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California University
Volume 21, Number 9 JUNE 17, 2019
KEEP UP WITH CAL U NEWS ONLINE: calu.edu/news
Speaker to Grads: Author Your Own Story
A
ppropriately, the
Commencement speaker’s
address focused on a story.
“Every graduate in the audience
today can be the hero of their own
story,” said Terence Carter, executive
vice president of drama and comedy
development for Twentieth Century Fox.
More than 1,200 students
graduated from Cal U at the 188th
Commencement. Graduate and
undergraduate ceremonies were held
May 10-11 in the Convocation Center.
“Take inventory of the knowledge
you accumulated at Cal,” Carter said.
“Decide what of it is most important to
you, and commit yourself to weave it
into your story moving forward.
“You are all staring at a blank sheet
of paper upon which to write the story
of the rest of your life, in all of its
potential glory and possible splendor.”
Carter is also the great-greatgrandson of Elizabeth “Jennie” Adams
Carter, Class of 1881, California’s first
African-American graduate. Her photo
and related artifacts are displayed in
Carter residence hall, which also houses
Cal U’s Multicultural Center. Each year
the University presents its Jennie Carter
Award to an individual who exemplifies
her indomitable spirit.
“She wasn’t handed an easy life,
but she overcame adversity to grow
into a woman of intellect, strength and
determination,” Carter said. “Jennie
started on a path to help those whom
she believed were entitled to more than
society would readily give them.”
President Geraldine M. Jones greeted
each of the new graduates personally
Excited undergraduates gather on the Quad.
and offered them heartfelt advice.
“Please know that I am also very
proud of each of you for your hard work
and the sacrifices you have made to
reach this point,” she said. “Take in the
moment, and savor your success. You
have worked hard, you have persevered,
and you have accomplished something
significant."
Crafting Their Script
Mary Fritz, chair of the Senior Gift
Drive Committee, presented
President Jones with a check for more
than $11,000 contributed by graduating
seniors and their families.
Fritz earned her undergraduate
degrees in criminal justice and
sociology with a minor in deviance.
While pursuing a master’s degree in
sociology she is working with T.W.
Ponessa Counseling Services, where she
interned at last summer through a Cal U
scholarship.
“Cal U has taught me the leadership
skills I needed to excel in my internship,
which resulted in a job,” she said. “I was
overwhelmed walking across the stage
because all of the hard work that we, as
seniors, have put into our classes, clubs,
and community has paid off.”
Austin Owens earned a dual degree
in management and marketing.
Owens accepted an inside sales
associate position with Bisnow Media in
— Continued on page 2
Sales ‘Brisk’ for Bow
Ties & Pearls Ball
O
Makayla Froseth, a geology major, and Dr. Daniel Harris work with mapping software.
T
Cal U Receives Grants
for Geology Software
he geology program at
California University of
Pennsylvania has received three
grants totaling $23.5 million.
The funds will be used for software
that integrates geoscience, geophysics
and engineering assessments.
Students who earn a Bachelor of
Science in Geology at Cal U will use the
software for mapping, data management,
reservoir modeling, well-planning,
borehole positioning, and geophysical
seismic analysis.
Energy and environmental companies
are among those that employ geologists.
— Continued on page 3
nly a handful of tickets remain
for the Bow Ties & Pearls Ball,
Cal U’s signature fundraiser.
New this year, the formal affair on
June 29 supports legacy projects on
campus and scholarships for Cal U
students.
“Ticket sales have been brisk,”
said Tony Mauro, vice president for
University Development and Alumni
Relations. “Thanks to the generous
support of our sponsors and guests,
we expect this to be a very successful
event.”
The ball will be held in the
Convocation Center arena, which will
be transformed into an elegant “red
carpet” venue. Cocktail hour begins at
6 p.m., with dinner from 7-11 p.m.
The menu includes a choice of
Berkshire Long-bone Pork Chop, OvenRoasted Striped Sea Bass or Vegetarian
Napoleon.
Andrew Stockey, of WTAE-TV,
and Melanie Taylor, of 100.7 STAR
FM radio, will introduce University
President Geraldine Jones and
serve as emcees for the evening.
The program includes recognition
of the Cal U Athletic Hall of Fame’s
2019 inductees and presentation of the
Lillian M. Bassi Core Values Award,
one of the University’s most prestigious
honors.
After dinner, guests can enjoy a
sumptuous Viennese Table dessert
bar, photo booth, dancing and other
entertainment. Music will be provided
by the Bachelor Boys Band.
A silent auction will be held, also to
support scholarships for Cal U students.
Guests can bid on items including gift
baskets and sports memorabilia.
“I’m looking forward to a wonderful
evening with our Cal U family, alumni
and University friends,” said
President Jones. “The knowledge that
we are raising scholarship funds makes
this a truly special event.”
Ticket price for the Bow Ties &
Pearls Ball is $150 per person. Deadline
for purchase is June 21. Tickets are
available online at calu.edu/bowtiesball
or by calling 724-938-4418.
Page 2
JUNE 17, 2019
Society
Recognizes
Human
Resource
Program
C
Members of the first class to graduate with a Doctor of Criminal Justice and program instructors gather at Watkins Hall before Commencement.
First D.C.J. Class Graduates
C
al U celebrated along with 19
students who earned their Doctor
of Criminal Justice during the
188th Commencement ceremony on
May 10.
The accelerated, 42-credit hour
program focused on criminal justice
reform with an emphasis on effective
policing, criminal investigation and
rehabilitation; avoiding wrongful
convictions; and observing civil rights.
Students passed comprehensive
examinations and complete doctoral
research portfolios. They also underwent
an instructor development course, which
is recognized in Pennsylvania by the
Municipal Police Officers’ Education
and Training Commission.
Cal U’s D.C.J. is the first regionally
accredited professional doctorate in
criminal justice in the country and is
recognized by the U.S. Department of
Education.
“It’s an intense program, but very
practical,” said LaLinda McMillan
Street, an English professor at Prince
George’s County (Md.) Community
College. “My goal is to get back to my
passion, which is to teach criminal
justice courses,” she said.
Rodger Perkins earned his master’s
degree in legal studies from Cal U in
2008 and is a security consultant after
a career in the U.S. Air Force, most
recently at the Pentagon.
“I’ve always been interested in
jurisprudence,” Perkins said. “I want to
get into teaching so that I can mentor
the next generation of law enforcement
officers.”
Keeping career options open was
the goal for Kirstie Bruno Stark, who
works for Fayette County (Pa.) Adult
Probation. She earned bachelor’s and
master’s degrees from Cal U, in criminal
justice and criminal justice studies.
