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C A L I F O R N I A U N I V E R S I T Y O F P E N N S Y LV A N I A ’ S M A G A Z I N E
FA L L 2 0 2 0
THE WAY
WE WERE
President poised
to retire after a
semester unlike
any other
FROM THE
PRESIDENT
CAL U REVIEW
ON THE COVER
A masked Vulcan sets the tone for campus
as University President Geraldine Jones,
first gentleman Jeff Jones and canine
ambassador Ali stroll across the Quad.
CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA’S MAGAZINE
FALL 2020 • VOL. 49 • NO. 2
The Cal U Review is published twice a year by the Office of Communications
and Marketing and is distributed free. Third-class postage paid at California.
STORY: PAGE 4
CHANCE LLOR
Dr. Daniel Greenstein
It’s hard to say good-bye when our University, and our world, are
facing so many challenges. But I have always planned to depart
on my own schedule. This is the right time for me to begin a new
chapter in my life.
It has been an honor to lead this University as its seventh president.
It has been a privilege to work with so many wise and caring faculty,
staff and administrators. Above all, it has been a joy to watch
generations of students become successful alumni, empowered to
take on the world.
Over more than four decades, I have come to know our University’s
resilience, and I have seen firsthand the countless ways that Cal U
changes lives, including my own. I feel blessed to have played a role
in helping to move our University forward.
Every ending is also a new beginning, so I want to congratulate
Robert “Bob” Thorn, who has been appointed to serve as interim
president once I retire.
Bob joined Cal U in 1993 as director of
financial aid. Since 2010 he has been vice
president for Administration and Finance,
our University’s chief financial officer. He is
a creative and competent administrator who
shares my “students first” philosophy – and no
one knows Cal U’s campus and finances better.
I’m confident that our University will thrive under his leadership.
My last days on campus will be bittersweet. California has been my
school, my workplace and my home. But I am leaving with wonderful
memories – and the confidence that our University has the strength
to rise, boldly and proudly, to meet whatever the future may bring.
I thank you, dear friends, for the faith you have shown in me, and
for your countless contributions to our University. As I’ve said many
times, Cal U is a very special place, and it will always hold a special
place in my heart.
With warmest wishes,
Geraldine M. Jones
PRESIDENT, CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
BOARD OF GOVE RNORS
Cynthia D. Shapira, chair
David M. Maser, vice chair; chair, Student
Success Committee
Samuel H. Smith, vice chair; chair, Audit
and Compliance Committee
Rep. Tim Briggs
Audrey F. Bronson
Nicole Dunlop
Alex Fefolt
Tanya I. Garcia
Donald E. Houser Jr., chair, Governance
and Leadership Committee
Sen. Scott Martin
Marian D. Moskowitz, vice chair, Student
Success Committee
Thomas S. Muller, chair, University
Success Committee
Noe Ortega, Acting Secretary of Education
Rep. Brad Roae
Sen. Judith L. Schwank
Meg Snead, governor’s designee
Stephen L. Washington Jr.
Neil R. Weaver, vice chair, University
Success Committee
Governor Tom Wolf
Janet L. Yeomans
A LOOK INSIDE
CALIFORNIA UNIVE RSIT Y OF PE NNSYLVANIA
Geraldine M. Jones, University President
Dr. Daniel Engstrom, interim provost and vice president for Academic Affairs
Robert Thorn, vice president for Administration and Finance
Dr. Nancy Pinardi, vice president for Student Affairs
Christine Kindl, vice president for Communications and Marketing
Anthony Mauro, vice president for University Development and Alumni Relations
T. David Garcia, vice president for Enrollment Management
COUNCIL OF TRUSTE ES
James T. Davis ’73, chair
Larry Maggi ’79, vice chair
Anthony H. Amadio ’73
Roberta M. Betza
Stephen M. DeFrank ’92
Maria Dovshek, student trustee
Sandra Guthrie ’01
James W. Harris ’80
Sean T. Logue
Barry Niccolai ’93
Justin R. Nwokeji ’05
Dr. Daniel Greenstein, chancellor, ex-officio
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Ashely (Baird) Roth ’10, ’12, president
Shaina Hilsey ’18
Dante Morelli ’02, vice president
Bill Hughes ’02, ’12
Robert Crall ’10, ’12, secretary
Erica McDill ’92
Timothy Camus ’84 , treasurer
Marc Quann ’88
Jesse Hereda ’04, immediate past president
A. Tereasa Rerko ’79
Jeremy Babcock ’99, ’01
Frederick Smith III ’12
Alisha Carter ’06, ’11
Ronald Taylor ’12, ’14
LIFETIME HONOR ARY MEMBERS
Paul Gentile ’62
Michael Napolitano ’68
George Novak ’55
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Geraldine M. (Johns) Jones ’72, ’80
Ryan Barnhart ’08, ’09
John Lorenzi ’15
Anthony Mauro ’92, ’93
Craig Smith
SAI BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jeromy Mackey, undergraduate, president
Amanda Considine, undergraduate,
vice president
Maria Dovshek, undergraduate, treasurer
Jahneek Fant, undergraduate, secretary
Hope Cox ’00, ’01, alumna
Justin DiPerna ’16, alumnus
Marguerite Haldin ’09, ’11, alumna
Sydney Holley, undergraduate
Ryan Jerico ’09, alumnus
Taylor Codric, graduate student
Ashley Roth ’10, ’12, alumna
(Two student seats unfilled)
06
LAB REPORT
Innovation is key to
hands-on learning
08
SHE SAID ‘YES’
Retiring president built
a career by embracing
opportunities
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Geraldine M. Jones ’72, ’80, university president
Anthony Mauro ’92, ’93, vice president for Development and Alumni Relations
Ashley Roth ’10, ’12, president of Alumni Association
CAL U RE VIE W
E DITOR
Christine Kindl
WRITE RS
Wendy Mackall Matt Kifer
Laurie Bartolotta Bruce Wald ’85
PHOTOGR APHE RS
Zach Frailey
Jeff Helsel
Greg Sofranko
PORTRAITS IN
LEADERSHIP
Presidents Hall sketches
the University’s story
16
YOU'RE WELCOME
Space redesigned
with campus visit
experience in mind
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Dr. Nancy Pinardi ’94, ’96, ’98, vice president for Student Affairs/dean of students
Leigh Ann Lincoln, chief financial officer for SAI
Larry Sebek ’90, ’94, associate vice president for Student Affairs
Brenda DePaoli, executive staff assistant for Student Affairs/ SAI Board of Directors assistant
FOUNDATION FOR CALIFORNIA UNIVE RSIT Y
OF PE NNSYLVANIA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Darla R. Holley-Holmes
Bethany Hoag-Salmen’ 05, president
Jeffrey S. James ’07
John A. Lorenzi ’15, vice president
Zeb Jansante ’82, ’91
Alan K. James ’62, secretary
Jeffrey M. Kotula
Paul L. Kania ’87, treasurer
Robert E. Lippencott ’66
Courtney Cochran ’12, ’13
Christopher M. Lisle Jr. (student)
Jean Davis
Reginald A. Long ’81
Nate Dixon ’12
Brian P. Malloy ’11, ’14
Ryan Fisher ’15
Frederick A. Retsch ’62
Therese J. Gass ’77
Harry E. Serene ’65
Chelsea M. Gump ’17, ’18
10
18
INTERN SPOTLIGHT
Internships take new
forms as students
prepare for careers
23
HALL OF FAME
Cal U honors five
standout athletes
12
Campus Clips
20
Alumni News & Events
22
Alumni Awards
24
Alumni Spotlight
26
Sports Roundup
29
Milestones
FA L L 2 0 2 0
I
t’s time to turn the page. On January 29 I’ll retire from California
University, closing a career that spans 46 years.
3
FROM THE
PRESIDENT
CAL U REVIEW
ON THE COVER
A masked Vulcan sets the tone for campus
as University President Geraldine Jones,
first gentleman Jeff Jones and canine
ambassador Ali stroll across the Quad.
CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA’S MAGAZINE
FALL 2020 • VOL. 49 • NO. 2
The Cal U Review is published twice a year by the Office of Communications
and Marketing and is distributed free. Third-class postage paid at California.
STORY: PAGE 4
CHANCE LLOR
Dr. Daniel Greenstein
It’s hard to say good-bye when our University, and our world, are
facing so many challenges. But I have always planned to depart
on my own schedule. This is the right time for me to begin a new
chapter in my life.
It has been an honor to lead this University as its seventh president.
It has been a privilege to work with so many wise and caring faculty,
staff and administrators. Above all, it has been a joy to watch
generations of students become successful alumni, empowered to
take on the world.
Over more than four decades, I have come to know our University’s
resilience, and I have seen firsthand the countless ways that Cal U
changes lives, including my own. I feel blessed to have played a role
in helping to move our University forward.
Every ending is also a new beginning, so I want to congratulate
Robert “Bob” Thorn, who has been appointed to serve as interim
president once I retire.
Bob joined Cal U in 1993 as director of
financial aid. Since 2010 he has been vice
president for Administration and Finance,
our University’s chief financial officer. He is
a creative and competent administrator who
shares my “students first” philosophy – and no
one knows Cal U’s campus and finances better.
I’m confident that our University will thrive under his leadership.
My last days on campus will be bittersweet. California has been my
school, my workplace and my home. But I am leaving with wonderful
memories – and the confidence that our University has the strength
to rise, boldly and proudly, to meet whatever the future may bring.
I thank you, dear friends, for the faith you have shown in me, and
for your countless contributions to our University. As I’ve said many
times, Cal U is a very special place, and it will always hold a special
place in my heart.
With warmest wishes,
Geraldine M. Jones
PRESIDENT, CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
BOARD OF GOVE RNORS
Cynthia D. Shapira, chair
David M. Maser, vice chair; chair, Student
Success Committee
Samuel H. Smith, vice chair; chair, Audit
and Compliance Committee
Rep. Tim Briggs
Audrey F. Bronson
Nicole Dunlop
Alex Fefolt
Tanya I. Garcia
Donald E. Houser Jr., chair, Governance
and Leadership Committee
Sen. Scott Martin
Marian D. Moskowitz, vice chair, Student
Success Committee
Thomas S. Muller, chair, University
Success Committee
Noe Ortega, Acting Secretary of Education
Rep. Brad Roae
Sen. Judith L. Schwank
Meg Snead, governor’s designee
Stephen L. Washington Jr.
Neil R. Weaver, vice chair, University
Success Committee
Governor Tom Wolf
Janet L. Yeomans
A LOOK INSIDE
CALIFORNIA UNIVE RSIT Y OF PE NNSYLVANIA
Geraldine M. Jones, University President
Dr. Daniel Engstrom, interim provost and vice president for Academic Affairs
Robert Thorn, vice president for Administration and Finance
Dr. Nancy Pinardi, vice president for Student Affairs
Christine Kindl, vice president for Communications and Marketing
Anthony Mauro, vice president for University Development and Alumni Relations
T. David Garcia, vice president for Enrollment Management
COUNCIL OF TRUSTE ES
James T. Davis ’73, chair
Larry Maggi ’79, vice chair
Anthony H. Amadio ’73
Roberta M. Betza
Stephen M. DeFrank ’92
Maria Dovshek, student trustee
Sandra Guthrie ’01
James W. Harris ’80
Sean T. Logue
Barry Niccolai ’93
Justin R. Nwokeji ’05
Dr. Daniel Greenstein, chancellor, ex-officio
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Ashely (Baird) Roth ’10, ’12, president
Shaina Hilsey ’18
Dante Morelli ’02, vice president
Bill Hughes ’02, ’12
Robert Crall ’10, ’12, secretary
Erica McDill ’92
Timothy Camus ’84 , treasurer
Marc Quann ’88
Jesse Hereda ’04, immediate past president
A. Tereasa Rerko ’79
Jeremy Babcock ’99, ’01
Frederick Smith III ’12
Alisha Carter ’06, ’11
Ronald Taylor ’12, ’14
LIFETIME HONOR ARY MEMBERS
Paul Gentile ’62
Michael Napolitano ’68
George Novak ’55
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Geraldine M. (Johns) Jones ’72, ’80
Ryan Barnhart ’08, ’09
John Lorenzi ’15
Anthony Mauro ’92, ’93
Craig Smith
SAI BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jeromy Mackey, undergraduate, president
Amanda Considine, undergraduate,
vice president
Maria Dovshek, undergraduate, treasurer
Jahneek Fant, undergraduate, secretary
Hope Cox ’00, ’01, alumna
Justin DiPerna ’16, alumnus
Marguerite Haldin ’09, ’11, alumna
Sydney Holley, undergraduate
Ryan Jerico ’09, alumnus
Taylor Codric, graduate student
Ashley Roth ’10, ’12, alumna
(Two student seats unfilled)
06
LAB REPORT
Innovation is key to
hands-on learning
08
SHE SAID ‘YES’
Retiring president built
a career by embracing
opportunities
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Geraldine M. Jones ’72, ’80, university president
Anthony Mauro ’92, ’93, vice president for Development and Alumni Relations
Ashley Roth ’10, ’12, president of Alumni Association
CAL U RE VIE W
E DITOR
Christine Kindl
WRITE RS
Wendy Mackall Matt Kifer
Laurie Bartolotta Bruce Wald ’85
PHOTOGR APHE RS
Zach Frailey
Jeff Helsel
Greg Sofranko
PORTRAITS IN
LEADERSHIP
Presidents Hall sketches
the University’s story
16
YOU'RE WELCOME
Space redesigned
with campus visit
experience in mind
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Dr. Nancy Pinardi ’94, ’96, ’98, vice president for Student Affairs/dean of students
Leigh Ann Lincoln, chief financial officer for SAI
Larry Sebek ’90, ’94, associate vice president for Student Affairs
Brenda DePaoli, executive staff assistant for Student Affairs/ SAI Board of Directors assistant
FOUNDATION FOR CALIFORNIA UNIVE RSIT Y
OF PE NNSYLVANIA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Darla R. Holley-Holmes
Bethany Hoag-Salmen’ 05, president
Jeffrey S. James ’07
John A. Lorenzi ’15, vice president
Zeb Jansante ’82, ’91
Alan K. James ’62, secretary
Jeffrey M. Kotula
Paul L. Kania ’87, treasurer
Robert E. Lippencott ’66
Courtney Cochran ’12, ’13
Christopher M. Lisle Jr. (student)
Jean Davis
Reginald A. Long ’81
Nate Dixon ’12
Brian P. Malloy ’11, ’14
Ryan Fisher ’15
Frederick A. Retsch ’62
Therese J. Gass ’77
Harry E. Serene ’65
Chelsea M. Gump ’17, ’18
10
18
INTERN SPOTLIGHT
Internships take new
forms as students
prepare for careers
23
HALL OF FAME
Cal U honors five
standout athletes
12
Campus Clips
20
Alumni News & Events
22
Alumni Awards
24
Alumni Spotlight
26
Sports Roundup
29
Milestones
FA L L 2 0 2 0
I
t’s time to turn the page. On January 29 I’ll retire from California
University, closing a career that spans 46 years.
3
at a time. When fall classes began, the
University’s overall enrollment had exceeded
last fall’s total.
THE WAY
WE WERE
Pandemic shaped an unprecedented fall semester
C
al U’s campus was quiet. On a sunny
fall morning, a handful of employees
trickled in and out of Dixon Hall.
A pair of students climbed the steps to
Manderino Library. A family eased their car
along Third Street, cellphone propped on the
dashboard, and stopped for a look at the
Herron fitness center.
Everyone – even the bronze Vulcan statue
on the Quad and the bust of philanthropist
Robert Eberly in front of the library – wore
a mask.
The coronavirus changed everything at Cal U,
from classes to campus visits and University
operations. To mitigate risk for students and
employees, the University closed its residence
halls, suspended athletics competition and
shifted to remote operations in March, when
COVID-19 emerged as a significant threat to
public health.
With the safety of the campus community
uppermost in their minds, University
leaders spent countless hours planning a
“responsible reopening” for the fall semester,
only to see case numbers surge throughout
Pennsylvania and across the country in
early summer.
In late July they made the decision to
continue remote operations throughout the
fall semester.
University President Geraldine Jones said the
decision provided “a bit of certainty in these
very uncertain times.”
“The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our
lives – but it cannot stop you from earning
your degree,” she told students. “By staying
apart this fall semester, we are protecting
ourselves and those we care about most,
including our friends, classmates and
mentors on campus.”
Yet despite the stillness on campus,
plenty was going on.
BUILDING VIRTUAL
CONNECTIONS
Throughout the spring and summer, staff in
the Enrollment Management division had
shifted their approach. With on-campus
activities suspended, admissions counselors
began meeting with prospective students
and families on Zoom and Facebook Live.
Faculty members talked with students
during virtual Open House events. Staff
answered questions via texts and chats, and
used their cellphones to lead families on
drive-through campus tours.
Media reports predicted dramatic enrollment
declines at colleges nationwide, but Cal U
continued making connections, one student
“It was truly a team effort,” says T. David
Garcia, vice president for Enrollment
Management.
“So many people, all across campus,
contributed to bringing in a freshman
class with the highest high school gradepoint average in the history of Cal U and
increasing its adult-learner enrollment
through online graduate programs.”
This fall Cal U delivered most classes
through real-time remote learning, where
students meet virtually with their professor
and classmates on a regular schedule, just
as they would on campus. Most learners
logged in from home, but computer
workstations made the library a go-to
spot for those lacking internet access.
As the semester began, hundreds of
faculty completed advanced instruction
in online teaching techniques and the
nuances of D2L/Brightspace, Zoom
and other digital platforms.
Interim Provost Dr. Daniel Engstrom
describes remote learning as “more direct
and engaging” than the type of online
instruction that can be completed on
a student’s own schedule.
“Asynchronous courses are ideal for adult
learners who need to plan their coursework
around a job or family schedule,” he explains.
“But for undergraduates, in particular, remote
learning provides more structure and a
stronger connection with the professor.
“We surveyed students after the spring
semester, when we had to make the sudden
shift to virtual classes. This was the delivery
method that students told us they preferred.”
Hands-on learning continued, too. Simulation
software helped some nursing, anatomy
and engineering technology students build
new skills. Lab kits let science majors
practice research techniques. And creativity
blossomed as students collaborated on
virtual performances and presentations.
Outside of class, Student Affairs staff
made sure there were plenty of opportunities
for students to find support – and to have
some fun. Beginning with Welcome Weekend,
they orchestrated a 30-day series of events
that ran the gamut from trivia contests and
online gaming to Adulting 101, a series
of workshops on topics such as time
management, self-care and personal finances.
“A year ago, who would have envisioned
online tutoring, or a virtual career fair,
or curbside delivery for library books?”
President Jones asked at the fall facultystaff convocation – the first in the
University’s history to be held on Zoom.
UNLOCKING THE FUTURE
Fall classes ended in early December.
Spring 2021 will be another “semester
unlike any other.”
The pandemic’s trajectory is still evolving.
Cal U continues to mitigate risk, even as
leaders cautiously plan for the future.
Concerns about health and safety still
drive decision-making. Innovation and
adaptability remain the order of the day.
When it’s time for students to return, Cal U’s
campus will be ready. Buildings have been
sanitized. Cameras are poised to beam
on-campus lessons to students who prefer
to log in from afar. Desks sit 6 feet apart,
and branded masks are waiting.
Near a hand sanitizer dispenser, a cartoon
image of mascot Blaze peeks from behind a
face covering, reminding everyone to protect
themselves and those around them.
“These are turbulent times,” says President
Jones. “We have learned so much this fall,
and we will put that experience to use. I have
no doubt that in the end, we will emerge
stronger, smarter and more resilient.”
By Christine Kindl
VP for Communications and Marketing
“Within the parameters imposed by COVID19, the essential aspects of college life
continue. Our students are learning what it
means to be resilient, and they are seeing
how professionals in their chosen disciplines
can adjust to changing circumstances.”
WELCOME BACK
As an unprecedented fall semester
began, faculty welcomed and
encouraged students. See a playlist
of their inspirational #CalUTogether
Faculty Welcome messages at
youtube.com/c/CaluEdu/playlists.
4
ourselves and those we care about most, including
our friends, classmates and mentors on campus.”
GER ALDINE JONES, UNIVERSIT Y PRESIDENT
FA L L 2 0 2 0
CAL U REVIEW
By staying apart this fall semester, we are protecting
5
at a time. When fall classes began, the
University’s overall enrollment had exceeded
last fall’s total.
THE WAY
WE WERE
Pandemic shaped an unprecedented fall semester
C
al U’s campus was quiet. On a sunny
fall morning, a handful of employees
trickled in and out of Dixon Hall.
A pair of students climbed the steps to
Manderino Library. A family eased their car
along Third Street, cellphone propped on the
dashboard, and stopped for a look at the
Herron fitness center.
Everyone – even the bronze Vulcan statue
on the Quad and the bust of philanthropist
Robert Eberly in front of the library – wore
a mask.
The coronavirus changed everything at Cal U,
from classes to campus visits and University
operations. To mitigate risk for students and
employees, the University closed its residence
halls, suspended athletics competition and
shifted to remote operations in March, when
COVID-19 emerged as a significant threat to
public health.
With the safety of the campus community
uppermost in their minds, University
leaders spent countless hours planning a
“responsible reopening” for the fall semester,
only to see case numbers surge throughout
Pennsylvania and across the country in
early summer.
In late July they made the decision to
continue remote operations throughout the
fall semester.
University President Geraldine Jones said the
decision provided “a bit of certainty in these
very uncertain times.”
“The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our
lives – but it cannot stop you from earning
your degree,” she told students. “By staying
apart this fall semester, we are protecting
ourselves and those we care about most,
including our friends, classmates and
mentors on campus.”
Yet despite the stillness on campus,
plenty was going on.
BUILDING VIRTUAL
CONNECTIONS
Throughout the spring and summer, staff in
the Enrollment Management division had
shifted their approach. With on-campus
activities suspended, admissions counselors
began meeting with prospective students
and families on Zoom and Facebook Live.
Faculty members talked with students
during virtual Open House events. Staff
answered questions via texts and chats, and
used their cellphones to lead families on
drive-through campus tours.
Media reports predicted dramatic enrollment
declines at colleges nationwide, but Cal U
continued making connections, one student
“It was truly a team effort,” says T. David
Garcia, vice president for Enrollment
Management.
“So many people, all across campus,
contributed to bringing in a freshman
class with the highest high school gradepoint average in the history of Cal U and
increasing its adult-learner enrollment
through online graduate programs.”
This fall Cal U delivered most classes
through real-time remote learning, where
students meet virtually with their professor
and classmates on a regular schedule, just
as they would on campus. Most learners
logged in from home, but computer
workstations made the library a go-to
spot for those lacking internet access.
As the semester began, hundreds of
faculty completed advanced instruction
in online teaching techniques and the
nuances of D2L/Brightspace, Zoom
and other digital platforms.
Interim Provost Dr. Daniel Engstrom
describes remote learning as “more direct
and engaging” than the type of online
instruction that can be completed on
a student’s own schedule.
“Asynchronous courses are ideal for adult
learners who need to plan their coursework
around a job or family schedule,” he explains.
“But for undergraduates, in particular, remote
learning provides more structure and a
stronger connection with the professor.
“We surveyed students after the spring
semester, when we had to make the sudden
shift to virtual classes. This was the delivery
method that students told us they preferred.”
Hands-on learning continued, too. Simulation
software helped some nursing, anatomy
and engineering technology students build
new skills. Lab kits let science majors
practice research techniques. And creativity
blossomed as students collaborated on
virtual performances and presentations.
Outside of class, Student Affairs staff
made sure there were plenty of opportunities
for students to find support – and to have
some fun. Beginning with Welcome Weekend,
they orchestrated a 30-day series of events
that ran the gamut from trivia contests and
online gaming to Adulting 101, a series
of workshops on topics such as time
management, self-care and personal finances.
“A year ago, who would have envisioned
online tutoring, or a virtual career fair,
or curbside delivery for library books?”
President Jones asked at the fall facultystaff convocation – the first in the
University’s history to be held on Zoom.
UNLOCKING THE FUTURE
Fall classes ended in early December.
Spring 2021 will be another “semester
unlike any other.”
The pandemic’s trajectory is still evolving.
Cal U continues to mitigate risk, even as
leaders cautiously plan for the future.
Concerns about health and safety still
drive decision-making. Innovation and
adaptability remain the order of the day.
When it’s time for students to return, Cal U’s
campus will be ready. Buildings have been
sanitized. Cameras are poised to beam
on-campus lessons to students who prefer
to log in from afar. Desks sit 6 feet apart,
and branded masks are waiting.
Near a hand sanitizer dispenser, a cartoon
image of mascot Blaze peeks from behind a
face covering, reminding everyone to protect
themselves and those around them.
“These are turbulent times,” says President
Jones. “We have learned so much this fall,
and we will put that experience to use. I have
no doubt that in the end, we will emerge
stronger, smarter and more resilient.”
By Christine Kindl
VP for Communications and Marketing
“Within the parameters imposed by COVID19, the essential aspects of college life
continue. Our students are learning what it
means to be resilient, and they are seeing
how professionals in their chosen disciplines
can adjust to changing circumstances.”
WELCOME BACK
As an unprecedented fall semester
began, faculty welcomed and
encouraged students. See a playlist
of their inspirational #CalUTogether
Faculty Welcome messages at
youtube.com/c/CaluEdu/playlists.
4
ourselves and those we care about most, including
our friends, classmates and mentors on campus.”
GER ALDINE JONES, UNIVERSIT Y PRESIDENT
FA L L 2 0 2 0
CAL U REVIEW
By staying apart this fall semester, we are protecting
5
IN THE FIELD
Students in certain biology, microbiology, cell
biology and chemistry courses were mailed
kits with tools and materials, so they didn’t
have to worry about gathering supplies.
Outdoor or socially distanced “boot camp”
experiences helped students in specialized
majors meet program requirements. For
example, veterinary technology students
worked with large animals at a designated
farm site.
“I love to actually get to experience what
it’s like to work with an animal instead of
reading a textbook,” student Coco Pahanish
says. “I’m thankful there was a way to make
it work this semester. It’s my favorite.”
Other students completed their lab work
at home.
For his Sedimentation and Stratigraphy
course, Dr. Kyle Fredrick ordered
sedimentary rock kits and microscopes for
students, and he sent them samples of sand
for analysis and reporting.
Students in Dr. Louise Nicholson’s genetics
course gained hands-on experience in DNA
extraction, genetic crosses and artificial
selection, DNA fingerprinting and more, all
without leaving home.
INNOVATION IS KEY TO HANDS-ON LEARNING
L
CAL U REVIEW
ab experiments,” says Cal U
chemistry professor Dr. Kimberly
Woznack, “are some of the most
fun parts of science courses.”
6
and best practices in online teaching.
A proactive approach made sure they
remained both fun and educational, even while
Cal U’s labs and classrooms were closed in
response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
At least one faculty member from each
department that would include a science
lab received advanced training in how
to design hands-on experiments for an
online environment. That group then
served as teacher-mentors for their
Cal U colleagues.
“We’ve been very proactive in identifying
the educational resources both faculty
and students needed this fall,” says
Dr. Brenda Fredette, dean of the Eberly
College of Science and Technology.
Professors learned “how to build the lab
experience in a meaningful way, so that
students are thinking about what they’re
doing and engaging with the concepts,”
Fredette says.
That included professional development
for faculty – already experts in their fields –
that focused on instructional design
“Follow-up activities give students the
opportunity to use what they’ve learned
to demonstrate their knowledge.”
In Human Anatomy, real-time interactions
with professors Dr. Brian Paulson and
Dr. Jesse Eiben guided students through the
structure of human body systems. Simulation
software allowed students to perform
“dissections” in a virtual environment.
We’ve been very proactive in identifying
the educational resources both faculty
and students needed this fall.”
DR . BRENDA FREDE T TE
DE A N OF T HE EBERLY C OL L E GE OF SCIENCE A ND T E CHNOL OG Y
INDUSTRY SOFTWARE
In the mechatronics engineering technology
program, faculty converted hands-on
sessions to simulations using industryrecognized software.
“Festo is an industrial equipment
manufacturer and also a vendor for the
lab equipment we have at Cal U,” explains
program coordinator Dr. Jennifer Wilburn.
“The simulation packages are made to
supplement that hardware and teach the
same principles.”
Mechatronics students also used
software from Tooling U-SME, which
produces certifications and content for
the manufacturing industry.
In chemistry, Dr. Matthew Price created
videos of experiments for his junior-level
organic chemistry course. Students used
an electronic “notebook” to organize
experiment reports, and small groups met
in Zoom breakout rooms to review concepts
and make calculations.
Woznack’s first-year chemistry students
learned about the relationship between
pressure and volume of a gas sample
using a simulation that let them manipulate
variables such as temperature and
sample size.
Still other professors reached out to
professional organizations to develop
resources.
Dr. Carol Bocetti, a wildlife biologist in
the Department of Biology, Geology and
Environmental Sciences, began collaborating
with The Wildlife Society’s College and
University Wildlife Education Working Group
on best practices for remote learning.
She also worked with colleagues at the
U.S. Forest Service, the Pennsylvania Game
Commission and two wildlife refuges to create
videos of hands-on techniques used to study
pine martens, box turtles and black bears.
The positive side to remote learning, Bocetti
says, is that students can see “a wider variety
of organisms and habitats” as they watch a
number of professional field biologists put
field techniques into practice.
Wilburn agreed that technology can open
doors to new learning opportunities.
“We have a finite amount of equipment in
our lab,” she says, “but if you’re working on a
simulation, everyone can work independently
and spend more time learning some of the
processes. We can use Zoom breakout rooms
for the teamwork experience that industry
looks for.”
By Wendy Mackall, communications director at Cal U
FA L L 2 0 2 0
Under the watchful eyes of program director
and veterinarian Dr. Nancy Pugh and vet
tech coordinator Kelly Gustine, students
spent several days at the Washington
County location. They practiced performing
essential skills like physical examinations,
blood draws and injections.
7
IN THE FIELD
Students in certain biology, microbiology, cell
biology and chemistry courses were mailed
kits with tools and materials, so they didn’t
have to worry about gathering supplies.
Outdoor or socially distanced “boot camp”
experiences helped students in specialized
majors meet program requirements. For
example, veterinary technology students
worked with large animals at a designated
farm site.
“I love to actually get to experience what
it’s like to work with an animal instead of
reading a textbook,” student Coco Pahanish
says. “I’m thankful there was a way to make
it work this semester. It’s my favorite.”
Other students completed their lab work
at home.
For his Sedimentation and Stratigraphy
course, Dr. Kyle Fredrick ordered
sedimentary rock kits and microscopes for
students, and he sent them samples of sand
for analysis and reporting.
Students in Dr. Louise Nicholson’s genetics
course gained hands-on experience in DNA
extraction, genetic crosses and artificial
selection, DNA fingerprinting and more, all
without leaving home.
INNOVATION IS KEY TO HANDS-ON LEARNING
L
CAL U REVIEW
ab experiments,” says Cal U
chemistry professor Dr. Kimberly
Woznack, “are some of the most
fun parts of science courses.”
6
and best practices in online teaching.
A proactive approach made sure they
remained both fun and educational, even while
Cal U’s labs and classrooms were closed in
response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
At least one faculty member from each
department that would include a science
lab received advanced training in how
to design hands-on experiments for an
online environment. That group then
served as teacher-mentors for their
Cal U colleagues.
“We’ve been very proactive in identifying
the educational resources both faculty
and students needed this fall,” says
Dr. Brenda Fredette, dean of the Eberly
College of Science and Technology.
Professors learned “how to build the lab
experience in a meaningful way, so that
students are thinking about what they’re
doing and engaging with the concepts,”
Fredette says.
That included professional development
for faculty – already experts in their fields –
that focused on instructional design
“Follow-up activities give students the
opportunity to use what they’ve learned
to demonstrate their knowledge.”
In Human Anatomy, real-time interactions
with professors Dr. Brian Paulson and
Dr. Jesse Eiben guided students through the
structure of human body systems. Simulation
software allowed students to perform
“dissections” in a virtual environment.
We’ve been very proactive in identifying
the educational resources both faculty
and students needed this fall.”
DR . BRENDA FREDE T TE
DE A N OF T HE EBERLY C OL L E GE OF SCIENCE A ND T E CHNOL OG Y
INDUSTRY SOFTWARE
In the mechatronics engineering technology
program, faculty converted hands-on
sessions to simulations using industryrecognized software.
“Festo is an industrial equipment
manufacturer and also a vendor for the
lab equipment we have at Cal U,” explains
program coordinator Dr. Jennifer Wilburn.
“The simulation packages are made to
supplement that hardware and teach the
same principles.”
Mechatronics students also used
software from Tooling U-SME, which
produces certifications and content for
the manufacturing industry.
In chemistry, Dr. Matthew Price created
videos of experiments for his junior-level
organic chemistry course. Students used
an electronic “notebook” to organize
experiment reports, and small groups met
in Zoom breakout rooms to review concepts
and make calculations.
Woznack’s first-year chemistry students
learned about the relationship between
pressure and volume of a gas sample
using a simulation that let them manipulate
variables such as temperature and
sample size.
Still other professors reached out to
professional organizations to develop
resources.
Dr. Carol Bocetti, a wildlife biologist in
the Department of Biology, Geology and
Environmental Sciences, began collaborating
with The Wildlife Society’s College and
University Wildlife Education Working Group
on best practices for remote learning.
She also worked with colleagues at the
U.S. Forest Service, the Pennsylvania Game
Commission and two wildlife refuges to create
videos of hands-on techniques used to study
pine martens, box turtles and black bears.
The positive side to remote learning, Bocetti
says, is that students can see “a wider variety
of organisms and habitats” as they watch a
number of professional field biologists put
field techniques into practice.
Wilburn agreed that technology can open
doors to new learning opportunities.
“We have a finite amount of equipment in
our lab,” she says, “but if you’re working on a
simulation, everyone can work independently
and spend more time learning some of the
processes. We can use Zoom breakout rooms
for the teamwork experience that industry
looks for.”
By Wendy Mackall, communications director at Cal U
FA L L 2 0 2 0
Under the watchful eyes of program director
and veterinarian Dr. Nancy Pugh and vet
tech coordinator Kelly Gustine, students
spent several days at the Washington
County location. They practiced performing
essential skills like physical examinations,
blood draws and injections.
7
Retiring president built a career
by embracing opportunities
U
niversity President Geraldine Jones
retires from Cal U in January,
ending a career that took her from
the classroom to the President’s Office.
As Miss California, she was invited to “any
and all” events, and she immersed herself in
college life. The campus quickly became her
second home.
That was a not the future she envisioned
while commuting from Brownsville to “Cal
State” as a first-generation college student.
It was not the goal she aspired to when she
joined California’s faculty.
She especially loved student teaching –
except, perhaps, for an awkward moment
when her supervising teacher, the formidable
Merrell Holman ’42, arrived without warning
and found a nervous Jones tugging down
a hemline that barely met the dress code.
But Jones was determined to say “yes”
to every opportunity. And time after time,
that decision made all the difference.
“This University changes lives,” she says.
“It certainly changed mine.”
CAL U REVIEW
My goal was always to
leave the University
a little better than
I found it.”
8
Teaching
and Mentoring
An early turning point came in her sophomore
year, when California’s dean of women,
Maetroy Walker, invited Jones to appear in
the Miss California State College pageant.
Although an African American student had
never won the competition, Jones signed up.
She sang the Burt Bacharach hit “What the
World Needs Now Is Love” in the talent
portion of the show. She walked away
with the campus title and won the talent
competition at the state pageant in Harrisburg.
“That was life-changing for me,” Jones recalls.
“I’ll never forget that dress!” Jones says
with a laugh.
Shortly before graduation, Jones stopped
at the Albert Gallatin School District office to
pick up a job application. The superintendent
asked her to interview on the spot. She said
yes, and landed her first full-time position.
“I loved teaching school,” she recalls.
“I thought I’d retire from that job.”
But two years later, opportunity knocked
again. She was offered a grant-funded
position at Cal U.
“I was about to get married. I had a full-time
teaching job, and this was a temporary
position in student support services. I talked
to my father, and he said, ‘You’re young. Now
is the time to go for the opportunity.’ I thought
about it, and I said yes.”
“I guess I looked young,” she says. “There
were only a handful of women on the faculty
and an even smaller handful of minority
faculty. … For some people, it was new and
different to see me in that role.”
The student support program thrived, and
Jones enjoyed counseling students who, like
her, were the first in their families to attend
college. Four years later she was asked to
direct California’s Upward Bound program,
which prepares high school students for
college success.
Again, she said yes. She held that position for
20 years and obtained $3.9 million in federal
grants. For 11 of those years she led the
Academic Development Services Department.
As department chair, Jones worked closely
with Dr. Stephen A. Pavlak ’63, dean of the
College of Education and Human Services.
When Pavlak’s work took him to the State
System office in Harrisburg, she agreed to
shift from faculty to administration.
More than once Jones found aid for needy
students on the verge of dropping out.
“I remember one young man who walked
across the stage at graduation and gave me a
big hug,” she says. An extra $200 had made it
possible for him to finish his degree.
“I have been truly, truly blessed. And I’ve got
to give it back.”
Leading
through change
After stints in interim roles, Jones was
appointed dean of the College. Some
difficult conversations ensued.
Eight years into her role as dean, Jones was
called to the President’s Office. The provost’s
seat was vacant, and she thought she’d be
asked to serve on the search committee.
Instead, Dr. Angelo Armenti Jr. tapped her to
become Cal U’s chief academic officer.
“Some of those faculty had been my
professors when I was a student. Some
had been my colleagues. And now here
I was in this leadership role.”
Once more she said yes – never dreaming
that less than four years later, she would be
positioned to step in as acting president.
Jones hired 16 faculty members during
her time as dean, and she made sure that
women and minority candidates were
considered. She mentored new instructors,
including Frederick Douglass Scholars, and
she watched with delight as more women
became department chairs.
The transition was unexpected.
Today, “I love seeing two female deans
leading our undergraduate Colleges,” she
says. “We still need improvement, but there is
a richer diversity.”
“I remember Gerri being surprised – surprised
but ready. For her, it was like putting on
another pair of shoes,” says Jeff Jones,
who took on the role of “first gentleman.”
“The University, and that sense of
responsibility and service, had always
been a part of our lives.”
In her first public statement as acting
president, Jones vowed to be more
than a caretaker. She would move the
University forward.
Four years later, at her formal inauguration,
she pledged “not only a commitment to
excellence, but also a willingness to make
thoughtful and purposeful change.”
And so she did, adding doctoral degrees and
other academic programs, renovating Coover
Hall and the president’s residence, expanding
shared governance, and streamlining the
University’s academic structure.
Through a host of challenges, including an
unprecedented pandemic and plans for
campus integrations, Jones never lost sight of
her mission – to sustain her alma mater and
help students build a brighter future at Cal U.
In retirement, Jones will have more time
for family, including three beloved
grandchildren. She and Jeff will leave
their South Hall apartment for a new
home in Washington County.
“My goal was always to leave the University
a little better than I found it,” she says.
“I wanted people to feel they’d made
the right decision to work or go to school
here. Students, faculty, staff, alumni – I want
everyone to feel that this is their place, too.”
career highlights
1968-72
1974-78
1978-98
1987-98
1998-08
Cal State
undergrad
Counselor,
Special
Programs
Department
Director,
Upward
Bound
Chair,
Academic
Development
Services
Interim Dean/
Dean, College
of Education &
Human Services
See the rest of
University President
Geraldine Jones's
journey online at
calu.edu/review
FA L L 2 0 2 0
Yes
She
said
On her first day of work on campus, a man
followed her into the parking lot outside Old
Main. Only faculty could use the space, he
announced. He seemed surprised to learn
that Jones was part of the teaching staff.
9
Retiring president built a career
by embracing opportunities
U
niversity President Geraldine Jones
retires from Cal U in January,
ending a career that took her from
the classroom to the President’s Office.
As Miss California, she was invited to “any
and all” events, and she immersed herself in
college life. The campus quickly became her
second home.
That was a not the future she envisioned
while commuting from Brownsville to “Cal
State” as a first-generation college student.
It was not the goal she aspired to when she
joined California’s faculty.
She especially loved student teaching –
except, perhaps, for an awkward moment
when her supervising teacher, the formidable
Merrell Holman ’42, arrived without warning
and found a nervous Jones tugging down
a hemline that barely met the dress code.
But Jones was determined to say “yes”
to every opportunity. And time after time,
that decision made all the difference.
“This University changes lives,” she says.
“It certainly changed mine.”
CAL U REVIEW
My goal was always to
leave the University
a little better than
I found it.”
8
Teaching
and Mentoring
An early turning point came in her sophomore
year, when California’s dean of women,
Maetroy Walker, invited Jones to appear in
the Miss California State College pageant.
Although an African American student had
never won the competition, Jones signed up.
She sang the Burt Bacharach hit “What the
World Needs Now Is Love” in the talent
portion of the show. She walked away
with the campus title and won the talent
competition at the state pageant in Harrisburg.
“That was life-changing for me,” Jones recalls.
“I’ll never forget that dress!” Jones says
with a laugh.
Shortly before graduation, Jones stopped
at the Albert Gallatin School District office to
pick up a job application. The superintendent
asked her to interview on the spot. She said
yes, and landed her first full-time position.
“I loved teaching school,” she recalls.
“I thought I’d retire from that job.”
But two years later, opportunity knocked
again. She was offered a grant-funded
position at Cal U.
“I was about to get married. I had a full-time
teaching job, and this was a temporary
position in student support services. I talked
to my father, and he said, ‘You’re young. Now
is the time to go for the opportunity.’ I thought
about it, and I said yes.”
“I guess I looked young,” she says. “There
were only a handful of women on the faculty
and an even smaller handful of minority
faculty. … For some people, it was new and
different to see me in that role.”
The student support program thrived, and
Jones enjoyed counseling students who, like
her, were the first in their families to attend
college. Four years later she was asked to
direct California’s Upward Bound program,
which prepares high school students for
college success.
Again, she said yes. She held that position for
20 years and obtained $3.9 million in federal
grants. For 11 of those years she led the
Academic Development Services Department.
As department chair, Jones worked closely
with Dr. Stephen A. Pavlak ’63, dean of the
College of Education and Human Services.
When Pavlak’s work took him to the State
System office in Harrisburg, she agreed to
shift from faculty to administration.
More than once Jones found aid for needy
students on the verge of dropping out.
“I remember one young man who walked
across the stage at graduation and gave me a
big hug,” she says. An extra $200 had made it
possible for him to finish his degree.
“I have been truly, truly blessed. And I’ve got
to give it back.”
Leading
through change
After stints in interim roles, Jones was
appointed dean of the College. Some
difficult conversations ensued.
Eight years into her role as dean, Jones was
called to the President’s Office. The provost’s
seat was vacant, and she thought she’d be
asked to serve on the search committee.
Instead, Dr. Angelo Armenti Jr. tapped her to
become Cal U’s chief academic officer.
“Some of those faculty had been my
professors when I was a student. Some
had been my colleagues. And now here
I was in this leadership role.”
Once more she said yes – never dreaming
that less than four years later, she would be
positioned to step in as acting president.
Jones hired 16 faculty members during
her time as dean, and she made sure that
women and minority candidates were
considered. She mentored new instructors,
including Frederick Douglass Scholars, and
she watched with delight as more women
became department chairs.
The transition was unexpected.
Today, “I love seeing two female deans
leading our undergraduate Colleges,” she
says. “We still need improvement, but there is
a richer diversity.”
“I remember Gerri being surprised – surprised
but ready. For her, it was like putting on
another pair of shoes,” says Jeff Jones,
who took on the role of “first gentleman.”
“The University, and that sense of
responsibility and service, had always
been a part of our lives.”
In her first public statement as acting
president, Jones vowed to be more
than a caretaker. She would move the
University forward.
Four years later, at her formal inauguration,
she pledged “not only a commitment to
excellence, but also a willingness to make
thoughtful and purposeful change.”
And so she did, adding doctoral degrees and
other academic programs, renovating Coover
Hall and the president’s residence, expanding
shared governance, and streamlining the
University’s academic structure.
Through a host of challenges, including an
unprecedented pandemic and plans for
campus integrations, Jones never lost sight of
her mission – to sustain her alma mater and
help students build a brighter future at Cal U.
In retirement, Jones will have more time
for family, including three beloved
grandchildren. She and Jeff will leave
their South Hall apartment for a new
home in Washington County.
“My goal was always to leave the University
a little better than I found it,” she says.
“I wanted people to feel they’d made
the right decision to work or go to school
here. Students, faculty, staff, alumni – I want
everyone to feel that this is their place, too.”
career highlights
1968-72
1974-78
1978-98
1987-98
1998-08
Cal State
undergrad
Counselor,
Special
Programs
Department
Director,
Upward
Bound
Chair,
Academic
Development
Services
Interim Dean/
Dean, College
of Education &
Human Services
See the rest of
University President
Geraldine Jones's
journey online at
calu.edu/review
FA L L 2 0 2 0
Yes
She
said
On her first day of work on campus, a man
followed her into the parking lot outside Old
Main. Only faculty could use the space, he
announced. He seemed surprised to learn
that Jones was part of the teaching staff.
9
P R E S I D E N TS H A L L S K E TC H E S U N I V E R S I T Y STO RY
O
ld Main’s Grand Hall has an
updated look, a new name and
a fresh purpose.
CAL U REVIEW
The spacious entrance to the University
President’s office suite has been transformed
into a portrait gallery dedicated to California’s
former leaders.
10
“Before we moved to remote operations,
visitors and students sometimes would stop
by to see the portraits,” she says. “They tell a
story about our school’s history and heritage.
With an updated setting, I thought we could
tell that story even better.”
Renamed “Presidents Hall,” it showcases
paintings of the principals who led SouthWestern Normal College – the forerunner of
Cal U – and the presidents of California State
Teachers College, California State College
and California University of Pennsylvania.
So during the spring and summer months,
painters from the Facilities Management
Department removed outdated wallpaper
and repainted the room’s walls and stately
columns. Carpenters took down the painted
moldings that surrounded the hall’s unique
stained-glass windows and replaced them
with custom-crafted wood trim.
Most of the paintings previously were
displayed in the Grand Hall and the
adjoining Dome Room, a reception area
outside the president’s conference room
and private office.
The four tall windows, created by former
Cal U art professor Leslie Parkinson,
depict Pennsylvania wildflowers. Like the
portraits, they shine more brightly in the
refreshed setting.
President Geraldine Jones passes the
images of her predecessors on her way to
work each day.
“I am very proud of the work our shops are
capable of performing,” says Mike Kanalis,
director of Facilities Management.
LATEST ADDITIONS
A recent addition to the art collection is a
portrait of Dr. Angelo Armenti Jr., who was
University president from 1992-2012.
First gentleman Jeff Jones, an
accomplished photographer and artist,
created the digital artwork based on a
2004 photograph by Greg Sofranko,
Cal U’s creative services director.
The hall’s older paintings, in the moody
“Rembrandt style,” provide little context,
Jeff Jones explains. But more recent
portraits, including Armenti’s, place the
subjects in an environment that helps to
tell their story.
He will use that contemporary style to
create a digital portrait of his spouse
before she retires.
“At first we considered hanging only the
presidents’ portraits in this space,” says
President Jones, the seventh person in
California’s history to hold that title.
It’s not about me. It’s about the history
of this wonderful University. I’m proud
to be a part of that history.”
GER ALDINE JONES, UNIVERSIT Y PRESIDENT
“But those normal school administrators
made important decisions that shaped the
history of this institution. They set California
on a path that brings us to where we are
today. They belong here too.
“And with the addition of President Armenti’s
portrait, as well as my own, we’ve brought
the collection up to date.”
Presidents Hall is one of the oldest rooms
on campus, in use since Old Main was
completed in 1871. The high-ceilinged hall
has served as the school’s library, a lecture
hall and, most recently, a place for meetings,
banquets and receptions.
