Industrial Arts Alum on a Roll

OsAlumni Association of the Swtate University of Newe York at Osweggo n Vol. 39, No.o 3 n SUMMER 2013

Industrial Arts Alum on a Roll George Wurtz III ’78 Manufactures Success with Energy, Education and Excellence PLUS n Reunion ’13 Reflections n Sheldon Hall Restored in Time for Centennial n Journalist Writes of Newtown Recovery

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8 a c S JUNE 5-8 Come to our Oswego family reunion!

More than 900 alumni returned this year for Oswego’s Reunion. They celebrated their alma mater with good friends, great memories and some of the best sunsets in the world. Let’s make next summer’s party even bigger! Join your friends and classmates at Reunion 2014! Everyone is welcome, but special events are planned for these milestone classes and groups:

70th – 1944 Delta Chi Omega/TKE 65th – 1949 Delta Kappa Kappa 60th – 1954 Omega Delta Phi 55th – 1959 Phi Lambda Phi 55th Anniversary To plan a mini-reunion for your group or 50th – 1964 organization, please let us know by Oct. 15. 45th – 1969 Phi Sigma Phi Pi Delta Chi Sign up to be a Reunion Class or Group 40th – 1974 #oswegoreunion Volunteer! 30th – 1983, 1984, 1985 Psi Phi Gamma It’s a great opportunity to 25th – 1989 Sigma Gamma l Network with classmates 10th – 2004 Theta Chi Rho www.facebook.com/ l Plan the weekend’s activities 5th – 2008, 2009, 2010 Zeta Chi Zeta oswegoalumni 45th Anniversary l Have fun! Alpha Sigma Chi Please contact the Alumni Office or sign up online Alpha Delta Eta by Oct. 1, 2013, to join our volunteer team. Beta Tau Epsilon Reunion Hotline: 315-312-5559 75th Anniversary E-mail: [email protected] Watch for registration materials in the mail this spring! If you are interested in being part of the Check the website for more groups and Reunion 2014 planning committee, please for the most up-to-date information: contact us at (315) 312-2258 or email us at alumni.oswego.edu/reunion [email protected]. summer 2013

Alumni Association of the State University of New York at Oswego OsOswweeggoo Vol. 39, No. 3

Towel and Tissue Titan 18 George Wurtz III ’78 has rescued floundering businesses and rebuilt them into thriving industries that produce quality prod- 6 ucts, boost regional employment and enhance community life. Sheldon Hall Restoration 23 On the National Historic Registry, Sheldon Hall has been restored to its original splendor in time for its 100th anniversary. The first classes were held in Sheldon in 1913. Oswego’s Endowment 28 The Art and Science of Success How Newtown Heals 31 Journalist Matthew Sturdevant ’97 chronicles stories of Newtown, Conn., showing how a community moves toward healing after unprecedented grief. 23 National Book Award Winning Author 48 Alice McDermott ’75, who was inducted into the New York State Writers Hall of Fame in June, shares an excerpt from her new work, Someone: A Novel.

PLUS 39 Campus Currents 3 Calendar 5 Sports 14 Class Notes 35 Weddings 44 In Memoriam 45

On the Co ver: George Wurtz III ’78 stands in his Soundview Paper manufacturing plant in Elmwood Park, N.J. Photograph 328 by Robert Mescavage. from the President’s Desk Oswego Alumni Magazine Elizabeth Locke Oberst Tyler J. Edic ’13 Our college of their alma mater and their visions of Publisher Denise Owen Harrigan Linda Loomis ’90 M ’97 Brittany Hoffmann ’14 and the accom - what the college might become as new Managing Editor Shane M. Liebler Alice McDermott ’75 plished and diverse challenges and opportunities arise. Jim Russell ’83 Kaitlin Provost ‘12 members of our Reunion guests spoke of their pride Staff Photographer Jeff Rea ’71 SUNY Oswego in the campus: the beauty of the grounds, Kiefer Creative Michele Reed Graphic Design Contributing Writers family build on the upkeep of buildings, and stunning new Lisa Potter Robert J. Clark ’78 past in intriguing structures, including the Richard S. Memorials Bob Mescavage Abraham Nieves ’13 Brittany Hoffmann ’14 ways, even as we Shineman Center for Science, Engineering Chuck Perkins Intern move boldly into and Innovation. Many cited the impor- Contributing President Julie Harrison Blissert Photographers Deborah F. Stanley the future. tance of melding past, present and future Adele Burk A case in point as we develop and renew our campus. is George Wurtz ’78, who has used his Nowhere is this more evident than The Oswego Alumni Association, Inc. degree in what we used to call indus- in the renovation of the original campus Board of Directors trial arts to develop a career in paper building, Sheldon Hall. We completed Keith Chamberlain ’87 Maureen Flynn ’04 manufacturing that places him among the exterior renovation just in time for the President Ana Rodriguez King ’94 Nancy Smith Salisbury ’93 Don Levine ’78 the leading CEOs in that industry. building’s centennial. Sheldon Hall repre- First Vice President Steve Messina ’91 Josh Miller ’08 When I visited his Soundview Paper sents the heart of everything we hold dear Donna Goldsmith ’82 Cathleen Richards ’09 Company, George led me on a tour of the about SUNY Oswego. Its magic stirs me, as Second Vice President Mark Salmon ’93 Elizabeth Locke Oberst Dan Scaia ’68 Elmwood Park, N.J., plant and explained I know it does so many others. I remember Executive Director Lisa Marceau Schnorr ’87 the paper production process. Learning myself as a young faculty member teaching Tim Barnhart ’02 *William Schreiner ’92 about his business plans, watching the there at the start of my Oswego journey. Marc Beck ’93 *Jennifer Shropshire ’86 Christopher Jeffrey Sorensen ’92 giant machines in the factory, hearing When we walk its halls, we feel the pulse Brandolino ’96 Christie Torruella how he applied the skills and concepts of academic endeavors, hear the voices of Paul Brennan ’93 Smith ’08 Michael Byrne ’79 **Deborah F. Stanley he learned as an undergraduate, I real- professors and students in classes and see, Mike Caldwell ’70 Amy Vanderlyke ’01 ized that for him, as for thousands of in our mind’s eye, the performances of Lisa Court ’83 Koren Vaughan ’95 *John Daken ’66 Rick Yacobush ’77 our alumni, the foundation for success choruses, Blackfriars, and various ensem- **Kerry Casey Dorsey ’81 Thomas Yates ’89 was forged at SUNY Oswego. His bles through the years. Here, the legacy Jerry Esposito ’70 * At large ** Ex officio remarkable career, his commitment of our founder, Edward Austin Sheldon, to the increasingly urgent demand for has taken root and flourished, growing to State University of New York at Oswego Deborah F. Stanley Nicholas Lyons environmental sustainability, and his become the comprehensive community of President Vice President for loyalty to Oswego all stem from his learning that is revered today. Lorrie Clemo Administration and Finance experiences on campus in the 1970s, We —members of a community with Provost and Vice President Kerry Casey Dorsey ’81 for Academic Affairs Vice President for studying in a program founded in 1902. a rich heritage and a certain future — have Development and George and his wife, Nancy, were ample cause to celebrate. Alumni Relations among the nearly 1,000 alumni who came Office of Alumni and Parent Relations “home” to Reunion 2013 to connect with King Alumni Hall, SUNY Oswego, Oswego, NY 13126 friends, classmates, professors and events Phone: 315-312-2258 Fax: 315-312-5570 from their past. As always, I was privi- Email: [email protected] leged to hear our graduates’ memories Website: alumni.oswego.edu facebook.com/oswegoalumni @oswegoalumni and #oswegochat

hree former editors of OSWEGO who share a love for the written word Oswego is published three times a year by the Acontribute Trioto this issue. Their ofand deepEditors feelings for the people of SUNY T Oswego Alumni Association Inc., King Alumni Hall, State aggregate experience is 34 years, starting Oswego—students, staff, faculty, adminis- University of New York at Oswego, Oswego, NY 13126. It is distributed free of charge to alumni, friends, faculty, in 1979, when Denise Owen Harrigan trators and, especially, alumni and friends. staff and families of current students, with support from began her 17-year run. Linda Loomis ’90 Their thoughts on collaborating The Fund for Oswego. Printed August 2013. M ’97 started in 1995, with Michele Reed on this issue follow on page 11: Oswego alumni magazine is printed on recycled paper following in 2001. They are writer-editors continued on page 11 with inks that are non-toxic, contain no heavy metals, and are composed of bio-derived renewable resources ranging from 25-40% (as a percentage of total ink weight).

Oswego l Summer 2013 2 campus Currents

SUNY Oswego Achieves National Distinction for Community Service UNY Oswego has been named to the Oswego City School District, providing S2013 President’s Higher Education Com- “Community service twice-weekly homework support, compan- munity Service Honor Roll with Distinc- ionship and a willing ear with the goal of tion, one of only two SUNY campuses to has involved me with reducing the high school dropout rate. achieve the national designation this year. Truesdail is a vocational teacher It is the third consecutive year the the Oswego commu- preparation major who plans to student Corporation for National and Community teach in the fall. “Community service has Service has accorded the “with Distinc- nity. . . . I’ve been able involved me with the Oswego community. tion” title to Oswego, though the college It has helped my personal growth. I’ve has been on the honor roll for community to work with students, been able to work with students, some service since its inception in 2006. with disabilities, and it has really taught “It’s a prestigious honor,” said Alyssa some with disabilities, me a lot.” In fall 2011, in the wake of Amyotte, the college’s coordinator for Hurricane Irene, Tucker Sholtes ’15 service learning and community service. and it has really taught began a series of trips to his hometown of Colleges chosen for the list “reflect the Binghamton with friends and colleagues values of exemplary community service me a lot.” in the School of Business to rip out and achieve meaningful outcomes in their —Ben Truesdail ’13 insulation, carpet and floorboards soaked communities,” wrote the Corporation by the flooded Susquehanna River. for National and Community Service. tion for embedding community service “Alyssa helped me get everything Amyotte said SUNY Oswego—which throughout the institution—totaled going,” Sholtes said. The then-freshman has received the Carnegie Foundation’s 44,000 hours of service among at made presentations across campus Community Engagement Classifica- least 1,500 students in 2011-12. and applied for grants that eventually Colleges may totaled about $3,000 by last spring to p r

ov i d e highlight three major purchase swing sets for flood-ravaged projects in their families. He made four trips to Bing- applications. For hamton with groups ranging from the year 2011-2012, 15 to 100 SUNY Oswego students SUNY Oswego and staff, Habitat for Humanity submitted its Mentor- volunteers and high school friends. Scholar program; a Sholtes said he has gone from direc- Binghamton flood tionless high school student to officer in relief project, and two School of Business organizations, a the college’s Alterna- seat on his residence hall’s advisory board tive Break program and a job in the service learning office. for volunteerism The 2013 President’s Honor Roll for around the country Higher Education Community Service and abroad. names 690 colleges and universities nationwide; in New York, Syracuse Personal University, SUNY Binghamton and growth SUNY Albany are among those on Ben Truesdail ’13 the list. Of the total, 113 received the volunteered six to “with Distinction” designation, with nine hours a week as Cortland joining Oswego as the only Students work with Operation Southern Comfort during the site coordinator for campuses so honored in SUNY. l Alternative Spring Break program in New Orleans in January 2013. Mentor-Scholar, which — Jeff Rea ’71 From left, LeAnne St. Gelais ’07, Shauna Brunea ’16, Julia Nuzzo pairs SUNY Oswego ’14, Joan Flower (Operation Southern Comfort volunteer), Kelsey Magraw ’14 and Heather Eldridge ’16 work at the St. Bernard students with middle- Parish scraping, sanding, finishing and painting Miss Sue’s house. school students in the

3 Oswego l Summer 2013 campus Currents

SUNY Oswego Repeats SUNY Oswego-ESF on List of ‘Best Value Colleges’ Pact Encourages The Princeton Review and USA nized as a ‘Best Value’ means a lot to our Today have named SUNY Oswego to their students and their families.” Teacher Training 2013 list of 150 “best value” colleges According to the Princeton and universities in the nation. Review, it selected “Best Value in Sciences The list of 75 public Colleges” based on institu- SUNY Oswego President Deborah and 75 private institutions tional data and student F. Stanley and SUNY College of appears in the book “The opinion surveys collect- Environmental Science and Forestry Best Value Colleges: ed from 650 colleges President Cornelius B. Murphy Jr. have 2013 Edition,” released and universities that it signed an agreement that enables ESF grad- Feb. 5 by Random regards as the nation’s uates who fulfill a prescribed curriculum to House and Princeton academically best enter a graduate-level initial teacher certifi- Review, as well as on undergraduate institu- cation master’s degree program at Oswego. USA Today’s website at tions. Criteria included Barbara Garii, associate dean of SUNY http://bestvaluecolleges. the quality of academ- Oswego’s School of Education, called it a usatoday.com. ics, cost of attendance, “win-win situation. Both colleges are part “Providing a high- financial aid, percentage of of the SUNY system and both are excellent quality education, as well graduating seniors who bor- schools.” as preparing undergraduates for the rowed from any loan program and Garii said discussions started when job market and a life of continued learn- the average dollar amount of debt those Oswego faculty recognized that SUNY ing, are paramount at Oswego,” Princeton students had at graduation. ESF has a pool of undergraduates suited Review states in the book’s profile of Oswego is one of 18 New York colleges to participate in the Oswego Residency SUNY Oswego. on the list, including seven SUNY institu- Initiative for Teacher Excellence program, a It cites the Oswego Guarantee, which tions: four of the public university system’s program that will immerse teacher trainees promises undergraduates their on-campus doctoral-granting campuses and two other in nine high-need school districts in Oswego room and board costs will not increase master’s-level colleges like Oswego— County, Syracuse and New York City. SUNY during their four years of study. The profile Geneseo and Purchase. Oswego is in the midst of the pilot program, praises the college for its “picturesque nat- The Princeton Review is a which is funded by a $1.73 million Race to ural setting” along with its “strong honors Massachusetts-based education services the Top grant through the state Education program,” “excellent study-abroad options,” company known for its college rankings. Department. and “wonderful connection to alumni” who SUNY Oswego has appeared in every “While the impetus was the collabora- help students find their way into careers. edition of the company’s “The Best tion with O-RITE, it now extends to existing “We are delighted once again to be Northeastern Colleges,” and Oswego’s adolescence education biology and chem- recognized by the Princeton Review,” said School of Business appears each year in its istry and the childhood education science Dan Griffin ’92 M ’00, interim director of “Best Business Schools.” l concentration MST programs in curriculum admissions at Oswego. “Particularly during — Julie Blissert and instruction,” Garii said. l these difficult economic times, to be recog- — Office of Public Affairs SUNY Oswego Ranks High on U.S. News List of Online MBA Programs

UNY Oswego’s online MBA ranks ment, admissions selectivity and peer ranked No. 1. New York has five institu- S26th best among comparable reputation. Oswego’s ranking puts it in tions in the top 50. In addition to Oswego, degree programs at more than 200 the top 12 percent nationally of the 213 the first comprehensive college in the colleges and universities nationwide, schools with online master’s of business SUNY system to offer an MBA, starting according to U.S. News’ 2014 “Best Online administration programs responding in 1997, they are Clarkson University, Graduate Business Programs” rankings. to the U.S. News questionnaire. Marist College, Syracuse University and The U.S. News survey weighed U.S. News published numerical rank- Rochester Institute of Technology. l faculty credentials and training, student ings for the top 148 institutions on the list. services and technology, student engage- Washington State University’s program

Oswego l Summer 2013 4 campus Currents Ji m ell ’83Russ ell Events Visit alumni.oswego.edu for complete listing.

