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clarion
u n i v e r s i t y
m a g a z i n e
Spring 2016
Dave Fusilli
Professional
Kayaker
melissa
O’neil
High
aims
The
Shadow
knows
The
Clarion
Project
Share Your Heritage withClarion
easiest
It’s the
major gift
you can make to us.
that’s not
And
the best part.
“We met at Clarion, we trained for our 36-year teaching careers
at Clarion, and we made many lifetime friends at Clarion. For
those reasons, we remembered Clarion University in our will.
We owe much to Clarion, and it’s our chance to give back.”
Make Clarion University part of your heritage by
including Clarion University Foundation, Inc., in
your estate plans.
Remembering Clarion in your will builds our long-term financial strength,
and it’s the easiest major gift you can make. Why?
Richard and Nancy (Coax) Malacarne
Both Clarion University Alumni Class of 1963
It’s Revocable
If your plans or circumstances change, you can easily revise the bequest.
It’s Simple
You can set up your gift with a single paragraph in your will, or a simple
one-page amendment (a “codicil”).
John Mumford ’73, ’76
Director of Planned Giving
814-393-1926
jmumford@cuf-inc.org
It’s Flexible
You can leave us a specific asset, or a share in your estate’s net remainder.
Your bequest can support a specific program or whatever needs are most
relevant when your gift is received.
To learn more about making Clarion University part of your heritage
by naming Clarion University Foundation, Inc., in your estate plans,
visit www.clarion.plannedgiving.org.
clarion
SPRING 2 0 16
Volume 3
Number 1
departments
features
4 Clarion Digest
Clarion gains 400 new alumni at winter
commencement; ROTC commissions three new
officers; Cornell West goes ‘Inside Politics’ with
students; Clarion SBDC receives accreditation.
12
The Shadow
Knows
Katie Donald (’08), executive
director of Punxsutawney
Groundhog Club, and Dan
“Moonshine” McGinley (’02),
part of the club’s Inner Circle,
have the inside info on Phil.
10 Alumni Gatherings
Golden Eagles alumni flocked to sunny Florida in
March.
18
The
Clarion
Project
Grad student Megan
Foster returns the
love to her alma
mater with a Clarion
take on the Facebook
page Humans of New
York.
24
32 Sports Roundup
Brock Zacherl makes his
mark on the mat after
red shirt year.
40 Alumni News &
Class Notes
48 Courageous
Endeavors
Junior Nathan Mathewson has a rare syndrome
that affects multiple organ systems, but he
graciously navigates the challenges in pursuit of
his degree and his dreams.
On the Edge
Dave Fusilli (’04) first sat in a kayak at age 7 in the Clarion
University pool. Now an alumnus, he makes his living kayaking
some of the most challenging runs in the world.
On the Cover
Dave Fusilli (’04)
navigates Green
River, N.C.
Clarion university
magazine
1
CLARION
UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE
President: Dr. Karen Whitney
Executive editor: Tina Horner
Co-editors: Sean Fagan (sports); Amy Thompson
Wozniak (’02, M.S. ’06); David Love (’86, ’87)
Design: Brenda Stahlman
Contributors: Michelle Port, Sammi Beichner
Photographers: Adam Reynolds (’15), George Powers
(’81), Jason Strohm (’01, MFA ’05), Brett Whitling
Address comments and questions to:
Clarion University Magazine
Center for Advancement
Clarion University of Pennsylvania
840 Wood St., Clarion, PA 16214
Email: alumni@clarion.edu
Visit Clarion University on the Web
at www.clarion.edu
Clarion University Magazine is published by the
Division for University Advancement for alumni,
families of current students and friends of Clarion
University. Alumni information is also located at
www.clarion.edu/alumni.
It is the policy of Clarion University of Pennsylvania
that there shall be equal opportunity in all of its
educational programs, services, and benefits, and
there shall be no discrimination with regard to a
student’s or prospective student’s race, color, religion,
sex, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation/
affection, gender identity, veteran status, or other
classifications that are protected under Title IX of
the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of
the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with
Disabilities Act of 1990, and other pertinent state
and federal laws and regulations. Direct inquiries to
the Director of Social Equity, Clarion University of
Pennsylvania, Second Floor Carrier Administration
Building 16214-1232. Email asalsgiver@clarion.
edu or phone 814-393-2109. Inquiries may also be
directed to the Director of the Office for Civil Rights,
Department of Education, 330 Independence Avenue,
SW, Washington, DC 20201.
Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education
Board of Governors
Chair: Guido M. Pichini
Vice Chair: Marie Conley
Vice Chair: David M. Maser
Sen. Richard Alloway II
Rep. Matthew E. Baker
Ronald G. Henry
Jane M. Earll
Christopher H. Franklin
Sarah Galbally
Rep. Michael K. Hanna
Jonathan B. Mack
Daniel P. Meuser
Pedro A. Rivera, secretary of education
Sen. Judy Schwank
Robert S. Taylor
Aaron A. Walton
Harold C. Shields
Gov. Tom Wolf
Council of Trustees
Chair: James L. Kifer (’83)
Vice Chair: J.D. Dunbar (’77, M.S. ’79)
Secretary: Milissa Bauer (’84)
Dr. Syed R. Ali-Zaidi
Susanne A. Burns
The Honorable R. Lee James
The Honorable Donna Oberlander (’91)
Randy Seitz (’09)
Howard H. Shreckengost (’83)
Jeffrey J. Szumigale (’82)
Brendan Shepherd, student trustee
Alumni Association Board of Directors
President: Deborah Eckelberger (’07)
President-Elect: Jeffrey Douthett (’79)
Secretary: Jean Mills (’59, ’74)
Treasurer: David Reed (’09)
David Bailey (’65)
Floyd Barger (’58)
Daniel Bartoli (’81)
Angela Brown (’80)
Jonathan Catanzarita (’11)
Elisabeth Fulmer (’64, ’80, ’97)
Lee Grosch (’62)
Sandra Jarecki (’69)
Terri (Tiki) Kahle (’87)
Nancy Lendyak (’75)
Ronald Lucas (’82)
Chris Myers (’12)
Virginia Vasko (‘88)
Daniel Zangrilli (‘07)
Glenn Zari (’97)
Morgan Woodin
Eagle Ambassadors president
Karen Whitney, ex-officio
President of Clarion University
Laura King (’09), ex-officio
Executive Director of Clarion University
Alumni Association
2
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Wilk and Nair come
tumbling down
With the opening of the new Suites
on Main, Nair and Wilkinson halls are
being demolished. Both buildings,
completed in 1971, aged out and were
no longer sustainable. The space will
be used for parking. Bricks from the
buildings will be available during
Alumni Weekend.
www.clarion.edu/alumni weekend
letter from the president
Dear Clarion University family,
Another academic year is drawing to a close, and it’s been an exciting time at Clarion University. When
this year’s graduates arrived as freshmen just four years ago, many of them lived in the traditional
residence halls of Nair and Wilkinson halls. When they applied for admission, inquired about financial
aid, worked with a mentor or visited the health center, the paths to those offices led to various buildings
around campus.
With the renovation of Becht Hall completed last summer, current and incoming students know that
most of what they need is in one convenient, central location. With the completion of the new Suites
on Main, our student housing has been completely updated and represents the best of college student
housing. In fact, this newest community also effectively extends the downtown Clarion experience with
the relocation of the book store and Starbucks and the addition of The Den by Denny’s and a movie
theater.
Clarion University is deeply committed to the community and to a vibrant and engaging Clarion Main
Street, benefiting both the town and the university.
But don’t take my word for it. I invite you to see for yourselves, and there’s no better time than Alumni
Weekend, June 3-5. Our Alumni Association has tons of fun planned. Come, see and experience how
your university is growing!
Fly Eagles Fly!
Karen M. Whitney
President, Clarion University
Clarion university
magazine
3
Campus news I clarion digest
spotlight on:
BS Criminal
Justice
Administration
Why it’s hot
Less than one-third of Pennsylvania’s
18,000 corrections officers have
bachelor’s degrees. Leadership
positions are typically held by baby
boomers nearing retirement age,
which creates a workforce void.
Offering a degree completion
program helps to ease that void.
What it’s got
Students pursuing this program
must have an associate degree in
criminal justice or have earned 60
college credits. Clarion’s program
is unique because it provides online
degree completion in criminal justice
administration. Career opportunities
include correctional officers and
jailers, first-line correctional
supervisors, police and sheriff’s
officers, investigators, detectives
and gaming officers.
Skylar Billingsley, who graduated with a
Bachelor of Science in Education degree,
celebrates outside of Gemmell with a
family member.
Winter
commencement
President Karen Whitney conferred 123 master’s degrees, 259 bachelor’s
degrees and 34 associate degrees at Dec. 12 winter commencement in
Tippin Gym. Charles P. Leach Jr., a key policy team member and participant
during the foundation’s greatest period of growth and organizational
development, addressed graduates and received an honorary Doctor of
Public Service degree.
Clarion ROTC
commissions three
officers
What’s next
After one year of offering
the program, more than
30 students are enrolled.
Marc Bush is commissioned as
an officer in the U.S. Army.
4
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Clarion University and the U.S. Army
proudly conferred degrees and
commissioned three officers at its
December 2015 commencement
ceremonies: Marc Daniel Bush of
Butler, Christopher James Flaugher
of Clarion, and Alexander James
Pucilowski of Moosic. The ROTC
program was developed by the U.S.
Army Cadet Command, designed
to teach students leadership and
management skills. ROTC is intended
to increase self-confidence, selfdiscipline, physical stamina, poise
and other qualities essential to the
development of a leader of character.
Campus News I clarion digest
Benedict Oddi exhibition in Carlson
The work of Benedict Oddi is featured in
the University Art Gallery. Oddi was an
adjunct professor at Clarion University in
fall 2014 and is currently teaching at IUP. He
earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in
painting and his teaching certification from
Edinboro University. He completed
his Master of Fine Arts degree in
painting at IUP.
In 2010 and 2012, Oddi was one of
100 artists invited internationally to
the EMMA International Collaboration
in Big River, Saskatchewan, Canada.
In 2009 he was presented the Best
New Artist Award by Celebrate
Life/Celebrate Art, Persad Center
Auction, Carnegie Museum of Art,
Pittsburgh.
summer
theatre 2016
Clarion University has scheduled its
2016 Summer Musical Theatre Festival
performances.
“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor
Dreamcoat” will be performed at 7:30 p.m.
June 23-25 and June 29 to July 2, and at
2 p.m. June 26.
“You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” will
take the stage at 7:30 p.m. July 28-30 and
Aug. 3-6, and at 2 p.m. July 31.
All performances will be in Marwick-Boyd
Little Theatre. For tickets call 814-393-ARTS or
visit clarionuniversitytickets.com.
Clarion university
magazine
5
Campus news I clarion digest
MLK
Community
Breakfast
Student Jerrell
Blaine shares
ideas with West.
Cornel West goes ‘Inside Politics’
As part of the Mary L. Seifert Cultural Series, established to provide the campus
and community with cultural, learning-inspired discussion, Dr. Cornel West visited
Clarion Feb. 4. A public intellectual and groundbreaking author, he participated in a
panel discussion, “Black Lives Matter,” with university students. He also presented
a lecture, “Inside Politics.” The author of more than 20 books, he has composed
award-winning spoken word albums, and is dedicated to keeping the message of
Martin Luther King Jr. alive by bearing witness to love and justice.
Dédé honored
for first-year
student advocacy
Rev. Lora A. Adams-King,
superintendent of Farrell area School
District and pastor of the Franklin
New Life Family Worship Center, was
the keynote speaker at the Jan. 18
Martin Luther King Jr. Community
Breakfast. Held at the American
Legion on Main Street, Clarion, the
theme of the breakfast was “The
King Legacy: And Justice for All.” It
was open to the community.
6
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Brenda Dédé, Ph.D., associate vice-president of
academic affairs at Clarion University, was awarded the
2016 Outstanding First-Year Student Advocate Award
Feb. 20. Presented by the University of South Carolina’s
National Resource Center for the First-Year Experience
and Students in Transition, she is one of 10 being
recognized.
Dédé is responsible for students from recruitment to
graduation. While she focuses on freshmen, she helps at
all points of the spectrum by assisting students with social, financial and academic
issues. Dédé is credited with starting and maintaining several campus programs,
such as Movin’ On Week.
Instituted in 2013, Movin’ On’s goal is to register first-year students who failed
to do so during the traditional registration period. Movin’ On also includes a week
of face-to-face encounters with university faculty and staff, designed to introduce
students to Clarion college life.
From the fall of 2013 to the spring of 2014, Movin’ On is credited with raising
the freshmen retention rate from 88 percent to 91 percent. All students are now
included in its events.
PASSHE News I clarion digest
Small Business Development
Center accreditation
one of
Centers
1,500+
individuals
More than
$11,000,000
in financing
7,500
hours
10
Counties
461
clients
1
on
1
consulting
18
training to
Past Year’s numbers
Clarion University Small Business Development Center, one of 18
centers in Pennsylvania, received accreditation by the National Association of Small
Business Development Centers. The SBDC provides entrepreneurs and existing
small businesses in Armstrong, Cameron, Clarion, Clearfield, Elk, Forest, Jefferson,
McKean, Potter and Venango counties with consultation, information and education
to help businesses start, grow and prosper. During the past year, the Clarion
University SBDC provided 7,500 hours of one-on-one consulting to 461 clients,
assisted clients with securing financing for projects totaling more than $11,000,000
and provided entrepreneurial training to more than 1,500 individuals.
Infinite
opportunities
The second season of “Infinite
Opportunities,” a half-hour, public
affairs program on PCN featuring
Pennsylvania’s State System of
Higher Education universities, is
currently being televised.
In its inaugural season, the
program introduced viewers to the
14 State System universities and the
broad array of academic programs
they offer. The new season will
delve even deeper into the many
opportunities Pennsylvania’s public
universities provide.
“In the second season, we will go
more in depth, providing viewers
the opportunity every week to learn
even more about the programs and
services the universities offer, not just
to our more than 100,000 students,
but to all of the residents of the
commonwealth,” said State System
Chancellor Frank T. Brogan, who
regularly serves as the program’s
moderator.
Topics to be covered during the
second season will include athletics,
online learning, service learning,
liberal arts, internships, health and
wellness, diversity, alumni success,
economic impact, supporting higher
education and succeeding in college.
The season will conclude with 14
university-specific episodes.
For the complete season two
schedule, or to view episodes from
season one, go to www.passhe.edu/
infiniteopportunities.
Clarion university
magazine
7
Student news I clarion digest
Scholar Athletes
(From left) Jordan Bekelja,
Jen Straw and Shelby
Coughenour, members of
the Carlson Cup-winning
women’s basketball team,
stand with Jana Ashley
and Jermaine Cooper, head
coach and assistant coach,
respectively. The Carlson Cup
goes to the team with the
most-improved GPA.
A record-setting 171 student-athletes
– making up 49 percent of all Clarion
student-athletes – were recognized
for their academic efforts at the 26th
Annual Bob Carlson Scholar-Athlete
Luncheon Feb. 6. The event was held
in Gemmell multi-purpose room and
featured representatives from every
Golden Eagle athletics program, with
faculty athletics representative Rich
Lane, Ph.D., introducing the studentathletes.
“Nothing makes me prouder than
seeing the success our teams have
in the classroom as well as in their
competitions,” said Clarion athletic
director Dave Katis. He was followed by
university president Dr. Karen Whitney,
who was also exuberant in her praise
for the athletics programs.
“I love this athletics program
because of the emphasis put on
academic success and the way those
successes continue to grow,” Whitney
said.
To be named a scholar-athlete,
student-athletes must achieve a
cumulative grade point average of
8
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
3.2 or higher, have two consecutive
semesters of a 3.2 GPA or higher in
the previous spring and fall semesters,
or be a freshman or new transfer who
achieved a 3.2 GPA or higher in the fall
2015 term.
This year, 171 student-athletes met
that criteria, making up nearly half
of all Clarion athletes in the last year.
Both the total (171 student-athletes)
and percentage (49 percent) top the
previous records of 166 and 47 percent,
respectively, set at the 2014 luncheon.
In addition to the scholar-athlete
recognitions, the Clarion women’s
basketball team was awarded the
2016 Carlson Cup, given annually to
the team that displays the biggest
overall increase in GPA during the past
calendar year. The award is named
after Bob Carlson, who started the
scholar athlete luncheon in 1991 and
was Clarion’s athletic director from
1990 to 2005. On hand to receive the
award was head coach Jana Ashley and
women’s basketball scholar-athletes
Jordan Bekelja, Jen Straw and Shelby
Coughenour.
In addition to the Carlson Cup,
two other awards were handed out
at the luncheon. Bruce Kendra was
presented with the Extra Effort
Award, recognizing the hard work
done by the facilities management
staff at Tippin Gymnasium and
elsewhere on campus.
Ken Staub was also recognized
as the Faculty of the Year award
winner and was presented a
plaque by Student-Athlete
Advisory Committee president
Alissa Spencer, a member of the
women’s soccer team.
171
student
athletes
49%
of athletes
3.2
or higher
GPA
Student News I clarion digest
Seybold
Academic
honors
In December three Clarion studentathletes were awarded the highest
academic honor in collegiate athletics,
when football’s Matt Koerper and
volleyball’s Kaley Pittsley and Morgan
Seybold were named College Sports
Information Directors of America
Academic All-Americans. To be eligible
for this honor, a student-athlete must
be a sophomore or above academically,
maintain a 3.30 GPA or better, and have
spent at least one year at their current
institution. That list of nominees is then
whittled down into All-District teams
and another vote is held, with only the
best of the best in the country earning
Academic All-American honors.
A rehabilitative science major,
Seybold concluded a stellar four-year
career at libero for the Golden Eagles
with 772 digs and an average of 5.76
digs per set. Her 2,471 career digs make
her one of just four players in program
history to top 2,000 career digs and
ranks third in the program annals.
Pittsley
Student attends
Harrisburg
internship
Koerper
Koerper is an accounting major
carrying a cumulative 3.75 GPA and was
dominant on the defensive line in 2015.
He tied for the team-high with eight
sacks and totaled 45 tackles, a teambest 13 of which went for lost yardage.
Koerper had a hand in three turnovers
on the year as well, recovering two
fumbles and forcing another. In his
career Koerper has played in 32 games,
made 94 tackles, 21 tackles for loss and
10 sacks.
Pittsley led the PSAC in total assists
(1,452) and assists per set (10.52) in 2015
and added 10 assist-dig double-doubles
on the year. The junior marketing/
management major set Clarion to the
best marks in the PSAC in kills (13.80)
and assists (13.04) per set in conference
matches, and the Golden Eagles ranked
10th in the nation in total assists and 13th
in total kills.
In addition to their Academic AllAmerican Honors, the duo of Seybold
and Pittsley were honored as members
of the PSAC Fall Top 10. Initiated in the
1997-98 academic year, the Top 10 Award
is given to five males and five females
in each athletic season: fall, winter and
spring. It is chosen by the league’s sports
information directors and are designed
to recognize student-athletes who excel
in both the classroom and in athletic
competition.
Benjamin L. Edney of Fredonia
worked for the state Department
of Health in the Office of
Legislative Affairs as part of a
15-week internship sponsored
by Pennsylvania’s State System
of Higher Education. Edney is a
junior sociology major, and is one
of 16 students participating in The
Harrisburg Internship Semester
program. THIS provides students
with the opportunity to work in all
areas of state government while
earning a full semester’s worth of
credits.
Clarion university
magazine
9
Florida
alumni tour
Sunshine and balmy weather greeted
alumni gathering in Florida for the
Florida Alumni Tour. Clockwise from
top: the notorious Pirate Parrot was
in attendance at the Pirates training
camp game; Jim Hoofangle (’73) (left)
and Mart Grichor (’79) hold name
badges from the “old days” as proof of
their Clarion alumni status; director
of alumni relations Laura King (left) sits
with Capt. John DiTommasso (’78) and
President Karen Whitney on the water
of Citrus Hill, Fla.; a view from
the stands; alumni gather for a day
of sun; alumni gather in the shade.
At center: Clarion alumni hold a banner
at the Pirates training camp game
in Bradenton, Fla.
10
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Clarion university
magazine
11
The
shadow
knows
Punxsutawney Phil was up early to predict
whether we can expect six more weeks of
winter, and two Clarion University alumni
were close to the prognosticating action.
Katie Donald (’08) is executive director
of the Punxsutawney Groundhog club,
and Dan “Moonshine” McGinley (’02) is
part of the club’s Inner Circle.
According to the official Groundhog
Day website, the Inner Circle is “a group
of local dignitaries responsible for
carrying on the tradition of Groundhog
Day. They’re the ones who are not only
responsible for planning the events every
year, but they’re also responsible for the
feeding and care of Phil himself!”
As part of Phil’s entourage, Donald and
McGinley have insider information on Phil
and the festivities that surround Gobbler’s
Knob.
12
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
First, Phil has the difficult task of seeing
or not seeing his shadow.
Seeing his shadow means there will be
six more weeks of winter.
Not seeing his shadow means spring
will come early. This year, Phil did not
see his shadow much to the delight of
thousands of people at Gobbler’s Knob
and around the world.
So far, history has been on the side of
winter, with Phil seeing his shadow 102
times in the past 130 years. There are
another 17 times when he didn’t see his
shadow, and the other times are lost from
the record books.
Not everyone is a fan of the groundhog’s
results, which the Inner Circle claims are
100 percent accurate. It depends on if
you’re a fan of one season over the other.
McGinley said Phil has had “no threats
of violence,” but there was talk of a lawsuit
once. However, it was quickly quashed.
Donald said Phil feels very safe. Phil’s
burrow, where he lives with his wife,
Phyllis, is in Punxsutawney Memorial
Library, next door to Punxsutawney Police
station. The groundhog couple doesn’t
have children, due to Phil’s demanding
work schedule.
Dan “Moonshine” McGinley,
Katie Donald and Phil
Clarion university
magazine
13
“It’s so much more than a one-day-ayear holiday, and we’re happy to host,”
McGinley said.
Living in the library has its perks for
both Phil and those who come to see him.
People enjoy reading to him, and Phil likes
knowing that he boosts library attendance.
With his active schedule and his
burrow’s lighting and temperature settings,
Phil doesn’t fully hibernate like most other
groundhogs, Donald said. He doesn’t eat as
much and is sleepier during winter.
So what does the premiere
prognosticator eat? His favorite meal is
honey and oat granola, and he is a big fan
of kale. He also receives alfalfa as part of a
balanced groundhog diet, she said.
In order to keep up appearances, Phil
has a dentist, legal team and veterinarian.
“He has to have a physical once a year,”
Donald said.