“I’m ‘Cal Who, Cal U’ all the way,”
she said. “The sky’s the limit. This opens
up so many options; maybe one day I’ll
want to work for the FBI. I forged so
many friendships for a lifetime in this
program.”
“This program attracts leaders in
policing, federal agents, corrections,
probation and parole, research,
investigations and academics,” said
Dr. John Cencich, professor and director
of criminal justice graduate programs at
Cal U.
“I told this first cohort two years ago
that they would pave the way. The third
cohort starts in a few weeks and is even
bigger and broader.”
Tim Malfitano is retired as
deputy director of public safety in
Jacksonville, N.C. He’s an assistant
professor of criminology and sociology
at the University of Mount Olive. He
starts law school in January.
“If you want to market yourself,
get this degree,” he said. “We should
learn all the time as adults. I wanted
something that would let me teach
young adults how to research and
fact-find.
“The program has the right amount
of theory and research. It’s the right mix
of ‘research’ and ‘real.’”
Graduates: Author Your Own Story
— Continued from page 1
New York and started June 3.
“Graduating is awesome, and four years ago I never
expected to do all the things that I’ve done here,” he said.
“Many people have helped me here, which is cool. I’m
incredibly excited to do something new and experience what’s
next.”
Steve Ruffing, who earned his degree in communication
studies with a concentration in radio and television, said he
thought about his four years during his brief walk across the
stage in a familiar venue.
The president of CUTV, he covered many Vulcans games
while serving as a camera operator, producer, host, reporter
and anchor.
“I can’t express my gratitude toward Cal U enough for
giving me the tools to succeed,” said Ruffing. “I’ve gained so
much knowledge and experience from this school, it’s hard to
put into words. I am so thankful for my time here.”
Commencement ceremonies began May 10, when doctoral
and master’s degree candidates received their diplomas and
were vested in their academic hoods. Nineteen students
became the first cohort to graduate from Cal U’s Doctor of
Criminal Justice program. Undergraduates received their
bachelor’s and associate degrees May 11.
Amy Martinek, of Johnstown, earned her Master of
Social Work on May 10 after achieving her Bachelor of
Social Work in 2016. She works as a therapeutic staff support
for Children’s Behavioral Health, and her master’s degree
will help her advance at work and prepare for the state
counseling license exam.
“It was a two-hour drive every Tuesday or Wednesday
Terence Carter addresses Cal U’s Class of 2019.
night for two years, but I’m so relieved it’s done, and I loved
my program and professors,” she said.
Brett Mohney, a unit director at UPMC Mercy, earned his
Master of Science in Nursing.
“I was very impressed and pleasantly surprised” he said of
the online degree experience. “This is a big accomplishment,
which took a of sacrifice, and it’s very nice to come here and
make the physical connection with the place I earned this
degree.”
Daniel Arnold, a chief warrant officer and mechanic in the
U.S. Army stationed in North Carolina, earned his master’s
degree in exercise science and health promotion.
“I learned quite a bit about rehabilitation, performance
enhancement and injury prevention,” he said during his first
visit to Cal U. “I am looking to change my career and moving
into occupational therapy.”
alifornia University of
Pennsylvania is now among
a select group of colleges and
universities whose programming in
human resource management is aligned
with education standards defined
by the Society for Human Resource
Management (SHRM), the world’s
largest professional society for human
resources.
SHRM recognition affirms that
Cal U’s undergraduate curriculum meets
the society’s standards for quality and
professionalism. Throughout the world,
SHRM has acknowledged that 440
programs in 331 educational institutions
align with its suggested templates and
guides.
Typically, years of professional
experience are required for an
individual to earn SHRM certification,
a respected credential within the human
resources industry. But through the
university’s affiliation with SHRM,
students in good academic standing at
Cal U may apply to sit for the SHRMCP certification exam in their final
year of study for the B.A. in Human
Resource Management, providing
they have completed 500 hours of
eligible work experience through a
human resources-related internship or
employment.
To help students prepare for the
rigorous exam, Cal U will offer a
3-credit certification preparation course
for seniors, beginning this fall.
“SHRM certification is the
industry standard,” says
Dr. Stephanie Adam, an associate
professor in Cal U’s Department of
Business and
Economics, and
a SHRM certified
instructor. “It attests
to expertise in the
complex practice
of human resource
management.
“Adding this
certification would
certainly make a
Dr. Stephanie Adam
graduate’s resume
stand out.”
Human resources professionals,
including current SHRM members, also
may prepare for the SHRM certification
exam at Cal U. They may enroll now
as non-degree students and register for
HRM 410, “SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP
Certification Preparation.” Classes
will be offered in a hybrid (online and
on-campus) format from 4-5:15 p.m.
Mondays and Wednesdays during the
Fall 2019 semester.
“We want to make this class
as convenient as possible for HR
professionals already working in the
field,” Adam says. “This is one more
example of how Cal U empowers
students to build the successful future
they envision.”
For more information about Cal U’s
B.A. in Human Resource Management
or the SHRM certification preparation
course, contact Dr. Stephanie Adam at
adam@calu.edu.
JUNE 17, 2019
Page 3
Trustees Updated on
Strategic Planning
N
oting that a strategic plan
is “essential to the long-term
growth and evolution of
any University,” President
Geraldine M. Jones provided an update
on the strategic
planning process
at the June
5 meeting of
the Council of
Trustees.
Cal U’s
current five-year
strategic plan
has been in place
since 2015.
To build on its
success for
2020-2025, the President has formed
a steering committee to integrate the
recommendations and conclusions that
emerged from workshops organized
by Carnegie Dartlet and two campus
climate surveys.
“I’m charging the Strategic
Planning Steering Committee with
developing a vision and setting
actionable institutional goals and
objectives for the University over the
next five years,” said President Jones.
Those goals, she said, will address
assessment and evaluation of
Cal U’s academic offerings; developing
approaches to meet enrollment
goals; fostering a culture of open
communication, engagement and
inclusivity; and maximizing facility use
through effective space utilization and
program demand analyses.
Four working groups representing
a variety of disciplines will develop
strategies and tactics for achieving the
goals. Once the committees’ work is
integrated to create a draft strategic
plan, the Deans/Provost Council,
APSCUF Meet and Discuss, Staff
and Leadership Council, Student
Government, College Councils, and
Faculty Senate will be asked to provide
additional feedback, comments
and revisions.
“The entire campus community will
be actively involved as we work to guide
Cal U to new levels of excellence,”
President Jones said.