President Jones remembers taking an
audio-visual course in the room during her
undergraduate years, when the space was
utilized for classrooms and offices. More
recently, she’s hosted holiday receptions for
Cal U employees and quarterly breakfasts
for community leaders in the hall.
She is pleased to know that her portrait
has been added to the collection. As the
first woman and the first person of color to
hold Cal U’s top leadership post, her image
speaks volumes about how the institution
has changed over the decades.
“It’s not about me,” President Jones
insists. “It’s about the history of this
wonderful University. I’m proud to be a
part of that history.”
By Christine Kindl
VP for Communications and Marketing
VISIT THE GALLERY
See a video highlighting the
portraits in Presidents Hall
at calu.edu/review
FA L L 2 0 2 0
PORTRAITS
IN LEADERSHIP
“A project that brings life back to a portion
of a historical room is amazing to witness.
We were able to maintain the historical look
and aesthetics while still transforming the
room. This finished project is a testament
to the type of work that members of the
Facilities Management Department do on
a daily basis.”
11
P R E S I D E N TS H A L L S K E TC H E S U N I V E R S I T Y STO RY
O
ld Main’s Grand Hall has an
updated look, a new name and
a fresh purpose.
CAL U REVIEW
The spacious entrance to the University
President’s office suite has been transformed
into a portrait gallery dedicated to California’s
former leaders.
10
“Before we moved to remote operations,
visitors and students sometimes would stop
by to see the portraits,” she says. “They tell a
story about our school’s history and heritage.
With an updated setting, I thought we could
tell that story even better.”
Renamed “Presidents Hall,” it showcases
paintings of the principals who led SouthWestern Normal College – the forerunner of
Cal U – and the presidents of California State
Teachers College, California State College
and California University of Pennsylvania.
So during the spring and summer months,
painters from the Facilities Management
Department removed outdated wallpaper
and repainted the room’s walls and stately
columns. Carpenters took down the painted
moldings that surrounded the hall’s unique
stained-glass windows and replaced them
with custom-crafted wood trim.
Most of the paintings previously were
displayed in the Grand Hall and the
adjoining Dome Room, a reception area
outside the president’s conference room
and private office.
The four tall windows, created by former
Cal U art professor Leslie Parkinson,
depict Pennsylvania wildflowers. Like the
portraits, they shine more brightly in the
refreshed setting.
President Geraldine Jones passes the
images of her predecessors on her way to
work each day.
“I am very proud of the work our shops are
capable of performing,” says Mike Kanalis,
director of Facilities Management.
LATEST ADDITIONS
A recent addition to the art collection is a
portrait of Dr. Angelo Armenti Jr., who was
University president from 1992-2012.
First gentleman Jeff Jones, an
accomplished photographer and artist,
created the digital artwork based on a
2004 photograph by Greg Sofranko,
Cal U’s creative services director.
The hall’s older paintings, in the moody
“Rembrandt style,” provide little context,
Jeff Jones explains. But more recent
portraits, including Armenti’s, place the
subjects in an environment that helps to
tell their story.
He will use that contemporary style to
create a digital portrait of his spouse
before she retires.
“At first we considered hanging only the
presidents’ portraits in this space,” says
President Jones, the seventh person in
California’s history to hold that title.
It’s not about me. It’s about the history
of this wonderful University. I’m proud
to be a part of that history.”
GER ALDINE JONES, UNIVERSIT Y PRESIDENT
“But those normal school administrators
made important decisions that shaped the
history of this institution. They set California
on a path that brings us to where we are
today. They belong here too.
“And with the addition of President Armenti’s
portrait, as well as my own, we’ve brought
the collection up to date.”
Presidents Hall is one of the oldest rooms
on campus, in use since Old Main was
completed in 1871. The high-ceilinged hall
has served as the school’s library, a lecture
hall and, most recently, a place for meetings,
banquets and receptions.
President Jones remembers taking an
audio-visual course in the room during her
undergraduate years, when the space was
utilized for classrooms and offices. More
recently, she’s hosted holiday receptions for
Cal U employees and quarterly breakfasts
for community leaders in the hall.
She is pleased to know that her portrait
has been added to the collection. As the
first woman and the first person of color to
hold Cal U’s top leadership post, her image
speaks volumes about how the institution
has changed over the decades.
“It’s not about me,” President Jones
insists. “It’s about the history of this
wonderful University. I’m proud to be a
part of that history.”
By Christine Kindl
VP for Communications and Marketing
VISIT THE GALLERY
See a video highlighting the
portraits in Presidents Hall
at calu.edu/review
FA L L 2 0 2 0
PORTRAITS
IN LEADERSHIP
“A project that brings life back to a portion
of a historical room is amazing to witness.
We were able to maintain the historical look
and aesthetics while still transforming the
room. This finished project is a testament
to the type of work that members of the
Facilities Management Department do on
a daily basis.”
11
CAMPUS CLIPS
workers throughout the region and across
Pennsylvania,” says Ben Brudnock, director
of graduate admissions at Cal U.
FOR INTEGRATION
C
al U is in the midst of a
comprehensive planning process
that considers integration with
Clarion and Edinboro universities.
In addition, the integrated university will
develop a robust array of online programs
to be offered throughout the State System
and beyond.
Under the Pennsylvania State System of
Higher Education’s plan for System Redesign,
the three western Pennsylvania schools
will join forces to expand educational
opportunities and rein in costs for students.
All three universities are continuing to enroll
students as details are being worked out
on the campuses and in Harrisburg. A public
comment period is scheduled for spring.
The earliest students would enter the
integrated university is Fall 2022.
As envisioned now, integration will create a
single accredited university – a powerhouse
with more than 15,000 students across its
three campuses. Each campus will retain its
own identity, culture and traditions, System
officials say.
CAL U REVIEW
A shared menu of in-person undergraduate
and graduate programs will expand
opportunities for students who want to live
on campus or commute to college.
12
NATIONAL HONOR FOR
EXERCISE SCIENCE
PROFESSOR
He also holds athletic training
certification from the National Athletic
Trainers Association.
Dr. Ben Reuter, an
associate professor
in the Department of
Exercise Science and
Sport Studies, has
been selected as the
National Strength
and Conditioning
Association’s Sports Medicine/Rehabilitation
Specialist of the Year for 2020.
ALUMNI SERVE ON
COUNCIL OF TRUSTEES
The award recipient is chosen based on
contributions to the field of sports medicine
and to the NSCA, a nonprofit association
dedicated to advancing strength and
conditioning and related sport science
professions around the world.
Reuter, who has been a member of the NSCA
since 1988 and a certified strength and
conditioning specialist since 1990, is the 19th
recipient of the award, which began in 2001.
Four alumni and a Cal U
student are among
the newest members
of the University’s
Council of Trustees.
Barry Niccolai ’93,
executive director of
Centerville Clinics, and
James W. Harris ’80, a retired administrative
law judge, joined the council in spring.
“Our mission to serve students, and all
the residents of Pennsylvania, is arguably
more important now than ever before,”
says Dr. Daniel Greenstein, the State
System’s chancellor.
“We are building something new. It won’t
be easy, and it will take time. But we have
the intelligence, opportunity, grit and
determination to pull this off.”
Each university in Pennsylvania’s State
System of Higher Education has an
11-member Council of Trustees. These
governing bodies are charged with a variety
of duties, including review and approval of
new academic programs, students fees, and
University contracts and purchases.
HEALTH, WELLNESS PARTNERS
JOIN EDUCATIONAL ALLIANCE
Two organizations focused on health and
wellness – healthcare provider Washington
Health System and fitness equipment
manufacturer Technogym – are the first
partners to join Cal U’s new Educational
Alliance.
Justin R. Nwokeji ’05, a major gifts officer at
the University of Pittsburgh, and Sandra K.
Guthrie ’01, a partner at Guthrie, Belczyk and
Associates P.C. Certified Public Accountants,
began their service this summer.
Verified employees of Educational Alliance
partners receive a 20% tuition discount
(based on in-state rates) when they attend
Cal U. The program also offers personalized
service to support students from application
through graduation.
Maria Dovshek, a Cal U junior from Scenery
Hill, Pa., is serving as student trustee.
“Cal U is committed to making top-quality
higher education more affordable for
TWO RECOGNIZED
AS TOP PERFORMERS
Two staff members were recognized this
fall for exceptional service to the University
and its students.
Rebecca “Becky”
Barnhart ’09, ’12, ’17,
a residence hall
director in the Office
of Housing and
Residence Life,
received the Vulcan
President’s Circle
Award for outstanding job performance.
Nominators said she is “one of those people
who makes you want to do well at your job.
She is always just a phone call away – even
in the middle of the night.”
C.J. DeJuliis,
associate director of
the Teaching and
Learning Center,
accepted the
Vulcan Exceptional
Service Award.
Colleagues described
him as helpful, positive and motivating,
noting that his technology skills have eased
the shift to remote instruction during the
coronavirus pandemic.
The awards were presented virtually
during the President’s fall “State of
the University” address.
SORORITY HONORS
CAL U PROFESSIONAL
Joy Helsel ’83, ’86,
Cal U’s director
of Fraternity and
Sorority Life, received
the 2019-2020
Alpha Sigma
Alpha Outstanding
Fraternity/Sorority
Advisor Award.
The award recognizes a campus
professional for exceptional service to Alpha
Sigma Alpha, which has 175 chapters and
Room to run
Tots exercise their bodies – and their imaginations – outdoors at the Rutledge
Institute for Early Childhood Education, where new playground equipment
has been installed. The on-campus preschool program serves eligible children
ages 3-5 and provides firsthand experience for Rutledge Scholars – students
who attend Cal U tuition-free as they prepare for careers in early childhood
education. Details: calu.edu/Rutledge
120,000 members nationwide, and to the
campus community.
“Our Greek community at Cal U is very
dedicated to being good students and
citizens,” says Helsel, a Sigma Kappa sister.
“To be recognized for doing something I love
to do is hard to put into words.”
Helsel was the inaugural recipient of Sigma
Tau Gamma’s Distinguished Interfraternal
Leadership Award. She also has received
the Theta Xi Educational Foundation of
Pittsburgh Distinguished Service Award, the
Northeast Panhellenic Conference Award
of Excellence and Outstanding Advisor
Award, and Delta Chi’s Outstanding Greek
Professional Award.
ELECTION EVENTS
EDUCATE, ENGAGE
Livestreaming gave Cal U’s premier
election-season event – a timely analysis
of election results by a panel of nationally
recognized speakers – a coast-to-coast
reach this year.
Political analyst Jon Delano, the
Money & Politics Editor at KDKA-TV
in Pittsburgh, reprised his role as moderator
for the Dr. Melanie Blumberg Post-Election
Analysis Forum.
The popular event is sponsored during
election years by Cal U’s chapter of the
American Democracy Project (ADP),
a nonpartisan initiative focused on
preparing the next generation of
informed and engaged citizens.
ADP chapters, political science classes and
election-watchers across the United States
were invited to tune in to the virtual event
and submit questions for the panel.
“Although we enjoy hosting the panelists on
campus, the livestream allowed us to reach
a wider audience this year,” says Dr. Laura
Tuennerman, ADP director at Cal U.
The campus chapter took a similar
approach to other events, including virtual
DebateWatch sessions and a Constitution
Day panel on racism and inequality that drew
more than 200 students on Zoom.
This year’s ADP activities are dedicated to
the memory of political science professor
Dr. Melanie Blumberg, who passed away
last summer.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
UNIVERSITIES PLAN
Educational Alliance partnerships are
available for businesses, nonprofit groups
and membership organizations. Employees
in partner organizations may enroll in Cal U’s
undergraduate, master’s degree, certificate
or licensure programs. For details, visit
calu.edu/alliance.
13
CAMPUS CLIPS
workers throughout the region and across
Pennsylvania,” says Ben Brudnock, director
of graduate admissions at Cal U.
FOR INTEGRATION
C
al U is in the midst of a
comprehensive planning process
that considers integration with
Clarion and Edinboro universities.
In addition, the integrated university will
develop a robust array of online programs
to be offered throughout the State System
and beyond.
Under the Pennsylvania State System of
Higher Education’s plan for System Redesign,
the three western Pennsylvania schools
will join forces to expand educational
opportunities and rein in costs for students.
All three universities are continuing to enroll
students as details are being worked out
on the campuses and in Harrisburg. A public
comment period is scheduled for spring.
The earliest students would enter the
integrated university is Fall 2022.
As envisioned now, integration will create a
single accredited university – a powerhouse
with more than 15,000 students across its
three campuses. Each campus will retain its
own identity, culture and traditions, System
officials say.
CAL U REVIEW
A shared menu of in-person undergraduate
and graduate programs will expand
opportunities for students who want to live
on campus or commute to college.
12
NATIONAL HONOR FOR
EXERCISE SCIENCE
PROFESSOR
He also holds athletic training
certification from the National Athletic
Trainers Association.
Dr. Ben Reuter, an
associate professor
in the Department of
Exercise Science and
Sport Studies, has
been selected as the
National Strength
and Conditioning
Association’s Sports Medicine/Rehabilitation
Specialist of the Year for 2020.
ALUMNI SERVE ON
COUNCIL OF TRUSTEES
The award recipient is chosen based on
contributions to the field of sports medicine
and to the NSCA, a nonprofit association
dedicated to advancing strength and
conditioning and related sport science
professions around the world.
Reuter, who has been a member of the NSCA
since 1988 and a certified strength and
conditioning specialist since 1990, is the 19th
recipient of the award, which began in 2001.
Four alumni and a Cal U
student are among
the newest members
of the University’s
Council of Trustees.
Barry Niccolai ’93,
executive director of
Centerville Clinics, and
James W. Harris ’80, a retired administrative
law judge, joined the council in spring.
“Our mission to serve students, and all
the residents of Pennsylvania, is arguably
more important now than ever before,”
says Dr. Daniel Greenstein, the State
System’s chancellor.
“We are building something new. It won’t
be easy, and it will take time. But we have
the intelligence, opportunity, grit and
determination to pull this off.”
Each university in Pennsylvania’s State
System of Higher Education has an
11-member Council of Trustees. These
governing bodies are charged with a variety
of duties, including review and approval of
new academic programs, students fees, and
University contracts and purchases.
HEALTH, WELLNESS PARTNERS
JOIN EDUCATIONAL ALLIANCE
Two organizations focused on health and
wellness – healthcare provider Washington
Health System and fitness equipment
manufacturer Technogym – are the first
partners to join Cal U’s new Educational
Alliance.
Justin R. Nwokeji ’05, a major gifts officer at
the University of Pittsburgh, and Sandra K.
Guthrie ’01, a partner at Guthrie, Belczyk and
Associates P.C. Certified Public Accountants,
began their service this summer.
Verified employees of Educational Alliance
partners receive a 20% tuition discount
(based on in-state rates) when they attend
Cal U. The program also offers personalized
service to support students from application
through graduation.
Maria Dovshek, a Cal U junior from Scenery
Hill, Pa., is serving as student trustee.
“Cal U is committed to making top-quality
higher education more affordable for
TWO RECOGNIZED
AS TOP PERFORMERS
Two staff members were recognized this
fall for exceptional service to the University
and its students.
Rebecca “Becky”
Barnhart ’09, ’12, ’17,
a residence hall
director in the Office
of Housing and
Residence Life,
received the Vulcan
President’s Circle
Award for outstanding job performance.
Nominators said she is “one of those people
who makes you want to do well at your job.
She is always just a phone call away – even
in the middle of the night.”
C.J. DeJuliis,
associate director of
the Teaching and
Learning Center,
accepted the
Vulcan Exceptional
Service Award.
Colleagues described
him as helpful, positive and motivating,
noting that his technology skills have eased
the shift to remote instruction during the
coronavirus pandemic.
The awards were presented virtually
during the President’s fall “State of
the University” address.
SORORITY HONORS
CAL U PROFESSIONAL
Joy Helsel ’83, ’86,
Cal U’s director
of Fraternity and
Sorority Life, received
the 2019-2020
Alpha Sigma
Alpha Outstanding
Fraternity/Sorority
Advisor Award.
The award recognizes a campus
professional for exceptional service to Alpha
Sigma Alpha, which has 175 chapters and
Room to run
Tots exercise their bodies – and their imaginations – outdoors at the Rutledge
Institute for Early Childhood Education, where new playground equipment
has been installed. The on-campus preschool program serves eligible children
ages 3-5 and provides firsthand experience for Rutledge Scholars – students
who attend Cal U tuition-free as they prepare for careers in early childhood
education. Details: calu.edu/Rutledge
120,000 members nationwide, and to the
campus community.
“Our Greek community at Cal U is very
dedicated to being good students and
citizens,” says Helsel, a Sigma Kappa sister.
“To be recognized for doing something I love
to do is hard to put into words.”
Helsel was the inaugural recipient of Sigma
Tau Gamma’s Distinguished Interfraternal
Leadership Award. She also has received
the Theta Xi Educational Foundation of
Pittsburgh Distinguished Service Award, the
Northeast Panhellenic Conference Award
of Excellence and Outstanding Advisor
Award, and Delta Chi’s Outstanding Greek
Professional Award.
ELECTION EVENTS
EDUCATE, ENGAGE
Livestreaming gave Cal U’s premier
election-season event – a timely analysis
of election results by a panel of nationally
recognized speakers – a coast-to-coast
reach this year.
Political analyst Jon Delano, the
Money & Politics Editor at KDKA-TV
in Pittsburgh, reprised his role as moderator
for the Dr. Melanie Blumberg Post-Election
Analysis Forum.
The popular event is sponsored during
election years by Cal U’s chapter of the
American Democracy Project (ADP),
a nonpartisan initiative focused on
preparing the next generation of
informed and engaged citizens.
ADP chapters, political science classes and
election-watchers across the United States
were invited to tune in to the virtual event
and submit questions for the panel.
“Although we enjoy hosting the panelists on
campus, the livestream allowed us to reach
a wider audience this year,” says Dr. Laura
Tuennerman, ADP director at Cal U.
The campus chapter took a similar
approach to other events, including virtual
DebateWatch sessions and a Constitution
Day panel on racism and inequality that drew
more than 200 students on Zoom.
This year’s ADP activities are dedicated to
the memory of political science professor
Dr. Melanie Blumberg, who passed away
last summer.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
UNIVERSITIES PLAN
Educational Alliance partnerships are
available for businesses, nonprofit groups
and membership organizations. Employees
in partner organizations may enroll in Cal U’s
undergraduate, master’s degree, certificate
or licensure programs. For details, visit
calu.edu/alliance.
13
CAMPUS CLIPS
The University again was honored for
programming in Business, Education,
Engineering, and Career Development.
Criteria include program accreditation,
breadth of programs and track record
for success.
CARTOON BLAZE GETS
A MAKEOVER
With a wider smile,
lively eyes, a new
hairstyle and taller
physique, Blaze is
ready for action.
“Cal U provides an amazing opportunity for
students from all backgrounds to learn, grow,
and become a valuable member of society,”
says Dr. Daniel E. Engstrom, interim provost
and vice president for Academic Affairs.
The refreshed visual
representation of
Cal U’s mascot is
appearing on T-shirts, fliers, stickers and
other promotional items, as well as student
recruitment materials.
“Our faculty and staff genuinely care about
the success of each student. They want to
see each student be successful in and out
of the classroom.”
REUP NETWORK SUPPORTS
DEGREE COMPLETION
The cartoon Blaze is based on the costumed
mascot, whose look will not change.
Cal U is among the first universities
to join the ReUp Network, a national
initiative that provides a path to graduation
for students who have some college
experience but no degree.
To update the character, Cal U held virtual
focus groups with student leaders, Vulcans
athletes, admissions student ambassadors
and individuals who have appeared in
costume as mascot Blaze.
Cal U’s Creative Services team took
it from there .
“Based on student feedback, we were able
to adjust his body structure to make him
appear taller,” says artist-illustrator Philip
Haragos. “His hair was scaled back to
provide less of a ‘shaggy’ look, and other
minor adjustments added to the overall
outcome.”
Celebration in a box
Because the University was unable to host spring and winter Commencement
ceremonies on campus, all grads were mailed a package of special gifts –
a yard sign, mortarboard, alumni pin and more – so they could celebrate at
home. A second mailing held each graduate’s personalized diploma and
commemorative Commencement booklet. The Class of 2020 will be invited
to attend when in-person graduation ceremonies resume.
More than 36 million Americans have
attended college but have not finished
their degree, ReUp reports, citing data
from the National Student Clearinghouse
Research Center.
ReUp enables students to complete their
degree at any of the transfer network’s partner
institutions. The ReUp Network includes two
members of Pennsylvania’s State System of
Higher Education – Clarion University and
Cal U – and a dozen additional schools.
“Since workers without degrees are often
the most likely to lose their jobs during
economic downturns, and the last to be
hired in an upswing, college completion
can have an outsized employment impact
during periods of economic uncertainty,”
says Sarah Horn, co-founder and CEO of
ReUp Education.
Free to students, ReUp uses data science,
data-informed communication and hands-on
coaching to help students return to their
previous institution or identify another
school that meets their current needs.
Personalized coaching supports them
through graduation.
Nationwide, ReUp provides access
to more than 300 undergraduate and
graduate programs in high-demand fields
such as healthcare, business, information
technology and more.
NEW ORG CHART
FOR ACADEMICS
Cal U began the fall semester with a
streamlined academic structure designed to
provide greater consistency to the student
experience, expand teaching opportunities
for permanent faculty, and make a
significant contribution to the University’s
long-term financial sustainability.
Three undergraduate colleges have been
consolidated to form the College of
Education and Liberal Arts, and the Eberly
College of Science and Technology, each led
by a dean and an assistant dean.
The number of academic departments
has been reduced from 22 to 11.
Combining certain departments allows
Cal U to strategically align accreditations
– recognition that academic programs
meet standards of excellence – and to pair
academic programs and faculty that can
collaborate and share qualifications.
Some academic programs now are housed
within a different college or academic
department, but course content and quality,
program accreditation and graduation
requirements have not been affected.
The reorganization is expected to achieve
ongoing savings of more than $700,000
per year in personnel costs and related
expenses, without affecting students’
progress toward graduation.
At long last, Blaze even has ears.
GRANT WILL IMPROVE
WETLANDS, STREAM
CAL U REVIEW
Nearly $360,000
has been awarded
to Dr. Robert Whyte,
professor in Cal U’s
Department of
Biology, Geology
and Environmental
Sciences, for a
stream and wetland mitigation project
near state Route 981 in Westmoreland
County, Pa.
14
The work includes widening and realigning
sections of the Boyer Run waterway for
about 4.5 miles, from a location just north
of Mount Pleasant to the village of Norvelt
in Mount Pleasant Township.
The project is a cooperative effort
between Cal U, the Foundation for California
University, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
and other state and federal agencies.
Services are provided by the Partners
for Fish and Wildlife’s Farmland Habitat
Program, a conservation collaborative
based at Cal U.
Student input shapes
messaging
CAL U RECOGNIZED
FOR EXCELLENCE
The project will create about 2.9 acres of
wetlands and 1,400 feet of stream mitigation
along Boyer Run.
Cal U has been selected as a 2020-2021
College of Distinction for the school’s
commitment to undergraduate education.
Data collected by students will be added to
the data from other mitigation sites to better
evaluate the benefits and impacts of these
wetlands to the region.
The University was recognized for
excellence in the areas of student
engagement, faculty, student life
and student outcomes.
“Boyer Run, in addition to our other projects,
provides a significant opportunity for our
students to be involved in professional
activities that will move their careers
forward upon graduation,” Whyte says.
In addition to the overall College
of Distinction award, Cal U received
special recognition for the first time
in programming for Military Support
and for Equity and Inclusion.
Young-adult focus groups helped
to select Cal U’s new marketing
campaign, which encourages
future students to ‘unlock’ the
promising future they envision.
Based on the campus-wide
research behind our Cal U logos,
the ‘Unlock Your Story’ message
has been rolled out in digital and
print advertising, outdoor boards
and a new television commercial
that debuted this fall. See the
new TV spot on YouTube at
youtube.com/c/CaluEdu
FA L L 2 0 2 0
The new cartoon mascot more closely
resembles the logo for Vulcans Athletics
introduced in 2019.
15
CAMPUS CLIPS
The University again was honored for
programming in Business, Education,
Engineering, and Career Development.
Criteria include program accreditation,
breadth of programs and track record
for success.
CARTOON BLAZE GETS
A MAKEOVER
With a wider smile,
lively eyes, a new
hairstyle and taller
physique, Blaze is
ready for action.
“Cal U provides an amazing opportunity for
students from all backgrounds to learn, grow,
and become a valuable member of society,”
says Dr. Daniel E. Engstrom, interim provost
and vice president for Academic Affairs.
The refreshed visual
representation of
Cal U’s mascot is
appearing on T-shirts, fliers, stickers and
other promotional items, as well as student
recruitment materials.
“Our faculty and staff genuinely care about
the success of each student. They want to
see each student be successful in and out
of the classroom.”
REUP NETWORK SUPPORTS
DEGREE COMPLETION
The cartoon Blaze is based on the costumed
mascot, whose look will not change.
Cal U is among the first universities
to join the ReUp Network, a national
initiative that provides a path to graduation
for students who have some college
experience but no degree.
To update the character, Cal U held virtual
focus groups with student leaders, Vulcans
athletes, admissions student ambassadors
and individuals who have appeared in
costume as mascot Blaze.
Cal U’s Creative Services team took
it from there .
“Based on student feedback, we were able
to adjust his body structure to make him
appear taller,” says artist-illustrator Philip
Haragos. “His hair was scaled back to
provide less of a ‘shaggy’ look, and other
minor adjustments added to the overall
outcome.”
Celebration in a box
Because the University was unable to host spring and winter Commencement
ceremonies on campus, all grads were mailed a package of special gifts –
a yard sign, mortarboard, alumni pin and more – so they could celebrate at
home. A second mailing held each graduate’s personalized diploma and
commemorative Commencement booklet. The Class of 2020 will be invited
to attend when in-person graduation ceremonies resume.
More than 36 million Americans have
attended college but have not finished
their degree, ReUp reports, citing data
from the National Student Clearinghouse
Research Center.
ReUp enables students to complete their
degree at any of the transfer network’s partner
institutions. The ReUp Network includes two
members of Pennsylvania’s State System of
Higher Education – Clarion University and
Cal U – and a dozen additional schools.
“Since workers without degrees are often
the most likely to lose their jobs during
economic downturns, and the last to be
hired in an upswing, college completion
can have an outsized employment impact
during periods of economic uncertainty,”
says Sarah Horn, co-founder and CEO of
ReUp Education.
Free to students, ReUp uses data science,
data-informed communication and hands-on
coaching to help students return to their
previous institution or identify another
school that meets their current needs.
Personalized coaching supports them
through graduation.
Nationwide, ReUp provides access
to more than 300 undergraduate and
graduate programs in high-demand fields
such as healthcare, business, information
technology and more.
NEW ORG CHART
FOR ACADEMICS
Cal U began the fall semester with a
streamlined academic structure designed to
provide greater consistency to the student
experience, expand teaching opportunities
for permanent faculty, and make a
significant contribution to the University’s
long-term financial sustainability.
Three undergraduate colleges have been
consolidated to form the College of
Education and Liberal Arts, and the Eberly
College of Science and Technology, each led
by a dean and an assistant dean.
The number of academic departments
has been reduced from 22 to 11.
Combining certain departments allows
Cal U to strategically align accreditations
– recognition that academic programs
meet standards of excellence – and to pair
academic programs and faculty that can
collaborate and share qualifications.
Some academic programs now are housed
within a different college or academic
department, but course content and quality,
program accreditation and graduation
requirements have not been affected.
The reorganization is expected to achieve
ongoing savings of more than $700,000
per year in personnel costs and related
expenses, without affecting students’
progress toward graduation.
At long last, Blaze even has ears.
GRANT WILL IMPROVE
WETLANDS, STREAM
CAL U REVIEW
Nearly $360,000
has been awarded
to Dr. Robert Whyte,
professor in Cal U’s
Department of
Biology, Geology
and Environmental
Sciences, for a
stream and wetland mitigation project
near state Route 981 in Westmoreland
County, Pa.
14
The work includes widening and realigning
sections of the Boyer Run waterway for
about 4.5 miles, from a location just north
of Mount Pleasant to the village of Norvelt
in Mount Pleasant Township.
The project is a cooperative effort
between Cal U, the Foundation for California
University, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
and other state and federal agencies.
Services are provided by the Partners
for Fish and Wildlife’s Farmland Habitat
Program, a conservation collaborative
based at Cal U.
Student input shapes
messaging
CAL U RECOGNIZED
FOR EXCELLENCE
The project will create about 2.9 acres of
wetlands and 1,400 feet of stream mitigation
along Boyer Run.
Cal U has been selected as a 2020-2021
College of Distinction for the school’s
commitment to undergraduate education.
Data collected by students will be added to
the data from other mitigation sites to better
evaluate the benefits and impacts of these
wetlands to the region.
The University was recognized for
excellence in the areas of student
engagement, faculty, student life
and student outcomes.
“Boyer Run, in addition to our other projects,
provides a significant opportunity for our
students to be involved in professional
activities that will move their careers
forward upon graduation,” Whyte says.
In addition to the overall College
of Distinction award, Cal U received
special recognition for the first time
in programming for Military Support
and for Equity and Inclusion.
Young-adult focus groups helped
to select Cal U’s new marketing
campaign, which encourages
future students to ‘unlock’ the
promising future they envision.
Based on the campus-wide
research behind our Cal U logos,
the ‘Unlock Your Story’ message
has been rolled out in digital and
print advertising, outdoor boards
and a new television commercial
that debuted this fall. See the
new TV spot on YouTube at
youtube.com/c/CaluEdu
FA L L 2 0 2 0
The new cartoon mascot more closely
resembles the logo for Vulcans Athletics
introduced in 2019.
15
Cal U tour guide Brett Bieber (right)
points out Cal U landmarks to Isaac
Bittinger and his parents, Chad and
Shannon, who came from Accident,
Md., for a campus visit experience.
Comfortable seating welcomes future
students and their families as they
wait for a campus tour.
Smile! Mascot Blaze is ready to
pose for selfies with future Vulcans.
The bookstore entrance is right around
the corner in the Natali Student Center.
YOU'RE WELCOME
S PAC E R E D E S I G N E D W I T H V I S I TO R S I N M I N D
16
Instead of starting the campus visit experience
in Eberly Hall, future students and their families
now meet with Admissions staff inside the
Natali Student Center, where a portion of the
bookstore has been remodeled to welcome
future Vulcans.
University logos and the “Unlock Your Story”
message set the scene for visitors. Large wall
panels in Vulcan red feature a campus map,
high-impact images and fun facts about Cal U.
A life-size cutout of mascot Blaze is the perfect
companion for Instagram-worthy selfies.
“It’s important to make a strong first impression,
and the new Welcome Center does exactly
that,” says T. David Garcia, vice president for
Enrollment Management.
“It’s a welcoming space that never lets you
forget where you are or why you’ve come to
California. It’s the ideal start to a new student’s
Cal U journey.”
FA L L 2 0 2 0
CAL U REVIEW
W
ith a new location and a bold new look,
Cal U’s remodeled Welcome Center is
making first impressions count.
17
Cal U tour guide Brett Bieber (right)
points out Cal U landmarks to Isaac
Bittinger and his parents, Chad and
Shannon, who came from Accident,
Md., for a campus visit experience.
Comfortable seating welcomes future
students and their families as they
wait for a campus tour.
Smile! Mascot Blaze is ready to
pose for selfies with future Vulcans.
The bookstore entrance is right around
the corner in the Natali Student Center.
YOU'RE WELCOME
S PAC E R E D E S I G N E D W I T H V I S I TO R S I N M I N D
16
Instead of starting the campus visit experience
in Eberly Hall, future students and their families
now meet with Admissions staff inside the
Natali Student Center, where a portion of the
bookstore has been remodeled to welcome
future Vulcans.
University logos and the “Unlock Your Story”
message set the scene for visitors. Large wall
panels in Vulcan red feature a campus map,
high-impact images and fun facts about Cal U.
A life-size cutout of mascot Blaze is the perfect
companion for Instagram-worthy selfies.
“It’s important to make a strong first impression,
and the new Welcome Center does exactly
that,” says T. David Garcia, vice president for
Enrollment Management.
“It’s a welcoming space that never lets you
forget where you are or why you’ve come to
California. It’s the ideal start to a new student’s
Cal U journey.”
FA L L 2 0 2 0
CAL U REVIEW
W
ith a new location and a bold new look,
Cal U’s remodeled Welcome Center is
making first impressions count.
17
INTERN SPOTLIGHT
SUPPLY CHAIN PARTNER
Business major ‘drills down on data’
&
BIOLOGY MAJOR MONITORS MICHIGAN WILDLIFE
K
eeping tabs on sensitive species was the highlight of
Maille O’Toole’s internship. A senior who’s studying fisheries
and wildlife biology, O’Toole interned with the Wildlife
Department of the U.S. Forest Service, in Michigan’s Manistee
National Forest.
There she worked alongside wildlife technicians to survey and
monitor a number of federally classified sensitive species, including
birds such as the goshawk, red-shouldered hawk, Louisiana
waterthrush, cerulean warbler and piping plover.
B
etter business through better
collaborations. Marc Gibson, a
business administration major with
a concentration in economics and minor in
computer science, interned remotely to help
SAB Ariba achieve just that.
SAP Ariba is a procurement and supply chain
collaboration solution that connects suppliers
and other trading partners around the world.
Gibson gained experience in the company’s
critical incident engagement area.
“It’s basically high-level customer support,
where my team triages our clients’ very timesensitive problems and gets them sent to the
appropriate people to be solved,” he explains.
“This requires considerable knowledge,
which is why I did a lot of shadowing with
co-workers on Skype, sharing the screen so
I could watch them triage service requests
and ask any questions that I might have.”
Gibson also gained experience with
Microsoft Power BI software, which can
be used to generate reports to ensure teams
meet performance goals.
“Once in there I analyzed it and created
visuals such as bar graphs, pie charts
and matrix tables that drill down on the
data,” he says.
“I made my presentation to my boss’s
boss and other project leads, which is kind
of a big deal because it put me in front of
some very high-level people at Ariba.”
Gibson found a Cal U network at the company,
including supervisor Josh Dvorchak ’05,
Alan Natali ’74, ’79 and Bob Buttermore ’89.
“There are several Cal U alumni at SAP Ariba
who are very successful, which reflects on
how the school prepares its students for
successful careers,” Gibson says.
“I think that Cal U is a great school. Many
of my professors have always gone out of
their way to be helpful. This internship will
definitely positively impact me.”
She also monitored box turtles, wood turtles, spotted turtles
and massasauga rattlesnakes.
O’Toole spent time at savannah restoration sites, where sections of
land were reseeded with native grasses. Her group dug holes and
installed nearly 50 barrier posts between three sites to stop any
motorized vehicles from entering. They also planted milkweed to
encourage monarch butterflies to lay eggs in the area.
O’Toole received academic credits, housing and a weekly stipend
for her work.
“My experiences with the Forest Service will really advance my
resume,” she says. “The skills I acquired are priceless.”
O’Toole’s summer internship continues a relationship with Cal U
started almost 15 years ago by Dr. Carol Bocetti, a professor in
Cal U’s Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Sciences.
“They (Forest Service officials) report that our students are well
prepared for field work and are highly motivated to build additional
professional skills,” Bocetti says. “It has been a very good relationship
for both forests and for Cal U.”
CAL U REVIEW
A native of Venetia, Pa., and vice president of the Cal U equestrian
team, O’Toole transferred to California after earning an associate
degree from Potomac State College.
18
“I love the classes here, although they are rigorous,” she says.
“I am so grateful to Dr. Bocetti for helping me with my transition
to Cal U, and setting this internship up for me.
“I feel much more prepared for starting my career thanks to her
and this internship.”
COMMUNITY NEWS
English major sees
her words in print
H
annah Wyman has quite a resume.
The University Honors Program
student is an English major with
a minor in women’s studies, news editor
for the Cal Times, a peer mentor, and a
member of the Student Activities Board
and Alpha Lambda Delta.
She has also completed an internship
with the Erie Reader, a weekly alternative
newspaper focused on art, culture
and news.
This internship
gave me the
chance to talk
to so many people
I never would
have talked to.”
“I enjoyed … covering the local impacts and
how people come together for these efforts,”
Wyman says. “It’s been moving seeing
people step up and help each other out.
Writing mostly from home, like many
professional journalists, Wyman had
dozens of stories published this summer,
many about the COVID-19 pandemic. She
also covered protests in Erie following the
death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
“This internship gave me the chance to
talk to so many people I never would have
talked to.”
Her interview subjects included a man who
started a petition seeking to remove an Erie
police officer after a video of an alleged
assault during a peaceful protest went viral,
and a person who started a GoFundMe
page for a protester who was arrested.
Wyman brought her community-oriented
experience back to the Cal Times student
newspaper, which publishes online at
caltimes.org. She hopes to continue
community coverage once face-to-face
instruction resumes on campus.
Journalism professor Dr. Debbie Goh is not
surprised by Wyman’s success.
“Even with the most basic assignment …
she will look for ways to present her stories
so that they will be meaningful and engaging
to her readers.
“In the current climate, where the news
industry is facing so many threats, it is
heartening to have a student like Hannah,
who is passionate and dedicated to pursuing
impactful journalism.”
By Bruce Wald ’85 (retired),
information writer at Cal U
FA L L 2 0 2 0
“I got the chance to use a variety of equipment, such as a radio
telemetry device to locate animals and track their movements,” she
says. “We were out in the field every day working on something new.”
19
INTERN SPOTLIGHT
SUPPLY CHAIN PARTNER
Business major ‘drills down on data’
&
BIOLOGY MAJOR MONITORS MICHIGAN WILDLIFE
K
eeping tabs on sensitive species was the highlight of
Maille O’Toole’s internship. A senior who’s studying fisheries
and wildlife biology, O’Toole interned with the Wildlife
Department of the U.S. Forest Service, in Michigan’s Manistee
National Forest.
There she worked alongside wildlife technicians to survey and
monitor a number of federally classified sensitive species, including
birds such as the goshawk, red-shouldered hawk, Louisiana
waterthrush, cerulean warbler and piping plover.
B
etter business through better
collaborations. Marc Gibson, a
business administration major with
a concentration in economics and minor in
computer science, interned remotely to help
SAB Ariba achieve just that.
SAP Ariba is a procurement and supply chain
collaboration solution that connects suppliers
and other trading partners around the world.
Gibson gained experience in the company’s
critical incident engagement area.
“It’s basically high-level customer support,
where my team triages our clients’ very timesensitive problems and gets them sent to the
appropriate people to be solved,” he explains.
“This requires considerable knowledge,
which is why I did a lot of shadowing with
co-workers on Skype, sharing the screen so
I could watch them triage service requests
and ask any questions that I might have.”
Gibson also gained experience with
Microsoft Power BI software, which can
be used to generate reports to ensure teams
meet performance goals.
“Once in there I analyzed it and created
visuals such as bar graphs, pie charts
and matrix tables that drill down on the
data,” he says.
“I made my presentation to my boss’s
boss and other project leads, which is kind
of a big deal because it put me in front of
some very high-level people at Ariba.”
Gibson found a Cal U network at the company,
including supervisor Josh Dvorchak ’05,
Alan Natali ’74, ’79 and Bob Buttermore ’89.
“There are several Cal U alumni at SAP Ariba
who are very successful, which reflects on
how the school prepares its students for
successful careers,” Gibson says.
“I think that Cal U is a great school. Many
of my professors have always gone out of
their way to be helpful. This internship will
definitely positively impact me.”
She also monitored box turtles, wood turtles, spotted turtles
and massasauga rattlesnakes.
O’Toole spent time at savannah restoration sites, where sections of
land were reseeded with native grasses. Her group dug holes and
installed nearly 50 barrier posts between three sites to stop any
motorized vehicles from entering. They also planted milkweed to
encourage monarch butterflies to lay eggs in the area.
O’Toole received academic credits, housing and a weekly stipend
for her work.
“My experiences with the Forest Service will really advance my
resume,” she says. “The skills I acquired are priceless.”
O’Toole’s summer internship continues a relationship with Cal U
started almost 15 years ago by Dr. Carol Bocetti, a professor in
Cal U’s Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Sciences.
“They (Forest Service officials) report that our students are well
prepared for field work and are highly motivated to build additional
professional skills,” Bocetti says. “It has been a very good relationship
for both forests and for Cal U.”
CAL U REVIEW
A native of Venetia, Pa., and vice president of the Cal U equestrian
team, O’Toole transferred to California after earning an associate
degree from Potomac State College.
18
“I love the classes here, although they are rigorous,” she says.
“I am so grateful to Dr. Bocetti for helping me with my transition
to Cal U, and setting this internship up for me.
“I feel much more prepared for starting my career thanks to her
and this internship.”
COMMUNITY NEWS
English major sees
her words in print
H
annah Wyman has quite a resume.
The University Honors Program
student is an English major with
a minor in women’s studies, news editor
for the Cal Times, a peer mentor, and a
member of the Student Activities Board
and Alpha Lambda Delta.
She has also completed an internship
with the Erie Reader, a weekly alternative
newspaper focused on art, culture
and news.
This internship
gave me the
chance to talk
to so many people
I never would
have talked to.”
“I enjoyed … covering the local impacts and
how people come together for these efforts,”
Wyman says. “It’s been moving seeing
people step up and help each other out.
Writing mostly from home, like many
professional journalists, Wyman had
dozens of stories published this summer,
many about the COVID-19 pandemic. She
also covered protests in Erie following the
death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
“This internship gave me the chance to
talk to so many people I never would have
talked to.”
Her interview subjects included a man who
started a petition seeking to remove an Erie
police officer after a video of an alleged
assault during a peaceful protest went viral,
and a person who started a GoFundMe
page for a protester who was arrested.
Wyman brought her community-oriented
experience back to the Cal Times student
newspaper, which publishes online at
caltimes.org. She hopes to continue
community coverage once face-to-face
instruction resumes on campus.
Journalism professor Dr. Debbie Goh is not
surprised by Wyman’s success.
“Even with the most basic assignment …
she will look for ways to present her stories
so that they will be meaningful and engaging
to her readers.
“In the current climate, where the news
industry is facing so many threats, it is
heartening to have a student like Hannah,
who is passionate and dedicated to pursuing
impactful journalism.”
By Bruce Wald ’85 (retired),
information writer at Cal U
FA L L 2 0 2 0
“I got the chance to use a variety of equipment, such as a radio
telemetry device to locate animals and track their movements,” she
says. “We were out in the field every day working on something new.”
19
ALUMNI NEWS
While 2020 was not the year that any of us
expected, I’m thankful for the great traditions
that define our alumni experience and keep us
engaged with one another and our University.
ni business
Help us support alum Business
lU
owners with the Ca alumni-owned
for
Exchange! Search your own
it
businesses or subm d and reach
te
enterprise to be lis ial customers.
nt
te
nearly 60,000 po
alu-bizexchange
Visit tinyurl.com/c business or to
ned
to find a Cal U-ow
list yours today.
In 2020 we were challenged to honor
and uphold many of those traditions while
re-creating the alumni experience to suit new
circumstances. Along the way, we created
some “new traditions,” including those of
the digital variety.
Whether through a virtual happy hour, a
digital Homecoming@Home celebration,
online trivia night or social media session
with long-lost California friends, we hope
you’ve been able to find a way to stay
connected with our alma mater.
We love to hear from you, too! Keep sending
us word of those milestones in your life, and
keep your information up to date with the
Alumni Relations Office. (You can update
at tinyurl.com/caluupdate.)
As we prepare for whatever the new year
may bring, we wish you health, wealth, success
and happiness. We hope to see you soon!
Dr. Ryan Barnhart '08, '09, '19
CAL U REVIEW
DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS
20
Stay connected to the Cal U Alumni
Association's online community! Contact
the Alumni Office at alumni@calu.edu or
724-938-4418 (use option 4) to request
your personal ID number. You can email
or call us any time for details about
upcoming alumni events.
SCHOOL COLORS
Future Vulcan Reagan, da
ughter
of Philip Locante ’10, ’11 an
d
Briana Akins Locante ’15
,
celebrates Homecoming@H
ome
with her parents by color
ing
everyone’s favorite Vulca
n, Blaze!
LET’S GET
SOCIAL
Connect with fellow alumni,
ws
get important University ne
h
in real time and stay in touc
with alumni activities at
Cal U. Look for @calualumni
on Facebook, Twitter,
and Instagram.
HOME(COMING)
DELIVERY
Expand your professio
nal network
with Cal U’s LinkedIn
resources. With
nearly 30,000 potent
ial connections,
following the University
’s LinkedIn page
or joining the Californi
a University of
Pennsylvania Alumni gr
oup is a great
way to connect with yo
ur fellow alumni.
Alumni Julia Shumar ’19, Davis
Slagle ’10 and Stefen Smith ’17,
employees at BeeGraphix, stuff
boxes with everything needed to
celebrate Homecoming@Home. Grads
purchased 242 boxes, each filled
with a T-shirt and other branded
items. Proceeds supported the Cal U
Cupboard food pantry.
READY
TO RUN
ATION
VULCAN N
SEASON 3
st,
l alumni podca
tion, our officia
featuring
The Vulcan Na
d season, now
ir
th
s
it
h
it
e.
w
is back
ble on YouTub
ila
va
a
o
ls
a
s
e
pp or
video episod
rite podcast a
vo
fa
r
ou
y
h
it
on,
Listen w
/vulcan-nati
m
o
.c
rl
u
y
n
ti
t
om/
on Spotify a
be at tinyurl.c
u
T
ou
Y
on
h
tc
and wa
outube.
calualumni-y
alumni
for interesting
g
in
k
o
lo
s
y
a
ture
We are alw
atured on a fu
fe
e
b
to
e
lik
guests. If you’d lcan Nation, contact the
e Vu
du.
episode of Th
alumni@calu.e
t
a
s
on
ti
la
e
R
i
n
Office of Alum
Kate Vaughan ’00 is all decked
out for the Vulcan Virtual 5K.
Ninety intrepid runners took
part in the event, running 3.1
miles (5 kilometers) in locations
of their choosing. The virtual
race raised funds for the Class
of 2020 Scholarship.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
HAPPY
NEWYEAR,
NETWORK ON
LINKEDIN
GIVE 'EM
S
THE BUSINES
21
ALUMNI NEWS
While 2020 was not the year that any of us
expected, I’m thankful for the great traditions
that define our alumni experience and keep us
engaged with one another and our University.
ni business
Help us support alum Business
lU
owners with the Ca alumni-owned
for
Exchange! Search your own
it
businesses or subm d and reach
te
enterprise to be lis ial customers.
nt
te
nearly 60,000 po
alu-bizexchange
Visit tinyurl.com/c business or to
ned
to find a Cal U-ow
list yours today.
In 2020 we were challenged to honor
and uphold many of those traditions while
re-creating the alumni experience to suit new
circumstances. Along the way, we created
some “new traditions,” including those of
the digital variety.
Whether through a virtual happy hour, a
digital Homecoming@Home celebration,
online trivia night or social media session
with long-lost California friends, we hope
you’ve been able to find a way to stay
connected with our alma mater.
We love to hear from you, too! Keep sending
us word of those milestones in your life, and
keep your information up to date with the
Alumni Relations Office. (You can update
at tinyurl.com/caluupdate.)
As we prepare for whatever the new year
may bring, we wish you health, wealth, success
and happiness. We hope to see you soon!
Dr. Ryan Barnhart '08, '09, '19
CAL U REVIEW
DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS
20
Stay connected to the Cal U Alumni
Association's online community! Contact
the Alumni Office at alumni@calu.edu or
724-938-4418 (use option 4) to request
your personal ID number. You can email
or call us any time for details about
upcoming alumni events.
SCHOOL COLORS
Future Vulcan Reagan, da
ughter
of Philip Locante ’10, ’11 an
d
Briana Akins Locante ’15
,
celebrates Homecoming@H
ome
with her parents by color
ing
everyone’s favorite Vulca
n, Blaze!