Food preferences are about as close
to a diva attitude as Phil ever exhibits.
Recipe
While other groundhogs
only live three to six years
in the wild, Phil is not
embarrassed by his age or how
he has come to live so long.
Well, that and the fact that he doesn’t
recognize other animal prognosticators
– or TV weather personalities, for that
matter.
There are many other weather
forecasters, but there’s only one
Punxsutawney Phil, who has had the job
for the past 130 years. The first official
Groundhog Day was Feb. 2, 1887, but
the tradition was started in 1886 when
a group of Punxsutawney residents
marked Candlemas Day by searching for
a groundhog.
Candelmas Day is celebrated Feb. 2,
and, as the tradition goes, if any animal
came out from underground hibernation
and the sun was out, there would be six
more weeks of winter. A local newspaper
editor named the group Punxsutawney
Groundhog Club, after the group’s first
trek to find Phil.
“He looks great for 130,” Donald said.
While other groundhogs only live
three to six years in the wild, Phil is not
embarrassed by his age or how he has
come to live so long. Phil enjoys drinking
the Elixir of Life every summer, which
sustains him for another seven years,
McGinley said.
It’s the only time Phil hits the bottle,
which is surprising since some of the
questions that a groundhog is asked
can become tedious, like: How much
wood would a woodchuck chuck, if a
Groundhog Cookies
2 cups sifted flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 cup soft butter
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup molasses
1 egg yolk
1 egg, slightly beaten
Currants or raisins
Sift together first seven ingredients. Set aside. Cream
butter and sugar until fluffy. Blend in molasses and
yolk. Stir in flour mixture and mix well. Form into a ball.
Wrap in plastic wrap. Chill overnight, several nights or
freeze.
Place small amounts of dough on a sheet of plastic
wrap, and cover with plastic wrap. Roll 1/8 inch thick.
Cut out cookies with lightly floured cutter.
Place cookies on greased baking sheet. Brush with
slightly beaten egg. Decorate with currants or raisin
eyes. Repeat until all dough is used.
Bake 8 to 10 minutes in a preheated 350-degree oven.
Cool slightly before removing from cookie sheet.
Makes 72 or more medium-sized groundhogs.
14
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Groundhog Days Past
Clarion university
magazine
15
“Although he doesn’t sport a
top hat and tuxedo like those
who are in the Inner Circle, he’s
comfortable in his own fur.”
woodchuck could chuck wood?
Donald insists Phil doesn’t get bored
with these questions since he only speaks
groundhog-ese, but his handlers might
be a little less patient. The answer is 700
pounds, she said, in case anyone was
wondering.
Even with mundane questions, Phil
loves his job.
“He enjoys meeting new people all the
time,” Donald said.
Although he doesn’t sport a top hat
and tuxedo like those who are in the Inner
Circle, he’s comfortable in his own fur,
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McGinley said.
McGinley was nominated to the
Inner Circle, members of which have
traditionally been men, after working
with the Groundhog Day stage show.
He earned his nickname, “Moonshine,”
because he works the stage show under
the moonshine.
“Women have been nominated (to the
Inner Circle), and I don’t think it will be
long before a woman breaks that mold
and gets into the club,” McGinley said.
Donald said as a local, she would
always stay for the celebration when she
was growing up, and has never grown
tired of town’s most famous day and
celebrity.
As executive director of the club, she
is close to the Inner Circle. She moved
out of the area for a couple of years, but
when she came back, she was happy
to land the job as executive director for
the Groundhog Club, which is a 501c3
organization.
Unlike Donald, McGinley isn’t originally
from Punxsutawney, but his wife is. He
met her through her cousin, who was
McGinley’s roommate at Clarion.
Fun Facts
The average groundhog is 20 inches long and normally weighs
from 12 to 15 pounds. Punxsutawney Phil weighs about 20
pounds and is 22 inches long. Groundhogs are covered with
coarse grayish hairs (fur), tipped
with brown or sometimes dull
red. They have short ears, a
short tail, short legs, and are
surprisingly quick. Their jaws
are exceptionally strong.
Old
English
song
A groundhog’s diet consists of lots of greens,
fruits and vegetables and very little water.
Most of their liquids come from dewy leaves.
A groundhog can whistle when
it is alarmed. Groundhogs also
whistle in the spring when they
begin courting.
Insects do not bother groundhogs, and germs
pretty much leave them alone. They are resistant
to the plagues that periodically wipe out large
numbers of wild animals. One reason for this is
their cleanliness.
Groundhogs are one of the few animals that really
hibernate. Hibernation is not just a deep sleep. It is
actually a deep coma, where the body temperature drops
to a few degrees above freezing, the heart barely beats,
the blood scarcely flows, and breathing nearly stops.
Young groundhogs are usually
born in mid-April or May, and by
July they are able to go out on
their own. The size of the litter is
four to nine. A baby groundhog is
called a kit or a cub.
If Candlemas be
fair and bright,
Come, winter, have
another flight.
If Candlemas
brings cold
and rain,
Go, winter, and
come not again.
Clarion university
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The
ClarionProject
# TheClarionProject is a thank you to everyone who makes Clarion University possible.
Prompt: What do you love most about Clarion University and why? Try to have your response
reach at least two paragraphs. I want to hear your story, because everyone has one!
To read stories or share your own, visit Let’s Try This Angle – Foster’s Photography page on
Facebook, or email Foster at lttafostersphotography@gmail.com.
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Hi there! My name is Megan Foster, and
I’m the photographer behind the camera.
For my last semester at Clarion
University, I want to do something that
could change the school for the better.
I want to be able to bring the school
closer together.
On Facebook, there is a page called
Humans of New York. There, Brandon,
the HONY photographer, goes around
the city (and the world, really) and
takes the picture of its citizens. He then
asks about them and posts their photo
and life story to the page.
The Clarion Project is similar.
However, instead of getting life stories, I
want to know why the people that make
up Clarion University chose this school. I
also want to know what they love most
about it. I want this to be about them
and their relationship with the school.
Whether it be a student, professor or
staff member, I want their story.
Anyway, I guess I should answer
my own questions. I chose Clarion
University because it offered a course
in library science, a field in which I had
always been interested. I also chose
it because of what I heard about the
faculty and professors. At Clarion, I am
not a number, but a person with a name.
Those who work behind the scenes and
those who teach us know us by name.
They genuinely care about us. This is
also what I love most about this campus.
The educators that are employed here
are some of the most caring, kindhearted, individuals I have ever met.
Over the last six years here at the
home of the Golden Eagles, I have seen
a lot – some good, some bad – but
everything made the college just that
much more amazing. It’ll be bittersweet
when I walk across that stage and
receive my master’s hood. I will miss the
campus. I will miss my friends. But most
of all, I will miss the community that
has been built – the bond that is seen
between those who make up Clarion
University.
I will miss that the most.
Megan Foster (’14)
Clarion university
magazine
19
education faculty joy degree events
professors small town
fortunate students
pride
home dedication
internship
accredited individuals
minor
impactful
Clarion
success
connections
coaches
legacy
lifetime campus
mentoring happy
focus
opportunity
graduation
amazing organizations
friendships staff
sciences Cook Forest
professional outdoors
major imagine
community
fulfill educators memories athletes
undergraduate
world encourage experience
caring
involved
thanks
job dreams teach athletic
University
proud
information
careers
Golden Eagles support
college
goals business
senior
kind-hearted changes
family canoeing learn
team heart win
love accomplishment
Autumn Leaf Festival
In May, I will be reaching 32 years of working for the university. The one
thing that I love most about Clarion is the kids. I love the kids because they
keep me young. They are very polite, calling me ‘Grandma’ or by my name.
‘Hi Lois!’ ‘Hey Lois, how are you!’ they say. These students are the reason I
get up to come to work, and I look forward to them. In my eyes, all these
kids are my kids. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Working at Clarion keeps me young as well, but the breaks make
me kind of lazy. That happens with all of us, though. I look forward to
coming back each semester. I also love all the changes the university has
made, from adding The Den to moving Starbucks. These have helped the
university for the better!”
Lois McLean
32-year veteran of Clarion University
What I liked most about Clarion University were the friends I made and still
have, the outdoorsy campus and my education. I graduated in 1979 with a
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, which I believe I use every day in some way.
I remember Forest Manor, sled riding down the hill by Campbell Hall, and
canoeing at Cook Forest. I still go back every year for Autumn Leaf to meet
my friends – lots of good memories and still making more.
Now, both of my children are attending Clarion, so the legacy lives on! I was
thrilled when my children expressed an interest in attending Clarion. I think
because I had such a great overall experience there, I wanted that for them,
too. My daughter has gone on to obtain her master’s degree, also at Clarion,
and my son is looking to do his internship this summer and may be graduating
early! Both should be able to obtain good jobs after graduation!”
Lorie Foster (’79)
Megan’s mom
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Dr. Jeff Eicher
Professor of finance
“I like a lot of things about Clarion University, including the small town atmosphere
and the campus. But, what I like most are the students and the faculty/staff that I work
with. I enjoy the opportunity to get to know my students one-on-one and to help
them as they move through their undergraduate careers and out into their professional
careers. It is gratifying to see them learn and grow, and, hopefully, become successful.
The students work hard and appreciate the efforts that faculty extend on their behalf
and that, of course, is particularly meaningful to a teacher.
I am also fortunate to work with and for some exceptionally gifted and caring
individuals. The faculty and staff of the College of Business and Information Sciences are
top flight, and their dedication to their disciplines and their students is always wonderful
to see and to be a part of. I believe that their hearts are in the right place in that their
primary focus and concern is the education and welfare of their students. Our current
dean is a difference maker, and I enjoy working with him immensely. I consider myself
fortunate to be part of the Clarion family.”
The reason I chose Clarion University was for the College of Business AACSB
accredited program. I knew in high school I wanted to go into some form of business,
but was undecided on which route to take. After my first semester I fell in love with
Clarion and the university as a whole. Not only did I gain lifelong friendships, I’ve
encountered nothing but caring and education-driven professors who care about
each student’s success.
Now, being a senior I can truly appreciate the education I have gained here. In four
years I am proudly graduating with two majors and a minor along with a lifetime of
memories. Looking back on my last four years here brings up so many emotions.
Memories such as A.L.F, being a CU cheerleader, or even winning the Miss Clarion
University pageant are cherished so dearly to me. The memories students make
here last a lifetime. I could go on and on about my love for this campus and would
encourage anyone to experience what Clarion University has to offer.
Jesse Snyder (’14)
Lauren Bovard
Senior
“When I think about my time at Clarion, I think about all of the mentors who
challenged and supported me, the professors who pushed me to do better and
friends that I’ll have for the rest of my life. I also think of the people whom I never
thanked, the apologies I have yet to give, or letting some people know how much
they mean to me.
Being a first generation college student, every experience at Clarion was new
for me and my family. Coupled with living on the other side of the state, attending
Clarion could have easily become problematic. Instead, Clarion became my home.
I spent every summer on campus working odd jobs, became involved in as many
organizations as possible, and shared my experience with everyone I knew.
Flash forward to now. I am finishing up my master’s degree and working
full-time at Ohio University, mentoring first-generation college students. Clarion
equipped me to be the best professional I can be and enabled me to mentor these
students so that they can find joy and success.
Clarion university
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21
Why Clarion University?
Simple answer is that I
was actually supposed to
go to RMU but funds fell
through and Clarion was
the answer. Clarion is so
much more than a financial
reason. Clarion helped
shape me and save my life.
When I came to Clarion I
was a bit lonely, but I found
friendship and support. I
found a home away from
home. I joined Allies and
found out what true love
and pride are. Clarion was
my saving grace.
Shelby Ehrin (’14)
What I like most about Clarion University
is the sense of family that a small university
provides. The connections that are able to be
made with the students is amazing.
When I attend athletic events, I don’t
show up to just to see if the Golden Eagles
are going to win. I am there to support the
student-athletes as individuals and as a team.
These young women and men bring so much
life to campus. I am there to support the
coaches, people I am proud to call friends. It
is truly a Golden Eagle Family.
Chad Thomas
Director of auxiliary
operations
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Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Morgan
Anthony
Woodin
“I love Clarion because it’s been such an impactful
piece of my puzzle. I went from my small hometown to
a new small town expecting to have the same feelings,
but it’s been so much better than expected.
Clarion has, without a doubt, become my home, and
I’ve gained a second family in the friends that I’ve
become close to. Without Clarion, I wouldn’t be the
person I’ve developed into today.”
“What I like most about Clarion
University are the students. I grew up in
a
part of Missouri that is just like western
Pennsylvania in many ways. It’s primarily
rural and quite poor, and the people who
lived there either farmed or provided
some kind of service work for the
agricultural industry, or they commuted
hours every day to Kansas City to
labor in factories or in the construction
industry.
Opportunities for higher education were rare, and seldom did anyone
leave the area to find greater fortune elsewhere. I loved my life in
Missouri, but I recognized when I was quite young that if I stayed there, I
would remain poor and uneducated and would never know how great my
life could actually be.
So, when I teach or talk to the students at Clarion University, I feel like
I am talking to everyone I have ever known or cared about who wanted,
just like me, to find a better life. They want to learn about the world,
to succeed financially, to put themselves in a better position to help
others, and to find a job that they love and which provides them with a
permanent sense of pride and accomplishment.
I know what it is like to want all of this and to do all of this, and I know
that I can help them to accomplish their goals. I like Clarion University,
then, because it provides me an opportunity to genuinely help young
people to fulfill their own dreams and to have happier lives. I cannot
imagine a better vocation.”
Dr. Jamie Phillips
Professor of philosophy
Ask Megan Foster why she loves Clarion University, and her eyes
fill. She smiles and apologizes as she fans her face, attempting to
dry the tears.
The bubbly grad student from New Brighton takes a deep
breath.
“My first week here, as a freshman who was terrified of being
90 minutes away from home, I was so homesick. I have ADD, and
I worked with Disability Services. They helped me tremendously,
as did Counseling Services,” she said. She’s been reaching for the
stars ever since.
Foster graduated magna cum laude with her bachelor’s degree
in 2014 and will graduate in May with her Master of Science in
Library Science. She is a black belt in shokotan (a form of karate),
writes role play fiction and is a self-described “huge gamer.” She
has her own photography business, and she works at Best Buy,
where her goal is to brighten the day of everyone she encounters.
For Foster, finishing her master’s degree is “the cherry on top.”
She plans to combine what she’s learned in the classroom with
skills acquired through campus jobs and involvement with Campus
Fest and Social Media Roundtable, as well as with research
experience and interning at Clarion County Historical Society.
To thank Clarion, she created The Clarion Project, photographing
and collecting stories of the people who comprise the Clarion
University family. The stories are posted on her Let’s Try This Angle
– Foster’s Photography page on Facebook.
Clarion university
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23
Fusilli tackles a waterfall
in Tokette Falls, Ore.
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Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
On The
Edge
Ask Dave Fusilli what he’s been doing
since graduating in 2004, and he’ll tell
you he’s been floating around the world.
Sounds leisurely, right?
More accurately, Fusilli has been floating
from one adrenaline rush to the next.
Fusilli hikes to put in at
Upper Cherry Creek, near
Yosemite, Calif.
Clarion university
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25
A
fter graduating from ClarionLimestone High School, Fusilli wanted
nothing more than to move to
Colorado and be a snowboard bum.
His mom wouldn’t hear of it, though,
and she pushed her son to further his
education.
Fusilli enrolled at Clarion. He had
been active in high school sports, but
he wasn’t playing sports in college.
Realizing he needed an outlet, Fusilli
went back to kayaking, the sport in
which his family had always been
active.
The Fusilli family regularly
attended the Cheat River Festival
along the banks of the Cheat River in
Albright, W.Va.
“It’s one of the only free-flowing
rivers in the east. There’s a beautiful
canyon; it’s a really cool place,” Fusilli
said. “One morning we jumped in the
boat and paddled our kayaks back. I
remember flipping and rolling. I did
that the whole way down the river. I
had a blast.”
He was 19 at the time, and he was
addicted.
“Basically from that day on, I was
just trying to get in water as much as
possible,” Fusilli said. “I just wanted to
kayak, period. I wanted to be on the
water every day.”
At Clarion, Fusilli finished two
bachelor’s degrees, in environmental
science and geology. Two days
after commencement, he moved to
Colorado, intending to make a living
in his kayak.
“I started raft guiding, and my
skills got better and better,” he said.
In 2007, Pyranha, a manufacturer
of specialist whitewater kayaks,
sponsored him.
Fusilli’s first experience
in a kayak was as
a 7-year-old in the
Clarion University pool.
“Pyranha gave me a little cash, a
gas card and a vehicle in which to
travel around and do competitions,”
Fusilli said. He now represents
Pyranha full time. During the United
States’ winter months, he pushes the
limits, competing in places such as
Chile, Ecuador and Austria.
“I was flown to Mexico for a big
competition, where there was a oneof-a-kind, big waterfall. It went from
a 30-footer (drop) into a 60-footer
into a 40-footer. We were judged on
fluidity, style and difficulty of line. It’s
the first time we’d ever done anything
like that in kayaking, period.”
A little more than a year ago, he
moved again, to White Salmon, Wash.
“That’s my home. I’m eight miles
from the put-in of maybe the best
creek in the United States, the Little
White Salmon,” Fusilli said. “The
white water is rated class one to
“ I just wanted to kayak,
period. I wanted to be
on the water every day.”
26
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
class five – class one is like the Upper
Clarion River before it gets dammed.
(The Little White Salmon) is real
steep and aggressive with waterfalls
and big boulders.”
Getting his feet wet
Fusilli’s first experience in a kayak
was as a 7-year-old in the Clarion
University pool.
“My dad taught me. He used a
homemade boat and homemade
skirt. Kayaking gear was of poor
quality then. It’s come a long way,”
Fusilli said. “It’s a very young sport.
Gear – especially whitewater gear – is
evolving.”
“My dad is a pioneer of white
water kayaking,” Fusilli said of David
W. “Big Dave” Fusilli (’79). “There are
definitely folks ahead of him, but not
many.”
The elder Fusilli grew up in
Pittsburgh and spent time at
Ohiopyle, where he saw kayaking for
the first time.
“People had to make their own
kayaks,” he said. “Back when Dad
started, no one could roll.”
As he grew up, the Fusilli family
often could be found navigating local
waterways.
“A lot of it was paddling on Mill
Creek, a tributary to Clarion River.
That’s basically where I learned. Dad
would take us over the hill, two miles
from our house. Going down that first
time, with the brown, muddy water,
was a little intimidating,” he said. “I
remember my brother as an infant, in
canoes, going down the Clarion River.
We’ve always been on the water.”
He recalls one excursion as a
youngster when the creek water was
especially high. “I was crying. My
mom took her sock off and tied the
back of her kayak to the front of mine
and pulled me down the river.”
As Fusilli grew, so did his
proficiency and comfort in the water.
“I remember taking a class at
Slippery Rock (University) when I was
8 or 9 years old, in which I learned
different skills from different people,”
he said. His early years in a kayak
were spent paddling Slippery Rock
Creek, the Youghiogheny River and
the lower Youghiogheny.
Fusilli’s first time on the lower
Yough was when he was 10 years old.
“It seemed massive. The waves
were like, ‘Whoa!’ It was pretty
intimidating,” he said. “My dad
wanted nothing more than for me
to be a kayaker. The gear sucked
– it was pretty cold and not super
comfortable.”
Fusilli and friends kayak
White Salmon River, Wash.
Fusilli goes over the edge
of Spirit Falls on Little
White Salmon River, Wash.
Clarion university
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27
Fusilli at Spirit Falls on
Little White Salmon River,
Wash.
Taking the plunge
“My first waterfall was probably
Wonder Falls in Big Sandy River in
West Virginia. It was a 17- or 18-foot
drop,” Fusilli said. “I didn’t even look
– I knew it was safe. My dad lined me
up at the top. It was pretty calm.”
The feeling afterward? “It was
awesome, like winning the Super
Bowl!”
The drops Fusilli conquers in his
kayak are of increasing challenge. His
biggest drop so far has been a 90foot drop down a vertical waterfall.
“It’s just been a progression. I’ve
built up from the 18-footer.”
Fusilli said he’s had a couple of
close calls, being stuck in hydraulics
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Spring 2016
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(river features in which water is
cyclical). “My body recirculated a few
times – kind of like being in a washing
machine,” he said.
“Those times are so few. I’ve
had two pretty bad swims out of
thousands and thousands of days
on the river. I’ve been injured a few
times,” he said.
Still, he finds the sport to have
broad appeal in the age demographic.
“Yesterday I paddled a class fourplus run. There were guys out there
who were 70 years old. The overall
impact on your body isn’t much,
Fusilli said. “What’s cool about white
water, as a kid you can do white
water and be safe when you learn the
basic skills.”
“ It was awesome,
like winning the
Super Bowl.”
Rescue
As with any man vs. nature
showdown, there are some dangers.
As an experienced kayaker, Fusilli
had been eyeing Hamma Hamma
Falls on the Olympic Peninsula in
Washington state. He had visited
the waterfall a few years prior to
finally making the run, but he had
a tweaked rib, so he took it easy on
that trip.
“It haunted me – I had three
years of thinking about running the
fall,” he said. He and three friends
finally went back.
“We get there, and the water
level is perfect. That’s important
in taller waterfalls. If there isn’t
enough water, you’ll make a bigger
impact. Water creates aeration and
makes it soft.”
“One kid (Bren) had been
wanting to run waterfalls. He was all
fired up.”
Fusilli reviewed the run with him.
It was a 20-foot waterfall, then a
short pool into a 60-foot waterfall.
The 20-footer was the harder of the
two because it had a curl of water
coming off the right side of it. That
curl would want to set the kayaker
left. Fusilli explained that Bren
would want to fall with the flow,
then take a really late left stroke,
otherwise he’d end up with the bow
putting him in an eddy on the right.
“That’s what I’m nervous about,”
Fusilli cautioned.
Fusilli went first and considered,
once he navigated the 20-foot drop,
continuing on to the 60-footer.
“I had a second thought of
making sure he gets down, so I
paused. I see him come straight
off and get shoved right in the
catcher’s mitt. He’s getting
pushed into a wall. I see all of this
happening. He had come out of the
boat and reaches this perfect hand
hold on the rock.
“I see that, and I’m looking
around. I have very little to stand
on – just a wet, angled rock. I had
a tether tied to my life jacket, so I
clipped it to my kayak, scrambled
onto the rock, then I get the throw
bag out – it’s basically a bag full of
rope.