She expects to present a final
strategic plan to the Council of Trustees
in December.
Following her report, the President
proposed a resolution of appreciation
for former trustee Annette Ganassi, who
concluded her term in April. Ganassi, a
Somerset county businesswoman, held
a seat on the panel from 1994-2000 and
returned to the council in 2009. She
had served as council chair for the past
two years.
The proposal passed unanimously.
“Annette did a wonderful job,” said
Jim Davis ’73, acting chair. “All of us
admired her energy, commitment and
efforts on behalf of the Trustees and
California University.”
In other business:
• Dr. Bruce Barnhart, provost and
senior vice president for Academic
Affairs, introduced T. David Garcia,
who joined the University in March
as vice president for Enrollment
Management.
Garcia reported that Cal U
expects to exceed its fall 2019
enrollment goal for first-year students.
However, summer enrollment has
slipped by 1.3%, compared to last year,
and an overall 7% decrease in
full-time equivalency (FTE) enrollment
is anticipated this fall.
Barnhart described academic
programs in
molecular biology
and veterinary
technology that
are beginning
this fall. He also
reported that
the University
received $12.5
million in grants,
contracts and
in-kind-gifts in the
2018-2019 fiscal year.
• Robert Thorn, vice president for
Administration and Finance, received
approval for a revised five-year capital
spending plan. It continues to prioritize
construction of a new science building
to replace Frich and New Science halls,
but adds demolition of Azorsky Hall as
the No. 2 priority. State funding would
pay for both projects.
Thorn also reported that renovations
at Coover Hall and Lilley Field are
nearly complete; both will be used
this fall.
• Dr. Nancy Pinardi, vice
president for Student Affairs,
introduced Donna George, a Cal U
employee and coordinator for the State
System’s Alcohol and Other Drug
Coalition.
In existence since 2003, the coalition
implements strategies to reduce
dangerous drinking and drug abuse on
all 14 System campuses.
George explained that Cal U
is the pilot location for using SBIRT —
the Screening, Brief Intervention, and
Referral to Treatment program — with
students who visit university health
centers. The voluntary program,
most commonly used in clinical
settings, includes screenings and
consultation regarding drug and
alcohol use.
The project is funded through a
$175,000 grant from the Pennsylvania
Commission on Crime and
Delinquency.
“Cal U has been a pioneer in this
program,” George said. “You should be
very proud.”
• Christine Kindl, vice president
for Communications and Marketing,
highlighted her area’s production and
reach during the past academic year.
Among noteworthy statistics: 3,294
radio and 108 television spots aired, and
digital ads garnered 42.2 million views.
Some 240 news stories were posted on
the Cal U website, and more than 3,000
unique stories about the University
appeared in print. The calu.edu website
had 6.17 million pageviews, including
112,853 for the application page alone.
The team completed more than 900
creative projects, including 20
feature videos.
• Tony Mauro, vice president for
University Development and Alumni
Relations, reported that his office has
raised nearly $3.7 million in donations,
which includes more than $2.1 million
in cash donations, so far in fiscal year
2018-2019. Both of these totals are the
second highest in the past seven years.
The Trustees are scheduled to meet
again Sept. 18.
President Geraldine Jones enjoys a moment with faculty merit award recipients
Dr. Kyle Fredrick (left), Dr. Rosalie Smiley and Dr. Craig Smith.
Presidential Merit
Awards Bestowed
T
hree outstanding California
University faculty members
who contribute to student
success have received Presidential
Distinguished Merit Awards.
Award recipients Dr. Kyle Fredrick,
Dr. Rosalie Smiley, and Dr. Craig
Smith were recognized during the
May 10 Graduate Commencement
ceremony and received a medallion
they wore over their academic regalia,
plus a scholarship to be awarded to a
student in each recipient’s discipline.
Fredrick, a professor in the
Department of Earth Sciences, was
honored for excellence in teaching.
He is an expert in hydrology and
groundwater modeling.
His courses teach students to
address water quality concerns and
improve environmental conditions in
our communities.
Fredrick is involved with research
projects involving students, including
monitoring local streams to improve
water quality and mitigate flooding
hazards.
Fredrick also leads annual field
trips to the great geologic sites of
the United States to encourage
outdoor experiences and improve
students’ understanding of the
natural world.
A professor in the Department
of Social Work, Smiley was honored
for excellence in service.
She teaches in the MSW program
and supervises students in their field
placements.
Throughout her career as a
licensed social worker, Smiley has
served countless families and children,
often in underserved, low-income
communities.
At the University, Smiley has
assisted with two departmental
reaccreditations; she also serves on the
MSW Program Committee, advises
the Graduate Social Work Students
Association and is active in the
Frederick Douglass Institute at
Cal U.
Smith, a professor in the
Department of History, Politics,
Society and Law, was honored for
excellence in research. His research
focuses on the work of the Supreme
Court and its justices, and how legal
decisions impact people’s lives.
Smith is the author of Failing
Justice: Charles Evans Whittaker on the
Supreme Court (McFarland, 2005.) He
has contributed chapters to several
books, and his research led to several
articles for the Journal of Supreme
Court History.
Smith continues to work on a new
biography of Justice Tom C. Clark.
Cal U Receives Three Grants
for Geology Software
— Continued from page 1
These experts are critical to the
identification, mapping and extraction
of both energy and mineral resources.
They also play key roles in developing
land for new construction or remediation
strategies.
Collecting data is step one. Step two
— converting it into charts, graphs, 3D
models and other analytical information
— requires powerful software.
“It’s a huge boon for our students
to be able to say they have some
experience with Petrel, Kingdom or
GeoGraphix (software solutions),”
says Dr. Daniel Harris, assistant
professor of geology at Cal U.
“They are all used across a variety of
industries.
“Training on these competitive
software packages will provide students
with the opportunity to develop skills
desired by the oil and gas, geotechnical,
and engineering sectors.”
Cal U’s B.S. in Geology is
distinguished by its focus on professional
development. A broad foundation of
coursework, plus field courses and other
hands-on learning, prepares students for
potential licensure in Pennsylvania and
most other U.S. states. Learn more about
geology and other Cal U programs at
calu.edu/academics.
Page 4
S
JUNE 17, 2019
State
System
Honors
Pinardi
Staff Honored at Luncheon
ervice milestones from five to 35
years were recognized at the Staff
Recognition Luncheon held
May 30 in the Natali Performance
Center.
“I want you to know that the vice
presidents and I appreciate
your dedication and commitment to
serving this wonderful institution
and most importantly our students,”
said University President
Geraldine M. Jones.