August 30 Green and Gold Day* September 15 Alumni Buffalo Bills Game and Tailgate* September 19 GOLD Welcome to the City Party NYC* September 20-22 Baseball Alumni Reunion Weekend* September 27-28 Soccer Alumni Reunion Weekend* September 27-29 Return to Oz IV Alumni of Color Reunion* October 3 Ribbon Cutting of Rice Creek Field Station October 4 Dedication of the Richard S. Shineman Center for Science, Engineering and Innovation October 4 Oswego Alumni Board of Directors SUNY Oswego Expands Relationship Meeting* October 4 Oswego College Foundation Board With Zhejiang University of Directors Meeting** SUNY Oswego President Deborah F. Stanley and Zhejiang Sci-Tech October 5 Communication Studies Alumni University Chairman Fei Junqing sign an agreement to jointly deliver bachelor’s Dinner* degrees to Chinese students in three business-related majors: business administration, human resource management and marketing. The two institutions’ relationship began in 2007, and October 10-11 School of Business Alumni more than 60 students from the Chinese university have since studied at Oswego. The degree Symposium* articulation agreement outlines degree programs in which students study for two years at November 2 Oswego Athletic Hall of Fame ZSTU then transfer to Oswego for the final two years of study said Richard Skolnik, dean of Inductions* the School of Business. l November 6 Dr. Lewis B. O’Donnell Media Summit** MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW: Find the Founder! June 5-8, 2014 Reunion 2014 * Alumni and Parent Relations, 315-312-2258 N THE SPRING 2013 ISSUE, the Sheldon statue can be found in the Iupper-left corner of the image with the car on page 23. Grand prize winner of a ** University Development, 315-312-3003 College Store gift certificate and Sheldon Hall print is Cynthia Pieklik Fryer ’75. Winning Sheldon Hall prints are Barbara Brown McCormack ’44, Esther Barber ’57, William Weaver ’57, Sheila Lee ’66 and Rebecca Leary ’04. Check Out Our A tiny replica of the Sheldon statue pictured here is hidden somewhere New Website! in this issue. Find the Founder and send us a letter with the location Bookmark Our New and page number, your name, class year and address. We will draw one Homepage! entry at random from all the correct answers and the winner will receive a $25 gift certificate to the College Store and a print of Sheldon Hall. The next five entries drawn will receive Sheldon Hall prints. Send your alumni.oswego.edu entry to Find the Founder, King Alumni Hall, 300 Washington Blvd., Oswego, NY 13126. Entries must be postmarked by Oct. 1. l

5 Oswego l Summer 2013 campus Currents

Ji m for students to work on their resumes and ell ’83Russ ell submit them for critique. “Once they’re done with the resume, they can hit the review button and have it sent to Compass staff for feedback,” Morris said. The mock-interview toolset enables students and alumni to create a video where they respond to interview questions, as many as 20 per interview. Once the mock interview is complete, students can upload and send the video to Compass staff for feedback. “With this software, students can do a mock interview anytime, anywhere, and have feedback in a few days,” Morris said. Users also have the option of spoken-only or written interviews.

Gary Morris ’88, director of the Compass and of Career Services, assists Megan Dignan ’16, Alumni benefit from free use a graphic design major, with Optimal Resume’s online interviewer in the Compass. Optimal Resume can help alumni tailor resumes to different jobs, provide interviewing practice, organize and conduct searches and develop a personal brand New Career-oriented online. Morris said the new software will help Software to Aid Alumni, alumni job-searching via a multifaceted interface used by employers seeking to better Students, Faculty and Staff screen candidates. Optimal Resume has a range of other job-search tools, among them areer Services recently launched “The skills assessment portion can help profile creation, skills assessment and mock C Optimal Resume, an online suite you take any experience, say a job working interviews. with features that allow users to quick- at Freshens in the Campus Center, and “It can be accessed for free from ly create cover letters, tailor resumes make it highlight the skills you got from anywhere,” Morris said. “SUNY Oswego to different jobs, practice interview- that job,” Carnavale said. students and alumni all can have access to ing and organize and conduct searches. Users can tailor resumes to fit the our services. If someone had a job interview Gary Morris ’88, director of the target industry. “The software comes with in Switzerland and wanted some practice Compass student success center as well a range of different resume and cover letter with interview questions, they could just as its Career Services unit, said the new templates that are designed for a certain upload a video and we could send feedback software will help SUNY Oswego students job,” Carnavale said. “If you are trying to in 24 to 48 hours.” and alumni prepare for searching via a get into a graduate business school, there’s Alumni can use the suite to examine the multifaceted interface used by more than a template for that type of resume.” skills they have acquired and identify “what 600 colleges and universities nationwide. Carnavale said she uses the software to specific skills different jobs require and how Optimal Resume has a range of job-search prepare resumes for her own job search, as they can tailor their resumes to reflect those tools, from skills assessment to mock well as to help other students as a Compass skills,” Morris said. interviews. Navigator. Career Services will critique alumni “Optimal Resume helps users realize “There are so many features to it,” resumes on a time-available basis, he said. their value and what they have to offer,” Carnavale said. “Students can really do a Optimal Resume also offers users the including credentials they may not have lot on their own using this software.” opportunity to create a website with resumes even realized they had, Morris said. and portfolios of their work. l Christina Carnavale ’13, a SUNY Feedback available — Office of Public Affairs Oswego senior majoring in human resource Other Optimal Resume features include management, agreed. the option of quick feedback anywhere at any time. Online availability makes it easy

Oswego l Summer 2013 6 campus Currents

Program Eases Transition Alumna Placed from ‘Backpack to Briefcase’ Oswego on program sponsored by the Oswego Alumni Association and Career AServices Office helps students make the sometimes intimidating transition Leading Edge of from college to career. Recruiters, local experts, and Oswego alumni presented workshops to help more than 100 students forge a pathway to success. LinkedIn Networking Keynote speaker Kevin Sutherland ’05, a member of the Gradu- ates Of the Last Decade Leadership Council, suggested students take every opportunity to network and get their résumé out to as many In addition to the array of profes- people as possible, including alumni. sional development services the SUNY Oswego A b r

’13 Nie v e s aham “We are family, this is it, Oswego!” Sutherland Office of Career Services offers, alumni can said. Sutherland is the budget coordinator for Tomp- find networking opportunities in a 4,500- member LinkedIn group. kins County, where he has worked for three years. The discussion forum has fostered connec- Interviewing is nothing to sweat about as long tions over the past five years, with alumni wax- as you’re prepared, explained personnel coor- ing nostalgic about favorite memories or pursu- dinator for Maxim Healthcare Services, Renee ing job and networking opportunities. Exclusive Abstender Marchak ’94. Marchak said she to Oswego alumni, the group establishes a great has an array of experiences with the interview Renee Abstender base for networking, founder and moderator Marchak ’94, personnel process and applies the knowledge she gained at Maureen O’Donnell Sanchez ’87 said. coordinator for Maxim Oswego when interviewing future employees. “[We talk] about everything from sunsets Healthcare Services, “Oswego did so much for me,” Marchak said. and the opening of the Stands to jobs … mem- shared interviewing advice Students stood wall-to-wall to hear Tim bers try to help each other organically,” Sanchez with students at the Barnhart ’02, a member of the Oswego Alumni said. “I have posted many jobs over the years, Backpack to Briefcase and I hope that has opened the door for others conference last spring. Association Board of Directors, explain with to feel comfortable doing the same.” honesty and realism about saving money and The group includes a board of job opportuni- understanding financial planning following gradu- ties, a valuable resource that includes member ation. “As far as the education that you get, and the work ethic I was taught, postings from across their networks. I wouldn’t take another school over this school,” Barnhart said of Oswego. “Whenever friends at various companies are Barnhart explained

looking, I post the positions in the jobs discus- to students how to begin A b r sions section,” Sanchez said. “I’d encourage any saving money, manage ’13 Nie v e s aham member to do the same — helping out Oswego student loans, and still alums, letting them see through their eyes what have a comfortable you see through yours.” lifestyle after graduation. Internship- and job-seeking Oswego students often interact too, giving members an While attending Oswego, opportunity to lend a hand and make connec- Barnhart interned with tions with the newest or soon-to-be graduates. Northwestern Mutual, It’s not uncommon to see impromptu local the company where he is alumni gatherings organized there as well. now a managing director. “It’s as strong as the members make it,” He said that without Sanchez said. “The more you interact and taking the internship with engage, the more you stand to get out of the Northwestern Mutual group. I would absolutely encourage any of

and exploring his career p r

Oswego’s 77,000 alums to join.” ov i d e options in college, he Tim Barnhart ’02 of Drop in at www.linkd.in/oswegoalumni would have never found Northwestern Mutual and join the conversation, search for or post jobs his dream job. l shared advice about or simply reconnect with other alumni. l “Financial Management —Shane M. Liebler — Brittany and Surviving after Hoffmann ’14 Graduation” during the Backpack to Briefcase conference.

7 Oswego l Summer 2013 campus Currents Ji m ell ’83Russ ell Ji m ell ’83Russ ell

Members of the Class of 1988 celebrated their 25th reunion at the Silver Anniversary Reception at Shady Shore. Pictured from left: front row — D. Elizabeth Land, Zirrus Hapeman VanDevere, Deirdre Hurson Schmitt, Susan Battaglini Carulli, Nancy Puskuldjian, Dan Coleman, Jim Triandiflou and President Deborah F. Stanley; second row — Tom Niles, Dianne Geppert Restuccio, Lisa Mazzone McDougal, Laura Light Stisser, and Michael Stisser; third row — Richard Kelner, Cheryl Rox Wallace, Kelly Caci, Paula Spector Tantillo, Allison Boldt, Dresden Engle Olcott, Brenda Zawalski Barlow, Elaine Caroli Polak, Kathy O’Reilly Kelner, and Shawn Doyle. Ji m ell ’83Russ ell

Oswego l Summer 2013 8 Ji m ell ’83Russ ell M attD am i ano

These friends from AEX sorority marveled at the changes on campus since they were students. From left, Jennifer Sammarco ’92, Lori Purner-Bleibtrey ’94, Paula Licata Hickey ’92 and Chrissy Hines McGlauflin ’93. j e nn i f er Br T ler J. y ler Ed i od eri ‘13 c ck LouDiGe‘63sa re M attD am i ano Ji m

Class of 1977 members Janet ’83Russ ell Krause, Zoology major, Felicia Telsey, Art and Psychology, and Bruce Jordan, Business Administration, recalled the decade of the ’70s in their fashion choices and dance style at the Saturday night dinner. T ler J. y ler M attD Ed i am i ano ’13 c M attD am i ano

9 Oswego l Summer 2013 campus Currents

Education Lebanon-Oswego Class Partnership Professor Springs COIL Forward Students in Susan They planned improvements for with other people from to Assist Coultrap-McQuin’s the next stage of the partner- another culture who are “Women, the Workplace and ship and worked on shared second-language speakers.” in Brazilian the Law” class interacted online research projects. Issa also COIL, a SUNY-wide ini- with students in Lebanon in presented at the Ernst & Young tiative headquartered in the the fall ’12 semester as part of Lecture Series. system’s Global Center in New State’s School the SUNY-wide Collaborative “The international per- York City, advocates cross- Online International Learning spective is the real growth cultural learning through class- Development experience. in the COIL experience,” room partnerships. Oswego Ji m Ina Pfeifer Issa, the Coultrap-McQuin told faculty has approximately 11 other

ell ’83Russ ell r. Alfred teacher of a Lebanese course in and staff at a session in the COIL courses launching or in Frederick, D international management, vis- college’s Center for Excellence development across disciplines distinguished ited SUNY Oswego this spring in Learning and Teaching. “It’s ranging from human-computer service professor to help Coultrap-McQuin share important to learn content, but interaction to broadcasting, in SUNY Oswego’s lessons they learned in the col- the other kind of learning is fig- from education to physics. l School of Educa- lege’s first COIL experience. uring out how to communicate — Jeff Rea ’71 tion, is a visiting professor and scholar in residence at the State University of Piaui in Brazil College’s New X-ray Device to Probe at the invitation of the State Secretariat of Education of Archeological Samples Piaui and the State University Ji m of Piaui. Frederick said he nalyzing sharp-force trauma, studying ’83Russ ell would continue his cross- Aceramic artifacts disinterred after centu- cultural work on culturally ries, disclosing the trace elements in soils—SUNY relevant teaching there over Oswego forensic anthropologist Kathleen Blake the next several summers. can think of many uses for portable X-ray equip- As creator and coor- ment purchased with a National Park Service grant. dinator of the African and The new instrument will enable faculty and Brazilian Academic and student researchers to study samples in detail Cultural Exchange Initiative without liquefying, pulverizing or otherwise at Oswego, he has coordinated destroying them. “This device is widely used in and conducted research archeological and museum studies,” Blake said. Kathleen Blake of SUNY Oswego’s anthropology and training in Benin and Douglas Pippin, an assistant professor of department displays a new low-dose device that Brazil aimed at improving anthropology and an archeologist, received the uses X-ray fluorescence technology to analyze the academic achievement of $49,500 grant with colleagues Paul Tomascak elements in archeological samples. The instrument, students in primary and of the earth sciences faculty and Blake. obtained via a $49,500 National Park Service secondary schools. He taught grant, can analyze the elements and their propor- The device came with a pump to create tions in a sample without destroying it. at the Federal University a vacuum, a small on-board computer for of Santa Maria for seven work in the field, a tripod and other attach- years before he joined ments. It uses X-ray fluorescence to analyze the SUNY Oswego in 1985. l elements and their proportions in a sample. tion Act. Blake, a visiting assistant professor, is The researchers won the grant in conjunc- on the research team for the NAGPRA project. tion with work the anthropology department is “This will be so helpful to student projects, doing cataloging 160,000 Native American and too,” she said. “For example, what happens after other artifacts from archeological sites around the burial of a deer’s leg? What can it tell us about the state. SUNY Oswego earlier received two grants amount of copper laid down by the blade that totaling $1.5 million for work under the 1990 cut the bone? What kind of blade was it?” l Native American Graves Protection and Repatria- —Jeff Rea ’71

Oswego l Summer 2013 10 campus Currents

Oswego College Foundation New Board Members

ose Cardamone Crane ’81 enior Vice President lobal Head of Rrejoined the Oswego College Sof Institutional GInvestor Relations Foundation Board of Directors Sales at ABN AMRO and Marketing at Perry on July 1 for a three-year term. Clearing Chicago LLC, Capital in New York City Crane has more than Stephen Doran ’82 Doreen Mochrie ’85 30 years of experience in began a three-year term began a three-year term commercialization and business on the Oswego College on the Oswego College operations, primarily in the pharmaceutical Foundation Board of Directors on July 1. Foundation Board of Directors on July 1. and biotechnology industries. She is a Doran has been actively involved at With more than 25 years experience in venture partner at Apple Tree Partners Oswego for many years, serving on the investment relations, she is also a member of and head of commercialization for Apple Alumni Association Board of Directors several professional organizations, including Tree Pharmaceuticals. She previously as an officer and as the Alumni Associa- the Association of Investment Management served on the board from 2005 to 2012, is tion representative to the Oswego College Sales Executives and 100 Women in Hedge a former member of the School of Busi- Foundation Investment Committee and Funds. Most recently, Mochrie was the 2013 ness Advisory Board and has participated the Reunion Task Force in 2007-08. chapter inductee of Beta Gamma Sigma, in the Alumni-in-Residence program. He is also involved in the AIR and the premier international honor society of While studying communication at ASK programs and is an active participant AACSB accredited business programs. Oswego, Crane worked for The Oswegonian with the School of Business Symposium. Mochrie studied applied mathematics and was a Resident Assistant. She enjoys As a student at Oswego, Doran studied and economics as a student at Oswego being involved at her alma mater and most business administration, was the men’s and worked in the Continuing Educa- recently returned to campus in April 2013 lacrosse captain in 1982, and participated tion office. Through the New York City as the keynote speaker for the Honors in the alumni/mentor program. Career Connections program, she recently Convocation. Crane is a staunch advocate Doran frequents Oswego alumni hosted SUNY Oswego business students. for STEM education and has supported events in New York City, where he has been Together with her husband, Chris STEM career development through the professionally located throughout his career. Tuohy ’81, she maintains close ties with Possibility Scholarship program together many Oswego alumni friends. l with her late husband Doug Crane ’81. —Kaitlin Provost ’12