“He’s still hanging on, and it’s
getting close to a minute that he’d
been there. I yelled, ‘Bren! Rope!’
and I threw it a little upstream to
allow the current to float it down to
him. Sure enough, he grabbed it. I
pulled as hard as I’ve ever pulled,
right across the lip of a 60-foot
waterfall. I was tired as hell, and
he was exhausted. It was almost 10
years of experience happening in
one minute.
“At that point, his boat runs
the 60-footer without him. Bren
is stuck in a pocket, sitting on this
rock, no way to get out. I was trying
to figure out how we’d get out of
there, but I still really wanted to run
this waterfall – I’d been thinking
about it for years. I’m on the lip …
I have to go. I rolled off the lip and
had a great line!”
After the run, Fusilli and the
other two friends hiked back to the
top of the waterfall and threw a
rope down to Bren, who had been
sitting there, cold, for two hours.
“The three of us just extracted
him up 50 feet. It was an insane
day.”
As for Bren – “We went back a
couple of weeks later, and he ran it.”
To watch the rescue unfold, visit http://demshitz.com/kayaker-saved-just-before-swimming-over-a-60-foot-waterfall/
Clarion university
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29
Going pro
Fusilli paddles
Oh Be Joyful
Creek, Crested
Butte, Colo.,
“I had a friend, Bob Petty (’01),
who was going to college at Clarion.
I watched him progress from being
an OK paddler to improving a ton,”
Fusilli said. “That’s how I ended up
raft guiding. I wanted to be on the
water all day, kayaking. After work I‘d
do another run. I could make money
and be on the water every day. That
got my skllls way better.”
Fusilli, at the edge
Metlako Falls, Ore.
After raft guiding on the eastern
side of the United States during
summers in college, Fusilli went to
Colorado, where a friend convinced
him to take part in a freestyle
competition.
“I did that competition the next
year, and I did another one that
summer in Colorado. At the end of
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Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
the summer, Pyranha Kayaks got
ahold of me.”
A local kayak shop that gave Fusilli
discounts on gear was a Pyranha
dealer. When the shop owner heard
that Pyranha was looking for good
freestyler paddler to help grow the
brand, he gave them Fusilli’s name.
“I’ve been to Mexico, Uganda, all
over Canada and all over the United
States,” Fusilli said. “I’ve paddled the
best places on the east coast – in
New York, West Virginia and North
Carolina. Colorado is pretty good.
California, when they have snow, is
incredible. Washington and Oregon
are ridiculous,” Fusilli said. “Anywhere
you have big mountains.”
The good life
Fusilli lives in Washington with his
girlfriend, Gina, and his younger brother,
Rob, whom Fusilli says is “damn good” in a
kayak.
“He paddles with me, runs the stuff I
run,” he said.
What others would view as a challenging
lifestyle is exactly what Fusilli loves about it.
“I don’t have a house or a nice car. I’ve
gone for years without even paying rent,
just wandering around,” he said. “People
like their comforts – having a home base
and set routine – if you’re that way, this is
very difficult for you.”
He wouldn’t want it any other way.
“When you have a certain goal in life
and things you want to do, if you want
to do them badly enough, you’ll do them
whatever way possible. The things I have
are all free – the kayak, gear, anything else
I have. I don’t have unnecessary things. I
don’t have things that make me look rich.
When he needs to slow down and mellow
out, he simplifies even further.
“I just like camping and being outside.
My dad has always loved being outside.
He shared that with us and our mother
strongly,” Fusilli said.
“My goal is always to continue to kayak
and live the way I want to live. I’m outside
almost all the time, I have tons of freedom.
I’m not really tied down. I don’t have to sit
inside at a desk. I don’t have a schedule
unless I make it.
“ When you have
a certain goal in life
and things you want
to do, if you want
to do them badly
enough, you’ll do
them whatever way
possible.”
Demshitz legacy
“What are demshitz up to now?” “Where did
demshitz get off to this time?” – the words
that started it all, by a disgruntled “Big Dave”
Fusilli and friend Jay Seiler and yelling out
from a camp fire, wondering where their kids
had gotten off to, a long day on the river not
enough to tire their rambunctious energy. It
all started with family – Jay and his two boys,
Jared and Graham, and “Big Dave” and his kids
Dave, Carly and Rob. Siblings joined, friends
joined. The river lifestyle was the lifestyle.
As the kids turned into adults, their passion
for pushing the limits of their paddling drew
attention. More and more people wanted to be
a part of that energy. Demshitz was born, and
more friends joined their extended family.
Werner, another of Fusilli’s sponsors, paid
homage to the family and the lifestyle by
creating limited edition Demshitz paddles.
Clarion university
magazine
31
high
aim
The drive from the University of Pennsylvania to Clarion is just a shade over 300
miles and takes somewhere in the neighborhood of four hours and 34 minutes, traffic
permitting. But for Melissa O’Neil Yearous, after one of the most challenging days
of her collegiate track & field career, it must have felt much, much longer.
O’Neil had completed a standout basketball career and was in the midst of a
senior track season that would end with her becoming the first All-American in
program history. Her performance at the Penn Relays – a three-day track & field
meet that becomes the center of that sport’s world the last weekend of every April –
was the spark for O’Neil’s accolades, though not in the way many would think.
The high jump event was set to begin with an abnormally high opening jump of five
feet, six inches – “I’d cleared that before, but I’d certainly never started there
before!” said O’Neil – and one of the best field athletes in Clarion history couldn’t
get past the first round of jumps.
“I bombed it. I just bombed it,” O’Neil said.
Not a word passed between O’Neil and former head coach Pat Mooney as
the two drove back to campus. Not until the very end of the drive.
“Coach Mooney dropped me off at my car, and I’ll never forget what he said to
me right then. He told me, ‘Don’t worry about it. I’ve never had a senior do
anything at that meet,’” O’Neil said.
The words stung O’Neil. For someone as confident in her abilities and motivated for
success as her, knowing that she let her coach, let herself, down was difficult. Instead
of crumbling, though, she vowed to make things right.
“I was going to make damn sure that never happened again,” said O’Neil, biting off
each word like it was still April 2001.
32
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
T
o hear O’Neil tell it, her first
love was always the game of
basketball, so much so that she
decided at a young age what she
wanted to do for a career.
“Where I have been so blessed is that
I knew in fifth grade that I was going
to become a basketball coach when I
grew up,” said O’Neil. “I was going to
camps in the summer, playing pick-up
at every opportunity, and as I got older
that morphed into working at camps and
forming relationships with coaches and
players.”
A dyed-in-the-wool Hawkeye, the
Iowa native had a decision to make in
high school. She had the opportunity
to attend the University of Iowa and
compete on the track & field team but
did not want to give up on her dream to
play college basketball. O’Neil knew that
it would be difficult to do both at Iowa,
where both coaches would be leery of
her splitting her attention. After a frank
conversation with the basketball coaches
at Iowa, the door to following both of her
passions appeared when former Clarion
women’s basketball coach Gie Parsons
came calling.
“The folks at Iowa worked behind the
scenes, calling other coaches they knew
that were looking for a scholarship player
at the Division II level,” said O’Neil. “Gie
called me and invited me to campus, and
I came out for a visit.”
Clarion Years
O’Neil said she instantly fell in love
with Clarion – “by the time I left the visit,
I told my parents I was committing there
and we could figure out the details later”
– but she still wanted to compete on the
track. After discussions with Parsons
and Mooney in which they agreed to let
O’Neil compete both in basketball and
track, she made the trek halfway across
the country to Pennsylvania.
“At first it was difficult for me, being
so far from home,” O’Neil said. “This is
before cell phones, so it’s not like I could
just call or text them when I wanted. I
don’t even think we were really using email
yet. The people at Clarion did everything
they could to make it feel like family and
home for me.”
O’Neil was a two-time Second Team
All-PSAC West selection in basketball and
finished her Clarion career as one of only
a small handful of players to record 1,000
points and 500 rebounds in her career. She
was seen as a leader for the Golden Eagles,
especially in her ability to take burdens off
the shoulders of her teammates.
“I remember we used to run something
called the “70 Percent Drill” in practice that
we all hated,” recalled O’Neil. “Coach would
put garbage cans out in the gym and we
would have to sprint until someone shot 70
percent or someone got sick. I never cared
how exhausted I was, I would always try to
shoot my free throws first and milk every
second of the clock I could to let them
catch their breath.”
“Being able to stretch yourself
emotionally and physically, calming your
heart rate in difficult situations, that’s
mental toughness.”
That same mental toughness is
what allowed O’Neil to overcome the
disappointment of her performance at the
Penn Relays in her senior year. Many would
have been discouraged, but she became
even more determined to prove herself
against the best in the country. O’Neil
qualified for the NCAA Championships in
a meet the next week and headed west
for the 2001 Championships hosted by
Southern Illinois-Edwardsville.
The conditions were cold and windy that
day – not necessarily ideal for the majority
of competitors, but hardly out of the
ordinary for the Iowa product.
“Back then we didn’t have all the
modern cold gear like tights or Under
Armour, just minimal tight clothing, and we
practiced every day in the sleet, rain and
wind,” O’Neil said. “Even though I was 16th
on the performance list, I knew I could beat
anyone there because of the way I trained
and my mental toughness. Nothing was
going to stop me.”
O’Neil tied for fourth in the nation that
day with a high jump of 1.67 meters, or five
feet, five and three-quarter inches. And
even though he stayed in the press box and
didn’t make his way down to the field, she
knew what Pat Mooney was thinking as she
jumped.
“He didn’t want to get in my way,” said
O’Neil, who said the two shared a laugh
after the meet was over. “I knew he was
watching, but I knew I could do it.”
Being able to stretch yourself
“
emotionally and physically,
calming your heart rate
in difficult situations,
that’s mental toughness.”
Clarion university
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33
New Paths
After graduating O’Neil became a
graduate assistant coach at Syracuse
under head coach Marianna Freeman,
joining the Orange in their first NCAA
Tournament run since the 1988 season.
She pursued a master’s degree in
advertising and moved on to Indiana
(Pa.) where she served as a full-time
assistant under Cindy Martin. O’Neil
was finally living the goal she set for
herself when she was 10 years old, but
something was missing. Three years
after joining the staff at IUP, O’Neil left
the basketball coaching profession and
returned with her husband and family to
Iowa.
“I was reflecting on the situation
and realized that I wanted to explore a
different path,” O’Neil said. “I had missed
a lot of my daughter growing up because
of the grind of college basketball
coaching and recruiting, and I realized I
didn’t want to miss any more.”
Make an impact
O’Neil took a position as a challenge
coordinator at Iowa State University
Extension – Polk County and found that
it gave her the satisfaction of coaching
individuals to their full potential without
the other caveats the college game
provided. The switch had flipped.
“I spent seven years teaching
emotional intelligence on the ropes
course,” O’Neil said. “We were able
to help people build self-efficacy. It’s
different than building their self-esteem,
which is getting people to accept
themselves and their own personalities.
Self-efficacy is believing you can have an
impact on your world.”
The work O’Neil did over those
seven years reached a wide array of
people, ranging from students dealing
with bullying in school to employees of
major corporations trying to take the
next steps in their careers. According
to O’Neil, the message was always the
same: if you can do this, what else can
you accomplish?
34
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
I told her, ‘Listen, the first time
you jump, and you miss and land
on the bar, it’s going to hurt.’
“It’s a process of getting people to
build their confidence and maintain it,”
O’Neil said. “When people got ready
to go down our zip line, they had the
confidence that in taking that first step
off they were going to be alright. In doing
that, they’re less afraid of taking the next
step once they get back on the ground.”
Take a Stand
O’Neil, always ready for another
challenge, became vice president of Iowa
Jobs for America’s Graduates (iJAG) in
August 2013. If ISU Extension was about
teaching self-efficacy to a wide range
of people, iJAG was about instilling
that value in young people to make a
long-lasting difference in their lives. A
non-profit organization that focuses on
dropout prevention and school-to-career
paths for Iowa’s high school students,
iJAG works with more than 2,000 at-risk
students in Iowa – including roughly 25
percent who had neither parent complete
high school - and shows them the power
they possess in themselves to change
their communities.
“We’re teaching these kids to take a
stand for something,” O’Neil said. “Be
it a social justice issue, a political issue,
anything that they feel passionately
about. If they believe it with all of their
heart, we’re going to give them the
confidence to stand up for it.”
“It’s incredible to see what these kids
are willing to do for their communities,
what they’re willing to sacrifice for
others,” O’Neil said. “So many of them
live in poverty, not knowing where their
next meals will come from, and they’re
doing things like food drives for other
people! There’s so much selflessness.”
“We want these kids not just to
graduate, but to graduate with hope for
the future.”
Set goals
In February 2016 O’Neil accepted a
new role as CEO of Central Iowa Shelter
and Services in Des Moines, the largest
homeless shelter in the state. Naturally,
though, O’Neil doesn’t refer to it simply
as a homeless shelter.
“I like to refer to it as the ‘Opportunity
Center,’” she says.
Even though she doesn’t have a
whistle around her neck or a ball in her
hand any longer, O’Neil still considers
herself a coach.
“I still have that purpose, that passion
when it comes to trying to push people
beyond what they believe is possible,”
she said. “My wish for this world is that
more young people could find those
things and pursue them.”
There’s one young person in particular,
though, that she takes special joy in
“coaching.”
“My daughter is the spitting image
of me,” laughed O’Neil. “She’s going to
be going into track for the first time this
year, and I started showing her the high
jump. I told her, ‘Listen, the first time you
jump, and you miss and land on the bar,
it’s going to hurt,’ and she looked at me
and said, ‘Why would you do that?’”
“I told her fear shouldn’t discourage
you or hold you back. It has to be what
drives you to persevere and keep trying
to get over it,” O’Neil said. “When I talk
to her she says things like she wants to
be an entrepreneur, and that she wants
to do something with that and robotics.
She’s so young but she’s already got
goals to strive for.”
Sounds familiar.
Take a few minutes to talk with
Brock Zacherl, and one thing
will become apparent
very quickly: The young
man has no shortage
of confidence, and
that’s for a very
good reason.
Brock
Zacherl
In his first year as a competing member
of the wrestling team, Zacherl has shown to
be one of the best wrestlers in his weight
class – not just in the Eastern Wrestling
League, but in all of NCAA Division I. After
dropping a bout to
Northern Illinois’
Steve Bleise Nov.
7, Zacherl won 20
straight matches to
improve to 27-1 on
the season. He rode that winning streak
through the entire Eastern Wrestling
League tournament, earning a berth to the
NCAA Championships as a result. As of
March 8, he was ranked 18th in the nation
at his weight class by InterMat Wrestling, a
nod that is indicative of
the respect he’s garnered
across the country.
Zacherl doesn’t try to
pretend that he doesn’t
aren’t the focus, though. The
goal isn’t to be ranked, it’s to
win a championship. But…”
He grinned.
“I know I’m better than
what they say. It’s on me to go
out there and prove it.”
As for any freshman,
the first days of a college
education can be rough.
However, the “rough” portion
that most of those freshmen
go through doesn’t include
the physical and mental toll of
college wrestling. Even for
Zacherl, a heralded recruit
from nearby Brookville,
there was an adjustment
period in fall 2014.
“Oh man, it was a
wake-up call,” Zacherl said. “You come in
from high school where you were the big
dog and might be physically more capable
than everyone else, and then you’re on a
team where everyone already has that? It’s
tough.”
“I know I’m better than what they say.
It’s on me to go out there and prove it.”
know what the rest of the wrestling world
is saying about him, either. In fact, he uses
that as motivation to get better.
“I mean, it’s hard not to know about the
rankings and things like that with Facebook
and Twitter,” Zacherl said. “Those things
Clarion university
magazine
35
“I just tried to come in every day and
work hard and avoid the rollercoaster. If
you do that, the tables can turn and turn
fast.”
Zacherl recalled the steep learning
curve in going against Division I
competition every day in practice, but
there was an added catch in his case: he
would redshirt during the 2014-15 season.
He would be able to practice with the
team and could compete unattached at
open tournaments but was not allowed to
wrestle in dual meets.
“It was definitely different than
anything I’d experienced before, and it
was weird at first,” Zacherl said. “I knew I
was part of the team but didn’t always feel
like it.”
“Anytime you make a decision about
a redshirt – whether you do or don’t – it’s
tough,” said head coach Keith Ferraro. “At
the time we had a fifth-year senior at 141
pounds that we knew could do a good job,
but I also know the benefit Brock would
take from that redshirt year. I knew his
mindset and had faith that he would use
the year to the best ends possible.”
Viewing this as an opportunity to grow
and improve – “I viewed it as a chance to
prosper and I feel I really excelled at it,”
Zacherl said – the freshman displayed his
ability in open tournaments and put his
name on the college wrestling radar.
“He used the redshirt year the way
you’re supposed to use it,” Ferraro
said. “He trained hard, wrestled a ton of
matches and learned something valuable
from every win and every loss. He set
himself up for success.”
Zacherl won the Mat Town and Purple
Raider open tournaments at 141 pounds
as he continued to hone his skills on
the mat. He qualified for the national
freestyle tournament due to his placing
at prominent tournaments such as the
ASICS/Vaughan Junior National Freestyle
Championships and the United World
Wrestling Cadet and University Nationals.
Zacherl parlayed that success into a
spot at the UWW Junior World Team Trials
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Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
“
He trained hard, wrestled a
ton of matches and learned
According to Ferraro,
watching Zacherl’s
transformation during
this stretch highlighted
the qualities that have
made him successful in
2015-16.
“No matter who the
competition is, Brock
enters every tournament
to win,” Ferraro said.
“Looking back on that
training cycle, he was
as disciplined as I’d ever
seen him. To cut the weight he did to
wrestle at 132 and wrestle as well as he
did is really remarkable.
“There was low margin for error and
he handled it perfectly.”
“It was the most exciting trip I’ve ever
been on in my life,” said Zacherl, who
wrestled against 2014 UWW Junior World
something valuable from
every win and every loss. He
set himself up for success.”
–Ferraro
event in Madison, Wisc., in June, where he
won the 132-pound weight class. He cleared
the nine-man bracket and defeated Gary
Wayne Harding, the top-ranked wrestler
in the event, and earned a trip to the
U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado
Springs, Colo., to wrestle for a spot on
the UWW Junior World Championships in
Brazil.
silver medalist Joey McKenna for the final
spot on the team. “It was an unbelievable
experience.”
McKenna defeated Zacherl in a
best-of-three competition to take the
team spot, but Zacherl said the level
of competition he was afforded in his
training was completely invaluable, not
just to his development but also to his
confidence.
“The senior-level Olympic team
was there while we were, so we got
to train against them as well,” Zacherl
said. “Every single day I was wrestling
against guys that won multiple NCAA
championships, Hodge Trophy finalists
[the highest honor in amateur wrestling],
and I was able to compete with them. It
made me believe I could do it, too.”
Zacherl brought that passion and
confidence back with him to Clarion in
2015. Now a redshirt freshman eligible to
compete with the rest of his teammates,
“Every single day
I was wrestling
against guys
that won
multiple NCAA
championships.”
he said his mindset had changed drastically
in just a year’s time.
“I definitely worked with a lot more
urgency this year because I knew there was
more pressure,” Zacherl said. “Whereas last
year I knew that I wouldn’t be competing in
March, this year I knew it was crunch time.
It’s more pressure, but it’s a good pressure
to have.”
On March 5, Zacherl shrugged off
the pressure and etched his name
into Clarion lore. Entering the EWL
Tournament as a top-seed in the
141-pound bracket, he stormed his way
to the finals and claimed a 7-0 decision
to earn an automatic bid to the NCAA
Championships, hosted at Madison
Square Garden.
According to Ferraro, the strongest
trait Zacherl developed in the last year
was developing a critical eye toward the
man in the mirror.
“There are some technical things
that he’s improved on, but the biggest
growth has been in his ability to
identify those weaknesses and work
relentlessly to correct them,” Ferraro
said. “He’s always seeking about the best
competition to train with, and he trains
exceptionally hard. His goal is to be a
champion, and he trains that way.”
Sports Hall of Fame
KOONTZ
BEATTY
Clarion University
Robert J. Beatty (1980; football/baseball),
Bernie Carpenter (1980; football),
Frank Edgar (2005; wrestling),
James Koontz (1979; baseball),
William “Bill” May (1968; golf), AND
Melissa (Yearous) O’Neil (2001; women’s
basketball/track & field).
(YEAROUS) O’NEIL
Edgar
2016 inductees:
MAY
CARPENTEr
Committee has announced
Induction will be April 29 at Eagle Commons dining hall.
A social starts at 5:30 p.m., followed by the ceremony at 7 p.m.
Tickets are $40 per person. To order, call Scott Courtney
at 814-393-2057 or email him at scourtney@clarion.edu.
Make checks payable to Clarion Sports Hall of Fame.
Clarion university
magazine
37
2015-2016
Basketball
men’s Basketball
Clockwise from top: Rob Agurs
earned Second Team All-PSAC West
honors and led the Golden Eagles
with eight double-doubles in 201516; key junior contributors that will
return next season include center
Akeem Williams (left), who was
one of the best shot blockers in the
PSAC last season, and high-scoring
guard BJ Andrews (right); De’Ondre
Terrell celebrates a basket in the
Golden Eagles’ early season win
over Gannon at Tippin Gymnasium;
head coach Marcess Williams led
the Golden Eagles to the PSAC
Tournament for the first time since
the 2009-10 season.
38
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
The men’s basketball team, under the direction of
second-year head coach Marcess Williams, proved themselves
to be one of the most dangerous teams in the PSAC West
division in 2015-16, thanks to a high-pressure style that
emphasizes creating havoc in the opposing backcourt. That
formula allowed the Golden Eagles to surpass last season’s
win total with six games yet to play and put them in the
PSAC Tournament for the first time since the 2009-10 season.
The Golden Eagles came from 13 points back to upset the
third-seeded Edinboro Fighting Scots in the first round of
the tournament before bowing out to Mercyhurst in the
quarterfinals.
The contributions have come from all corners of
the roster as Williams routinely finds minutes for
10 or more players on any given night. One night,
the hero could be senior swingman and Second
Team All-PSAC West performer Rob Agurs, who
is capable of playing at guard or forward and
produced a team-best eight double-doubles.
Other nights it could be senior point guard Andre’
Anthony, whose 33-point effort against Carlow
Nov. 28 was the best single-game scoring output
for a Golden Eagle since Lloyd Harrison scored 34
points against Edinboro in 2011.
Or it could be senior center Tim Gill, who led
Clarion to an upset win over Mercyhurst Feb. 6 by
bullying his way to 22 points against the Lakers.
Or freshman Cameron Grumley, who came off the
bench for 14 points for a close win over California.
Or…
Well, you get the idea. According to Williams,
the minutes on the floor aren’t necessarily predicated about
what happens when the lights turn on, but rather what a
player does when they’re off.