“We have a wonderful staff here at
Cal U, and I understand all that you
do on a daily basis in order to make
this University run efficiently and
effectively.”
Alumna Mary Paula Birkinsha, an
assistant in Manderino Library, was the
35-year honoree.
She has served several positions in
the circulation/reserve area, and part
of her current role includes hiring and
coordinating 55 student workers and two
graduate assistants each academic year.
“I really enjoy the students day-today and have an open-door policy with
them so they can come in and get me
anytime they need anything,” she said.
“When they stay with us four years you
see such a big difference in them from
when they were freshman.
“They’re great kids, I work with
great people and I like my job a lot.”
Thirty-year award recipient
Bob Wadsworth, an electrician and
president of the American Federation
D
Fawn Petrosky, associate vice president for Administration and Finance, was honored for her
30 years of service along with 53 other staff members who celebrated service milestones.
of State, County, and Municipal
Employees local union, could not attend
the luncheon but spoke earlier about
what longevity says about a workplace.
“A long time ago an older gentleman
told me you can always tell how good a
place is when you have people stay there
30-plus years,” he said. “I love my job,
am grateful for it, and am definitely a
Cal U guy. Like many, I want to see us
progress, move forward and do well.”
Julie Kingsley, clerical supervisor
for University Printing Services, was
another 30-year honoree.
Shortly after starting at Cal U she
raised two boys as a single parent.
“I have always felt that getting my
job at Cal U came at the right time
in my life,” said Kingsley, who last
summer received a Rose Day Award for
Volunteerism from the Zonta Club of
Washington County. “Working at Cal U
has helped to educate me about diversity
and be very accepting of people.”
The other 30-year recipients included
Bridgette Law, a clerk in Academic
Records; Fawn Petrosky associate
vice president for Administration and
Finance; and Nancy Pinardi (vice
president for Student Affairs).
Cadets Commissioned as Officers
R
OTC cadets Whitney Ptak
and Nicholas Miller were
commissioned as second
lieutenants in the U.S. Army at a
Department of Military Science’s
Reserve Officer Training Corps
commissioning ceremony May 10 in
Steele Hall’s Mainstage Theatre.
Before taking the oath of office and
receiving the gold bars signifying their
new rank, the cadets and guests heard
remarks from University President
Geraldine M. Jones.
“Whitney and Nicholas, please
know that we are impressed with all you
have accomplished, thrilled to see you
earn your commission, and prayerful
that when your service is complete,
you will find your way safely home,”
President Jones said.
“You have embraced an important
mission: to protect not only the citizens
of the United States, but also our friends
and allies around the world.
“As you take your oath this
afternoon, please remember that we
believe in you. We believe in the ideals
for which you stand, the foundation on
which the country was built. You give
us hope, conviction and pride, and we
thank you for your brave and selfless
service on our behalf.”
Guest speaker was Lt. Col. Jason
Eddy, Three Rivers Battalion Commander
Nicholas Miller and Whitney Ptak were commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army
at a Department of Military Science’s ROTC commissioning ceremony May 7 in Steele Hall.
and chair of the University of Pittsburgh’s
Department of Military Science. Eddy
was deployed to Bosnia-Herzegovina in
support of Operation Joint Forge and Iraq
in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom
and New Dawn.
“The commissioning ceremony is the
culmination of years of study and hard
work in both your academic discipline
and development as a leader,” he said.
“The responsibilities you have embraced
far exceed the recognition for the work
you’ve done and I thank you for leaving
our organization a better place.”
Ptak earned her bachelor’s degree in
criminal justice with a concentration in
criminology. Commissioned as a field
artillery officer, her first duty station will
be as a platoon leader with the 110th
Infantry Unit, in Mount Pleasant, Pa.
Miller earned his bachelor’s degree
in criminal justice with a concentration
in homeland and international security.
He is commissioned as an active duty
infantry officer.
After getting the gold bars to their
uniforms, the new second lieutenants
followed the Army tradition of giving a
silver dollar to an officer in exchange for
his first salute — Sgt. First Class
Jesse Maund to Ptak, and Sgt. First
Class Richard Vargas to Miller.
r. Nancy Pinardi, vice
president for Student Affairs
at California University of
Pennsylvania, was recently presented
the Suzanne S. Brown Distinguished
Service and Outstanding Professional
Award.
Established in 1997, the award was
created to recognize an outstanding
Student Affairs professional from the
14 schools in Pennsylvania’s State
System of Higher Education.
It is presented
annually by the
Council of Chief
Student Affairs
Officers to an
individual who
has demonstrated
innovative or
creative actions
that have benefited
his or her institution Dr. Nancy Pinardi
and the State
System or has provided noteworthy,
distinguished service to his or her
institution or to the System.
The award is named for
Suzanne S. Brown, former State System
associate vice chancellor for academic
and student affairs.
Pinardi is in her 31st year at Cal
U. She earned three degrees from the
University and a doctoral degree while
working in Student Affairs. She has led
that division since 2012.
“I work with a wonderful group of
professionals, and I was so excited they
were there because Student Affairs is
about all of us combined getting the
work done that needs to be done to
help the students,” Pinardi said.
“This is a wonderful honor, but it’s
more a reflection on our whole team
because their dedicated efforts make
me look good.”
Pinardi is the PASSHE Alcohol
& Other Drugs Consortium grant
administrator, the chair of the PASSHE
Chief Student Affairs Officers, and the
University liaison to the Cal U Student
Association Inc. She also served on the
Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference
Advisory Council.
At Cal U, she has promoted
women’s rights as the creator and
director of the first stand-alone
Women’s Center and has advocated
for diversity and inclusion for staff and
students.
Under her leadership, the University
created the first food pantry for
students with food insecurities, the first
Alcohol and Other Drugs Recovery
Center, and a new position for the first
dedicated wellness support liaison for
all students.
The California Journal is published by California University of Pennsylvania, a member of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education.
Geraldine M. Jones
University President
Dr. Bruce Barnhart
Provost and Senior Vice President
for Academic Affairs
Dr. Nancy Pinardi
Vice President for Student Affairs
Christine Kindl
Vice President for Communications
and Marketing
Office of Communications and Public Relations
Robert Thorn
Vice President for Administration and Finance
Anthony Mauro
Vice President for University
Development and Alumni Relations
250 University Avenue
California, PA 15419
T. David Garcia
Vice President for Enrollment
Management
724-938-4195
Wendy Mackall
Editor
Bruce Wald
Writer
wald@calu.edu
Volume 21, Number 9 JUNE 17, 2019
KEEP UP WITH CAL U NEWS ONLINE: calu.edu/news
Speaker to Grads: Author Your Own Story
A
ppropriately, the
Commencement speaker’s
address focused on a story.