A Trio of Editors continued from page 2 Denise Owen Harrigan: (Editor 1979 – 1995) Oswego cast a powerful spell over me when I was hired as alumni what I enjoy: listening to and telling stories of those whose lives editor in 1979. I attributed my infatuation to lake effect: the authenticate our mission as a learning community, validate magical impact of sparkling Lake Ontario on the horizon. I real- the integrity of our degrees, and substantiate the effectiveness ized, however, that the college’s true magic lies in its close-knit, yet of our programs. I treasure the people I have been privileged far-flung community. to know and write about. For it is through stories that we are In my privileged role as family historian to a fascinating, connected as one accomplished, multi-faceted Oswego family. fun-loving, intensely loyal clan, I travelled from coast to coast to Michele Reed: (Editor 2001-2013) chronicle the accomplishments of high-profile Oswego alumni. In nearly three decades on campus —16 years at the Public I covered campus icons who helped generations of students take Affairs Office and a dozen more in King and Sheldon Halls flight. I took part in treasured traditions —Torchlight ceremo- as alumni editor—I’ve been blessed to share the secret of nies and reunions —and came to feel like one of the family. what makes Oswego so special: its incredible people. It’s been 17 years since my career led me away from Oswego. I’ve been touched by your Oswego generosity, sharing your But whenever I reconnect with the college or cross paths with successes and sorrows, your heartbreak and happiness, your Oswego alumni, I am enveloped by memories as warm and passions and your Oswego pride. You are our living history. Your vibrant as an Oswego sunset. memories burn bright, and those of us entrusted with sharing Linda Loomis ’90 M ’97: (Editor 1995 – 2000) them delight in passing on that torch to future generations. Serving as editor never felt like a job; arriving at beautiful King I don’t know where retirement will take me. But I will Alumni Hall never felt like going to work. I was just doing carry a little bit of Oswego with me forever in my heart. l

11 Oswego l Summer 2013 campus Currents

Alumni Share Insights at Leadership Conference T tudents gained insight from surprisingly similar to working in New York State J. y ler

SOswego alumni during the third an embassy,” Weiller said. “You Governor’s office. Ed i annual Future Oswego Leaders work in close quarters with the Wallace spoke ’13 c Conference March 8 and 9. same people night and day.” of hard work and This event, organized by Omicron Jackie Maguire ’13, a dual major in success at a young Delta Kappa and co-sponsored by adolescent education and mathematics, age. “It’s not just the Oswego Alumni Association, said of the conference, “I liked how about getting the provided students the opportunity to diverse the speakers were — each one job,” Wallace said. network with alumni professionals. came from different backgrounds.” “It’s about hitting Matt Weiller ’84 delivered the Following the luncheon, the ground at 100 keynote address in the Campus Center. breakout sessions were hosted percent once you Weiller, a foreign service officer by Weiller, Saleem Cheeks ’01, have landed it.” for the U.S. Department of State, management supervisor of public Wallace studied history has served as a U.S. diplomat since affairs for Eric Mower & Associates, and political development as a 1991, working both in Washington and Sara Wallace M ’10, executive graduate student at Oswego. and embassies around the world. team member for DestinyUSA. Wallace emphasized setting A German major and Russian A political science graduate, challenging personal goals, “Don’t minor at SUNY Oswego, Weiller served Cheeks credits his role as president settle for anything less; tell yourself, as a resident assistant in Funnelle Hall. of the Student Association as a factor ‘Yes I can, and I will do this.’” l “Being a resident assistant is that landed him his first job with the —Tyler J. Edic ’13 A b r ’13 Nie v e s aham ‘Game of Thrones’ Co-creator Speaks on Campus David Benioff, author of the 2012-13 Oswego Reading Initiative selection “City of Thieves” and co-creator of “Game of Thrones,” made a public appearance April 24 in SUNY Oswego’s Campus Center arena. He also met in the afternoon for a Q & A with students in the Creative Writing and English majors. Benioff wrote “City of Thieves,” a coming-of-age story that was mentioned in the New York Times as having “an ingenious plot,” based on events in St. Petersburg during World War II. l Ji m ell ’83Russ ell

Voices of Diversity

UNY Oswego graduate and Emmy award-winning news anchor SKendis Gibson ’94 shared his insight on life after Oswego for the “Voices of Diversity” program April 19. His visit was part of the Alumni-In-Residence, or A.I.R., program sponsored by the Oswego Alumni Association and supported by The Fund for Oswego. Voices of Diversity promotes awareness of minorities in the media industry and encourages diversity in all aspects of the media. l

Oswego l Summer 2013 12 campus Currents

Romney Project Boosts Athletes’ Readiness

olden Romney Field Ji m ell ’83Russ ell GHouse reopened to limited spring practices as work wrapped up on a $2 million project to breathe new athletic life into the college’s former ice hockey home. “It’s a transformation,” said Nicholas Lyons, vice president for administration and finance. Men’s and women’s spring sports teams—from lacrosse to track and field, from baseball to softball—worked out on the state-of-the-art, dual-surface flooring, illuminated by new energy-efficient lighting. “Providing a top-notch practice facility for many Thanks to a $2 million in revitalizing upgrades, Golden Romney Field House has reopened as the home different sports of practices for men’s and women’s sports teams in track and field, lacrosse, baseball, softball, tennis, field hockey and soccer, as well as wintertime men’s and women’s indoor track and field. has been the installations for the long-jump practice and pitcher-catcher all about curb appeal and central goal for pit, the pole vault and more. workouts at the same time. feeling good about where There is a smooth transi- It’s an amazing building. you are spending your time. the project.” tion from the track to the It’s really designed to be Bob Lloyd ’81 M’89 of — Nicholas Lyons, FieldTurf infield, a surface a state-of-the-art, multi- the college’s Facilities Design Vice President for designed for safety and endur- purpose practice facility. and Construction department Administration and Finance ance. The infield is marked “Providing a top-notch is the Romney renovation off for four tennis courts and, practice facility for many project coordinator with The field house opened with the addition of temporary different sports has been the general contractor Diamond in 1963 as the first ice rink lines, can be available for field central goal for the project,” & Thiel Construction Inc., in the SUNY system, serving events and lacrosse and soccer Lyons said, in part because the working from the Clough as the college’s ice hockey practices. From the ceiling track and the turf field are not Harbor Associates design. The home for more than 40 years hangs netting that can bisect regulation size and the field campus has, for the money, until the 2006-07 season. the infield so that side-by-side house is no longer intended unveiled a gem, he said. Now, the Athletic Depart- practices can take place. for NCAA competition. “I think we got a lot ment points with pride to Then there’s the ceiling- The impact of the Romney of bang for our buck,” the Rekortan M99 synthetic mounted, electrically lowered revitalization on Oswego’s Lloyd said. “The place was track surface: four lanes of baseball “cage,” a netted, ability to recruit Division III really transformed into a new 200-meter track over an tunnel-like structure, subdi- student-athletes for outdoor nice, usable facility.” l elastic layer, plus outer-corner vided to accommodate batting sports is significant. It’s —Jeff Rea ’71

13 Oswego l Summer 2013 campus Currents SSppoortsrts [Winter 2013 Sports Round-Up]

Men’s Basketball chuck 18-9 overall. The Lakers posted an 11-7

he Laker men’s basketball team P hotogp er k i ns r conference record to qualify as the third Tregistered wins over NCAA Sweet seed, and hosted their first playoff game 16 participants, Morrisville and Ithaca, since 2006-07. In the SUNYAC quarter- en route to posting an overall record of final, Oswego State defeated Cortland aphy 19-8 and a conference record of 11-7 for the third time in the season after under second-year head coach Jason having handed the Red Dragons three Leone. Oswego State earned the fourth losses in the previous 47 meetings. seed in the SUNYAC Championship, Meagan Stover ’13 and Kari where it defeated Brockport on its Kipper ’13 both received All-SUNYAC home court in the quarterfinals before recognition, as Stover was named First falling to NCAA qualifier Cortland in Team and Kipper was named Third the semifinal round. Team. Stover, who was also the Max Hayden Ward ’13 averaged 18.2 Ziel Tournament MVP, paced Oswego points and 9.6 rebounds to finish his State with 12.2 points per game and career ranked ninth with 1,393 points 68 total steals. The ECAC Division and second with 892 rebounds. He III Upstate Second Team selection was the only league player to average became the first Laker to receive First a double-double, becoming the third Team all-conference honors since player in program history to be named 2004-05. Kipper ranked second on the the SUNYAC Player of the Year. It squad scoring 10.6 points per game, marked the first of several accolades while shooting 86.4 percent from Ward earned on the season, as he was the free-throw line. Newcomer Evie later named ECAC Division III Upstate Josbena ’13 started the season strong, First Team, D3hoops.com East Region as she was named to the Max Ziel All- First Team, NABC First Team All-East Tournament Team. Hayden Ward ’13 posts up a defender. chuck P hotogp er k i ns r Meagan Stover ‘13 goes up for a layup in the lane. District, NABC All-America Third Team,

aphy D3hoops.com All-America Second Team and DIII News All-America Fifth Team. Sean Michele ’12 was named Third Team All-SUNYAC after leading the conference in minutes played and was among the best point guards averaging 3.2 assists. Earlier in the season, Ward was named the Max Ziel Tournament MVP, while Daniel Ross ’14 was also named to the all-tournament team.

Women’s Basketball he Oswego State women’s basketball Tteam and head coach Tracy Bruno opened the season by winning its first eight games, including the program’s first win over Rochester, before wrapping up the year at

Oswego l Summer 2013 14 campus Currents

Former coach returns as director of athletics p r

Susan Viscomi is Oswego State ov i d e director of athletics effective June 1. She comes with more than 30 years of intercollegiate athletics experience as a coach, associate athletic director and, most recently, as athletic director at Hilbert College in Hamburg, New York.

chuck “I share Oswego’s vision for excellence and believe it’s important to devel- P hotogp er k i ns r op student-athletes who strive for exemplary academic achievement, competitive success, and a commitment to serve the communities in which they live,” stated aphy Viscomi. Viscomi became Hilbert’s first female athletic director in July 2010. She served as the associate athletic direc- Viscomi has served in numerous tor and senior woman administrator at capacities with the NCAA at the national, Hamilton College for 13 years. conference and institutional level since Before joining Hamilton’s staff, 1995. She has served as a member of the Viscomi was the Oswego State head NCAA Championships and as chairper- Paul Rodrigues ’13: gains control of the women’s soccer coach for seven years, son and member of the NCAA Women’s puck as he enters the offensive zone. during which she was twice named Soccer Committee. She has also com- State University of New York Athletic pleted the NACWAA/HERS Institute for Conference Coach of the Year (1991, administrative advancement. 1996). Her other collegiate experiences Viscomi earned her Master of Arts include a stint at Plattsburgh as an degree in Counseling from Colgate assistant professor of physical education, University and Bachelor of Science in The Laker men’s ice hockey team head women’s soccer coach and assistant Education degree in Physical Education celebrates after winning its ninth from SUNY Cortland. SUNYAC Championship. coach of men’s and women’s track and

M F EE N E J I M field. Y

Men’s Ice Hockey semifinal before falling to Wisconsin-Eau he Laker men’s ice hockey team and Claire in the championship game to finish Thead coach Ed Gosek ’83 M ’01 posted the season at 25-5-0 and cap off one of the one of the most memorable seasons in its most successful four-year stretches with a storied history. Oswego State finished league record of 98-17-2. play at 14-2-0 to earn the No. 1 seed before The season’s success brought accolades capturing its ninth SUNYAC Championship for members of the squad. Paul Rodrigues after blanking Plattsburgh, 4-0, to claim its ’13 became the ninth Oswego State player fourth-straight NCAA bid. to be named SUNYAC Herb Hammond The Lakers extended their season Most Valuable Player after pacing the following a 3-2 overtime win over Adrian league in points and surpassing 100 career in the NCAA quarterfinal round to punch points. He was joined on the First Team by a ticket to the Frozen Four for an unprec- Luke Moodie ’13, who led the conference edented fourth straight year. Oswego State in goals and reached 100 career points, and knocked off Norwich, 6-3, in the NCAA continued on page 16

15 Oswego l Summer 2013 campus Currents

[Winter 2013 Sports Round-Up Continued]

continued from page 15 chuck P hotogp er k i ns r defenseman Zach Josepher ’13, who was second in scoring among SUNYAC blue- liners. Assistant captain Chris Brown ’13 aphy received Second Team All-SUNYAC recognition after finishing second in assists and third in points, while goalie Andrew Hare ’13 ranked second in goals against average and save percentage and Jesse McConney ’13 ranked third in defensemen scoring to garner Third Team honors. Rodrigues was named American Hockey Coaches Associa- tion (AHCA) Sid Watson Memorial Award winner, which is symbolic of the nation’s best Division III men’s ice hockey player, the USCHO.com Division III National Player of the Year and the D3hockey.com National Player of the Year. He is not only the first player in SUNYAC history to Olivia Boersen ’14 looks to make a move in the offensive zone. receive the award, but also the first Oswego State athlete to be named National Player of the Year in any sport. Moodie and Josepher The Lakers return their top ten scorers were also named Division III CCM Men’s next season, including juniors Olivia Blake Fisher ’13 tries to escape Hockey East Second Team All-Americans Boersen ’14, Megan Hagg ’14 and Emma the clutches of his opponent. in Lake Placid. Smetaniuk ’14. Boersen recorded 16 points, while Hagg and Smetaniuk notched 11 Women’s Ice Hockey points each. Bridget Smith ’15 logged over he Oswego State women’s ice hockey 1,000 minutes in goal en route to a 10-8-1 T team under head coach Diane Dillon record, while Tori Trovato ’16 went 2-3-0 produced the most successful conference with a 1.79 goals against average. season in program history, as the Lakers earned the No. 3 seed in the ECAC West Indoor Track and Field tournament after recording a program-best he Oswego State men’s and women’s 10 wins despite having just 17 players on the Tindoor track and field teams each roster. Oswego State came up short in the finished eighth at the SUNYAC Champion- ECAC West Playoffs, finishing the season at ships in February under second-year head 12-12-1 overall. coach David Thompson. Melissa Seamont ’14 became the Brittany DalCais ’15 took second place second player in program history to be in the pole vault at the SUNYAC Champi- named Second Team All-ECAC West. She onships en route to earning Second Team paced Oswego State with 24 points on nine All-SUNYAC recognition. Earlier in the goals and single-season record 15 assists, season, she broke her own record in the while finishing tied for second in assists event after clearing a height of 11 feet, 7 in the league. Seamont enters next season 3/4 inches (3.55m). DalCais was also a five points away from setting the program member of the women’s 4x400 meter relay record in career points and three assists that placed second with a school-record away from the career assist mark. time of 4:05.24. Other members of the relay

Oswego l Summer 2013 16 campus Currents

included Kristen Harrigan ’15, Marissa Pariseau ’15 and Katie Bott ’14. Bott also established a new benchmark in the Register Now 400-meter dash with a time of 59.66 seconds earlier in the course of the season. [Athletic Hall of Fame Induction] At the SUNYAC Championships, Joshuwa Maiolo ’15 bettered the previous Cheer your team on again at the school mark in the long jump with a leap of 22 feet, 2 1/2 inches (6.77m) for a fourth- place finish. Ben Sweet ’13, Matt Wagen- hauser ’15, Nick Reinsdorf ’15 and Noah Carroll ’14 also set a new school record in Oswego Hall of Fame the distance medley relay during the season Induction Luncheon with a time of 10:21.51. Saturday, Nov. 2, 12:30 p.m. Wrestling he Oswego State wrestling team and Congratulations to the 2013 Inductees: T head coach Mike Howard ’90 had Robert Brutsch ’71 – Baseball several individual successes during a season Brian McGann ’70 – Wrestling that saw the Lakers finish 3-11 in dual meets, seventh at the Empire Collegiate Wres- Anne Sarkissian DeRue ’04 – Swimming tling Conference (ECWC) Kathryne “Kat” Stead ’05 – Women’s Soccer and Lacrosse chuck Championships and 13th