“It’s all based off their practice habits,” said Williams, who
said the decision to take on the identity of a pressing team
necessitated a rotation of ‘at least’ 10 players. “If you practice
well, you get bumped into the rotation. We have enough guys
that it allows us to kind of gauge them on practice and reward
the guys that work hard.
If you’re engaged and competing hard in practice, and
you’re picking up what we’re putting down, you’re going to
get that trust from us on game day.”
Women’s Basketball
After a rebuilding 2014-15
campaign for the women’s basketball
team, second-year head coach Jana Ashley
has the Golden Eagles back on track to
competing in the PSAC West division. The
team that won just one conference game
and two overall the season before improved
greatly in 2015-16; the team was in the thick
of the playoff hunt until the final week of
the season and improved by seven games
in the standings from the previous season.
Ashley says the fresh blood in the
program has been at the root of the team’s
turnaround this season.
“I think the root of our success comes
from recruiting, and that started at the
beginning of last season,” Ashley said.
“Even though we had a difficult year, the
players we secured last fall and spring
made a difference in how competitive
we could be in the league overall and in
specific games. We brought in the types of
kids that don’t accept losing and will fight
every day in practice and in games.”
Better yet, the contributions have
(necessarily) come from the team’s
underclassmen, as the Golden Eagles had
just one senior – guard Tania Holmes – on
the roster in 2016. Holmes capped an
excellent Clarion career by becoming just
the 17th player in program history to top
1,000 points, and, in fact, surpassed Hannah
Heeter for ninth on the all-time list after a
12-point effort against Mercyhurst Feb. 6.
That said, the Golden Eagles show
more promise for the future because of the
quality of those returning to the team next
season. Junior Tyra Polite showed signs of
being one of the more dangerous scorers
in the league, averaging 13.6 points per
game, but going off for 20-plus points on a
number of occasions, including a 27-point
effort against IUP Jan. 16. Delrika JonesCarey provided a spark in the post with
three double-doubles, showing the ability
to score in a variety of ways while not
sacrificing rebounding ability in the process.
Freshman Jordan Bekelja asserted
herself as a dangerous player in her rookie
season. The guard from Solon, Ohio, earned
PSAC West Freshman of the Week honors
three times in 2015-16. Other freshmen on
the squad include Taylor Moltz, a bench
post player with dangerous shooting
ability, and Nicole Maxson, a forward who
saw her playing time increase as the year
went on. Ashley reiterated, though, that it
takes everyone on the team to establish a
winning culture, something that the Eagles
have so far begun to do.
“Their attitude and toughness have gone
a long way toward changing things on
the court on game day,” Ashley said. “This
team pushes each other to get better every
single day in workouts and in practice, and
it shows up when it matters.”
(Clockwise from top): Second-year head coach Jana Ashley oversaw a
seven-game improvement in the standings in 2015-16; freshman guard
Jordan Bekelja was three times honored as the PSAC West Freshman of
the Week in 2015-16; senior guard Tania Holmes became one of just 17
players in program history to score 1,000 career points and finished her
career ranked ninth in program history in scoring; junior forward Delrika
Jones-Carey was a tough matchup in the post for opponents, recording
three double-doubles on the season.
Clarion university
magazine
39
John Burja (’88) portrays
Daisy in “Baby with the
Bathwater” in 1986.
40
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Alumni
Notes
Spring 2016
1966
Joseph Eckhardt is retired and just
published his third book, “Living Large:
Wilna Hervey and Nan Mason.” He resides
in Lansdale.
1970
1977
Theresa (Leisey) Eisele is employed with
Four Season Produce. She resides in
Reinholds.
Sharon (DArgo) Rathi retired after 10 years
as principal of Conneaut Area Sr. High
School. She resides in Meadville with her
husband, Michael.
Robert Hodgson is retired. He resides in
Jean (Borsh) and Jack (’71) Inskip reside
Harrisburg with his wife, Nancy. He has
in Fairfield. Jean was recently named
three children: Dan, Emily and Sean.
director of the Bureau of Curriculum,
Assessment and Instruction at Pennsylvania
Department of Education, Harrisburg. They
have a daughter, Dr. Megan Maurer.
Thomas Slagel handles purchasing
and estimating for Dan Ryan Builders,
Morgantown, W.Va. He resides in
Joseph and Joanne (Wiater ‘73) Donovan Morgantown with his children: Katie, Amy
and Emma.
reside in Pittsburgh. Joseph is an agent
1979
1972
with Spectrum Insurance Services, Mars.
1973
Gary Walstrom Sr. recently retired as
principal of Glendale School District after
38 years of service. He was a social studies
teacher for 20 years and an administrator
for 18 years. Gary resides in Glasgow, Pa.,
with his wife, Betsy. He has two sons.
Corinne (Hosfield ’79) Smith has written a
nonfiction book for middle-grade readers.
“Henry David Thoreau for Kids: His Life and
Ideas, With 21 Activities,” will be published
by Chicago Review Press in January 2016.
It combines biographical narrative with
hands-on suggestions so that young
students can incorporate some of Thoreau’s
ideas into their everyday lives. The book
has already gotten a favorable nod by
Kirkus Reviews, which concluded that it is
“Utilitarian of format but well organized
and with plenty of grist for both minds and
hands.” Smith’s first book, “Westward I Go
Free: Tracing Thoreau’s Last Journey,” was
released in 2012.
1980
Annamarie (Shutey) Mellett is
administrative associate to the chair of
emergency medicine for the Penn State
Hershey Medical Center, Hershey. She
resides in Harrisburg.
1981
Margaret (Kernan) Bauer is self-employed
as owner of My Laundromat, Imperial. She
resides in Georgetown with her husband,
Greg, and has three sons: Dan, Andrew and
Joe.
1990
Colonel Thomas and Tamara (Schnur ‘91)
Netzel reside in Alexandria, Va., with their
sons, Jacob and Benjamin. Thomas is in the
United States Army, Washington, D.C.
1992
Jody (Hartley) Vinson is owner of Back to
Basics Nutrition and Fitness. She resides in
Centerton, Ark., with her husband, Scott,
and sons, Jack and Clay.
1997
Krissi (Nastal) Butler is an assistant
principal for Kershaw County School
District, Camden, S.C. She resides in Lugoff,
S.C., with her husband, Brett, and children,
Savannah and Logan.
Clarion university
magazine
41
2002
1998
Stephen Williams is owner and funeral
director for Osborne-Williams Funeral
Home, Greenville. He resides in Greenville
with his wife, Christina, and sons, Stephen
and Sawyer.
1999
Mark Watts is a 5th grade teacher for
Saint Mary Magdalene Catholic School,
Columbus, Ohio. He resides in Columbus
with his wife, Nikki, and daughters: Claire,
Abigail and Quinn.
2000
Ben Stentz is executive director of
recreation and parks for the town of
Princeton, N.J. He resides in Hamilton, N.J.,
with his wife, Angela, and son, Michael.
Ashleigh Jade Kozup is a sponsorship
director for Steve Harvey, Atlanta, Ga. She
resides in Smyrna, Ga.
Paul (PJ) Carroll is a safety, health and
environment manager/business unit SHE
lead for Cobham Advanced Electronic
Solutions, Lansdale. He resides in
Pennsburg with his daughter, Riley.
Dr. Christopher and Jennifer (Kibler)
Davis reside in Greenbrier, Ark., with their
children: Emma, Noah, Addison, Kristen
and Victoria. Christopher is a vice-president
for information systems and technology for
the University of Central Arkansas, Conway,
Ark.
2001
Dr. Dennis Slagle is a neonatologist for
The Women’s Hospital – Deaconess Health
System, Evansville, Ind. He resides in
Newburgh, Ind., with his wife, Dr. Stacey
Slagle, and children: Noah, Joshua and
Eliana.
Brianne (O’Hara M.S. 03) Brinkley is a
speech/language pathologist for Howard
County Public School System, Laurel, Md.
She resides in Baltimore with her husband,
Tom, and daughters, Harper and Campbell.
42
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Cindy (Miller) McBride is an area salon
leader for JC Penney, Cranberry, Pa. She
has two children, Lindsey and Sean.
Dr. Michael and Amanda (Speth ’04) Sable
reside in Jefferson Hills with their sons,
Zane and Zeke. Michael was awarded his
Doctor of Education in advanced leadership
studies in November 2015. He is a middle
school principal at West Mifflin Area School
District.
2003
Kristin (Kneib) Parmer is an account
services coordinator for Clipper Magazine,
Mountville, Pa. She resides in Leola, Pa.,
with her husband, Justin, and children,
Alexis and Jackson.
Jessica (Wallace) and Joseph (’05)
Williamson reside in Verona with their
daughters, Adelaide and Wren. Jessica is an
optician for Insight Vision Care, Pittsburgh.
2004
Alfred Encarnacion is a library director
for Stratford Public Library. He resides in
Woodbury, NJ.
Michelle (Miller) Sakovics is a registered
nurse case manager for You Care Health
Plan, Williamsville, NY. She is also an ice
skating coach with Skate Great, Buffalo,
N.Y. She resides in Blasdell, N.Y., with her
son Austin.
2007
Kelly (Devlin) Harper is assistant principal
of Roundtown Elementary School in the
Central York School District, York. She
resides in York with her husband, Shane,
and children: Madison, Christian and Jacob.
Douglas and Ladona (Owens) Strouse
reside in Oxford, N.C. Ladona is a
supervisor clinician for Masonic Home for
Children at Oxford.
Bradley Soylan is a legislative assistant for
Congresswoman Lois Frankel, Washington,
D.C. He resides in Washington.
2008
Caleb Young is an assistant athletic
director/upper school teacher for
Dayspring Christian Academy. He resides in
Elizabethtown with his wife, Maria.
2009
Deserie (Vendetti) Sayre received a
Master of Education in literacy education
from The Pennsylvania State University
with reading specialist and literacy
leadership certifications. Deserie resides in
Mechanicsburg.
2010
Kristen (Pearce M.S. ’12) Whiteford is a
speech therapist for Healthpro. She resides
in Bellwood with her husband, Christopher.
2012
Allison (M.S.L.S ’14) Latagliata is a library
director for Marian Sutherland Kirby
Library, Wilkes-Barre. She resides in WilkesBarre.
2013
Timothy Port is a clinical treatment
supervisor for Abraxas, Marienville. He
resides in New Bethlehem.
Lindsay (Thill) and Benjamin Fiscus reside
in Wexford. Lindsay is a special education
teacher for Canon McMillen and Ben is an
internal auditor for PNC Bank.
Megan (Odonish) Leichtenberger is a
color correction specialist for Blair Corp.,
Warren. Megan resides in Sheffield with her
husband, Kyle, and children, Madilynn and
Toby.
2015
Meredith Hendrix-Jackson is library
assistant, CAS, for the Library System of
Lancaster County. She resides in Lancaster
with her wife, Kat Jackson.
we want to
know about you!
And so do your Clarion classmates. It’s easy to share your latest personal milestones and
professional accomplishments in the pages of Clarion University Magazine. Just send us a note!
Visit www.clarion.edu/alumni-update
Births
Tom and Brianne (O’Hara ’01, M.S. ’03)
Brinkley, a daughter, Campbell, March
4, 2015
marriages
Mark Engel and Janet (’98) Eggleston,
May 17, 2014
Kyle Leichtenberger and Megan (’13)
Odonish, Sept. 13, 2014
Justin Parmer and Kristin (’03) Kneib,
October 2014
Michael Rathi and Sharon (’77) DArgi,
July 18, 2015
Christopher Whiteford and Kristen
(’10, M.S. ’12) Pearce, Sept. 26, 2015
Christopher (’11) Katella and Kayla
Soltis, Oct. 3, 2015
Jason Bolen and Tracy (’03)
Weakland, Oct. 10, 2015
Ben (’00) Stentz and Angela Siso,
Oct. 11, 2015
Shane and Kelly (Devlin ’07) Harper, a
son, Jacob Michael, June 16, 2015
Kyle and Megan (Odonish ’13)
Leichtenberger, a son, Toby Robert,
Aug. 9, 2015
Joseph (’05) and Jessica (Wallace
’03) Williamson, a daughter, Wren
Sophia-Grace, Sept. 19, 2015
Mark (’99) and Nikki Watts, a daughter,
Quinn, Oct. 7, 2015
Justin and Kristin (Kneib ’03) Parmer,
a son, Jackson, Oct. 15, 2015
In Memoriam
1940s
Ilene G. (Ross ’44) Bovaird, Sept. 18, 2015
Mervin K. Strickler (’47), Sept. 18, 2015
William B. Martin (’49), Dec. 27, 2015
William D. Gilbert (’47), March 17, 2016
1950s
John J. Lutz (’57), Sept. 20, 2015
John N. Wiberg ’52, Oct. 14, 2015
Sue A. (Buzard ’58) Martonik, Oct. 27, 2015
Grace Vogus (’52), March 3, 2016
1960s
Larry B. Schrecengost ’62, Nov. 13, 2015
Carol S. (Strickland ’62) Sayers, Dec. 18, 2015
Joseph P. Shaw ’64, Dec. 23, 2015
Bonnie D. (Brannen ’69) Agostino, Jan. 29, 2016
Emily J. (Fry ’66) Conners, Feb. 6, 2016
George T. Ihnat (’62), Feb. 10, 2016
Joan A. (Moody ’66) Beichner, March 4, 2016
1970s
Dorothy J. (Willen ’72) Reitz, Oct. 20, 2015
David M. Speer (’76), Dec. 24, 2015
1980s
Elizabeth C. Eichlin ’82, Nov. 25, 2015
Beverly A. Books ’84, Jan. 26, 2016
Richard D. Sheffel (’81), Feb. 9, 2016
Joseph A. Keblitsch (’84), Feb. 29, 2016
1990s
Keith J. Rice ’92, Oct. 13, 2015
Friends
Keith Martin, Oct. 5, 2015
Jerry McKisson, Oct. 16, 2015
Sue A. Martonik, Oct. 27, 2015
Eugene Sobolewski, Nov. 14, 2015
James Blake, Dec. 18, 2015
Ellie Gardner, Dec. 24, 2015
Gail A. Fields, Jan. 8, 2016
Charles Ruslavage, Feb. 15, 2016
Clarion university
magazine
43
Our gift to baby Eagles of Clarion alumni is a dashing new
bib! To receive a bib, let us know about the new addition
to your nest by emailing to alumni@clarion.edu:
• Parents’ names
• Full address
• Graduation year of alumni
• Baby’s name and gender
• Date of birth
Once you receive your bib, take a picture of your Eaglet
putting the bib to use, and email a high-resolution photo
to us for inclusion in Clarion University Magazine.
Indie
Indie D’Annibale, daughter
of James (’13) and Shelbie
D’Annibale, born June 16, 2015
Colson
Colson Anthony Long, son of Niki
(Stedina ’01) Long, born April 21,
2015
44
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Malakye
Malakye Johnny Darr, son of Andrew
and Brittany (’13) Darr, born Oct. 13,
2015
Rowan
Rowan McKinley Yurko, daughter
of Kevin and Erin (Cooper ’05)
Yurko, born June 19, 2015
Molly
Molly McAdoo, daughter
of Josh (’07) and Lynnsey
McAdoo, born May 23, 2015
JaYda
Jayda Noonan, daughter of Steve
and Haley (Hynes ’06) Noonan,
born Nov. 17, 2014
Maxwell
Maxwell Martin, son of Carl (’13)
and Tara (’06, MS ’07) Martin,
born March 21, 2015
Summer
Summer Ealy, daughter of Aaron
and Autumn (Hall ’11) Ealy, born
Aug. 9, 2015
Liam
Liam Thomas Hetrick, son of
Jason and Lynn (Russell ’09),
born Aug. 9, 2014
Owen
Kaylynn
Kaylynn Grace Raydo, daughter
of Eric and Beth (’04) Raydo,
born June 27, 2015
Wren
Owen Paul Pollock, son of Jason
(’07) and Jennifer (Weaver ’06)
Pollock, born Aug. 31, 2015
Evelyn
Allison
Evelyn Louise Freeman, daughter
of Geoffrey (’13) and Allison
(Stoltz ’09) Freeman, born Sept.
11, 2015
Sienna
Sienna Andersen, daughter of
Ted and Marissa (Lunardi ’00)
Andersen, born Dec. 4, 2015
Allison Rebecca Sprankle, daughter
of Sean (’02) and Melissa Sprankle,
born Dec. 14, 2015
Lillian
Lillian Grace Boltz, daughter of
Chad and Mackenzie (Mayes ’15),
born March 2, 2015
Wren Sophia-Grace Williamson,
daughter of Joseph (’05)
and Jessica (Wallace ’03)
Williamson, born Sept. 19, 2015
August
August William Franzetta, son of
Anthony and Krisa (Keller ’08)
Franzetta, born March 12, 2015
Val
Val Joseph Peles, son of Dan and
Julie (Evenoski ’04) Peles, born
Aug. 6, 2015
Clarion university
magazine
45
Michalee Christy:
Exceptional
Teacher
46
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Michalee (Lopuh ’99) Christy was
named VFW Teacher of the Year in
Pennsylvania in 2015 and has been
nominated for the 2016 award.
The contest recognizes exceptional
teachers for their outstanding
commitment to teaching Americanism
and patriotism to their students. Each
year, a classroom elementary, junior
high and high school teacher whose
curriculum focuses on citizenship
education topics for at least half of the
school day in a classroom environment
can be nominated for the Smart/Maher
VFW National Citizenship Education
Teacher Award.
Christy, who is vocal director for
Mercer High School, went up against 450
other Pennsylvania educators for the
2015 honor. She was nominated through
Mercer VFW Post 6345.
“We do many different types of
patriotic influences in the classroom. Each
year is different,” Christy said. “Each year
I have all 252 students learn “The StarSpangled Banner” in four-part harmony,
then we travel around in groups of four
to 20, singing at different events in the
community.”
Several times Christy has organized
a patriots concert to honor those who
have served or are serving, and many
students will take part in the USO Concert
honoring veterans on the 4th of July.
“I simply try to teach that the gift of
voice, whether speaking or singing, can
be used to honor your country,” Christy
said.
“Mrs. Christy is more than a teacher
– she is a mentor and has made an
incredible impact in my life,” said Janalyn
Miklas, a senior at Mercer High School.
“She has impeccable insight and pushes
me to my limit in the vocal and theater
departments. I cannot thank her enough
for all the wonderful things she has done
for our school and our community.”
Another Mercer senior, Ryan Hamilton,
describes Christy as “one of the most
sincerely dedicated teachers” he has had.
“She truly cares for every one of her
students. I personally have been involved
in the choir program since seventh grade
and am now the president of the choir
department, and every step of the way
she has striven for the best that every
student can put forward,” Hamilton said.
“She teaches us not only how to sing and
perform, but she also connects music to
everyday life.”
Michalee Christy (left) and theatre professor Marilouise “Mel” Michel watch performances by
Christy’s Mercer High School students, whom she brought to campus in October for a theatre
workshop.
Clarion university
magazine
47
Courageous
endeavors
Nathan Mathewson
N
athan Mathewson hadn’t yet reached his
first birthday when he was diagnosed with CHARGE
Syndrome, a rare disorder that arises during early
fetal development and affects multiple organ
systems.
The term “CHARGE” comes from the first letter
of some of the more common features seen in
these children:
• Coloboma and cranial nerve defects
• Heart defects
• Atresia of the choanae (blocked nasal
breathing passages)
• Retardation of growth and development
• Genital underdevelopment
• Ear abnormalities and sensorineural
hearing loss
“
I have a note taker,
and I have priority
scheduling so I can
schedule classes in
an easy route.”
48
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
“It’s life-threatening from the beginning,” Mathewson
said.
He was born with a hole in his heart that had to be
repaired. He lived with a gastrostomy tube for a while.
“When they put it in, they took my appendix out, so I
have scar tissue, and multiple times it’s impacted my
entire GI tract. I’ve had a lot of surgeries for that,” he said.
His most recent surgery was to correct a muscle in
his eye in 2015. Coloboma, a condition in which normal
tissue in or around the eye is missing from birth, causes
Mathewson to be very nearsighted, and he has low
peripheral vision, blind spots and double vision. His eyes
don’t correctly process objects coming toward him, so
activities such as playing sports or driving aren’t possible
for him. He also has significant hearing impairment in his
left ear, necessitating a hearing aid.
“My childhood was not a normal one. I’m not interested
in sports, and with eye and ear issues and the resulting
balance problem, I didn’t do much running around. I
stayed inside and colored or read a book,” Mathewson
said. “I did have fun dribbling a basketball to myself, or
running around by myself. I couldn’t do structured stuff.
Not everyone realizes someone can’t roughhouse or
doesn’t like roughhousing. I was very emotional about
that kind of stuff.”
Still, Mathewson considers himself fortunate.
“I realized as I grew up that I got lucky. I’m one of the
more high-functioning people with CHARGE,” he said.
“Some people have a trach and feeding tube all their
lives.”
He also has no cognitive disabilities. He does have a
learning disability, but it wasn’t discovered until he was a
senior in high school. “It was there, but nobody ever said
anything about it. I was able to do the work.”
Now, Mathewson is a junior library science major. He
transferred to Clarion last fall after completing two years
at Community College of Allegheny County.
“I have a note taker, and I have priority scheduling
so I can schedule classes in an easy route so it’s not so
physically taxing getting around campus. This semester,
I have three online classes and classes in Founders two
days a week,” Mathewson said.
He lives in Suites on Main South. On days he doesn’t
have class, he likes to visit his favorite spots on campus –
Carlson Library, Gemmell, Eagle Commons or The Den.
Clarion University’s
Alumni Weekend
Blue&Gold
Color
RUN
Sunday, June 5, 2016
Registration at 8 a.m.; Shotgun Start at 9 a.m.
START at Clarion University Memorial Stadium;
FINISH at Page Street behind Egbert and Moore Halls
Open to Clarion University alumni, students, and the community
All proceeds benefit the Clarion University
Alumni Association Scholarship
Register online at alumniandfriends.cuf-inc.org/events
Questions: Call 814-393-2572 or Email alumni@clarion.edu
Clarion university
magazine
49
nonprofit org.
u.s. postage
paid
permit no. 2
clarion, pa
840 Wood Street
Clarion, PA 16214-1232
www.clarion.edu
June 3-5
2016
––––––––––
a few of the highlights
–––––––––––
All Alumni Reunion Banquet Honoring Class of 1966 • Distinguished Awards
Alum-Nite • Alumni-Fest Picnic • and New Blue and Gold Color Run
For more information and schedule of events, visit www.clarion.edu/alumniweekend.