“Every graduate in the audience
today can be the hero of their own
story,” said Terence Carter, executive
vice president of drama and comedy
development for Twentieth Century Fox.
More than 1,200 students
graduated from Cal U at the 188th
Commencement. Graduate and
undergraduate ceremonies were held
May 10-11 in the Convocation Center.
“Take inventory of the knowledge
you accumulated at Cal,” Carter said.
“Decide what of it is most important to
you, and commit yourself to weave it
into your story moving forward.
“You are all staring at a blank sheet
of paper upon which to write the story
of the rest of your life, in all of its
potential glory and possible splendor.”
Carter is also the great-greatgrandson of Elizabeth “Jennie” Adams
Carter, Class of 1881, California’s first
African-American graduate. Her photo
and related artifacts are displayed in
Carter residence hall, which also houses
Cal U’s Multicultural Center. Each year
the University presents its Jennie Carter
Award to an individual who exemplifies
her indomitable spirit.
“She wasn’t handed an easy life,
but she overcame adversity to grow
into a woman of intellect, strength and
determination,” Carter said. “Jennie
started on a path to help those whom
she believed were entitled to more than
society would readily give them.”
President Geraldine M. Jones greeted
each of the new graduates personally
Excited undergraduates gather on the Quad.
and offered them heartfelt advice.
“Please know that I am also very
proud of each of you for your hard work
and the sacrifices you have made to
reach this point,” she said. “Take in the
moment, and savor your success. You
have worked hard, you have persevered,
and you have accomplished something
significant."
Crafting Their Script
Mary Fritz, chair of the Senior Gift
Drive Committee, presented
President Jones with a check for more
than $11,000 contributed by graduating
seniors and their families.
Fritz earned her undergraduate
degrees in criminal justice and
sociology with a minor in deviance.
While pursuing a master’s degree in
sociology she is working with T.W.
Ponessa Counseling Services, where she
interned at last summer through a Cal U
scholarship.
“Cal U has taught me the leadership
skills I needed to excel in my internship,
which resulted in a job,” she said. “I was
overwhelmed walking across the stage
because all of the hard work that we, as
seniors, have put into our classes, clubs,
and community has paid off.”
Austin Owens earned a dual degree
in management and marketing.
Owens accepted an inside sales
associate position with Bisnow Media in
— Continued on page 2
Sales ‘Brisk’ for Bow
Ties & Pearls Ball
O
Makayla Froseth, a geology major, and Dr. Daniel Harris work with mapping software.
T
Cal U Receives Grants
for Geology Software
he geology program at
California University of
Pennsylvania has received three
grants totaling $23.5 million.
The funds will be used for software
that integrates geoscience, geophysics
and engineering assessments.
Students who earn a Bachelor of
Science in Geology at Cal U will use the
software for mapping, data management,
reservoir modeling, well-planning,
borehole positioning, and geophysical
seismic analysis.
Energy and environmental companies
are among those that employ geologists.
— Continued on page 3
nly a handful of tickets remain
for the Bow Ties & Pearls Ball,
Cal U’s signature fundraiser.
New this year, the formal affair on
June 29 supports legacy projects on
campus and scholarships for Cal U
students.
“Ticket sales have been brisk,”
said Tony Mauro, vice president for
University Development and Alumni
Relations. “Thanks to the generous
support of our sponsors and guests,
we expect this to be a very successful
event.”
The ball will be held in the
Convocation Center arena, which will
be transformed into an elegant “red
carpet” venue. Cocktail hour begins at
6 p.m., with dinner from 7-11 p.m.
The menu includes a choice of
Berkshire Long-bone Pork Chop, OvenRoasted Striped Sea Bass or Vegetarian
Napoleon.
Andrew Stockey, of WTAE-TV,
and Melanie Taylor, of 100.7 STAR
FM radio, will introduce University
President Geraldine Jones and
serve as emcees for the evening.
The program includes recognition
of the Cal U Athletic Hall of Fame’s
2019 inductees and presentation of the
Lillian M. Bassi Core Values Award,
one of the University’s most prestigious
honors.
After dinner, guests can enjoy a
sumptuous Viennese Table dessert
bar, photo booth, dancing and other
entertainment. Music will be provided
by the Bachelor Boys Band.
A silent auction will be held, also to
support scholarships for Cal U students.
Guests can bid on items including gift
baskets and sports memorabilia.
“I’m looking forward to a wonderful
evening with our Cal U family, alumni
and University friends,” said
President Jones. “The knowledge that
we are raising scholarship funds makes
this a truly special event.”
Ticket price for the Bow Ties &
Pearls Ball is $150 per person. Deadline
for purchase is June 21. Tickets are
available online at calu.edu/bowtiesball
or by calling 724-938-4418.
Page 2
JUNE 17, 2019
Society
Recognizes
Human
Resource
Program
C
Members of the first class to graduate with a Doctor of Criminal Justice and program instructors gather at Watkins Hall before Commencement.
First D.C.J. Class Graduates
C
al U celebrated along with 19
students who earned their Doctor
of Criminal Justice during the
188th Commencement ceremony on
May 10.
The accelerated, 42-credit hour
program focused on criminal justice
reform with an emphasis on effective
policing, criminal investigation and
rehabilitation; avoiding wrongful
convictions; and observing civil rights.
Students passed comprehensive
examinations and complete doctoral
research portfolios. They also underwent
an instructor development course, which
is recognized in Pennsylvania by the
Municipal Police Officers’ Education
and Training Commission.
Cal U’s D.C.J. is the first regionally
accredited professional doctorate in
criminal justice in the country and is
recognized by the U.S. Department of
Education.
“It’s an intense program, but very
practical,” said LaLinda McMillan
Street, an English professor at Prince
George’s County (Md.) Community
College. “My goal is to get back to my
passion, which is to teach criminal
justice courses,” she said.
Rodger Perkins earned his master’s
degree in legal studies from Cal U in
2008 and is a security consultant after
a career in the U.S. Air Force, most
recently at the Pentagon.
“I’ve always been interested in
jurisprudence,” Perkins said. “I want to
get into teaching so that I can mentor
the next generation of law enforcement
officers.”
Keeping career options open was
the goal for Kirstie Bruno Stark, who
works for Fayette County (Pa.) Adult
Probation. She earned bachelor’s and
master’s degrees from Cal U, in criminal
justice and criminal justice studies.