LET’S GET
SOCIAL
Connect with fellow alumni,
ws
get important University ne
h
in real time and stay in touc
with alumni activities at
Cal U. Look for @calualumni
on Facebook, Twitter,
and Instagram.
HOME(COMING)
DELIVERY
Expand your professio
nal network
with Cal U’s LinkedIn
resources. With
nearly 30,000 potent
ial connections,
following the University
’s LinkedIn page
or joining the Californi
a University of
Pennsylvania Alumni gr
oup is a great
way to connect with yo
ur fellow alumni.
Alumni Julia Shumar ’19, Davis
Slagle ’10 and Stefen Smith ’17,
employees at BeeGraphix, stuff
boxes with everything needed to
celebrate Homecoming@Home. Grads
purchased 242 boxes, each filled
with a T-shirt and other branded
items. Proceeds supported the Cal U
Cupboard food pantry.
READY
TO RUN
ATION
VULCAN N
SEASON 3
st,
l alumni podca
tion, our officia
featuring
The Vulcan Na
d season, now
ir
th
s
it
h
it
e.
w
is back
ble on YouTub
ila
va
a
o
ls
a
s
e
pp or
video episod
rite podcast a
vo
fa
r
ou
y
h
it
on,
Listen w
/vulcan-nati
m
o
.c
rl
u
y
n
ti
t
om/
on Spotify a
be at tinyurl.c
u
T
ou
Y
on
h
tc
and wa
outube.
calualumni-y
alumni
for interesting
g
in
k
o
lo
s
y
a
ture
We are alw
atured on a fu
fe
e
b
to
e
lik
guests. If you’d lcan Nation, contact the
e Vu
du.
episode of Th
alumni@calu.e
t
a
s
on
ti
la
e
R
i
n
Office of Alum
Kate Vaughan ’00 is all decked
out for the Vulcan Virtual 5K.
Ninety intrepid runners took
part in the event, running 3.1
miles (5 kilometers) in locations
of their choosing. The virtual
race raised funds for the Class
of 2020 Scholarship.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
HAPPY
NEWYEAR,
NETWORK ON
LINKEDIN
GIVE 'EM
S
THE BUSINES
21
Carolyn Tardd
Shujuane Martin
Dr. Kelton Edmonds
Adisa Hargett-Robinson
Dr. Saroyi Morris
Fred Smith Jr.
Professional Excellence Award
C.B. Wilson Distinguished Faculty Award
Young Alumni Award
Dr. Kelton Edmonds’ teaching and scholarship focus on African
American studies. A Cal U professor, he has re-established Black
History Month as a major event on campus and served as director
of the University’s Frederick Douglass Institute program.
W.S. Jackman Award of Distinction
Dr. Saroyi Morris ’92 works for the Georgia Department of Public
Health as program manager for the state’s Coastal Health District.
She serves on the Georgia Public Health Association’s board of
directors and teaches at the College of Coastal Georgia.
Michael Duda Award for Athletic Achievement
Brooque Williams ’10 plays basketball professionally overseas.
A four-year starter for the Vulcans (2006-2010), she was a
two-time WBCA All-American and the 2009 NCAA D-II Atlantic
Regional Tournament’s Most Valuable Player. She is a member
of the Cal U Athletic Hall of Fame.
CAL U REVIEW
Donna Barbisch
John R. Gregg Award for Loyalty and Service
Carolyn Tardd ’78 retired after 40 years of service to the Athletics
Department. An unofficial mentor and “mom” to thousands of
student-athletes and student workers over the years, she still
volunteers as a game-day administrator for Vulcan Athletics.
22
Brooque Williams
Pavlak/Shutsy Special Service Award
Eric Zwigart ’98 is CEO of RPP Products, which manufactures and
distributes auto products. He received two Spirit of Entrepreneurship
awards in 2018. His experience as a fraternity brother inspired him
to create a scholarship for Acacia fraternity members at Cal U.
Eric Zwigart
William Viola II
Shujuane Martin ’01, ’03 is president and CEO of the Private Industry
Council of Westmoreland/Fayette Inc. A past recipient of the Jennie
Carter Award at Cal U, she oversees the $23 million budget that
supports PIC’s 24 programs and 300 employees.
Adisa Hargett-Robinson ’16 is an on-air producer for the Department
of Veterans Affairs, where she creates digital and social media
content for various channels. A former news reporter, she is a
member of the National Association of Black Journalists.
26
TH
CLASS ENTERS
ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME
A
lthough athletics competition
was suspended this fall,
Cal U continues its tradition
of inducting former Vulcans standouts
into the Athletics Hall of Fame. This
year’s class is the 26th cohort of these
distinguished honorees.
Laskey’s victories rank second in PSAC
men’s soccer history. He led the program
to PSAC Championship appearances five
times; earned the program’s first league
title, in 2008; and guided the Vulcans
to the NCAA Tournament three times
in eight years, from 2004-2011.
Amanda Heister-DelGreco ’09 was a
prolific forward on the Cal U women’s
soccer team from 2006-2009.
Three-time All-American Kayla
Smith ’10,’ 11 was a dominant
forward for Vulcans basketball
from 2006-2011.
Named PSAC Athlete of the Year as
a senior, she helped the Vulcans make
their first appearances in the PSAC
and NCAA tournaments in 2009.
She led the PSAC with 19 goals and
42 points as a senior and was an
NSCAA and Daktronics first-team
all-region selection.
Heister-DelGreco holds all-time school
records of 44 goals and 107 points.
Only one other player has eclipsed
the century mark in points.
Meritorious Award
Bernard “Bernie” Kalocay ’65
was a standout pitcher for Vulcans
baseball and a two-year team captain
in the 1960s.
Rear Admiral William R. Furlong Award
for Military Service
He helped the program advance to the
NAIA National Tournament in Saint
Joseph, Mo., in both 1962 and 1963.
Kalocay posted a 4-0 record with a 1.29
ERA as a sophomore and finished his
career with 18 victories, winning at least
four games each season.
Fred Smith Jr. ’83 is president and CEO of the consulting firm KFS
Strategic Management Services. He’s also a co-founder and chief
innovation officer for the Innovative Leadership Program, a nonprofit
group that brings STEM education to underserved youths.
Donna Barbisch ’84 is a retired U.S. Army major general and
CEO of Wicked Solutions, a consultancy for leadership and
decision-making in disasters and complex conflicts. She is
among the nation’s most distinguished experts in terrorism,
threat reduction and disaster preparedness.
Alumni Choice: Illustrious Californian
William Viola II ’69 is an entrepreneur, martial arts instructor
and mixed martial arts pioneer. Credited by some as co-creator
of the sport of MMA, he is the co-founder of CV Productions Inc.,
the first mixed martial arts company in the United States.
Kalocay passed away on July 29, 2020.
Dennis Laskey ’84, ’06 was head coach
for men’s soccer from 1984-1988 and
1991-2012, and for women’s soccer
from 1990-2001.
In both sports he is the all-time winningest
coach in school history, with a total 258223-41 mark with the men’s program and
an 89-123-13 record with the women’s.
She helped Cal U capture NCAA Atlantic
Regional championships in 2007 and
2008 and was the 2011 PSAC West
Athlete of the Year. In her last two
seasons she ranked among the top five
in the country in rebounds per game.
Smith holds the all-time school record
with 1,309 rebounds and ranks third with
2,096 points. She is one of eight players
in PSAC history – three from Cal U –
to finish with more than 2,000 career
points and 1,000 rebounds.
Randy Sturgill ’11 was a standout
pitcher for Vulcans baseball from
2008-2011 and received multiple
All-America honors in his final
two seasons.
The Vulcans’ ace throughout his
career, Sturgill helped his team
capture the 2010 PSAC Championship.
He led the league in strikeouts and
was the PSAC West Pitcher of the
Year in both 2010 and 2011.
Despite playing just three seasons,
Sturgill holds the all-time school
record with 23 victories and ranks
second with 241 strikeouts. He also
ranks among the top five in school
history with a 2.88 ERA and 16
complete games in his career.
By Matt Kifer, sports information director at Cal U
Amanda
Heister-DelGreco
Bernard “Bernie”
Kalocay
Dennis Laskey
Kayla Smith
Randy Sturgill
FA L L 2 0 2 0
2020
ALUMNI
ASSOCIATION AWARDS
23
Carolyn Tardd
Shujuane Martin
Dr. Kelton Edmonds
Adisa Hargett-Robinson
Dr. Saroyi Morris
Fred Smith Jr.
Professional Excellence Award
C.B. Wilson Distinguished Faculty Award
Young Alumni Award
Dr. Kelton Edmonds’ teaching and scholarship focus on African
American studies. A Cal U professor, he has re-established Black
History Month as a major event on campus and served as director
of the University’s Frederick Douglass Institute program.
W.S. Jackman Award of Distinction
Dr. Saroyi Morris ’92 works for the Georgia Department of Public
Health as program manager for the state’s Coastal Health District.
She serves on the Georgia Public Health Association’s board of
directors and teaches at the College of Coastal Georgia.
Michael Duda Award for Athletic Achievement
Brooque Williams ’10 plays basketball professionally overseas.
A four-year starter for the Vulcans (2006-2010), she was a
two-time WBCA All-American and the 2009 NCAA D-II Atlantic
Regional Tournament’s Most Valuable Player. She is a member
of the Cal U Athletic Hall of Fame.
CAL U REVIEW
Donna Barbisch
John R. Gregg Award for Loyalty and Service
Carolyn Tardd ’78 retired after 40 years of service to the Athletics
Department. An unofficial mentor and “mom” to thousands of
student-athletes and student workers over the years, she still
volunteers as a game-day administrator for Vulcan Athletics.
22
Brooque Williams
Pavlak/Shutsy Special Service Award
Eric Zwigart ’98 is CEO of RPP Products, which manufactures and
distributes auto products. He received two Spirit of Entrepreneurship
awards in 2018. His experience as a fraternity brother inspired him
to create a scholarship for Acacia fraternity members at Cal U.
Eric Zwigart
William Viola II
Shujuane Martin ’01, ’03 is president and CEO of the Private Industry
Council of Westmoreland/Fayette Inc. A past recipient of the Jennie
Carter Award at Cal U, she oversees the $23 million budget that
supports PIC’s 24 programs and 300 employees.
Adisa Hargett-Robinson ’16 is an on-air producer for the Department
of Veterans Affairs, where she creates digital and social media
content for various channels. A former news reporter, she is a
member of the National Association of Black Journalists.
26
TH
CLASS ENTERS
ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME
A
lthough athletics competition
was suspended this fall,
Cal U continues its tradition
of inducting former Vulcans standouts
into the Athletics Hall of Fame. This
year’s class is the 26th cohort of these
distinguished honorees.
Laskey’s victories rank second in PSAC
men’s soccer history. He led the program
to PSAC Championship appearances five
times; earned the program’s first league
title, in 2008; and guided the Vulcans
to the NCAA Tournament three times
in eight years, from 2004-2011.
Amanda Heister-DelGreco ’09 was a
prolific forward on the Cal U women’s
soccer team from 2006-2009.
Three-time All-American Kayla
Smith ’10,’ 11 was a dominant
forward for Vulcans basketball
from 2006-2011.
Named PSAC Athlete of the Year as
a senior, she helped the Vulcans make
their first appearances in the PSAC
and NCAA tournaments in 2009.
She led the PSAC with 19 goals and
42 points as a senior and was an
NSCAA and Daktronics first-team
all-region selection.
Heister-DelGreco holds all-time school
records of 44 goals and 107 points.
Only one other player has eclipsed
the century mark in points.
Meritorious Award
Bernard “Bernie” Kalocay ’65
was a standout pitcher for Vulcans
baseball and a two-year team captain
in the 1960s.
Rear Admiral William R. Furlong Award
for Military Service
He helped the program advance to the
NAIA National Tournament in Saint
Joseph, Mo., in both 1962 and 1963.
Kalocay posted a 4-0 record with a 1.29
ERA as a sophomore and finished his
career with 18 victories, winning at least
four games each season.
Fred Smith Jr. ’83 is president and CEO of the consulting firm KFS
Strategic Management Services. He’s also a co-founder and chief
innovation officer for the Innovative Leadership Program, a nonprofit
group that brings STEM education to underserved youths.
Donna Barbisch ’84 is a retired U.S. Army major general and
CEO of Wicked Solutions, a consultancy for leadership and
decision-making in disasters and complex conflicts. She is
among the nation’s most distinguished experts in terrorism,
threat reduction and disaster preparedness.
Alumni Choice: Illustrious Californian
William Viola II ’69 is an entrepreneur, martial arts instructor
and mixed martial arts pioneer. Credited by some as co-creator
of the sport of MMA, he is the co-founder of CV Productions Inc.,
the first mixed martial arts company in the United States.
Kalocay passed away on July 29, 2020.
Dennis Laskey ’84, ’06 was head coach
for men’s soccer from 1984-1988 and
1991-2012, and for women’s soccer
from 1990-2001.
In both sports he is the all-time winningest
coach in school history, with a total 258223-41 mark with the men’s program and
an 89-123-13 record with the women’s.
She helped Cal U capture NCAA Atlantic
Regional championships in 2007 and
2008 and was the 2011 PSAC West
Athlete of the Year. In her last two
seasons she ranked among the top five
in the country in rebounds per game.
Smith holds the all-time school record
with 1,309 rebounds and ranks third with
2,096 points. She is one of eight players
in PSAC history – three from Cal U –
to finish with more than 2,000 career
points and 1,000 rebounds.
Randy Sturgill ’11 was a standout
pitcher for Vulcans baseball from
2008-2011 and received multiple
All-America honors in his final
two seasons.
The Vulcans’ ace throughout his
career, Sturgill helped his team
capture the 2010 PSAC Championship.
He led the league in strikeouts and
was the PSAC West Pitcher of the
Year in both 2010 and 2011.
Despite playing just three seasons,
Sturgill holds the all-time school
record with 23 victories and ranks
second with 241 strikeouts. He also
ranks among the top five in school
history with a 2.88 ERA and 16
complete games in his career.
By Matt Kifer, sports information director at Cal U
Amanda
Heister-DelGreco
Bernard “Bernie”
Kalocay
Dennis Laskey
Kayla Smith
Randy Sturgill
FA L L 2 0 2 0
2020
ALUMNI
ASSOCIATION AWARDS
23
HELPING
OTHERS THRIVE
A
lexia Doumbouya ’05 is passionate
about giving others a hand.
STATE
PARKS
STEWARD
A
s more people enjoyed outdoor activities amid the
coronavirus pandemic, locations like Linn Run State Park
in Westmoreland County, Pa., were busier than ever during
spring, summer and fall 2020.
Which means Corey Snyder has rarely been busier. Or happier.
The director of the Linn Run State Park Complex – which also
includes the nearby Laurel Summit and Laurel Mountain state parks
– began his job in June. He graduated from Cal U in 2002 with his
bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation management and in
2004 with a master’s degree in geography.
Snyder spent five years as manager of the Memorial Lake State
Park Complex in Lebanon County, and three years as manager
of Tyler State Park. The U.S. Army veteran served with the
infantry from 2006 to 2010, including a deployment to Iraq
in 2008-2009.
Now Snyder oversees 612 acres of state park at Linn Run,
493 at Laurel Mountain and six at Laurel Summit.
“My role is to provide for the safety of our patrons as much
as we look after the natural resources,” he says.
“Park attendance in the commonwealth this year was way,
way up, because we were open when many things were
closed or canceled. We’ve had visitors come in droves, and it
has been a positive to take out of the (pandemic) situation that
more people are experiencing the beauty of our state parks.”
There have been challenges, but Snyder embraced those, too, with a
small but ambitious paid staff and a crew of volunteers, all of whom
are essential to park operations.
“The impact from more visitors has been a challenge – for instance,
we had to clean more often – but that’s what we’re here for,” he
says. “Our patrons have been very understanding, and it has been
a team effort all the way around.
Cal U REVIEW
“People often ask how much it costs to get into state parks, and the
answer is, it’s absolutely free. It’s a wonderful natural resource for
everyone to enjoy."
24
By Wendy Mackall, communications director at Cal U
As a student at Cal U, Doumbouya
studied international business and
economics, with a minor in leadership.
“I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with it
then, but I always knew I wanted to help
people,” she says.
Since then, she’s found multiple ways of
doing just that.
Today, she’s a busy mother of two
who runs two businesses and helps
her husband administer a third. She
coordinates community outreach to
women entrepreneurs and cohosts The
Legacy Podcast Philly, a project that
engages entrepreneurs and other leaders in
discussions about business, issues faced by
the African American community and faith.
After spending 12 years in corporate
executive leadership and administrative
roles, Doumbouya founded Milestone Pros
LLC, a Philadelphia-based “professional
evolution agency,” in 2017. As CEO, she
connects small businesses with coaching,
training and other resources.
My biggest goal is to see
all the different women
in a diverse way be able
to share resources,
share services and help
each other grow.”
She and her team help entrepreneurs
identify opportunities to grow, and
she relishes those moments when
her clients say, “Oh, gosh, I didn’t even
think about that.”
In fact, even in the midst of the pandemic,
she saw opportunities for her clients
to develop affordable virtual customer
support infrastructure.
As she was researching new business
opportunities for a client, Doumbouya
discovered Walker’s Legacy, an organization
that promotes the career advancement, skill
sets and networks of multicultural women
in business and women entrepreneurs.
A LE X I A
DOUMBOU YA ’05
Impressed, she reached out to volunteer.
The organization, instead, asked her to take
on a more substantial role.
In March, she became the Philadelphia city
director for Walker’s Legacy, coordinating
the organization’s outreach efforts at the
local level.
Doumbouya is finding other ways to help
women, too, including the recent launch of
Cocobump.com, an initiative that helps to
reduce racial disparities in maternal health.
“My biggest goal is to see all the different
women in a diverse way be able to share
resources, share services and help each
other grow.”
HIGHLIGHT REELS
IN TAMPA BAY
P
rofessional football is action-packed,
and it’s Daniel Beeck’s job to catch
it all.
The 2019 graduate is a video producer for
the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
His job includes shooting video and putting
together highlight reels, game-day trailers
and other segments that are used on the
Buccaneers’ social media platforms and
website. He uses video to tell players’
stories, giving fans a chance to get to know
the athletes beyond the field.
“Storytelling plays into every facet of what I
do,” says the former communication studies
major. “And I owe a lot of my storytelling
ability to the foundational building blocks
that I was able to gather at Cal U.”
As a student, Beeck took on roles with
campus radio station WCAL, CUTV and
the Cal Times student newspaper.
Although he wasn’t entirely sure what he
wanted to do after graduation, he knew
that he wanted to work for a professional
sports franchise. He had a particular
interest in football.
Landing a job with the Buccaneers has
been a dream come true – and it came at
a remarkable moment in the team’s history.
In 2020, the franchise unveiled a new
brand and updated its uniforms. Veteran
quarterback Tom Brady joined the team
roster. And, of course, players and staff
had to navigate COVID-19 restrictions.
From mid-March through late July, Beeck
worked from home. He returned to Florida
as training camp ramped up in preparation
for the NFL season.
With Brady joining the team, there’s been
a heightened sense of excitement, Beeck
says. He’s seen athletes who are revered in
their own right awed by Brady, a surefire
Hall of Fame quarterback with six Super
Bowl rings.
“It’s been pretty cool,” Beeck says.
“It’s like a new excitement, that
excitement of the unknown.”
By Laurie Bartolotta,
marketing content specialist at Cal U
FA L L 2 0 2 0
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
25
HELPING
OTHERS THRIVE
A
lexia Doumbouya ’05 is passionate
about giving others a hand.
STATE
PARKS
STEWARD
A
s more people enjoyed outdoor activities amid the
coronavirus pandemic, locations like Linn Run State Park
in Westmoreland County, Pa., were busier than ever during
spring, summer and fall 2020.
Which means Corey Snyder has rarely been busier. Or happier.
The director of the Linn Run State Park Complex – which also
includes the nearby Laurel Summit and Laurel Mountain state parks
– began his job in June. He graduated from Cal U in 2002 with his
bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation management and in
2004 with a master’s degree in geography.
Snyder spent five years as manager of the Memorial Lake State
Park Complex in Lebanon County, and three years as manager
of Tyler State Park. The U.S. Army veteran served with the
infantry from 2006 to 2010, including a deployment to Iraq
in 2008-2009.
Now Snyder oversees 612 acres of state park at Linn Run,
493 at Laurel Mountain and six at Laurel Summit.
“My role is to provide for the safety of our patrons as much
as we look after the natural resources,” he says.
“Park attendance in the commonwealth this year was way,
way up, because we were open when many things were
closed or canceled. We’ve had visitors come in droves, and it
has been a positive to take out of the (pandemic) situation that
more people are experiencing the beauty of our state parks.”
There have been challenges, but Snyder embraced those, too, with a
small but ambitious paid staff and a crew of volunteers, all of whom
are essential to park operations.
“The impact from more visitors has been a challenge – for instance,
we had to clean more often – but that’s what we’re here for,” he
says. “Our patrons have been very understanding, and it has been
a team effort all the way around.
Cal U REVIEW
“People often ask how much it costs to get into state parks, and the
answer is, it’s absolutely free. It’s a wonderful natural resource for
everyone to enjoy."
24
By Wendy Mackall, communications director at Cal U
As a student at Cal U, Doumbouya
studied international business and
economics, with a minor in leadership.
“I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with it
then, but I always knew I wanted to help
people,” she says.
Since then, she’s found multiple ways of
doing just that.
Today, she’s a busy mother of two
who runs two businesses and helps
her husband administer a third. She
coordinates community outreach to
women entrepreneurs and cohosts The
Legacy Podcast Philly, a project that
engages entrepreneurs and other leaders in
discussions about business, issues faced by
the African American community and faith.
After spending 12 years in corporate
executive leadership and administrative
roles, Doumbouya founded Milestone Pros
LLC, a Philadelphia-based “professional
evolution agency,” in 2017. As CEO, she
connects small businesses with coaching,
training and other resources.
My biggest goal is to see
all the different women
in a diverse way be able
to share resources,
share services and help
each other grow.”
She and her team help entrepreneurs
identify opportunities to grow, and
she relishes those moments when
her clients say, “Oh, gosh, I didn’t even
think about that.”
In fact, even in the midst of the pandemic,
she saw opportunities for her clients
to develop affordable virtual customer
support infrastructure.
As she was researching new business
opportunities for a client, Doumbouya
discovered Walker’s Legacy, an organization
that promotes the career advancement, skill
sets and networks of multicultural women
in business and women entrepreneurs.
A LE X I A
DOUMBOU YA ’05
Impressed, she reached out to volunteer.
The organization, instead, asked her to take
on a more substantial role.
In March, she became the Philadelphia city
director for Walker’s Legacy, coordinating
the organization’s outreach efforts at the
local level.
Doumbouya is finding other ways to help
women, too, including the recent launch of
Cocobump.com, an initiative that helps to
reduce racial disparities in maternal health.
“My biggest goal is to see all the different
women in a diverse way be able to share
resources, share services and help each
other grow.”
HIGHLIGHT REELS
IN TAMPA BAY
P
rofessional football is action-packed,
and it’s Daniel Beeck’s job to catch
it all.
The 2019 graduate is a video producer for
the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
His job includes shooting video and putting
together highlight reels, game-day trailers
and other segments that are used on the
Buccaneers’ social media platforms and
website. He uses video to tell players’
stories, giving fans a chance to get to know
the athletes beyond the field.
“Storytelling plays into every facet of what I
do,” says the former communication studies
major. “And I owe a lot of my storytelling
ability to the foundational building blocks
that I was able to gather at Cal U.”
As a student, Beeck took on roles with
campus radio station WCAL, CUTV and
the Cal Times student newspaper.
Although he wasn’t entirely sure what he
wanted to do after graduation, he knew
that he wanted to work for a professional
sports franchise. He had a particular
interest in football.
Landing a job with the Buccaneers has
been a dream come true – and it came at
a remarkable moment in the team’s history.
In 2020, the franchise unveiled a new
brand and updated its uniforms. Veteran
quarterback Tom Brady joined the team
roster. And, of course, players and staff
had to navigate COVID-19 restrictions.
From mid-March through late July, Beeck
worked from home. He returned to Florida
as training camp ramped up in preparation
for the NFL season.
With Brady joining the team, there’s been
a heightened sense of excitement, Beeck
says. He’s seen athletes who are revered in
their own right awed by Brady, a surefire
Hall of Fame quarterback with six Super
Bowl rings.
“It’s been pretty cool,” Beeck says.
“It’s like a new excitement, that
excitement of the unknown.”
By Laurie Bartolotta,
marketing content specialist at Cal U
FA L L 2 0 2 0
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
25
SPORTS ROUNDUP
MORE ON THE FLOOR
The Vulcans basketball and volleyball teams will have a new look underfoot
when they return to home action.
Awards
The floor of the Convocation Center arena has been refinished and its
logos updated. When the facility reopens, fans will see the Vulcans Athletics
logo at midcourt, the Cal U and Vulcans wordmarks at multiple locations
on the floor, and a customized PSAC logo inside the free-throw line.
THREE
“As an NCAA Division II program, we’ve always felt very fortunate to have the
opportunity to play in a first-class facility like the Convocation Center,” said head
women’s basketball coach Jess Strom.
“Our student-athletes can’t wait to see the new court firsthand and get back
out there to represent Cal U.”
CAP OFF CAREER
The Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference voted in July to suspend all athletic
events and championships through the fall semester in response to the COVID-19
pandemic. Plans for the spring semester were uncertain at press time.
R
yan Smith ’20 collected a trio of awards to close one of the
most decorated careers in the Vulcan golf program’s history.
He became the first men’s golfer in recent years to receive
All-PSAC First-Team status three time in his career, and he was
chosen for the PING all-region team for a third consecutive year.
This is the first time the floor and logos have been refreshed since the Convocation
Center opened with a basketball doubleheader in December 2011.
Smith also was tapped for the CoSIDA Academic All-District Team
last spring after being named the 2018 PSAC Champion Scholar.
After spending the summer at Caves Valley Golf Club, near
Baltimore, Md., Smith is an assistant at Old Memorial Golf Club
in Tampa, Fla.
VULCANS IN THE NFL
Former Vulcans Erik Harris
’13 and C.J. Goodwin are
National Football League
playmakers this season.
Harris, the Las Vegas
Raiders’ starting free
safety in the opening
five weeks of the season,
was chosen as a team
captain after a breakout
2019 campaign.
He previously played for
the New Orleans Saints
after spending three
years with the Hamilton
Tiger-Cats of the CFL.
With the Vulcans, Harris was a
three-year starting defensive back.
He helped the program qualify for
the NCAA playoffs in each of his four
seasons, from 2008-2011.
Goodwin continues to be a mainstay on
special teams for the Dallas Cowboys
after leading in special-teams tackles
last season.
In 2017, he became the first Cal U player
to appear in a Super Bowl, as a member
of the Atlanta Falcons.
Goodwin played in every game for
the Vulcans in 2013, his only year
with the program.
FOOTBALL LINEMAN AMONG THE BEST
Senior offensive lineman Eric Hudanick was named a semifinalist
for the 2020 William V. Campbell Trophy, presented by the National
Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame.
Open to collegiate players at all NCAA and NAIA levels, the trophy
recognizes a player as the best football scholar-athlete in the nation.
CAL U REVIEW
Hudanick was one of 20 semifinalists from NCAA Division II. He has
started 32 games in his career, including all 22 games over the last
two seasons at right tackle.
26
Nominees for the award must be in their final year of eligibility
and have at least a cumulative GPA of 3.2. The committee
nominates only those who are significant contributors to their
team and demonstrate leadership and citizenship.
FUNDRAISER HITS THE MARK
Thanks to nearly 350 generous donors
– and the power of crowdfunding
and social media – Cal U’s third annual
Athletics Day of Giving raised more
than $42,000 for athletics scholarships.
Messages from coaches and players
reached alumni, friends and parents
across the country. Many athletics
programs met or surpassed their goals.
“Everyone played a role in the success
of the campaign,” says Randi Minerva,
manager of annual giving programs.
“This was a true team effort.”
Proceeds from the Day of Giving
provide scholarship support for
Vulcans student-athletes. For more
ways to give, visit calu.edu/giving.
$42,000+ RAISED
FOR ATHLETICS SCHOLARSHIPS
SCHOLARS
SCORE HONORS
Cal U student-athletes and
Vulcans athletic teams continue
to earn academic awards,
despite the pivot to remote
learning last spring.
Across all sports, 253 studentathletes maintained at least a 3.0
grade-point average for the Spring
2020 semester and were named to
the Athletic Director Honor Roll.
Additionally, 184 student-athletes
were named PSAC ScholarAthletes, which requires a
cumulative 3.25 GPA or higher,
and 66 student-athletes
received the D2ADA Academic
Achievement Award, given to
students with a cumulative
3.50 GPA or higher through
four semesters.
In team awards, Vulcans
swimmers earned CSCAA Scholar
All-America Team honors for the
18th consecutive season. The
men’s and women’s cross country
and track and field teams swept
USTFCCCA All-Academic honors
in the four sports, and women’s
soccer and volleyball received
team academic laurels for the
third consecutive year.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
He led the team with a career-best scoring average of 74.9 strokes
in Fall 2019 before the coronavirus pandemic canceled the Spring
2020 season. Smith ended his career with a scoring average of
75.5 strokes, second-best in recent program history.
27
SPORTS ROUNDUP
MORE ON THE FLOOR
The Vulcans basketball and volleyball teams will have a new look underfoot
when they return to home action.
Awards
The floor of the Convocation Center arena has been refinished and its
logos updated. When the facility reopens, fans will see the Vulcans Athletics
logo at midcourt, the Cal U and Vulcans wordmarks at multiple locations
on the floor, and a customized PSAC logo inside the free-throw line.
THREE
“As an NCAA Division II program, we’ve always felt very fortunate to have the
opportunity to play in a first-class facility like the Convocation Center,” said head
women’s basketball coach Jess Strom.
“Our student-athletes can’t wait to see the new court firsthand and get back
out there to represent Cal U.”
CAP OFF CAREER
The Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference voted in July to suspend all athletic
events and championships through the fall semester in response to the COVID-19
pandemic. Plans for the spring semester were uncertain at press time.
R
yan Smith ’20 collected a trio of awards to close one of the
most decorated careers in the Vulcan golf program’s history.
He became the first men’s golfer in recent years to receive
All-PSAC First-Team status three time in his career, and he was
chosen for the PING all-region team for a third consecutive year.
This is the first time the floor and logos have been refreshed since the Convocation
Center opened with a basketball doubleheader in December 2011.
Smith also was tapped for the CoSIDA Academic All-District Team
last spring after being named the 2018 PSAC Champion Scholar.
After spending the summer at Caves Valley Golf Club, near
Baltimore, Md., Smith is an assistant at Old Memorial Golf Club
in Tampa, Fla.
VULCANS IN THE NFL
Former Vulcans Erik Harris
’13 and C.J. Goodwin are
National Football League
playmakers this season.
Harris, the Las Vegas
Raiders’ starting free
safety in the opening
five weeks of the season,
was chosen as a team
captain after a breakout
2019 campaign.
He previously played for
the New Orleans Saints
after spending three
years with the Hamilton
Tiger-Cats of the CFL.
With the Vulcans, Harris was a
three-year starting defensive back.
He helped the program qualify for
the NCAA playoffs in each of his four
seasons, from 2008-2011.
Goodwin continues to be a mainstay on
special teams for the Dallas Cowboys
after leading in special-teams tackles
last season.
In 2017, he became the first Cal U player
to appear in a Super Bowl, as a member
of the Atlanta Falcons.
Goodwin played in every game for
the Vulcans in 2013, his only year
with the program.
FOOTBALL LINEMAN AMONG THE BEST
Senior offensive lineman Eric Hudanick was named a semifinalist
for the 2020 William V. Campbell Trophy, presented by the National
Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame.
Open to collegiate players at all NCAA and NAIA levels, the trophy
recognizes a player as the best football scholar-athlete in the nation.
CAL U REVIEW
Hudanick was one of 20 semifinalists from NCAA Division II. He has
started 32 games in his career, including all 22 games over the last
two seasons at right tackle.
26
Nominees for the award must be in their final year of eligibility
and have at least a cumulative GPA of 3.2. The committee
nominates only those who are significant contributors to their
team and demonstrate leadership and citizenship.
FUNDRAISER HITS THE MARK
Thanks to nearly 350 generous donors
– and the power of crowdfunding
and social media – Cal U’s third annual
Athletics Day of Giving raised more
than $42,000 for athletics scholarships.
Messages from coaches and players
reached alumni, friends and parents
across the country. Many athletics
programs met or surpassed their goals.
“Everyone played a role in the success
of the campaign,” says Randi Minerva,
manager of annual giving programs.
“This was a true team effort.”
Proceeds from the Day of Giving
provide scholarship support for
Vulcans student-athletes. For more
ways to give, visit calu.edu/giving.
$42,000+ RAISED
FOR ATHLETICS SCHOLARSHIPS
SCHOLARS
SCORE HONORS
Cal U student-athletes and
Vulcans athletic teams continue
to earn academic awards,
despite the pivot to remote
learning last spring.
Across all sports, 253 studentathletes maintained at least a 3.0
grade-point average for the Spring
2020 semester and were named to
the Athletic Director Honor Roll.
Additionally, 184 student-athletes
were named PSAC ScholarAthletes, which requires a
cumulative 3.25 GPA or higher,
and 66 student-athletes
received the D2ADA Academic
Achievement Award, given to
students with a cumulative
3.50 GPA or higher through
four semesters.
In team awards, Vulcans
swimmers earned CSCAA Scholar
All-America Team honors for the
18th consecutive season. The
men’s and women’s cross country
and track and field teams swept
USTFCCCA All-Academic honors
in the four sports, and women’s
soccer and volleyball received
team academic laurels for the
third consecutive year.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
He led the team with a career-best scoring average of 74.9 strokes
in Fall 2019 before the coronavirus pandemic canceled the Spring
2020 season. Smith ended his career with a scoring average of
75.5 strokes, second-best in recent program history.
27
MILESTONES
50s
Andrew “Andy” Skero ’56, a former industrial
arts major, lives in Pittsburgh, Pa
60s
ahead
Thinking
Have you included Cal U in your will or thought
of including the University in your estate plans?
W
hen it comes to making a long-term impact on education at
California University of Pennsylvania, there are many giving
options to choose from.
As part of your estate plan, you can support Cal U through provisions in your
will, an insurance policy, a trust or proceeds from your financial planning.
Whether you want to put your donation to work immediately or design a plan
that provides benefits after you’re gone, you can feel good knowing that you
are helping to shape the future of California and its students.
People often assume that planned gifts are only for the wealthy, but this
could not be further from the truth. In fact, several of California University’s
most generous donors were people just like you — men and women who
wanted to make a difference in the lives of our Cal U students, both now
and well into the future.
What’s in your plan?
If you’ve already included Cal U in your estate plans, we need to hear from you.
CAL U REVIEW
As with any donation, we want to know your intentions, so your gift can be put
to work according to your wishes. We also will talk with you about the best
way to recognize your gift.
28
So how can you know which avenue of support is right for you? To identify
a charitable gift that best meets your family’s needs and supports our
University’s vital mission for years to come, you need a plan – and we’re
here to help.
To learn more about how
to include Cal U in your
estate planning, please
contact the Office of
University Development
and Alumni Relations
at 724-938-5775 or
mauro@calu.edu.
Tom Hopkins ’60
taught mathematics
in Scottsdale, Ariz.,
until he retired in
1995. Although he
added French to his
certification and
taught that language,
he enjoys using the Spanish he learned at
California High School when traveling.
Tom and his wife, Lynda, have visited
seven South American countries.
Larry Morris ’63 is retired from the
automotive industry. He and Joanna Morris
live in Reno, Nev. Larry majored in industrial
arts education and was in Delta Sigma Phi.
Joann Barantovich Carnes ’66 and Dr.
James Carnes live in Lakewood Ranch, Fla.
Joann was Cal State’s 1964 Homecoming
Queen and a member of Delta Zeta.
Beatrice “Bea” Esken-Worton Kuchta ’66 is
president of Tech Boxz, in California, Pa. Bea
studied secondary education at Cal U, where
she was a dorm counselor and a member
of Jazz Club and the Student Pennsylvania
State Education Association. She and
Edward Kuchta live in Pittsburgh, Pa.
David Tanner ’67 and Janet Patterson
Tanner ’67, ’73 are retired and living in
Dauphin, Pa. They have two sons and five
grandchildren. Janet, a former elementary
school teacher, is a certified volunteer
counselor at Morningstar Pregnancy
Services in Harrisburg, Pa. David served for
nine years as a U.S. Navy P-3 pilot before
transferring to the U.S. Air Force Reserve as
a C-130 pilot and senior intelligence officer,
retiring in 1997. He was stationed in the Gulf
of Arabia as air wing intelligence director
during operations Desert Shield and Desert
Storm. Along with this military service,
David taught industrial arts and owned an
architectural consultant firm. He received
the “Who’s Who in America” Lifetime
Achievement Award.
Raymond “Ray” Johnston ’67 and Isabel
Johnston live in Clermont, Fla. He is a retired
green-job developer with Anne Arundel
Workforce Development Corp. Ray is a
former industrial arts major.
The Hon. Alfred B. “Al” Bell ’69 lives
in Greensburg, Pa. He studied political
science at Cal U.
Sue Ann Olsavicky ’67 is the owner of Never
Too Many Stamps, in Goodyear, Ariz. She and
Lt. Col Robert Hicks live in Goodyear. She
studied secondary education, mathematics
at Cal U.
70s
Joseph Laslavic ’70 and Margaret Laslavic
live in Pittsburgh, Pa. He majored in
elementary education and counseling at
Cal U and played on the football team for
four years.
Joe Panarella ’70 and Liz Panarella live
in Frederick, Md. He majored in industrial
arts education at Cal U.
Gary Veltre ’70 and Rebeca Veltre live
in Nineveh, Pa. Gary studied secondary
education at Cal U, where he was a resident
assistant in Johnson Hall and worked in
the Dixon dining hall kitchen.
Joseph Waugh ’71 and Susan Clutter
Waugh ’72, ’76 live in Kernersville, N.C.
Joseph studied Earth science and was a
member of the Student Congress. Susan
studied speech-language pathology.
Paul Rach ’69, ’72 works for the Pennsylvania
Department of Education. He and Janice
Rach live in Monongahela, Pa. Paul studied
social studies education at Cal U and was in
Phi Sigma Pi.
David Huber ’74 is a retired deputy assessor
supervisor. He and Donna Huber live in
Mission Viejo, Calif. David majored in English
at Cal U and was in Glee Club, the choir and
Theta Xi.
Edward “Bud” Finfrock ’73 is a sales engineer
for Ramco Specialties, in Hudson, Ohio. He
and Kim Finfrock live in Uniontown, Ohio.
Bud studied urban recreation at Cal U.
Lynn Robb ’72 and Curt Robb live in Bristow,
Va. Lynn was an education major at Cal U.
Dennis Smiddle ’72
is executive
director of nonprofit
Fans 4 Help (Health,
Environment,
Learning and
Play). A retired
Pennsylvania
childcare health and safety inspector,
Dennis has won Senior Games gold medals
in football and softball competitions in five
consecutive years. He earned his bachelor’s
degree in psychology from Cal U.
.
Charles “Danny” Ross ’73 and Darlene Ross
live in Allison Park, Pa. Danny is a former
elementary education major. At Cal U he
participated in basketball, track and field,
and Student Congress.
Paul Bittner ’77 is a painter for Sampson
Morris Corp., in Monroeville, Pa. He and
Elaine Bittner live in Pittsburgh. Paul studied
secondary education and social studies
at Cal U and was a member and treasurer
of Kappa Phi Kappa fraternity. He also
participated in the college marching band,
the community symphony orchestra and
intramural basketball and softball.
Cathy Corbett Zumpetta ’77 and Dr. Anthony
Zumpetta live in Calvin, Pa. She majored
in social work at Cal U and was in the
band, Social Work/Sociology Club, and
Pi Gamma Mu, along with volunteering
in the Collegiate Center.
80s
Melanie Patterson ’82 is CEO/president of
Broad Innovations LLC, in Belle Vernon, Pa.
She and Robert Patterson ’68 live in Belle
Vernon. Melanie studied elementary
education at Cal U.
IN THE SPIRIT OF JENNIE CARTER
University President Geraldine Jones received the 2020
Jennie A. Carter Award at a virtual ceremony attended
by 75 colleagues, family members and friends. The
annual award honors those who embody the resilient
spirit of Elizabeth ‘Jennie’ Adams Carter, California’s
first African American graduate, Class of 1881. Joining
the event from Hawaii were William Carter, Jennie
Carter’s great-grandson, and his wife Kay, both longtime
supporters of the University. Jeff Jones, Cal U’s first
gentleman, presented the award.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
GIVE TO CAL U
29
MILESTONES
50s
Andrew “Andy” Skero ’56, a former industrial
arts major, lives in Pittsburgh, Pa
60s
ahead
Thinking
Have you included Cal U in your will or thought
of including the University in your estate plans?
W
hen it comes to making a long-term impact on education at
California University of Pennsylvania, there are many giving
options to choose from.
As part of your estate plan, you can support Cal U through provisions in your
will, an insurance policy, a trust or proceeds from your financial planning.
Whether you want to put your donation to work immediately or design a plan
that provides benefits after you’re gone, you can feel good knowing that you
are helping to shape the future of California and its students.
People often assume that planned gifts are only for the wealthy, but this
could not be further from the truth. In fact, several of California University’s
most generous donors were people just like you — men and women who
wanted to make a difference in the lives of our Cal U students, both now
and well into the future.
What’s in your plan?
If you’ve already included Cal U in your estate plans, we need to hear from you.
CAL U REVIEW
As with any donation, we want to know your intentions, so your gift can be put
to work according to your wishes. We also will talk with you about the best
way to recognize your gift.
28
So how can you know which avenue of support is right for you? To identify
a charitable gift that best meets your family’s needs and supports our
University’s vital mission for years to come, you need a plan – and we’re
here to help.
To learn more about how
to include Cal U in your
estate planning, please
contact the Office of
University Development
and Alumni Relations
at 724-938-5775 or
mauro@calu.edu.
Tom Hopkins ’60
taught mathematics
in Scottsdale, Ariz.,
until he retired in
1995. Although he
added French to his
certification and
taught that language,
he enjoys using the Spanish he learned at
California High School when traveling.
Tom and his wife, Lynda, have visited
seven South American countries.
Larry Morris ’63 is retired from the
automotive industry. He and Joanna Morris
live in Reno, Nev. Larry majored in industrial
arts education and was in Delta Sigma Phi.
Joann Barantovich Carnes ’66 and Dr.
James Carnes live in Lakewood Ranch, Fla.
Joann was Cal State’s 1964 Homecoming
Queen and a member of Delta Zeta.
Beatrice “Bea” Esken-Worton Kuchta ’66 is
president of Tech Boxz, in California, Pa. Bea
studied secondary education at Cal U, where
she was a dorm counselor and a member
of Jazz Club and the Student Pennsylvania
State Education Association. She and
Edward Kuchta live in Pittsburgh, Pa.
David Tanner ’67 and Janet Patterson
Tanner ’67, ’73 are retired and living in
Dauphin, Pa. They have two sons and five
grandchildren. Janet, a former elementary
school teacher, is a certified volunteer
counselor at Morningstar Pregnancy
Services in Harrisburg, Pa. David served for
nine years as a U.S. Navy P-3 pilot before
transferring to the U.S. Air Force Reserve as
a C-130 pilot and senior intelligence officer,
retiring in 1997. He was stationed in the Gulf
of Arabia as air wing intelligence director
during operations Desert Shield and Desert
Storm. Along with this military service,
David taught industrial arts and owned an
architectural consultant firm. He received
the “Who’s Who in America” Lifetime
Achievement Award.
Raymond “Ray” Johnston ’67 and Isabel
Johnston live in Clermont, Fla. He is a retired
green-job developer with Anne Arundel
Workforce Development Corp. Ray is a
former industrial arts major.
The Hon. Alfred B. “Al” Bell ’69 lives
in Greensburg, Pa. He studied political
science at Cal U.
Sue Ann Olsavicky ’67 is the owner of Never
Too Many Stamps, in Goodyear, Ariz. She and
Lt. Col Robert Hicks live in Goodyear. She
studied secondary education, mathematics
at Cal U.
70s
Joseph Laslavic ’70 and Margaret Laslavic
live in Pittsburgh, Pa. He majored in
elementary education and counseling at
Cal U and played on the football team for
four years.
Joe Panarella ’70 and Liz Panarella live
in Frederick, Md. He majored in industrial
arts education at Cal U.
Gary Veltre ’70 and Rebeca Veltre live
in Nineveh, Pa. Gary studied secondary
education at Cal U, where he was a resident
assistant in Johnson Hall and worked in
the Dixon dining hall kitchen.
Joseph Waugh ’71 and Susan Clutter
Waugh ’72, ’76 live in Kernersville, N.C.
Joseph studied Earth science and was a
member of the Student Congress. Susan
studied speech-language pathology.
Paul Rach ’69, ’72 works for the Pennsylvania
Department of Education. He and Janice
Rach live in Monongahela, Pa. Paul studied
social studies education at Cal U and was in
Phi Sigma Pi.
David Huber ’74 is a retired deputy assessor
supervisor. He and Donna Huber live in
Mission Viejo, Calif. David majored in English
at Cal U and was in Glee Club, the choir and
Theta Xi.
Edward “Bud” Finfrock ’73 is a sales engineer
for Ramco Specialties, in Hudson, Ohio. He
and Kim Finfrock live in Uniontown, Ohio.
Bud studied urban recreation at Cal U.
Lynn Robb ’72 and Curt Robb live in Bristow,
Va. Lynn was an education major at Cal U.
Dennis Smiddle ’72
is executive
director of nonprofit
Fans 4 Help (Health,
Environment,
Learning and
Play). A retired
Pennsylvania
childcare health and safety inspector,
Dennis has won Senior Games gold medals
in football and softball competitions in five
consecutive years. He earned his bachelor’s
degree in psychology from Cal U.
.
Charles “Danny” Ross ’73 and Darlene Ross
live in Allison Park, Pa. Danny is a former
elementary education major. At Cal U he
participated in basketball, track and field,
and Student Congress.
Paul Bittner ’77 is a painter for Sampson
Morris Corp., in Monroeville, Pa. He and
Elaine Bittner live in Pittsburgh. Paul studied
secondary education and social studies
at Cal U and was a member and treasurer
of Kappa Phi Kappa fraternity. He also
participated in the college marching band,
the community symphony orchestra and
intramural basketball and softball.
Cathy Corbett Zumpetta ’77 and Dr. Anthony
Zumpetta live in Calvin, Pa. She majored
in social work at Cal U and was in the
band, Social Work/Sociology Club, and
Pi Gamma Mu, along with volunteering
in the Collegiate Center.
80s
Melanie Patterson ’82 is CEO/president of
Broad Innovations LLC, in Belle Vernon, Pa.
She and Robert Patterson ’68 live in Belle
Vernon. Melanie studied elementary
education at Cal U.
IN THE SPIRIT OF JENNIE CARTER
University President Geraldine Jones received the 2020
Jennie A. Carter Award at a virtual ceremony attended
by 75 colleagues, family members and friends. The
annual award honors those who embody the resilient
spirit of Elizabeth ‘Jennie’ Adams Carter, California’s
first African American graduate, Class of 1881. Joining
the event from Hawaii were William Carter, Jennie
Carter’s great-grandson, and his wife Kay, both longtime
supporters of the University. Jeff Jones, Cal U’s first
gentleman, presented the award.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
GIVE TO CAL U
29
Lorene Thornburg ’83 is a litigation
paralegal, legal support manager for the
labor, employment and employee transitions
teams at Charles Schwab & Co. Inc.’s
campus in Lone Tree, Colo. She was a
member of Sigma Kappa sorority.
Melissa Starkes Council ’85, of Pittsburgh,
Pa., teaches second grade at Pittsburgh
Mifflin Elementary School. She majored in
early childhood education, was in the
Young and Gifted Gospel Choir and was
a Kappa Sweetheart.