For questions regarding alumni weekend, call the Alumni Relations Office at 814-393-2572.
u n i v e r s i t y
m a g a z i n e
Spring 2016
Dave Fusilli
Professional
Kayaker
melissa
O’neil
High
aims
The
Shadow
knows
The
Clarion
Project
Share Your Heritage withClarion
easiest
It’s the
major gift
you can make to us.
that’s not
And
the best part.
“We met at Clarion, we trained for our 36-year teaching careers
at Clarion, and we made many lifetime friends at Clarion. For
those reasons, we remembered Clarion University in our will.
We owe much to Clarion, and it’s our chance to give back.”
Make Clarion University part of your heritage by
including Clarion University Foundation, Inc., in
your estate plans.
Remembering Clarion in your will builds our long-term financial strength,
and it’s the easiest major gift you can make. Why?
Richard and Nancy (Coax) Malacarne
Both Clarion University Alumni Class of 1963
It’s Revocable
If your plans or circumstances change, you can easily revise the bequest.
It’s Simple
You can set up your gift with a single paragraph in your will, or a simple
one-page amendment (a “codicil”).
John Mumford ’73, ’76
Director of Planned Giving
814-393-1926
jmumford@cuf-inc.org
It’s Flexible
You can leave us a specific asset, or a share in your estate’s net remainder.
Your bequest can support a specific program or whatever needs are most
relevant when your gift is received.
To learn more about making Clarion University part of your heritage
by naming Clarion University Foundation, Inc., in your estate plans,
visit www.clarion.plannedgiving.org.
clarion
SPRING 2 0 16
Volume 3
Number 1
departments
features
4 Clarion Digest
Clarion gains 400 new alumni at winter
commencement; ROTC commissions three new
officers; Cornell West goes ‘Inside Politics’ with
students; Clarion SBDC receives accreditation.
12
The Shadow
Knows
Katie Donald (’08), executive
director of Punxsutawney
Groundhog Club, and Dan
“Moonshine” McGinley (’02),
part of the club’s Inner Circle,
have the inside info on Phil.
10 Alumni Gatherings
Golden Eagles alumni flocked to sunny Florida in
March.
18
The
Clarion
Project
Grad student Megan
Foster returns the
love to her alma
mater with a Clarion
take on the Facebook
page Humans of New
York.
24
32 Sports Roundup
Brock Zacherl makes his
mark on the mat after
red shirt year.
40 Alumni News &
Class Notes
48 Courageous
Endeavors
Junior Nathan Mathewson has a rare syndrome
that affects multiple organ systems, but he
graciously navigates the challenges in pursuit of
his degree and his dreams.
On the Edge
Dave Fusilli (’04) first sat in a kayak at age 7 in the Clarion
University pool. Now an alumnus, he makes his living kayaking
some of the most challenging runs in the world.
On the Cover
Dave Fusilli (’04)
navigates Green
River, N.C.
Clarion university
magazine
1
CLARION
UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE
President: Dr. Karen Whitney
Executive editor: Tina Horner
Co-editors: Sean Fagan (sports); Amy Thompson
Wozniak (’02, M.S. ’06); David Love (’86, ’87)
Design: Brenda Stahlman
Contributors: Michelle Port, Sammi Beichner
Photographers: Adam Reynolds (’15), George Powers
(’81), Jason Strohm (’01, MFA ’05), Brett Whitling
Address comments and questions to:
Clarion University Magazine
Center for Advancement
Clarion University of Pennsylvania
840 Wood St., Clarion, PA 16214
Email: alumni@clarion.edu
Visit Clarion University on the Web
at www.clarion.edu
Clarion University Magazine is published by the
Division for University Advancement for alumni,
families of current students and friends of Clarion
University. Alumni information is also located at
www.clarion.edu/alumni.
It is the policy of Clarion University of Pennsylvania
that there shall be equal opportunity in all of its
educational programs, services, and benefits, and
there shall be no discrimination with regard to a
student’s or prospective student’s race, color, religion,
sex, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation/
affection, gender identity, veteran status, or other
classifications that are protected under Title IX of
the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of
the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with
Disabilities Act of 1990, and other pertinent state
and federal laws and regulations. Direct inquiries to
the Director of Social Equity, Clarion University of
Pennsylvania, Second Floor Carrier Administration
Building 16214-1232. Email asalsgiver@clarion.
edu or phone 814-393-2109. Inquiries may also be
directed to the Director of the Office for Civil Rights,
Department of Education, 330 Independence Avenue,
SW, Washington, DC 20201.
Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education
Board of Governors
Chair: Guido M. Pichini
Vice Chair: Marie Conley
Vice Chair: David M. Maser
Sen. Richard Alloway II
Rep. Matthew E. Baker
Ronald G. Henry
Jane M. Earll
Christopher H. Franklin
Sarah Galbally
Rep. Michael K. Hanna
Jonathan B. Mack
Daniel P. Meuser
Pedro A. Rivera, secretary of education
Sen. Judy Schwank
Robert S. Taylor
Aaron A. Walton
Harold C. Shields
Gov. Tom Wolf
Council of Trustees
Chair: James L. Kifer (’83)
Vice Chair: J.D. Dunbar (’77, M.S. ’79)
Secretary: Milissa Bauer (’84)
Dr. Syed R. Ali-Zaidi
Susanne A. Burns
The Honorable R. Lee James
The Honorable Donna Oberlander (’91)
Randy Seitz (’09)
Howard H. Shreckengost (’83)
Jeffrey J. Szumigale (’82)
Brendan Shepherd, student trustee
Alumni Association Board of Directors
President: Deborah Eckelberger (’07)
President-Elect: Jeffrey Douthett (’79)
Secretary: Jean Mills (’59, ’74)
Treasurer: David Reed (’09)
David Bailey (’65)
Floyd Barger (’58)
Daniel Bartoli (’81)
Angela Brown (’80)
Jonathan Catanzarita (’11)
Elisabeth Fulmer (’64, ’80, ’97)
Lee Grosch (’62)
Sandra Jarecki (’69)
Terri (Tiki) Kahle (’87)
Nancy Lendyak (’75)
Ronald Lucas (’82)
Chris Myers (’12)
Virginia Vasko (‘88)
Daniel Zangrilli (‘07)
Glenn Zari (’97)
Morgan Woodin
Eagle Ambassadors president
Karen Whitney, ex-officio
President of Clarion University
Laura King (’09), ex-officio
Executive Director of Clarion University
Alumni Association
2
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Wilk and Nair come
tumbling down
With the opening of the new Suites
on Main, Nair and Wilkinson halls are
being demolished. Both buildings,
completed in 1971, aged out and were
no longer sustainable. The space will
be used for parking. Bricks from the
buildings will be available during
Alumni Weekend.
www.clarion.edu/alumni weekend
letter from the president
Dear Clarion University family,
Another academic year is drawing to a close, and it’s been an exciting time at Clarion University. When
this year’s graduates arrived as freshmen just four years ago, many of them lived in the traditional
residence halls of Nair and Wilkinson halls. When they applied for admission, inquired about financial
aid, worked with a mentor or visited the health center, the paths to those offices led to various buildings
around campus.
With the renovation of Becht Hall completed last summer, current and incoming students know that
most of what they need is in one convenient, central location. With the completion of the new Suites
on Main, our student housing has been completely updated and represents the best of college student
housing. In fact, this newest community also effectively extends the downtown Clarion experience with
the relocation of the book store and Starbucks and the addition of The Den by Denny’s and a movie
theater.
Clarion University is deeply committed to the community and to a vibrant and engaging Clarion Main
Street, benefiting both the town and the university.
But don’t take my word for it. I invite you to see for yourselves, and there’s no better time than Alumni
Weekend, June 3-5. Our Alumni Association has tons of fun planned. Come, see and experience how
your university is growing!
Fly Eagles Fly!
Karen M. Whitney
President, Clarion University
Clarion university
magazine
3
Campus news I clarion digest
spotlight on:
BS Criminal
Justice
Administration
Why it’s hot
Less than one-third of Pennsylvania’s
18,000 corrections officers have
bachelor’s degrees. Leadership
positions are typically held by baby
boomers nearing retirement age,
which creates a workforce void.
Offering a degree completion
program helps to ease that void.
What it’s got
Students pursuing this program
must have an associate degree in
criminal justice or have earned 60
college credits. Clarion’s program
is unique because it provides online
degree completion in criminal justice
administration. Career opportunities
include correctional officers and
jailers, first-line correctional
supervisors, police and sheriff’s
officers, investigators, detectives
and gaming officers.
Skylar Billingsley, who graduated with a
Bachelor of Science in Education degree,
celebrates outside of Gemmell with a
family member.
Winter
commencement
President Karen Whitney conferred 123 master’s degrees, 259 bachelor’s
degrees and 34 associate degrees at Dec. 12 winter commencement in
Tippin Gym. Charles P. Leach Jr., a key policy team member and participant
during the foundation’s greatest period of growth and organizational
development, addressed graduates and received an honorary Doctor of
Public Service degree.
Clarion ROTC
commissions three
officers
What’s next
After one year of offering
the program, more than
30 students are enrolled.
Marc Bush is commissioned as
an officer in the U.S. Army.
4
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Clarion University and the U.S. Army
proudly conferred degrees and
commissioned three officers at its
December 2015 commencement
ceremonies: Marc Daniel Bush of
Butler, Christopher James Flaugher
of Clarion, and Alexander James
Pucilowski of Moosic. The ROTC
program was developed by the U.S.
Army Cadet Command, designed
to teach students leadership and
management skills. ROTC is intended
to increase self-confidence, selfdiscipline, physical stamina, poise
and other qualities essential to the
development of a leader of character.
Campus News I clarion digest
Benedict Oddi exhibition in Carlson
The work of Benedict Oddi is featured in
the University Art Gallery. Oddi was an
adjunct professor at Clarion University in
fall 2014 and is currently teaching at IUP. He
earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in
painting and his teaching certification from
Edinboro University. He completed
his Master of Fine Arts degree in
painting at IUP.
In 2010 and 2012, Oddi was one of
100 artists invited internationally to
the EMMA International Collaboration
in Big River, Saskatchewan, Canada.
In 2009 he was presented the Best
New Artist Award by Celebrate
Life/Celebrate Art, Persad Center
Auction, Carnegie Museum of Art,
Pittsburgh.
summer
theatre 2016
Clarion University has scheduled its
2016 Summer Musical Theatre Festival
performances.
“Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor
Dreamcoat” will be performed at 7:30 p.m.
June 23-25 and June 29 to July 2, and at
2 p.m. June 26.
“You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” will
take the stage at 7:30 p.m. July 28-30 and
Aug. 3-6, and at 2 p.m. July 31.
All performances will be in Marwick-Boyd
Little Theatre. For tickets call 814-393-ARTS or
visit clarionuniversitytickets.com.
Clarion university
magazine
5
Campus news I clarion digest
MLK
Community
Breakfast
Student Jerrell
Blaine shares
ideas with West.
Cornel West goes ‘Inside Politics’
As part of the Mary L. Seifert Cultural Series, established to provide the campus
and community with cultural, learning-inspired discussion, Dr. Cornel West visited
Clarion Feb. 4. A public intellectual and groundbreaking author, he participated in a
panel discussion, “Black Lives Matter,” with university students. He also presented
a lecture, “Inside Politics.” The author of more than 20 books, he has composed
award-winning spoken word albums, and is dedicated to keeping the message of
Martin Luther King Jr. alive by bearing witness to love and justice.
Dédé honored
for first-year
student advocacy
Rev. Lora A. Adams-King,
superintendent of Farrell area School
District and pastor of the Franklin
New Life Family Worship Center, was
the keynote speaker at the Jan. 18
Martin Luther King Jr. Community
Breakfast. Held at the American
Legion on Main Street, Clarion, the
theme of the breakfast was “The
King Legacy: And Justice for All.” It
was open to the community.
6
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Brenda Dédé, Ph.D., associate vice-president of
academic affairs at Clarion University, was awarded the
2016 Outstanding First-Year Student Advocate Award
Feb. 20. Presented by the University of South Carolina’s
National Resource Center for the First-Year Experience
and Students in Transition, she is one of 10 being
recognized.
Dédé is responsible for students from recruitment to
graduation. While she focuses on freshmen, she helps at
all points of the spectrum by assisting students with social, financial and academic
issues. Dédé is credited with starting and maintaining several campus programs,
such as Movin’ On Week.
Instituted in 2013, Movin’ On’s goal is to register first-year students who failed
to do so during the traditional registration period. Movin’ On also includes a week
of face-to-face encounters with university faculty and staff, designed to introduce
students to Clarion college life.
From the fall of 2013 to the spring of 2014, Movin’ On is credited with raising
the freshmen retention rate from 88 percent to 91 percent. All students are now
included in its events.
PASSHE News I clarion digest
Small Business Development
Center accreditation
one of
Centers
1,500+
individuals
More than
$11,000,000
in financing
7,500
hours
10
Counties
461
clients
1
on
1
consulting
18
training to
Past Year’s numbers
Clarion University Small Business Development Center, one of 18
centers in Pennsylvania, received accreditation by the National Association of Small
Business Development Centers. The SBDC provides entrepreneurs and existing
small businesses in Armstrong, Cameron, Clarion, Clearfield, Elk, Forest, Jefferson,
McKean, Potter and Venango counties with consultation, information and education
to help businesses start, grow and prosper. During the past year, the Clarion
University SBDC provided 7,500 hours of one-on-one consulting to 461 clients,
assisted clients with securing financing for projects totaling more than $11,000,000
and provided entrepreneurial training to more than 1,500 individuals.
Infinite
opportunities
The second season of “Infinite
Opportunities,” a half-hour, public
affairs program on PCN featuring
Pennsylvania’s State System of
Higher Education universities, is
currently being televised.
In its inaugural season, the
program introduced viewers to the
14 State System universities and the
broad array of academic programs
they offer. The new season will
delve even deeper into the many
opportunities Pennsylvania’s public
universities provide.
“In the second season, we will go
more in depth, providing viewers
the opportunity every week to learn
even more about the programs and
services the universities offer, not just
to our more than 100,000 students,
but to all of the residents of the
commonwealth,” said State System
Chancellor Frank T. Brogan, who
regularly serves as the program’s
moderator.
Topics to be covered during the
second season will include athletics,
online learning, service learning,
liberal arts, internships, health and
wellness, diversity, alumni success,
economic impact, supporting higher
education and succeeding in college.
The season will conclude with 14
university-specific episodes.
For the complete season two
schedule, or to view episodes from
season one, go to www.passhe.edu/
infiniteopportunities.
Clarion university
magazine
7
Student news I clarion digest
Scholar Athletes
(From left) Jordan Bekelja,
Jen Straw and Shelby
Coughenour, members of
the Carlson Cup-winning
women’s basketball team,
stand with Jana Ashley
and Jermaine Cooper, head
coach and assistant coach,
respectively. The Carlson Cup
goes to the team with the
most-improved GPA.
A record-setting 171 student-athletes
– making up 49 percent of all Clarion
student-athletes – were recognized
for their academic efforts at the 26th
Annual Bob Carlson Scholar-Athlete
Luncheon Feb. 6. The event was held
in Gemmell multi-purpose room and
featured representatives from every
Golden Eagle athletics program, with
faculty athletics representative Rich
Lane, Ph.D., introducing the studentathletes.
“Nothing makes me prouder than
seeing the success our teams have
in the classroom as well as in their
competitions,” said Clarion athletic
director Dave Katis. He was followed by
university president Dr. Karen Whitney,
who was also exuberant in her praise
for the athletics programs.
“I love this athletics program
because of the emphasis put on
academic success and the way those
successes continue to grow,” Whitney
said.
To be named a scholar-athlete,
student-athletes must achieve a
cumulative grade point average of
8
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
3.2 or higher, have two consecutive
semesters of a 3.2 GPA or higher in
the previous spring and fall semesters,
or be a freshman or new transfer who
achieved a 3.2 GPA or higher in the fall
2015 term.
This year, 171 student-athletes met
that criteria, making up nearly half
of all Clarion athletes in the last year.
Both the total (171 student-athletes)
and percentage (49 percent) top the
previous records of 166 and 47 percent,
respectively, set at the 2014 luncheon.
In addition to the scholar-athlete
recognitions, the Clarion women’s
basketball team was awarded the
2016 Carlson Cup, given annually to
the team that displays the biggest
overall increase in GPA during the past
calendar year. The award is named
after Bob Carlson, who started the
scholar athlete luncheon in 1991 and
was Clarion’s athletic director from
1990 to 2005. On hand to receive the
award was head coach Jana Ashley and
women’s basketball scholar-athletes
Jordan Bekelja, Jen Straw and Shelby
Coughenour.
In addition to the Carlson Cup,
two other awards were handed out
at the luncheon. Bruce Kendra was
presented with the Extra Effort
Award, recognizing the hard work
done by the facilities management
staff at Tippin Gymnasium and
elsewhere on campus.
Ken Staub was also recognized
as the Faculty of the Year award
winner and was presented a
plaque by Student-Athlete
Advisory Committee president
Alissa Spencer, a member of the
women’s soccer team.
171
student
athletes
49%
of athletes
3.2
or higher
GPA
Student News I clarion digest
Seybold
Academic
honors
In December three Clarion studentathletes were awarded the highest
academic honor in collegiate athletics,
when football’s Matt Koerper and
volleyball’s Kaley Pittsley and Morgan
Seybold were named College Sports
Information Directors of America
Academic All-Americans. To be eligible
for this honor, a student-athlete must
be a sophomore or above academically,
maintain a 3.30 GPA or better, and have
spent at least one year at their current
institution. That list of nominees is then
whittled down into All-District teams
and another vote is held, with only the
best of the best in the country earning
Academic All-American honors.
A rehabilitative science major,
Seybold concluded a stellar four-year
career at libero for the Golden Eagles
with 772 digs and an average of 5.76
digs per set. Her 2,471 career digs make
her one of just four players in program
history to top 2,000 career digs and
ranks third in the program annals.
Pittsley
Student attends
Harrisburg
internship
Koerper
Koerper is an accounting major
carrying a cumulative 3.75 GPA and was
dominant on the defensive line in 2015.
He tied for the team-high with eight
sacks and totaled 45 tackles, a teambest 13 of which went for lost yardage.
Koerper had a hand in three turnovers
on the year as well, recovering two
fumbles and forcing another. In his
career Koerper has played in 32 games,
made 94 tackles, 21 tackles for loss and
10 sacks.
Pittsley led the PSAC in total assists
(1,452) and assists per set (10.52) in 2015
and added 10 assist-dig double-doubles
on the year. The junior marketing/
management major set Clarion to the
best marks in the PSAC in kills (13.80)
and assists (13.04) per set in conference
matches, and the Golden Eagles ranked
10th in the nation in total assists and 13th
in total kills.
In addition to their Academic AllAmerican Honors, the duo of Seybold
and Pittsley were honored as members
of the PSAC Fall Top 10. Initiated in the
1997-98 academic year, the Top 10 Award
is given to five males and five females
in each athletic season: fall, winter and
spring. It is chosen by the league’s sports
information directors and are designed
to recognize student-athletes who excel
in both the classroom and in athletic
competition.
Benjamin L. Edney of Fredonia
worked for the state Department
of Health in the Office of
Legislative Affairs as part of a
15-week internship sponsored
by Pennsylvania’s State System
of Higher Education. Edney is a
junior sociology major, and is one
of 16 students participating in The
Harrisburg Internship Semester
program. THIS provides students
with the opportunity to work in all
areas of state government while
earning a full semester’s worth of
credits.
Clarion university
magazine
9
Florida
alumni tour
Sunshine and balmy weather greeted
alumni gathering in Florida for the
Florida Alumni Tour. Clockwise from
top: the notorious Pirate Parrot was
in attendance at the Pirates training
camp game; Jim Hoofangle (’73) (left)
and Mart Grichor (’79) hold name
badges from the “old days” as proof of
their Clarion alumni status; director
of alumni relations Laura King (left) sits
with Capt. John DiTommasso (’78) and
President Karen Whitney on the water
of Citrus Hill, Fla.; a view from
the stands; alumni gather for a day
of sun; alumni gather in the shade.
At center: Clarion alumni hold a banner
at the Pirates training camp game
in Bradenton, Fla.
10
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Clarion university
magazine
11
The
shadow
knows
Punxsutawney Phil was up early to predict
whether we can expect six more weeks of
winter, and two Clarion University alumni
were close to the prognosticating action.
Katie Donald (’08) is executive director
of the Punxsutawney Groundhog club,
and Dan “Moonshine” McGinley (’02) is
part of the club’s Inner Circle.
According to the official Groundhog
Day website, the Inner Circle is “a group
of local dignitaries responsible for
carrying on the tradition of Groundhog
Day. They’re the ones who are not only
responsible for planning the events every
year, but they’re also responsible for the
feeding and care of Phil himself!”
As part of Phil’s entourage, Donald and
McGinley have insider information on Phil
and the festivities that surround Gobbler’s
Knob.
12
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
First, Phil has the difficult task of seeing
or not seeing his shadow.
Seeing his shadow means there will be
six more weeks of winter.
Not seeing his shadow means spring
will come early. This year, Phil did not
see his shadow much to the delight of
thousands of people at Gobbler’s Knob
and around the world.
So far, history has been on the side of
winter, with Phil seeing his shadow 102
times in the past 130 years. There are
another 17 times when he didn’t see his
shadow, and the other times are lost from
the record books.
Not everyone is a fan of the groundhog’s
results, which the Inner Circle claims are
100 percent accurate. It depends on if
you’re a fan of one season over the other.
McGinley said Phil has had “no threats
of violence,” but there was talk of a lawsuit
once. However, it was quickly quashed.
Donald said Phil feels very safe. Phil’s
burrow, where he lives with his wife,
Phyllis, is in Punxsutawney Memorial
Library, next door to Punxsutawney Police
station. The groundhog couple doesn’t
have children, due to Phil’s demanding
work schedule.
Dan “Moonshine” McGinley,
Katie Donald and Phil
Clarion university
magazine
13
“It’s so much more than a one-day-ayear holiday, and we’re happy to host,”
McGinley said.
Living in the library has its perks for
both Phil and those who come to see him.
People enjoy reading to him, and Phil likes
knowing that he boosts library attendance.
With his active schedule and his
burrow’s lighting and temperature settings,
Phil doesn’t fully hibernate like most other
groundhogs, Donald said. He doesn’t eat as
much and is sleepier during winter.
So what does the premiere
prognosticator eat? His favorite meal is
honey and oat granola, and he is a big fan
of kale. He also receives alfalfa as part of a
balanced groundhog diet, she said.
In order to keep up appearances, Phil
has a dentist, legal team and veterinarian.
“He has to have a physical once a year,”
Donald said.