“I’m ‘Cal Who, Cal U’ all the way,”
she said. “The sky’s the limit. This opens
up so many options; maybe one day I’ll
want to work for the FBI. I forged so
many friendships for a lifetime in this
program.”
“This program attracts leaders in
policing, federal agents, corrections,
probation and parole, research,
investigations and academics,” said
Dr. John Cencich, professor and director
of criminal justice graduate programs at
Cal U.
“I told this first cohort two years ago
that they would pave the way. The third
cohort starts in a few weeks and is even
bigger and broader.”
Tim Malfitano is retired as
deputy director of public safety in
Jacksonville, N.C. He’s an assistant
professor of criminology and sociology
at the University of Mount Olive. He
starts law school in January.
“If you want to market yourself,
get this degree,” he said. “We should
learn all the time as adults. I wanted
something that would let me teach
young adults how to research and
fact-find.
“The program has the right amount
of theory and research. It’s the right mix
of ‘research’ and ‘real.’”
Graduates: Author Your Own Story
— Continued from page 1
New York and started June 3.
“Graduating is awesome, and four years ago I never
expected to do all the things that I’ve done here,” he said.
“Many people have helped me here, which is cool. I’m
incredibly excited to do something new and experience what’s
next.”
Steve Ruffing, who earned his degree in communication
studies with a concentration in radio and television, said he
thought about his four years during his brief walk across the
stage in a familiar venue.
The president of CUTV, he covered many Vulcans games
while serving as a camera operator, producer, host, reporter
and anchor.
“I can’t express my gratitude toward Cal U enough for
giving me the tools to succeed,” said Ruffing. “I’ve gained so
much knowledge and experience from this school, it’s hard to
put into words. I am so thankful for my time here.”
Commencement ceremonies began May 10, when doctoral
and master’s degree candidates received their diplomas and
were vested in their academic hoods. Nineteen students
became the first cohort to graduate from Cal U’s Doctor of
Criminal Justice program. Undergraduates received their
bachelor’s and associate degrees May 11.
Amy Martinek, of Johnstown, earned her Master of
Social Work on May 10 after achieving her Bachelor of
Social Work in 2016. She works as a therapeutic staff support
for Children’s Behavioral Health, and her master’s degree
will help her advance at work and prepare for the state
counseling license exam.
“It was a two-hour drive every Tuesday or Wednesday
Terence Carter addresses Cal U’s Class of 2019.
night for two years, but I’m so relieved it’s done, and I loved
my program and professors,” she said.
Brett Mohney, a unit director at UPMC Mercy, earned his
Master of Science in Nursing.
“I was very impressed and pleasantly surprised” he said of
the online degree experience. “This is a big accomplishment,
which took a of sacrifice, and it’s very nice to come here and
make the physical connection with the place I earned this
degree.”
Daniel Arnold, a chief warrant officer and mechanic in the
U.S. Army stationed in North Carolina, earned his master’s
degree in exercise science and health promotion.
“I learned quite a bit about rehabilitation, performance
enhancement and injury prevention,” he said during his first
visit to Cal U. “I am looking to change my career and moving
into occupational therapy.”
alifornia University of
Pennsylvania is now among
a select group of colleges and
universities whose programming in
human resource management is aligned
with education standards defined
by the Society for Human Resource
Management (SHRM), the world’s
largest professional society for human
resources.
SHRM recognition affirms that
Cal U’s undergraduate curriculum meets
the society’s standards for quality and
professionalism. Throughout the world,
SHRM has acknowledged that 440
programs in 331 educational institutions
align with its suggested templates and
guides.
Typically, years of professional
experience are required for an
individual to earn SHRM certification,
a respected credential within the human
resources industry. But through the
university’s affiliation with SHRM,
students in good academic standing at
Cal U may apply to sit for the SHRMCP certification exam in their final
year of study for the B.A. in Human
Resource Management, providing
they have completed 500 hours of
eligible work experience through a
human resources-related internship or
employment.
To help students prepare for the
rigorous exam, Cal U will offer a
3-credit certification preparation course
for seniors, beginning this fall.
“SHRM certification is the
industry standard,” says
Dr. Stephanie Adam, an associate
professor in Cal U’s Department of
Business and
Economics, and
a SHRM certified
instructor. “It attests
to expertise in the
complex practice
of human resource
management.
“Adding this
certification would
certainly make a
Dr. Stephanie Adam
graduate’s resume
stand out.”
Human resources professionals,
including current SHRM members, also
may prepare for the SHRM certification
exam at Cal U. They may enroll now
as non-degree students and register for
HRM 410, “SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP
Certification Preparation.” Classes
will be offered in a hybrid (online and
on-campus) format from 4-5:15 p.m.
Mondays and Wednesdays during the
Fall 2019 semester.
“We want to make this class
as convenient as possible for HR
professionals already working in the
field,” Adam says. “This is one more
example of how Cal U empowers
students to build the successful future
they envision.”
For more information about Cal U’s
B.A. in Human Resource Management
or the SHRM certification preparation
course, contact Dr. Stephanie Adam at
adam@calu.edu.
JUNE 17, 2019
Page 3
Trustees Updated on
Strategic Planning
N
oting that a strategic plan
is “essential to the long-term
growth and evolution of
any University,” President
Geraldine M. Jones provided an update
on the strategic
planning process
at the June
5 meeting of
the Council of
Trustees.
Cal U’s
current five-year
strategic plan
has been in place
since 2015.
To build on its
success for
2020-2025, the President has formed
a steering committee to integrate the
recommendations and conclusions that
emerged from workshops organized
by Carnegie Dartlet and two campus
climate surveys.
“I’m charging the Strategic
Planning Steering Committee with
developing a vision and setting
actionable institutional goals and
objectives for the University over the
next five years,” said President Jones.
Those goals, she said, will address
assessment and evaluation of
Cal U’s academic offerings; developing
approaches to meet enrollment
goals; fostering a culture of open
communication, engagement and
inclusivity; and maximizing facility use
through effective space utilization and
program demand analyses.
Four working groups representing
a variety of disciplines will develop
strategies and tactics for achieving the
goals. Once the committees’ work is
integrated to create a draft strategic
plan, the Deans/Provost Council,
APSCUF Meet and Discuss, Staff
and Leadership Council, Student
Government, College Councils, and
Faculty Senate will be asked to provide
additional feedback, comments
and revisions.
“The entire campus community will
be actively involved as we work to guide
Cal U to new levels of excellence,”
President Jones said.