Derek Clark ’85 is a teacher in the Dearborn
(Mich.) Public Schools. He studied industrial
arts at Cal U.
Paula Tirpak ’86 is a speech-language
pathologist for West Boca Medical Center, in
Boca Raton, Fla. She and Kenneth Tirpak ’85
live in Lake Worth Beach, Fla. Paula studied
speech and language pathology at Cal U
and was in chorus and the Speech and
Hearing Club.
John Bell ’86 is CEO of John P. Bell
Consulting, in Bowie, Md. He and Deitra Bell
live in Bowie. John studied political science
at Cal U, where he participated in football
and fencing.
Gerald “Gerry” Peterson ’86 is founder and
managing principal of Tartan Group LLC. A
commuter student who earned his M.B.A.
through evening classes at Cal U, he and
Karen Peterson live in Murrysville. Pa.
Stephen Woods ’89, of Fairview, Pa., is plant
manager for Erie Forge and Steel Inc. He
studied industrial management,
manufacturing and numerical control at
Cal U. He worked in manufacturing in Erie,
Pa., and Baltimore, Md. He enjoys coaching
youth hockey in his free time.
Janie Walmsley-Wilkerson ’89 is box office
manager at Cal U. She and Jason Wilkerson
live in Rostraver Township, Pa. As a student,
she majored in political science.
CAL U REVIEW
90s
30
Jeff Broadwater ’92, who studied
elementary education at Cal U, is the
owner of Roughcreek Holdings LLC, a
manufacturing company in Frisco, Texas.
Alison Onega ’95 is a teacher from Latrobe,
Pa. She studied elementary and special
education at Cal U.
Sheref Zurga ’95 is a controller for World
Bank Group in Washington, D.C. A resident
of Silver Spring, Md., he studied business
administration at Cal U.
Frank Liu ’95 lives in Taoyuan District,
Taiwan. He studied biology at Cal U.
Catherine Urban Dolfi ’96, an elementary
education major, is supervisor of operations
for Peoples Natural Gas, in Pittsburgh, Pa.
She and Brett Dolfi live in Coal Center, Pa.
Col. Jeffrey McCartney ’96, formerly of
Uniontown, Pa., graduated from the U.S.
Army War College at Carlisle, Pa., with a
master's degree in strategic studies in
June 2020. His next assignment is as
deputy commander with the U.S. Army
Physical Disability Agency, Joint Base
Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
Michael Elphick ’97 is a regional account
manager for Meyn, a global specialist for
poultry processing equipment. He earned his
bachelor’s degree in business administration
at Cal U, where he completed an internship
with Lucent Technologies.
Louise Urban ’98 is senior vice president
of operations for Allegheny Health Network.
A graduate of Cal U’s B.S.N. program, she
was president of both Canonsburg and
Jefferson hospitals.
Jenn Valeriote ’99 and her husband,
Mike Fry, live in Versailles, Ky. She was
a communication studies major at Cal U
and an All-American centerfielder on the
Vulcans’ 1997 and 1998 NCAA Division II
national championship softball teams.
Jenn was also a four-year standout on the
volleyball team.
00s
Marta Allshouse Smith ’00 and Ryan
Smith live in Beaufort, S.C. Marta
studied elementary and special
education at Cal U.
Michelle Senneway ’00, ’04 is the
Pittsburgh area’s lead volunteer for
Pandemic of Love, a mutual-aid
community of volunteers that has
spread across the United States and into
Mexico since its start in March 2020.
Efrain Martinez ’01 is principal of Orozco
Academy in Chicago, Ill. He majored in
Spanish at Cal U and was a member of
the Hispanic Student Association.
Kimberly Krieg ’03 and Keith Krieg live
in Beaufort, S.C. Kimberly majored in
secondary education, English at Cal U
and was in Phi Sigma Pi
IN PRINT
Norman K. Clark ’69 has published his first novel, Into the Endless Mountains, a
mystery/suspense epic set in the mountains of northern Pennsylvania in the 1980s.
Norm is a lawyer and managing partner of an international legal management
consulting firm. A Pittsburgh native, he now lives in Florida.
Mark Hofmann ’02 is the author of Good Mourning!: A Guide to Biting the Big One
… and Dying, Too, a semi-inspirational book of dark comedy. He earned his degree
in creative arts from Cal U and is a reporter and award-winning columnist with the
Uniontown Herald-Standard.
Christopher Kramer ’14 is the author of The Good Things in Life: A Nurse’s Story
of Connection. His book highlights the impact of human connection on his life as a
pediatric nurse, husband, father, son, brother, friend and, stranger still – a human.
He earned his Master of Science in Nursing from Cal U.
Richard A. Ruck, Jr. ’07, ’13 has had his most recent publication, Adaptations to
Police Academy Facilities/Dormitories in a Post Covid-19 Environment, published by
the American Criminal Justice Society in the September 2020 edition of ACJS Today.
He is a professor of criminal justice at East Stroudsburg University and a former
municipal police officer.
TRANSITIONS
Dr. Bruce Barnhart '83, '89, '01 retired
in July 2020 as provost and senior vice
president for Academic Affairs at Cal U.
Bruce joined the Cal U faculty in fall 1984 and taught for 24 years in the athletic
training and physical therapist assistant programs. A certified athletic trainer, he was
the athletic trainer for the 1984 football team, which won the PSAC championship,
and the 2004 women's basketball team, which brought home the NCAA Division II
national championship title. He transitioned to University administration in 2008
and spent four years as associate provost and eight years as Cal U’s chief academic
officer. He and his wife, Mary Jo Barnhart ’84, live in Brownsville, Pa. Succeeding
Bruce as chief academic officer is interim provost Dr. Daniel Engstrom, a former
faculty member in the Department of Applied Engineering and Technology, former
associate dean of the College of Education and Human Services, and associate
provost for Academic Success since 2012.
Joseph Sneddon ’04 is deputy state marshal
for the Maine State Marshal Service. He and
Stacy Sneddon live in Phippsburg, Maine.
He studied criminal justice at Cal U.
Dr. Margaret “Maggie” Hardy Knox ’05
received the Pittsburgh Business Times’
2020 Career Achievement Award at its
annual Women of Influence event.
President and CEO of 84 Lumber, she
also oversees Nemacolin Woodlands
Resort in Farmington, Pa.
Robert Nebel ’05 is a managing partner for
Apex Unlimited Services, in Washington, Pa.
Rob and Ashley Nebel ’07 live in Finleyville,
Pa. Rob majored in business administration
at Cal U and was in Phi Kappa Sigma.
Eric Zeznanski ’06,
who majored
in technology
education at Cal U,
is principal and a
football coach at
Chestnut Ridge High
School in Fishertown,
Pa. He and Lauren Keefer Zeznanski ’06, ’07
live in Osterburg, Pa. They have a son,
Odin Joseph.
David Shallenberger ’07 is the lead
forecaster at National Weather Service
(NWS) Pittsburgh. A certified incident
meteorologist, David has served in the
Pennsylvania National Guard since 2001.
Jess Shumar ’07 and Wesley Shumar ’09
live in Chambersburg, Pa. Jess studied
criminal justice at Cal U and was a member
of the Delta Zeta sorority.
Robert John “R.J.” Thompson ’07 was
a winner at the Graphic Design USA 20th
annual Web Design Awards for his video
project, “Pitt Business Backstory.” R.J. is
associate director of student engagement
in the College of Business Administration
at the University of Pittsburgh. He earned
his bachelor’s degree in graphic design
at Cal U.
Angela Bohus-Diaz ’08 is a teacher in the
Clark County School District, in Laughlin,
Nev. She and James Diaz live in Bullhead
City, Ariz. Angie studied elementary
education at Cal U and was active with
the choir, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the
Cal U Call Center. She also gave tours to
incoming students.
10s
Michael Ulderich ’10, an assistant
professor of technology education at Cal U,
was selected to serve on the Pennsylvania
Science and Technology Standards
Rewrite Committee. Michael also used
his 3D-printing skills to produce personal
protective equipment to distribute during
the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, his
wife, Alyssa Schardong ’11, appeared in a
rendition of Tomorrow, featuring Broadway
star Marisha Wallace, as the theater
industry copes with the pandemic.
Nikki Popielarcheck ’11 has been elected
secretary of the Pennsylvania chapter of
the National Association of Graduate
Enrollment Professionals. She is assistant
director of Graduate Admissions at Cal U.
Britney Vokish Knight ’11 is associate
pastor of spiritual formation at First
Presbyterian Church of the Covenant, in Erie,
Pa. She and Zachary Knight ’14 live in Erie.
Britney majored in psychology at Cal U,
where she was in the Honors College and
Alpha Lambda Delta. She participated in
theater and dance activities and was on
the dance team.
Clyde Mealy ’11, who majored in exercise
science and health promotion at Cal U, lives
with Charlotte Mealy in Rancho Mission
Viejo, Calif.
Edward “Ed” Robbins ’11 is a pharmacist for
Associated Food Stores Inc., in West Valley
City, Utah. He and Stephanie Robbins live in
Sandy, Utah. Ed studied exercise science
and health promotion at Cal U.
Nathaniel Dixon ’12 is the founder and
CEO of Smart Growth Advisors, a business
consulting firm in Pittsburgh, Pa. He majored
in communication studies at Cal U, where
he was in Sigma Tau Gamma, the Alumni
Association Board of Directors, the Public
Relations Student Society of America, and
the Interfraternity Council. Nate lives in
Wexford, Pa.
Donte Jay ’12 and Sara Gould live in
Gainesville, Fla. Donte studied electrical
engineering technology and played football
and rugby at Cal U.
Chris Campus ’13 and Laura Campus
live in White Oak, Pa. Chris majored in
mathematics at Cal U and was a member
of Alpha Lambda Delta, Kappa Kappa Psi,
and the marching, jazz and concert bands.
Fran Del Duca ’13, of Sutersville, Pa., is the
founder and CEO of Brideology International
LLC, an online wedding merchandise
boutique. She studied middle-level education
at Cal U and was a member of the Honors
Program, Future Math Teachers, Student
Pennsylvania State Education Association,
Ballroom and Latin Dance Club, Big Brothers
Big Sisters, Student Honors Advisory Board,
Student Government, Leadership Club and
Photography Club. She also was a Cal U
Peer Mentor.
Michael Meehan ’13 is a teacher in the
Wake County Public School System, in
Apex, N.C. He studied education at Cal U
and now lives in Holly Springs, N.C.,
with his wife, Shelby Price.
U.S. Army Capt. Nicholas Granfield ’14
is commander of the Dakota Troop, 1st
Squadron, 2d Cavalry Regiment, in Vilseck,
Germany. He took part in a virtual change-ofcommand ceremony on April 1, 2020.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
MILESTONES
31
Lorene Thornburg ’83 is a litigation
paralegal, legal support manager for the
labor, employment and employee transitions
teams at Charles Schwab & Co. Inc.’s
campus in Lone Tree, Colo. She was a
member of Sigma Kappa sorority.
Melissa Starkes Council ’85, of Pittsburgh,
Pa., teaches second grade at Pittsburgh
Mifflin Elementary School. She majored in
early childhood education, was in the
Young and Gifted Gospel Choir and was
a Kappa Sweetheart.
Derek Clark ’85 is a teacher in the Dearborn
(Mich.) Public Schools. He studied industrial
arts at Cal U.
Paula Tirpak ’86 is a speech-language
pathologist for West Boca Medical Center, in
Boca Raton, Fla. She and Kenneth Tirpak ’85
live in Lake Worth Beach, Fla. Paula studied
speech and language pathology at Cal U
and was in chorus and the Speech and
Hearing Club.
John Bell ’86 is CEO of John P. Bell
Consulting, in Bowie, Md. He and Deitra Bell
live in Bowie. John studied political science
at Cal U, where he participated in football
and fencing.
Gerald “Gerry” Peterson ’86 is founder and
managing principal of Tartan Group LLC. A
commuter student who earned his M.B.A.
through evening classes at Cal U, he and
Karen Peterson live in Murrysville. Pa.
Stephen Woods ’89, of Fairview, Pa., is plant
manager for Erie Forge and Steel Inc. He
studied industrial management,
manufacturing and numerical control at
Cal U. He worked in manufacturing in Erie,
Pa., and Baltimore, Md. He enjoys coaching
youth hockey in his free time.
Janie Walmsley-Wilkerson ’89 is box office
manager at Cal U. She and Jason Wilkerson
live in Rostraver Township, Pa. As a student,
she majored in political science.
CAL U REVIEW
90s
30
Jeff Broadwater ’92, who studied
elementary education at Cal U, is the
owner of Roughcreek Holdings LLC, a
manufacturing company in Frisco, Texas.
Alison Onega ’95 is a teacher from Latrobe,
Pa. She studied elementary and special
education at Cal U.
Sheref Zurga ’95 is a controller for World
Bank Group in Washington, D.C. A resident
of Silver Spring, Md., he studied business
administration at Cal U.
Frank Liu ’95 lives in Taoyuan District,
Taiwan. He studied biology at Cal U.
Catherine Urban Dolfi ’96, an elementary
education major, is supervisor of operations
for Peoples Natural Gas, in Pittsburgh, Pa.
She and Brett Dolfi live in Coal Center, Pa.
Col. Jeffrey McCartney ’96, formerly of
Uniontown, Pa., graduated from the U.S.
Army War College at Carlisle, Pa., with a
master's degree in strategic studies in
June 2020. His next assignment is as
deputy commander with the U.S. Army
Physical Disability Agency, Joint Base
Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
Michael Elphick ’97 is a regional account
manager for Meyn, a global specialist for
poultry processing equipment. He earned his
bachelor’s degree in business administration
at Cal U, where he completed an internship
with Lucent Technologies.
Louise Urban ’98 is senior vice president
of operations for Allegheny Health Network.
A graduate of Cal U’s B.S.N. program, she
was president of both Canonsburg and
Jefferson hospitals.
Jenn Valeriote ’99 and her husband,
Mike Fry, live in Versailles, Ky. She was
a communication studies major at Cal U
and an All-American centerfielder on the
Vulcans’ 1997 and 1998 NCAA Division II
national championship softball teams.
Jenn was also a four-year standout on the
volleyball team.
00s
Marta Allshouse Smith ’00 and Ryan
Smith live in Beaufort, S.C. Marta
studied elementary and special
education at Cal U.
Michelle Senneway ’00, ’04 is the
Pittsburgh area’s lead volunteer for
Pandemic of Love, a mutual-aid
community of volunteers that has
spread across the United States and into
Mexico since its start in March 2020.
Efrain Martinez ’01 is principal of Orozco
Academy in Chicago, Ill. He majored in
Spanish at Cal U and was a member of
the Hispanic Student Association.
Kimberly Krieg ’03 and Keith Krieg live
in Beaufort, S.C. Kimberly majored in
secondary education, English at Cal U
and was in Phi Sigma Pi
IN PRINT
Norman K. Clark ’69 has published his first novel, Into the Endless Mountains, a
mystery/suspense epic set in the mountains of northern Pennsylvania in the 1980s.
Norm is a lawyer and managing partner of an international legal management
consulting firm. A Pittsburgh native, he now lives in Florida.
Mark Hofmann ’02 is the author of Good Mourning!: A Guide to Biting the Big One
… and Dying, Too, a semi-inspirational book of dark comedy. He earned his degree
in creative arts from Cal U and is a reporter and award-winning columnist with the
Uniontown Herald-Standard.
Christopher Kramer ’14 is the author of The Good Things in Life: A Nurse’s Story
of Connection. His book highlights the impact of human connection on his life as a
pediatric nurse, husband, father, son, brother, friend and, stranger still – a human.
He earned his Master of Science in Nursing from Cal U.
Richard A. Ruck, Jr. ’07, ’13 has had his most recent publication, Adaptations to
Police Academy Facilities/Dormitories in a Post Covid-19 Environment, published by
the American Criminal Justice Society in the September 2020 edition of ACJS Today.
He is a professor of criminal justice at East Stroudsburg University and a former
municipal police officer.
TRANSITIONS
Dr. Bruce Barnhart '83, '89, '01 retired
in July 2020 as provost and senior vice
president for Academic Affairs at Cal U.
Bruce joined the Cal U faculty in fall 1984 and taught for 24 years in the athletic
training and physical therapist assistant programs. A certified athletic trainer, he was
the athletic trainer for the 1984 football team, which won the PSAC championship,
and the 2004 women's basketball team, which brought home the NCAA Division II
national championship title. He transitioned to University administration in 2008
and spent four years as associate provost and eight years as Cal U’s chief academic
officer. He and his wife, Mary Jo Barnhart ’84, live in Brownsville, Pa. Succeeding
Bruce as chief academic officer is interim provost Dr. Daniel Engstrom, a former
faculty member in the Department of Applied Engineering and Technology, former
associate dean of the College of Education and Human Services, and associate
provost for Academic Success since 2012.
Joseph Sneddon ’04 is deputy state marshal
for the Maine State Marshal Service. He and
Stacy Sneddon live in Phippsburg, Maine.
He studied criminal justice at Cal U.
Dr. Margaret “Maggie” Hardy Knox ’05
received the Pittsburgh Business Times’
2020 Career Achievement Award at its
annual Women of Influence event.
President and CEO of 84 Lumber, she
also oversees Nemacolin Woodlands
Resort in Farmington, Pa.
Robert Nebel ’05 is a managing partner for
Apex Unlimited Services, in Washington, Pa.
Rob and Ashley Nebel ’07 live in Finleyville,
Pa. Rob majored in business administration
at Cal U and was in Phi Kappa Sigma.
Eric Zeznanski ’06,
who majored
in technology
education at Cal U,
is principal and a
football coach at
Chestnut Ridge High
School in Fishertown,
Pa. He and Lauren Keefer Zeznanski ’06, ’07
live in Osterburg, Pa. They have a son,
Odin Joseph.
David Shallenberger ’07 is the lead
forecaster at National Weather Service
(NWS) Pittsburgh. A certified incident
meteorologist, David has served in the
Pennsylvania National Guard since 2001.
Jess Shumar ’07 and Wesley Shumar ’09
live in Chambersburg, Pa. Jess studied
criminal justice at Cal U and was a member
of the Delta Zeta sorority.
Robert John “R.J.” Thompson ’07 was
a winner at the Graphic Design USA 20th
annual Web Design Awards for his video
project, “Pitt Business Backstory.” R.J. is
associate director of student engagement
in the College of Business Administration
at the University of Pittsburgh. He earned
his bachelor’s degree in graphic design
at Cal U.
Angela Bohus-Diaz ’08 is a teacher in the
Clark County School District, in Laughlin,
Nev. She and James Diaz live in Bullhead
City, Ariz. Angie studied elementary
education at Cal U and was active with
the choir, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the
Cal U Call Center. She also gave tours to
incoming students.
10s
Michael Ulderich ’10, an assistant
professor of technology education at Cal U,
was selected to serve on the Pennsylvania
Science and Technology Standards
Rewrite Committee. Michael also used
his 3D-printing skills to produce personal
protective equipment to distribute during
the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, his
wife, Alyssa Schardong ’11, appeared in a
rendition of Tomorrow, featuring Broadway
star Marisha Wallace, as the theater
industry copes with the pandemic.
Nikki Popielarcheck ’11 has been elected
secretary of the Pennsylvania chapter of
the National Association of Graduate
Enrollment Professionals. She is assistant
director of Graduate Admissions at Cal U.
Britney Vokish Knight ’11 is associate
pastor of spiritual formation at First
Presbyterian Church of the Covenant, in Erie,
Pa. She and Zachary Knight ’14 live in Erie.
Britney majored in psychology at Cal U,
where she was in the Honors College and
Alpha Lambda Delta. She participated in
theater and dance activities and was on
the dance team.
Clyde Mealy ’11, who majored in exercise
science and health promotion at Cal U, lives
with Charlotte Mealy in Rancho Mission
Viejo, Calif.
Edward “Ed” Robbins ’11 is a pharmacist for
Associated Food Stores Inc., in West Valley
City, Utah. He and Stephanie Robbins live in
Sandy, Utah. Ed studied exercise science
and health promotion at Cal U.
Nathaniel Dixon ’12 is the founder and
CEO of Smart Growth Advisors, a business
consulting firm in Pittsburgh, Pa. He majored
in communication studies at Cal U, where
he was in Sigma Tau Gamma, the Alumni
Association Board of Directors, the Public
Relations Student Society of America, and
the Interfraternity Council. Nate lives in
Wexford, Pa.
Donte Jay ’12 and Sara Gould live in
Gainesville, Fla. Donte studied electrical
engineering technology and played football
and rugby at Cal U.
Chris Campus ’13 and Laura Campus
live in White Oak, Pa. Chris majored in
mathematics at Cal U and was a member
of Alpha Lambda Delta, Kappa Kappa Psi,
and the marching, jazz and concert bands.
Fran Del Duca ’13, of Sutersville, Pa., is the
founder and CEO of Brideology International
LLC, an online wedding merchandise
boutique. She studied middle-level education
at Cal U and was a member of the Honors
Program, Future Math Teachers, Student
Pennsylvania State Education Association,
Ballroom and Latin Dance Club, Big Brothers
Big Sisters, Student Honors Advisory Board,
Student Government, Leadership Club and
Photography Club. She also was a Cal U
Peer Mentor.
Michael Meehan ’13 is a teacher in the
Wake County Public School System, in
Apex, N.C. He studied education at Cal U
and now lives in Holly Springs, N.C.,
with his wife, Shelby Price.
U.S. Army Capt. Nicholas Granfield ’14
is commander of the Dakota Troop, 1st
Squadron, 2d Cavalry Regiment, in Vilseck,
Germany. He took part in a virtual change-ofcommand ceremony on April 1, 2020.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
MILESTONES
31
Joshua Trout ’13
is the chief executive
officer at Select
Hospital, in Camp
Hill, Pa. After earning
his bachelor’s
degree in sports
management at
Cal U, Joshua earned a master’s degree in
healthcare administration at Ohio University.
He is a member of the American College
of Healthcare Executives and a board
member of the American Heart
Association’s National Post-Acute
Care Writing Committee.
Matt Hagy ’15, ’16 has been the sports
information director since 2018 at Albright
College in Reading, Pa. He earned his
bachelor’s degree in communication
studies and his master’s degree in sport
management at Cal U, where he participated
in marching band, CUTV and WCAL, and
was sports editor of the Cal Times.
Danielle Hayes ’16 is the assistant girls’
volleyball coach at Arnold High School, in
Panama City Beach, Fla. At Cal U she was a
two-time all-region selection; she helped the
Vulcans win the 2014 PSAC championship
and make three appearances in the NCAA
Division II Tournament.
Ryan Kaufman ’17 is a news producer
for WCTV in Tallahassee, Fla. He worked
previously at WTAP in Parkersburg, W.Va.
Ryan majored in liberal arts at Cal U and
was active with CUTV.
Lakelyn Denny ’17, ’18 is lead teacher
at New Directions Partial Hospitalization
Program, in Uniontown, Pa. She earned
her bachelor’s degree in early childhood
education and her master’s degree as a
reading specialist at Cal U, where she was
in Sigma Pi Epsilon Delta, Kappa Delta Pi,
the Council for Exceptional Children,
and the Student Pennsylvania State
Education Association.
CAL U REVIEW
Andrew Cohen ’18 is a school psychologist.
He and Rachel Cohen live in Colorado
Springs, Colo.
32
Avonlea Firda ’18, of Pittsburgh, Pa.,
is the managed care administrator for
the Pharmacy Division of Giant Eagle Inc.
Avonlea holds dual degrees from Cal U:
a B.S. in Science and Technology:
Multidisciplinary Studies with a minor
in sociology, and a B.A. in Social Science
with a minor in biology.
ANNIVERSARIES
BIRTHS
Ted Geibel ’60 and Rosemary Geibel ’59
celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary
in June 2020. Ted taught in the Canonsburg
and Butler school districts before becoming
a registered architect. He then worked for
BHKR in Butler, Pa., and Eckels in New
Castle, Pa. Rosemary taught in the Upper
Saint Clair and Butler school districts before
owning a private preschool. The retired
couple now live at St. Barnabas Retirement
Village in Gibsonia, Pa.
KirkRyan McFarland '13, '14 and Valerie
McFarland welcomed their first child,
daughter BrookLyn Grace McFarland,
on Aug. 29, 2020. She weighed 8
pounds and was 19 inches long.
TROPHY TIME
Josh Famularo ’14, a former equipment manager for Cal U’s club hockey team,
poses with trophies (including the famed Stanley Cup) won this fall by the
Tampa Bay Lightning of the NHL. Josh was in charge of equipment logistics for
the Lightning, coordinating deliveries to Edmonton and Toronto, the Canadian
cities that hosted the National Hockey League playoffs in September. Josh studied
business and marketing at Cal U; his dad, Jim, graduated from Cal U in 1984.
James Doman ’18, who studied criminal
justice at Cal U, is a hazmat technician for
Specialized Professional Services Inc. He
and Jill Doman live in Washington, Pa.
Shaina Hilsey ’18, who studied sport
management at Cal U, was accepted to
Harvard's Graduate School of Education
where she’ll pursue an M.Ed. in Higher
Education. As a student, Shaina was a
member of the Board of Governors for
Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher
Education. In 2018 she was one of 10
college women selected to serve on
the American Association of University
Women’s National Student Advisory
Council. She is a policy analyst for the
office of Postsecondary Education at
the U.S. Department of Education.
Ivy Jackson ’18 and Jevone Norman ’18 live
in Coatesville, Pa. Ivy studied early childhood
education at Cal U and was in the Young and
Gifted Gospel Choir, the Black Student Union,
TRIO, Cal U Women United, Kappa Delta Pi
and the Student Pennsylvania State
Education Association.
Evan Johnson ’18 is manager of quality
assurance at the University of Pittsburgh. He
majored in computer information systems at
Cal U and played in the marching band. Evan
and Jill Johnson live in Washington, Pa.
Andrew Kotlar ’18 is operations manager
at 84 Lumber, in Eighty Four, Pa. He studied
sport management at Cal U.
WEDDINGS
Art Figurski ’63 and Pat Figurski '63
celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary
on Aug. 19, 2020. They were the first married
couple to receive the Scholarship Awards in
their respective fields upon graduation, Pat
in mathematics and Art in industrial arts.
Following their teaching careers, they served
together in occupational ministry and now
live in North Carolina.
Gino Wolfe ’18 and Sue Wolfe live in Oak
Harbor, Wash. A mental health clinician,
Gino majored in sociology at Cal U.
Angie Bohus ’08 and James Diaz were
married on December 31, 2019, in
Henderson, Nev. The couple lives in
Bullhead City, Ariz. Both teach in the
Clark County School District.
Wanda Anderson ’19 is a registered nurse
for Miners Medical Center, in Hastings, Pa.
She and Dick Anderson live in Clymer, Pa.
IN MEMORIAM
20s
Alex Arnold ’20 is an interpretive park ranger
at Gateway National Recreation Area, in
Sandy Hook, N.J. He earned degrees in both
history and parks and recreation at Cal U,
where he was a student member of the
Council of Trustees and a member of
Student Government and the Parks and
Recreation Student Society.
Jake Krause ’20, who majored in biology
at Cal U, lives in Washington, Pa.
Michelle Tirado ’20, a retired U.S. Air Force
lieutenant colonel, is the women veterans
program manager for the New Mexico VA
Health Care System in Albuquerque. She
graduated from Cal U with a Master of
Science in Nursing in Nursing Administration
and Leadership.
Robert Suchy ’69 and Sandy Trona Suchy ’69
celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary
on June 6, 2020. The couple, who have
a daughter, Joelle, live in North Myrtle
Beach, S.C.
ENGAGEMENTS
Robert Luckasevic ’16, ’18 and Shelby
Urbine ’17, ’19 are engaged. The couple
met in 2014 while both were members
of the Cal U Marching Band. They plan
to be married in 2021. Bobby is an
account manager for Rainmaker
Polymers LLC. Shelby is interim
assistant director of recreation at
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.
The Hon. Fred C. Adams Sr. ’48
Wayne Alexander ’74
Sandra Ballentyne ’70
Joseph H. Batterby Sr. ’58
Gloria Kathleen Therese Vagnoni Beck ’61
Elaine C. Bender ’52
Dr. William R. Benedetti,* former dean
and emeritus professor of education
John N. Bente ’86
Bonnie McNab Bertini ’88, ’96
Cindy Bohnak ’96
Andrew Cairns ’70
Harold A. Christopher ’60
Azure Dee Mary Kathleen Comedy ’02
Elaine Costello ’64,
emerita professor of chemistry
Donna J. Cox ’72
Ronald Anthony D’Amico ’76
Helen Ciappa Davis ’63
James W. Derrick ’68
Robert Francis Diehl ’64
Ralph “Rick” DiPiazza ’74
Mary E. Donahoo ’68
Sandra J. Dran ’71
Sandra L. Dunn ’75
David B. Evans ’67
Mary Z. Fabian ’85
Nancy M. Farkos ’79
Howard Fields ’64
Andrew Robert Freeman Jr. ’71
Mark M. Hall ’95
Marie K. Harless ’66
Leo R. Hill ’71
Brenda Jennion ’83
Verteree Cole Johnson ’00
Barry L. Jones ’68
Joseph A. Karpa ’82
Kathleen C. Kelemen ’68
Steven M. Kime,* former maintenance
and grounds supervisor
Sandi K. Kindervater ’79
Jeffrey M. Knudson ’92
Kemp W. Konick ’69
Jamie J. Kudas ’89
Deborah S. Lee ’95
Ronald L. Leech ’77
Gail Bronwyn Lese '83, former trustee
Donna Lincavage ’74, ’78
Steven W. Lutska ’83
Marian Cecilia Lynch ’65
Betsy Mechling ’72
Margaret A. Miller ’60
Linda Schneider Mehlman ’68
Leonard Jonathan Moncheck ’72
Myron M. Myrga Sr. ’62
Mary Elizabeth Parr ’74
Perry Anthony Pinto ’69, ’72
Richard Alan Pulig ’86
Mark “Swifty” Puskarich ’74
Marion Claire Ramage-Saeli ’71, ’74
Joyce Arlene Roscoe ’70
Bonita Lee Rymarchyk ’04
Shirley Shipley ’74
The Rev. Mark J. Skertich ’96
Andrew F. Suchko ’59
Robert L. Sumara ’15
Michael S. Tetteris Sr. ’67
P. Ronald Tarullo,* emeritus professor
of business and economics
Michael T. Twardy ’59
Bernard Tychinski ’77
Richard Tylka ’60
Melvin Ujchick ’63
Suzanne Vacheresse ’59
Henry Vogt ’67
Steven R. Westover ’83
Carol Wagner Williams ’63
Candie Todaro Wood ’86
Dr. Peter H. Wright,* emeritus professor
of technology education
Robert J. Ziegler ’83
Paul Zolak ’69, ’73
Katherine D. Zollars ’49
Ronald Zubaty ’77
*No class year available or on file
FA L L 2 0 2 0
MILESTONES
33
Joshua Trout ’13
is the chief executive
officer at Select
Hospital, in Camp
Hill, Pa. After earning
his bachelor’s
degree in sports
management at
Cal U, Joshua earned a master’s degree in
healthcare administration at Ohio University.
He is a member of the American College
of Healthcare Executives and a board
member of the American Heart
Association’s National Post-Acute
Care Writing Committee.
Matt Hagy ’15, ’16 has been the sports
information director since 2018 at Albright
College in Reading, Pa. He earned his
bachelor’s degree in communication
studies and his master’s degree in sport
management at Cal U, where he participated
in marching band, CUTV and WCAL, and
was sports editor of the Cal Times.
Danielle Hayes ’16 is the assistant girls’
volleyball coach at Arnold High School, in
Panama City Beach, Fla. At Cal U she was a
two-time all-region selection; she helped the
Vulcans win the 2014 PSAC championship
and make three appearances in the NCAA
Division II Tournament.
Ryan Kaufman ’17 is a news producer
for WCTV in Tallahassee, Fla. He worked
previously at WTAP in Parkersburg, W.Va.
Ryan majored in liberal arts at Cal U and
was active with CUTV.
Lakelyn Denny ’17, ’18 is lead teacher
at New Directions Partial Hospitalization
Program, in Uniontown, Pa. She earned
her bachelor’s degree in early childhood
education and her master’s degree as a
reading specialist at Cal U, where she was
in Sigma Pi Epsilon Delta, Kappa Delta Pi,
the Council for Exceptional Children,
and the Student Pennsylvania State
Education Association.
CAL U REVIEW
Andrew Cohen ’18 is a school psychologist.
He and Rachel Cohen live in Colorado
Springs, Colo.
32
Avonlea Firda ’18, of Pittsburgh, Pa.,
is the managed care administrator for
the Pharmacy Division of Giant Eagle Inc.
Avonlea holds dual degrees from Cal U:
a B.S. in Science and Technology:
Multidisciplinary Studies with a minor
in sociology, and a B.A. in Social Science
with a minor in biology.
ANNIVERSARIES
BIRTHS
Ted Geibel ’60 and Rosemary Geibel ’59
celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary
in June 2020. Ted taught in the Canonsburg
and Butler school districts before becoming
a registered architect. He then worked for
BHKR in Butler, Pa., and Eckels in New
Castle, Pa. Rosemary taught in the Upper
Saint Clair and Butler school districts before
owning a private preschool. The retired
couple now live at St. Barnabas Retirement
Village in Gibsonia, Pa.
KirkRyan McFarland '13, '14 and Valerie
McFarland welcomed their first child,
daughter BrookLyn Grace McFarland,
on Aug. 29, 2020. She weighed 8
pounds and was 19 inches long.
TROPHY TIME
Josh Famularo ’14, a former equipment manager for Cal U’s club hockey team,
poses with trophies (including the famed Stanley Cup) won this fall by the
Tampa Bay Lightning of the NHL. Josh was in charge of equipment logistics for
the Lightning, coordinating deliveries to Edmonton and Toronto, the Canadian
cities that hosted the National Hockey League playoffs in September. Josh studied
business and marketing at Cal U; his dad, Jim, graduated from Cal U in 1984.
James Doman ’18, who studied criminal
justice at Cal U, is a hazmat technician for
Specialized Professional Services Inc. He
and Jill Doman live in Washington, Pa.
Shaina Hilsey ’18, who studied sport
management at Cal U, was accepted to
Harvard's Graduate School of Education
where she’ll pursue an M.Ed. in Higher
Education. As a student, Shaina was a
member of the Board of Governors for
Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher
Education. In 2018 she was one of 10
college women selected to serve on
the American Association of University
Women’s National Student Advisory
Council. She is a policy analyst for the
office of Postsecondary Education at
the U.S. Department of Education.
Ivy Jackson ’18 and Jevone Norman ’18 live
in Coatesville, Pa. Ivy studied early childhood
education at Cal U and was in the Young and
Gifted Gospel Choir, the Black Student Union,
TRIO, Cal U Women United, Kappa Delta Pi
and the Student Pennsylvania State
Education Association.
Evan Johnson ’18 is manager of quality
assurance at the University of Pittsburgh. He
majored in computer information systems at
Cal U and played in the marching band. Evan
and Jill Johnson live in Washington, Pa.
Andrew Kotlar ’18 is operations manager
at 84 Lumber, in Eighty Four, Pa. He studied
sport management at Cal U.
WEDDINGS
Art Figurski ’63 and Pat Figurski '63
celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary
on Aug. 19, 2020. They were the first married
couple to receive the Scholarship Awards in
their respective fields upon graduation, Pat
in mathematics and Art in industrial arts.
Following their teaching careers, they served
together in occupational ministry and now
live in North Carolina.
Gino Wolfe ’18 and Sue Wolfe live in Oak
Harbor, Wash. A mental health clinician,
Gino majored in sociology at Cal U.
Angie Bohus ’08 and James Diaz were
married on December 31, 2019, in
Henderson, Nev. The couple lives in
Bullhead City, Ariz. Both teach in the
Clark County School District.
Wanda Anderson ’19 is a registered nurse
for Miners Medical Center, in Hastings, Pa.
She and Dick Anderson live in Clymer, Pa.
IN MEMORIAM
20s
Alex Arnold ’20 is an interpretive park ranger
at Gateway National Recreation Area, in
Sandy Hook, N.J. He earned degrees in both
history and parks and recreation at Cal U,
where he was a student member of the
Council of Trustees and a member of
Student Government and the Parks and
Recreation Student Society.
Jake Krause ’20, who majored in biology
at Cal U, lives in Washington, Pa.
Michelle Tirado ’20, a retired U.S. Air Force
lieutenant colonel, is the women veterans
program manager for the New Mexico VA
Health Care System in Albuquerque. She
graduated from Cal U with a Master of
Science in Nursing in Nursing Administration
and Leadership.
Robert Suchy ’69 and Sandy Trona Suchy ’69
celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary
on June 6, 2020. The couple, who have
a daughter, Joelle, live in North Myrtle
Beach, S.C.
ENGAGEMENTS
Robert Luckasevic ’16, ’18 and Shelby
Urbine ’17, ’19 are engaged. The couple
met in 2014 while both were members
of the Cal U Marching Band. They plan
to be married in 2021. Bobby is an
account manager for Rainmaker
Polymers LLC. Shelby is interim
assistant director of recreation at
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.
The Hon. Fred C. Adams Sr. ’48
Wayne Alexander ’74
Sandra Ballentyne ’70
Joseph H. Batterby Sr. ’58
Gloria Kathleen Therese Vagnoni Beck ’61
Elaine C. Bender ’52
Dr. William R. Benedetti,* former dean
and emeritus professor of education
John N. Bente ’86
Bonnie McNab Bertini ’88, ’96
Cindy Bohnak ’96
Andrew Cairns ’70
Harold A. Christopher ’60
Azure Dee Mary Kathleen Comedy ’02
Elaine Costello ’64,
emerita professor of chemistry
Donna J. Cox ’72
Ronald Anthony D’Amico ’76
Helen Ciappa Davis ’63
James W. Derrick ’68
Robert Francis Diehl ’64
Ralph “Rick” DiPiazza ’74
Mary E. Donahoo ’68
Sandra J. Dran ’71
Sandra L. Dunn ’75
David B. Evans ’67
Mary Z. Fabian ’85
Nancy M. Farkos ’79
Howard Fields ’64
Andrew Robert Freeman Jr. ’71
Mark M. Hall ’95
Marie K. Harless ’66
Leo R. Hill ’71
Brenda Jennion ’83
Verteree Cole Johnson ’00
Barry L. Jones ’68
Joseph A. Karpa ’82
Kathleen C. Kelemen ’68
Steven M. Kime,* former maintenance
and grounds supervisor
Sandi K. Kindervater ’79
Jeffrey M. Knudson ’92
Kemp W. Konick ’69
Jamie J. Kudas ’89
Deborah S. Lee ’95
Ronald L. Leech ’77
Gail Bronwyn Lese '83, former trustee
Donna Lincavage ’74, ’78
Steven W. Lutska ’83
Marian Cecilia Lynch ’65
Betsy Mechling ’72
Margaret A. Miller ’60
Linda Schneider Mehlman ’68
Leonard Jonathan Moncheck ’72
Myron M. Myrga Sr. ’62
Mary Elizabeth Parr ’74
Perry Anthony Pinto ’69, ’72
Richard Alan Pulig ’86
Mark “Swifty” Puskarich ’74
Marion Claire Ramage-Saeli ’71, ’74
Joyce Arlene Roscoe ’70
Bonita Lee Rymarchyk ’04
Shirley Shipley ’74
The Rev. Mark J. Skertich ’96
Andrew F. Suchko ’59
Robert L. Sumara ’15
Michael S. Tetteris Sr. ’67
P. Ronald Tarullo,* emeritus professor
of business and economics
Michael T. Twardy ’59
Bernard Tychinski ’77
Richard Tylka ’60
Melvin Ujchick ’63
Suzanne Vacheresse ’59
Henry Vogt ’67
Steven R. Westover ’83
Carol Wagner Williams ’63
Candie Todaro Wood ’86
Dr. Peter H. Wright,* emeritus professor
of technology education
Robert J. Ziegler ’83
Paul Zolak ’69, ’73
Katherine D. Zollars ’49
Ronald Zubaty ’77
*No class year available or on file
FA L L 2 0 2 0
MILESTONES
33
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NO PRINT, please.
I prefer to read the
Review online only.
KEEP IN TOUCH!
SEND MILESTONES NEWS,
ADDRESS CHANGES OR
YOUR ‘READ ONLINE ONLY’
REQUEST TO:
Office of Alumni Relations
California University of Pennsylvania
250 University Ave., Box 89,
California, PA 15419.
NAME
MAIDEN NAME
CLASS YEAR
EMAIL
square Yes, list my email on the Cal U website.
ADDRESS
Dr. Melanie Blumberg died June 4, 2020, shortly after she
retired from the history department, where she had taught
political science since 2001. She was campus director of the
American Democracy Project and a tireless advocate for civic
and voter engagement.
Mel was the recipient of Cal U's Faculty Professional
Development Merit Award for Research, the Student
Government Community Eagle Award, the President's Gala
Award for Service, the Alumni Association's C.B. Wilson
Distinguished Faculty Award, the President's Commission
on the Status of Women Woman of the Year Award for
Faculty, and the Caryl J. Sheffield Faculty Excellence Award
for Mentoring and Diversity Leadership.
Leo T. Krantz died Sept. 21, 2020, at the age of 80. He was
a former chair and member of the University’s Council of
Trustees, serving two six-year terms from 1999-2012. He
also held leadership roles in PACT, the Pennsylvania
Association of Councils of Trustees.
Leo received the Dixonians Award, one of the Foundation
for California University’s most prestigious honors. It is named
for John N. Dixon, who served on the Board of Trustees in the
school’s early years.
Carolyn Ruth Eberly Blaney ’06 died May 8, 2020. Carolyn was
well known in the Uniontown community for her philanthropic
endeavors. As a past president and trustee of the Eberly Foundation,
and as a trustee of the Eberly Family Charitable Trust, she was
instrumental in providing numerous gifts, including a $2.5 million
gift to Cal U for the Eberly Science and Technology Building,
which opened in 1999.
At the 1996 Spring Commencement she received the
Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, and in 2006 the
“black box” theater in Steele Hall was named the Carolyn
and Gerald Blaney Theatre.
Dr. Richard G. Cavasina died July 6, 2020. He taught for 30
years in the Psychology Department and retired in 2012. Cavasina
participated in many academic and scholastic publications for
university and medical applications, as well as research projects
for inner-city youth.
OCCUPATION
EMPLOYER
SPOUSE'S / PARTNER’S NAME
REMEMBRANCES
CLASS YEAR
Milestones are published as space
and deadlines allow. Please email highquality images to revieweditor@calu.edu
using “Milestones Photo” as the subject
line. Be sure to tell us your name, year
of graduation, University activities or
sports you participated in, and the identity
of everyone in the photo. Please do not
send printouts or low-resolution digital
photos, as they will not reproduce well.
He was the recipient of Cal U's Faculty Professional Development
Merit Award for Service, the Dixonians Award from the Foundation
for Cal U, and the President’s Faculty Award. He was also a
member of Cal U’s Robert M. Steele Society. He discussed his
experience as a liver transplant recipient as a Noss Lecture Series
speaker in 2014.
Dr. Anthony “Tony” Lazzaro ’55 died May 15, 2020. An emeritus
professor and a lifetime honorary member of the Cal Alumni
Board of Directors, he taught chemistry and astronomy for
35 years and was active with the Science Olympiad, which
holds regional competitions at Cal U.
ng things.
zi
a
m
a
o
d
to
r
e
w
o
p
e
You have th
l U opens the
uate programs, Ca
With more than 95 grad
ild
lock your story and bu
Un
t.
en
em
nc
va
ad
er
re
door to ca
your future at Cal U.
In retirement, he was involved with the Association of
Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties and the
Cal-Ed Federal Credit Union. He also served a term on the
Centerville Borough Council.
Start Your Story at calu.edu/graduate
ONLINE READERS:
The Cal U Review is published online at
calu.edu/review. If you prefer to read the
digital magazine ONLY, please let us know!
Email alumni@calu.edu or check this box,
complete the info below and return by mail.
NO PRINT, please.
I prefer to read the
Review online only.
KEEP IN TOUCH!
SEND MILESTONES NEWS,
ADDRESS CHANGES OR
YOUR ‘READ ONLINE ONLY’
REQUEST TO:
Office of Alumni Relations
California University of Pennsylvania
250 University Ave., Box 89,
California, PA 15419.
NAME
MAIDEN NAME
CLASS YEAR
EMAIL
square Yes, list my email on the Cal U website.
ADDRESS
Dr. Melanie Blumberg died June 4, 2020, shortly after she
retired from the history department, where she had taught
political science since 2001. She was campus director of the
American Democracy Project and a tireless advocate for civic
and voter engagement.
Mel was the recipient of Cal U's Faculty Professional
Development Merit Award for Research, the Student
Government Community Eagle Award, the President's Gala
Award for Service, the Alumni Association's C.B. Wilson
Distinguished Faculty Award, the President's Commission
on the Status of Women Woman of the Year Award for
Faculty, and the Caryl J. Sheffield Faculty Excellence Award
for Mentoring and Diversity Leadership.
Leo T. Krantz died Sept. 21, 2020, at the age of 80. He was
a former chair and member of the University’s Council of
Trustees, serving two six-year terms from 1999-2012. He
also held leadership roles in PACT, the Pennsylvania
Association of Councils of Trustees.
Leo received the Dixonians Award, one of the Foundation
for California University’s most prestigious honors. It is named
for John N. Dixon, who served on the Board of Trustees in the
school’s early years.
Carolyn Ruth Eberly Blaney ’06 died May 8, 2020. Carolyn was
well known in the Uniontown community for her philanthropic
endeavors. As a past president and trustee of the Eberly Foundation,
and as a trustee of the Eberly Family Charitable Trust, she was
instrumental in providing numerous gifts, including a $2.5 million
gift to Cal U for the Eberly Science and Technology Building,
which opened in 1999.
At the 1996 Spring Commencement she received the
Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, and in 2006 the
“black box” theater in Steele Hall was named the Carolyn
and Gerald Blaney Theatre.
Dr. Richard G. Cavasina died July 6, 2020. He taught for 30
years in the Psychology Department and retired in 2012. Cavasina
participated in many academic and scholastic publications for
university and medical applications, as well as research projects
for inner-city youth.
OCCUPATION
EMPLOYER
SPOUSE'S / PARTNER’S NAME
REMEMBRANCES
CLASS YEAR
Milestones are published as space
and deadlines allow. Please email highquality images to revieweditor@calu.edu
using “Milestones Photo” as the subject
line. Be sure to tell us your name, year
of graduation, University activities or
sports you participated in, and the identity
of everyone in the photo. Please do not
send printouts or low-resolution digital
photos, as they will not reproduce well.
He was the recipient of Cal U's Faculty Professional Development
Merit Award for Service, the Dixonians Award from the Foundation
for Cal U, and the President’s Faculty Award. He was also a
member of Cal U’s Robert M. Steele Society. He discussed his
experience as a liver transplant recipient as a Noss Lecture Series
speaker in 2014.
Dr. Anthony “Tony” Lazzaro ’55 died May 15, 2020. An emeritus
professor and a lifetime honorary member of the Cal Alumni
Board of Directors, he taught chemistry and astronomy for
35 years and was active with the Science Olympiad, which
holds regional competitions at Cal U.
ng things.
zi
a
m
a
o
d
to
r
e
w
o
p
e
You have th
l U opens the
uate programs, Ca
With more than 95 grad
ild
lock your story and bu
Un
t.
en
em
nc
va
ad
er
re
door to ca
your future at Cal U.
In retirement, he was involved with the Association of
Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties and the
Cal-Ed Federal Credit Union. He also served a term on the
Centerville Borough Council.
Start Your Story at calu.edu/graduate
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U.S. POSTAGE
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PENNSYLVANIA
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SEE THESE STORIES AND MORE AT CALU.EDU/REVIEW
ALL DONE!