Food preferences are about as close
to a diva attitude as Phil ever exhibits.
Recipe
While other groundhogs
only live three to six years
in the wild, Phil is not
embarrassed by his age or how
he has come to live so long.
Well, that and the fact that he doesn’t
recognize other animal prognosticators
– or TV weather personalities, for that
matter.
There are many other weather
forecasters, but there’s only one
Punxsutawney Phil, who has had the job
for the past 130 years. The first official
Groundhog Day was Feb. 2, 1887, but
the tradition was started in 1886 when
a group of Punxsutawney residents
marked Candlemas Day by searching for
a groundhog.
Candelmas Day is celebrated Feb. 2,
and, as the tradition goes, if any animal
came out from underground hibernation
and the sun was out, there would be six
more weeks of winter. A local newspaper
editor named the group Punxsutawney
Groundhog Club, after the group’s first
trek to find Phil.
“He looks great for 130,” Donald said.
While other groundhogs only live
three to six years in the wild, Phil is not
embarrassed by his age or how he has
come to live so long. Phil enjoys drinking
the Elixir of Life every summer, which
sustains him for another seven years,
McGinley said.
It’s the only time Phil hits the bottle,
which is surprising since some of the
questions that a groundhog is asked
can become tedious, like: How much
wood would a woodchuck chuck, if a
Groundhog Cookies
2 cups sifted flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 cup soft butter
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup molasses
1 egg yolk
1 egg, slightly beaten
Currants or raisins
Sift together first seven ingredients. Set aside. Cream
butter and sugar until fluffy. Blend in molasses and
yolk. Stir in flour mixture and mix well. Form into a ball.
Wrap in plastic wrap. Chill overnight, several nights or
freeze.
Place small amounts of dough on a sheet of plastic
wrap, and cover with plastic wrap. Roll 1/8 inch thick.
Cut out cookies with lightly floured cutter.
Place cookies on greased baking sheet. Brush with
slightly beaten egg. Decorate with currants or raisin
eyes. Repeat until all dough is used.
Bake 8 to 10 minutes in a preheated 350-degree oven.
Cool slightly before removing from cookie sheet.
Makes 72 or more medium-sized groundhogs.
14
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Groundhog Days Past
Clarion university
magazine
15
“Although he doesn’t sport a
top hat and tuxedo like those
who are in the Inner Circle, he’s
comfortable in his own fur.”
woodchuck could chuck wood?
Donald insists Phil doesn’t get bored
with these questions since he only speaks
groundhog-ese, but his handlers might
be a little less patient. The answer is 700
pounds, she said, in case anyone was
wondering.
Even with mundane questions, Phil
loves his job.
“He enjoys meeting new people all the
time,” Donald said.
Although he doesn’t sport a top hat
and tuxedo like those who are in the Inner
Circle, he’s comfortable in his own fur,
16
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
McGinley said.
McGinley was nominated to the
Inner Circle, members of which have
traditionally been men, after working
with the Groundhog Day stage show.
He earned his nickname, “Moonshine,”
because he works the stage show under
the moonshine.
“Women have been nominated (to the
Inner Circle), and I don’t think it will be
long before a woman breaks that mold
and gets into the club,” McGinley said.
Donald said as a local, she would
always stay for the celebration when she
was growing up, and has never grown
tired of town’s most famous day and
celebrity.
As executive director of the club, she
is close to the Inner Circle. She moved
out of the area for a couple of years, but
when she came back, she was happy
to land the job as executive director for
the Groundhog Club, which is a 501c3
organization.
Unlike Donald, McGinley isn’t originally
from Punxsutawney, but his wife is. He
met her through her cousin, who was
McGinley’s roommate at Clarion.
Fun Facts
The average groundhog is 20 inches long and normally weighs
from 12 to 15 pounds. Punxsutawney Phil weighs about 20
pounds and is 22 inches long. Groundhogs are covered with
coarse grayish hairs (fur), tipped
with brown or sometimes dull
red. They have short ears, a
short tail, short legs, and are
surprisingly quick. Their jaws
are exceptionally strong.
Old
English
song
A groundhog’s diet consists of lots of greens,
fruits and vegetables and very little water.
Most of their liquids come from dewy leaves.
A groundhog can whistle when
it is alarmed. Groundhogs also
whistle in the spring when they
begin courting.
Insects do not bother groundhogs, and germs
pretty much leave them alone. They are resistant
to the plagues that periodically wipe out large
numbers of wild animals. One reason for this is
their cleanliness.
Groundhogs are one of the few animals that really
hibernate. Hibernation is not just a deep sleep. It is
actually a deep coma, where the body temperature drops
to a few degrees above freezing, the heart barely beats,
the blood scarcely flows, and breathing nearly stops.
Young groundhogs are usually
born in mid-April or May, and by
July they are able to go out on
their own. The size of the litter is
four to nine. A baby groundhog is
called a kit or a cub.
If Candlemas be
fair and bright,
Come, winter, have
another flight.
If Candlemas
brings cold
and rain,
Go, winter, and
come not again.
Clarion university
magazine
17
The
ClarionProject
# TheClarionProject is a thank you to everyone who makes Clarion University possible.
Prompt: What do you love most about Clarion University and why? Try to have your response
reach at least two paragraphs. I want to hear your story, because everyone has one!
To read stories or share your own, visit Let’s Try This Angle – Foster’s Photography page on
Facebook, or email Foster at lttafostersphotography@gmail.com.
18
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Hi there! My name is Megan Foster, and
I’m the photographer behind the camera.
For my last semester at Clarion
University, I want to do something that
could change the school for the better.
I want to be able to bring the school
closer together.
On Facebook, there is a page called
Humans of New York. There, Brandon,
the HONY photographer, goes around
the city (and the world, really) and
takes the picture of its citizens. He then
asks about them and posts their photo
and life story to the page.
The Clarion Project is similar.
However, instead of getting life stories, I
want to know why the people that make
up Clarion University chose this school. I
also want to know what they love most
about it. I want this to be about them
and their relationship with the school.
Whether it be a student, professor or
staff member, I want their story.
Anyway, I guess I should answer
my own questions. I chose Clarion
University because it offered a course
in library science, a field in which I had
always been interested. I also chose
it because of what I heard about the
faculty and professors. At Clarion, I am
not a number, but a person with a name.
Those who work behind the scenes and
those who teach us know us by name.
They genuinely care about us. This is
also what I love most about this campus.
The educators that are employed here
are some of the most caring, kindhearted, individuals I have ever met.
Over the last six years here at the
home of the Golden Eagles, I have seen
a lot – some good, some bad – but
everything made the college just that
much more amazing. It’ll be bittersweet
when I walk across that stage and
receive my master’s hood. I will miss the
campus. I will miss my friends. But most
of all, I will miss the community that
has been built – the bond that is seen
between those who make up Clarion
University.
I will miss that the most.
Megan Foster (’14)
Clarion university
magazine
19
education faculty joy degree events
professors small town
fortunate students
pride
home dedication
internship
accredited individuals
minor
impactful
Clarion
success
connections
coaches
legacy
lifetime campus
mentoring happy
focus
opportunity
graduation
amazing organizations
friendships staff
sciences Cook Forest
professional outdoors
major imagine
community
fulfill educators memories athletes
undergraduate
world encourage experience
caring
involved
thanks
job dreams teach athletic
University
proud
information
careers
Golden Eagles support
college
goals business
senior
kind-hearted changes
family canoeing learn
team heart win
love accomplishment
Autumn Leaf Festival
In May, I will be reaching 32 years of working for the university. The one
thing that I love most about Clarion is the kids. I love the kids because they
keep me young. They are very polite, calling me ‘Grandma’ or by my name.
‘Hi Lois!’ ‘Hey Lois, how are you!’ they say. These students are the reason I
get up to come to work, and I look forward to them. In my eyes, all these
kids are my kids. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Working at Clarion keeps me young as well, but the breaks make
me kind of lazy. That happens with all of us, though. I look forward to
coming back each semester. I also love all the changes the university has
made, from adding The Den to moving Starbucks. These have helped the
university for the better!”
Lois McLean
32-year veteran of Clarion University
What I liked most about Clarion University were the friends I made and still
have, the outdoorsy campus and my education. I graduated in 1979 with a
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, which I believe I use every day in some way.
I remember Forest Manor, sled riding down the hill by Campbell Hall, and
canoeing at Cook Forest. I still go back every year for Autumn Leaf to meet
my friends – lots of good memories and still making more.
Now, both of my children are attending Clarion, so the legacy lives on! I was
thrilled when my children expressed an interest in attending Clarion. I think
because I had such a great overall experience there, I wanted that for them,
too. My daughter has gone on to obtain her master’s degree, also at Clarion,
and my son is looking to do his internship this summer and may be graduating
early! Both should be able to obtain good jobs after graduation!”
Lorie Foster (’79)
Megan’s mom
20
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Dr. Jeff Eicher
Professor of finance
“I like a lot of things about Clarion University, including the small town atmosphere
and the campus. But, what I like most are the students and the faculty/staff that I work
with. I enjoy the opportunity to get to know my students one-on-one and to help
them as they move through their undergraduate careers and out into their professional
careers. It is gratifying to see them learn and grow, and, hopefully, become successful.
The students work hard and appreciate the efforts that faculty extend on their behalf
and that, of course, is particularly meaningful to a teacher.
I am also fortunate to work with and for some exceptionally gifted and caring
individuals. The faculty and staff of the College of Business and Information Sciences are
top flight, and their dedication to their disciplines and their students is always wonderful
to see and to be a part of. I believe that their hearts are in the right place in that their
primary focus and concern is the education and welfare of their students. Our current
dean is a difference maker, and I enjoy working with him immensely. I consider myself
fortunate to be part of the Clarion family.”
The reason I chose Clarion University was for the College of Business AACSB
accredited program. I knew in high school I wanted to go into some form of business,
but was undecided on which route to take. After my first semester I fell in love with
Clarion and the university as a whole. Not only did I gain lifelong friendships, I’ve
encountered nothing but caring and education-driven professors who care about
each student’s success.
Now, being a senior I can truly appreciate the education I have gained here. In four
years I am proudly graduating with two majors and a minor along with a lifetime of
memories. Looking back on my last four years here brings up so many emotions.
Memories such as A.L.F, being a CU cheerleader, or even winning the Miss Clarion
University pageant are cherished so dearly to me. The memories students make
here last a lifetime. I could go on and on about my love for this campus and would
encourage anyone to experience what Clarion University has to offer.
Jesse Snyder (’14)
Lauren Bovard
Senior
“When I think about my time at Clarion, I think about all of the mentors who
challenged and supported me, the professors who pushed me to do better and
friends that I’ll have for the rest of my life. I also think of the people whom I never
thanked, the apologies I have yet to give, or letting some people know how much
they mean to me.
Being a first generation college student, every experience at Clarion was new
for me and my family. Coupled with living on the other side of the state, attending
Clarion could have easily become problematic. Instead, Clarion became my home.
I spent every summer on campus working odd jobs, became involved in as many
organizations as possible, and shared my experience with everyone I knew.
Flash forward to now. I am finishing up my master’s degree and working
full-time at Ohio University, mentoring first-generation college students. Clarion
equipped me to be the best professional I can be and enabled me to mentor these
students so that they can find joy and success.
Clarion university
magazine
21
Why Clarion University?
Simple answer is that I
was actually supposed to
go to RMU but funds fell
through and Clarion was
the answer. Clarion is so
much more than a financial
reason. Clarion helped
shape me and save my life.
When I came to Clarion I
was a bit lonely, but I found
friendship and support. I
found a home away from
home. I joined Allies and
found out what true love
and pride are. Clarion was
my saving grace.
Shelby Ehrin (’14)
What I like most about Clarion University
is the sense of family that a small university
provides. The connections that are able to be
made with the students is amazing.
When I attend athletic events, I don’t
show up to just to see if the Golden Eagles
are going to win. I am there to support the
student-athletes as individuals and as a team.
These young women and men bring so much
life to campus. I am there to support the
coaches, people I am proud to call friends. It
is truly a Golden Eagle Family.
Chad Thomas
Director of auxiliary
operations
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Morgan
Anthony
Woodin
“I love Clarion because it’s been such an impactful
piece of my puzzle. I went from my small hometown to
a new small town expecting to have the same feelings,
but it’s been so much better than expected.
Clarion has, without a doubt, become my home, and
I’ve gained a second family in the friends that I’ve
become close to. Without Clarion, I wouldn’t be the
person I’ve developed into today.”
“What I like most about Clarion
University are the students. I grew up in
a
part of Missouri that is just like western
Pennsylvania in many ways. It’s primarily
rural and quite poor, and the people who
lived there either farmed or provided
some kind of service work for the
agricultural industry, or they commuted
hours every day to Kansas City to
labor in factories or in the construction
industry.
Opportunities for higher education were rare, and seldom did anyone
leave the area to find greater fortune elsewhere. I loved my life in
Missouri, but I recognized when I was quite young that if I stayed there, I
would remain poor and uneducated and would never know how great my
life could actually be.
So, when I teach or talk to the students at Clarion University, I feel like
I am talking to everyone I have ever known or cared about who wanted,
just like me, to find a better life. They want to learn about the world,
to succeed financially, to put themselves in a better position to help
others, and to find a job that they love and which provides them with a
permanent sense of pride and accomplishment.
I know what it is like to want all of this and to do all of this, and I know
that I can help them to accomplish their goals. I like Clarion University,
then, because it provides me an opportunity to genuinely help young
people to fulfill their own dreams and to have happier lives. I cannot
imagine a better vocation.”
Dr. Jamie Phillips
Professor of philosophy
Ask Megan Foster why she loves Clarion University, and her eyes
fill. She smiles and apologizes as she fans her face, attempting to
dry the tears.
The bubbly grad student from New Brighton takes a deep
breath.
“My first week here, as a freshman who was terrified of being
90 minutes away from home, I was so homesick. I have ADD, and
I worked with Disability Services. They helped me tremendously,
as did Counseling Services,” she said. She’s been reaching for the
stars ever since.
Foster graduated magna cum laude with her bachelor’s degree
in 2014 and will graduate in May with her Master of Science in
Library Science. She is a black belt in shokotan (a form of karate),
writes role play fiction and is a self-described “huge gamer.” She
has her own photography business, and she works at Best Buy,
where her goal is to brighten the day of everyone she encounters.
For Foster, finishing her master’s degree is “the cherry on top.”
She plans to combine what she’s learned in the classroom with
skills acquired through campus jobs and involvement with Campus
Fest and Social Media Roundtable, as well as with research
experience and interning at Clarion County Historical Society.
To thank Clarion, she created The Clarion Project, photographing
and collecting stories of the people who comprise the Clarion
University family. The stories are posted on her Let’s Try This Angle
– Foster’s Photography page on Facebook.
Clarion university
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23
Fusilli tackles a waterfall
in Tokette Falls, Ore.
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On The
Edge
Ask Dave Fusilli what he’s been doing
since graduating in 2004, and he’ll tell
you he’s been floating around the world.
Sounds leisurely, right?
More accurately, Fusilli has been floating
from one adrenaline rush to the next.
Fusilli hikes to put in at
Upper Cherry Creek, near
Yosemite, Calif.
Clarion university
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25
A
fter graduating from ClarionLimestone High School, Fusilli wanted
nothing more than to move to
Colorado and be a snowboard bum.
His mom wouldn’t hear of it, though,
and she pushed her son to further his
education.
Fusilli enrolled at Clarion. He had
been active in high school sports, but
he wasn’t playing sports in college.
Realizing he needed an outlet, Fusilli
went back to kayaking, the sport in
which his family had always been
active.
The Fusilli family regularly
attended the Cheat River Festival
along the banks of the Cheat River in
Albright, W.Va.
“It’s one of the only free-flowing
rivers in the east. There’s a beautiful
canyon; it’s a really cool place,” Fusilli
said. “One morning we jumped in the
boat and paddled our kayaks back. I
remember flipping and rolling. I did
that the whole way down the river. I
had a blast.”
He was 19 at the time, and he was
addicted.
“Basically from that day on, I was
just trying to get in water as much as
possible,” Fusilli said. “I just wanted to
kayak, period. I wanted to be on the
water every day.”
At Clarion, Fusilli finished two
bachelor’s degrees, in environmental
science and geology. Two days
after commencement, he moved to
Colorado, intending to make a living
in his kayak.
“I started raft guiding, and my
skills got better and better,” he said.
In 2007, Pyranha, a manufacturer
of specialist whitewater kayaks,
sponsored him.
Fusilli’s first experience
in a kayak was as
a 7-year-old in the
Clarion University pool.
“Pyranha gave me a little cash, a
gas card and a vehicle in which to
travel around and do competitions,”
Fusilli said. He now represents
Pyranha full time. During the United
States’ winter months, he pushes the
limits, competing in places such as
Chile, Ecuador and Austria.
“I was flown to Mexico for a big
competition, where there was a oneof-a-kind, big waterfall. It went from
a 30-footer (drop) into a 60-footer
into a 40-footer. We were judged on
fluidity, style and difficulty of line. It’s
the first time we’d ever done anything
like that in kayaking, period.”
A little more than a year ago, he
moved again, to White Salmon, Wash.
“That’s my home. I’m eight miles
from the put-in of maybe the best
creek in the United States, the Little
White Salmon,” Fusilli said. “The
white water is rated class one to
“ I just wanted to kayak,
period. I wanted to be
on the water every day.”
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class five – class one is like the Upper
Clarion River before it gets dammed.
(The Little White Salmon) is real
steep and aggressive with waterfalls
and big boulders.”
Getting his feet wet
Fusilli’s first experience in a kayak
was as a 7-year-old in the Clarion
University pool.
“My dad taught me. He used a
homemade boat and homemade
skirt. Kayaking gear was of poor
quality then. It’s come a long way,”
Fusilli said. “It’s a very young sport.
Gear – especially whitewater gear – is
evolving.”
“My dad is a pioneer of white
water kayaking,” Fusilli said of David
W. “Big Dave” Fusilli (’79). “There are
definitely folks ahead of him, but not
many.”
The elder Fusilli grew up in
Pittsburgh and spent time at
Ohiopyle, where he saw kayaking for
the first time.
“People had to make their own
kayaks,” he said. “Back when Dad
started, no one could roll.”
As he grew up, the Fusilli family
often could be found navigating local
waterways.
“A lot of it was paddling on Mill
Creek, a tributary to Clarion River.
That’s basically where I learned. Dad
would take us over the hill, two miles
from our house. Going down that first
time, with the brown, muddy water,
was a little intimidating,” he said. “I
remember my brother as an infant, in
canoes, going down the Clarion River.
We’ve always been on the water.”
He recalls one excursion as a
youngster when the creek water was
especially high. “I was crying. My
mom took her sock off and tied the
back of her kayak to the front of mine
and pulled me down the river.”
As Fusilli grew, so did his
proficiency and comfort in the water.
“I remember taking a class at
Slippery Rock (University) when I was
8 or 9 years old, in which I learned
different skills from different people,”
he said. His early years in a kayak
were spent paddling Slippery Rock
Creek, the Youghiogheny River and
the lower Youghiogheny.
Fusilli’s first time on the lower
Yough was when he was 10 years old.
“It seemed massive. The waves
were like, ‘Whoa!’ It was pretty
intimidating,” he said. “My dad
wanted nothing more than for me
to be a kayaker. The gear sucked
– it was pretty cold and not super
comfortable.”
Fusilli and friends kayak
White Salmon River, Wash.
Fusilli goes over the edge
of Spirit Falls on Little
White Salmon River, Wash.
Clarion university
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27
Fusilli at Spirit Falls on
Little White Salmon River,
Wash.
Taking the plunge
“My first waterfall was probably
Wonder Falls in Big Sandy River in
West Virginia. It was a 17- or 18-foot
drop,” Fusilli said. “I didn’t even look
– I knew it was safe. My dad lined me
up at the top. It was pretty calm.”
The feeling afterward? “It was
awesome, like winning the Super
Bowl!”
The drops Fusilli conquers in his
kayak are of increasing challenge. His
biggest drop so far has been a 90foot drop down a vertical waterfall.
“It’s just been a progression. I’ve
built up from the 18-footer.”
Fusilli said he’s had a couple of
close calls, being stuck in hydraulics
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(river features in which water is
cyclical). “My body recirculated a few
times – kind of like being in a washing
machine,” he said.
“Those times are so few. I’ve
had two pretty bad swims out of
thousands and thousands of days
on the river. I’ve been injured a few
times,” he said.
Still, he finds the sport to have
broad appeal in the age demographic.
“Yesterday I paddled a class fourplus run. There were guys out there
who were 70 years old. The overall
impact on your body isn’t much,
Fusilli said. “What’s cool about white
water, as a kid you can do white
water and be safe when you learn the
basic skills.”
“ It was awesome,
like winning the
Super Bowl.”
Rescue
As with any man vs. nature
showdown, there are some dangers.
As an experienced kayaker, Fusilli
had been eyeing Hamma Hamma
Falls on the Olympic Peninsula in
Washington state. He had visited
the waterfall a few years prior to
finally making the run, but he had
a tweaked rib, so he took it easy on
that trip.
“It haunted me – I had three
years of thinking about running the
fall,” he said. He and three friends
finally went back.
“We get there, and the water
level is perfect. That’s important
in taller waterfalls. If there isn’t
enough water, you’ll make a bigger
impact. Water creates aeration and
makes it soft.”
“One kid (Bren) had been
wanting to run waterfalls. He was all
fired up.”
Fusilli reviewed the run with him.
It was a 20-foot waterfall, then a
short pool into a 60-foot waterfall.
The 20-footer was the harder of the
two because it had a curl of water
coming off the right side of it. That
curl would want to set the kayaker
left. Fusilli explained that Bren
would want to fall with the flow,
then take a really late left stroke,
otherwise he’d end up with the bow
putting him in an eddy on the right.
“That’s what I’m nervous about,”
Fusilli cautioned.
Fusilli went first and considered,
once he navigated the 20-foot drop,
continuing on to the 60-footer.
“I had a second thought of
making sure he gets down, so I
paused. I see him come straight
off and get shoved right in the
catcher’s mitt. He’s getting
pushed into a wall. I see all of this
happening. He had come out of the
boat and reaches this perfect hand
hold on the rock.
“I see that, and I’m looking
around. I have very little to stand
on – just a wet, angled rock. I had
a tether tied to my life jacket, so I
clipped it to my kayak, scrambled
onto the rock, then I get the throw
bag out – it’s basically a bag full of
rope.