P hotogp er k i ns r at the New York Intercolle- For information and to register, please go to: giate State (NYIS) Champi- alumni.oswego.edu/halloffame onships.

aphy Blake Fisher ’13 became the first Oswego State wrestler to qualify for the NCAA Division III NCAA Northeast Regional Championships. event, the 200 freestyle and the 100 butterfly, Wrestling Championships In addition, he placed fourth at the NYIS respectively. Minnick touched the wall in since 2009 after placing Championships and second at the RIT 1:45.74, while Filiaci broke the one-minute second at 157 pounds at the Invitational. Michael Gentilcore ’14 also barrier with a time of 59.87. Minnick went NCAA Northeast Regionals won an individual title at 141 pounds at the on to two more top-16 finishes. Justin and tallying a 23-10 record. RIT Invitational. Berrios ’15 impressed on both boards, He put together a 15-match finishing seventh in the 3-meter dive with winning streak near the end Swimming and Diving a score of 370.55, and ninth in the 1-meter of the season that included ead coach Mike Holman ’96 with a score of 376.05. winning a conference title Hled the Oswego State men’s and Tom Schmid ’14 completed a successful at 165 pounds to become women’s swimming and diving teams to season in distance races with a pair of first grappler to earn the eighth- and ninth-place finishes, 14th-place finishes in the 400 individual championship since 2006. respectively, at the SUNYAC Cham- medley and the 1,650 freestyle. Katie Flood Omar Santiago ’13 pionships in February with the Laker ’14 also capped her junior season on a posted a team-high 24 men recording 176 points and the Laker strong note at the championships with wins at 133 pounds, and women posting 131 points. top-30 finishes in the 100 and 200 breast- fell one position short of Both Andrew Minnick ’14 and Sabia strokes and the 200 individual medley. l qualifying for nationals Filiaci ’15 placed sixth in their strongest —Adele Burk by finishing fourth at the

17 Oswego l Summer 2013 G eorge’78: rtWu III z

Towel and Tissue by Denise Owen Harrigan How an Oswego Degree in Industrial ArtsTitan Launched a Business Giant

Oswego l Summer 2013 18 Rob er Me scavagt e photog r aphy

Fulton offered him an inventory control with Phillip Morris, the parent company job at twice the salary. Wurtz made a of Miller Brewing. “It was like earning decisive course correction and followed a Ph.D. in executive management,” he the money—and a hunch that manufac- says. “I worked under industry icons. turing might be an even better fit. My ears were as big as Dumbo’s, taking it all in.” A Home Run? In 1987, Wurtz was recruited into While student teaching in Valley Stream, towel and tissue manufacturing, a subset Wurtz sensed a red flag. His trailblazing of forest products, the nation’s third lesson plan required students to design a largest industry. He spent the next 15 product, then form a company to build years helping to build Fort James, home and sell it. “The students loved it. They to such household brands as Brawny asked for extra lab time,” Wurtz remem- and Dixie Cups. When Georgia Pacific bers. “It looked like a home run.” bought Fort James for $7.5 billion, The school’s administrators made Wurtz helped guide the merger then a different call: “You’re not a business joined the new company in Atlanta, Ga. teacher,” they scolded Wurtz. “You’re an Within a few years, Wurtz was industrial arts teacher.” second in command at Georgia Pacific. Fortunately, the manufacturing As executive vice president of pulp and industry embraced such ingenuity. paper, he was responsible for seven Wurtz shakes his head when he companies, 10,000 employees, and remembers his first meeting with Miller $6 billion in annual sales. Brewing. “The interview date changed “I learned a lot working at the shrewd investment in his at the last minute. I had planned to get a decision-making level of giant compa- industrial arts education haircut and wear a suit. Instead I had to nies,” he says. “I discovered I loved has paid hefty dividends in go straight from the Industrial Arts lab, mergers and acquisitions. But I always his manufacturing career. looking like Jeremiah Johnson with my dreamed of walking away and creating Just to be clear: long hair and overalls.” smaller, leaner, more nimble companies, AGeorge Wurtz III ’78, president and “This was after the Vietnam War, managed by hands-on investors who CEO of Soundview Paper Co. LLC, and there was a shortage of engineers,” were also seasoned practitioners.” fully intended to teach industrial arts explains Wurtz. “Industry was recruiting Object Lesson by Denise Owen Harrigan after graduating from Oswego. Hard- from ‘tech programs,’ and Oswego had wired with his grandfather’s love of one of the best in the country. The opportunity to lead his dream woodworking and machinery, Wurtz “An industrial arts degree looked company came last year, when Wurtz, had graduated from a premier high- a lot like a degree in mechanical engi- with equity investment firm Atlas school industrial arts program. He had neering, with hands-on math, chemistry Holdings, purchased Marcal Paper Co., turned down offers to play football for and physics labs,” he reports. “A number a storied New Jersey towel and tissue Penn State and Army in order to enroll of my classmates went into industry company on the brink of closure. at Oswego. He had worked grueling instead of the classroom.” In 2006, Wurtz—by then an industry summer construction jobs to pay his icon—stepped away from corporate life tuition in cash. The Scenic Route when Koch Industries acquired Georgia Titan In 1978, industrial arts education Thirty-five years—and 17 address Pacific. After decades in the fast lane, degree in hand, Wurtz was ready to roll. changes—later, it’s tough to imagine he hoped to spend more time with his Launched a Business Giant He was weighing job offers from two the larger-than-life Wurtz on any other wife, Nancy. “‘Miss Nancy,’ as they say school districts when Miller Brewing in trajectory. He spent almost a decade in Atlanta, is my true love,” Wurtz says,

19 Oswego l Summer 2013 in our market, because it’s not profitable “along with my daughter, Jacqueline, Mountain, Ga., a massive but troubled to ship.” who has three wonderful boys under 4, supplier of foam cups, straws and other and my son, George IV, who carries on food service disposables. “I’d never The Lure of Marcal the towel-and-tissue tradition.” been associated with a company in bank- When Wurtz and Atlas Holdings Wurtz also looked forward to ruptcy,” he reports, “and I discovered purchased Marcal in 2012, the floun- stretches of time in his woodworking I love fixing broken stuff.” dering company had nearly lost sight of shop and aboard his 60-foot fishing Wurtz was trolling for other its proud history. Marcal was founded in boat. “My ideal day involves hooking a stressed companies when Marcal Paper 1928 by a resourceful Sicilian immigrant, 1,000-pound tuna,” he explains. “But in Elmwood, N.J., caught his eye. “A Nicolas Marcalus, whose 17 patents when that didn’t happen every day, I product like toilet tissue isn’t going include the jagged metal edge used to grew restless.” away,” he believes. “You can’t (digitalize cut waxed paper and the first automatic High-energy Wurtz went back or) cloud it. And China can’t compete toilet tissue winder. to work as CEO of WinCup in Stone

Oswego l Summer 2013 20 Marcal, which pioneered the use of recycled paper to make towels and A degree in industrial arts—today tissue, flourished for 70 years. In 2001, the family-run business borrowed $125 you’d call it technology—required million for a new paper machine—a wise investment, it seemed, until 9-11 and hands-on math, chemistry and Hurricane Katrina knocked the wind out of the economy. A few years later, the physics labs. It looked a lot like a bank called in the Marcal loan. In 2007, on the brink of bankruptcy, degree in mechanical engineering. the family sold to venture capitalists, who planned to take the regional company national. “Going national A number of my classmates went into Rob er industry instead of the classroom. Me scavagt e —George Wurtz III, ’78

photog r wasn’t the answer,” according to Wurtz. seasons. (Wurtz worked on a commer- “Thirty-eight percent of the domestic cial fishing boat). aphy towel and tissue market lies within 500 “My father was a union worker for miles of the Marcal plant.” the public utility company,” Wurtz says. “The company had a lot of pride “He’s always reminded me that ‘Joe but lost its way,” Wurtz believes. “By Hourly’ will make or break you. Success the time we took over, its workforce was doesn’t happen in the executive suite. emotionally decimated. “Football also taught me that you’re “We had to let 100 people go, but only as good as the guys behind you,” we saved 500 jobs,” he reports. “Those he adds. “From my corporate years, I workers are this company’s greatest learned that, if you’re not making it or asset. Many are immigrants from Eastern selling it, you are overhead.” Europe. The typical employee has been On a recent tour of the one-square- here for 18 years and most likely has a mile Marcal campus, Wurtz was walking father, brother or sister who works here.” the talk. At one point, the strolling CEO and a recycling truck approached the First-Name Basis same intersection. Wurtz gave the driver The outgoing, straight-shooting Wurtz a friendly salute. The driver stopped, now spends much of his time mingling smiled, and gestured for his boss to go with Marcal employees. On his daily ahead. walkabouts, he covers an average of 3.5 “No, you go ahead,” Wurtz miles and greets almost every employee chuckled. “I’m paying you.” by name. “These workers have done nothing but work hard for Marcal, even On a Roll as many lost their pensions,” says Wurtz. Since Soundview took charge, the Marcal “I love ’em to death.” plant has operated three shifts a day, seven days a week. Volume has increased From the Nest by 22 percent. Equity investors have Part of this allegiance dates back to earned 44 percent dividends. Employees Wurtz’s down-to-earth Long Island recently received their first gain-sharing childhood. He and four siblings checks. In December, Soundview (including Kevin ’79 and Thomas ’92) purchased a second paper plant, Pultney were instilled with a strong work ethic. Paper in Vermont. Each child was allowed to play one sport The Soundview company carries no and expected to hold a job during its off- debt. Fifty percent of profits are invested in operations. “We pay it forward,”

21 Oswego l Summer 2013 Ji m ell ’83Russ ell

Long-Range Lesson Plan: Unbeknownst to George Wurtz III ’78, Oswego was preparing him to embrace the unexpected. George Wurtz never used his Oswego degree in the classroom, but it’s been a priceless asset in his corporate career. “Industrial arts is the perfect training ground for manufacturing,” he says. “Everything I learned in industrial arts education applies to running a company. They taught us to be good managers without calling it management. “We learned to create lesson plans, which are essentially business plans. We learned to establish objectives, to control costs, and to measure progress. We learned that good leadership is about good teaching—emphasizing what’s going well and teaching what could be even better.” To acknowledge Oswego, George serves on its Engineering Advisory Board, shares executive suite insights on sharpening Oswego’s competitive edge and has established an Engineering Excellence Fund. And as a featured guest in the Alumni-in-Residence Program, he likes to underscore the enduring importance of Oswego relationships. “In college, you grow socially as well as academically. My best friends are

still my college friends,” Ji m

he reports. ’83Russ ell Students in the Department of Technology Those college friendships learn about the career path of George Wurtz III ’78, center, who spoke with may evolve into professional them in the new Manufacturing Systems relationships. Laboratory this spring. Wurtz and Ron Schulman ’7 7, who crossed paths early in their manufacturing careers, recently reconnected through LinkedIn. “One thing led to another,” says Wurtz, “and Wurtz explains. “When we buy a stressed Ron is now our comptroller at company, our goal is not to buy, fix, and sell. Soundview.” Our goal is to buy, get it going, and keep it Speaking of the unexpected: going. rugby represents another sur- “We came into Marcal making huge prise turn in Wurtz’s life. In Charles Edic ’14, a technology manage- promises,” Wurtz reflects. “Now we’re 1974, the 6-foot-3-inch middle ment major, shows a prototype of his class project, a steady-grip device for a camera, linebacker arrived at Oswego delivering on these promises—and regaining to George Wurtz ’78 during Wurtz’s a lot of trust. ready to play football, only to recent visit to campus. “Saving jobs is at the heart of our work,” learn the program had been cut. he says. “For decades, our country’s manu- The skeptical freshman, who had facturing base and its middle class have been been recruited by Penn State and Army, reluctantly joined Oswego’s rugby team. Almost 40 years later, Wurtz—a master of corporate mergers —still eroding. But the American spirit is still alive. considers this his favorite. You see it when we pull together after events “The rugby players taught us how to laugh, and we taught them how to like 9-11, Hurricane Sandy, and the Boston tackle. After the game, you sing songs and drink beer with your opponents,” Marathon bombing. he says. “My rugby friends remain my closest friends. Many still play every “Americans are very productive people,” summer in the CanAm Rugby Tournament.” says Wurtz. “I believe we have a strong shot at When Kevin Gilman ’74, the coach/catalyst of this spirited group, passed reviving manufacturing.” away in 2009, the rugby bond grew even stronger. Wurtz spearheaded the A strong shot indeed, if that revival is establishment of an endowed memorial scholarship and rugby fund to honor fueled by towel-and-tissue titan George his friend. Wurtz ’78, with his boots-on-the-ground “There is such cool camaraderie in rugby: part fraternity, part family,” leadership style, wide-angle view, and ever- says Wurtz. “I’ve learned it’s the greatest game ever played.” l versatile Oswego degree in industrial arts education. l

Oswego l Summer 2013 22 ‘Temple of Learning’ Restoration Commemorates Sheldon Hall Centennial R

pproached at dusk, it’s a breathtaking sight— appropriate weather vane tracks Oswego’s legendary gusts from SUNY Oswego’s landmark building bathed in atop Old Main’s tower. a splendid luster. The cupola is suffused with a Fourteen crumbling cement front steps have been replaced stunning glow, taking its place among the stars with granite, and the six Corinthian columns have fresh shells far above the campus and city. of terracotta. Five original re-paned windows top white oak AThe Normal Building. Old Main. Sheldon Hall. Whatever replicas of the doors that invited the first occupants to classes. name alumni remember it by, Oswego’s signature structure “It is wonderful to have Sheldon Hall, which is so inter- marks a 100-year milestone in 2013 with a return to its former twined with the college’s identity, finally and fully restored,” glory. said President Deborah F. Stanley, who spearheaded the resto- The college’s historic home has been repaired and renewed ration of Oswego’s landmark. in a $10 million exterior renovation. A capital project paid “The grand old building now greets our prospective under- for by New York State and overseen by the State University graduates and their families as they visit the Admissions Office Construction Fund, the restoration demanded historical there. We’re putting our best foot forward. Sheldon Hall is a authenticity. beautiful manifestation of our proud history while, next door Architects and SUNY Oswego staff members pored over on Washington Boulevard, the new and equally impressive vintage photos of the neo-classical building; they drilled holes in Shineman Center embodies our emphasis on innovation.” bricks to determine details of its construction, and they wielded It’s history worth preserving, according to Bob Lloyd ’81 M modern tools like lasers to replicate its unique appearance. ’89 of Oswego’s Facilities Design and Construction department, The new copper roof, already achieving a slight patina, who worked on the historical project from 2010 to its 2013 is illuminated by lights trained on the cupola, which, for the completion. first time in decades, displays four working clocks. A period- continued on page 26

23 Oswego l Summer 2013 “The State of New York has assented to a most liberal appropriation for the erection upon this spot of a temple of learning worthy of the fame which the Oswego Normal and Training School justly enjoys and which, in a sense, is a memorial of that great educator who consecrated his life to the cause of education, and whose name is inseparably identified with the Oswego School.” The Hon. P. W. Cullinan – at the laying of the Sheldon Hall cornerstone, 1911