Todd Pinkham, a professor in Cal U’s art
department, worked through the summer
and fall semesters to complete a large
mural with the help of the Cal U Art
Club. The artwork covers both sides of
a highway underpass in Fredericktown,
Pa., and serves as a gateway to the
Monongahela River Water Trail and boat
launch. See images from the project
online at calu.edu/review.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
THE WAY
WE WERE
President poised
to retire after a
semester unlike
any other
FROM THE
PRESIDENT
CAL U REVIEW
ON THE COVER
A masked Vulcan sets the tone for campus
as University President Geraldine Jones,
first gentleman Jeff Jones and canine
ambassador Ali stroll across the Quad.
CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA’S MAGAZINE
FALL 2020 • VOL. 49 • NO. 2
The Cal U Review is published twice a year by the Office of Communications
and Marketing and is distributed free. Third-class postage paid at California.
STORY: PAGE 4
CHANCE LLOR
Dr. Daniel Greenstein
It’s hard to say good-bye when our University, and our world, are
facing so many challenges. But I have always planned to depart
on my own schedule. This is the right time for me to begin a new
chapter in my life.
It has been an honor to lead this University as its seventh president.
It has been a privilege to work with so many wise and caring faculty,
staff and administrators. Above all, it has been a joy to watch
generations of students become successful alumni, empowered to
take on the world.
Over more than four decades, I have come to know our University’s
resilience, and I have seen firsthand the countless ways that Cal U
changes lives, including my own. I feel blessed to have played a role
in helping to move our University forward.
Every ending is also a new beginning, so I want to congratulate
Robert “Bob” Thorn, who has been appointed to serve as interim
president once I retire.
Bob joined Cal U in 1993 as director of
financial aid. Since 2010 he has been vice
president for Administration and Finance,
our University’s chief financial officer. He is
a creative and competent administrator who
shares my “students first” philosophy – and no
one knows Cal U’s campus and finances better.
I’m confident that our University will thrive under his leadership.
My last days on campus will be bittersweet. California has been my
school, my workplace and my home. But I am leaving with wonderful
memories – and the confidence that our University has the strength
to rise, boldly and proudly, to meet whatever the future may bring.
I thank you, dear friends, for the faith you have shown in me, and
for your countless contributions to our University. As I’ve said many
times, Cal U is a very special place, and it will always hold a special
place in my heart.
With warmest wishes,
Geraldine M. Jones
PRESIDENT, CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
BOARD OF GOVE RNORS
Cynthia D. Shapira, chair
David M. Maser, vice chair; chair, Student
Success Committee
Samuel H. Smith, vice chair; chair, Audit
and Compliance Committee
Rep. Tim Briggs
Audrey F. Bronson
Nicole Dunlop
Alex Fefolt
Tanya I. Garcia
Donald E. Houser Jr., chair, Governance
and Leadership Committee
Sen. Scott Martin
Marian D. Moskowitz, vice chair, Student
Success Committee
Thomas S. Muller, chair, University
Success Committee
Noe Ortega, Acting Secretary of Education
Rep. Brad Roae
Sen. Judith L. Schwank
Meg Snead, governor’s designee
Stephen L. Washington Jr.
Neil R. Weaver, vice chair, University
Success Committee
Governor Tom Wolf
Janet L. Yeomans
A LOOK INSIDE
CALIFORNIA UNIVE RSIT Y OF PE NNSYLVANIA
Geraldine M. Jones, University President
Dr. Daniel Engstrom, interim provost and vice president for Academic Affairs
Robert Thorn, vice president for Administration and Finance
Dr. Nancy Pinardi, vice president for Student Affairs
Christine Kindl, vice president for Communications and Marketing
Anthony Mauro, vice president for University Development and Alumni Relations
T. David Garcia, vice president for Enrollment Management
COUNCIL OF TRUSTE ES
James T. Davis ’73, chair
Larry Maggi ’79, vice chair
Anthony H. Amadio ’73
Roberta M. Betza
Stephen M. DeFrank ’92
Maria Dovshek, student trustee
Sandra Guthrie ’01
James W. Harris ’80
Sean T. Logue
Barry Niccolai ’93
Justin R. Nwokeji ’05
Dr. Daniel Greenstein, chancellor, ex-officio
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Ashely (Baird) Roth ’10, ’12, president
Shaina Hilsey ’18
Dante Morelli ’02, vice president
Bill Hughes ’02, ’12
Robert Crall ’10, ’12, secretary
Erica McDill ’92
Timothy Camus ’84 , treasurer
Marc Quann ’88
Jesse Hereda ’04, immediate past president
A. Tereasa Rerko ’79
Jeremy Babcock ’99, ’01
Frederick Smith III ’12
Alisha Carter ’06, ’11
Ronald Taylor ’12, ’14
LIFETIME HONOR ARY MEMBERS
Paul Gentile ’62
Michael Napolitano ’68
George Novak ’55
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Geraldine M. (Johns) Jones ’72, ’80
Ryan Barnhart ’08, ’09
John Lorenzi ’15
Anthony Mauro ’92, ’93
Craig Smith
SAI BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jeromy Mackey, undergraduate, president
Amanda Considine, undergraduate,
vice president
Maria Dovshek, undergraduate, treasurer
Jahneek Fant, undergraduate, secretary
Hope Cox ’00, ’01, alumna
Justin DiPerna ’16, alumnus
Marguerite Haldin ’09, ’11, alumna
Sydney Holley, undergraduate
Ryan Jerico ’09, alumnus
Taylor Codric, graduate student
Ashley Roth ’10, ’12, alumna
(Two student seats unfilled)
06
LAB REPORT
Innovation is key to
hands-on learning
08
SHE SAID ‘YES’
Retiring president built
a career by embracing
opportunities
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Geraldine M. Jones ’72, ’80, university president
Anthony Mauro ’92, ’93, vice president for Development and Alumni Relations
Ashley Roth ’10, ’12, president of Alumni Association
CAL U RE VIE W
E DITOR
Christine Kindl
WRITE RS
Wendy Mackall Matt Kifer
Laurie Bartolotta Bruce Wald ’85
PHOTOGR APHE RS
Zach Frailey
Jeff Helsel
Greg Sofranko
PORTRAITS IN
LEADERSHIP
Presidents Hall sketches
the University’s story
16
YOU'RE WELCOME
Space redesigned
with campus visit
experience in mind
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Dr. Nancy Pinardi ’94, ’96, ’98, vice president for Student Affairs/dean of students
Leigh Ann Lincoln, chief financial officer for SAI
Larry Sebek ’90, ’94, associate vice president for Student Affairs
Brenda DePaoli, executive staff assistant for Student Affairs/ SAI Board of Directors assistant
FOUNDATION FOR CALIFORNIA UNIVE RSIT Y
OF PE NNSYLVANIA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Darla R. Holley-Holmes
Bethany Hoag-Salmen’ 05, president
Jeffrey S. James ’07
John A. Lorenzi ’15, vice president
Zeb Jansante ’82, ’91
Alan K. James ’62, secretary
Jeffrey M. Kotula
Paul L. Kania ’87, treasurer
Robert E. Lippencott ’66
Courtney Cochran ’12, ’13
Christopher M. Lisle Jr. (student)
Jean Davis
Reginald A. Long ’81
Nate Dixon ’12
Brian P. Malloy ’11, ’14
Ryan Fisher ’15
Frederick A. Retsch ’62
Therese J. Gass ’77
Harry E. Serene ’65
Chelsea M. Gump ’17, ’18
10
18
INTERN SPOTLIGHT
Internships take new
forms as students
prepare for careers
23
HALL OF FAME
Cal U honors five
standout athletes
12
Campus Clips
20
Alumni News & Events
22
Alumni Awards
24
Alumni Spotlight
26
Sports Roundup
29
Milestones
FA L L 2 0 2 0
I
t’s time to turn the page. On January 29 I’ll retire from California
University, closing a career that spans 46 years.
3
FROM THE
PRESIDENT
CAL U REVIEW
ON THE COVER
A masked Vulcan sets the tone for campus
as University President Geraldine Jones,
first gentleman Jeff Jones and canine
ambassador Ali stroll across the Quad.
CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA’S MAGAZINE
FALL 2020 • VOL. 49 • NO. 2
The Cal U Review is published twice a year by the Office of Communications
and Marketing and is distributed free. Third-class postage paid at California.
STORY: PAGE 4
CHANCE LLOR
Dr. Daniel Greenstein
It’s hard to say good-bye when our University, and our world, are
facing so many challenges. But I have always planned to depart
on my own schedule. This is the right time for me to begin a new
chapter in my life.
It has been an honor to lead this University as its seventh president.
It has been a privilege to work with so many wise and caring faculty,
staff and administrators. Above all, it has been a joy to watch
generations of students become successful alumni, empowered to
take on the world.
Over more than four decades, I have come to know our University’s
resilience, and I have seen firsthand the countless ways that Cal U
changes lives, including my own. I feel blessed to have played a role
in helping to move our University forward.
Every ending is also a new beginning, so I want to congratulate
Robert “Bob” Thorn, who has been appointed to serve as interim
president once I retire.
Bob joined Cal U in 1993 as director of
financial aid. Since 2010 he has been vice
president for Administration and Finance,
our University’s chief financial officer. He is
a creative and competent administrator who
shares my “students first” philosophy – and no
one knows Cal U’s campus and finances better.
I’m confident that our University will thrive under his leadership.
My last days on campus will be bittersweet. California has been my
school, my workplace and my home. But I am leaving with wonderful
memories – and the confidence that our University has the strength
to rise, boldly and proudly, to meet whatever the future may bring.
I thank you, dear friends, for the faith you have shown in me, and
for your countless contributions to our University. As I’ve said many
times, Cal U is a very special place, and it will always hold a special
place in my heart.
With warmest wishes,
Geraldine M. Jones
PRESIDENT, CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
BOARD OF GOVE RNORS
Cynthia D. Shapira, chair
David M. Maser, vice chair; chair, Student
Success Committee
Samuel H. Smith, vice chair; chair, Audit
and Compliance Committee
Rep. Tim Briggs
Audrey F. Bronson
Nicole Dunlop
Alex Fefolt
Tanya I. Garcia
Donald E. Houser Jr., chair, Governance
and Leadership Committee
Sen. Scott Martin
Marian D. Moskowitz, vice chair, Student
Success Committee
Thomas S. Muller, chair, University
Success Committee
Noe Ortega, Acting Secretary of Education
Rep. Brad Roae
Sen. Judith L. Schwank
Meg Snead, governor’s designee
Stephen L. Washington Jr.
Neil R. Weaver, vice chair, University
Success Committee
Governor Tom Wolf
Janet L. Yeomans
A LOOK INSIDE
CALIFORNIA UNIVE RSIT Y OF PE NNSYLVANIA
Geraldine M. Jones, University President
Dr. Daniel Engstrom, interim provost and vice president for Academic Affairs
Robert Thorn, vice president for Administration and Finance
Dr. Nancy Pinardi, vice president for Student Affairs
Christine Kindl, vice president for Communications and Marketing
Anthony Mauro, vice president for University Development and Alumni Relations
T. David Garcia, vice president for Enrollment Management
COUNCIL OF TRUSTE ES
James T. Davis ’73, chair
Larry Maggi ’79, vice chair
Anthony H. Amadio ’73
Roberta M. Betza
Stephen M. DeFrank ’92
Maria Dovshek, student trustee
Sandra Guthrie ’01
James W. Harris ’80
Sean T. Logue
Barry Niccolai ’93
Justin R. Nwokeji ’05
Dr. Daniel Greenstein, chancellor, ex-officio
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Ashely (Baird) Roth ’10, ’12, president
Shaina Hilsey ’18
Dante Morelli ’02, vice president
Bill Hughes ’02, ’12
Robert Crall ’10, ’12, secretary
Erica McDill ’92
Timothy Camus ’84 , treasurer
Marc Quann ’88
Jesse Hereda ’04, immediate past president
A. Tereasa Rerko ’79
Jeremy Babcock ’99, ’01
Frederick Smith III ’12
Alisha Carter ’06, ’11
Ronald Taylor ’12, ’14
LIFETIME HONOR ARY MEMBERS
Paul Gentile ’62
Michael Napolitano ’68
George Novak ’55
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Geraldine M. (Johns) Jones ’72, ’80
Ryan Barnhart ’08, ’09
John Lorenzi ’15
Anthony Mauro ’92, ’93
Craig Smith
SAI BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jeromy Mackey, undergraduate, president
Amanda Considine, undergraduate,
vice president
Maria Dovshek, undergraduate, treasurer
Jahneek Fant, undergraduate, secretary
Hope Cox ’00, ’01, alumna
Justin DiPerna ’16, alumnus
Marguerite Haldin ’09, ’11, alumna
Sydney Holley, undergraduate
Ryan Jerico ’09, alumnus
Taylor Codric, graduate student
Ashley Roth ’10, ’12, alumna
(Two student seats unfilled)
06
LAB REPORT
Innovation is key to
hands-on learning
08
SHE SAID ‘YES’
Retiring president built
a career by embracing
opportunities
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Geraldine M. Jones ’72, ’80, university president
Anthony Mauro ’92, ’93, vice president for Development and Alumni Relations
Ashley Roth ’10, ’12, president of Alumni Association
CAL U RE VIE W
E DITOR
Christine Kindl
WRITE RS
Wendy Mackall Matt Kifer
Laurie Bartolotta Bruce Wald ’85
PHOTOGR APHE RS
Zach Frailey
Jeff Helsel
Greg Sofranko
PORTRAITS IN
LEADERSHIP
Presidents Hall sketches
the University’s story
16
YOU'RE WELCOME
Space redesigned
with campus visit
experience in mind
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS
Dr. Nancy Pinardi ’94, ’96, ’98, vice president for Student Affairs/dean of students
Leigh Ann Lincoln, chief financial officer for SAI
Larry Sebek ’90, ’94, associate vice president for Student Affairs
Brenda DePaoli, executive staff assistant for Student Affairs/ SAI Board of Directors assistant
FOUNDATION FOR CALIFORNIA UNIVE RSIT Y
OF PE NNSYLVANIA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Darla R. Holley-Holmes
Bethany Hoag-Salmen’ 05, president
Jeffrey S. James ’07
John A. Lorenzi ’15, vice president
Zeb Jansante ’82, ’91
Alan K. James ’62, secretary
Jeffrey M. Kotula
Paul L. Kania ’87, treasurer
Robert E. Lippencott ’66
Courtney Cochran ’12, ’13
Christopher M. Lisle Jr. (student)
Jean Davis
Reginald A. Long ’81
Nate Dixon ’12
Brian P. Malloy ’11, ’14
Ryan Fisher ’15
Frederick A. Retsch ’62
Therese J. Gass ’77
Harry E. Serene ’65
Chelsea M. Gump ’17, ’18
10
18
INTERN SPOTLIGHT
Internships take new
forms as students
prepare for careers
23
HALL OF FAME
Cal U honors five
standout athletes
12
Campus Clips
20
Alumni News & Events
22
Alumni Awards
24
Alumni Spotlight
26
Sports Roundup
29
Milestones
FA L L 2 0 2 0
I
t’s time to turn the page. On January 29 I’ll retire from California
University, closing a career that spans 46 years.
3
at a time. When fall classes began, the
University’s overall enrollment had exceeded
last fall’s total.
THE WAY
WE WERE
Pandemic shaped an unprecedented fall semester
C
al U’s campus was quiet. On a sunny
fall morning, a handful of employees
trickled in and out of Dixon Hall.
A pair of students climbed the steps to
Manderino Library. A family eased their car
along Third Street, cellphone propped on the
dashboard, and stopped for a look at the
Herron fitness center.
Everyone – even the bronze Vulcan statue
on the Quad and the bust of philanthropist
Robert Eberly in front of the library – wore
a mask.
The coronavirus changed everything at Cal U,
from classes to campus visits and University
operations. To mitigate risk for students and
employees, the University closed its residence
halls, suspended athletics competition and
shifted to remote operations in March, when
COVID-19 emerged as a significant threat to
public health.
With the safety of the campus community
uppermost in their minds, University
leaders spent countless hours planning a
“responsible reopening” for the fall semester,
only to see case numbers surge throughout
Pennsylvania and across the country in
early summer.
In late July they made the decision to
continue remote operations throughout the
fall semester.
University President Geraldine Jones said the
decision provided “a bit of certainty in these
very uncertain times.”
“The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our
lives – but it cannot stop you from earning
your degree,” she told students. “By staying
apart this fall semester, we are protecting
ourselves and those we care about most,
including our friends, classmates and
mentors on campus.”
Yet despite the stillness on campus,
plenty was going on.
BUILDING VIRTUAL
CONNECTIONS
Throughout the spring and summer, staff in
the Enrollment Management division had
shifted their approach. With on-campus
activities suspended, admissions counselors
began meeting with prospective students
and families on Zoom and Facebook Live.
Faculty members talked with students
during virtual Open House events. Staff
answered questions via texts and chats, and
used their cellphones to lead families on
drive-through campus tours.
Media reports predicted dramatic enrollment
declines at colleges nationwide, but Cal U
continued making connections, one student
“It was truly a team effort,” says T. David
Garcia, vice president for Enrollment
Management.
“So many people, all across campus,
contributed to bringing in a freshman
class with the highest high school gradepoint average in the history of Cal U and
increasing its adult-learner enrollment
through online graduate programs.”
This fall Cal U delivered most classes
through real-time remote learning, where
students meet virtually with their professor
and classmates on a regular schedule, just
as they would on campus. Most learners
logged in from home, but computer
workstations made the library a go-to
spot for those lacking internet access.
As the semester began, hundreds of
faculty completed advanced instruction
in online teaching techniques and the
nuances of D2L/Brightspace, Zoom
and other digital platforms.
Interim Provost Dr. Daniel Engstrom
describes remote learning as “more direct
and engaging” than the type of online
instruction that can be completed on
a student’s own schedule.
“Asynchronous courses are ideal for adult
learners who need to plan their coursework
around a job or family schedule,” he explains.
“But for undergraduates, in particular, remote
learning provides more structure and a
stronger connection with the professor.
“We surveyed students after the spring
semester, when we had to make the sudden
shift to virtual classes. This was the delivery
method that students told us they preferred.”
Hands-on learning continued, too. Simulation
software helped some nursing, anatomy
and engineering technology students build
new skills. Lab kits let science majors
practice research techniques. And creativity
blossomed as students collaborated on
virtual performances and presentations.
Outside of class, Student Affairs staff
made sure there were plenty of opportunities
for students to find support – and to have
some fun. Beginning with Welcome Weekend,
they orchestrated a 30-day series of events
that ran the gamut from trivia contests and
online gaming to Adulting 101, a series
of workshops on topics such as time
management, self-care and personal finances.
“A year ago, who would have envisioned
online tutoring, or a virtual career fair,
or curbside delivery for library books?”
President Jones asked at the fall facultystaff convocation – the first in the
University’s history to be held on Zoom.
UNLOCKING THE FUTURE
Fall classes ended in early December.
Spring 2021 will be another “semester
unlike any other.”
The pandemic’s trajectory is still evolving.
Cal U continues to mitigate risk, even as
leaders cautiously plan for the future.
Concerns about health and safety still
drive decision-making. Innovation and
adaptability remain the order of the day.
When it’s time for students to return, Cal U’s
campus will be ready. Buildings have been
sanitized. Cameras are poised to beam
on-campus lessons to students who prefer
to log in from afar. Desks sit 6 feet apart,
and branded masks are waiting.
Near a hand sanitizer dispenser, a cartoon
image of mascot Blaze peeks from behind a
face covering, reminding everyone to protect
themselves and those around them.
“These are turbulent times,” says President
Jones. “We have learned so much this fall,
and we will put that experience to use. I have
no doubt that in the end, we will emerge
stronger, smarter and more resilient.”
By Christine Kindl
VP for Communications and Marketing
“Within the parameters imposed by COVID19, the essential aspects of college life
continue. Our students are learning what it
means to be resilient, and they are seeing
how professionals in their chosen disciplines
can adjust to changing circumstances.”
WELCOME BACK
As an unprecedented fall semester
began, faculty welcomed and
encouraged students. See a playlist
of their inspirational #CalUTogether
Faculty Welcome messages at
youtube.com/c/CaluEdu/playlists.
4
ourselves and those we care about most, including
our friends, classmates and mentors on campus.”
GER ALDINE JONES, UNIVERSIT Y PRESIDENT
FA L L 2 0 2 0
CAL U REVIEW
By staying apart this fall semester, we are protecting
5
at a time. When fall classes began, the
University’s overall enrollment had exceeded
last fall’s total.
THE WAY
WE WERE
Pandemic shaped an unprecedented fall semester
C
al U’s campus was quiet. On a sunny
fall morning, a handful of employees
trickled in and out of Dixon Hall.
A pair of students climbed the steps to
Manderino Library. A family eased their car
along Third Street, cellphone propped on the
dashboard, and stopped for a look at the
Herron fitness center.
Everyone – even the bronze Vulcan statue
on the Quad and the bust of philanthropist
Robert Eberly in front of the library – wore
a mask.
The coronavirus changed everything at Cal U,
from classes to campus visits and University
operations. To mitigate risk for students and
employees, the University closed its residence
halls, suspended athletics competition and
shifted to remote operations in March, when
COVID-19 emerged as a significant threat to
public health.
With the safety of the campus community
uppermost in their minds, University
leaders spent countless hours planning a
“responsible reopening” for the fall semester,
only to see case numbers surge throughout
Pennsylvania and across the country in
early summer.
In late July they made the decision to
continue remote operations throughout the
fall semester.
University President Geraldine Jones said the
decision provided “a bit of certainty in these
very uncertain times.”
“The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our
lives – but it cannot stop you from earning
your degree,” she told students. “By staying
apart this fall semester, we are protecting
ourselves and those we care about most,
including our friends, classmates and
mentors on campus.”
Yet despite the stillness on campus,
plenty was going on.
BUILDING VIRTUAL
CONNECTIONS
Throughout the spring and summer, staff in
the Enrollment Management division had
shifted their approach. With on-campus
activities suspended, admissions counselors
began meeting with prospective students
and families on Zoom and Facebook Live.
Faculty members talked with students
during virtual Open House events. Staff
answered questions via texts and chats, and
used their cellphones to lead families on
drive-through campus tours.
Media reports predicted dramatic enrollment
declines at colleges nationwide, but Cal U
continued making connections, one student
“It was truly a team effort,” says T. David
Garcia, vice president for Enrollment
Management.
“So many people, all across campus,
contributed to bringing in a freshman
class with the highest high school gradepoint average in the history of Cal U and
increasing its adult-learner enrollment
through online graduate programs.”
This fall Cal U delivered most classes
through real-time remote learning, where
students meet virtually with their professor
and classmates on a regular schedule, just
as they would on campus. Most learners
logged in from home, but computer
workstations made the library a go-to
spot for those lacking internet access.
As the semester began, hundreds of
faculty completed advanced instruction
in online teaching techniques and the
nuances of D2L/Brightspace, Zoom
and other digital platforms.
Interim Provost Dr. Daniel Engstrom
describes remote learning as “more direct
and engaging” than the type of online
instruction that can be completed on
a student’s own schedule.
“Asynchronous courses are ideal for adult
learners who need to plan their coursework
around a job or family schedule,” he explains.
“But for undergraduates, in particular, remote
learning provides more structure and a
stronger connection with the professor.
“We surveyed students after the spring
semester, when we had to make the sudden
shift to virtual classes. This was the delivery
method that students told us they preferred.”
Hands-on learning continued, too. Simulation
software helped some nursing, anatomy
and engineering technology students build
new skills. Lab kits let science majors
practice research techniques. And creativity
blossomed as students collaborated on
virtual performances and presentations.
Outside of class, Student Affairs staff
made sure there were plenty of opportunities
for students to find support – and to have
some fun. Beginning with Welcome Weekend,
they orchestrated a 30-day series of events
that ran the gamut from trivia contests and
online gaming to Adulting 101, a series
of workshops on topics such as time
management, self-care and personal finances.
“A year ago, who would have envisioned
online tutoring, or a virtual career fair,
or curbside delivery for library books?”
President Jones asked at the fall facultystaff convocation – the first in the
University’s history to be held on Zoom.
UNLOCKING THE FUTURE
Fall classes ended in early December.
Spring 2021 will be another “semester
unlike any other.”
The pandemic’s trajectory is still evolving.
Cal U continues to mitigate risk, even as
leaders cautiously plan for the future.
Concerns about health and safety still
drive decision-making. Innovation and
adaptability remain the order of the day.
When it’s time for students to return, Cal U’s
campus will be ready. Buildings have been
sanitized. Cameras are poised to beam
on-campus lessons to students who prefer
to log in from afar. Desks sit 6 feet apart,
and branded masks are waiting.
Near a hand sanitizer dispenser, a cartoon
image of mascot Blaze peeks from behind a
face covering, reminding everyone to protect
themselves and those around them.
“These are turbulent times,” says President
Jones. “We have learned so much this fall,
and we will put that experience to use. I have
no doubt that in the end, we will emerge
stronger, smarter and more resilient.”
By Christine Kindl
VP for Communications and Marketing
“Within the parameters imposed by COVID19, the essential aspects of college life
continue. Our students are learning what it
means to be resilient, and they are seeing
how professionals in their chosen disciplines
can adjust to changing circumstances.”
WELCOME BACK
As an unprecedented fall semester
began, faculty welcomed and
encouraged students. See a playlist
of their inspirational #CalUTogether
Faculty Welcome messages at
youtube.com/c/CaluEdu/playlists.
4
ourselves and those we care about most, including
our friends, classmates and mentors on campus.”
GER ALDINE JONES, UNIVERSIT Y PRESIDENT
FA L L 2 0 2 0
CAL U REVIEW
By staying apart this fall semester, we are protecting
5
IN THE FIELD
Students in certain biology, microbiology, cell
biology and chemistry courses were mailed
kits with tools and materials, so they didn’t
have to worry about gathering supplies.
Outdoor or socially distanced “boot camp”
experiences helped students in specialized
majors meet program requirements. For
example, veterinary technology students
worked with large animals at a designated
farm site.
“I love to actually get to experience what
it’s like to work with an animal instead of
reading a textbook,” student Coco Pahanish
says. “I’m thankful there was a way to make
it work this semester. It’s my favorite.”
Other students completed their lab work
at home.
For his Sedimentation and Stratigraphy
course, Dr. Kyle Fredrick ordered
sedimentary rock kits and microscopes for
students, and he sent them samples of sand
for analysis and reporting.
Students in Dr. Louise Nicholson’s genetics
course gained hands-on experience in DNA
extraction, genetic crosses and artificial
selection, DNA fingerprinting and more, all
without leaving home.
INNOVATION IS KEY TO HANDS-ON LEARNING
L
CAL U REVIEW
ab experiments,” says Cal U
chemistry professor Dr. Kimberly
Woznack, “are some of the most
fun parts of science courses.”
6
and best practices in online teaching.
A proactive approach made sure they
remained both fun and educational, even while
Cal U’s labs and classrooms were closed in
response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
At least one faculty member from each
department that would include a science
lab received advanced training in how
to design hands-on experiments for an
online environment. That group then
served as teacher-mentors for their
Cal U colleagues.
“We’ve been very proactive in identifying
the educational resources both faculty
and students needed this fall,” says
Dr. Brenda Fredette, dean of the Eberly
College of Science and Technology.
Professors learned “how to build the lab
experience in a meaningful way, so that
students are thinking about what they’re
doing and engaging with the concepts,”
Fredette says.
That included professional development
for faculty – already experts in their fields –
that focused on instructional design
“Follow-up activities give students the
opportunity to use what they’ve learned
to demonstrate their knowledge.”
In Human Anatomy, real-time interactions
with professors Dr. Brian Paulson and
Dr. Jesse Eiben guided students through the
structure of human body systems. Simulation
software allowed students to perform
“dissections” in a virtual environment.
We’ve been very proactive in identifying
the educational resources both faculty
and students needed this fall.”
DR . BRENDA FREDE T TE
DE A N OF T HE EBERLY C OL L E GE OF SCIENCE A ND T E CHNOL OG Y
INDUSTRY SOFTWARE
In the mechatronics engineering technology
program, faculty converted hands-on
sessions to simulations using industryrecognized software.
“Festo is an industrial equipment
manufacturer and also a vendor for the
lab equipment we have at Cal U,” explains
program coordinator Dr. Jennifer Wilburn.
“The simulation packages are made to
supplement that hardware and teach the
same principles.”
Mechatronics students also used
software from Tooling U-SME, which
produces certifications and content for
the manufacturing industry.
In chemistry, Dr. Matthew Price created
videos of experiments for his junior-level
organic chemistry course. Students used
an electronic “notebook” to organize
experiment reports, and small groups met
in Zoom breakout rooms to review concepts
and make calculations.
Woznack’s first-year chemistry students
learned about the relationship between
pressure and volume of a gas sample
using a simulation that let them manipulate
variables such as temperature and
sample size.
Still other professors reached out to
professional organizations to develop
resources.
Dr. Carol Bocetti, a wildlife biologist in
the Department of Biology, Geology and
Environmental Sciences, began collaborating
with The Wildlife Society’s College and
University Wildlife Education Working Group
on best practices for remote learning.
She also worked with colleagues at the
U.S. Forest Service, the Pennsylvania Game
Commission and two wildlife refuges to create
videos of hands-on techniques used to study
pine martens, box turtles and black bears.
The positive side to remote learning, Bocetti
says, is that students can see “a wider variety
of organisms and habitats” as they watch a
number of professional field biologists put
field techniques into practice.
Wilburn agreed that technology can open
doors to new learning opportunities.
“We have a finite amount of equipment in
our lab,” she says, “but if you’re working on a
simulation, everyone can work independently
and spend more time learning some of the
processes. We can use Zoom breakout rooms
for the teamwork experience that industry
looks for.”
By Wendy Mackall, communications director at Cal U
FA L L 2 0 2 0
Under the watchful eyes of program director
and veterinarian Dr. Nancy Pugh and vet
tech coordinator Kelly Gustine, students
spent several days at the Washington
County location. They practiced performing
essential skills like physical examinations,
blood draws and injections.
7
IN THE FIELD
Students in certain biology, microbiology, cell
biology and chemistry courses were mailed
kits with tools and materials, so they didn’t
have to worry about gathering supplies.
Outdoor or socially distanced “boot camp”
experiences helped students in specialized
majors meet program requirements. For
example, veterinary technology students
worked with large animals at a designated
farm site.
“I love to actually get to experience what
it’s like to work with an animal instead of
reading a textbook,” student Coco Pahanish
says. “I’m thankful there was a way to make
it work this semester. It’s my favorite.”
Other students completed their lab work
at home.
For his Sedimentation and Stratigraphy
course, Dr. Kyle Fredrick ordered
sedimentary rock kits and microscopes for
students, and he sent them samples of sand
for analysis and reporting.
Students in Dr. Louise Nicholson’s genetics
course gained hands-on experience in DNA
extraction, genetic crosses and artificial
selection, DNA fingerprinting and more, all
without leaving home.
INNOVATION IS KEY TO HANDS-ON LEARNING
L
CAL U REVIEW
ab experiments,” says Cal U
chemistry professor Dr. Kimberly
Woznack, “are some of the most
fun parts of science courses.”
6
and best practices in online teaching.
A proactive approach made sure they
remained both fun and educational, even while
Cal U’s labs and classrooms were closed in
response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
At least one faculty member from each
department that would include a science
lab received advanced training in how
to design hands-on experiments for an
online environment. That group then
served as teacher-mentors for their
Cal U colleagues.
“We’ve been very proactive in identifying
the educational resources both faculty
and students needed this fall,” says
Dr. Brenda Fredette, dean of the Eberly
College of Science and Technology.
Professors learned “how to build the lab
experience in a meaningful way, so that
students are thinking about what they’re
doing and engaging with the concepts,”
Fredette says.
That included professional development
for faculty – already experts in their fields –
that focused on instructional design
“Follow-up activities give students the
opportunity to use what they’ve learned
to demonstrate their knowledge.”
In Human Anatomy, real-time interactions
with professors Dr. Brian Paulson and
Dr. Jesse Eiben guided students through the
structure of human body systems. Simulation
software allowed students to perform
“dissections” in a virtual environment.
We’ve been very proactive in identifying
the educational resources both faculty
and students needed this fall.”
DR . BRENDA FREDE T TE
DE A N OF T HE EBERLY C OL L E GE OF SCIENCE A ND T E CHNOL OG Y
INDUSTRY SOFTWARE
In the mechatronics engineering technology
program, faculty converted hands-on
sessions to simulations using industryrecognized software.
“Festo is an industrial equipment
manufacturer and also a vendor for the
lab equipment we have at Cal U,” explains
program coordinator Dr. Jennifer Wilburn.
“The simulation packages are made to
supplement that hardware and teach the
same principles.”
Mechatronics students also used
software from Tooling U-SME, which
produces certifications and content for
the manufacturing industry.
In chemistry, Dr. Matthew Price created
videos of experiments for his junior-level
organic chemistry course. Students used
an electronic “notebook” to organize
experiment reports, and small groups met
in Zoom breakout rooms to review concepts
and make calculations.
Woznack’s first-year chemistry students
learned about the relationship between
pressure and volume of a gas sample
using a simulation that let them manipulate
variables such as temperature and
sample size.
Still other professors reached out to
professional organizations to develop
resources.
Dr. Carol Bocetti, a wildlife biologist in
the Department of Biology, Geology and
Environmental Sciences, began collaborating
with The Wildlife Society’s College and
University Wildlife Education Working Group
on best practices for remote learning.
She also worked with colleagues at the
U.S. Forest Service, the Pennsylvania Game
Commission and two wildlife refuges to create
videos of hands-on techniques used to study
pine martens, box turtles and black bears.
The positive side to remote learning, Bocetti
says, is that students can see “a wider variety
of organisms and habitats” as they watch a
number of professional field biologists put
field techniques into practice.
Wilburn agreed that technology can open
doors to new learning opportunities.
“We have a finite amount of equipment in
our lab,” she says, “but if you’re working on a
simulation, everyone can work independently
and spend more time learning some of the
processes. We can use Zoom breakout rooms
for the teamwork experience that industry
looks for.”
By Wendy Mackall, communications director at Cal U
FA L L 2 0 2 0
Under the watchful eyes of program director
and veterinarian Dr. Nancy Pugh and vet
tech coordinator Kelly Gustine, students
spent several days at the Washington
County location. They practiced performing
essential skills like physical examinations,
blood draws and injections.
7
Retiring president built a career
by embracing opportunities
U
niversity President Geraldine Jones
retires from Cal U in January,
ending a career that took her from
the classroom to the President’s Office.
As Miss California, she was invited to “any
and all” events, and she immersed herself in
college life. The campus quickly became her
second home.
That was a not the future she envisioned
while commuting from Brownsville to “Cal
State” as a first-generation college student.
It was not the goal she aspired to when she
joined California’s faculty.
She especially loved student teaching –
except, perhaps, for an awkward moment
when her supervising teacher, the formidable
Merrell Holman ’42, arrived without warning
and found a nervous Jones tugging down
a hemline that barely met the dress code.
But Jones was determined to say “yes”
to every opportunity. And time after time,
that decision made all the difference.
“This University changes lives,” she says.
“It certainly changed mine.”
CAL U REVIEW
My goal was always to
leave the University
a little better than
I found it.”
8
Teaching
and Mentoring
An early turning point came in her sophomore
year, when California’s dean of women,
Maetroy Walker, invited Jones to appear in
the Miss California State College pageant.
Although an African American student had
never won the competition, Jones signed up.
She sang the Burt Bacharach hit “What the
World Needs Now Is Love” in the talent
portion of the show. She walked away
with the campus title and won the talent
competition at the state pageant in Harrisburg.
“That was life-changing for me,” Jones recalls.
“I’ll never forget that dress!” Jones says
with a laugh.
Shortly before graduation, Jones stopped
at the Albert Gallatin School District office to
pick up a job application. The superintendent
asked her to interview on the spot. She said
yes, and landed her first full-time position.
“I loved teaching school,” she recalls.
“I thought I’d retire from that job.”
But two years later, opportunity knocked
again. She was offered a grant-funded
position at Cal U.
“I was about to get married. I had a full-time
teaching job, and this was a temporary
position in student support services. I talked
to my father, and he said, ‘You’re young. Now
is the time to go for the opportunity.’ I thought
about it, and I said yes.”
“I guess I looked young,” she says. “There
were only a handful of women on the faculty
and an even smaller handful of minority
faculty. … For some people, it was new and
different to see me in that role.”
The student support program thrived, and
Jones enjoyed counseling students who, like
her, were the first in their families to attend
college. Four years later she was asked to
direct California’s Upward Bound program,
which prepares high school students for
college success.
Again, she said yes. She held that position for
20 years and obtained $3.9 million in federal
grants. For 11 of those years she led the
Academic Development Services Department.
As department chair, Jones worked closely
with Dr. Stephen A. Pavlak ’63, dean of the
College of Education and Human Services.
When Pavlak’s work took him to the State
System office in Harrisburg, she agreed to
shift from faculty to administration.
More than once Jones found aid for needy
students on the verge of dropping out.
“I remember one young man who walked
across the stage at graduation and gave me a
big hug,” she says. An extra $200 had made it
possible for him to finish his degree.
“I have been truly, truly blessed. And I’ve got
to give it back.”
Leading
through change
After stints in interim roles, Jones was
appointed dean of the College. Some
difficult conversations ensued.
Eight years into her role as dean, Jones was
called to the President’s Office. The provost’s
seat was vacant, and she thought she’d be
asked to serve on the search committee.
Instead, Dr. Angelo Armenti Jr. tapped her to
become Cal U’s chief academic officer.
“Some of those faculty had been my
professors when I was a student. Some
had been my colleagues. And now here
I was in this leadership role.”
Once more she said yes – never dreaming
that less than four years later, she would be
positioned to step in as acting president.
Jones hired 16 faculty members during
her time as dean, and she made sure that
women and minority candidates were
considered. She mentored new instructors,
including Frederick Douglass Scholars, and
she watched with delight as more women
became department chairs.
The transition was unexpected.
Today, “I love seeing two female deans
leading our undergraduate Colleges,” she
says. “We still need improvement, but there is
a richer diversity.”
“I remember Gerri being surprised – surprised
but ready. For her, it was like putting on
another pair of shoes,” says Jeff Jones,
who took on the role of “first gentleman.”
“The University, and that sense of
responsibility and service, had always
been a part of our lives.”
In her first public statement as acting
president, Jones vowed to be more
than a caretaker. She would move the
University forward.
Four years later, at her formal inauguration,
she pledged “not only a commitment to
excellence, but also a willingness to make
thoughtful and purposeful change.”
And so she did, adding doctoral degrees and
other academic programs, renovating Coover
Hall and the president’s residence, expanding
shared governance, and streamlining the
University’s academic structure.
Through a host of challenges, including an
unprecedented pandemic and plans for
campus integrations, Jones never lost sight of
her mission – to sustain her alma mater and
help students build a brighter future at Cal U.
In retirement, Jones will have more time
for family, including three beloved
grandchildren. She and Jeff will leave
their South Hall apartment for a new
home in Washington County.
“My goal was always to leave the University
a little better than I found it,” she says.
“I wanted people to feel they’d made
the right decision to work or go to school
here. Students, faculty, staff, alumni – I want
everyone to feel that this is their place, too.”
career highlights
1968-72
1974-78
1978-98
1987-98
1998-08
Cal State
undergrad
Counselor,
Special
Programs
Department
Director,
Upward
Bound
Chair,
Academic
Development
Services
Interim Dean/
Dean, College
of Education &
Human Services
See the rest of
University President
Geraldine Jones's
journey online at
calu.edu/review
FA L L 2 0 2 0
Yes
She
said
On her first day of work on campus, a man
followed her into the parking lot outside Old
Main. Only faculty could use the space, he
announced. He seemed surprised to learn
that Jones was part of the teaching staff.
9
Retiring president built a career
by embracing opportunities
U
niversity President Geraldine Jones
retires from Cal U in January,
ending a career that took her from
the classroom to the President’s Office.
As Miss California, she was invited to “any
and all” events, and she immersed herself in
college life. The campus quickly became her
second home.
That was a not the future she envisioned
while commuting from Brownsville to “Cal
State” as a first-generation college student.
It was not the goal she aspired to when she
joined California’s faculty.
She especially loved student teaching –
except, perhaps, for an awkward moment
when her supervising teacher, the formidable
Merrell Holman ’42, arrived without warning
and found a nervous Jones tugging down
a hemline that barely met the dress code.
But Jones was determined to say “yes”
to every opportunity. And time after time,
that decision made all the difference.
“This University changes lives,” she says.
“It certainly changed mine.”
CAL U REVIEW
My goal was always to
leave the University
a little better than
I found it.”
8
Teaching
and Mentoring
An early turning point came in her sophomore
year, when California’s dean of women,
Maetroy Walker, invited Jones to appear in
the Miss California State College pageant.
Although an African American student had
never won the competition, Jones signed up.
She sang the Burt Bacharach hit “What the
World Needs Now Is Love” in the talent
portion of the show. She walked away
with the campus title and won the talent
competition at the state pageant in Harrisburg.
“That was life-changing for me,” Jones recalls.
“I’ll never forget that dress!” Jones says
with a laugh.
Shortly before graduation, Jones stopped
at the Albert Gallatin School District office to
pick up a job application. The superintendent
asked her to interview on the spot. She said
yes, and landed her first full-time position.
“I loved teaching school,” she recalls.
“I thought I’d retire from that job.”
But two years later, opportunity knocked
again. She was offered a grant-funded
position at Cal U.
“I was about to get married. I had a full-time
teaching job, and this was a temporary
position in student support services. I talked
to my father, and he said, ‘You’re young. Now
is the time to go for the opportunity.’ I thought
about it, and I said yes.”
“I guess I looked young,” she says. “There
were only a handful of women on the faculty
and an even smaller handful of minority
faculty. … For some people, it was new and
different to see me in that role.”
The student support program thrived, and
Jones enjoyed counseling students who, like
her, were the first in their families to attend
college. Four years later she was asked to
direct California’s Upward Bound program,
which prepares high school students for
college success.
Again, she said yes. She held that position for
20 years and obtained $3.9 million in federal
grants. For 11 of those years she led the
Academic Development Services Department.
As department chair, Jones worked closely
with Dr. Stephen A. Pavlak ’63, dean of the
College of Education and Human Services.
When Pavlak’s work took him to the State
System office in Harrisburg, she agreed to
shift from faculty to administration.
More than once Jones found aid for needy
students on the verge of dropping out.
“I remember one young man who walked
across the stage at graduation and gave me a
big hug,” she says. An extra $200 had made it
possible for him to finish his degree.
“I have been truly, truly blessed. And I’ve got
to give it back.”
Leading
through change
After stints in interim roles, Jones was
appointed dean of the College. Some
difficult conversations ensued.
Eight years into her role as dean, Jones was
called to the President’s Office. The provost’s
seat was vacant, and she thought she’d be
asked to serve on the search committee.
Instead, Dr. Angelo Armenti Jr. tapped her to
become Cal U’s chief academic officer.
“Some of those faculty had been my
professors when I was a student. Some
had been my colleagues. And now here
I was in this leadership role.”
Once more she said yes – never dreaming
that less than four years later, she would be
positioned to step in as acting president.
Jones hired 16 faculty members during
her time as dean, and she made sure that
women and minority candidates were
considered. She mentored new instructors,
including Frederick Douglass Scholars, and
she watched with delight as more women
became department chairs.
The transition was unexpected.
Today, “I love seeing two female deans
leading our undergraduate Colleges,” she
says. “We still need improvement, but there is
a richer diversity.”
“I remember Gerri being surprised – surprised
but ready. For her, it was like putting on
another pair of shoes,” says Jeff Jones,
who took on the role of “first gentleman.”
“The University, and that sense of
responsibility and service, had always
been a part of our lives.”
In her first public statement as acting
president, Jones vowed to be more
than a caretaker. She would move the
University forward.
Four years later, at her formal inauguration,
she pledged “not only a commitment to
excellence, but also a willingness to make
thoughtful and purposeful change.”
And so she did, adding doctoral degrees and
other academic programs, renovating Coover
Hall and the president’s residence, expanding
shared governance, and streamlining the
University’s academic structure.
Through a host of challenges, including an
unprecedented pandemic and plans for
campus integrations, Jones never lost sight of
her mission – to sustain her alma mater and
help students build a brighter future at Cal U.
In retirement, Jones will have more time
for family, including three beloved
grandchildren. She and Jeff will leave
their South Hall apartment for a new
home in Washington County.
“My goal was always to leave the University
a little better than I found it,” she says.
“I wanted people to feel they’d made
the right decision to work or go to school
here. Students, faculty, staff, alumni – I want
everyone to feel that this is their place, too.”
career highlights
1968-72
1974-78
1978-98
1987-98
1998-08
Cal State
undergrad
Counselor,
Special
Programs
Department
Director,
Upward
Bound
Chair,
Academic
Development
Services
Interim Dean/
Dean, College
of Education &
Human Services
See the rest of
University President
Geraldine Jones's
journey online at
calu.edu/review
FA L L 2 0 2 0
Yes
She
said
On her first day of work on campus, a man
followed her into the parking lot outside Old
Main. Only faculty could use the space, he
announced. He seemed surprised to learn
that Jones was part of the teaching staff.
9
P R E S I D E N TS H A L L S K E TC H E S U N I V E R S I T Y STO RY
O
ld Main’s Grand Hall has an
updated look, a new name and
a fresh purpose.
CAL U REVIEW
The spacious entrance to the University
President’s office suite has been transformed
into a portrait gallery dedicated to California’s
former leaders.
10
“Before we moved to remote operations,
visitors and students sometimes would stop
by to see the portraits,” she says. “They tell a
story about our school’s history and heritage.
With an updated setting, I thought we could
tell that story even better.”
Renamed “Presidents Hall,” it showcases
paintings of the principals who led SouthWestern Normal College – the forerunner of
Cal U – and the presidents of California State
Teachers College, California State College
and California University of Pennsylvania.
So during the spring and summer months,
painters from the Facilities Management
Department removed outdated wallpaper
and repainted the room’s walls and stately
columns. Carpenters took down the painted
moldings that surrounded the hall’s unique
stained-glass windows and replaced them
with custom-crafted wood trim.
Most of the paintings previously were
displayed in the Grand Hall and the
adjoining Dome Room, a reception area
outside the president’s conference room
and private office.
The four tall windows, created by former
Cal U art professor Leslie Parkinson,
depict Pennsylvania wildflowers. Like the
portraits, they shine more brightly in the
refreshed setting.
President Geraldine Jones passes the
images of her predecessors on her way to
work each day.
“I am very proud of the work our shops are
capable of performing,” says Mike Kanalis,
director of Facilities Management.
LATEST ADDITIONS
A recent addition to the art collection is a
portrait of Dr. Angelo Armenti Jr., who was
University president from 1992-2012.
First gentleman Jeff Jones, an
accomplished photographer and artist,
created the digital artwork based on a
2004 photograph by Greg Sofranko,
Cal U’s creative services director.
The hall’s older paintings, in the moody
“Rembrandt style,” provide little context,
Jeff Jones explains. But more recent
portraits, including Armenti’s, place the
subjects in an environment that helps to
tell their story.
He will use that contemporary style to
create a digital portrait of his spouse
before she retires.
“At first we considered hanging only the
presidents’ portraits in this space,” says
President Jones, the seventh person in
California’s history to hold that title.
It’s not about me. It’s about the history
of this wonderful University. I’m proud
to be a part of that history.”
GER ALDINE JONES, UNIVERSIT Y PRESIDENT
“But those normal school administrators
made important decisions that shaped the
history of this institution. They set California
on a path that brings us to where we are
today. They belong here too.
“And with the addition of President Armenti’s
portrait, as well as my own, we’ve brought
the collection up to date.”
Presidents Hall is one of the oldest rooms
on campus, in use since Old Main was
completed in 1871. The high-ceilinged hall
has served as the school’s library, a lecture
hall and, most recently, a place for meetings,
banquets and receptions.