“He’s still hanging on, and it’s
getting close to a minute that he’d
been there. I yelled, ‘Bren! Rope!’
and I threw it a little upstream to
allow the current to float it down to
him. Sure enough, he grabbed it. I
pulled as hard as I’ve ever pulled,
right across the lip of a 60-foot
waterfall. I was tired as hell, and
he was exhausted. It was almost 10
years of experience happening in
one minute.
“At that point, his boat runs
the 60-footer without him. Bren
is stuck in a pocket, sitting on this
rock, no way to get out. I was trying
to figure out how we’d get out of
there, but I still really wanted to run
this waterfall – I’d been thinking
about it for years. I’m on the lip …
I have to go. I rolled off the lip and
had a great line!”
After the run, Fusilli and the
other two friends hiked back to the
top of the waterfall and threw a
rope down to Bren, who had been
sitting there, cold, for two hours.
“The three of us just extracted
him up 50 feet. It was an insane
day.”
As for Bren – “We went back a
couple of weeks later, and he ran it.”
To watch the rescue unfold, visit http://demshitz.com/kayaker-saved-just-before-swimming-over-a-60-foot-waterfall/
Clarion university
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29
Going pro
Fusilli paddles
Oh Be Joyful
Creek, Crested
Butte, Colo.,
“I had a friend, Bob Petty (’01),
who was going to college at Clarion.
I watched him progress from being
an OK paddler to improving a ton,”
Fusilli said. “That’s how I ended up
raft guiding. I wanted to be on the
water all day, kayaking. After work I‘d
do another run. I could make money
and be on the water every day. That
got my skllls way better.”
Fusilli, at the edge
Metlako Falls, Ore.
After raft guiding on the eastern
side of the United States during
summers in college, Fusilli went to
Colorado, where a friend convinced
him to take part in a freestyle
competition.
“I did that competition the next
year, and I did another one that
summer in Colorado. At the end of
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the summer, Pyranha Kayaks got
ahold of me.”
A local kayak shop that gave Fusilli
discounts on gear was a Pyranha
dealer. When the shop owner heard
that Pyranha was looking for good
freestyler paddler to help grow the
brand, he gave them Fusilli’s name.
“I’ve been to Mexico, Uganda, all
over Canada and all over the United
States,” Fusilli said. “I’ve paddled the
best places on the east coast – in
New York, West Virginia and North
Carolina. Colorado is pretty good.
California, when they have snow, is
incredible. Washington and Oregon
are ridiculous,” Fusilli said. “Anywhere
you have big mountains.”
The good life
Fusilli lives in Washington with his
girlfriend, Gina, and his younger brother,
Rob, whom Fusilli says is “damn good” in a
kayak.
“He paddles with me, runs the stuff I
run,” he said.
What others would view as a challenging
lifestyle is exactly what Fusilli loves about it.
“I don’t have a house or a nice car. I’ve
gone for years without even paying rent,
just wandering around,” he said. “People
like their comforts – having a home base
and set routine – if you’re that way, this is
very difficult for you.”
He wouldn’t want it any other way.
“When you have a certain goal in life
and things you want to do, if you want
to do them badly enough, you’ll do them
whatever way possible. The things I have
are all free – the kayak, gear, anything else
I have. I don’t have unnecessary things. I
don’t have things that make me look rich.
When he needs to slow down and mellow
out, he simplifies even further.
“I just like camping and being outside.
My dad has always loved being outside.
He shared that with us and our mother
strongly,” Fusilli said.
“My goal is always to continue to kayak
and live the way I want to live. I’m outside
almost all the time, I have tons of freedom.
I’m not really tied down. I don’t have to sit
inside at a desk. I don’t have a schedule
unless I make it.
“ When you have
a certain goal in life
and things you want
to do, if you want
to do them badly
enough, you’ll do
them whatever way
possible.”
Demshitz legacy
“What are demshitz up to now?” “Where did
demshitz get off to this time?” – the words
that started it all, by a disgruntled “Big Dave”
Fusilli and friend Jay Seiler and yelling out
from a camp fire, wondering where their kids
had gotten off to, a long day on the river not
enough to tire their rambunctious energy. It
all started with family – Jay and his two boys,
Jared and Graham, and “Big Dave” and his kids
Dave, Carly and Rob. Siblings joined, friends
joined. The river lifestyle was the lifestyle.
As the kids turned into adults, their passion
for pushing the limits of their paddling drew
attention. More and more people wanted to be
a part of that energy. Demshitz was born, and
more friends joined their extended family.
Werner, another of Fusilli’s sponsors, paid
homage to the family and the lifestyle by
creating limited edition Demshitz paddles.
Clarion university
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31
high
aim
The drive from the University of Pennsylvania to Clarion is just a shade over 300
miles and takes somewhere in the neighborhood of four hours and 34 minutes, traffic
permitting. But for Melissa O’Neil Yearous, after one of the most challenging days
of her collegiate track & field career, it must have felt much, much longer.
O’Neil had completed a standout basketball career and was in the midst of a
senior track season that would end with her becoming the first All-American in
program history. Her performance at the Penn Relays – a three-day track & field
meet that becomes the center of that sport’s world the last weekend of every April –
was the spark for O’Neil’s accolades, though not in the way many would think.
The high jump event was set to begin with an abnormally high opening jump of five
feet, six inches – “I’d cleared that before, but I’d certainly never started there
before!” said O’Neil – and one of the best field athletes in Clarion history couldn’t
get past the first round of jumps.
“I bombed it. I just bombed it,” O’Neil said.
Not a word passed between O’Neil and former head coach Pat Mooney as
the two drove back to campus. Not until the very end of the drive.
“Coach Mooney dropped me off at my car, and I’ll never forget what he said to
me right then. He told me, ‘Don’t worry about it. I’ve never had a senior do
anything at that meet,’” O’Neil said.
The words stung O’Neil. For someone as confident in her abilities and motivated for
success as her, knowing that she let her coach, let herself, down was difficult. Instead
of crumbling, though, she vowed to make things right.
“I was going to make damn sure that never happened again,” said O’Neil, biting off
each word like it was still April 2001.
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T
o hear O’Neil tell it, her first
love was always the game of
basketball, so much so that she
decided at a young age what she
wanted to do for a career.
“Where I have been so blessed is that
I knew in fifth grade that I was going
to become a basketball coach when I
grew up,” said O’Neil. “I was going to
camps in the summer, playing pick-up
at every opportunity, and as I got older
that morphed into working at camps and
forming relationships with coaches and
players.”
A dyed-in-the-wool Hawkeye, the
Iowa native had a decision to make in
high school. She had the opportunity
to attend the University of Iowa and
compete on the track & field team but
did not want to give up on her dream to
play college basketball. O’Neil knew that
it would be difficult to do both at Iowa,
where both coaches would be leery of
her splitting her attention. After a frank
conversation with the basketball coaches
at Iowa, the door to following both of her
passions appeared when former Clarion
women’s basketball coach Gie Parsons
came calling.
“The folks at Iowa worked behind the
scenes, calling other coaches they knew
that were looking for a scholarship player
at the Division II level,” said O’Neil. “Gie
called me and invited me to campus, and
I came out for a visit.”
Clarion Years
O’Neil said she instantly fell in love
with Clarion – “by the time I left the visit,
I told my parents I was committing there
and we could figure out the details later”
– but she still wanted to compete on the
track. After discussions with Parsons
and Mooney in which they agreed to let
O’Neil compete both in basketball and
track, she made the trek halfway across
the country to Pennsylvania.
“At first it was difficult for me, being
so far from home,” O’Neil said. “This is
before cell phones, so it’s not like I could
just call or text them when I wanted. I
don’t even think we were really using email
yet. The people at Clarion did everything
they could to make it feel like family and
home for me.”
O’Neil was a two-time Second Team
All-PSAC West selection in basketball and
finished her Clarion career as one of only
a small handful of players to record 1,000
points and 500 rebounds in her career. She
was seen as a leader for the Golden Eagles,
especially in her ability to take burdens off
the shoulders of her teammates.
“I remember we used to run something
called the “70 Percent Drill” in practice that
we all hated,” recalled O’Neil. “Coach would
put garbage cans out in the gym and we
would have to sprint until someone shot 70
percent or someone got sick. I never cared
how exhausted I was, I would always try to
shoot my free throws first and milk every
second of the clock I could to let them
catch their breath.”
“Being able to stretch yourself
emotionally and physically, calming your
heart rate in difficult situations, that’s
mental toughness.”
That same mental toughness is
what allowed O’Neil to overcome the
disappointment of her performance at the
Penn Relays in her senior year. Many would
have been discouraged, but she became
even more determined to prove herself
against the best in the country. O’Neil
qualified for the NCAA Championships in
a meet the next week and headed west
for the 2001 Championships hosted by
Southern Illinois-Edwardsville.
The conditions were cold and windy that
day – not necessarily ideal for the majority
of competitors, but hardly out of the
ordinary for the Iowa product.
“Back then we didn’t have all the
modern cold gear like tights or Under
Armour, just minimal tight clothing, and we
practiced every day in the sleet, rain and
wind,” O’Neil said. “Even though I was 16th
on the performance list, I knew I could beat
anyone there because of the way I trained
and my mental toughness. Nothing was
going to stop me.”
O’Neil tied for fourth in the nation that
day with a high jump of 1.67 meters, or five
feet, five and three-quarter inches. And
even though he stayed in the press box and
didn’t make his way down to the field, she
knew what Pat Mooney was thinking as she
jumped.
“He didn’t want to get in my way,” said
O’Neil, who said the two shared a laugh
after the meet was over. “I knew he was
watching, but I knew I could do it.”
Being able to stretch yourself
“
emotionally and physically,
calming your heart rate
in difficult situations,
that’s mental toughness.”
Clarion university
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33
New Paths
After graduating O’Neil became a
graduate assistant coach at Syracuse
under head coach Marianna Freeman,
joining the Orange in their first NCAA
Tournament run since the 1988 season.
She pursued a master’s degree in
advertising and moved on to Indiana
(Pa.) where she served as a full-time
assistant under Cindy Martin. O’Neil
was finally living the goal she set for
herself when she was 10 years old, but
something was missing. Three years
after joining the staff at IUP, O’Neil left
the basketball coaching profession and
returned with her husband and family to
Iowa.
“I was reflecting on the situation
and realized that I wanted to explore a
different path,” O’Neil said. “I had missed
a lot of my daughter growing up because
of the grind of college basketball
coaching and recruiting, and I realized I
didn’t want to miss any more.”
Make an impact
O’Neil took a position as a challenge
coordinator at Iowa State University
Extension – Polk County and found that
it gave her the satisfaction of coaching
individuals to their full potential without
the other caveats the college game
provided. The switch had flipped.
“I spent seven years teaching
emotional intelligence on the ropes
course,” O’Neil said. “We were able
to help people build self-efficacy. It’s
different than building their self-esteem,
which is getting people to accept
themselves and their own personalities.
Self-efficacy is believing you can have an
impact on your world.”
The work O’Neil did over those
seven years reached a wide array of
people, ranging from students dealing
with bullying in school to employees of
major corporations trying to take the
next steps in their careers. According
to O’Neil, the message was always the
same: if you can do this, what else can
you accomplish?
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I told her, ‘Listen, the first time
you jump, and you miss and land
on the bar, it’s going to hurt.’
“It’s a process of getting people to
build their confidence and maintain it,”
O’Neil said. “When people got ready
to go down our zip line, they had the
confidence that in taking that first step
off they were going to be alright. In doing
that, they’re less afraid of taking the next
step once they get back on the ground.”
Take a Stand
O’Neil, always ready for another
challenge, became vice president of Iowa
Jobs for America’s Graduates (iJAG) in
August 2013. If ISU Extension was about
teaching self-efficacy to a wide range
of people, iJAG was about instilling
that value in young people to make a
long-lasting difference in their lives. A
non-profit organization that focuses on
dropout prevention and school-to-career
paths for Iowa’s high school students,
iJAG works with more than 2,000 at-risk
students in Iowa – including roughly 25
percent who had neither parent complete
high school - and shows them the power
they possess in themselves to change
their communities.
“We’re teaching these kids to take a
stand for something,” O’Neil said. “Be
it a social justice issue, a political issue,
anything that they feel passionately
about. If they believe it with all of their
heart, we’re going to give them the
confidence to stand up for it.”
“It’s incredible to see what these kids
are willing to do for their communities,
what they’re willing to sacrifice for
others,” O’Neil said. “So many of them
live in poverty, not knowing where their
next meals will come from, and they’re
doing things like food drives for other
people! There’s so much selflessness.”
“We want these kids not just to
graduate, but to graduate with hope for
the future.”
Set goals
In February 2016 O’Neil accepted a
new role as CEO of Central Iowa Shelter
and Services in Des Moines, the largest
homeless shelter in the state. Naturally,
though, O’Neil doesn’t refer to it simply
as a homeless shelter.
“I like to refer to it as the ‘Opportunity
Center,’” she says.
Even though she doesn’t have a
whistle around her neck or a ball in her
hand any longer, O’Neil still considers
herself a coach.
“I still have that purpose, that passion
when it comes to trying to push people
beyond what they believe is possible,”
she said. “My wish for this world is that
more young people could find those
things and pursue them.”
There’s one young person in particular,
though, that she takes special joy in
“coaching.”
“My daughter is the spitting image
of me,” laughed O’Neil. “She’s going to
be going into track for the first time this
year, and I started showing her the high
jump. I told her, ‘Listen, the first time you
jump, and you miss and land on the bar,
it’s going to hurt,’ and she looked at me
and said, ‘Why would you do that?’”
“I told her fear shouldn’t discourage
you or hold you back. It has to be what
drives you to persevere and keep trying
to get over it,” O’Neil said. “When I talk
to her she says things like she wants to
be an entrepreneur, and that she wants
to do something with that and robotics.
She’s so young but she’s already got
goals to strive for.”
Sounds familiar.
Take a few minutes to talk with
Brock Zacherl, and one thing
will become apparent
very quickly: The young
man has no shortage
of confidence, and
that’s for a very
good reason.
Brock
Zacherl
In his first year as a competing member
of the wrestling team, Zacherl has shown to
be one of the best wrestlers in his weight
class – not just in the Eastern Wrestling
League, but in all of NCAA Division I. After
dropping a bout to
Northern Illinois’
Steve Bleise Nov.
7, Zacherl won 20
straight matches to
improve to 27-1 on
the season. He rode that winning streak
through the entire Eastern Wrestling
League tournament, earning a berth to the
NCAA Championships as a result. As of
March 8, he was ranked 18th in the nation
at his weight class by InterMat Wrestling, a
nod that is indicative of
the respect he’s garnered
across the country.
Zacherl doesn’t try to
pretend that he doesn’t
aren’t the focus, though. The
goal isn’t to be ranked, it’s to
win a championship. But…”
He grinned.
“I know I’m better than
what they say. It’s on me to go
out there and prove it.”
As for any freshman,
the first days of a college
education can be rough.
However, the “rough” portion
that most of those freshmen
go through doesn’t include
the physical and mental toll of
college wrestling. Even for
Zacherl, a heralded recruit
from nearby Brookville,
there was an adjustment
period in fall 2014.
“Oh man, it was a
wake-up call,” Zacherl said. “You come in
from high school where you were the big
dog and might be physically more capable
than everyone else, and then you’re on a
team where everyone already has that? It’s
tough.”
“I know I’m better than what they say.
It’s on me to go out there and prove it.”
know what the rest of the wrestling world
is saying about him, either. In fact, he uses
that as motivation to get better.
“I mean, it’s hard not to know about the
rankings and things like that with Facebook
and Twitter,” Zacherl said. “Those things
Clarion university
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35
“I just tried to come in every day and
work hard and avoid the rollercoaster. If
you do that, the tables can turn and turn
fast.”
Zacherl recalled the steep learning
curve in going against Division I
competition every day in practice, but
there was an added catch in his case: he
would redshirt during the 2014-15 season.
He would be able to practice with the
team and could compete unattached at
open tournaments but was not allowed to
wrestle in dual meets.
“It was definitely different than
anything I’d experienced before, and it
was weird at first,” Zacherl said. “I knew I
was part of the team but didn’t always feel
like it.”
“Anytime you make a decision about
a redshirt – whether you do or don’t – it’s
tough,” said head coach Keith Ferraro. “At
the time we had a fifth-year senior at 141
pounds that we knew could do a good job,
but I also know the benefit Brock would
take from that redshirt year. I knew his
mindset and had faith that he would use
the year to the best ends possible.”
Viewing this as an opportunity to grow
and improve – “I viewed it as a chance to
prosper and I feel I really excelled at it,”
Zacherl said – the freshman displayed his
ability in open tournaments and put his
name on the college wrestling radar.
“He used the redshirt year the way
you’re supposed to use it,” Ferraro
said. “He trained hard, wrestled a ton of
matches and learned something valuable
from every win and every loss. He set
himself up for success.”
Zacherl won the Mat Town and Purple
Raider open tournaments at 141 pounds
as he continued to hone his skills on
the mat. He qualified for the national
freestyle tournament due to his placing
at prominent tournaments such as the
ASICS/Vaughan Junior National Freestyle
Championships and the United World
Wrestling Cadet and University Nationals.
Zacherl parlayed that success into a
spot at the UWW Junior World Team Trials
36
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
“
He trained hard, wrestled a
ton of matches and learned
According to Ferraro,
watching Zacherl’s
transformation during
this stretch highlighted
the qualities that have
made him successful in
2015-16.
“No matter who the
competition is, Brock
enters every tournament
to win,” Ferraro said.
“Looking back on that
training cycle, he was
as disciplined as I’d ever
seen him. To cut the weight he did to
wrestle at 132 and wrestle as well as he
did is really remarkable.
“There was low margin for error and
he handled it perfectly.”
“It was the most exciting trip I’ve ever
been on in my life,” said Zacherl, who
wrestled against 2014 UWW Junior World
something valuable from
every win and every loss. He
set himself up for success.”
–Ferraro
event in Madison, Wisc., in June, where he
won the 132-pound weight class. He cleared
the nine-man bracket and defeated Gary
Wayne Harding, the top-ranked wrestler
in the event, and earned a trip to the
U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado
Springs, Colo., to wrestle for a spot on
the UWW Junior World Championships in
Brazil.
silver medalist Joey McKenna for the final
spot on the team. “It was an unbelievable
experience.”
McKenna defeated Zacherl in a
best-of-three competition to take the
team spot, but Zacherl said the level
of competition he was afforded in his
training was completely invaluable, not
just to his development but also to his
confidence.
“The senior-level Olympic team
was there while we were, so we got
to train against them as well,” Zacherl
said. “Every single day I was wrestling
against guys that won multiple NCAA
championships, Hodge Trophy finalists
[the highest honor in amateur wrestling],
and I was able to compete with them. It
made me believe I could do it, too.”
Zacherl brought that passion and
confidence back with him to Clarion in
2015. Now a redshirt freshman eligible to
compete with the rest of his teammates,
“Every single day
I was wrestling
against guys
that won
multiple NCAA
championships.”
he said his mindset had changed drastically
in just a year’s time.
“I definitely worked with a lot more
urgency this year because I knew there was
more pressure,” Zacherl said. “Whereas last
year I knew that I wouldn’t be competing in
March, this year I knew it was crunch time.
It’s more pressure, but it’s a good pressure
to have.”
On March 5, Zacherl shrugged off
the pressure and etched his name
into Clarion lore. Entering the EWL
Tournament as a top-seed in the
141-pound bracket, he stormed his way
to the finals and claimed a 7-0 decision
to earn an automatic bid to the NCAA
Championships, hosted at Madison
Square Garden.
According to Ferraro, the strongest
trait Zacherl developed in the last year
was developing a critical eye toward the
man in the mirror.
“There are some technical things
that he’s improved on, but the biggest
growth has been in his ability to
identify those weaknesses and work
relentlessly to correct them,” Ferraro
said. “He’s always seeking about the best
competition to train with, and he trains
exceptionally hard. His goal is to be a
champion, and he trains that way.”
Sports Hall of Fame
KOONTZ
BEATTY
Clarion University
Robert J. Beatty (1980; football/baseball),
Bernie Carpenter (1980; football),
Frank Edgar (2005; wrestling),
James Koontz (1979; baseball),
William “Bill” May (1968; golf), AND
Melissa (Yearous) O’Neil (2001; women’s
basketball/track & field).
(YEAROUS) O’NEIL
Edgar
2016 inductees:
MAY
CARPENTEr
Committee has announced
Induction will be April 29 at Eagle Commons dining hall.
A social starts at 5:30 p.m., followed by the ceremony at 7 p.m.
Tickets are $40 per person. To order, call Scott Courtney
at 814-393-2057 or email him at scourtney@clarion.edu.
Make checks payable to Clarion Sports Hall of Fame.
Clarion university
magazine
37
2015-2016
Basketball
men’s Basketball
Clockwise from top: Rob Agurs
earned Second Team All-PSAC West
honors and led the Golden Eagles
with eight double-doubles in 201516; key junior contributors that will
return next season include center
Akeem Williams (left), who was
one of the best shot blockers in the
PSAC last season, and high-scoring
guard BJ Andrews (right); De’Ondre
Terrell celebrates a basket in the
Golden Eagles’ early season win
over Gannon at Tippin Gymnasium;
head coach Marcess Williams led
the Golden Eagles to the PSAC
Tournament for the first time since
the 2009-10 season.
38
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
The men’s basketball team, under the direction of
second-year head coach Marcess Williams, proved themselves
to be one of the most dangerous teams in the PSAC West
division in 2015-16, thanks to a high-pressure style that
emphasizes creating havoc in the opposing backcourt. That
formula allowed the Golden Eagles to surpass last season’s
win total with six games yet to play and put them in the
PSAC Tournament for the first time since the 2009-10 season.
The Golden Eagles came from 13 points back to upset the
third-seeded Edinboro Fighting Scots in the first round of
the tournament before bowing out to Mercyhurst in the
quarterfinals.
The contributions have come from all corners of
the roster as Williams routinely finds minutes for
10 or more players on any given night. One night,
the hero could be senior swingman and Second
Team All-PSAC West performer Rob Agurs, who
is capable of playing at guard or forward and
produced a team-best eight double-doubles.
Other nights it could be senior point guard Andre’
Anthony, whose 33-point effort against Carlow
Nov. 28 was the best single-game scoring output
for a Golden Eagle since Lloyd Harrison scored 34
points against Edinboro in 2011.
Or it could be senior center Tim Gill, who led
Clarion to an upset win over Mercyhurst Feb. 6 by
bullying his way to 22 points against the Lakers.
Or freshman Cameron Grumley, who came off the
bench for 14 points for a close win over California.
Or…
Well, you get the idea. According to Williams,
the minutes on the floor aren’t necessarily predicated about
what happens when the lights turn on, but rather what a
player does when they’re off.