Photo by Jim Russell ’83

Oswego l Summer 2013 24 Ji m ell ’83Russ ell

Sheldon Hall 1913 • 2013

25 Oswego l Summer 2013 continued from page 23 Oswego’s Public Affairs Office, who detailed the story in his unpublished history of the college’s first 150 years. It is a story Lloyd said workers replacing the “cheek walls”—limestone of delays and red tape, bringing the work on the $300,000 demi-walls flanking the front steps—discovered wires and building right down to the wire for its September 1913 conduit meant for light poles. Reviewing historic photos, they opening. replicated vintage lamps that formerly graced the entryway. With $25,000 appropriated by the state legislature, college The east pergola, which sheltered Normalites all the way officials purchased land along the lakeshore, including founder to Washington Boulevard and the trolley stop, is updated with Edward Austin Sheldon’s home at Shady Shore. white, cedar-topped fiberglass posts. Faculty helped draft plans, with the blueprints drawn up The exterior was pressure-washed with solvents safe for by Franklin B. Ware, the state architect: an H-shaped edifice antique materials, and broken bricks were replaced with exact with the west wing for the Normal School classes, the east replicas. Mortar was mixed in small batches to achieve a perfect wing for the Practice School, and a grand auditorium and match. Energy-efficient reproductions replaced 430 windows. gymnasium in the center. The structure was seen as a monument to Poucher. In his article on the principal in History of the First Half Century Hallowed History of Oswego State Normal and Training School, Amos W. Farnham 1875 wrote, “The new Normal School building, Alumni learned of plans for the building at the college’s semi- which is now ready for equipment on Ontario Heights, is centennial celebration and alumni gathering of 1911. Principal Dr. Poucher’s visible monument, which, like a city set on a Isaac B. Poucher told them, “There is no such thing as stand hill, cannot be hid.” still in our vocabulary; there is no such thing as inertia of The Hon. Patrick W. Cullinan, an Oswego attorney and mind.” former state assemblyman, speaking at the laying of the corner- Poucher had raised the need for a new building a half- stone, may have foreshadowed the future naming when he said, dozen years earlier, according to Tim Nekritz M ’05 of SUNY “The State of New York has assented to a most liberal appro-

Bri ttany priation for the erection upon this spot a temple of learning worthy of the fame which the Oswego Normal and Training

sma r School justly enjoys…a memorial of that great educator who

t consecrated his life to the cause of education and whose name is inseparably identified with the Oswego School.” At the college’s Centennial celebration in 1961, Old Main was renamed Sheldon Hall in honor of the Founder. Less than a decade after opening, during World War I, the Normal Building was home to a Student Army Training Corps, graduating 400 auto mechanics, blacksmiths, pipefitters and telephone linesmen, according to evidence uncovered by Nekritz. A 1918 pamphlet, To The Boys Overseas and Half the Seas Over, reads: “Every morning at 6:30 the bugle blows ‘Reveille;’ and 200 men form in front of the building for the raising of the flag. At seven o’clock they are in their classrooms.” Fire! The auditorium fire of Jan. 18, 1941, is burned into the memory of many alumni. Al Johns ’42 and his future wife, Ruth, emerged from the movies that night to empty streets. “We went up there and saw the fire in action. After that the building was pretty well filled with smoke, and the student body was asked to help clean up and wash the woodwork and furniture during that week following,” Johns said. Barbara Brown McCormack ’44 said, “The night that Sheldon Hall burned, I was home in bed. My father came up

Oswego l Summer 2013 26 the stairs and said, ‘Where is your violin?’ I said, ‘At school.’ He said, ‘It is gone’.” Ruined were a Steinway grand piano, a $1600 Hammond organ, and students’ instruments. “What was rescued?” asked McCormack. “My violin. Apparently the case was fireproof.” With the help of Dr. Lloyd Sunderland, chair of the music department, she had the violin repaired and at graduation in 1944 she played it, accompanied by her mother, Helen Picken Brown ’18. Nekritz also writes of a suspected arson in the library in 1950. Amid burned matches and furniture cushions, investiga- tors found an empty frame that had held an oil portrait, valued at $2,400, of former president Ralph W. Swetman. On stage From the 1965 Ontarian: Members of the Student Education The restored auditorium remained a focus of college life until Association of New York State are shown on the steps of the building was temporarily closed. “Every day we had to go Sheldon Hall. there first,” recalled Betty Reid Gallik ’45, speaking of chapel. “We would have a little ceremony before classes and say a prayer. They checked to make sure we were there.” firm soon began to turn Old Main into a conference center Davis Parker ’47, Beta Tau Epsilon dance chair, remem- and hotel. bers sharing the stage with President Swetman to announce Sheldon’s historic status required interior doorways, the first intrafraternity dance. “It was a big deal to get the frats windows and moldings be maintained in original style. The together.” auditorium was converted into a ballroom and banquet facility, Parker recalls wartime gas rationing was in effect. “There and the gymnasium became a hotel lobby, with a porte cochere was a big confab as to whether people would drive. It was added to the north side for arriving guests. decided that if you couldn’t walk there, it was OK to drive to In the late 1990s, legal issues caused the developers to the dance.” discontinue the project, and the state turned the building back Alumni remember the iconic front steps, depending to the college. It was rededicated to Oswego’s use in September on their generation, as a place for graduation, class photos, 1998 on the eve of President Deborah F. Stanley’s inauguration. watching homecoming parades, or senior toasts. “It was clear at the outset of this administration that Betty Gallik has vivid memories of meeting Eleanor Roos- bringing Sheldon Hall back to the college was a priority for evelt there. As president of the Women’s Athletic Association, members of our campus and alumni community,” President she was invited, along with the late Betty Burden ’45 and M. Stanley said. “It had been vacant or in the hands of others since Carol McLaughlin ’45, to greet the First Lady. 1983—it seemed our heritage was no longer our own. So, we Parker recalls having geography with Isabel Kingsbury worked to find means to restore the building’s iconic look and Hart 1907 and psychology with Donald Snygg in Room 100, made plans for it to have purposes that fulfilled its original known now as the historic classroom, with its tiered rows central role in new ways.” seating 77. For Betty and Bill Gallik ’47 Snygg’s lecture was President Stanley said Sheldon Hall is now brimming with their only shared class and the scene of an embarrassing life around the clock as a multi-use building. It has classrooms incident. “I was feeling my beads around my neck and didn’t for the School of Education, residential rooms for students, the pearls break!” Betty said, describing falling pearls. “And daycare and playground for children, a chamber music series Dr. Snygg said, ‘I’m sure Betty would appreciate it if someone and other special events in the auditorium, and administrative would help pick them up’.” Bill came to her rescue. offices for offices of Admissions, International Education, and University Development. “What makes it so wonderful,” President Stanley said, “is that when you walk through Sheldon Hall today, you absorb The modern era the history of our institution in every corridor and doorway, The 100,000-square-foot building, placed on the National while you also encounter its future around every corner.” Registry of Historic Places in 1980, exceeded the state formula With the renovation complete, tradition and vision are for funding, according to a history compiled by Robert Schell, united in the “Temple of Learning” we know as Sheldon emeritus associate dean of students. The Office of General Hall. l Services issued a call for proposals, and the Sarkisian Brothers —Michele Reed

27 Oswego l Summer 2013 Oswego’s Endowment: The Art and Science of Success

Morse added that the endowment in an annual study conducted by the provides “additional basic support to National Association of College and everybody at the college through more University Business Officers (NACUBO). scholarships, improved facilities, quality Of the 493 institutions that reported their faculty and research.” 10-year rate of return from the years The foundation’s investment 2003 to 2012, Oswego ranked 51st, higher n one hand, the story committee members monitor the perfor- than universities with multi-billion dollar of SUNY Oswego’s mance of investment fund managers, endowments such as Princeton and endowment is one of manage the asset allocation of the Foun- Stanford. numbers—how the dation’s investments, make an annual In fact, in eight of the last 10 years gifts made Oswego has outperformed from generous donors to the Oswego College Foundation, Inc. the industry average, O Endowment Pool Performance vs. Industry (NACUBO) Survey Oswego College Foundation including the six straight Years Ended June 30th have been wisely managed to 25 25 years ended June 30, 2012. 21.8 support the institution. On 20 20 When broken down 17.5 17.5

the other hand, it is a story of 15 15 14.1 into smaller time periods, people—how alumni, faculty 12.5 Oswego’s performance is 9.4

10 10 8.4 and friends give generously; even more impressive. For

how the Foundation Board 5 5 3.4 the last five years, Oswego -2.8 -10.9 members, stewards of the 0 PERCENT 0 earned 4.2 percent, ranking -.3 9.3 17.2 11.9 19.8 15.3 fund, manage those gifts, and -5 -5 10.8 23rd of 666 institutions how Oswego students and -3.0 completing the report, or in -10 -10 ■ Oswego faculty members ultimately ■ NACUBO the top 3 percent. Three-year benefit. -15 -15 data shows Oswego’s increase -18.7 -20 -20 at 13.5 percent, placing the ’04 ’0520042005’06 2006’07 2007’08 2008’09 2009’102010’112011’1220122013’13** Wise Investing, **Industry benchmark not yet available college 25th of 705 institu- Good Stewardship tions, or the top 4 percent. recommendation of the spending rate, “The Investment Committee and Oswego’s endowment stands at more and recommend all changes in invest- Board of Directors took decisive action than $15 million dollars, a powerful ment relations and procedures. in the summer and fall of 2008 when the force for good that benefits the college’s The committee looks at each fund world economy was in a free fall. That’s students, faculty and staff in myriad ways and its long-term spending goal. They really the year that set us apart from the every day. consider the need to generate sufficient rest of the endowment world,” explained It has grown from $4 million in 2004 returns to make the desired annual Slayton. — a more than threefold increase — awards and to keep pace with inflation. Oswego’s loss that year was only thanks to Oswego’s generous supporters The goal, according to the Oswego 10.9 percent versus an industry average and the wise stewardship of the Oswego College Foundation’s Director of Finance of 18.7 percent, according to the College Foundation and its Investment Mark Slayton, is to generate long-term NACUBO report. Committee, headed for many years by annual returns in the 8 to 9 percent But as any successful investor knows, the late Tom Lenihan ’76. range, since an endowment typically preserving principal isn’t enough. You “State budgets have been plum- spends 5 percent each year. also need to increase it. meting, so for education it is vital that the “We have been able to do that over a So, as early as November 2008, the Oswego College Foundation step up to 10-year window,” Slayton says. Investment Committee began to strategi- raise money for those empty spots in the Oswego’s 10-year return rate is 8.2 cally re-engage the equity markets to take budget every year to maintain a quality percent—even given the 2008 crash of advantage of the recovery. As a result, institution,” said Dr. Harold Morse ’61 the financial markets. Oswego’s endowed funds have each now of the foundation board’s investment Oswego’s endowment has consis- fully recovered and exceed their pre-crash committee. tently shown earnings ranking in the levels. top 10 percent of nearly 500 participants

Oswego l Summer 2013 28 All Above Water he other outcome of the Invest- Oswego’s Endowment: ment Committee’s successful work was in the area of underwater The Art and Science of Success funds.T That’s when a fund is underper- forming to the point where it is worth less than its original principal. Half a decade after the stock market crash, many not-for-profits are still struggling with underwater funds. The Oswego College Foundation’s experience with underwater funds was brief and insignificant. The fund has carried no underwater funds at all since 2010. “The success of Oswego’s endowment is not only due to the prudent over- sight of our investments over the years but to our board taking decisive action and doing something unconventional,” said Slayton. Honored at the June 2012 Oswego College Foundation board, the late Tom Lenihan ’76 In summer of 2008, Oswego was just with his wife, Lynn Van Order Lenihan ’76, was recognized for his tireless and astute coming out of the successful Inspiring leadership as chair of the board’s investment committee. The couple generously provided lead donor gifts and support for programs for more than a quarter of a century. Horizons campaign, which raised nearly $24 million to support the college. “We wanted to do everything we could to Tom and Lynn Lenihan were stead- Foundation Board Chairman Bill protect those investments our alumni fast supporters of their alma mater for Spinelli ’84 concurred. “Tom kept a and friends had made in Oswego’s more than a quarter century. They were vigilant watch on market conditions, future,” said Slayton. The board carefully lead donors for the Inspiring Horizons opportunities and challenges to extract watched the markets and began to reduce campaign, and supported the Campus the most beneficial position for the our allocation in equities even before the Center and the Possibility Scholarship Foundation’s investments and assets,” crash of September 2008. program. Tom and Lynn served as he said. “After much conversation, the Reunion Giving Chair for their 25th During his tenure, Lenihan always board adopted a very conservative anniversary class reunion and spear- humbly deferred to his colleagues’ approach and it paid off very well for headed the revitalization of the college’s contributions, calling the work of the us,” Slayton said. reunion giving program, in addition entire committee a “labor of love.” Much of that success was due to the to Tom’s membership on the Oswego “Tom, in his humble way, never masterful leadership of Tom Lenihan ’76, College Foundation Board of Directors. accepted personal recognition but who chaired the Investment Committee would say it was the work of the entire for nearly seven years until his untimely ‘Labor of Love’ committee,” said Kerry Casey Dorsey death in March. In June 2012, the Oswego College ’81, vice president for development and Lenihan graduated from Oswego Foundation board honored Lenihan for alumni relations and president of the with a degree in economics and computer his “dedicated steadfast leadership” of Oswego College Foundation. “But in his science. While at Oswego, he met the love the Investment Committee, noting he sailing vernacular, he was the captain of of his life, Lynn Van Order Lenihan ’76. deserved “recognition and accolades for that ship.” They were married in 1976 and have two his tireless efforts.” “Every time the markets dipped or children, Brian and Colleen. “We were privileged to have the moneys got short, Tom would also give Tom Lenihan retired from MetLife benefit of his guiding interest,” said us a great talk at board meetings — how after 30 years with the organization, President Deborah F. Stanley. “The we have this huge responsibility to having risen to the position of managing future of this institution is stronger and Oswego to rise to the occasion,” recalled director for investment management more secure due to Tom’s unwavering Morse. “Particularly when we had and capital markets. It was that exper- commitment to his alma mater, espe- the recession, he led the effort to help tise he put to the service of Oswego’s cially as the dedicated steward of our prevent any of the scholarship funds endowment. endowment.” from going underwater at that time. He continued on page 30

29 Oswego l Summer 2013 continued from page 29 “Tom would say, ‘These are our The empathy and commitment the brothers and sisters and we have to take committee has for Oswego’s students, made us feel that we had a responsibility care of them,’” said Morse. “It’s how we coupled with their knowledge of finan- not only to watch everything but also to all felt on the board.” cial markets and their dedication to their fix it.” That empathy comes from personal fiduciary responsibility to the college “The vigilance that he provided in experience. The vast majority of the are all part of the winning combination overseeing that everything was all right board members are alumni, and some the Investment Committee brings to was outstanding,” added Morse. “I’ve faced obstacles to fulfill their own their stewardship of Oswego’s endow- been on several boards and have never educational dreams. They may have ment – the art and science of investing seen anyone who was so responsible.” worked to earn money for tuition or success. l Lenihan’s “labor of love” stemmed books, and some benefited from the —Michele Reed from a genuine affection for his alma generosity of donors. mater and its students. Endowment 101 y definition, an or one who has overcome hardship or Willock ’50 Chair in Finance, provides endowment is when faces financial need. funds to assist with paying the salary a donor makes a gift with An endowment could also create of a professor — usually a scholar of the understanding that the an excellence fund for an academic some renown — to teach in a particular collegeB will never spend the original gift, department, sports team or extracur- area or department. These are but a few just a portion of the investment earn- ricular program. The dean or director examples of the power of philanthropy. ings. The gift exists in perpetuity — that can use a portion of the accumulated The Oswego College Foundation has is, forever — and benefits all genera- earnings to bring speakers to campus, nearly 175 endowed funds providing tions of SUNY Oswego students and the help students attend conferences and more than $500,000 in scholarship college’s programs. career-exploration field trips, or buy and program support back to Oswego’s Most often, we think of an endow- needed equipment. students. Annually, more than 200 ment as the pot of money behind One donor’s gift has allowed the students benefit from just the direct a scholarship. When a generous establishment of a student-run awards provided by donor-endowed alumnus gives a $25,000 gift to Investment Club, which invests scholarship funds. These are in addition Oswego (often with a multi-year a portion of the endowed fund to the scholarship benefits provided by pledge) with the intention to established by Gordon A. Lenz the campus. endow a scholarship, the funds ’58 so students can learn about The Oswego College Foundation are invested. Once they generate financial markets and gain real Board of Directors and its Investment sufficient income (usually after a world investment management Committee are charged with managing year), a potential $1,000 scholarship experience. The Public Justice these endowment dollars to ensure that can be awarded each year to a student Excellence Fund, established by desired payouts are available each year meeting the donor’s criteria. The donor David Cutler ’74, helps students and that they grow to match inflation. can designate whether the scholarship attend an annual scholarly confer- Their diligent stewardship means goes to a student with a certain ence and travel to corrections the funds will always fulfill the donors’ major, from a specific home‑ facilities to explore wishes, benefiting generations of town or military background, career opportuni- Oswego students and giving future ties in the public donors the confidence to invest in justice field. An Oswego’s mission. l endowed chair, like —Michele Reed the Marcia Belmar