President Jones remembers taking an
audio-visual course in the room during her
undergraduate years, when the space was
utilized for classrooms and offices. More
recently, she’s hosted holiday receptions for
Cal U employees and quarterly breakfasts
for community leaders in the hall.
She is pleased to know that her portrait
has been added to the collection. As the
first woman and the first person of color to
hold Cal U’s top leadership post, her image
speaks volumes about how the institution
has changed over the decades.
“It’s not about me,” President Jones
insists. “It’s about the history of this
wonderful University. I’m proud to be a
part of that history.”
By Christine Kindl
VP for Communications and Marketing
VISIT THE GALLERY
See a video highlighting the
portraits in Presidents Hall
at calu.edu/review
FA L L 2 0 2 0
PORTRAITS
IN LEADERSHIP
“A project that brings life back to a portion
of a historical room is amazing to witness.
We were able to maintain the historical look
and aesthetics while still transforming the
room. This finished project is a testament
to the type of work that members of the
Facilities Management Department do on
a daily basis.”
11
P R E S I D E N TS H A L L S K E TC H E S U N I V E R S I T Y STO RY
O
ld Main’s Grand Hall has an
updated look, a new name and
a fresh purpose.
CAL U REVIEW
The spacious entrance to the University
President’s office suite has been transformed
into a portrait gallery dedicated to California’s
former leaders.
10
“Before we moved to remote operations,
visitors and students sometimes would stop
by to see the portraits,” she says. “They tell a
story about our school’s history and heritage.
With an updated setting, I thought we could
tell that story even better.”
Renamed “Presidents Hall,” it showcases
paintings of the principals who led SouthWestern Normal College – the forerunner of
Cal U – and the presidents of California State
Teachers College, California State College
and California University of Pennsylvania.
So during the spring and summer months,
painters from the Facilities Management
Department removed outdated wallpaper
and repainted the room’s walls and stately
columns. Carpenters took down the painted
moldings that surrounded the hall’s unique
stained-glass windows and replaced them
with custom-crafted wood trim.
Most of the paintings previously were
displayed in the Grand Hall and the
adjoining Dome Room, a reception area
outside the president’s conference room
and private office.
The four tall windows, created by former
Cal U art professor Leslie Parkinson,
depict Pennsylvania wildflowers. Like the
portraits, they shine more brightly in the
refreshed setting.
President Geraldine Jones passes the
images of her predecessors on her way to
work each day.
“I am very proud of the work our shops are
capable of performing,” says Mike Kanalis,
director of Facilities Management.
LATEST ADDITIONS
A recent addition to the art collection is a
portrait of Dr. Angelo Armenti Jr., who was
University president from 1992-2012.
First gentleman Jeff Jones, an
accomplished photographer and artist,
created the digital artwork based on a
2004 photograph by Greg Sofranko,
Cal U’s creative services director.
The hall’s older paintings, in the moody
“Rembrandt style,” provide little context,
Jeff Jones explains. But more recent
portraits, including Armenti’s, place the
subjects in an environment that helps to
tell their story.
He will use that contemporary style to
create a digital portrait of his spouse
before she retires.
“At first we considered hanging only the
presidents’ portraits in this space,” says
President Jones, the seventh person in
California’s history to hold that title.
It’s not about me. It’s about the history
of this wonderful University. I’m proud
to be a part of that history.”
GER ALDINE JONES, UNIVERSIT Y PRESIDENT
“But those normal school administrators
made important decisions that shaped the
history of this institution. They set California
on a path that brings us to where we are
today. They belong here too.
“And with the addition of President Armenti’s
portrait, as well as my own, we’ve brought
the collection up to date.”
Presidents Hall is one of the oldest rooms
on campus, in use since Old Main was
completed in 1871. The high-ceilinged hall
has served as the school’s library, a lecture
hall and, most recently, a place for meetings,
banquets and receptions.
President Jones remembers taking an
audio-visual course in the room during her
undergraduate years, when the space was
utilized for classrooms and offices. More
recently, she’s hosted holiday receptions for
Cal U employees and quarterly breakfasts
for community leaders in the hall.
She is pleased to know that her portrait
has been added to the collection. As the
first woman and the first person of color to
hold Cal U’s top leadership post, her image
speaks volumes about how the institution
has changed over the decades.
“It’s not about me,” President Jones
insists. “It’s about the history of this
wonderful University. I’m proud to be a
part of that history.”
By Christine Kindl
VP for Communications and Marketing
VISIT THE GALLERY
See a video highlighting the
portraits in Presidents Hall
at calu.edu/review
FA L L 2 0 2 0
PORTRAITS
IN LEADERSHIP
“A project that brings life back to a portion
of a historical room is amazing to witness.
We were able to maintain the historical look
and aesthetics while still transforming the
room. This finished project is a testament
to the type of work that members of the
Facilities Management Department do on
a daily basis.”
11
CAMPUS CLIPS
workers throughout the region and across
Pennsylvania,” says Ben Brudnock, director
of graduate admissions at Cal U.
FOR INTEGRATION
C
al U is in the midst of a
comprehensive planning process
that considers integration with
Clarion and Edinboro universities.
In addition, the integrated university will
develop a robust array of online programs
to be offered throughout the State System
and beyond.
Under the Pennsylvania State System of
Higher Education’s plan for System Redesign,
the three western Pennsylvania schools
will join forces to expand educational
opportunities and rein in costs for students.
All three universities are continuing to enroll
students as details are being worked out
on the campuses and in Harrisburg. A public
comment period is scheduled for spring.
The earliest students would enter the
integrated university is Fall 2022.
As envisioned now, integration will create a
single accredited university – a powerhouse
with more than 15,000 students across its
three campuses. Each campus will retain its
own identity, culture and traditions, System
officials say.
CAL U REVIEW
A shared menu of in-person undergraduate
and graduate programs will expand
opportunities for students who want to live
on campus or commute to college.
12
NATIONAL HONOR FOR
EXERCISE SCIENCE
PROFESSOR
He also holds athletic training
certification from the National Athletic
Trainers Association.
Dr. Ben Reuter, an
associate professor
in the Department of
Exercise Science and
Sport Studies, has
been selected as the
National Strength
and Conditioning
Association’s Sports Medicine/Rehabilitation
Specialist of the Year for 2020.
ALUMNI SERVE ON
COUNCIL OF TRUSTEES
The award recipient is chosen based on
contributions to the field of sports medicine
and to the NSCA, a nonprofit association
dedicated to advancing strength and
conditioning and related sport science
professions around the world.
Reuter, who has been a member of the NSCA
since 1988 and a certified strength and
conditioning specialist since 1990, is the 19th
recipient of the award, which began in 2001.
Four alumni and a Cal U
student are among
the newest members
of the University’s
Council of Trustees.
Barry Niccolai ’93,
executive director of
Centerville Clinics, and
James W. Harris ’80, a retired administrative
law judge, joined the council in spring.
“Our mission to serve students, and all
the residents of Pennsylvania, is arguably
more important now than ever before,”
says Dr. Daniel Greenstein, the State
System’s chancellor.
“We are building something new. It won’t
be easy, and it will take time. But we have
the intelligence, opportunity, grit and
determination to pull this off.”
Each university in Pennsylvania’s State
System of Higher Education has an
11-member Council of Trustees. These
governing bodies are charged with a variety
of duties, including review and approval of
new academic programs, students fees, and
University contracts and purchases.
HEALTH, WELLNESS PARTNERS
JOIN EDUCATIONAL ALLIANCE
Two organizations focused on health and
wellness – healthcare provider Washington
Health System and fitness equipment
manufacturer Technogym – are the first
partners to join Cal U’s new Educational
Alliance.
Justin R. Nwokeji ’05, a major gifts officer at
the University of Pittsburgh, and Sandra K.
Guthrie ’01, a partner at Guthrie, Belczyk and
Associates P.C. Certified Public Accountants,
began their service this summer.
Verified employees of Educational Alliance
partners receive a 20% tuition discount
(based on in-state rates) when they attend
Cal U. The program also offers personalized
service to support students from application
through graduation.
Maria Dovshek, a Cal U junior from Scenery
Hill, Pa., is serving as student trustee.
“Cal U is committed to making top-quality
higher education more affordable for
TWO RECOGNIZED
AS TOP PERFORMERS
Two staff members were recognized this
fall for exceptional service to the University
and its students.
Rebecca “Becky”
Barnhart ’09, ’12, ’17,
a residence hall
director in the Office
of Housing and
Residence Life,
received the Vulcan
President’s Circle
Award for outstanding job performance.
Nominators said she is “one of those people
who makes you want to do well at your job.
She is always just a phone call away – even
in the middle of the night.”
C.J. DeJuliis,
associate director of
the Teaching and
Learning Center,
accepted the
Vulcan Exceptional
Service Award.
Colleagues described
him as helpful, positive and motivating,
noting that his technology skills have eased
the shift to remote instruction during the
coronavirus pandemic.
The awards were presented virtually
during the President’s fall “State of
the University” address.
SORORITY HONORS
CAL U PROFESSIONAL
Joy Helsel ’83, ’86,
Cal U’s director
of Fraternity and
Sorority Life, received
the 2019-2020
Alpha Sigma
Alpha Outstanding
Fraternity/Sorority
Advisor Award.
The award recognizes a campus
professional for exceptional service to Alpha
Sigma Alpha, which has 175 chapters and
Room to run
Tots exercise their bodies – and their imaginations – outdoors at the Rutledge
Institute for Early Childhood Education, where new playground equipment
has been installed. The on-campus preschool program serves eligible children
ages 3-5 and provides firsthand experience for Rutledge Scholars – students
who attend Cal U tuition-free as they prepare for careers in early childhood
education. Details: calu.edu/Rutledge
120,000 members nationwide, and to the
campus community.
“Our Greek community at Cal U is very
dedicated to being good students and
citizens,” says Helsel, a Sigma Kappa sister.
“To be recognized for doing something I love
to do is hard to put into words.”
Helsel was the inaugural recipient of Sigma
Tau Gamma’s Distinguished Interfraternal
Leadership Award. She also has received
the Theta Xi Educational Foundation of
Pittsburgh Distinguished Service Award, the
Northeast Panhellenic Conference Award
of Excellence and Outstanding Advisor
Award, and Delta Chi’s Outstanding Greek
Professional Award.
ELECTION EVENTS
EDUCATE, ENGAGE
Livestreaming gave Cal U’s premier
election-season event – a timely analysis
of election results by a panel of nationally
recognized speakers – a coast-to-coast
reach this year.
Political analyst Jon Delano, the
Money & Politics Editor at KDKA-TV
in Pittsburgh, reprised his role as moderator
for the Dr. Melanie Blumberg Post-Election
Analysis Forum.
The popular event is sponsored during
election years by Cal U’s chapter of the
American Democracy Project (ADP),
a nonpartisan initiative focused on
preparing the next generation of
informed and engaged citizens.
ADP chapters, political science classes and
election-watchers across the United States
were invited to tune in to the virtual event
and submit questions for the panel.
“Although we enjoy hosting the panelists on
campus, the livestream allowed us to reach
a wider audience this year,” says Dr. Laura
Tuennerman, ADP director at Cal U.
The campus chapter took a similar
approach to other events, including virtual
DebateWatch sessions and a Constitution
Day panel on racism and inequality that drew
more than 200 students on Zoom.
This year’s ADP activities are dedicated to
the memory of political science professor
Dr. Melanie Blumberg, who passed away
last summer.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
UNIVERSITIES PLAN
Educational Alliance partnerships are
available for businesses, nonprofit groups
and membership organizations. Employees
in partner organizations may enroll in Cal U’s
undergraduate, master’s degree, certificate
or licensure programs. For details, visit
calu.edu/alliance.
13
CAMPUS CLIPS
workers throughout the region and across
Pennsylvania,” says Ben Brudnock, director
of graduate admissions at Cal U.
FOR INTEGRATION
C
al U is in the midst of a
comprehensive planning process
that considers integration with
Clarion and Edinboro universities.
In addition, the integrated university will
develop a robust array of online programs
to be offered throughout the State System
and beyond.
Under the Pennsylvania State System of
Higher Education’s plan for System Redesign,
the three western Pennsylvania schools
will join forces to expand educational
opportunities and rein in costs for students.
All three universities are continuing to enroll
students as details are being worked out
on the campuses and in Harrisburg. A public
comment period is scheduled for spring.
The earliest students would enter the
integrated university is Fall 2022.
As envisioned now, integration will create a
single accredited university – a powerhouse
with more than 15,000 students across its
three campuses. Each campus will retain its
own identity, culture and traditions, System
officials say.
CAL U REVIEW
A shared menu of in-person undergraduate
and graduate programs will expand
opportunities for students who want to live
on campus or commute to college.
12
NATIONAL HONOR FOR
EXERCISE SCIENCE
PROFESSOR
He also holds athletic training
certification from the National Athletic
Trainers Association.
Dr. Ben Reuter, an
associate professor
in the Department of
Exercise Science and
Sport Studies, has
been selected as the
National Strength
and Conditioning
Association’s Sports Medicine/Rehabilitation
Specialist of the Year for 2020.
ALUMNI SERVE ON
COUNCIL OF TRUSTEES
The award recipient is chosen based on
contributions to the field of sports medicine
and to the NSCA, a nonprofit association
dedicated to advancing strength and
conditioning and related sport science
professions around the world.
Reuter, who has been a member of the NSCA
since 1988 and a certified strength and
conditioning specialist since 1990, is the 19th
recipient of the award, which began in 2001.
Four alumni and a Cal U
student are among
the newest members
of the University’s
Council of Trustees.
Barry Niccolai ’93,
executive director of
Centerville Clinics, and
James W. Harris ’80, a retired administrative
law judge, joined the council in spring.
“Our mission to serve students, and all
the residents of Pennsylvania, is arguably
more important now than ever before,”
says Dr. Daniel Greenstein, the State
System’s chancellor.
“We are building something new. It won’t
be easy, and it will take time. But we have
the intelligence, opportunity, grit and
determination to pull this off.”
Each university in Pennsylvania’s State
System of Higher Education has an
11-member Council of Trustees. These
governing bodies are charged with a variety
of duties, including review and approval of
new academic programs, students fees, and
University contracts and purchases.
HEALTH, WELLNESS PARTNERS
JOIN EDUCATIONAL ALLIANCE
Two organizations focused on health and
wellness – healthcare provider Washington
Health System and fitness equipment
manufacturer Technogym – are the first
partners to join Cal U’s new Educational
Alliance.
Justin R. Nwokeji ’05, a major gifts officer at
the University of Pittsburgh, and Sandra K.
Guthrie ’01, a partner at Guthrie, Belczyk and
Associates P.C. Certified Public Accountants,
began their service this summer.
Verified employees of Educational Alliance
partners receive a 20% tuition discount
(based on in-state rates) when they attend
Cal U. The program also offers personalized
service to support students from application
through graduation.
Maria Dovshek, a Cal U junior from Scenery
Hill, Pa., is serving as student trustee.
“Cal U is committed to making top-quality
higher education more affordable for
TWO RECOGNIZED
AS TOP PERFORMERS
Two staff members were recognized this
fall for exceptional service to the University
and its students.
Rebecca “Becky”
Barnhart ’09, ’12, ’17,
a residence hall
director in the Office
of Housing and
Residence Life,
received the Vulcan
President’s Circle
Award for outstanding job performance.
Nominators said she is “one of those people
who makes you want to do well at your job.
She is always just a phone call away – even
in the middle of the night.”
C.J. DeJuliis,
associate director of
the Teaching and
Learning Center,
accepted the
Vulcan Exceptional
Service Award.
Colleagues described
him as helpful, positive and motivating,
noting that his technology skills have eased
the shift to remote instruction during the
coronavirus pandemic.
The awards were presented virtually
during the President’s fall “State of
the University” address.
SORORITY HONORS
CAL U PROFESSIONAL
Joy Helsel ’83, ’86,
Cal U’s director
of Fraternity and
Sorority Life, received
the 2019-2020
Alpha Sigma
Alpha Outstanding
Fraternity/Sorority
Advisor Award.
The award recognizes a campus
professional for exceptional service to Alpha
Sigma Alpha, which has 175 chapters and
Room to run
Tots exercise their bodies – and their imaginations – outdoors at the Rutledge
Institute for Early Childhood Education, where new playground equipment
has been installed. The on-campus preschool program serves eligible children
ages 3-5 and provides firsthand experience for Rutledge Scholars – students
who attend Cal U tuition-free as they prepare for careers in early childhood
education. Details: calu.edu/Rutledge
120,000 members nationwide, and to the
campus community.
“Our Greek community at Cal U is very
dedicated to being good students and
citizens,” says Helsel, a Sigma Kappa sister.
“To be recognized for doing something I love
to do is hard to put into words.”
Helsel was the inaugural recipient of Sigma
Tau Gamma’s Distinguished Interfraternal
Leadership Award. She also has received
the Theta Xi Educational Foundation of
Pittsburgh Distinguished Service Award, the
Northeast Panhellenic Conference Award
of Excellence and Outstanding Advisor
Award, and Delta Chi’s Outstanding Greek
Professional Award.
ELECTION EVENTS
EDUCATE, ENGAGE
Livestreaming gave Cal U’s premier
election-season event – a timely analysis
of election results by a panel of nationally
recognized speakers – a coast-to-coast
reach this year.
Political analyst Jon Delano, the
Money & Politics Editor at KDKA-TV
in Pittsburgh, reprised his role as moderator
for the Dr. Melanie Blumberg Post-Election
Analysis Forum.
The popular event is sponsored during
election years by Cal U’s chapter of the
American Democracy Project (ADP),
a nonpartisan initiative focused on
preparing the next generation of
informed and engaged citizens.
ADP chapters, political science classes and
election-watchers across the United States
were invited to tune in to the virtual event
and submit questions for the panel.
“Although we enjoy hosting the panelists on
campus, the livestream allowed us to reach
a wider audience this year,” says Dr. Laura
Tuennerman, ADP director at Cal U.
The campus chapter took a similar
approach to other events, including virtual
DebateWatch sessions and a Constitution
Day panel on racism and inequality that drew
more than 200 students on Zoom.
This year’s ADP activities are dedicated to
the memory of political science professor
Dr. Melanie Blumberg, who passed away
last summer.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
UNIVERSITIES PLAN
Educational Alliance partnerships are
available for businesses, nonprofit groups
and membership organizations. Employees
in partner organizations may enroll in Cal U’s
undergraduate, master’s degree, certificate
or licensure programs. For details, visit
calu.edu/alliance.
13
CAMPUS CLIPS
The University again was honored for
programming in Business, Education,
Engineering, and Career Development.
Criteria include program accreditation,
breadth of programs and track record
for success.
CARTOON BLAZE GETS
A MAKEOVER
With a wider smile,
lively eyes, a new
hairstyle and taller
physique, Blaze is
ready for action.
“Cal U provides an amazing opportunity for
students from all backgrounds to learn, grow,
and become a valuable member of society,”
says Dr. Daniel E. Engstrom, interim provost
and vice president for Academic Affairs.
The refreshed visual
representation of
Cal U’s mascot is
appearing on T-shirts, fliers, stickers and
other promotional items, as well as student
recruitment materials.
“Our faculty and staff genuinely care about
the success of each student. They want to
see each student be successful in and out
of the classroom.”
REUP NETWORK SUPPORTS
DEGREE COMPLETION
The cartoon Blaze is based on the costumed
mascot, whose look will not change.
Cal U is among the first universities
to join the ReUp Network, a national
initiative that provides a path to graduation
for students who have some college
experience but no degree.
To update the character, Cal U held virtual
focus groups with student leaders, Vulcans
athletes, admissions student ambassadors
and individuals who have appeared in
costume as mascot Blaze.
Cal U’s Creative Services team took
it from there .
“Based on student feedback, we were able
to adjust his body structure to make him
appear taller,” says artist-illustrator Philip
Haragos. “His hair was scaled back to
provide less of a ‘shaggy’ look, and other
minor adjustments added to the overall
outcome.”
Celebration in a box
Because the University was unable to host spring and winter Commencement
ceremonies on campus, all grads were mailed a package of special gifts –
a yard sign, mortarboard, alumni pin and more – so they could celebrate at
home. A second mailing held each graduate’s personalized diploma and
commemorative Commencement booklet. The Class of 2020 will be invited
to attend when in-person graduation ceremonies resume.
More than 36 million Americans have
attended college but have not finished
their degree, ReUp reports, citing data
from the National Student Clearinghouse
Research Center.
ReUp enables students to complete their
degree at any of the transfer network’s partner
institutions. The ReUp Network includes two
members of Pennsylvania’s State System of
Higher Education – Clarion University and
Cal U – and a dozen additional schools.
“Since workers without degrees are often
the most likely to lose their jobs during
economic downturns, and the last to be
hired in an upswing, college completion
can have an outsized employment impact
during periods of economic uncertainty,”
says Sarah Horn, co-founder and CEO of
ReUp Education.
Free to students, ReUp uses data science,
data-informed communication and hands-on
coaching to help students return to their
previous institution or identify another
school that meets their current needs.
Personalized coaching supports them
through graduation.
Nationwide, ReUp provides access
to more than 300 undergraduate and
graduate programs in high-demand fields
such as healthcare, business, information
technology and more.
NEW ORG CHART
FOR ACADEMICS
Cal U began the fall semester with a
streamlined academic structure designed to
provide greater consistency to the student
experience, expand teaching opportunities
for permanent faculty, and make a
significant contribution to the University’s
long-term financial sustainability.
Three undergraduate colleges have been
consolidated to form the College of
Education and Liberal Arts, and the Eberly
College of Science and Technology, each led
by a dean and an assistant dean.
The number of academic departments
has been reduced from 22 to 11.
Combining certain departments allows
Cal U to strategically align accreditations
– recognition that academic programs
meet standards of excellence – and to pair
academic programs and faculty that can
collaborate and share qualifications.
Some academic programs now are housed
within a different college or academic
department, but course content and quality,
program accreditation and graduation
requirements have not been affected.
The reorganization is expected to achieve
ongoing savings of more than $700,000
per year in personnel costs and related
expenses, without affecting students’
progress toward graduation.
At long last, Blaze even has ears.
GRANT WILL IMPROVE
WETLANDS, STREAM
CAL U REVIEW
Nearly $360,000
has been awarded
to Dr. Robert Whyte,
professor in Cal U’s
Department of
Biology, Geology
and Environmental
Sciences, for a
stream and wetland mitigation project
near state Route 981 in Westmoreland
County, Pa.
14
The work includes widening and realigning
sections of the Boyer Run waterway for
about 4.5 miles, from a location just north
of Mount Pleasant to the village of Norvelt
in Mount Pleasant Township.
The project is a cooperative effort
between Cal U, the Foundation for California
University, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
and other state and federal agencies.
Services are provided by the Partners
for Fish and Wildlife’s Farmland Habitat
Program, a conservation collaborative
based at Cal U.
Student input shapes
messaging
CAL U RECOGNIZED
FOR EXCELLENCE
The project will create about 2.9 acres of
wetlands and 1,400 feet of stream mitigation
along Boyer Run.
Cal U has been selected as a 2020-2021
College of Distinction for the school’s
commitment to undergraduate education.
Data collected by students will be added to
the data from other mitigation sites to better
evaluate the benefits and impacts of these
wetlands to the region.
The University was recognized for
excellence in the areas of student
engagement, faculty, student life
and student outcomes.
“Boyer Run, in addition to our other projects,
provides a significant opportunity for our
students to be involved in professional
activities that will move their careers
forward upon graduation,” Whyte says.
In addition to the overall College
of Distinction award, Cal U received
special recognition for the first time
in programming for Military Support
and for Equity and Inclusion.
Young-adult focus groups helped
to select Cal U’s new marketing
campaign, which encourages
future students to ‘unlock’ the
promising future they envision.
Based on the campus-wide
research behind our Cal U logos,
the ‘Unlock Your Story’ message
has been rolled out in digital and
print advertising, outdoor boards
and a new television commercial
that debuted this fall. See the
new TV spot on YouTube at
youtube.com/c/CaluEdu
FA L L 2 0 2 0
The new cartoon mascot more closely
resembles the logo for Vulcans Athletics
introduced in 2019.
15
CAMPUS CLIPS
The University again was honored for
programming in Business, Education,
Engineering, and Career Development.
Criteria include program accreditation,
breadth of programs and track record
for success.
CARTOON BLAZE GETS
A MAKEOVER
With a wider smile,
lively eyes, a new
hairstyle and taller
physique, Blaze is
ready for action.
“Cal U provides an amazing opportunity for
students from all backgrounds to learn, grow,
and become a valuable member of society,”
says Dr. Daniel E. Engstrom, interim provost
and vice president for Academic Affairs.
The refreshed visual
representation of
Cal U’s mascot is
appearing on T-shirts, fliers, stickers and
other promotional items, as well as student
recruitment materials.
“Our faculty and staff genuinely care about
the success of each student. They want to
see each student be successful in and out
of the classroom.”
REUP NETWORK SUPPORTS
DEGREE COMPLETION
The cartoon Blaze is based on the costumed
mascot, whose look will not change.
Cal U is among the first universities
to join the ReUp Network, a national
initiative that provides a path to graduation
for students who have some college
experience but no degree.
To update the character, Cal U held virtual
focus groups with student leaders, Vulcans
athletes, admissions student ambassadors
and individuals who have appeared in
costume as mascot Blaze.
Cal U’s Creative Services team took
it from there .
“Based on student feedback, we were able
to adjust his body structure to make him
appear taller,” says artist-illustrator Philip
Haragos. “His hair was scaled back to
provide less of a ‘shaggy’ look, and other
minor adjustments added to the overall
outcome.”
Celebration in a box
Because the University was unable to host spring and winter Commencement
ceremonies on campus, all grads were mailed a package of special gifts –
a yard sign, mortarboard, alumni pin and more – so they could celebrate at
home. A second mailing held each graduate’s personalized diploma and
commemorative Commencement booklet. The Class of 2020 will be invited
to attend when in-person graduation ceremonies resume.
More than 36 million Americans have
attended college but have not finished
their degree, ReUp reports, citing data
from the National Student Clearinghouse
Research Center.
ReUp enables students to complete their
degree at any of the transfer network’s partner
institutions. The ReUp Network includes two
members of Pennsylvania’s State System of
Higher Education – Clarion University and
Cal U – and a dozen additional schools.
“Since workers without degrees are often
the most likely to lose their jobs during
economic downturns, and the last to be
hired in an upswing, college completion
can have an outsized employment impact
during periods of economic uncertainty,”
says Sarah Horn, co-founder and CEO of
ReUp Education.
Free to students, ReUp uses data science,
data-informed communication and hands-on
coaching to help students return to their
previous institution or identify another
school that meets their current needs.
Personalized coaching supports them
through graduation.
Nationwide, ReUp provides access
to more than 300 undergraduate and
graduate programs in high-demand fields
such as healthcare, business, information
technology and more.
NEW ORG CHART
FOR ACADEMICS
Cal U began the fall semester with a
streamlined academic structure designed to
provide greater consistency to the student
experience, expand teaching opportunities
for permanent faculty, and make a
significant contribution to the University’s
long-term financial sustainability.
Three undergraduate colleges have been
consolidated to form the College of
Education and Liberal Arts, and the Eberly
College of Science and Technology, each led
by a dean and an assistant dean.
The number of academic departments
has been reduced from 22 to 11.
Combining certain departments allows
Cal U to strategically align accreditations
– recognition that academic programs
meet standards of excellence – and to pair
academic programs and faculty that can
collaborate and share qualifications.
Some academic programs now are housed
within a different college or academic
department, but course content and quality,
program accreditation and graduation
requirements have not been affected.
The reorganization is expected to achieve
ongoing savings of more than $700,000
per year in personnel costs and related
expenses, without affecting students’
progress toward graduation.
At long last, Blaze even has ears.
GRANT WILL IMPROVE
WETLANDS, STREAM
CAL U REVIEW
Nearly $360,000
has been awarded
to Dr. Robert Whyte,
professor in Cal U’s
Department of
Biology, Geology
and Environmental
Sciences, for a
stream and wetland mitigation project
near state Route 981 in Westmoreland
County, Pa.
14
The work includes widening and realigning
sections of the Boyer Run waterway for
about 4.5 miles, from a location just north
of Mount Pleasant to the village of Norvelt
in Mount Pleasant Township.
The project is a cooperative effort
between Cal U, the Foundation for California
University, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
and other state and federal agencies.
Services are provided by the Partners
for Fish and Wildlife’s Farmland Habitat
Program, a conservation collaborative
based at Cal U.
Student input shapes
messaging
CAL U RECOGNIZED
FOR EXCELLENCE
The project will create about 2.9 acres of
wetlands and 1,400 feet of stream mitigation
along Boyer Run.
Cal U has been selected as a 2020-2021
College of Distinction for the school’s
commitment to undergraduate education.
Data collected by students will be added to
the data from other mitigation sites to better
evaluate the benefits and impacts of these
wetlands to the region.
The University was recognized for
excellence in the areas of student
engagement, faculty, student life
and student outcomes.
“Boyer Run, in addition to our other projects,
provides a significant opportunity for our
students to be involved in professional
activities that will move their careers
forward upon graduation,” Whyte says.
In addition to the overall College
of Distinction award, Cal U received
special recognition for the first time
in programming for Military Support
and for Equity and Inclusion.
Young-adult focus groups helped
to select Cal U’s new marketing
campaign, which encourages
future students to ‘unlock’ the
promising future they envision.
Based on the campus-wide
research behind our Cal U logos,
the ‘Unlock Your Story’ message
has been rolled out in digital and
print advertising, outdoor boards
and a new television commercial
that debuted this fall. See the
new TV spot on YouTube at
youtube.com/c/CaluEdu
FA L L 2 0 2 0
The new cartoon mascot more closely
resembles the logo for Vulcans Athletics
introduced in 2019.
15
Cal U tour guide Brett Bieber (right)
points out Cal U landmarks to Isaac
Bittinger and his parents, Chad and
Shannon, who came from Accident,
Md., for a campus visit experience.
Comfortable seating welcomes future
students and their families as they
wait for a campus tour.
Smile! Mascot Blaze is ready to
pose for selfies with future Vulcans.
The bookstore entrance is right around
the corner in the Natali Student Center.
YOU'RE WELCOME
S PAC E R E D E S I G N E D W I T H V I S I TO R S I N M I N D
16
Instead of starting the campus visit experience
in Eberly Hall, future students and their families
now meet with Admissions staff inside the
Natali Student Center, where a portion of the
bookstore has been remodeled to welcome
future Vulcans.
University logos and the “Unlock Your Story”
message set the scene for visitors. Large wall
panels in Vulcan red feature a campus map,
high-impact images and fun facts about Cal U.
A life-size cutout of mascot Blaze is the perfect
companion for Instagram-worthy selfies.
“It’s important to make a strong first impression,
and the new Welcome Center does exactly
that,” says T. David Garcia, vice president for
Enrollment Management.
“It’s a welcoming space that never lets you
forget where you are or why you’ve come to
California. It’s the ideal start to a new student’s
Cal U journey.”
FA L L 2 0 2 0
CAL U REVIEW
W
ith a new location and a bold new look,
Cal U’s remodeled Welcome Center is
making first impressions count.
17
Cal U tour guide Brett Bieber (right)
points out Cal U landmarks to Isaac
Bittinger and his parents, Chad and
Shannon, who came from Accident,
Md., for a campus visit experience.
Comfortable seating welcomes future
students and their families as they
wait for a campus tour.
Smile! Mascot Blaze is ready to
pose for selfies with future Vulcans.
The bookstore entrance is right around
the corner in the Natali Student Center.
YOU'RE WELCOME
S PAC E R E D E S I G N E D W I T H V I S I TO R S I N M I N D
16
Instead of starting the campus visit experience
in Eberly Hall, future students and their families
now meet with Admissions staff inside the
Natali Student Center, where a portion of the
bookstore has been remodeled to welcome
future Vulcans.
University logos and the “Unlock Your Story”
message set the scene for visitors. Large wall
panels in Vulcan red feature a campus map,
high-impact images and fun facts about Cal U.
A life-size cutout of mascot Blaze is the perfect
companion for Instagram-worthy selfies.
“It’s important to make a strong first impression,
and the new Welcome Center does exactly
that,” says T. David Garcia, vice president for
Enrollment Management.
“It’s a welcoming space that never lets you
forget where you are or why you’ve come to
California. It’s the ideal start to a new student’s
Cal U journey.”
FA L L 2 0 2 0
CAL U REVIEW
W
ith a new location and a bold new look,
Cal U’s remodeled Welcome Center is
making first impressions count.
17
INTERN SPOTLIGHT
SUPPLY CHAIN PARTNER
Business major ‘drills down on data’
&
BIOLOGY MAJOR MONITORS MICHIGAN WILDLIFE
K
eeping tabs on sensitive species was the highlight of
Maille O’Toole’s internship. A senior who’s studying fisheries
and wildlife biology, O’Toole interned with the Wildlife
Department of the U.S. Forest Service, in Michigan’s Manistee
National Forest.
There she worked alongside wildlife technicians to survey and
monitor a number of federally classified sensitive species, including
birds such as the goshawk, red-shouldered hawk, Louisiana
waterthrush, cerulean warbler and piping plover.
B
etter business through better
collaborations. Marc Gibson, a
business administration major with
a concentration in economics and minor in
computer science, interned remotely to help
SAB Ariba achieve just that.
SAP Ariba is a procurement and supply chain
collaboration solution that connects suppliers
and other trading partners around the world.
Gibson gained experience in the company’s
critical incident engagement area.
“It’s basically high-level customer support,
where my team triages our clients’ very timesensitive problems and gets them sent to the
appropriate people to be solved,” he explains.
“This requires considerable knowledge,
which is why I did a lot of shadowing with
co-workers on Skype, sharing the screen so
I could watch them triage service requests
and ask any questions that I might have.”
Gibson also gained experience with
Microsoft Power BI software, which can
be used to generate reports to ensure teams
meet performance goals.
“Once in there I analyzed it and created
visuals such as bar graphs, pie charts
and matrix tables that drill down on the
data,” he says.
“I made my presentation to my boss’s
boss and other project leads, which is kind
of a big deal because it put me in front of
some very high-level people at Ariba.”
Gibson found a Cal U network at the company,
including supervisor Josh Dvorchak ’05,
Alan Natali ’74, ’79 and Bob Buttermore ’89.
“There are several Cal U alumni at SAP Ariba
who are very successful, which reflects on
how the school prepares its students for
successful careers,” Gibson says.
“I think that Cal U is a great school. Many
of my professors have always gone out of
their way to be helpful. This internship will
definitely positively impact me.”
She also monitored box turtles, wood turtles, spotted turtles
and massasauga rattlesnakes.
O’Toole spent time at savannah restoration sites, where sections of
land were reseeded with native grasses. Her group dug holes and
installed nearly 50 barrier posts between three sites to stop any
motorized vehicles from entering. They also planted milkweed to
encourage monarch butterflies to lay eggs in the area.
O’Toole received academic credits, housing and a weekly stipend
for her work.
“My experiences with the Forest Service will really advance my
resume,” she says. “The skills I acquired are priceless.”
O’Toole’s summer internship continues a relationship with Cal U
started almost 15 years ago by Dr. Carol Bocetti, a professor in
Cal U’s Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Sciences.
“They (Forest Service officials) report that our students are well
prepared for field work and are highly motivated to build additional
professional skills,” Bocetti says. “It has been a very good relationship
for both forests and for Cal U.”
CAL U REVIEW
A native of Venetia, Pa., and vice president of the Cal U equestrian
team, O’Toole transferred to California after earning an associate
degree from Potomac State College.
18
“I love the classes here, although they are rigorous,” she says.
“I am so grateful to Dr. Bocetti for helping me with my transition
to Cal U, and setting this internship up for me.
“I feel much more prepared for starting my career thanks to her
and this internship.”
COMMUNITY NEWS
English major sees
her words in print
H
annah Wyman has quite a resume.
The University Honors Program
student is an English major with
a minor in women’s studies, news editor
for the Cal Times, a peer mentor, and a
member of the Student Activities Board
and Alpha Lambda Delta.
She has also completed an internship
with the Erie Reader, a weekly alternative
newspaper focused on art, culture
and news.
This internship
gave me the
chance to talk
to so many people
I never would
have talked to.”
“I enjoyed … covering the local impacts and
how people come together for these efforts,”
Wyman says. “It’s been moving seeing
people step up and help each other out.
Writing mostly from home, like many
professional journalists, Wyman had
dozens of stories published this summer,
many about the COVID-19 pandemic. She
also covered protests in Erie following the
death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
“This internship gave me the chance to
talk to so many people I never would have
talked to.”
Her interview subjects included a man who
started a petition seeking to remove an Erie
police officer after a video of an alleged
assault during a peaceful protest went viral,
and a person who started a GoFundMe
page for a protester who was arrested.
Wyman brought her community-oriented
experience back to the Cal Times student
newspaper, which publishes online at
caltimes.org. She hopes to continue
community coverage once face-to-face
instruction resumes on campus.
Journalism professor Dr. Debbie Goh is not
surprised by Wyman’s success.
“Even with the most basic assignment …
she will look for ways to present her stories
so that they will be meaningful and engaging
to her readers.
“In the current climate, where the news
industry is facing so many threats, it is
heartening to have a student like Hannah,
who is passionate and dedicated to pursuing
impactful journalism.”
By Bruce Wald ’85 (retired),
information writer at Cal U
FA L L 2 0 2 0
“I got the chance to use a variety of equipment, such as a radio
telemetry device to locate animals and track their movements,” she
says. “We were out in the field every day working on something new.”
19
INTERN SPOTLIGHT
SUPPLY CHAIN PARTNER
Business major ‘drills down on data’
&
BIOLOGY MAJOR MONITORS MICHIGAN WILDLIFE
K
eeping tabs on sensitive species was the highlight of
Maille O’Toole’s internship. A senior who’s studying fisheries
and wildlife biology, O’Toole interned with the Wildlife
Department of the U.S. Forest Service, in Michigan’s Manistee
National Forest.
There she worked alongside wildlife technicians to survey and
monitor a number of federally classified sensitive species, including
birds such as the goshawk, red-shouldered hawk, Louisiana
waterthrush, cerulean warbler and piping plover.
B
etter business through better
collaborations. Marc Gibson, a
business administration major with
a concentration in economics and minor in
computer science, interned remotely to help
SAB Ariba achieve just that.
SAP Ariba is a procurement and supply chain
collaboration solution that connects suppliers
and other trading partners around the world.
Gibson gained experience in the company’s
critical incident engagement area.
“It’s basically high-level customer support,
where my team triages our clients’ very timesensitive problems and gets them sent to the
appropriate people to be solved,” he explains.
“This requires considerable knowledge,
which is why I did a lot of shadowing with
co-workers on Skype, sharing the screen so
I could watch them triage service requests
and ask any questions that I might have.”
Gibson also gained experience with
Microsoft Power BI software, which can
be used to generate reports to ensure teams
meet performance goals.
“Once in there I analyzed it and created
visuals such as bar graphs, pie charts
and matrix tables that drill down on the
data,” he says.
“I made my presentation to my boss’s
boss and other project leads, which is kind
of a big deal because it put me in front of
some very high-level people at Ariba.”
Gibson found a Cal U network at the company,
including supervisor Josh Dvorchak ’05,
Alan Natali ’74, ’79 and Bob Buttermore ’89.
“There are several Cal U alumni at SAP Ariba
who are very successful, which reflects on
how the school prepares its students for
successful careers,” Gibson says.
“I think that Cal U is a great school. Many
of my professors have always gone out of
their way to be helpful. This internship will
definitely positively impact me.”
She also monitored box turtles, wood turtles, spotted turtles
and massasauga rattlesnakes.
O’Toole spent time at savannah restoration sites, where sections of
land were reseeded with native grasses. Her group dug holes and
installed nearly 50 barrier posts between three sites to stop any
motorized vehicles from entering. They also planted milkweed to
encourage monarch butterflies to lay eggs in the area.
O’Toole received academic credits, housing and a weekly stipend
for her work.
“My experiences with the Forest Service will really advance my
resume,” she says. “The skills I acquired are priceless.”
O’Toole’s summer internship continues a relationship with Cal U
started almost 15 years ago by Dr. Carol Bocetti, a professor in
Cal U’s Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Sciences.
“They (Forest Service officials) report that our students are well
prepared for field work and are highly motivated to build additional
professional skills,” Bocetti says. “It has been a very good relationship
for both forests and for Cal U.”
CAL U REVIEW
A native of Venetia, Pa., and vice president of the Cal U equestrian
team, O’Toole transferred to California after earning an associate
degree from Potomac State College.
18
“I love the classes here, although they are rigorous,” she says.
“I am so grateful to Dr. Bocetti for helping me with my transition
to Cal U, and setting this internship up for me.
“I feel much more prepared for starting my career thanks to her
and this internship.”
COMMUNITY NEWS
English major sees
her words in print
H
annah Wyman has quite a resume.
The University Honors Program
student is an English major with
a minor in women’s studies, news editor
for the Cal Times, a peer mentor, and a
member of the Student Activities Board
and Alpha Lambda Delta.
She has also completed an internship
with the Erie Reader, a weekly alternative
newspaper focused on art, culture
and news.
This internship
gave me the
chance to talk
to so many people
I never would
have talked to.”
“I enjoyed … covering the local impacts and
how people come together for these efforts,”
Wyman says. “It’s been moving seeing
people step up and help each other out.
Writing mostly from home, like many
professional journalists, Wyman had
dozens of stories published this summer,
many about the COVID-19 pandemic. She
also covered protests in Erie following the
death of George Floyd in Minneapolis.
“This internship gave me the chance to
talk to so many people I never would have
talked to.”
Her interview subjects included a man who
started a petition seeking to remove an Erie
police officer after a video of an alleged
assault during a peaceful protest went viral,
and a person who started a GoFundMe
page for a protester who was arrested.
Wyman brought her community-oriented
experience back to the Cal Times student
newspaper, which publishes online at
caltimes.org. She hopes to continue
community coverage once face-to-face
instruction resumes on campus.
Journalism professor Dr. Debbie Goh is not
surprised by Wyman’s success.
“Even with the most basic assignment …
she will look for ways to present her stories
so that they will be meaningful and engaging
to her readers.
“In the current climate, where the news
industry is facing so many threats, it is
heartening to have a student like Hannah,
who is passionate and dedicated to pursuing
impactful journalism.”
By Bruce Wald ’85 (retired),
information writer at Cal U
FA L L 2 0 2 0
“I got the chance to use a variety of equipment, such as a radio
telemetry device to locate animals and track their movements,” she
says. “We were out in the field every day working on something new.”
19
ALUMNI NEWS
While 2020 was not the year that any of us
expected, I’m thankful for the great traditions
that define our alumni experience and keep us
engaged with one another and our University.
ni business
Help us support alum Business
lU
owners with the Ca alumni-owned
for
Exchange! Search your own
it
businesses or subm d and reach
te
enterprise to be lis ial customers.
nt
te
nearly 60,000 po
alu-bizexchange
Visit tinyurl.com/c business or to
ned
to find a Cal U-ow
list yours today.
In 2020 we were challenged to honor
and uphold many of those traditions while
re-creating the alumni experience to suit new
circumstances. Along the way, we created
some “new traditions,” including those of
the digital variety.
Whether through a virtual happy hour, a
digital Homecoming@Home celebration,
online trivia night or social media session
with long-lost California friends, we hope
you’ve been able to find a way to stay
connected with our alma mater.
We love to hear from you, too! Keep sending
us word of those milestones in your life, and
keep your information up to date with the
Alumni Relations Office. (You can update
at tinyurl.com/caluupdate.)
As we prepare for whatever the new year
may bring, we wish you health, wealth, success
and happiness. We hope to see you soon!
Dr. Ryan Barnhart '08, '09, '19
CAL U REVIEW
DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS
20
Stay connected to the Cal U Alumni
Association's online community! Contact
the Alumni Office at alumni@calu.edu or
724-938-4418 (use option 4) to request
your personal ID number. You can email
or call us any time for details about
upcoming alumni events.
SCHOOL COLORS
Future Vulcan Reagan, da
ughter
of Philip Locante ’10, ’11 an
d
Briana Akins Locante ’15
,
celebrates Homecoming@H
ome
with her parents by color
ing
everyone’s favorite Vulca
n, Blaze!
LET’S GET
SOCIAL
Connect with fellow alumni,
ws
get important University ne
h
in real time and stay in touc
with alumni activities at
Cal U. Look for @calualumni
on Facebook, Twitter,
and Instagram.
HOME(COMING)
DELIVERY
Expand your professio
nal network
with Cal U’s LinkedIn
resources. With
nearly 30,000 potent
ial connections,
following the University
’s LinkedIn page
or joining the Californi
a University of
Pennsylvania Alumni gr
oup is a great
way to connect with yo
ur fellow alumni.
Alumni Julia Shumar ’19, Davis
Slagle ’10 and Stefen Smith ’17,
employees at BeeGraphix, stuff
boxes with everything needed to
celebrate Homecoming@Home. Grads
purchased 242 boxes, each filled
with a T-shirt and other branded
items. Proceeds supported the Cal U
Cupboard food pantry.
READY
TO RUN
ATION
VULCAN N
SEASON 3
st,
l alumni podca
tion, our officia
featuring
The Vulcan Na
d season, now
ir
th
s
it
h
it
e.
w
is back
ble on YouTub
ila
va
a
o
ls
a
s
e
pp or
video episod
rite podcast a
vo
fa
r
ou
y
h
it
on,
Listen w
/vulcan-nati
m
o
.c
rl
u
y
n
ti
t
om/
on Spotify a
be at tinyurl.c
u
T
ou
Y
on
h
tc
and wa
outube.
calualumni-y
alumni
for interesting
g
in
k
o
lo
s
y
a
ture
We are alw
atured on a fu
fe
e
b
to
e
lik
guests. If you’d lcan Nation, contact the
e Vu
du.
episode of Th
alumni@calu.e
t
a
s
on
ti
la
e
R
i
n
Office of Alum
Kate Vaughan ’00 is all decked
out for the Vulcan Virtual 5K.
Ninety intrepid runners took
part in the event, running 3.1
miles (5 kilometers) in locations
of their choosing. The virtual
race raised funds for the Class
of 2020 Scholarship.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
HAPPY
NEWYEAR,
NETWORK ON
GIVE 'EM
S
THE BUSINES
21
ALUMNI NEWS
While 2020 was not the year that any of us
expected, I’m thankful for the great traditions
that define our alumni experience and keep us
engaged with one another and our University.
ni business
Help us support alum Business
lU
owners with the Ca alumni-owned
for
Exchange! Search your own
it
businesses or subm d and reach
te
enterprise to be lis ial customers.
nt
te
nearly 60,000 po
alu-bizexchange
Visit tinyurl.com/c business or to
ned
to find a Cal U-ow
list yours today.
In 2020 we were challenged to honor
and uphold many of those traditions while
re-creating the alumni experience to suit new
circumstances. Along the way, we created
some “new traditions,” including those of
the digital variety.
Whether through a virtual happy hour, a
digital Homecoming@Home celebration,
online trivia night or social media session
with long-lost California friends, we hope
you’ve been able to find a way to stay
connected with our alma mater.
We love to hear from you, too! Keep sending
us word of those milestones in your life, and
keep your information up to date with the
Alumni Relations Office. (You can update
at tinyurl.com/caluupdate.)
As we prepare for whatever the new year
may bring, we wish you health, wealth, success
and happiness. We hope to see you soon!
Dr. Ryan Barnhart '08, '09, '19
CAL U REVIEW
DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI RELATIONS
20
Stay connected to the Cal U Alumni
Association's online community! Contact
the Alumni Office at alumni@calu.edu or
724-938-4418 (use option 4) to request
your personal ID number. You can email
or call us any time for details about
upcoming alumni events.