She expects to present a final
strategic plan to the Council of Trustees
in December.
Following her report, the President
proposed a resolution of appreciation
for former trustee Annette Ganassi, who
concluded her term in April. Ganassi, a
Somerset county businesswoman, held
a seat on the panel from 1994-2000 and
returned to the council in 2009. She
had served as council chair for the past
two years.
The proposal passed unanimously.
“Annette did a wonderful job,” said
Jim Davis ’73, acting chair. “All of us
admired her energy, commitment and
efforts on behalf of the Trustees and
California University.”
In other business:
• Dr. Bruce Barnhart, provost and
senior vice president for Academic
Affairs, introduced T. David Garcia,
who joined the University in March
as vice president for Enrollment
Management.
Garcia reported that Cal U
expects to exceed its fall 2019
enrollment goal for first-year students.
However, summer enrollment has
slipped by 1.3%, compared to last year,
and an overall 7% decrease in
full-time equivalency (FTE) enrollment
is anticipated this fall.
Barnhart described academic
programs in
molecular biology
and veterinary
technology that
are beginning
this fall. He also
reported that
the University
received $12.5
million in grants,
contracts and
in-kind-gifts in the
2018-2019 fiscal year.
• Robert Thorn, vice president for
Administration and Finance, received
approval for a revised five-year capital
spending plan. It continues to prioritize
construction of a new science building
to replace Frich and New Science halls,
but adds demolition of Azorsky Hall as
the No. 2 priority. State funding would
pay for both projects.
Thorn also reported that renovations
at Coover Hall and Lilley Field are
nearly complete; both will be used
this fall.
• Dr. Nancy Pinardi, vice
president for Student Affairs,
introduced Donna George, a Cal U
employee and coordinator for the State
System’s Alcohol and Other Drug
Coalition.
In existence since 2003, the coalition
implements strategies to reduce
dangerous drinking and drug abuse on
all 14 System campuses.
George explained that Cal U
is the pilot location for using SBIRT —
the Screening, Brief Intervention, and
Referral to Treatment program — with
students who visit university health
centers. The voluntary program,
most commonly used in clinical
settings, includes screenings and
consultation regarding drug and
alcohol use.
The project is funded through a
$175,000 grant from the Pennsylvania
Commission on Crime and
Delinquency.
“Cal U has been a pioneer in this
program,” George said. “You should be
very proud.”
• Christine Kindl, vice president
for Communications and Marketing,
highlighted her area’s production and
reach during the past academic year.
Among noteworthy statistics: 3,294
radio and 108 television spots aired, and
digital ads garnered 42.2 million views.
Some 240 news stories were posted on
the Cal U website, and more than 3,000
unique stories about the University
appeared in print. The calu.edu website
had 6.17 million pageviews, including
112,853 for the application page alone.
The team completed more than 900
creative projects, including 20
feature videos.
• Tony Mauro, vice president for
University Development and Alumni
Relations, reported that his office has
raised nearly $3.7 million in donations,
which includes more than $2.1 million
in cash donations, so far in fiscal year
2018-2019. Both of these totals are the
second highest in the past seven years.
The Trustees are scheduled to meet
again Sept. 18.
President Geraldine Jones enjoys a moment with faculty merit award recipients
Dr. Kyle Fredrick (left), Dr. Rosalie Smiley and Dr. Craig Smith.
Presidential Merit
Awards Bestowed
T
hree outstanding California
University faculty members
who contribute to student
success have received Presidential
Distinguished Merit Awards.
Award recipients Dr. Kyle Fredrick,
Dr. Rosalie Smiley, and Dr. Craig
Smith were recognized during the
May 10 Graduate Commencement
ceremony and received a medallion
they wore over their academic regalia,
plus a scholarship to be awarded to a
student in each recipient’s discipline.
Fredrick, a professor in the
Department of Earth Sciences, was
honored for excellence in teaching.
He is an expert in hydrology and
groundwater modeling.
His courses teach students to
address water quality concerns and
improve environmental conditions in
our communities.
Fredrick is involved with research
projects involving students, including
monitoring local streams to improve
water quality and mitigate flooding
hazards.
Fredrick also leads annual field
trips to the great geologic sites of
the United States to encourage
outdoor experiences and improve
students’ understanding of the
natural world.
A professor in the Department
of Social Work, Smiley was honored
for excellence in service.
She teaches in the MSW program
and supervises students in their field
placements.
Throughout her career as a
licensed social worker, Smiley has
served countless families and children,
often in underserved, low-income
communities.
At the University, Smiley has
assisted with two departmental
reaccreditations; she also serves on the
MSW Program Committee, advises
the Graduate Social Work Students
Association and is active in the
Frederick Douglass Institute at
Cal U.
Smith, a professor in the
Department of History, Politics,
Society and Law, was honored for
excellence in research. His research
focuses on the work of the Supreme
Court and its justices, and how legal
decisions impact people’s lives.
Smith is the author of Failing
Justice: Charles Evans Whittaker on the
Supreme Court (McFarland, 2005.) He
has contributed chapters to several
books, and his research led to several
articles for the Journal of Supreme
Court History.
Smith continues to work on a new
biography of Justice Tom C. Clark.
Cal U Receives Three Grants
for Geology Software
— Continued from page 1
These experts are critical to the
identification, mapping and extraction
of both energy and mineral resources.
They also play key roles in developing
land for new construction or remediation
strategies.
Collecting data is step one. Step two
— converting it into charts, graphs, 3D
models and other analytical information
— requires powerful software.
“It’s a huge boon for our students
to be able to say they have some
experience with Petrel, Kingdom or
GeoGraphix (software solutions),”
says Dr. Daniel Harris, assistant
professor of geology at Cal U.
“They are all used across a variety of
industries.
“Training on these competitive
software packages will provide students
with the opportunity to develop skills
desired by the oil and gas, geotechnical,
and engineering sectors.”
Cal U’s B.S. in Geology is
distinguished by its focus on professional
development. A broad foundation of
coursework, plus field courses and other
hands-on learning, prepares students for
potential licensure in Pennsylvania and
most other U.S. states. Learn more about
geology and other Cal U programs at
calu.edu/academics.
Page 4
S
JUNE 17, 2019
State
System
Honors
Pinardi
Staff Honored at Luncheon
ervice milestones from five to 35
years were recognized at the Staff
Recognition Luncheon held
May 30 in the Natali Performance
Center.
“I want you to know that the vice
presidents and I appreciate
your dedication and commitment to
serving this wonderful institution
and most importantly our students,”
said University President
Geraldine M. Jones.