Oswego l Summer 2013 30 Four “W’s” and an “H”: Journalist Helps Reveal the “How” as Newtown Strives for Healing

e’ll always wonder why. Sturdevant struggled p r ov i d e But, for Matthew academically and financially Sturdevant ’97 the at Oswego, working toward story of Newtown, Conn., two degrees while pulling Wis about how. How will the community endless shifts in the dining repair itself? hall. A roommate—a Sturdevant, a journalist who has communication studies essentially been embedded since the major—planted the seed of tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary, journalism, and Matthew is telling that story. discovered his gift for “My task has always been to follow storytelling post-grad as he the people,” says Sturdevant who, along sampled various jobs and with other members of the staff of the traveled the east coast. Hartford Courant, is a runner up for A lover of the outdoors, the Pulitzer Prize. Sturdevant spent five By following and by listening, summers as a guide at a Boy Sturdevant has uncovered touching Scouts of America High stories behind tattoos, a very special Adventure base in Maine animal sanctuary and other tributes to during and after college. He returned to would choose sparse obituaries, call people lost in the infamous shooting the city of Oswego for a time as a therapy the relatives for information, and craft Dec. 14. They are now a part of Stur- aide in the mental health wing of Oswego proper tributes to the deceased. devant’s own story, the unlikely tale of Hospital. Since arriving nearly four years ago a psychology and business major who “No question, working with people at the Hartford Courant after stints at the almost became a potato farmer. at such an acutely sensitive time in Caller-Times in Corpus Christi, Texas, their lives helped me in journalism,” he and the Daily Press in Newport News, says, a fact born out when the Pulitzer Va., Sturdevant has again employed his committee commended the Hartford Oswego experience as a business reporter Courant staff for its sensitivity in and blogger. handling coverage in Newtown. But, when not covering health care, While living in northern Maine, insurance and business, he’s often called Sturdevant applied for a job at a weekly to journalism’s front line of breaking in rural Caribou, where he, with help news, the Boston Marathon bombing from textbooks provided by his editor, and Superstorm Sandy among them. essentially taught himself the skills of His most difficult assignment to journalism. date, though, he’s still working on: the “If it hadn’t worked out being a stories of all the survivors, those children reporter those few days, I would have with lifetimes left to live. been harvesting potatoes,” Sturdevant “Once the basics of the story have recalls. been told, it’s really the story of how But, it did work out. And Sturdevant this town is coping,” he says. “The rest developed a talent for digging deep for of the world may have moved on, but stories. He initiated a “Not Forgotten” in Connecticut, especially in Newtown, series at the Glens Falls Post Star that they’ll be talking about this for became almost a tutorial in how to decades.” l handle sensitive topics. Each week, he —Shane M. Liebler

31 Oswego l Summer 2013 Philanthropy in Action

Linda Panarites Sweeting ’75 Makes Giving a Priority ocusing on students and their needs thropy by coworkers, especially Brock- Fas a way of paying tribute to her port faculty member emeritus Frances family perfectly fits Linda Panarites Moroney Whited ’44. Sweeting’s sensibilities regarding philan- “I valued my time at Oswego and thropy. A 1975 graduate, she has been the education I received as a student,” making gifts to SUNY Oswego’s annual Sweeting says. “Now, I completely fund and volunteering as a reunion gift admire and trust the people in the Office organizer over the years, but always of Development, and I really like the “hoped to do more.” direction Oswego is going in terms of When she consulted with her academics.” husband and her brother about honoring Sweeting says her father’s people departed family members through came to America from Greece, and even an endowed scholarship, they were though they all valued education, only of one mind in creating a fund that one of the siblings had the resources to would provide financial assistance to complete a college degree. The Panarites- one entering student each year. That Sweeting Family Scholarship will ensure Linda Panarites Sweeting ’75, scholarship recipient Bianca Camillaci ‘15, and student would come to SUNY Oswego that the selected student will have access Rick Sweeting from Spencerport or Hilton, alternately, to higher education without incurring and would personify the values of the crippling debt. Panarites and Sweeting families. “When we talked to professionals at Sweeting spent her career in the Oswego, we said we didn’t want to put alumni and development office at SUNY a lot of restrictions on the choice of the Brockport, where she saw the “differ- recipient,” Sweeting says. “But when we ence a gift could make in the lives of the met Bianca, the first recipient, and her student and the donor.” She says she family, we felt as if she had been hand always wanted to make a gift to Oswego picked for us.” that went beyond supporting the annual —Linda Loomis ’90 M ’97 fund, and she was inspired in philan- Lou Borrelli ’77 Makes $25,000 Gift to Student Media Excellence Fund Lou Borrelli ’77 is a cable television pioneer, Borrelli supports student organizations as the founder of the media executive and steadfast supporter of SUNY Oswego. Lewis B. O’Donnell Media Summit, which provides networking He continued his support this year with a gift of $25,000 to opportunities for students in media fields and attracts communi- the Student Media Excellence Fund. cation professionals from all over the country. Giving to student organizations is important to Oswego, After the launch of the Summit, he established the Student as it provides funding that cannot always be provided by the Media Excellence Fund, as he saw the need to further provide for Student Association. WNYO and WTOP. The majority of his most recent gift funded “I have been directing my annual giving the past several “a multichannel digital replay system used during Laker Hockey years to ‘Excellence Funds’ to provide support for WNYO and games,” which put WTOP on par with sports networks like WTOP to supplement their SA budget,” Borrelli says. “My gifts ESPN and NESN. over the years have provided equipment, travel expenses and Borrelli is also a member of the Oswego College Foundation fees for conferences and award competitions.” Board and the School of Communication, Media and the Arts These organizations, although mostly funded by SA, benefit Advisory Board, and he was Reunion Giving Chair for his 35th greatly from philanthropic support by alumni. Excellence funds Reunion cluster this year. He encourages other alumni to give can be supported by anyone who wishes to designate their back to Oswego and show their support for students. annual gifts to student organizations, and new excellence funds “A little support goes a long way to help current students can always be established. and student organizations,” he says. “Excellence Funds are a good way to get involved,” —Kaitlin Provost ’12 Borrelli says.

Oswego l Summer 2013 32 Charter member of SCMA Company Matches Advisory Board makes gift Couple’s Gift p r ov i d e of $50,000 to Oswego for Possibility p r Howard Olinsky ’81, ov i d e Old Marine Midland Bank a disability attorney and Building, where his office Scholarships managing partner of Olinsky was for more than 15 years. p r ov i d e T. Scott King ’74 and Disability, has given a gift of He says the firm moved to Deborah Coppola $50,000 to SUNY Oswego. Syracuse in order King ’75 of Delray Beach, Two-thirds of his gift will go to expand, but Olinsky never Florida, are staunch to the School of Communi lost his love for Oswego or the supporters of SUNY cation, Media and the Arts desire to give back to Oswego. They recently Dean’s Fund, and one-third to the college. gave a gift of $25,000 to where the need is greatest. “I plan on being an active the Possibility Scholarship Olinsky serves on the first participant,” he says. Giving program, with another SCMA Advisory Board, and is a back is “a way of bring- $25,000 matched from loyal supporter of SUNY Oswego. He says ing additional money into the individual Sun Capital Partners Inc., of which Scott King supporting his alma mater is an important schools without having to raise tuition,” is Senior Managing Director. part of his philanthropy plan, to give back and he believes this is crucial to Oswego’s The Possibility Scholarship program pro- to “the schools and universities that have success. vides tuition assistance to students pursuing helped me become successful.” His goal for this gift is to help students degrees in the Science, Technology, Engineering, “Successful” is no exaggeration – who graduate with a communications and Math (STEM) fields. Students must qualify Olinsky manages 16 full-time attorneys and degree become more marketable. He and academically and demonstrate financial need. 22 contracted attorneys at his firm, which is Dean Fritz Messere ’71 M ’76 are working This is the Kings’ second contribution to the largest filer of Social Security Disability on a plan to create a PR program that can the Possibility Scholarship program, and Scott federal court cases in the nation. He has help students get experience with all aspects says they support it because, “It’s a great offices in Syracuse and Orlando. of advertising and media. program. It’s as simple as that. It’s given us an Olinsky got his start in Oswego, open- “It’s a big goal,” he says, “but you’ve got opportunity to help somebody that would oth- ing up his law firm on West First Street. to start somewhere.” erwise struggle financially to go to college.” The firm’s name still adorns the front of the —Kaitlin Provost ’12 Students awarded this scholarship are also given the chance to participate in the Global Laboratory program. This is an international research opportunity that is completed in the summer following each student’s sophomore New Giving Levels Designated (effective July 1, 2013) year. This year, students have been placed in Oswego’s leadership giving philanthropic leaders, call 315-312-3003 or India, France, Brazil, Costa Rica, Democratic society, The President’s Circle, has been visit alumni.oswego.edu/presidentscircle Republic of the Congo, and Taiwan. reconfigured to reflect new giving levels New levels of giving in The President’s The Kings’ generous gift will have a signifi- as of July 1. The revision is in response to Circle are: cant and positive impact on this program. changing economic times and inflation. “Both my wife and I graduated from A $500 gift would be the equivalent of The President’s Circle Oswego,” Scott adds, “and we love to give back.” $1,070 today to make the same impact it $25,000 + Medallion Society did when these giving levels were estab- —Kaitlin Provost ’12 $10,000 –$24,999 Torchbearer lished nearly 30 years ago. Society We continue to recognize members $5,000 – $9,999 Ambassador of The President’s Circle as those who Society are among the most dedicated supporters of Oswego; therefore, the starting level in $2,500 – $4,999 Ontarian Society that designation will be $1,000. A newly $1,861 – $2,499 1861 Founder’s established Green and Gold Club will Society acknowledge donors who make gifts $1,000 – $1,860 Pillar Society of $250 through $999. Green and Gold Club: Donors wishing to continue to give

at their previous designated levels can $500 – $999 Gold member arrange for installment giving. $250 – $499 Green member For information on joining Oswego’s

33 Oswego l Summer 2013 Philanthropy in Action “The future depends on what you do today.” —Mahatma Gandhi Sheldon Legacy Society Taps Faithful Donor as Chair lanned giving makes it possible for present and as more people are aware of PSUNY Oswego alumni and friends to the variety of plans and the benefits of reach beyond the present and touch the each plan. future. Jack James ’62 sees it as a means of A retired Marine Corps Colonel and ensuring that his alma mater remains an former faculty member at National–Louis effective institution of higher education University, James has long supported for many generations to come. Oswego through giving and volunteering. James has agreed to chair the Sheldon Leading by example, he has bequeathed Legacy Society Steering Committee and a significant portion of his estate to to work with other members to revitalize Oswego, and he established a charitable that group, which honors those who gift annuity in honor of the 50th reunion include Oswego in their estate plans. of his class. He says he accepted the leadership posi- With ongoing gifts, James supports a A member of the Oswego College tion because he has faith in the students scholarship for non-traditional learners, Foundation Board, Jack James ’62 has of today and in those of the future. The provides a fund dedicated to equipment added the role of Legacy Society chair to Legacy Society affirms some of the values and facilities improvement, and maintains the many ways he supports Oswego and its students. founder Edward Austin Sheldon held a student program fund for the School of dear: careful planning, generous giving, Education. and faithful stewardship. James invites those interested in The Society is comprised of people information about the Sheldon Legacy the legacy of learning extends into the who are committed to spreading the Society and planned giving to call the future by enabling current students to message about the benefits of planned Office of University Development at complete their educations for the benefit giving. James says Oswego’s students will 315-312-3003. of future generations. In this way, the benefit as more people understand that “Planned giving is the ultimate Sheldon legacy, personal philanthropy a legacy gift enables them to give beyond commitment to Oswego and its students,” and a donor’s family legacy are linked.” what they might be able to give at the James says. “It’s a way to ensure that —Linda Loomis ’90, M ’97 Rob er t j . ’78 c l a r k

Class of 1963 Celebrates 50th Reunion at Golden Alumni Society Luncheon Members of the Class of 1963 celebrated their 50th reunion at the Golden Alumni Society Luncheon in the Sheldon Hall Ballroom. Pictured from left: front row — Ed Church, Rosalie Nicastro DiMeo, Patricia Dubiel, Barbara R. Fleming, Harriet Goldstein Gorran, Clair Wylie, Larry Holzman, Marcia Peterson Brown, Mary Bome Kocher, Anne Wadley Lauko, Anne Friedman Kriz, Joyce Van de Merlen Landau, and Susan Mikolay Pate; middle row — Frederick Winstedt, Bill White, Stan Syversten, Robert Sumner, Richard Stratton, Dolores Jolly Stieper, David Kresel, Robert Skinner, Marilou Huberth Santoro, Joseph Sheperd, Joan Ward Rein, and Mary M. McCarthy; back row — Mary Miceo Corapi, Stephanie Caraoli, Karl Kriz, Francis Hughes, Joseph Lauko, Dave Loascio, Joe Loffredo, Ann Jaeger Hardesty, Karen Kotary O’Bryan, Marilyn Burkell Roth, James Purdy, and George Stieper.

Oswego l Summer 2013 34 Class Notes

Call us at: 315-312-2258 Email us at: [email protected] Fax us at: 315-312-5570 Visit our website at: Class Notes alumni.oswego.edu

35 Oswego l Summer 2013 Class Notes

‘A Christmas Carol’ Evokes Memories of 1973 Campus Performance As plans solidified to bring reper- There is one particular character that tory actor Carl Whidden ’75 to cam- Whidden finds challenging to portray, but he pus Dec. 6 to perform his one-actor version of refuses to name it. If I disclose it, then I’ll be Charles Dickens’s beloved classic, “A Christmas self-conscious when I am in front of an audi- Carol,” 40-year-old memories began to surface ence,” he explains. Rather, the veteran of stage, and circulate among Oswego alumni and the television and screen says, “I value the great ARTSwego staff. People remembered a cast privilege of working in ‘A Christmas Carol,’ of 158, including 130 local children, who had where every character is a delight to know.” staged an original version of the story in 1973, Returning to Oswego, Whidden will refresh when Whidden starred in the exacting role of his memories of what he calls “Rosemary’s Ebenezer Scrooge. most wonderful adaptation and execution;” “Almost daily, we were finding connec- he will conduct master classes in the theatre tions with alumni and local residents who department, and he will connect with long-time were involved in that memorable production,” friends, like Professor Mark Cole ’73, with John Shaffer, director of arts programming whom he has maintained a 42-year friendship. for ARTSwego, says. “Legendary Professor This national tour, with an Oswego per- Rosemary Nesbitt wrote and directed. It was a formance brings Whidden full circle and puts presentation of the Children’s Theatre of Oswego him once again in touch with a story he loves. and Blackfriars, and it had a lasting impact.” “Imagine my excitement every time I perform. Whidden’s two-act adaptation calls for Every character in this story remains vital in him to portray 32 discrete characters, each of our imaginations. The story, and the personali- which has a unique personality and different ties are timeless, and it makes me feel ageless. accent. “I’ve had to do a lot of homework. It’s After all, I’m 60, and I get to play Tiny Tim.” l challenging to switch characters quickly, get —Linda Loomis ’90 M ’97 the accents accurate, and always—above all— be faithful to Dickens in my portrayal. p r p r ov i d e ov i d e

Carl Whidden ’75, in cos- tume as himself, will portray 32 characters in the one-actor adaptation of “A Christmas Carol” in Hewitt Union ballroom Dec. 6.