SCHOOL COLORS
Future Vulcan Reagan, da
ughter
of Philip Locante ’10, ’11 an
d
Briana Akins Locante ’15
,
celebrates Homecoming@H
ome
with her parents by color
ing
everyone’s favorite Vulca
n, Blaze!
LET’S GET
SOCIAL
Connect with fellow alumni,
ws
get important University ne
h
in real time and stay in touc
with alumni activities at
Cal U. Look for @calualumni
on Facebook, Twitter,
and Instagram.
HOME(COMING)
DELIVERY
Expand your professio
nal network
with Cal U’s LinkedIn
resources. With
nearly 30,000 potent
ial connections,
following the University
’s LinkedIn page
or joining the Californi
a University of
Pennsylvania Alumni gr
oup is a great
way to connect with yo
ur fellow alumni.
Alumni Julia Shumar ’19, Davis
Slagle ’10 and Stefen Smith ’17,
employees at BeeGraphix, stuff
boxes with everything needed to
celebrate Homecoming@Home. Grads
purchased 242 boxes, each filled
with a T-shirt and other branded
items. Proceeds supported the Cal U
Cupboard food pantry.
READY
TO RUN
ATION
VULCAN N
SEASON 3
st,
l alumni podca
tion, our officia
featuring
The Vulcan Na
d season, now
ir
th
s
it
h
it
e.
w
is back
ble on YouTub
ila
va
a
o
ls
a
s
e
pp or
video episod
rite podcast a
vo
fa
r
ou
y
h
it
on,
Listen w
/vulcan-nati
m
o
.c
rl
u
y
n
ti
t
om/
on Spotify a
be at tinyurl.c
u
T
ou
Y
on
h
tc
and wa
outube.
calualumni-y
alumni
for interesting
g
in
k
o
lo
s
y
a
ture
We are alw
atured on a fu
fe
e
b
to
e
lik
guests. If you’d lcan Nation, contact the
e Vu
du.
episode of Th
alumni@calu.e
t
a
s
on
ti
la
e
R
i
n
Office of Alum
Kate Vaughan ’00 is all decked
out for the Vulcan Virtual 5K.
Ninety intrepid runners took
part in the event, running 3.1
miles (5 kilometers) in locations
of their choosing. The virtual
race raised funds for the Class
of 2020 Scholarship.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
HAPPY
NEWYEAR,
NETWORK ON
GIVE 'EM
S
THE BUSINES
21
Carolyn Tardd
Shujuane Martin
Dr. Kelton Edmonds
Adisa Hargett-Robinson
Dr. Saroyi Morris
Fred Smith Jr.
Professional Excellence Award
C.B. Wilson Distinguished Faculty Award
Young Alumni Award
Dr. Kelton Edmonds’ teaching and scholarship focus on African
American studies. A Cal U professor, he has re-established Black
History Month as a major event on campus and served as director
of the University’s Frederick Douglass Institute program.
W.S. Jackman Award of Distinction
Dr. Saroyi Morris ’92 works for the Georgia Department of Public
Health as program manager for the state’s Coastal Health District.
She serves on the Georgia Public Health Association’s board of
directors and teaches at the College of Coastal Georgia.
Michael Duda Award for Athletic Achievement
Brooque Williams ’10 plays basketball professionally overseas.
A four-year starter for the Vulcans (2006-2010), she was a
two-time WBCA All-American and the 2009 NCAA D-II Atlantic
Regional Tournament’s Most Valuable Player. She is a member
of the Cal U Athletic Hall of Fame.
CAL U REVIEW
Donna Barbisch
John R. Gregg Award for Loyalty and Service
Carolyn Tardd ’78 retired after 40 years of service to the Athletics
Department. An unofficial mentor and “mom” to thousands of
student-athletes and student workers over the years, she still
volunteers as a game-day administrator for Vulcan Athletics.
22
Brooque Williams
Pavlak/Shutsy Special Service Award
Eric Zwigart ’98 is CEO of RPP Products, which manufactures and
distributes auto products. He received two Spirit of Entrepreneurship
awards in 2018. His experience as a fraternity brother inspired him
to create a scholarship for Acacia fraternity members at Cal U.
Eric Zwigart
William Viola II
Shujuane Martin ’01, ’03 is president and CEO of the Private Industry
Council of Westmoreland/Fayette Inc. A past recipient of the Jennie
Carter Award at Cal U, she oversees the $23 million budget that
supports PIC’s 24 programs and 300 employees.
Adisa Hargett-Robinson ’16 is an on-air producer for the Department
of Veterans Affairs, where she creates digital and social media
content for various channels. A former news reporter, she is a
member of the National Association of Black Journalists.
26
TH
CLASS ENTERS
ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME
A
lthough athletics competition
was suspended this fall,
Cal U continues its tradition
of inducting former Vulcans standouts
into the Athletics Hall of Fame. This
year’s class is the 26th cohort of these
distinguished honorees.
Laskey’s victories rank second in PSAC
men’s soccer history. He led the program
to PSAC Championship appearances five
times; earned the program’s first league
title, in 2008; and guided the Vulcans
to the NCAA Tournament three times
in eight years, from 2004-2011.
Amanda Heister-DelGreco ’09 was a
prolific forward on the Cal U women’s
soccer team from 2006-2009.
Three-time All-American Kayla
Smith ’10,’ 11 was a dominant
forward for Vulcans basketball
from 2006-2011.
Named PSAC Athlete of the Year as
a senior, she helped the Vulcans make
their first appearances in the PSAC
and NCAA tournaments in 2009.
She led the PSAC with 19 goals and
42 points as a senior and was an
NSCAA and Daktronics first-team
all-region selection.
Heister-DelGreco holds all-time school
records of 44 goals and 107 points.
Only one other player has eclipsed
the century mark in points.
Meritorious Award
Bernard “Bernie” Kalocay ’65
was a standout pitcher for Vulcans
baseball and a two-year team captain
in the 1960s.
Rear Admiral William R. Furlong Award
for Military Service
He helped the program advance to the
NAIA National Tournament in Saint
Joseph, Mo., in both 1962 and 1963.
Kalocay posted a 4-0 record with a 1.29
ERA as a sophomore and finished his
career with 18 victories, winning at least
four games each season.
Fred Smith Jr. ’83 is president and CEO of the consulting firm KFS
Strategic Management Services. He’s also a co-founder and chief
innovation officer for the Innovative Leadership Program, a nonprofit
group that brings STEM education to underserved youths.
Donna Barbisch ’84 is a retired U.S. Army major general and
CEO of Wicked Solutions, a consultancy for leadership and
decision-making in disasters and complex conflicts. She is
among the nation’s most distinguished experts in terrorism,
threat reduction and disaster preparedness.
Alumni Choice: Illustrious Californian
William Viola II ’69 is an entrepreneur, martial arts instructor
and mixed martial arts pioneer. Credited by some as co-creator
of the sport of MMA, he is the co-founder of CV Productions Inc.,
the first mixed martial arts company in the United States.
Kalocay passed away on July 29, 2020.
Dennis Laskey ’84, ’06 was head coach
for men’s soccer from 1984-1988 and
1991-2012, and for women’s soccer
from 1990-2001.
In both sports he is the all-time winningest
coach in school history, with a total 258223-41 mark with the men’s program and
an 89-123-13 record with the women’s.
She helped Cal U capture NCAA Atlantic
Regional championships in 2007 and
2008 and was the 2011 PSAC West
Athlete of the Year. In her last two
seasons she ranked among the top five
in the country in rebounds per game.
Smith holds the all-time school record
with 1,309 rebounds and ranks third with
2,096 points. She is one of eight players
in PSAC history – three from Cal U –
to finish with more than 2,000 career
points and 1,000 rebounds.
Randy Sturgill ’11 was a standout
pitcher for Vulcans baseball from
2008-2011 and received multiple
All-America honors in his final
two seasons.
The Vulcans’ ace throughout his
career, Sturgill helped his team
capture the 2010 PSAC Championship.
He led the league in strikeouts and
was the PSAC West Pitcher of the
Year in both 2010 and 2011.
Despite playing just three seasons,
Sturgill holds the all-time school
record with 23 victories and ranks
second with 241 strikeouts. He also
ranks among the top five in school
history with a 2.88 ERA and 16
complete games in his career.
By Matt Kifer, sports information director at Cal U
Amanda
Heister-DelGreco
Bernard “Bernie”
Kalocay
Dennis Laskey
Kayla Smith
Randy Sturgill
FA L L 2 0 2 0
2020
ALUMNI
ASSOCIATION AWARDS
23
Carolyn Tardd
Shujuane Martin
Dr. Kelton Edmonds
Adisa Hargett-Robinson
Dr. Saroyi Morris
Fred Smith Jr.
Professional Excellence Award
C.B. Wilson Distinguished Faculty Award
Young Alumni Award
Dr. Kelton Edmonds’ teaching and scholarship focus on African
American studies. A Cal U professor, he has re-established Black
History Month as a major event on campus and served as director
of the University’s Frederick Douglass Institute program.
W.S. Jackman Award of Distinction
Dr. Saroyi Morris ’92 works for the Georgia Department of Public
Health as program manager for the state’s Coastal Health District.
She serves on the Georgia Public Health Association’s board of
directors and teaches at the College of Coastal Georgia.
Michael Duda Award for Athletic Achievement
Brooque Williams ’10 plays basketball professionally overseas.
A four-year starter for the Vulcans (2006-2010), she was a
two-time WBCA All-American and the 2009 NCAA D-II Atlantic
Regional Tournament’s Most Valuable Player. She is a member
of the Cal U Athletic Hall of Fame.
CAL U REVIEW
Donna Barbisch
John R. Gregg Award for Loyalty and Service
Carolyn Tardd ’78 retired after 40 years of service to the Athletics
Department. An unofficial mentor and “mom” to thousands of
student-athletes and student workers over the years, she still
volunteers as a game-day administrator for Vulcan Athletics.
22
Brooque Williams
Pavlak/Shutsy Special Service Award
Eric Zwigart ’98 is CEO of RPP Products, which manufactures and
distributes auto products. He received two Spirit of Entrepreneurship
awards in 2018. His experience as a fraternity brother inspired him
to create a scholarship for Acacia fraternity members at Cal U.
Eric Zwigart
William Viola II
Shujuane Martin ’01, ’03 is president and CEO of the Private Industry
Council of Westmoreland/Fayette Inc. A past recipient of the Jennie
Carter Award at Cal U, she oversees the $23 million budget that
supports PIC’s 24 programs and 300 employees.
Adisa Hargett-Robinson ’16 is an on-air producer for the Department
of Veterans Affairs, where she creates digital and social media
content for various channels. A former news reporter, she is a
member of the National Association of Black Journalists.
26
TH
CLASS ENTERS
ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME
A
lthough athletics competition
was suspended this fall,
Cal U continues its tradition
of inducting former Vulcans standouts
into the Athletics Hall of Fame. This
year’s class is the 26th cohort of these
distinguished honorees.
Laskey’s victories rank second in PSAC
men’s soccer history. He led the program
to PSAC Championship appearances five
times; earned the program’s first league
title, in 2008; and guided the Vulcans
to the NCAA Tournament three times
in eight years, from 2004-2011.
Amanda Heister-DelGreco ’09 was a
prolific forward on the Cal U women’s
soccer team from 2006-2009.
Three-time All-American Kayla
Smith ’10,’ 11 was a dominant
forward for Vulcans basketball
from 2006-2011.
Named PSAC Athlete of the Year as
a senior, she helped the Vulcans make
their first appearances in the PSAC
and NCAA tournaments in 2009.
She led the PSAC with 19 goals and
42 points as a senior and was an
NSCAA and Daktronics first-team
all-region selection.
Heister-DelGreco holds all-time school
records of 44 goals and 107 points.
Only one other player has eclipsed
the century mark in points.
Meritorious Award
Bernard “Bernie” Kalocay ’65
was a standout pitcher for Vulcans
baseball and a two-year team captain
in the 1960s.
Rear Admiral William R. Furlong Award
for Military Service
He helped the program advance to the
NAIA National Tournament in Saint
Joseph, Mo., in both 1962 and 1963.
Kalocay posted a 4-0 record with a 1.29
ERA as a sophomore and finished his
career with 18 victories, winning at least
four games each season.
Fred Smith Jr. ’83 is president and CEO of the consulting firm KFS
Strategic Management Services. He’s also a co-founder and chief
innovation officer for the Innovative Leadership Program, a nonprofit
group that brings STEM education to underserved youths.
Donna Barbisch ’84 is a retired U.S. Army major general and
CEO of Wicked Solutions, a consultancy for leadership and
decision-making in disasters and complex conflicts. She is
among the nation’s most distinguished experts in terrorism,
threat reduction and disaster preparedness.
Alumni Choice: Illustrious Californian
William Viola II ’69 is an entrepreneur, martial arts instructor
and mixed martial arts pioneer. Credited by some as co-creator
of the sport of MMA, he is the co-founder of CV Productions Inc.,
the first mixed martial arts company in the United States.
Kalocay passed away on July 29, 2020.
Dennis Laskey ’84, ’06 was head coach
for men’s soccer from 1984-1988 and
1991-2012, and for women’s soccer
from 1990-2001.
In both sports he is the all-time winningest
coach in school history, with a total 258223-41 mark with the men’s program and
an 89-123-13 record with the women’s.
She helped Cal U capture NCAA Atlantic
Regional championships in 2007 and
2008 and was the 2011 PSAC West
Athlete of the Year. In her last two
seasons she ranked among the top five
in the country in rebounds per game.
Smith holds the all-time school record
with 1,309 rebounds and ranks third with
2,096 points. She is one of eight players
in PSAC history – three from Cal U –
to finish with more than 2,000 career
points and 1,000 rebounds.
Randy Sturgill ’11 was a standout
pitcher for Vulcans baseball from
2008-2011 and received multiple
All-America honors in his final
two seasons.
The Vulcans’ ace throughout his
career, Sturgill helped his team
capture the 2010 PSAC Championship.
He led the league in strikeouts and
was the PSAC West Pitcher of the
Year in both 2010 and 2011.
Despite playing just three seasons,
Sturgill holds the all-time school
record with 23 victories and ranks
second with 241 strikeouts. He also
ranks among the top five in school
history with a 2.88 ERA and 16
complete games in his career.
By Matt Kifer, sports information director at Cal U
Amanda
Heister-DelGreco
Bernard “Bernie”
Kalocay
Dennis Laskey
Kayla Smith
Randy Sturgill
FA L L 2 0 2 0
2020
ALUMNI
ASSOCIATION AWARDS
23
HELPING
OTHERS THRIVE
A
lexia Doumbouya ’05 is passionate
about giving others a hand.
STATE
PARKS
STEWARD
A
s more people enjoyed outdoor activities amid the
coronavirus pandemic, locations like Linn Run State Park
in Westmoreland County, Pa., were busier than ever during
spring, summer and fall 2020.
Which means Corey Snyder has rarely been busier. Or happier.
The director of the Linn Run State Park Complex – which also
includes the nearby Laurel Summit and Laurel Mountain state parks
– began his job in June. He graduated from Cal U in 2002 with his
bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation management and in
2004 with a master’s degree in geography.
Snyder spent five years as manager of the Memorial Lake State
Park Complex in Lebanon County, and three years as manager
of Tyler State Park. The U.S. Army veteran served with the
infantry from 2006 to 2010, including a deployment to Iraq
in 2008-2009.
Now Snyder oversees 612 acres of state park at Linn Run,
493 at Laurel Mountain and six at Laurel Summit.
“My role is to provide for the safety of our patrons as much
as we look after the natural resources,” he says.
“Park attendance in the commonwealth this year was way,
way up, because we were open when many things were
closed or canceled. We’ve had visitors come in droves, and it
has been a positive to take out of the (pandemic) situation that
more people are experiencing the beauty of our state parks.”
There have been challenges, but Snyder embraced those, too, with a
small but ambitious paid staff and a crew of volunteers, all of whom
are essential to park operations.
“The impact from more visitors has been a challenge – for instance,
we had to clean more often – but that’s what we’re here for,” he
says. “Our patrons have been very understanding, and it has been
a team effort all the way around.
Cal U REVIEW
“People often ask how much it costs to get into state parks, and the
answer is, it’s absolutely free. It’s a wonderful natural resource for
everyone to enjoy."
24
By Wendy Mackall, communications director at Cal U
As a student at Cal U, Doumbouya
studied international business and
economics, with a minor in leadership.
“I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with it
then, but I always knew I wanted to help
people,” she says.
Since then, she’s found multiple ways of
doing just that.
Today, she’s a busy mother of two
who runs two businesses and helps
her husband administer a third. She
coordinates community outreach to
women entrepreneurs and cohosts The
Legacy Podcast Philly, a project that
engages entrepreneurs and other leaders in
discussions about business, issues faced by
the African American community and faith.
After spending 12 years in corporate
executive leadership and administrative
roles, Doumbouya founded Milestone Pros
LLC, a Philadelphia-based “professional
evolution agency,” in 2017. As CEO, she
connects small businesses with coaching,
training and other resources.
My biggest goal is to see
all the different women
in a diverse way be able
to share resources,
share services and help
each other grow.”
She and her team help entrepreneurs
identify opportunities to grow, and
she relishes those moments when
her clients say, “Oh, gosh, I didn’t even
think about that.”
In fact, even in the midst of the pandemic,
she saw opportunities for her clients
to develop affordable virtual customer
support infrastructure.
As she was researching new business
opportunities for a client, Doumbouya
discovered Walker’s Legacy, an organization
that promotes the career advancement, skill
sets and networks of multicultural women
in business and women entrepreneurs.
A LE X I A
DOUMBOU YA ’05
Impressed, she reached out to volunteer.
The organization, instead, asked her to take
on a more substantial role.
In March, she became the Philadelphia city
director for Walker’s Legacy, coordinating
the organization’s outreach efforts at the
local level.
Doumbouya is finding other ways to help
women, too, including the recent launch of
Cocobump.com, an initiative that helps to
reduce racial disparities in maternal health.
“My biggest goal is to see all the different
women in a diverse way be able to share
resources, share services and help each
other grow.”
HIGHLIGHT REELS
IN TAMPA BAY
P
rofessional football is action-packed,
and it’s Daniel Beeck’s job to catch
it all.
The 2019 graduate is a video producer for
the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
His job includes shooting video and putting
together highlight reels, game-day trailers
and other segments that are used on the
Buccaneers’ social media platforms and
website. He uses video to tell players’
stories, giving fans a chance to get to know
the athletes beyond the field.
“Storytelling plays into every facet of what I
do,” says the former communication studies
major. “And I owe a lot of my storytelling
ability to the foundational building blocks
that I was able to gather at Cal U.”
As a student, Beeck took on roles with
campus radio station WCAL, CUTV and
the Cal Times student newspaper.
Although he wasn’t entirely sure what he
wanted to do after graduation, he knew
that he wanted to work for a professional
sports franchise. He had a particular
interest in football.
Landing a job with the Buccaneers has
been a dream come true – and it came at
a remarkable moment in the team’s history.
In 2020, the franchise unveiled a new
brand and updated its uniforms. Veteran
quarterback Tom Brady joined the team
roster. And, of course, players and staff
had to navigate COVID-19 restrictions.
From mid-March through late July, Beeck
worked from home. He returned to Florida
as training camp ramped up in preparation
for the NFL season.
With Brady joining the team, there’s been
a heightened sense of excitement, Beeck
says. He’s seen athletes who are revered in
their own right awed by Brady, a surefire
Hall of Fame quarterback with six Super
Bowl rings.
“It’s been pretty cool,” Beeck says.
“It’s like a new excitement, that
excitement of the unknown.”
By Laurie Bartolotta,
marketing content specialist at Cal U
FA L L 2 0 2 0
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
25
HELPING
OTHERS THRIVE
A
lexia Doumbouya ’05 is passionate
about giving others a hand.
STATE
PARKS
STEWARD
A
s more people enjoyed outdoor activities amid the
coronavirus pandemic, locations like Linn Run State Park
in Westmoreland County, Pa., were busier than ever during
spring, summer and fall 2020.
Which means Corey Snyder has rarely been busier. Or happier.
The director of the Linn Run State Park Complex – which also
includes the nearby Laurel Summit and Laurel Mountain state parks
– began his job in June. He graduated from Cal U in 2002 with his
bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation management and in
2004 with a master’s degree in geography.
Snyder spent five years as manager of the Memorial Lake State
Park Complex in Lebanon County, and three years as manager
of Tyler State Park. The U.S. Army veteran served with the
infantry from 2006 to 2010, including a deployment to Iraq
in 2008-2009.
Now Snyder oversees 612 acres of state park at Linn Run,
493 at Laurel Mountain and six at Laurel Summit.
“My role is to provide for the safety of our patrons as much
as we look after the natural resources,” he says.
“Park attendance in the commonwealth this year was way,
way up, because we were open when many things were
closed or canceled. We’ve had visitors come in droves, and it
has been a positive to take out of the (pandemic) situation that
more people are experiencing the beauty of our state parks.”
There have been challenges, but Snyder embraced those, too, with a
small but ambitious paid staff and a crew of volunteers, all of whom
are essential to park operations.
“The impact from more visitors has been a challenge – for instance,
we had to clean more often – but that’s what we’re here for,” he
says. “Our patrons have been very understanding, and it has been
a team effort all the way around.
Cal U REVIEW
“People often ask how much it costs to get into state parks, and the
answer is, it’s absolutely free. It’s a wonderful natural resource for
everyone to enjoy."
24
By Wendy Mackall, communications director at Cal U
As a student at Cal U, Doumbouya
studied international business and
economics, with a minor in leadership.
“I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do with it
then, but I always knew I wanted to help
people,” she says.
Since then, she’s found multiple ways of
doing just that.
Today, she’s a busy mother of two
who runs two businesses and helps
her husband administer a third. She
coordinates community outreach to
women entrepreneurs and cohosts The
Legacy Podcast Philly, a project that
engages entrepreneurs and other leaders in
discussions about business, issues faced by
the African American community and faith.
After spending 12 years in corporate
executive leadership and administrative
roles, Doumbouya founded Milestone Pros
LLC, a Philadelphia-based “professional
evolution agency,” in 2017. As CEO, she
connects small businesses with coaching,
training and other resources.
My biggest goal is to see
all the different women
in a diverse way be able
to share resources,
share services and help
each other grow.”
She and her team help entrepreneurs
identify opportunities to grow, and
she relishes those moments when
her clients say, “Oh, gosh, I didn’t even
think about that.”
In fact, even in the midst of the pandemic,
she saw opportunities for her clients
to develop affordable virtual customer
support infrastructure.
As she was researching new business
opportunities for a client, Doumbouya
discovered Walker’s Legacy, an organization
that promotes the career advancement, skill
sets and networks of multicultural women
in business and women entrepreneurs.
A LE X I A
DOUMBOU YA ’05
Impressed, she reached out to volunteer.
The organization, instead, asked her to take
on a more substantial role.
In March, she became the Philadelphia city
director for Walker’s Legacy, coordinating
the organization’s outreach efforts at the
local level.
Doumbouya is finding other ways to help
women, too, including the recent launch of
Cocobump.com, an initiative that helps to
reduce racial disparities in maternal health.
“My biggest goal is to see all the different
women in a diverse way be able to share
resources, share services and help each
other grow.”
HIGHLIGHT REELS
IN TAMPA BAY
P
rofessional football is action-packed,
and it’s Daniel Beeck’s job to catch
it all.
The 2019 graduate is a video producer for
the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
His job includes shooting video and putting
together highlight reels, game-day trailers
and other segments that are used on the
Buccaneers’ social media platforms and
website. He uses video to tell players’
stories, giving fans a chance to get to know
the athletes beyond the field.
“Storytelling plays into every facet of what I
do,” says the former communication studies
major. “And I owe a lot of my storytelling
ability to the foundational building blocks
that I was able to gather at Cal U.”
As a student, Beeck took on roles with
campus radio station WCAL, CUTV and
the Cal Times student newspaper.
Although he wasn’t entirely sure what he
wanted to do after graduation, he knew
that he wanted to work for a professional
sports franchise. He had a particular
interest in football.
Landing a job with the Buccaneers has
been a dream come true – and it came at
a remarkable moment in the team’s history.
In 2020, the franchise unveiled a new
brand and updated its uniforms. Veteran
quarterback Tom Brady joined the team
roster. And, of course, players and staff
had to navigate COVID-19 restrictions.
From mid-March through late July, Beeck
worked from home. He returned to Florida
as training camp ramped up in preparation
for the NFL season.
With Brady joining the team, there’s been
a heightened sense of excitement, Beeck
says. He’s seen athletes who are revered in
their own right awed by Brady, a surefire
Hall of Fame quarterback with six Super
Bowl rings.
“It’s been pretty cool,” Beeck says.
“It’s like a new excitement, that
excitement of the unknown.”
By Laurie Bartolotta,
marketing content specialist at Cal U
FA L L 2 0 2 0
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
25
SPORTS ROUNDUP
MORE ON THE FLOOR
The Vulcans basketball and volleyball teams will have a new look underfoot
when they return to home action.
Awards
The floor of the Convocation Center arena has been refinished and its
logos updated. When the facility reopens, fans will see the Vulcans Athletics
logo at midcourt, the Cal U and Vulcans wordmarks at multiple locations
on the floor, and a customized PSAC logo inside the free-throw line.
THREE
“As an NCAA Division II program, we’ve always felt very fortunate to have the
opportunity to play in a first-class facility like the Convocation Center,” said head
women’s basketball coach Jess Strom.
“Our student-athletes can’t wait to see the new court firsthand and get back
out there to represent Cal U.”
CAP OFF CAREER
The Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference voted in July to suspend all athletic
events and championships through the fall semester in response to the COVID-19
pandemic. Plans for the spring semester were uncertain at press time.
R
yan Smith ’20 collected a trio of awards to close one of the
most decorated careers in the Vulcan golf program’s history.
He became the first men’s golfer in recent years to receive
All-PSAC First-Team status three time in his career, and he was
chosen for the PING all-region team for a third consecutive year.
This is the first time the floor and logos have been refreshed since the Convocation
Center opened with a basketball doubleheader in December 2011.
Smith also was tapped for the CoSIDA Academic All-District Team
last spring after being named the 2018 PSAC Champion Scholar.
After spending the summer at Caves Valley Golf Club, near
Baltimore, Md., Smith is an assistant at Old Memorial Golf Club
in Tampa, Fla.
VULCANS IN THE NFL
Former Vulcans Erik Harris
’13 and C.J. Goodwin are
National Football League
playmakers this season.
Harris, the Las Vegas
Raiders’ starting free
safety in the opening
five weeks of the season,
was chosen as a team
captain after a breakout
2019 campaign.
He previously played for
the New Orleans Saints
after spending three
years with the Hamilton
Tiger-Cats of the CFL.
With the Vulcans, Harris was a
three-year starting defensive back.
He helped the program qualify for
the NCAA playoffs in each of his four
seasons, from 2008-2011.
Goodwin continues to be a mainstay on
special teams for the Dallas Cowboys
after leading in special-teams tackles
last season.
In 2017, he became the first Cal U player
to appear in a Super Bowl, as a member
of the Atlanta Falcons.
Goodwin played in every game for
the Vulcans in 2013, his only year
with the program.
FOOTBALL LINEMAN AMONG THE BEST
Senior offensive lineman Eric Hudanick was named a semifinalist
for the 2020 William V. Campbell Trophy, presented by the National
Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame.
Open to collegiate players at all NCAA and NAIA levels, the trophy
recognizes a player as the best football scholar-athlete in the nation.
CAL U REVIEW
Hudanick was one of 20 semifinalists from NCAA Division II. He has
started 32 games in his career, including all 22 games over the last
two seasons at right tackle.
26
Nominees for the award must be in their final year of eligibility
and have at least a cumulative GPA of 3.2. The committee
nominates only those who are significant contributors to their
team and demonstrate leadership and citizenship.
FUNDRAISER HITS THE MARK
Thanks to nearly 350 generous donors
– and the power of crowdfunding
and social media – Cal U’s third annual
Athletics Day of Giving raised more
than $42,000 for athletics scholarships.
Messages from coaches and players
reached alumni, friends and parents
across the country. Many athletics
programs met or surpassed their goals.
“Everyone played a role in the success
of the campaign,” says Randi Minerva,
manager of annual giving programs.
“This was a true team effort.”
Proceeds from the Day of Giving
provide scholarship support for
Vulcans student-athletes. For more
ways to give, visit calu.edu/giving.
$42,000+ RAISED
FOR ATHLETICS SCHOLARSHIPS
SCHOLARS
SCORE HONORS
Cal U student-athletes and
Vulcans athletic teams continue
to earn academic awards,
despite the pivot to remote
learning last spring.
Across all sports, 253 studentathletes maintained at least a 3.0
grade-point average for the Spring
2020 semester and were named to
the Athletic Director Honor Roll.
Additionally, 184 student-athletes
were named PSAC ScholarAthletes, which requires a
cumulative 3.25 GPA or higher,
and 66 student-athletes
received the D2ADA Academic
Achievement Award, given to
students with a cumulative
3.50 GPA or higher through
four semesters.
In team awards, Vulcans
swimmers earned CSCAA Scholar
All-America Team honors for the
18th consecutive season. The
men’s and women’s cross country
and track and field teams swept
USTFCCCA All-Academic honors
in the four sports, and women’s
soccer and volleyball received
team academic laurels for the
third consecutive year.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
He led the team with a career-best scoring average of 74.9 strokes
in Fall 2019 before the coronavirus pandemic canceled the Spring
2020 season. Smith ended his career with a scoring average of
75.5 strokes, second-best in recent program history.
27
SPORTS ROUNDUP
MORE ON THE FLOOR
The Vulcans basketball and volleyball teams will have a new look underfoot
when they return to home action.
Awards
The floor of the Convocation Center arena has been refinished and its
logos updated. When the facility reopens, fans will see the Vulcans Athletics
logo at midcourt, the Cal U and Vulcans wordmarks at multiple locations
on the floor, and a customized PSAC logo inside the free-throw line.
THREE
“As an NCAA Division II program, we’ve always felt very fortunate to have the
opportunity to play in a first-class facility like the Convocation Center,” said head
women’s basketball coach Jess Strom.
“Our student-athletes can’t wait to see the new court firsthand and get back
out there to represent Cal U.”
CAP OFF CAREER
The Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference voted in July to suspend all athletic
events and championships through the fall semester in response to the COVID-19
pandemic. Plans for the spring semester were uncertain at press time.
R
yan Smith ’20 collected a trio of awards to close one of the
most decorated careers in the Vulcan golf program’s history.
He became the first men’s golfer in recent years to receive
All-PSAC First-Team status three time in his career, and he was
chosen for the PING all-region team for a third consecutive year.
This is the first time the floor and logos have been refreshed since the Convocation
Center opened with a basketball doubleheader in December 2011.
Smith also was tapped for the CoSIDA Academic All-District Team
last spring after being named the 2018 PSAC Champion Scholar.
After spending the summer at Caves Valley Golf Club, near
Baltimore, Md., Smith is an assistant at Old Memorial Golf Club
in Tampa, Fla.
VULCANS IN THE NFL
Former Vulcans Erik Harris
’13 and C.J. Goodwin are
National Football League
playmakers this season.
Harris, the Las Vegas
Raiders’ starting free
safety in the opening
five weeks of the season,
was chosen as a team
captain after a breakout
2019 campaign.
He previously played for
the New Orleans Saints
after spending three
years with the Hamilton
Tiger-Cats of the CFL.
With the Vulcans, Harris was a
three-year starting defensive back.
He helped the program qualify for
the NCAA playoffs in each of his four
seasons, from 2008-2011.
Goodwin continues to be a mainstay on
special teams for the Dallas Cowboys
after leading in special-teams tackles
last season.
In 2017, he became the first Cal U player
to appear in a Super Bowl, as a member
of the Atlanta Falcons.
Goodwin played in every game for
the Vulcans in 2013, his only year
with the program.
FOOTBALL LINEMAN AMONG THE BEST
Senior offensive lineman Eric Hudanick was named a semifinalist
for the 2020 William V. Campbell Trophy, presented by the National
Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame.
Open to collegiate players at all NCAA and NAIA levels, the trophy
recognizes a player as the best football scholar-athlete in the nation.
CAL U REVIEW
Hudanick was one of 20 semifinalists from NCAA Division II. He has
started 32 games in his career, including all 22 games over the last
two seasons at right tackle.
26
Nominees for the award must be in their final year of eligibility
and have at least a cumulative GPA of 3.2. The committee
nominates only those who are significant contributors to their
team and demonstrate leadership and citizenship.
FUNDRAISER HITS THE MARK
Thanks to nearly 350 generous donors
– and the power of crowdfunding
and social media – Cal U’s third annual
Athletics Day of Giving raised more
than $42,000 for athletics scholarships.
Messages from coaches and players
reached alumni, friends and parents
across the country. Many athletics
programs met or surpassed their goals.
“Everyone played a role in the success
of the campaign,” says Randi Minerva,
manager of annual giving programs.
“This was a true team effort.”
Proceeds from the Day of Giving
provide scholarship support for
Vulcans student-athletes. For more
ways to give, visit calu.edu/giving.
$42,000+ RAISED
FOR ATHLETICS SCHOLARSHIPS
SCHOLARS
SCORE HONORS
Cal U student-athletes and
Vulcans athletic teams continue
to earn academic awards,
despite the pivot to remote
learning last spring.
Across all sports, 253 studentathletes maintained at least a 3.0
grade-point average for the Spring
2020 semester and were named to
the Athletic Director Honor Roll.
Additionally, 184 student-athletes
were named PSAC ScholarAthletes, which requires a
cumulative 3.25 GPA or higher,
and 66 student-athletes
received the D2ADA Academic
Achievement Award, given to
students with a cumulative
3.50 GPA or higher through
four semesters.
In team awards, Vulcans
swimmers earned CSCAA Scholar
All-America Team honors for the
18th consecutive season. The
men’s and women’s cross country
and track and field teams swept
USTFCCCA All-Academic honors
in the four sports, and women’s
soccer and volleyball received
team academic laurels for the
third consecutive year.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
He led the team with a career-best scoring average of 74.9 strokes
in Fall 2019 before the coronavirus pandemic canceled the Spring
2020 season. Smith ended his career with a scoring average of
75.5 strokes, second-best in recent program history.
27
MILESTONES
50s
Andrew “Andy” Skero ’56, a former industrial
arts major, lives in Pittsburgh, Pa
60s
ahead
Thinking
Have you included Cal U in your will or thought
of including the University in your estate plans?
W
hen it comes to making a long-term impact on education at
California University of Pennsylvania, there are many giving
options to choose from.
As part of your estate plan, you can support Cal U through provisions in your
will, an insurance policy, a trust or proceeds from your financial planning.
Whether you want to put your donation to work immediately or design a plan
that provides benefits after you’re gone, you can feel good knowing that you
are helping to shape the future of California and its students.
People often assume that planned gifts are only for the wealthy, but this
could not be further from the truth. In fact, several of California University’s
most generous donors were people just like you — men and women who
wanted to make a difference in the lives of our Cal U students, both now
and well into the future.
What’s in your plan?
If you’ve already included Cal U in your estate plans, we need to hear from you.
CAL U REVIEW
As with any donation, we want to know your intentions, so your gift can be put
to work according to your wishes. We also will talk with you about the best
way to recognize your gift.
28
So how can you know which avenue of support is right for you? To identify
a charitable gift that best meets your family’s needs and supports our
University’s vital mission for years to come, you need a plan – and we’re
here to help.
To learn more about how
to include Cal U in your
estate planning, please
contact the Office of
University Development
and Alumni Relations
at 724-938-5775 or
mauro@calu.edu.
Tom Hopkins ’60
taught mathematics
in Scottsdale, Ariz.,
until he retired in
1995. Although he
added French to his
certification and
taught that language,
he enjoys using the Spanish he learned at
California High School when traveling.
Tom and his wife, Lynda, have visited
seven South American countries.
Larry Morris ’63 is retired from the
automotive industry. He and Joanna Morris
live in Reno, Nev. Larry majored in industrial
arts education and was in Delta Sigma Phi.
Joann Barantovich Carnes ’66 and Dr.
James Carnes live in Lakewood Ranch, Fla.
Joann was Cal State’s 1964 Homecoming
Queen and a member of Delta Zeta.
Beatrice “Bea” Esken-Worton Kuchta ’66 is
president of Tech Boxz, in California, Pa. Bea
studied secondary education at Cal U, where
she was a dorm counselor and a member
of Jazz Club and the Student Pennsylvania
State Education Association. She and
Edward Kuchta live in Pittsburgh, Pa.
David Tanner ’67 and Janet Patterson
Tanner ’67, ’73 are retired and living in
Dauphin, Pa. They have two sons and five
grandchildren. Janet, a former elementary
school teacher, is a certified volunteer
counselor at Morningstar Pregnancy
Services in Harrisburg, Pa. David served for
nine years as a U.S. Navy P-3 pilot before
transferring to the U.S. Air Force Reserve as
a C-130 pilot and senior intelligence officer,
retiring in 1997. He was stationed in the Gulf
of Arabia as air wing intelligence director
during operations Desert Shield and Desert
Storm. Along with this military service,
David taught industrial arts and owned an
architectural consultant firm. He received
the “Who’s Who in America” Lifetime
Achievement Award.
Raymond “Ray” Johnston ’67 and Isabel
Johnston live in Clermont, Fla. He is a retired
green-job developer with Anne Arundel
Workforce Development Corp. Ray is a
former industrial arts major.
The Hon. Alfred B. “Al” Bell ’69 lives
in Greensburg, Pa. He studied political
science at Cal U.
Sue Ann Olsavicky ’67 is the owner of Never
Too Many Stamps, in Goodyear, Ariz. She and
Lt. Col Robert Hicks live in Goodyear. She
studied secondary education, mathematics
at Cal U.
70s
Joseph Laslavic ’70 and Margaret Laslavic
live in Pittsburgh, Pa. He majored in
elementary education and counseling at
Cal U and played on the football team for
four years.
Joe Panarella ’70 and Liz Panarella live
in Frederick, Md. He majored in industrial
arts education at Cal U.
Gary Veltre ’70 and Rebeca Veltre live
in Nineveh, Pa. Gary studied secondary
education at Cal U, where he was a resident
assistant in Johnson Hall and worked in
the Dixon dining hall kitchen.
Joseph Waugh ’71 and Susan Clutter
Waugh ’72, ’76 live in Kernersville, N.C.
Joseph studied Earth science and was a
member of the Student Congress. Susan
studied speech-language pathology.
Paul Rach ’69, ’72 works for the Pennsylvania
Department of Education. He and Janice
Rach live in Monongahela, Pa. Paul studied
social studies education at Cal U and was in
Phi Sigma Pi.
David Huber ’74 is a retired deputy assessor
supervisor. He and Donna Huber live in
Mission Viejo, Calif. David majored in English
at Cal U and was in Glee Club, the choir and
Theta Xi.
Edward “Bud” Finfrock ’73 is a sales engineer
for Ramco Specialties, in Hudson, Ohio. He
and Kim Finfrock live in Uniontown, Ohio.
Bud studied urban recreation at Cal U.
Lynn Robb ’72 and Curt Robb live in Bristow,
Va. Lynn was an education major at Cal U.
Dennis Smiddle ’72
is executive
director of nonprofit
Fans 4 Help (Health,
Environment,
Learning and
Play). A retired
Pennsylvania
childcare health and safety inspector,
Dennis has won Senior Games gold medals
in football and softball competitions in five
consecutive years. He earned his bachelor’s
degree in psychology from Cal U.
.
Charles “Danny” Ross ’73 and Darlene Ross
live in Allison Park, Pa. Danny is a former
elementary education major. At Cal U he
participated in basketball, track and field,
and Student Congress.
Paul Bittner ’77 is a painter for Sampson
Morris Corp., in Monroeville, Pa. He and
Elaine Bittner live in Pittsburgh. Paul studied
secondary education and social studies
at Cal U and was a member and treasurer
of Kappa Phi Kappa fraternity. He also
participated in the college marching band,
the community symphony orchestra and
intramural basketball and softball.
Cathy Corbett Zumpetta ’77 and Dr. Anthony
Zumpetta live in Calvin, Pa. She majored
in social work at Cal U and was in the
band, Social Work/Sociology Club, and
Pi Gamma Mu, along with volunteering
in the Collegiate Center.
80s
Melanie Patterson ’82 is CEO/president of
Broad Innovations LLC, in Belle Vernon, Pa.
She and Robert Patterson ’68 live in Belle
Vernon. Melanie studied elementary
education at Cal U.
IN THE SPIRIT OF JENNIE CARTER
University President Geraldine Jones received the 2020
Jennie A. Carter Award at a virtual ceremony attended
by 75 colleagues, family members and friends. The
annual award honors those who embody the resilient
spirit of Elizabeth ‘Jennie’ Adams Carter, California’s
first African American graduate, Class of 1881. Joining
the event from Hawaii were William Carter, Jennie
Carter’s great-grandson, and his wife Kay, both longtime
supporters of the University. Jeff Jones, Cal U’s first
gentleman, presented the award.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
GIVE TO CAL U
29
MILESTONES
50s
Andrew “Andy” Skero ’56, a former industrial
arts major, lives in Pittsburgh, Pa
60s
ahead
Thinking
Have you included Cal U in your will or thought
of including the University in your estate plans?
W
hen it comes to making a long-term impact on education at
California University of Pennsylvania, there are many giving
options to choose from.
As part of your estate plan, you can support Cal U through provisions in your
will, an insurance policy, a trust or proceeds from your financial planning.
Whether you want to put your donation to work immediately or design a plan
that provides benefits after you’re gone, you can feel good knowing that you
are helping to shape the future of California and its students.
People often assume that planned gifts are only for the wealthy, but this
could not be further from the truth. In fact, several of California University’s
most generous donors were people just like you — men and women who
wanted to make a difference in the lives of our Cal U students, both now
and well into the future.
What’s in your plan?
If you’ve already included Cal U in your estate plans, we need to hear from you.
CAL U REVIEW
As with any donation, we want to know your intentions, so your gift can be put
to work according to your wishes. We also will talk with you about the best
way to recognize your gift.
28
So how can you know which avenue of support is right for you? To identify
a charitable gift that best meets your family’s needs and supports our
University’s vital mission for years to come, you need a plan – and we’re
here to help.
To learn more about how
to include Cal U in your
estate planning, please
contact the Office of
University Development
and Alumni Relations
at 724-938-5775 or
mauro@calu.edu.
Tom Hopkins ’60
taught mathematics
in Scottsdale, Ariz.,
until he retired in
1995. Although he
added French to his
certification and
taught that language,
he enjoys using the Spanish he learned at
California High School when traveling.
Tom and his wife, Lynda, have visited
seven South American countries.
Larry Morris ’63 is retired from the
automotive industry. He and Joanna Morris
live in Reno, Nev. Larry majored in industrial
arts education and was in Delta Sigma Phi.
Joann Barantovich Carnes ’66 and Dr.
James Carnes live in Lakewood Ranch, Fla.
Joann was Cal State’s 1964 Homecoming
Queen and a member of Delta Zeta.
Beatrice “Bea” Esken-Worton Kuchta ’66 is
president of Tech Boxz, in California, Pa. Bea
studied secondary education at Cal U, where
she was a dorm counselor and a member
of Jazz Club and the Student Pennsylvania
State Education Association. She and
Edward Kuchta live in Pittsburgh, Pa.
David Tanner ’67 and Janet Patterson
Tanner ’67, ’73 are retired and living in
Dauphin, Pa. They have two sons and five
grandchildren. Janet, a former elementary
school teacher, is a certified volunteer
counselor at Morningstar Pregnancy
Services in Harrisburg, Pa. David served for
nine years as a U.S. Navy P-3 pilot before
transferring to the U.S. Air Force Reserve as
a C-130 pilot and senior intelligence officer,
retiring in 1997. He was stationed in the Gulf
of Arabia as air wing intelligence director
during operations Desert Shield and Desert
Storm. Along with this military service,
David taught industrial arts and owned an
architectural consultant firm. He received
the “Who’s Who in America” Lifetime
Achievement Award.
Raymond “Ray” Johnston ’67 and Isabel
Johnston live in Clermont, Fla. He is a retired
green-job developer with Anne Arundel
Workforce Development Corp. Ray is a
former industrial arts major.
The Hon. Alfred B. “Al” Bell ’69 lives
in Greensburg, Pa. He studied political
science at Cal U.
Sue Ann Olsavicky ’67 is the owner of Never
Too Many Stamps, in Goodyear, Ariz. She and
Lt. Col Robert Hicks live in Goodyear. She
studied secondary education, mathematics
at Cal U.
70s
Joseph Laslavic ’70 and Margaret Laslavic
live in Pittsburgh, Pa. He majored in
elementary education and counseling at
Cal U and played on the football team for
four years.
Joe Panarella ’70 and Liz Panarella live
in Frederick, Md. He majored in industrial
arts education at Cal U.
Gary Veltre ’70 and Rebeca Veltre live
in Nineveh, Pa. Gary studied secondary
education at Cal U, where he was a resident
assistant in Johnson Hall and worked in
the Dixon dining hall kitchen.
Joseph Waugh ’71 and Susan Clutter
Waugh ’72, ’76 live in Kernersville, N.C.
Joseph studied Earth science and was a
member of the Student Congress. Susan
studied speech-language pathology.
Paul Rach ’69, ’72 works for the Pennsylvania
Department of Education. He and Janice
Rach live in Monongahela, Pa. Paul studied
social studies education at Cal U and was in
Phi Sigma Pi.
David Huber ’74 is a retired deputy assessor
supervisor. He and Donna Huber live in
Mission Viejo, Calif. David majored in English
at Cal U and was in Glee Club, the choir and
Theta Xi.
Edward “Bud” Finfrock ’73 is a sales engineer
for Ramco Specialties, in Hudson, Ohio. He
and Kim Finfrock live in Uniontown, Ohio.
Bud studied urban recreation at Cal U.
Lynn Robb ’72 and Curt Robb live in Bristow,
Va. Lynn was an education major at Cal U.
Dennis Smiddle ’72
is executive
director of nonprofit
Fans 4 Help (Health,
Environment,
Learning and
Play). A retired
Pennsylvania
childcare health and safety inspector,
Dennis has won Senior Games gold medals
in football and softball competitions in five
consecutive years. He earned his bachelor’s
degree in psychology from Cal U.
.
Charles “Danny” Ross ’73 and Darlene Ross
live in Allison Park, Pa. Danny is a former
elementary education major. At Cal U he
participated in basketball, track and field,
and Student Congress.
Paul Bittner ’77 is a painter for Sampson
Morris Corp., in Monroeville, Pa. He and
Elaine Bittner live in Pittsburgh. Paul studied
secondary education and social studies
at Cal U and was a member and treasurer
of Kappa Phi Kappa fraternity. He also
participated in the college marching band,
the community symphony orchestra and
intramural basketball and softball.
Cathy Corbett Zumpetta ’77 and Dr. Anthony
Zumpetta live in Calvin, Pa. She majored
in social work at Cal U and was in the
band, Social Work/Sociology Club, and
Pi Gamma Mu, along with volunteering
in the Collegiate Center.
80s
Melanie Patterson ’82 is CEO/president of
Broad Innovations LLC, in Belle Vernon, Pa.
She and Robert Patterson ’68 live in Belle
Vernon. Melanie studied elementary
education at Cal U.
IN THE SPIRIT OF JENNIE CARTER
University President Geraldine Jones received the 2020
Jennie A. Carter Award at a virtual ceremony attended
by 75 colleagues, family members and friends. The
annual award honors those who embody the resilient
spirit of Elizabeth ‘Jennie’ Adams Carter, California’s
first African American graduate, Class of 1881. Joining
the event from Hawaii were William Carter, Jennie
Carter’s great-grandson, and his wife Kay, both longtime
supporters of the University. Jeff Jones, Cal U’s first
gentleman, presented the award.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
GIVE TO CAL U
29
Lorene Thornburg ’83 is a litigation
paralegal, legal support manager for the
labor, employment and employee transitions
teams at Charles Schwab & Co. Inc.’s
campus in Lone Tree, Colo. She was a
member of Sigma Kappa sorority.