“It’s all based off their practice habits,” said Williams, who
said the decision to take on the identity of a pressing team
necessitated a rotation of ‘at least’ 10 players. “If you practice
well, you get bumped into the rotation. We have enough guys
that it allows us to kind of gauge them on practice and reward
the guys that work hard.
If you’re engaged and competing hard in practice, and
you’re picking up what we’re putting down, you’re going to
get that trust from us on game day.”
Women’s Basketball
After a rebuilding 2014-15
campaign for the women’s basketball
team, second-year head coach Jana Ashley
has the Golden Eagles back on track to
competing in the PSAC West division. The
team that won just one conference game
and two overall the season before improved
greatly in 2015-16; the team was in the thick
of the playoff hunt until the final week of
the season and improved by seven games
in the standings from the previous season.
Ashley says the fresh blood in the
program has been at the root of the team’s
turnaround this season.
“I think the root of our success comes
from recruiting, and that started at the
beginning of last season,” Ashley said.
“Even though we had a difficult year, the
players we secured last fall and spring
made a difference in how competitive
we could be in the league overall and in
specific games. We brought in the types of
kids that don’t accept losing and will fight
every day in practice and in games.”
Better yet, the contributions have
(necessarily) come from the team’s
underclassmen, as the Golden Eagles had
just one senior – guard Tania Holmes – on
the roster in 2016. Holmes capped an
excellent Clarion career by becoming just
the 17th player in program history to top
1,000 points, and, in fact, surpassed Hannah
Heeter for ninth on the all-time list after a
12-point effort against Mercyhurst Feb. 6.
That said, the Golden Eagles show
more promise for the future because of the
quality of those returning to the team next
season. Junior Tyra Polite showed signs of
being one of the more dangerous scorers
in the league, averaging 13.6 points per
game, but going off for 20-plus points on a
number of occasions, including a 27-point
effort against IUP Jan. 16. Delrika JonesCarey provided a spark in the post with
three double-doubles, showing the ability
to score in a variety of ways while not
sacrificing rebounding ability in the process.
Freshman Jordan Bekelja asserted
herself as a dangerous player in her rookie
season. The guard from Solon, Ohio, earned
PSAC West Freshman of the Week honors
three times in 2015-16. Other freshmen on
the squad include Taylor Moltz, a bench
post player with dangerous shooting
ability, and Nicole Maxson, a forward who
saw her playing time increase as the year
went on. Ashley reiterated, though, that it
takes everyone on the team to establish a
winning culture, something that the Eagles
have so far begun to do.
“Their attitude and toughness have gone
a long way toward changing things on
the court on game day,” Ashley said. “This
team pushes each other to get better every
single day in workouts and in practice, and
it shows up when it matters.”
(Clockwise from top): Second-year head coach Jana Ashley oversaw a
seven-game improvement in the standings in 2015-16; freshman guard
Jordan Bekelja was three times honored as the PSAC West Freshman of
the Week in 2015-16; senior guard Tania Holmes became one of just 17
players in program history to score 1,000 career points and finished her
career ranked ninth in program history in scoring; junior forward Delrika
Jones-Carey was a tough matchup in the post for opponents, recording
three double-doubles on the season.
Clarion university
magazine
39
John Burja (’88) portrays
Daisy in “Baby with the
Bathwater” in 1986.
40
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Alumni
Notes
Spring 2016
1966
Joseph Eckhardt is retired and just
published his third book, “Living Large:
Wilna Hervey and Nan Mason.” He resides
in Lansdale.
1970
1977
Theresa (Leisey) Eisele is employed with
Four Season Produce. She resides in
Reinholds.
Sharon (DArgo) Rathi retired after 10 years
as principal of Conneaut Area Sr. High
School. She resides in Meadville with her
husband, Michael.
Robert Hodgson is retired. He resides in
Jean (Borsh) and Jack (’71) Inskip reside
Harrisburg with his wife, Nancy. He has
in Fairfield. Jean was recently named
three children: Dan, Emily and Sean.
director of the Bureau of Curriculum,
Assessment and Instruction at Pennsylvania
Department of Education, Harrisburg. They
have a daughter, Dr. Megan Maurer.
Thomas Slagel handles purchasing
and estimating for Dan Ryan Builders,
Morgantown, W.Va. He resides in
Joseph and Joanne (Wiater ‘73) Donovan Morgantown with his children: Katie, Amy
and Emma.
reside in Pittsburgh. Joseph is an agent
1979
1972
with Spectrum Insurance Services, Mars.
1973
Gary Walstrom Sr. recently retired as
principal of Glendale School District after
38 years of service. He was a social studies
teacher for 20 years and an administrator
for 18 years. Gary resides in Glasgow, Pa.,
with his wife, Betsy. He has two sons.
Corinne (Hosfield ’79) Smith has written a
nonfiction book for middle-grade readers.
“Henry David Thoreau for Kids: His Life and
Ideas, With 21 Activities,” will be published
by Chicago Review Press in January 2016.
It combines biographical narrative with
hands-on suggestions so that young
students can incorporate some of Thoreau’s
ideas into their everyday lives. The book
has already gotten a favorable nod by
Kirkus Reviews, which concluded that it is
“Utilitarian of format but well organized
and with plenty of grist for both minds and
hands.” Smith’s first book, “Westward I Go
Free: Tracing Thoreau’s Last Journey,” was
released in 2012.
1980
Annamarie (Shutey) Mellett is
administrative associate to the chair of
emergency medicine for the Penn State
Hershey Medical Center, Hershey. She
resides in Harrisburg.
1981
Margaret (Kernan) Bauer is self-employed
as owner of My Laundromat, Imperial. She
resides in Georgetown with her husband,
Greg, and has three sons: Dan, Andrew and
Joe.
1990
Colonel Thomas and Tamara (Schnur ‘91)
Netzel reside in Alexandria, Va., with their
sons, Jacob and Benjamin. Thomas is in the
United States Army, Washington, D.C.
1992
Jody (Hartley) Vinson is owner of Back to
Basics Nutrition and Fitness. She resides in
Centerton, Ark., with her husband, Scott,
and sons, Jack and Clay.
1997
Krissi (Nastal) Butler is an assistant
principal for Kershaw County School
District, Camden, S.C. She resides in Lugoff,
S.C., with her husband, Brett, and children,
Savannah and Logan.
Clarion university
magazine
41
2002
1998
Stephen Williams is owner and funeral
director for Osborne-Williams Funeral
Home, Greenville. He resides in Greenville
with his wife, Christina, and sons, Stephen
and Sawyer.
1999
Mark Watts is a 5th grade teacher for
Saint Mary Magdalene Catholic School,
Columbus, Ohio. He resides in Columbus
with his wife, Nikki, and daughters: Claire,
Abigail and Quinn.
2000
Ben Stentz is executive director of
recreation and parks for the town of
Princeton, N.J. He resides in Hamilton, N.J.,
with his wife, Angela, and son, Michael.
Ashleigh Jade Kozup is a sponsorship
director for Steve Harvey, Atlanta, Ga. She
resides in Smyrna, Ga.
Paul (PJ) Carroll is a safety, health and
environment manager/business unit SHE
lead for Cobham Advanced Electronic
Solutions, Lansdale. He resides in
Pennsburg with his daughter, Riley.
Dr. Christopher and Jennifer (Kibler)
Davis reside in Greenbrier, Ark., with their
children: Emma, Noah, Addison, Kristen
and Victoria. Christopher is a vice-president
for information systems and technology for
the University of Central Arkansas, Conway,
Ark.
2001
Dr. Dennis Slagle is a neonatologist for
The Women’s Hospital – Deaconess Health
System, Evansville, Ind. He resides in
Newburgh, Ind., with his wife, Dr. Stacey
Slagle, and children: Noah, Joshua and
Eliana.
Brianne (O’Hara M.S. 03) Brinkley is a
speech/language pathologist for Howard
County Public School System, Laurel, Md.
She resides in Baltimore with her husband,
Tom, and daughters, Harper and Campbell.
42
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Cindy (Miller) McBride is an area salon
leader for JC Penney, Cranberry, Pa. She
has two children, Lindsey and Sean.
Dr. Michael and Amanda (Speth ’04) Sable
reside in Jefferson Hills with their sons,
Zane and Zeke. Michael was awarded his
Doctor of Education in advanced leadership
studies in November 2015. He is a middle
school principal at West Mifflin Area School
District.
2003
Kristin (Kneib) Parmer is an account
services coordinator for Clipper Magazine,
Mountville, Pa. She resides in Leola, Pa.,
with her husband, Justin, and children,
Alexis and Jackson.
Jessica (Wallace) and Joseph (’05)
Williamson reside in Verona with their
daughters, Adelaide and Wren. Jessica is an
optician for Insight Vision Care, Pittsburgh.
2004
Alfred Encarnacion is a library director
for Stratford Public Library. He resides in
Woodbury, NJ.
Michelle (Miller) Sakovics is a registered
nurse case manager for You Care Health
Plan, Williamsville, NY. She is also an ice
skating coach with Skate Great, Buffalo,
N.Y. She resides in Blasdell, N.Y., with her
son Austin.
2007
Kelly (Devlin) Harper is assistant principal
of Roundtown Elementary School in the
Central York School District, York. She
resides in York with her husband, Shane,
and children: Madison, Christian and Jacob.
Douglas and Ladona (Owens) Strouse
reside in Oxford, N.C. Ladona is a
supervisor clinician for Masonic Home for
Children at Oxford.
Bradley Soylan is a legislative assistant for
Congresswoman Lois Frankel, Washington,
D.C. He resides in Washington.
2008
Caleb Young is an assistant athletic
director/upper school teacher for
Dayspring Christian Academy. He resides in
Elizabethtown with his wife, Maria.
2009
Deserie (Vendetti) Sayre received a
Master of Education in literacy education
from The Pennsylvania State University
with reading specialist and literacy
leadership certifications. Deserie resides in
Mechanicsburg.
2010
Kristen (Pearce M.S. ’12) Whiteford is a
speech therapist for Healthpro. She resides
in Bellwood with her husband, Christopher.
2012
Allison (M.S.L.S ’14) Latagliata is a library
director for Marian Sutherland Kirby
Library, Wilkes-Barre. She resides in WilkesBarre.
2013
Timothy Port is a clinical treatment
supervisor for Abraxas, Marienville. He
resides in New Bethlehem.
Lindsay (Thill) and Benjamin Fiscus reside
in Wexford. Lindsay is a special education
teacher for Canon McMillen and Ben is an
internal auditor for PNC Bank.
Megan (Odonish) Leichtenberger is a
color correction specialist for Blair Corp.,
Warren. Megan resides in Sheffield with her
husband, Kyle, and children, Madilynn and
Toby.
2015
Meredith Hendrix-Jackson is library
assistant, CAS, for the Library System of
Lancaster County. She resides in Lancaster
with her wife, Kat Jackson.
we want to
know about you!
And so do your Clarion classmates. It’s easy to share your latest personal milestones and
professional accomplishments in the pages of Clarion University Magazine. Just send us a note!
Visit www.clarion.edu/alumni-update
Births
Tom and Brianne (O’Hara ’01, M.S. ’03)
Brinkley, a daughter, Campbell, March
4, 2015
marriages
Mark Engel and Janet (’98) Eggleston,
May 17, 2014
Kyle Leichtenberger and Megan (’13)
Odonish, Sept. 13, 2014
Justin Parmer and Kristin (’03) Kneib,
October 2014
Michael Rathi and Sharon (’77) DArgi,
July 18, 2015
Christopher Whiteford and Kristen
(’10, M.S. ’12) Pearce, Sept. 26, 2015
Christopher (’11) Katella and Kayla
Soltis, Oct. 3, 2015
Jason Bolen and Tracy (’03)
Weakland, Oct. 10, 2015
Ben (’00) Stentz and Angela Siso,
Oct. 11, 2015
Shane and Kelly (Devlin ’07) Harper, a
son, Jacob Michael, June 16, 2015
Kyle and Megan (Odonish ’13)
Leichtenberger, a son, Toby Robert,
Aug. 9, 2015
Joseph (’05) and Jessica (Wallace
’03) Williamson, a daughter, Wren
Sophia-Grace, Sept. 19, 2015
Mark (’99) and Nikki Watts, a daughter,
Quinn, Oct. 7, 2015
Justin and Kristin (Kneib ’03) Parmer,
a son, Jackson, Oct. 15, 2015
In Memoriam
1940s
Ilene G. (Ross ’44) Bovaird, Sept. 18, 2015
Mervin K. Strickler (’47), Sept. 18, 2015
William B. Martin (’49), Dec. 27, 2015
William D. Gilbert (’47), March 17, 2016
1950s
John J. Lutz (’57), Sept. 20, 2015
John N. Wiberg ’52, Oct. 14, 2015
Sue A. (Buzard ’58) Martonik, Oct. 27, 2015
Grace Vogus (’52), March 3, 2016
1960s
Larry B. Schrecengost ’62, Nov. 13, 2015
Carol S. (Strickland ’62) Sayers, Dec. 18, 2015
Joseph P. Shaw ’64, Dec. 23, 2015
Bonnie D. (Brannen ’69) Agostino, Jan. 29, 2016
Emily J. (Fry ’66) Conners, Feb. 6, 2016
George T. Ihnat (’62), Feb. 10, 2016
Joan A. (Moody ’66) Beichner, March 4, 2016
1970s
Dorothy J. (Willen ’72) Reitz, Oct. 20, 2015
David M. Speer (’76), Dec. 24, 2015
1980s
Elizabeth C. Eichlin ’82, Nov. 25, 2015
Beverly A. Books ’84, Jan. 26, 2016
Richard D. Sheffel (’81), Feb. 9, 2016
Joseph A. Keblitsch (’84), Feb. 29, 2016
1990s
Keith J. Rice ’92, Oct. 13, 2015
Friends
Keith Martin, Oct. 5, 2015
Jerry McKisson, Oct. 16, 2015
Sue A. Martonik, Oct. 27, 2015
Eugene Sobolewski, Nov. 14, 2015
James Blake, Dec. 18, 2015
Ellie Gardner, Dec. 24, 2015
Gail A. Fields, Jan. 8, 2016
Charles Ruslavage, Feb. 15, 2016
Clarion university
magazine
43
Our gift to baby Eagles of Clarion alumni is a dashing new
bib! To receive a bib, let us know about the new addition
to your nest by emailing to alumni@clarion.edu:
• Parents’ names
• Full address
• Graduation year of alumni
• Baby’s name and gender
• Date of birth
Once you receive your bib, take a picture of your Eaglet
putting the bib to use, and email a high-resolution photo
to us for inclusion in Clarion University Magazine.
Indie
Indie D’Annibale, daughter
of James (’13) and Shelbie
D’Annibale, born June 16, 2015
Colson
Colson Anthony Long, son of Niki
(Stedina ’01) Long, born April 21,
2015
44
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Malakye
Malakye Johnny Darr, son of Andrew
and Brittany (’13) Darr, born Oct. 13,
2015
Rowan
Rowan McKinley Yurko, daughter
of Kevin and Erin (Cooper ’05)
Yurko, born June 19, 2015
Molly
Molly McAdoo, daughter
of Josh (’07) and Lynnsey
McAdoo, born May 23, 2015
JaYda
Jayda Noonan, daughter of Steve
and Haley (Hynes ’06) Noonan,
born Nov. 17, 2014
Maxwell
Maxwell Martin, son of Carl (’13)
and Tara (’06, MS ’07) Martin,
born March 21, 2015
Summer
Summer Ealy, daughter of Aaron
and Autumn (Hall ’11) Ealy, born
Aug. 9, 2015
Liam
Liam Thomas Hetrick, son of
Jason and Lynn (Russell ’09),
born Aug. 9, 2014
Owen
Kaylynn
Kaylynn Grace Raydo, daughter
of Eric and Beth (’04) Raydo,
born June 27, 2015
Wren
Owen Paul Pollock, son of Jason
(’07) and Jennifer (Weaver ’06)
Pollock, born Aug. 31, 2015
Evelyn
Allison
Evelyn Louise Freeman, daughter
of Geoffrey (’13) and Allison
(Stoltz ’09) Freeman, born Sept.
11, 2015
Sienna
Sienna Andersen, daughter of
Ted and Marissa (Lunardi ’00)
Andersen, born Dec. 4, 2015
Allison Rebecca Sprankle, daughter
of Sean (’02) and Melissa Sprankle,
born Dec. 14, 2015
Lillian
Lillian Grace Boltz, daughter of
Chad and Mackenzie (Mayes ’15),
born March 2, 2015
Wren Sophia-Grace Williamson,
daughter of Joseph (’05)
and Jessica (Wallace ’03)
Williamson, born Sept. 19, 2015
August
August William Franzetta, son of
Anthony and Krisa (Keller ’08)
Franzetta, born March 12, 2015
Val
Val Joseph Peles, son of Dan and
Julie (Evenoski ’04) Peles, born
Aug. 6, 2015
Clarion university
magazine
45
Michalee Christy:
Exceptional
Teacher
46
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
Michalee (Lopuh ’99) Christy was
named VFW Teacher of the Year in
Pennsylvania in 2015 and has been
nominated for the 2016 award.
The contest recognizes exceptional
teachers for their outstanding
commitment to teaching Americanism
and patriotism to their students. Each
year, a classroom elementary, junior
high and high school teacher whose
curriculum focuses on citizenship
education topics for at least half of the
school day in a classroom environment
can be nominated for the Smart/Maher
VFW National Citizenship Education
Teacher Award.
Christy, who is vocal director for
Mercer High School, went up against 450
other Pennsylvania educators for the
2015 honor. She was nominated through
Mercer VFW Post 6345.
“We do many different types of
patriotic influences in the classroom. Each
year is different,” Christy said. “Each year
I have all 252 students learn “The StarSpangled Banner” in four-part harmony,
then we travel around in groups of four
to 20, singing at different events in the
community.”
Several times Christy has organized
a patriots concert to honor those who
have served or are serving, and many
students will take part in the USO Concert
honoring veterans on the 4th of July.
“I simply try to teach that the gift of
voice, whether speaking or singing, can
be used to honor your country,” Christy
said.
“Mrs. Christy is more than a teacher
– she is a mentor and has made an
incredible impact in my life,” said Janalyn
Miklas, a senior at Mercer High School.
“She has impeccable insight and pushes
me to my limit in the vocal and theater
departments. I cannot thank her enough
for all the wonderful things she has done
for our school and our community.”
Another Mercer senior, Ryan Hamilton,
describes Christy as “one of the most
sincerely dedicated teachers” he has had.
“She truly cares for every one of her
students. I personally have been involved
in the choir program since seventh grade
and am now the president of the choir
department, and every step of the way
she has striven for the best that every
student can put forward,” Hamilton said.
“She teaches us not only how to sing and
perform, but she also connects music to
everyday life.”
Michalee Christy (left) and theatre professor Marilouise “Mel” Michel watch performances by
Christy’s Mercer High School students, whom she brought to campus in October for a theatre
workshop.
Clarion university
magazine
47
Courageous
endeavors
Nathan Mathewson
N
athan Mathewson hadn’t yet reached his
first birthday when he was diagnosed with CHARGE
Syndrome, a rare disorder that arises during early
fetal development and affects multiple organ
systems.
The term “CHARGE” comes from the first letter
of some of the more common features seen in
these children:
• Coloboma and cranial nerve defects
• Heart defects
• Atresia of the choanae (blocked nasal
breathing passages)
• Retardation of growth and development
• Genital underdevelopment
• Ear abnormalities and sensorineural
hearing loss
“
I have a note taker,
and I have priority
scheduling so I can
schedule classes in
an easy route.”
48
Spring 2016
www.clarion.edu
“It’s life-threatening from the beginning,” Mathewson
said.
He was born with a hole in his heart that had to be
repaired. He lived with a gastrostomy tube for a while.
“When they put it in, they took my appendix out, so I
have scar tissue, and multiple times it’s impacted my
entire GI tract. I’ve had a lot of surgeries for that,” he said.
His most recent surgery was to correct a muscle in
his eye in 2015. Coloboma, a condition in which normal
tissue in or around the eye is missing from birth, causes
Mathewson to be very nearsighted, and he has low
peripheral vision, blind spots and double vision. His eyes
don’t correctly process objects coming toward him, so
activities such as playing sports or driving aren’t possible
for him. He also has significant hearing impairment in his
left ear, necessitating a hearing aid.
“My childhood was not a normal one. I’m not interested
in sports, and with eye and ear issues and the resulting
balance problem, I didn’t do much running around. I
stayed inside and colored or read a book,” Mathewson
said. “I did have fun dribbling a basketball to myself, or
running around by myself. I couldn’t do structured stuff.
Not everyone realizes someone can’t roughhouse or
doesn’t like roughhousing. I was very emotional about
that kind of stuff.”
Still, Mathewson considers himself fortunate.
“I realized as I grew up that I got lucky. I’m one of the
more high-functioning people with CHARGE,” he said.
“Some people have a trach and feeding tube all their
lives.”
He also has no cognitive disabilities. He does have a
learning disability, but it wasn’t discovered until he was a
senior in high school. “It was there, but nobody ever said
anything about it. I was able to do the work.”
Now, Mathewson is a junior library science major. He
transferred to Clarion last fall after completing two years
at Community College of Allegheny County.
“I have a note taker, and I have priority scheduling
so I can schedule classes in an easy route so it’s not so
physically taxing getting around campus. This semester,
I have three online classes and classes in Founders two
days a week,” Mathewson said.
He lives in Suites on Main South. On days he doesn’t
have class, he likes to visit his favorite spots on campus –
Carlson Library, Gemmell, Eagle Commons or The Den.
Clarion University’s
Alumni Weekend
Blue&Gold
Color
RUN
Sunday, June 5, 2016
Registration at 8 a.m.; Shotgun Start at 9 a.m.
START at Clarion University Memorial Stadium;
FINISH at Page Street behind Egbert and Moore Halls
Open to Clarion University alumni, students, and the community
All proceeds benefit the Clarion University
Alumni Association Scholarship
Register online at alumniandfriends.cuf-inc.org/events
Questions: Call 814-393-2572 or Email alumni@clarion.edu
Clarion university
magazine
49
nonprofit org.
u.s. postage
paid
permit no. 2
clarion, pa
840 Wood Street
Clarion, PA 16214-1232
www.clarion.edu
June 3-5
2016
––––––––––
a few of the highlights
–––––––––––
All Alumni Reunion Banquet Honoring Class of 1966 • Distinguished Awards
Alum-Nite • Alumni-Fest Picnic • and New Blue and Gold Color Run
For more information and schedule of events, visit www.clarion.edu/alumniweekend.
For questions regarding alumni weekend, call the Alumni Relations Office at 814-393-2572.