Ellen Stengel Wahl ’73, Oswego, displays a design board of a London street scene from an earlier campus/community production of the late Rosemary Nesbitt’s adaptation of “A Christmas Carol.” Ellen’s husband, Mark ’74, was lighting designer, and Ellen was student director; they both worked on sets and scenery for the original production.

Oswego l Summer 2013 36 Class Notes

Alumni Bookshelf This column celebrates the publishing success of Oswego alumni authors, illustrators and recording artists. Please keep us informed about new books and audio recordings by requesting that your publisher or distributor send a copy for the Oswego Alumni Bookshelf at King Alumni Hall.

Edwin Peterson ’54 explains in great detail as seen through the eyes of a daughter and her the complexities of milk glass with full color terminally ill parents. Self published. 2010. images in his book Milk Glass Plates. Self Lois Hamill ’79 provides practical, step-by-step published. 2010. guidance for managing all facets of archival John W. Parsons ’54 most recent novel, collections, from acquisition, arrangement and ETB, follows the heroine from his previous description to storage and security. Archives for novel, Stone and Mortar, as she takes on the Lay Person is a guidebook for people who another worldly cause. John has also written care for historical records, photographs, and col- two other novels, Unselfish and A Journey lections but do not have professional training. Through Life. He is working on his fifth novel. AltaMira Press. 2013. Wasteland Press. 2012. Jodi Weinstein Mullen ’92 and Michael Mullen Craig W. Fisher, PhD. ’65 shares his knowl- ’94, both professors and staff members at SUNY edge of fundamentals and information Oswego, along with their children, Andrew and quality in the textbook, Introduction to Leah, have written Naughty No More, a work- Information Quality that he co-wrote with book for children who want to make good Eitel Lauria, Shobha Chengalur-Smith, and decisions. This book offers simple, kid-friendly Richard Wang. The purpose of the textbook activities that provide opportunities for growth. is to alert business professionals to the per- Balboa Press. 2013. l vasiveness and criticality of data problems. The Author House. 2011. Edward Albert Maruggi ’72 tells mirth- ful tales of travelling through Italy in his most recent novel, Humorous Happenings While Traveling in Italy. Edward is the author of three other books pertaining to being an Italian- American, Mushrooms, Sausage and Wine: Life with an Immigrant Father; Italian Heart, American Soul, and Remembrances. Winston Publishing. 2011. Patricia A. Nugent ’75 wrote a book entitled, They Live On: Saying Goodbye to Mom and Dad, with 300 vignettes portraying the stages of caring for and saying goodbye to a loved one,

37 Oswego l Summer 2013 Class Notes

‘Return to Oz’ Returns mark your calendars now for Return to Oz IV, Oswego’s reunion for alumni of color, coming Sept. 27 to 29. A special dinner and ball, a concert by the Gospel Choir, and a picnic at Fallbrook await you at the end of the “Yellow Brick Road” to Oswego. Advance registrations are required. Visit alumni.oswego.edu/ returntooz for more information and to register. Join us on Facebook at facebook.com/sunyoswegoreturntooz to post photos, give shout-outs or share songs you would like to hear throughout the weekend.

Mi Don’t miss out! “Follow el C gu el the Yellow Brick Road to a l d er Oz” this September. on

Oswego l Summer 2013 38 Class Notes

State Champ Conquers the Hills in Tour de Syracuse In his career as a guidance coun- enjoy cycling as a way to socialize with gory 3. The upgrade to a more competitive selor at Newburgh Free Academy, Thomas friends. “When I bought my first road category has made a big change in Hill’s Hill ’96 helps students identify their bike, I thought I’d never race it. Then the goals and expectations, and he focuses interests, set reasonable goals, and plan competitive side of me took over, and I now on improving his time rather than on actions to reach those goals. The 2013 decided to train for an event,” he said. winning each race he enters. first-place winner of Tour de Syracuse Now, he’s on the road for approximately Hill and his wife, Sandra, a school and the New York State Bicycle Racing 150 miles a week. On a recent outing, he nurse teacher, live in Walden with their Association Championship (both category completed 6,000 feet of climbing over a six-year-old son, Thomas, who spends a 4) uses the same strategies in his pursuit 45-mile stretch. lot of time riding his BMX bike. of victory in cycle racing. “Basically, we just climbed four Hill says he is proud to be part of an Four years ago, Hill was content to mountains that day,” Hill said. “I go out “Oswego Family.” His mother, Deborah

p r with the goal of torturing Dixson Hill ’66 and father, Paul Hill ’66, ov i d e myself.” By pushing beyond met in Symphonic Choir when Dr. Maurice the limits of the previous Boyd was the director. Before retirement, training session, Hill builds Paul taught chemistry at Newburgh Free strength and endurance. As Academy, and Deborah was a reading a positive side benefit, he specialist at the elementary level. Both has lost 50 to 60 pounds work part-time in college-level education and gained stamina. programs. “Racing is a great moti- “My parents were careful not to influ- vation to get in shape,” Hill ence me in my college decision,” Hill said. said. “Every pound on your “I had a few choices in mind, but when body, you carry with you I visited the campus, that clinched it for on every cycling session. me.” He majored in Zoology and Spanish Having that race goal in at Oswego, and earned a master’s of sci- my mind, reaching for the ence degree at Fordham University. win, helps me focus on my Hill’s mother is not surprised that he health and fitness.” has excelled at road racing. “Tom was Keeping the lead As NYSBRA champion, always a good athlete,” she said, “and he in the Tour de Syracuse in May is category 4, Hill could have loves moving fast.” Still, it is the slower, Tom Hill ’96 who been content to maintain more serene moments at his alma mater won first place in the status quo. But, instead, that stay with him today. category 4 and he has continued to train “I’ll always be grateful for the years I captured the New hard and compete aggres- spent at Oswego,” Hill said. “Some of my York State Bicycle Racing Association sively. By conquering his fondest memories are those of just relax- Championship. own best times and adding ing at the shore with friends.” l wins, he has moved to cate- —Linda Loomis ’90 M’97

39 Oswego l Summer 2013 Class Notes

Commentary Editor stands ‘on the front line of history’ p r

Landing a job in Los Angeles after ov i d e graduation, Michelle Rene Garcia ’06 con- Michelle Rene tinues to work for a cause she values. At The Garcia ’06 in her professional pho- Advocate, a gay rights magazine, she began tograph for The as a temporary hire and advanced to com Advocate, where mentary editor. she is commen- “We’re on the front line of history,” she tary editor. says. “In the seven years I’ve been here, I’ve witnessed a massive sea change in the way Americans view gay rights.” She notes the milestones of justice: a president who supports the freedom to marry and still gets re-elected; positive representations in the media, a dozen states legalizing marriage equality, and LGBT people, including celebrities and athletes, coming out to their families, friends and coworkers. “Equality isn’t just an issue of the gay agenda or some lobbying group, a faceless ‘they.’ Now, it’s about someone’s son, or sister or best friend. It’s personal, and people are remembering that personal is political again.” After graduation, Garcia, who was active on the Oswegonian and worked as a resident Studies, says all her interests, education and assistant, and her husband, Adam Campbell- experience have come together in her career Schmitt ’06, headed to L. A., where Adam, a and in the screenwriting she’s doing on the broadcast major, works as a stage director and side. comedy writer. “Thirty years from now, I can look back at “We met at Oswego, doing improv. ‘Cause this time and say: I was there. I was part of that’s what the cool kids do.” history.” Garcia, who majored in Journalism with —Linda Loomis ’90 M ’97 minors in Political Science and Women’s

Oswego l Summer 2013 40 Class Notes

Journalism Degree Leads Alumna to Dream Job as Cook p r

We call it “serendipity” when dreams ov i d e come true. Nicole Castro Pursel ’09 says she’s had a brush with that unexplainable good fortune in her career. After completing an internship at Time Warner Sports and earning her degree in journalism, she accepted an administrative assistant position at Wegmans in her hometown of Rochester. One lucky day, she was asked to help out with the monthly “Wegmans Cooks” segment on Bridge Street, a Syracuse-based morning television show, where Chris Brandolino ’96 is one of the hosts. Pursel says all her experiences and education kicked in once she was suited up and on the set. “My Oswego experience as an on-air talent Nicole Castro Pursel ’09 prepares a meal as she for WTOP and my journalism background in learns the basics of French cooking in “boot camp” gathering and presenting information clearly at the Culinary Institute. and accurately really helped.” Inspired by her experience on Bridge Street, Pursel applied for a transfer from desk she and her husband, Robert Pursel, a teacher to kitchen, and she’s now an administrative at West Carthage Elementary School, enjoy cook for the Rochester-based retail grocer, their Central Square home and reap the ben- working in the Liverpool store. With the head efits of Pursel’s passion for preparing whole- chef, she oversees food preparation, organizes some delicious food. ordering and helps train food workers. — Linda Loomis ’90 M ’97 “I love my job,” she says. “It’s a dream come true.” As for that cooking show of her own. Well, someday, perhaps. But for now,

41 Oswego l Summer 2013 -

Class Notes

Jamie Stack Leszczynski ’04 10x10+10 (100 words) + 10 random questions

She buys. She sells. She rolls. She rocks. ABC Creative Group account manager/media supervisor by day and Port City Roller Derby’s J-Rock-It by night, Jamie Stack Leszczynski ’04 traces it all back to Oswego, where she fell in love with marketing—and her husband—and now lives in town with her family. Jamie launched her career at Oswego County National Bank, where an internship turned into a job as marketing manager.

“I absolutely loved my time as a student,” she says. “I did everything I could . . . to build my portfolio from being the sales manager at the Oswegonian to doing as many internships as possible.” p r

ov i d e 1) One good marketing tip anyone the Oswego County SAVE chap- can use: ter (Suicide Awareness Voices of Life is like an apple. When you’re Education). I co-chair a walk on green you’re growing. When you’re campus every year that draws in ripe, you rot. You have to stay fresh more than 500 students and commu- all the time! nity members. Another thing I 2) One bad idea everyone should avoid: was able to cross off my bucket list Trying to eat Ramen noodles while was establishing a scholarship in my driving. brother’s name. 3) One good reason to see a roller 6) Greatest Oswego moment: derby bout: i would have to say the first week of Women of all shapes and sizes, from classes and meeting my husband. all walks of life, confronting each 7) Toughest Oswego class: other on the rink and having a smile OMG. Psychology 101. on their faces afterward! 8) Easiest decision: 4) One good reason to give Staying in Oswego and helping my back to Oswego: husband with his business (Dynamic Jamie Stack Leszczynski ’04 returned to her Many people don’t know this, but Sound & Security) and raising a alma mater as associate director of annual giving when they were students, alumni family. We just fell in love with the in the Office of Alumni and University Development were donating to the college, and they before joining ABC Creative Group in Syracuse community. personally benefited from their dona- and remains an active alumna via the Alumni-In- 9) Coolest car accessory: Residence program. tion—whether in the form of lowered tuition, improvements to dorms and Sirius radio! Especially with my classrooms, or updated technology. commute in the morning—oh and We all need to pay it forward! a cup holder for my morning Joe! 5) Proudest achievement: 10) Nicest on-campus place to visit: i have a ton—my kids, my husband Definitely the Campus Center and and probably one of my biggest going to a hockey game! would be my work as co-chair for

Oswego l Summer 2013 42 Class Notes

Oswego Service Projects Sparked Fire for Volunteering Oswego in Peace Corps Worker Matters Shannon Linehan ’10 has returned from a 27- By Executive Director month long journey to Zambia, where she served as a Peace Betsy Oberst Corps Volunteer under the Rural Education Development elationships. Connections. Program. These two ideas came to While in the Peace Corps, Linehan taught eighth and ninth- life for me in very meaning- grade English, established a secure and functioning community R ful ways starting with Reunion preschool and created a Parent-Teacher Association. She also 2013. This was my husband coordinated a pen-pal exchange project with an eighth-grade Jerry’s ’77 35th cluster reunion, classroom in Zambia and a school in northern California where so many of our long-time Oswego students were encouraged to practice their writing skills and friends returned to campus, and exchange cultural perspectives. we shared memories and laughter She planned and held weekly sessions of Girls Leading Our galore, the joys that really only happen with those people with World (G.L.O.W.) club, an empowerment organization focusing whom you have long-time relation- on leadership, confidence and decision making. Linehan wrote ships and experiences. and received a grant to fund a weeklong session of Camp During Reunion Weekend, the Board of Directors of the Oswego G.L.O.W. Alumni Association holds its annual meeting. Board member Judy Linehan says she found inspiration at Oswego after involv- Letvak ’83, one of Oswego’s most loyal cheerleaders, ambassadors and ing herself with the alternative spring and winter break pro- advocates, was with us for the last time. She was unable to attend most gram through the Office of Service Learning and Community of the Reunion Weekend activities, but she did attend the Board meeting. Service. Unexpectedly, Judy passed away just two weeks later. The outpouring from alumni—fellow Board members, her wide circle of “I feel like I owe so much of my starting point to these close friends from the ’80s who still gather annually, and recent alumni programs at Oswego,” Linehan said. friends she had mentored in their post-Oswego job searches— —Brittany Hoffmann ’14 was testament both to Judy and to the power of relationships and connections we make at Oswego. p r

ov i d e The relationship Jerry and I have with magazine cover feature George Wurtz ’78 and his wife, Nancy, goes back more than 30 years —when we were all young, newly married and starting families and careers. George and Nancy lived in Fulton, where George started what was the beginning of a successful career in industry at Miller Brewing. Nancy was my Lamaze teacher and the nurse who helped deliver our first two children. George and Nancy moved away in the mid-1980s, but we have reconnected as George has engaged with Oswego and our students in many meaningful ways. And then there is this issue of the magazine. When Michele Reed, our most recent editor, retired last spring, we had to move quickly to ensure we continued to get OSWEGO in the hands of our readers without interruption! We reached out to our two previous editors, Denise Owen Harrigan—“Denny” to those of us in the Alumni Office—and Linda Morley Loomis ’90 M ’97. They enthusiastically agreed to sign on, along with Michele, to produce this, “the alumni editors reunion” issue. It’s been a joy to reconnect with Denny and remember when we worked together in the Alumni Office in the ’80s and ’90s—and to see Linda again almost daily as she shepherded this issue to print. So, my message? Cherish your friendships, relationships and connections. Don’t wait to reconnect. Come back to your next Oswego reunion, reach out and encourage those you knew when you were here to come back too. In the meantime, reconnect with friends and classmates through our new and improved OsweGoConnect online alumni community!

43 Oswego l Summer 2013 WEDDINAlbumG ]

Jessica Miller ’05 and Greg Brewster ’05 were married on Sept. 8, 2012 in Boston, Mass. Pictured from the left, Patrick Tobiasson ’07, Kathleen Dolan Tobiasson Kara Hopkins Pederson ’07, M ’09 ’06, Fred Vigeant ’02, Michele Joyner and Jason Pederson ’07 were married Vigeant ’04, Chris VerSchneider ’10, Chris October 13, 2012 at Bay Shore Grove in Cherkis ’05, Matthew Lystad ’06, Matthew Oswego. Pictured in the front row from Gabriel ’04, Whitney Lash Marshall ’06, the left are alumni Don Neels ’70, Bethany Joseph Miner ’09 and Heather Elizabeth Jenny Hawley ’06, and Nancy Zielinski ’06. Zehr ’07 M’09, Erin Frederick ’07, M’09, Berkley of Watertown were married on Jessica is a commercial property manager, Keely Duffany ’08, Katherine Ralston ’07, Oct. 13 at the Watertown Elks Lodge. and Greg is the electronics specialist for Diana Major ’08, Chris Hill ’09, and Keri Joseph graduated from Oswego with a SUNY Oswego’s theatre department. Kissane ’09. Pictured in the back row are bachelor’s degree in childhood education. Joel Ralston ’06, Eric Romano ’07, M’09, He is an applied behavior analyst therapist and Mike Hagadorn ’08, M’09. Kara and for Three Tier Consulting in Watertown. Jason live in Albany. Brenda Grossi ’06 and Adam Tabolt ’05 M ’06 were married October 13, 2012 at The Radisson Hotel in Utica, NY. Alumni in attendance included front row from left, are: Laura Pavlus ’09, Kristen Karwowski ’06, bride, Shauna Pauli Korn ‘05, Carissa Titus Rockwell ’05 M ‘06, Douglas Raineri ‘08, Julia Hodnett ’05 M ‘09. Picture back row from left: Mary Schiraldi Lee ’06, Johannah Harp Brown ’06, Scott Brown ’06, Henre Hamblin ‘05, bridegroom, Andrew Barton ‘05, Russel Korn ‘05, Jason Rockwell ’05, Jason Barton ‘05, Dan Steere ‘07, and Christina Donlan Raineri ’08. The couple resides in Liverpool.