Melissa Starkes Council ’85, of Pittsburgh,
Pa., teaches second grade at Pittsburgh
Mifflin Elementary School. She majored in
early childhood education, was in the
Young and Gifted Gospel Choir and was
a Kappa Sweetheart.
Derek Clark ’85 is a teacher in the Dearborn
(Mich.) Public Schools. He studied industrial
arts at Cal U.
Paula Tirpak ’86 is a speech-language
pathologist for West Boca Medical Center, in
Boca Raton, Fla. She and Kenneth Tirpak ’85
live in Lake Worth Beach, Fla. Paula studied
speech and language pathology at Cal U
and was in chorus and the Speech and
Hearing Club.
John Bell ’86 is CEO of John P. Bell
Consulting, in Bowie, Md. He and Deitra Bell
live in Bowie. John studied political science
at Cal U, where he participated in football
and fencing.
Gerald “Gerry” Peterson ’86 is founder and
managing principal of Tartan Group LLC. A
commuter student who earned his M.B.A.
through evening classes at Cal U, he and
Karen Peterson live in Murrysville. Pa.
Stephen Woods ’89, of Fairview, Pa., is plant
manager for Erie Forge and Steel Inc. He
studied industrial management,
manufacturing and numerical control at
Cal U. He worked in manufacturing in Erie,
Pa., and Baltimore, Md. He enjoys coaching
youth hockey in his free time.
Janie Walmsley-Wilkerson ’89 is box office
manager at Cal U. She and Jason Wilkerson
live in Rostraver Township, Pa. As a student,
she majored in political science.
CAL U REVIEW
90s
30
Jeff Broadwater ’92, who studied
elementary education at Cal U, is the
owner of Roughcreek Holdings LLC, a
manufacturing company in Frisco, Texas.
Alison Onega ’95 is a teacher from Latrobe,
Pa. She studied elementary and special
education at Cal U.
Sheref Zurga ’95 is a controller for World
Bank Group in Washington, D.C. A resident
of Silver Spring, Md., he studied business
administration at Cal U.
Frank Liu ’95 lives in Taoyuan District,
Taiwan. He studied biology at Cal U.
Catherine Urban Dolfi ’96, an elementary
education major, is supervisor of operations
for Peoples Natural Gas, in Pittsburgh, Pa.
She and Brett Dolfi live in Coal Center, Pa.
Col. Jeffrey McCartney ’96, formerly of
Uniontown, Pa., graduated from the U.S.
Army War College at Carlisle, Pa., with a
master's degree in strategic studies in
June 2020. His next assignment is as
deputy commander with the U.S. Army
Physical Disability Agency, Joint Base
Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
Michael Elphick ’97 is a regional account
manager for Meyn, a global specialist for
poultry processing equipment. He earned his
bachelor’s degree in business administration
at Cal U, where he completed an internship
with Lucent Technologies.
Louise Urban ’98 is senior vice president
of operations for Allegheny Health Network.
A graduate of Cal U’s B.S.N. program, she
was president of both Canonsburg and
Jefferson hospitals.
Jenn Valeriote ’99 and her husband,
Mike Fry, live in Versailles, Ky. She was
a communication studies major at Cal U
and an All-American centerfielder on the
Vulcans’ 1997 and 1998 NCAA Division II
national championship softball teams.
Jenn was also a four-year standout on the
volleyball team.
00s
Marta Allshouse Smith ’00 and Ryan
Smith live in Beaufort, S.C. Marta
studied elementary and special
education at Cal U.
Michelle Senneway ’00, ’04 is the
Pittsburgh area’s lead volunteer for
Pandemic of Love, a mutual-aid
community of volunteers that has
spread across the United States and into
Mexico since its start in March 2020.
Efrain Martinez ’01 is principal of Orozco
Academy in Chicago, Ill. He majored in
Spanish at Cal U and was a member of
the Hispanic Student Association.
Kimberly Krieg ’03 and Keith Krieg live
in Beaufort, S.C. Kimberly majored in
secondary education, English at Cal U
and was in Phi Sigma Pi
IN PRINT
Norman K. Clark ’69 has published his first novel, Into the Endless Mountains, a
mystery/suspense epic set in the mountains of northern Pennsylvania in the 1980s.
Norm is a lawyer and managing partner of an international legal management
consulting firm. A Pittsburgh native, he now lives in Florida.
Mark Hofmann ’02 is the author of Good Mourning!: A Guide to Biting the Big One
… and Dying, Too, a semi-inspirational book of dark comedy. He earned his degree
in creative arts from Cal U and is a reporter and award-winning columnist with the
Uniontown Herald-Standard.
Christopher Kramer ’14 is the author of The Good Things in Life: A Nurse’s Story
of Connection. His book highlights the impact of human connection on his life as a
pediatric nurse, husband, father, son, brother, friend and, stranger still – a human.
He earned his Master of Science in Nursing from Cal U.
Richard A. Ruck, Jr. ’07, ’13 has had his most recent publication, Adaptations to
Police Academy Facilities/Dormitories in a Post Covid-19 Environment, published by
the American Criminal Justice Society in the September 2020 edition of ACJS Today.
He is a professor of criminal justice at East Stroudsburg University and a former
municipal police officer.
TRANSITIONS
Dr. Bruce Barnhart '83, '89, '01 retired
in July 2020 as provost and senior vice
president for Academic Affairs at Cal U.
Bruce joined the Cal U faculty in fall 1984 and taught for 24 years in the athletic
training and physical therapist assistant programs. A certified athletic trainer, he was
the athletic trainer for the 1984 football team, which won the PSAC championship,
and the 2004 women's basketball team, which brought home the NCAA Division II
national championship title. He transitioned to University administration in 2008
and spent four years as associate provost and eight years as Cal U’s chief academic
officer. He and his wife, Mary Jo Barnhart ’84, live in Brownsville, Pa. Succeeding
Bruce as chief academic officer is interim provost Dr. Daniel Engstrom, a former
faculty member in the Department of Applied Engineering and Technology, former
associate dean of the College of Education and Human Services, and associate
provost for Academic Success since 2012.
Joseph Sneddon ’04 is deputy state marshal
for the Maine State Marshal Service. He and
Stacy Sneddon live in Phippsburg, Maine.
He studied criminal justice at Cal U.
Dr. Margaret “Maggie” Hardy Knox ’05
received the Pittsburgh Business Times’
2020 Career Achievement Award at its
annual Women of Influence event.
President and CEO of 84 Lumber, she
also oversees Nemacolin Woodlands
Resort in Farmington, Pa.
Robert Nebel ’05 is a managing partner for
Apex Unlimited Services, in Washington, Pa.
Rob and Ashley Nebel ’07 live in Finleyville,
Pa. Rob majored in business administration
at Cal U and was in Phi Kappa Sigma.
Eric Zeznanski ’06,
who majored
in technology
education at Cal U,
is principal and a
football coach at
Chestnut Ridge High
School in Fishertown,
Pa. He and Lauren Keefer Zeznanski ’06, ’07
live in Osterburg, Pa. They have a son,
Odin Joseph.
David Shallenberger ’07 is the lead
forecaster at National Weather Service
(NWS) Pittsburgh. A certified incident
meteorologist, David has served in the
Pennsylvania National Guard since 2001.
Jess Shumar ’07 and Wesley Shumar ’09
live in Chambersburg, Pa. Jess studied
criminal justice at Cal U and was a member
of the Delta Zeta sorority.
Robert John “R.J.” Thompson ’07 was
a winner at the Graphic Design USA 20th
annual Web Design Awards for his video
project, “Pitt Business Backstory.” R.J. is
associate director of student engagement
in the College of Business Administration
at the University of Pittsburgh. He earned
his bachelor’s degree in graphic design
at Cal U.
Angela Bohus-Diaz ’08 is a teacher in the
Clark County School District, in Laughlin,
Nev. She and James Diaz live in Bullhead
City, Ariz. Angie studied elementary
education at Cal U and was active with
the choir, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the
Cal U Call Center. She also gave tours to
incoming students.
10s
Michael Ulderich ’10, an assistant
professor of technology education at Cal U,
was selected to serve on the Pennsylvania
Science and Technology Standards
Rewrite Committee. Michael also used
his 3D-printing skills to produce personal
protective equipment to distribute during
the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, his
wife, Alyssa Schardong ’11, appeared in a
rendition of Tomorrow, featuring Broadway
star Marisha Wallace, as the theater
industry copes with the pandemic.
Nikki Popielarcheck ’11 has been elected
secretary of the Pennsylvania chapter of
the National Association of Graduate
Enrollment Professionals. She is assistant
director of Graduate Admissions at Cal U.
Britney Vokish Knight ’11 is associate
pastor of spiritual formation at First
Presbyterian Church of the Covenant, in Erie,
Pa. She and Zachary Knight ’14 live in Erie.
Britney majored in psychology at Cal U,
where she was in the Honors College and
Alpha Lambda Delta. She participated in
theater and dance activities and was on
the dance team.
Clyde Mealy ’11, who majored in exercise
science and health promotion at Cal U, lives
with Charlotte Mealy in Rancho Mission
Viejo, Calif.
Edward “Ed” Robbins ’11 is a pharmacist for
Associated Food Stores Inc., in West Valley
City, Utah. He and Stephanie Robbins live in
Sandy, Utah. Ed studied exercise science
and health promotion at Cal U.
Nathaniel Dixon ’12 is the founder and
CEO of Smart Growth Advisors, a business
consulting firm in Pittsburgh, Pa. He majored
in communication studies at Cal U, where
he was in Sigma Tau Gamma, the Alumni
Association Board of Directors, the Public
Relations Student Society of America, and
the Interfraternity Council. Nate lives in
Wexford, Pa.
Donte Jay ’12 and Sara Gould live in
Gainesville, Fla. Donte studied electrical
engineering technology and played football
and rugby at Cal U.
Chris Campus ’13 and Laura Campus
live in White Oak, Pa. Chris majored in
mathematics at Cal U and was a member
of Alpha Lambda Delta, Kappa Kappa Psi,
and the marching, jazz and concert bands.
Fran Del Duca ’13, of Sutersville, Pa., is the
founder and CEO of Brideology International
LLC, an online wedding merchandise
boutique. She studied middle-level education
at Cal U and was a member of the Honors
Program, Future Math Teachers, Student
Pennsylvania State Education Association,
Ballroom and Latin Dance Club, Big Brothers
Big Sisters, Student Honors Advisory Board,
Student Government, Leadership Club and
Photography Club. She also was a Cal U
Peer Mentor.
Michael Meehan ’13 is a teacher in the
Wake County Public School System, in
Apex, N.C. He studied education at Cal U
and now lives in Holly Springs, N.C.,
with his wife, Shelby Price.
U.S. Army Capt. Nicholas Granfield ’14
is commander of the Dakota Troop, 1st
Squadron, 2d Cavalry Regiment, in Vilseck,
Germany. He took part in a virtual change-ofcommand ceremony on April 1, 2020.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
MILESTONES
31
Lorene Thornburg ’83 is a litigation
paralegal, legal support manager for the
labor, employment and employee transitions
teams at Charles Schwab & Co. Inc.’s
campus in Lone Tree, Colo. She was a
member of Sigma Kappa sorority.
Melissa Starkes Council ’85, of Pittsburgh,
Pa., teaches second grade at Pittsburgh
Mifflin Elementary School. She majored in
early childhood education, was in the
Young and Gifted Gospel Choir and was
a Kappa Sweetheart.
Derek Clark ’85 is a teacher in the Dearborn
(Mich.) Public Schools. He studied industrial
arts at Cal U.
Paula Tirpak ’86 is a speech-language
pathologist for West Boca Medical Center, in
Boca Raton, Fla. She and Kenneth Tirpak ’85
live in Lake Worth Beach, Fla. Paula studied
speech and language pathology at Cal U
and was in chorus and the Speech and
Hearing Club.
John Bell ’86 is CEO of John P. Bell
Consulting, in Bowie, Md. He and Deitra Bell
live in Bowie. John studied political science
at Cal U, where he participated in football
and fencing.
Gerald “Gerry” Peterson ’86 is founder and
managing principal of Tartan Group LLC. A
commuter student who earned his M.B.A.
through evening classes at Cal U, he and
Karen Peterson live in Murrysville. Pa.
Stephen Woods ’89, of Fairview, Pa., is plant
manager for Erie Forge and Steel Inc. He
studied industrial management,
manufacturing and numerical control at
Cal U. He worked in manufacturing in Erie,
Pa., and Baltimore, Md. He enjoys coaching
youth hockey in his free time.
Janie Walmsley-Wilkerson ’89 is box office
manager at Cal U. She and Jason Wilkerson
live in Rostraver Township, Pa. As a student,
she majored in political science.
CAL U REVIEW
90s
30
Jeff Broadwater ’92, who studied
elementary education at Cal U, is the
owner of Roughcreek Holdings LLC, a
manufacturing company in Frisco, Texas.
Alison Onega ’95 is a teacher from Latrobe,
Pa. She studied elementary and special
education at Cal U.
Sheref Zurga ’95 is a controller for World
Bank Group in Washington, D.C. A resident
of Silver Spring, Md., he studied business
administration at Cal U.
Frank Liu ’95 lives in Taoyuan District,
Taiwan. He studied biology at Cal U.
Catherine Urban Dolfi ’96, an elementary
education major, is supervisor of operations
for Peoples Natural Gas, in Pittsburgh, Pa.
She and Brett Dolfi live in Coal Center, Pa.
Col. Jeffrey McCartney ’96, formerly of
Uniontown, Pa., graduated from the U.S.
Army War College at Carlisle, Pa., with a
master's degree in strategic studies in
June 2020. His next assignment is as
deputy commander with the U.S. Army
Physical Disability Agency, Joint Base
Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
Michael Elphick ’97 is a regional account
manager for Meyn, a global specialist for
poultry processing equipment. He earned his
bachelor’s degree in business administration
at Cal U, where he completed an internship
with Lucent Technologies.
Louise Urban ’98 is senior vice president
of operations for Allegheny Health Network.
A graduate of Cal U’s B.S.N. program, she
was president of both Canonsburg and
Jefferson hospitals.
Jenn Valeriote ’99 and her husband,
Mike Fry, live in Versailles, Ky. She was
a communication studies major at Cal U
and an All-American centerfielder on the
Vulcans’ 1997 and 1998 NCAA Division II
national championship softball teams.
Jenn was also a four-year standout on the
volleyball team.
00s
Marta Allshouse Smith ’00 and Ryan
Smith live in Beaufort, S.C. Marta
studied elementary and special
education at Cal U.
Michelle Senneway ’00, ’04 is the
Pittsburgh area’s lead volunteer for
Pandemic of Love, a mutual-aid
community of volunteers that has
spread across the United States and into
Mexico since its start in March 2020.
Efrain Martinez ’01 is principal of Orozco
Academy in Chicago, Ill. He majored in
Spanish at Cal U and was a member of
the Hispanic Student Association.
Kimberly Krieg ’03 and Keith Krieg live
in Beaufort, S.C. Kimberly majored in
secondary education, English at Cal U
and was in Phi Sigma Pi
IN PRINT
Norman K. Clark ’69 has published his first novel, Into the Endless Mountains, a
mystery/suspense epic set in the mountains of northern Pennsylvania in the 1980s.
Norm is a lawyer and managing partner of an international legal management
consulting firm. A Pittsburgh native, he now lives in Florida.
Mark Hofmann ’02 is the author of Good Mourning!: A Guide to Biting the Big One
… and Dying, Too, a semi-inspirational book of dark comedy. He earned his degree
in creative arts from Cal U and is a reporter and award-winning columnist with the
Uniontown Herald-Standard.
Christopher Kramer ’14 is the author of The Good Things in Life: A Nurse’s Story
of Connection. His book highlights the impact of human connection on his life as a
pediatric nurse, husband, father, son, brother, friend and, stranger still – a human.
He earned his Master of Science in Nursing from Cal U.
Richard A. Ruck, Jr. ’07, ’13 has had his most recent publication, Adaptations to
Police Academy Facilities/Dormitories in a Post Covid-19 Environment, published by
the American Criminal Justice Society in the September 2020 edition of ACJS Today.
He is a professor of criminal justice at East Stroudsburg University and a former
municipal police officer.
TRANSITIONS
Dr. Bruce Barnhart '83, '89, '01 retired
in July 2020 as provost and senior vice
president for Academic Affairs at Cal U.
Bruce joined the Cal U faculty in fall 1984 and taught for 24 years in the athletic
training and physical therapist assistant programs. A certified athletic trainer, he was
the athletic trainer for the 1984 football team, which won the PSAC championship,
and the 2004 women's basketball team, which brought home the NCAA Division II
national championship title. He transitioned to University administration in 2008
and spent four years as associate provost and eight years as Cal U’s chief academic
officer. He and his wife, Mary Jo Barnhart ’84, live in Brownsville, Pa. Succeeding
Bruce as chief academic officer is interim provost Dr. Daniel Engstrom, a former
faculty member in the Department of Applied Engineering and Technology, former
associate dean of the College of Education and Human Services, and associate
provost for Academic Success since 2012.
Joseph Sneddon ’04 is deputy state marshal
for the Maine State Marshal Service. He and
Stacy Sneddon live in Phippsburg, Maine.
He studied criminal justice at Cal U.
Dr. Margaret “Maggie” Hardy Knox ’05
received the Pittsburgh Business Times’
2020 Career Achievement Award at its
annual Women of Influence event.
President and CEO of 84 Lumber, she
also oversees Nemacolin Woodlands
Resort in Farmington, Pa.
Robert Nebel ’05 is a managing partner for
Apex Unlimited Services, in Washington, Pa.
Rob and Ashley Nebel ’07 live in Finleyville,
Pa. Rob majored in business administration
at Cal U and was in Phi Kappa Sigma.
Eric Zeznanski ’06,
who majored
in technology
education at Cal U,
is principal and a
football coach at
Chestnut Ridge High
School in Fishertown,
Pa. He and Lauren Keefer Zeznanski ’06, ’07
live in Osterburg, Pa. They have a son,
Odin Joseph.
David Shallenberger ’07 is the lead
forecaster at National Weather Service
(NWS) Pittsburgh. A certified incident
meteorologist, David has served in the
Pennsylvania National Guard since 2001.
Jess Shumar ’07 and Wesley Shumar ’09
live in Chambersburg, Pa. Jess studied
criminal justice at Cal U and was a member
of the Delta Zeta sorority.
Robert John “R.J.” Thompson ’07 was
a winner at the Graphic Design USA 20th
annual Web Design Awards for his video
project, “Pitt Business Backstory.” R.J. is
associate director of student engagement
in the College of Business Administration
at the University of Pittsburgh. He earned
his bachelor’s degree in graphic design
at Cal U.
Angela Bohus-Diaz ’08 is a teacher in the
Clark County School District, in Laughlin,
Nev. She and James Diaz live in Bullhead
City, Ariz. Angie studied elementary
education at Cal U and was active with
the choir, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the
Cal U Call Center. She also gave tours to
incoming students.
10s
Michael Ulderich ’10, an assistant
professor of technology education at Cal U,
was selected to serve on the Pennsylvania
Science and Technology Standards
Rewrite Committee. Michael also used
his 3D-printing skills to produce personal
protective equipment to distribute during
the COVID-19 pandemic. Meanwhile, his
wife, Alyssa Schardong ’11, appeared in a
rendition of Tomorrow, featuring Broadway
star Marisha Wallace, as the theater
industry copes with the pandemic.
Nikki Popielarcheck ’11 has been elected
secretary of the Pennsylvania chapter of
the National Association of Graduate
Enrollment Professionals. She is assistant
director of Graduate Admissions at Cal U.
Britney Vokish Knight ’11 is associate
pastor of spiritual formation at First
Presbyterian Church of the Covenant, in Erie,
Pa. She and Zachary Knight ’14 live in Erie.
Britney majored in psychology at Cal U,
where she was in the Honors College and
Alpha Lambda Delta. She participated in
theater and dance activities and was on
the dance team.
Clyde Mealy ’11, who majored in exercise
science and health promotion at Cal U, lives
with Charlotte Mealy in Rancho Mission
Viejo, Calif.
Edward “Ed” Robbins ’11 is a pharmacist for
Associated Food Stores Inc., in West Valley
City, Utah. He and Stephanie Robbins live in
Sandy, Utah. Ed studied exercise science
and health promotion at Cal U.
Nathaniel Dixon ’12 is the founder and
CEO of Smart Growth Advisors, a business
consulting firm in Pittsburgh, Pa. He majored
in communication studies at Cal U, where
he was in Sigma Tau Gamma, the Alumni
Association Board of Directors, the Public
Relations Student Society of America, and
the Interfraternity Council. Nate lives in
Wexford, Pa.
Donte Jay ’12 and Sara Gould live in
Gainesville, Fla. Donte studied electrical
engineering technology and played football
and rugby at Cal U.
Chris Campus ’13 and Laura Campus
live in White Oak, Pa. Chris majored in
mathematics at Cal U and was a member
of Alpha Lambda Delta, Kappa Kappa Psi,
and the marching, jazz and concert bands.
Fran Del Duca ’13, of Sutersville, Pa., is the
founder and CEO of Brideology International
LLC, an online wedding merchandise
boutique. She studied middle-level education
at Cal U and was a member of the Honors
Program, Future Math Teachers, Student
Pennsylvania State Education Association,
Ballroom and Latin Dance Club, Big Brothers
Big Sisters, Student Honors Advisory Board,
Student Government, Leadership Club and
Photography Club. She also was a Cal U
Peer Mentor.
Michael Meehan ’13 is a teacher in the
Wake County Public School System, in
Apex, N.C. He studied education at Cal U
and now lives in Holly Springs, N.C.,
with his wife, Shelby Price.
U.S. Army Capt. Nicholas Granfield ’14
is commander of the Dakota Troop, 1st
Squadron, 2d Cavalry Regiment, in Vilseck,
Germany. He took part in a virtual change-ofcommand ceremony on April 1, 2020.
FA L L 2 0 2 0
MILESTONES
31
Joshua Trout ’13
is the chief executive
officer at Select
Hospital, in Camp
Hill, Pa. After earning
his bachelor’s
degree in sports
management at
Cal U, Joshua earned a master’s degree in
healthcare administration at Ohio University.
He is a member of the American College
of Healthcare Executives and a board
member of the American Heart
Association’s National Post-Acute
Care Writing Committee.
Matt Hagy ’15, ’16 has been the sports
information director since 2018 at Albright
College in Reading, Pa. He earned his
bachelor’s degree in communication
studies and his master’s degree in sport
management at Cal U, where he participated
in marching band, CUTV and WCAL, and
was sports editor of the Cal Times.
Danielle Hayes ’16 is the assistant girls’
volleyball coach at Arnold High School, in
Panama City Beach, Fla. At Cal U she was a
two-time all-region selection; she helped the
Vulcans win the 2014 PSAC championship
and make three appearances in the NCAA
Division II Tournament.
Ryan Kaufman ’17 is a news producer
for WCTV in Tallahassee, Fla. He worked
previously at WTAP in Parkersburg, W.Va.
Ryan majored in liberal arts at Cal U and
was active with CUTV.
Lakelyn Denny ’17, ’18 is lead teacher
at New Directions Partial Hospitalization
Program, in Uniontown, Pa. She earned
her bachelor’s degree in early childhood
education and her master’s degree as a
reading specialist at Cal U, where she was
in Sigma Pi Epsilon Delta, Kappa Delta Pi,
the Council for Exceptional Children,
and the Student Pennsylvania State
Education Association.
CAL U REVIEW
Andrew Cohen ’18 is a school psychologist.
He and Rachel Cohen live in Colorado
Springs, Colo.
32
Avonlea Firda ’18, of Pittsburgh, Pa.,
is the managed care administrator for
the Pharmacy Division of Giant Eagle Inc.
Avonlea holds dual degrees from Cal U:
a B.S. in Science and Technology:
Multidisciplinary Studies with a minor
in sociology, and a B.A. in Social Science
with a minor in biology.
ANNIVERSARIES
BIRTHS
Ted Geibel ’60 and Rosemary Geibel ’59
celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary
in June 2020. Ted taught in the Canonsburg
and Butler school districts before becoming
a registered architect. He then worked for
BHKR in Butler, Pa., and Eckels in New
Castle, Pa. Rosemary taught in the Upper
Saint Clair and Butler school districts before
owning a private preschool. The retired
couple now live at St. Barnabas Retirement
Village in Gibsonia, Pa.
KirkRyan McFarland '13, '14 and Valerie
McFarland welcomed their first child,
daughter BrookLyn Grace McFarland,
on Aug. 29, 2020. She weighed 8
pounds and was 19 inches long.
TROPHY TIME
Josh Famularo ’14, a former equipment manager for Cal U’s club hockey team,
poses with trophies (including the famed Stanley Cup) won this fall by the
Tampa Bay Lightning of the NHL. Josh was in charge of equipment logistics for
the Lightning, coordinating deliveries to Edmonton and Toronto, the Canadian
cities that hosted the National Hockey League playoffs in September. Josh studied
business and marketing at Cal U; his dad, Jim, graduated from Cal U in 1984.
James Doman ’18, who studied criminal
justice at Cal U, is a hazmat technician for
Specialized Professional Services Inc. He
and Jill Doman live in Washington, Pa.
Shaina Hilsey ’18, who studied sport
management at Cal U, was accepted to
Harvard's Graduate School of Education
where she’ll pursue an M.Ed. in Higher
Education. As a student, Shaina was a
member of the Board of Governors for
Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher
Education. In 2018 she was one of 10
college women selected to serve on
the American Association of University
Women’s National Student Advisory
Council. She is a policy analyst for the
office of Postsecondary Education at
the U.S. Department of Education.
Ivy Jackson ’18 and Jevone Norman ’18 live
in Coatesville, Pa. Ivy studied early childhood
education at Cal U and was in the Young and
Gifted Gospel Choir, the Black Student Union,
TRIO, Cal U Women United, Kappa Delta Pi
and the Student Pennsylvania State
Education Association.
Evan Johnson ’18 is manager of quality
assurance at the University of Pittsburgh. He
majored in computer information systems at
Cal U and played in the marching band. Evan
and Jill Johnson live in Washington, Pa.
Andrew Kotlar ’18 is operations manager
at 84 Lumber, in Eighty Four, Pa. He studied
sport management at Cal U.
WEDDINGS
Art Figurski ’63 and Pat Figurski '63
celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary
on Aug. 19, 2020. They were the first married
couple to receive the Scholarship Awards in
their respective fields upon graduation, Pat
in mathematics and Art in industrial arts.
Following their teaching careers, they served
together in occupational ministry and now
live in North Carolina.
Gino Wolfe ’18 and Sue Wolfe live in Oak
Harbor, Wash. A mental health clinician,
Gino majored in sociology at Cal U.
Angie Bohus ’08 and James Diaz were
married on December 31, 2019, in
Henderson, Nev. The couple lives in
Bullhead City, Ariz. Both teach in the
Clark County School District.
Wanda Anderson ’19 is a registered nurse
for Miners Medical Center, in Hastings, Pa.
She and Dick Anderson live in Clymer, Pa.
IN MEMORIAM
20s
Alex Arnold ’20 is an interpretive park ranger
at Gateway National Recreation Area, in
Sandy Hook, N.J. He earned degrees in both
history and parks and recreation at Cal U,
where he was a student member of the
Council of Trustees and a member of
Student Government and the Parks and
Recreation Student Society.
Jake Krause ’20, who majored in biology
at Cal U, lives in Washington, Pa.
Michelle Tirado ’20, a retired U.S. Air Force
lieutenant colonel, is the women veterans
program manager for the New Mexico VA
Health Care System in Albuquerque. She
graduated from Cal U with a Master of
Science in Nursing in Nursing Administration
and Leadership.
Robert Suchy ’69 and Sandy Trona Suchy ’69
celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary
on June 6, 2020. The couple, who have
a daughter, Joelle, live in North Myrtle
Beach, S.C.
ENGAGEMENTS
Robert Luckasevic ’16, ’18 and Shelby
Urbine ’17, ’19 are engaged. The couple
met in 2014 while both were members
of the Cal U Marching Band. They plan
to be married in 2021. Bobby is an
account manager for Rainmaker
Polymers LLC. Shelby is interim
assistant director of recreation at
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.
The Hon. Fred C. Adams Sr. ’48
Wayne Alexander ’74
Sandra Ballentyne ’70
Joseph H. Batterby Sr. ’58
Gloria Kathleen Therese Vagnoni Beck ’61
Elaine C. Bender ’52
Dr. William R. Benedetti,* former dean
and emeritus professor of education
John N. Bente ’86
Bonnie McNab Bertini ’88, ’96
Cindy Bohnak ’96
Andrew Cairns ’70
Harold A. Christopher ’60
Azure Dee Mary Kathleen Comedy ’02
Elaine Costello ’64,
emerita professor of chemistry
Donna J. Cox ’72
Ronald Anthony D’Amico ’76
Helen Ciappa Davis ’63
James W. Derrick ’68
Robert Francis Diehl ’64
Ralph “Rick” DiPiazza ’74
Mary E. Donahoo ’68
Sandra J. Dran ’71
Sandra L. Dunn ’75
David B. Evans ’67
Mary Z. Fabian ’85
Nancy M. Farkos ’79
Howard Fields ’64
Andrew Robert Freeman Jr. ’71
Mark M. Hall ’95
Marie K. Harless ’66
Leo R. Hill ’71
Brenda Jennion ’83
Verteree Cole Johnson ’00
Barry L. Jones ’68
Joseph A. Karpa ’82
Kathleen C. Kelemen ’68
Steven M. Kime,* former maintenance
and grounds supervisor
Sandi K. Kindervater ’79
Jeffrey M. Knudson ’92
Kemp W. Konick ’69
Jamie J. Kudas ’89
Deborah S. Lee ’95
Ronald L. Leech ’77
Gail Bronwyn Lese '83, former trustee
Donna Lincavage ’74, ’78
Steven W. Lutska ’83
Marian Cecilia Lynch ’65
Betsy Mechling ’72
Margaret A. Miller ’60
Linda Schneider Mehlman ’68
Leonard Jonathan Moncheck ’72
Myron M. Myrga Sr. ’62
Mary Elizabeth Parr ’74
Perry Anthony Pinto ’69, ’72
Richard Alan Pulig ’86
Mark “Swifty” Puskarich ’74
Marion Claire Ramage-Saeli ’71, ’74
Joyce Arlene Roscoe ’70
Bonita Lee Rymarchyk ’04
Shirley Shipley ’74
The Rev. Mark J. Skertich ’96
Andrew F. Suchko ’59
Robert L. Sumara ’15
Michael S. Tetteris Sr. ’67
P. Ronald Tarullo,* emeritus professor
of business and economics
Michael T. Twardy ’59
Bernard Tychinski ’77
Richard Tylka ’60
Melvin Ujchick ’63
Suzanne Vacheresse ’59
Henry Vogt ’67
Steven R. Westover ’83
Carol Wagner Williams ’63
Candie Todaro Wood ’86
Dr. Peter H. Wright,* emeritus professor
of technology education
Robert J. Ziegler ’83
Paul Zolak ’69, ’73
Katherine D. Zollars ’49
Ronald Zubaty ’77
*No class year available or on file
FA L L 2 0 2 0
MILESTONES
33
Joshua Trout ’13
is the chief executive
officer at Select
Hospital, in Camp
Hill, Pa. After earning
his bachelor’s
degree in sports
management at
Cal U, Joshua earned a master’s degree in
healthcare administration at Ohio University.
He is a member of the American College
of Healthcare Executives and a board
member of the American Heart
Association’s National Post-Acute
Care Writing Committee.
Matt Hagy ’15, ’16 has been the sports
information director since 2018 at Albright
College in Reading, Pa. He earned his
bachelor’s degree in communication
studies and his master’s degree in sport
management at Cal U, where he participated
in marching band, CUTV and WCAL, and
was sports editor of the Cal Times.
Danielle Hayes ’16 is the assistant girls’
volleyball coach at Arnold High School, in
Panama City Beach, Fla. At Cal U she was a
two-time all-region selection; she helped the
Vulcans win the 2014 PSAC championship
and make three appearances in the NCAA
Division II Tournament.
Ryan Kaufman ’17 is a news producer
for WCTV in Tallahassee, Fla. He worked
previously at WTAP in Parkersburg, W.Va.
Ryan majored in liberal arts at Cal U and
was active with CUTV.
Lakelyn Denny ’17, ’18 is lead teacher
at New Directions Partial Hospitalization
Program, in Uniontown, Pa. She earned
her bachelor’s degree in early childhood
education and her master’s degree as a
reading specialist at Cal U, where she was
in Sigma Pi Epsilon Delta, Kappa Delta Pi,
the Council for Exceptional Children,
and the Student Pennsylvania State
Education Association.
CAL U REVIEW
Andrew Cohen ’18 is a school psychologist.
He and Rachel Cohen live in Colorado
Springs, Colo.
32
Avonlea Firda ’18, of Pittsburgh, Pa.,
is the managed care administrator for
the Pharmacy Division of Giant Eagle Inc.
Avonlea holds dual degrees from Cal U:
a B.S. in Science and Technology:
Multidisciplinary Studies with a minor
in sociology, and a B.A. in Social Science
with a minor in biology.
ANNIVERSARIES
BIRTHS
Ted Geibel ’60 and Rosemary Geibel ’59
celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary
in June 2020. Ted taught in the Canonsburg
and Butler school districts before becoming
a registered architect. He then worked for
BHKR in Butler, Pa., and Eckels in New
Castle, Pa. Rosemary taught in the Upper
Saint Clair and Butler school districts before
owning a private preschool. The retired
couple now live at St. Barnabas Retirement
Village in Gibsonia, Pa.
KirkRyan McFarland '13, '14 and Valerie
McFarland welcomed their first child,
daughter BrookLyn Grace McFarland,
on Aug. 29, 2020. She weighed 8
pounds and was 19 inches long.
TROPHY TIME
Josh Famularo ’14, a former equipment manager for Cal U’s club hockey team,
poses with trophies (including the famed Stanley Cup) won this fall by the
Tampa Bay Lightning of the NHL. Josh was in charge of equipment logistics for
the Lightning, coordinating deliveries to Edmonton and Toronto, the Canadian
cities that hosted the National Hockey League playoffs in September. Josh studied
business and marketing at Cal U; his dad, Jim, graduated from Cal U in 1984.
James Doman ’18, who studied criminal
justice at Cal U, is a hazmat technician for
Specialized Professional Services Inc. He
and Jill Doman live in Washington, Pa.
Shaina Hilsey ’18, who studied sport
management at Cal U, was accepted to
Harvard's Graduate School of Education
where she’ll pursue an M.Ed. in Higher
Education. As a student, Shaina was a
member of the Board of Governors for
Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher
Education. In 2018 she was one of 10
college women selected to serve on
the American Association of University
Women’s National Student Advisory
Council. She is a policy analyst for the
office of Postsecondary Education at
the U.S. Department of Education.
Ivy Jackson ’18 and Jevone Norman ’18 live
in Coatesville, Pa. Ivy studied early childhood
education at Cal U and was in the Young and
Gifted Gospel Choir, the Black Student Union,
TRIO, Cal U Women United, Kappa Delta Pi
and the Student Pennsylvania State
Education Association.
Evan Johnson ’18 is manager of quality
assurance at the University of Pittsburgh. He
majored in computer information systems at
Cal U and played in the marching band. Evan
and Jill Johnson live in Washington, Pa.
Andrew Kotlar ’18 is operations manager
at 84 Lumber, in Eighty Four, Pa. He studied
sport management at Cal U.
WEDDINGS
Art Figurski ’63 and Pat Figurski '63
celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary
on Aug. 19, 2020. They were the first married
couple to receive the Scholarship Awards in
their respective fields upon graduation, Pat
in mathematics and Art in industrial arts.
Following their teaching careers, they served
together in occupational ministry and now
live in North Carolina.
Gino Wolfe ’18 and Sue Wolfe live in Oak
Harbor, Wash. A mental health clinician,
Gino majored in sociology at Cal U.
Angie Bohus ’08 and James Diaz were
married on December 31, 2019, in
Henderson, Nev. The couple lives in
Bullhead City, Ariz. Both teach in the
Clark County School District.
Wanda Anderson ’19 is a registered nurse
for Miners Medical Center, in Hastings, Pa.
She and Dick Anderson live in Clymer, Pa.
IN MEMORIAM
20s
Alex Arnold ’20 is an interpretive park ranger
at Gateway National Recreation Area, in
Sandy Hook, N.J. He earned degrees in both
history and parks and recreation at Cal U,
where he was a student member of the
Council of Trustees and a member of
Student Government and the Parks and
Recreation Student Society.
Jake Krause ’20, who majored in biology
at Cal U, lives in Washington, Pa.
Michelle Tirado ’20, a retired U.S. Air Force
lieutenant colonel, is the women veterans
program manager for the New Mexico VA
Health Care System in Albuquerque. She
graduated from Cal U with a Master of
Science in Nursing in Nursing Administration
and Leadership.
Robert Suchy ’69 and Sandy Trona Suchy ’69
celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary
on June 6, 2020. The couple, who have
a daughter, Joelle, live in North Myrtle
Beach, S.C.
ENGAGEMENTS
Robert Luckasevic ’16, ’18 and Shelby
Urbine ’17, ’19 are engaged. The couple
met in 2014 while both were members
of the Cal U Marching Band. They plan
to be married in 2021. Bobby is an
account manager for Rainmaker
Polymers LLC. Shelby is interim
assistant director of recreation at
Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.
The Hon. Fred C. Adams Sr. ’48
Wayne Alexander ’74
Sandra Ballentyne ’70
Joseph H. Batterby Sr. ’58
Gloria Kathleen Therese Vagnoni Beck ’61
Elaine C. Bender ’52
Dr. William R. Benedetti,* former dean
and emeritus professor of education
John N. Bente ’86
Bonnie McNab Bertini ’88, ’96
Cindy Bohnak ’96
Andrew Cairns ’70
Harold A. Christopher ’60
Azure Dee Mary Kathleen Comedy ’02
Elaine Costello ’64,
emerita professor of chemistry
Donna J. Cox ’72
Ronald Anthony D’Amico ’76
Helen Ciappa Davis ’63
James W. Derrick ’68
Robert Francis Diehl ’64
Ralph “Rick” DiPiazza ’74
Mary E. Donahoo ’68
Sandra J. Dran ’71
Sandra L. Dunn ’75
David B. Evans ’67
Mary Z. Fabian ’85
Nancy M. Farkos ’79
Howard Fields ’64
Andrew Robert Freeman Jr. ’71
Mark M. Hall ’95
Marie K. Harless ’66
Leo R. Hill ’71
Brenda Jennion ’83
Verteree Cole Johnson ’00
Barry L. Jones ’68
Joseph A. Karpa ’82
Kathleen C. Kelemen ’68
Steven M. Kime,* former maintenance
and grounds supervisor
Sandi K. Kindervater ’79
Jeffrey M. Knudson ’92
Kemp W. Konick ’69
Jamie J. Kudas ’89
Deborah S. Lee ’95
Ronald L. Leech ’77
Gail Bronwyn Lese '83, former trustee
Donna Lincavage ’74, ’78
Steven W. Lutska ’83
Marian Cecilia Lynch ’65
Betsy Mechling ’72
Margaret A. Miller ’60
Linda Schneider Mehlman ’68
Leonard Jonathan Moncheck ’72
Myron M. Myrga Sr. ’62
Mary Elizabeth Parr ’74
Perry Anthony Pinto ’69, ’72
Richard Alan Pulig ’86
Mark “Swifty” Puskarich ’74
Marion Claire Ramage-Saeli ’71, ’74
Joyce Arlene Roscoe ’70
Bonita Lee Rymarchyk ’04
Shirley Shipley ’74
The Rev. Mark J. Skertich ’96
Andrew F. Suchko ’59
Robert L. Sumara ’15
Michael S. Tetteris Sr. ’67
P. Ronald Tarullo,* emeritus professor
of business and economics
Michael T. Twardy ’59
Bernard Tychinski ’77
Richard Tylka ’60
Melvin Ujchick ’63
Suzanne Vacheresse ’59
Henry Vogt ’67
Steven R. Westover ’83
Carol Wagner Williams ’63
Candie Todaro Wood ’86
Dr. Peter H. Wright,* emeritus professor
of technology education
Robert J. Ziegler ’83
Paul Zolak ’69, ’73
Katherine D. Zollars ’49
Ronald Zubaty ’77
*No class year available or on file
FA L L 2 0 2 0
MILESTONES
33
ONLINE READERS:
The Cal U Review is published online at
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digital magazine ONLY, please let us know!
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250 University Ave., Box 89,
California, PA 15419.
NAME
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square Yes, list my email on the Cal U website.
ADDRESS
Dr. Melanie Blumberg died June 4, 2020, shortly after she
retired from the history department, where she had taught
political science since 2001. She was campus director of the
American Democracy Project and a tireless advocate for civic
and voter engagement.
Mel was the recipient of Cal U's Faculty Professional
Development Merit Award for Research, the Student
Government Community Eagle Award, the President's Gala
Award for Service, the Alumni Association's C.B. Wilson
Distinguished Faculty Award, the President's Commission
on the Status of Women Woman of the Year Award for
Faculty, and the Caryl J. Sheffield Faculty Excellence Award
for Mentoring and Diversity Leadership.
Leo T. Krantz died Sept. 21, 2020, at the age of 80. He was
a former chair and member of the University’s Council of
Trustees, serving two six-year terms from 1999-2012. He
also held leadership roles in PACT, the Pennsylvania
Association of Councils of Trustees.
Leo received the Dixonians Award, one of the Foundation
for California University’s most prestigious honors. It is named
for John N. Dixon, who served on the Board of Trustees in the
school’s early years.
Carolyn Ruth Eberly Blaney ’06 died May 8, 2020. Carolyn was
well known in the Uniontown community for her philanthropic
endeavors. As a past president and trustee of the Eberly Foundation,
and as a trustee of the Eberly Family Charitable Trust, she was
instrumental in providing numerous gifts, including a $2.5 million
gift to Cal U for the Eberly Science and Technology Building,
which opened in 1999.
At the 1996 Spring Commencement she received the
Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, and in 2006 the
“black box” theater in Steele Hall was named the Carolyn
and Gerald Blaney Theatre.
Dr. Richard G. Cavasina died July 6, 2020. He taught for 30
years in the Psychology Department and retired in 2012. Cavasina
participated in many academic and scholastic publications for
university and medical applications, as well as research projects
for inner-city youth.
OCCUPATION
EMPLOYER
SPOUSE'S / PARTNER’S NAME
REMEMBRANCES
CLASS YEAR
Milestones are published as space
and deadlines allow. Please email highquality images to revieweditor@calu.edu
using “Milestones Photo” as the subject
line. Be sure to tell us your name, year
of graduation, University activities or
sports you participated in, and the identity
of everyone in the photo. Please do not
send printouts or low-resolution digital
photos, as they will not reproduce well.
He was the recipient of Cal U's Faculty Professional Development
Merit Award for Service, the Dixonians Award from the Foundation
for Cal U, and the President’s Faculty Award. He was also a
member of Cal U’s Robert M. Steele Society. He discussed his
experience as a liver transplant recipient as a Noss Lecture Series
speaker in 2014.
Dr. Anthony “Tony” Lazzaro ’55 died May 15, 2020. An emeritus
professor and a lifetime honorary member of the Cal Alumni
Board of Directors, he taught chemistry and astronomy for
35 years and was active with the Science Olympiad, which
holds regional competitions at Cal U.
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lock your story and bu
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In retirement, he was involved with the Association of
Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties and the
Cal-Ed Federal Credit Union. He also served a term on the
Centerville Borough Council.
Start Your Story at calu.edu/graduate
ONLINE READERS:
The Cal U Review is published online at
calu.edu/review. If you prefer to read the
digital magazine ONLY, please let us know!
Email alumni@calu.edu or check this box,
complete the info below and return by mail.
NO PRINT, please.
I prefer to read the
Review online only.
KEEP IN TOUCH!
SEND MILESTONES NEWS,
ADDRESS CHANGES OR
YOUR ‘READ ONLINE ONLY’
REQUEST TO:
Office of Alumni Relations
California University of Pennsylvania
250 University Ave., Box 89,
California, PA 15419.
NAME
MAIDEN NAME
CLASS YEAR
square Yes, list my email on the Cal U website.
ADDRESS
Dr. Melanie Blumberg died June 4, 2020, shortly after she
retired from the history department, where she had taught
political science since 2001. She was campus director of the
American Democracy Project and a tireless advocate for civic
and voter engagement.
Mel was the recipient of Cal U's Faculty Professional
Development Merit Award for Research, the Student
Government Community Eagle Award, the President's Gala
Award for Service, the Alumni Association's C.B. Wilson
Distinguished Faculty Award, the President's Commission
on the Status of Women Woman of the Year Award for
Faculty, and the Caryl J. Sheffield Faculty Excellence Award
for Mentoring and Diversity Leadership.
Leo T. Krantz died Sept. 21, 2020, at the age of 80. He was
a former chair and member of the University’s Council of
Trustees, serving two six-year terms from 1999-2012. He
also held leadership roles in PACT, the Pennsylvania
Association of Councils of Trustees.
Leo received the Dixonians Award, one of the Foundation
for California University’s most prestigious honors. It is named
for John N. Dixon, who served on the Board of Trustees in the
school’s early years.
Carolyn Ruth Eberly Blaney ’06 died May 8, 2020. Carolyn was
well known in the Uniontown community for her philanthropic
endeavors. As a past president and trustee of the Eberly Foundation,
and as a trustee of the Eberly Family Charitable Trust, she was
instrumental in providing numerous gifts, including a $2.5 million
gift to Cal U for the Eberly Science and Technology Building,
which opened in 1999.
At the 1996 Spring Commencement she received the
Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, and in 2006 the
“black box” theater in Steele Hall was named the Carolyn
and Gerald Blaney Theatre.
Dr. Richard G. Cavasina died July 6, 2020. He taught for 30
years in the Psychology Department and retired in 2012. Cavasina
participated in many academic and scholastic publications for
university and medical applications, as well as research projects
for inner-city youth.
OCCUPATION
EMPLOYER
SPOUSE'S / PARTNER’S NAME
REMEMBRANCES
CLASS YEAR
Milestones are published as space
and deadlines allow. Please email highquality images to revieweditor@calu.edu
using “Milestones Photo” as the subject
line. Be sure to tell us your name, year
of graduation, University activities or
sports you participated in, and the identity
of everyone in the photo. Please do not
send printouts or low-resolution digital
photos, as they will not reproduce well.
He was the recipient of Cal U's Faculty Professional Development
Merit Award for Service, the Dixonians Award from the Foundation
for Cal U, and the President’s Faculty Award. He was also a
member of Cal U’s Robert M. Steele Society. He discussed his
experience as a liver transplant recipient as a Noss Lecture Series
speaker in 2014.
Dr. Anthony “Tony” Lazzaro ’55 died May 15, 2020. An emeritus
professor and a lifetime honorary member of the Cal Alumni
Board of Directors, he taught chemistry and astronomy for
35 years and was active with the Science Olympiad, which
holds regional competitions at Cal U.
ng things.
zi
a
m
a
o
d
to
r
e
w
o
p
e
You have th
l U opens the
uate programs, Ca
With more than 95 grad
ild
lock your story and bu
Un
t.
en
em
nc
va
ad
er
re
door to ca
your future at Cal U.
In retirement, he was involved with the Association of
Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties and the
Cal-Ed Federal Credit Union. He also served a term on the
Centerville Borough Council.
Start Your Story at calu.edu/graduate
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ALL DONE!
Todd Pinkham, a professor in Cal U’s art
department, worked through the summer
and fall semesters to complete a large
mural with the help of the Cal U Art
Club. The artwork covers both sides of
a highway underpass in Fredericktown,
Pa., and serves as a gateway to the
Monongahela River Water Trail and boat
launch. See images from the project
online at calu.edu/review.
Media of