“We have a wonderful staff here at
Cal U, and I understand all that you
do on a daily basis in order to make
this University run efficiently and
effectively.”
Alumna Mary Paula Birkinsha, an
assistant in Manderino Library, was the
35-year honoree.
She has served several positions in
the circulation/reserve area, and part
of her current role includes hiring and
coordinating 55 student workers and two
graduate assistants each academic year.
“I really enjoy the students day-today and have an open-door policy with
them so they can come in and get me
anytime they need anything,” she said.
“When they stay with us four years you
see such a big difference in them from
when they were freshman.
“They’re great kids, I work with
great people and I like my job a lot.”
Thirty-year award recipient
Bob Wadsworth, an electrician and
president of the American Federation
D
Fawn Petrosky, associate vice president for Administration and Finance, was honored for her
30 years of service along with 53 other staff members who celebrated service milestones.
of State, County, and Municipal
Employees local union, could not attend
the luncheon but spoke earlier about
what longevity says about a workplace.
“A long time ago an older gentleman
told me you can always tell how good a
place is when you have people stay there
30-plus years,” he said. “I love my job,
am grateful for it, and am definitely a
Cal U guy. Like many, I want to see us
progress, move forward and do well.”
Julie Kingsley, clerical supervisor
for University Printing Services, was
another 30-year honoree.
Shortly after starting at Cal U she
raised two boys as a single parent.
“I have always felt that getting my
job at Cal U came at the right time
in my life,” said Kingsley, who last
summer received a Rose Day Award for
Volunteerism from the Zonta Club of
Washington County. “Working at Cal U
has helped to educate me about diversity
and be very accepting of people.”
The other 30-year recipients included
Bridgette Law, a clerk in Academic
Records; Fawn Petrosky associate
vice president for Administration and
Finance; and Nancy Pinardi (vice
president for Student Affairs).
Cadets Commissioned as Officers
R
OTC cadets Whitney Ptak
and Nicholas Miller were
commissioned as second
lieutenants in the U.S. Army at a
Department of Military Science’s
Reserve Officer Training Corps
commissioning ceremony May 10 in
Steele Hall’s Mainstage Theatre.
Before taking the oath of office and
receiving the gold bars signifying their
new rank, the cadets and guests heard
remarks from University President
Geraldine M. Jones.
“Whitney and Nicholas, please
know that we are impressed with all you
have accomplished, thrilled to see you
earn your commission, and prayerful
that when your service is complete,
you will find your way safely home,”
President Jones said.
“You have embraced an important
mission: to protect not only the citizens
of the United States, but also our friends
and allies around the world.
“As you take your oath this
afternoon, please remember that we
believe in you. We believe in the ideals
for which you stand, the foundation on
which the country was built. You give
us hope, conviction and pride, and we
thank you for your brave and selfless
service on our behalf.”
Guest speaker was Lt. Col. Jason
Eddy, Three Rivers Battalion Commander
Nicholas Miller and Whitney Ptak were commissioned as second lieutenants in the U.S. Army
at a Department of Military Science’s ROTC commissioning ceremony May 7 in Steele Hall.
and chair of the University of Pittsburgh’s
Department of Military Science. Eddy
was deployed to Bosnia-Herzegovina in
support of Operation Joint Forge and Iraq
in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom
and New Dawn.
“The commissioning ceremony is the
culmination of years of study and hard
work in both your academic discipline
and development as a leader,” he said.
“The responsibilities you have embraced
far exceed the recognition for the work
you’ve done and I thank you for leaving
our organization a better place.”
Ptak earned her bachelor’s degree in
criminal justice with a concentration in
criminology. Commissioned as a field
artillery officer, her first duty station will
be as a platoon leader with the 110th
Infantry Unit, in Mount Pleasant, Pa.
Miller earned his bachelor’s degree
in criminal justice with a concentration
in homeland and international security.
He is commissioned as an active duty
infantry officer.
After getting the gold bars to their
uniforms, the new second lieutenants
followed the Army tradition of giving a
silver dollar to an officer in exchange for
his first salute — Sgt. First Class
Jesse Maund to Ptak, and Sgt. First
Class Richard Vargas to Miller.
r. Nancy Pinardi, vice
president for Student Affairs
at California University of
Pennsylvania, was recently presented
the Suzanne S. Brown Distinguished
Service and Outstanding Professional
Award.
Established in 1997, the award was
created to recognize an outstanding
Student Affairs professional from the
14 schools in Pennsylvania’s State
System of Higher Education.
It is presented
annually by the
Council of Chief
Student Affairs
Officers to an
individual who
has demonstrated
innovative or
creative actions
that have benefited
his or her institution Dr. Nancy Pinardi
and the State
System or has provided noteworthy,
distinguished service to his or her
institution or to the System.
The award is named for
Suzanne S. Brown, former State System
associate vice chancellor for academic
and student affairs.
Pinardi is in her 31st year at Cal
U. She earned three degrees from the
University and a doctoral degree while
working in Student Affairs. She has led
that division since 2012.
“I work with a wonderful group of
professionals, and I was so excited they
were there because Student Affairs is
about all of us combined getting the
work done that needs to be done to
help the students,” Pinardi said.
“This is a wonderful honor, but it’s
more a reflection on our whole team
because their dedicated efforts make
me look good.”
Pinardi is the PASSHE Alcohol
& Other Drugs Consortium grant
administrator, the chair of the PASSHE
Chief Student Affairs Officers, and the
University liaison to the Cal U Student
Association Inc. She also served on the
Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference
Advisory Council.
At Cal U, she has promoted
women’s rights as the creator and
director of the first stand-alone
Women’s Center and has advocated
for diversity and inclusion for staff and
students.
Under her leadership, the University
created the first food pantry for
students with food insecurities, the first
Alcohol and Other Drugs Recovery
Center, and a new position for the first
dedicated wellness support liaison for
all students.
The California Journal is published by California University of Pennsylvania, a member of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education.
Geraldine M. Jones
University President
Dr. Bruce Barnhart
Provost and Senior Vice President
for Academic Affairs
Dr. Nancy Pinardi
Vice President for Student Affairs
Christine Kindl
Vice President for Communications
and Marketing
Office of Communications and Public Relations
Robert Thorn
Vice President for Administration and Finance
Anthony Mauro
Vice President for University
Development and Alumni Relations
250 University Avenue
California, PA 15419
T. David Garcia
Vice President for Enrollment
Management
724-938-4195
Wendy Mackall
Editor
Bruce Wald
Writer
wald@calu.edu