Oswego l Summer 2013 44 In memoriam

Edward Dexter ’35 of Sykesville, Md. 11 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and passed away Feb. 8, 2013. her sister, Annamae Donovan ’42. Esther King Hawthorne ’37 of Liverpool Arlene Fix Stenuf ’47 of Skaneateles passed died May 10, 2013. She was also a graduate of away Jan. 17, 2013. She earned her master’s Syracuse University. She had been a teacher in degree at Syracuse University. Arlene taught in the Ithaca and Syracuse City School Districts, Fairmount and in Virginia. She is survived by a retiring after 37 years. Esther is survived by a sis- daughter, a son; and four grandchildren. ter, and nieces and nephews. Doris Turner Brown Beach ’48 of Sackets Margaret Mullen Madey ’36 of Phoe- Harbor died Jan. 25, 2013. Doris taught kin- nix died Feb. 18, 2013. She taught in the Mex- dergarten, first in Holland Patent, then in Sack- ico Central School District. Together with her ets Harbor until her retirement. Surviving are husband, Mitchell, they ran Madey Grocery in seven children, 20 grandchildren, and 15 great- Oswego. Upon her return to Phoenix, she was grandchildren. a substitute teacher in the Phoenix School Dis- Carol Baldwin ’49 of Farmingdale, NY died trict. Feb. 19, 2013. Before retiring, Carol taught in Dorothy Laurentine Blanchard ’37 of the North Bellmore School District. Martville passed away Dec. 28, 2012. She taught John Day ’49 of Green Valley, Ariz. died for more than 20 years, first in one-room Jan. 28, 2013. He served with the U.S. Army Air schoolhouses, then at Cato-Meridian Central Corp during WWII. John taught industrial arts School. Dorothy is survived by two daughters, in Fairfield and Westport for 34 years. Surviv- one son, and many grandchildren and great- ing are his wife, Evelyn; four children; and eight grandchildren. grandchildren. John Corso ’42 of Mexico passed away Elaine Doyle Stratton ’49 of Los Alamos, April 25, 2013. He served with the U.S. Army N.M. died March 5, 2013. She earned a master’s during WWII. John taught at Pennsylvania degree at New York University. Elaine is survived State University for 10 years, and was chair of by her husband, Thomas; and two daughters. the psychology department at SUNY Cortland Edward Vanca ’49 of Binghamton passed for 20 years. He is survived by his wife, Linda; away Jan. 25, 2009. He served with the Army three children; five grandchildren and one Air Corps during WWII. Edward earned a mas- great-grandchild. ter’s degree from Columbia University in 1953. Donald Henry ’43 of Bradenton, Fla. He retired after teaching cabinet making for 32 passed away July 16, 2011. He taught industrial years at Binghamton North High School. He is arts in the Ithaca School District for 34 years. survived by his wife, Amy ’49; a son, two daugh- Surviving are his wife, Genevieve Walker ’42; ters; and four grandchildren. four sons; a daughter; 14 grandchildren; and 6 Harold Cloud ’50 of Claremont, N.H. great-grandchildren. passed away Jan. 22, 2013. “Dusty” served with Betty Slade Buchanan Lowe ’43 of Phoenix the U.S. Army during WWII. He earned mas- passed away May 4, 2013. She was an art teacher ter’s degrees in secondary education and guid- in the Phoenix Central School District for ance. He worked for many years at West Baby- many years. Betty is survived by her son; James lon Junior High School. Dusty is survived by his Buchanan; three grandchildren; a great-grand- wife, Donna; a daughter; six grandchildren; one Justine Vehrs ’07, M ’08 and Carl son; and a great-great-granddaughter. great-grandson; two stepsons; and two step- Nylen ’07, M ’11 were married July Marian Hudson Fanning ’44 of Volney grandchildren. 15, 2011 at First United Methodist Church in Liverpool. A reception passed away April 29, 2013. Marian taught for Lucile Smith Easterbrook ’50 of Oxford, was held in the grand ballroom of 34 years, first in Port Byron, then at the Moses Miss. passed away Feb. 13, 2013. She taught in the DoubleTree Hotel in Syracuse DeWitt Elementary School in Dewitt. She is the Elmira-Corning area. Lucile was prede- and the couple honeymooned on survived by her husband, Fay; children, Fred ceased by her husband, Charles ’49, and is sur- back-to-back cruises. Justine and ’93, and Mary Ellen Guyette; five grandchildren; vived by two sons and four granddaughters. Carl began dating in high school and both lived in Funnelle Hall and a great-grandson. Rita Gunshor Wax ’50 of Miami passed throughout their undergradu- Ethel Crumb Buell ’47 of Casper, Wyo. away Dec. 22, 2012. She had been a teacher and ate years. Justine is an English passed away March 8, 2009. administrator in the Miami-Dade County pub- teacher at Fulton High School and Helen Longhway Kaiser ’47 of Gulf Breeze, lic school system. Rita is survived by her hus- Carl teaches Chemistry at Pulaski Fla. died Feb. 4, 2013. She taught in Mexico band, Ira ’49; two children; and two grandchil- High School. They have both been teaching for five years. The couple and at Kingsford Park Elementary School in dren. makes their home in Fulton. Oswego. She was predeceased by her husband, Thomas Carpenter, M ’51 of Bend, Ore- Robert ’48. Helen is survived by four daughters; gon died Feb. 24, 2013. He earned his bach-

45 Oswego l Summer 2013 In memoriam elor’s degree at Hamilton College in 1942. He Mary Etman Rucci ’54 of Suffern, N.Y. Center for Vocational Technical Education in served with the U.S. Navy during WWII. Tom passed away Nov. 28, 2012. Mary retired from Columbus, Ohio. Upon his return to New York, taught English in Overbrook, Pa., Port Leyden, the Ramapo Central School District after teach- he worked for the NYS Department of Educa- and Boonville, retiring in 1980. Surviving are ing for 27 years. She is survived by her husband, tion, then as director of education for the NYS two sons, a stepson, two grandchildren, and two Alphonso; two sons; a daughter; five grandchil- Department of Corrections until his retirement great-grandchidren. dren; and a great-grandchild. in 1975. In retirement, he worked as a consul- Katherine Farnsworth Loope ’51 of Man- David Star ’55 of Maale Adumim, Israel, tant and taught at community colleges and uni- lius died April 30, 2013. She earned her master’s formerly of Schenectady died Jan. 19, 2012. versities. Raymond is survived by his wife, Betty; degree at Syracuse University. Katherine taught He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. David was a two sons; four grandchildren; and three great- kindergarten for 25 years in the Fayetteville- teacher in the Schenectady City School District grandchildren. Manlius School District. She is survived by a for almost 30 years. Surviving are his wife, Rita; Judy Fry Maihofer ’61 of Baldwinsville daughter, a son; and two grandsons. three daughters; a son; 23 adoring grandchil- passed away Dec. 24, 2012. She was also a grad- David O’Leary ’51 of Jensen Beach, Fla. dren; and 14 great-grandchildren. uate of Columbia University Teachers College. died May 23, 2012. David served in the U.S. Barbara Gour Gauding ’56 of Spring Hill, Judy taught in the Peekskill and Ossining school Army during the Korean War. He taught in the Fla. died Feb. 14, 2011. She was a retired real districts and for the Southern Westchester Scotia Glenville Central School District and the estate agent with Beck Builders in Spring Hill, BOCES. She is survived by her husband, Walter Burnt-Hills Ballston Lake Central School Dis- and taught second grade in Kenmore and Bald- ’60; a son; a daughter; and two grandsons. trict, retiring in 1984. He was an instructor for winsville, NY. She is survived by her husband, Jane Garono Domon ’64 of Mayville, Easy Method Driving School from 1988 until Donald ’58; a daughter; three sons; and nine passed away Jan. 23, 2013. Surviving are her hus- 2000. He was predeceased by his wife, Florence grandchildren. band, Robert; three sons; and seven grandchil- Boyce ’51 and sisters, Ursula Kingston ’46 and Thomas Schrader ’56 of Latham, N.Y. died dren. Rosemary Knight ‘52. David is survived by a Nov. 26, 2009. He retired in 1986 after a 30-year Patricia Russell Secrest ’64 of Silver Lake, daughter, Khris Hodgson. career teaching industrial arts in Laurens Cen- Ohio passed away Dec. 21, 2012. She taught in William Rosenberg ’51 of Miami passed tral School District and East Greenbush Central Syracuse and later in Washington, D.C. Patty away April 11, 2013. He served with the U.S. School District. Surviving are his wife, Barbara; is survived by her husband, Don; her children, Army during the Korean War. He earned his three children; and four grandchildren. Jennifer and Ryan; and two grandchildren. Con- master’s degree in 1960 at Hofstra Univer- Ann Westover Johnson ’57 of North Syra- tributions for a memorial bench on the SUNY sity. William had a long career in teaching with cuse died March 1, 2013. Prior to her retirement, Oswego campus may be made to the Oswego the Miami-Dade County Public Schools as a she was a teacher in the Liverpool School Dis- College Foundation, 215 Sheldon Hall, Oswego, teacher and administrator. He served as princi- trict for 28 years. Ann is survived by her hus- NY 13126. pal at James L. Bright Elementary School in Hia- band, Bruce; three children; two step-children; Carolyn Zumbrun ’64 of New Hartford leah until his retirement in 1992. He is survived six grandchildren; and three great-grandchil- passed away Dec. 28, 2012. She was also a grad- by his wife, Floraine Unger ’53; a son; a daugh- dren. uate of Syracuse University. Carolyn taught in ter; and five grandchildren. Frank Galletti ’58 of North Baldwin, N.Y. the Suffern and Oriskany School Districts, at the Adrian Meister ’52 of State College, Penn. passed away Nov. 12, 2012. He is survived by his Crane Hill School in Marcy, and at the Mohawk died Jan. 27, 2013. He served with the U.S. Navy wife, Marcia Jacobs ’58, and two children. Valley Psychiatric Center in Pinefield for over 30 during WWII. Adrian taught industrial arts at Audrey Naughton VanBrocklin ’58 of Bris- years. She is survived by a brother, a sister, and Baldwinsville High School, then was an artisan tol, Conn. died June 28, 2012. She earned her many nieces and nephews. for General Electric for 30 years. He is survived master’s degree at Columbia University Teach- William Vale ’65 of Oriskany, died Dec. 28, by a daughter, two sons, seven grandchildren; ers College. Prior to retirement in 1997, she 2012. Prior to his retirement in 1998, he taught and three great-grandchildren. taught mathematics in Levittown, NY and West in the Whitesboro School District at Deerfield Jeanne Marie Powell O’Brien ’52 of Con- Hartford, Conn. She is survived by her husband, Elementary for 33 years. stableville, N.Y. passed away Jan. 2, 2013. She Owen ’57, two sons; and four grandsons. Timothy Morell ’69 of Leesburg, Fla. passed began her teaching career at Boonville Central Lee Carey ’59 of Centerville, Mass. died away Jan. 21, 2013. He is survived by his parents, School, and taught for 30 years at Constableville June 14, 2012. He was a professor at Bergen Eugene and Angelina; his wife, Marguerite; two Central School, retiring in 1991. She was prede- Community College prior to his retirement. children and four grandchildren. ceased by her husband, Stuart and her daughter. Raymond Reisenger ’59 of Schenectady Thomas Jackson ’70 of Syracuse passed Gloria Rankell Rudolph ’53 of Delray died Dec. 13, 2012. He served in the U.S. Air away May 20, 2013. He taught sixth grade in the Beach, Fla. died Jan. 10, 2010. Forces in the Pacific Theater during WWII. Chittenango School District for 32 years. Tom is Maureen Doyle Baer ’54 of Redlands, Calif. Raymond earned his master’s degree at SUNY survived by his wife, Linda Calver ’69; two chil- passed away Jan. 4, 2013. She is survived by her Albany and his doctorate at Ohio State. He dren; his mother; and four brothers, including son, Robert. taught in Binghamton, Amsterdam and Sche- Daniel ’75. Donald Jones ’54 of Mohawk, died Feb. nectady. During the mid-1960s he was an asso- Barbara Hoebeler Diffendale ’73 of Mal- 22, 2013. He taught industrial arts at Little Falls ciate professor at SUNY Oswego, serving as the verne, N.Y. passed away Aug. 19, 2012. Prior to Central School. Don is survived by his wife, Albany regional director of 24 counties for the retiring, she taught math at Long Beach Mid- Ann; five sons; 13 grandchildren; and one great- teacher training programs. He then served as dle School. Surviving are her husband, William; grandchild. the NYS research associate at the new Ohio State three children; and six grandchildren.

Oswego l Summer 2013 46 Steven Forman ’73 of Camillus passed Howard Seigel ’79 of Clearwater, Fla. died & Tax Preparations until her retirement in 2005. away Nov. 15, 2012. He was a graduate of the Feb. 2, 2013. He earned his DPM from New York Surviving are her husband, Roy; two children; University of Milan, Italy, Medical School and College of Podiatric Medicine. Howard is sur- and four grandchildren. the LeMoyne College Physician Assistant Pro- vived by two sons. Joseph Cahill ’94 of Boulder, Colo. died gram. Steven was most recently employed at Gordon “Jim” Van Liew ’80 of Greenville, April 28, 2013. He was a lighting designer in Syracuse Community Health Center. He was N.C. died Jan. 23, 2013. the music industry. Surviving are his mother, an Eagle Scout. Steven is survived by his wife, Dale Davis ’81 of Oswego passed away Jan. Regina; a daughter, Cassidy; three brothers; and Donna Coloton ‘73; and a daughter. 28, 2013. He was a self-employed contractor. two sisters. Denise Palumbo ’73 of Ballston Spa passed “Chip” is survived by his father, Dale; a daugh- Angela Bellardini ’95 of Washington, D.C. away Feb. 13, 2013. She worked for General ter, Sarah; a son, Kyle ’07; three sisters, Deborah died May 18, 2013. She earned her master’s Electric Power Turbine Division as a technical Sprague ’90; Laurie Yule ’85; and Kimberlee degree at Catholic University and was a librarian instructor prior to retiring. Denise is survived Buskey; and two step-siblings. at the College of Nursing and Science at Catho- by her life partner, Bernadine Peterson; her Judy Letvak ’83, of New York City, passed lic University. Surviving are her parents, Ernest mother; and a son. away June 23, 2013. She was a member of the and Mary; and four brothers, including Chris- Paul Stockmyer ’73 of Scipio Center, died Oswego Alumni Association Board of Direc- topher ’85. June 18, 2011. He was a pastor at Scott Meth- tors since 2009 and was active as a mentor to Patrick McGarry ’97 of Glenville, passed odist Church. Paul is survived by his wife, Kath- Oswego students and graduates. Judy was pre- away Oct. 20, 2011. He received his master’s leen; two sons; and five grandchildren. viously the manager of Madison Square Gar- degree from the College of St. Rose. Pat taught Peter Hartin ’75 of Virginia Beach passed dens Human Management Systems. She was a at Zoller Elementary School in Schenectady. He away May 14, 2013. He worked in telecommuni- volunteer for and supporter of the Metastatic had previously taught at Woodlawn Elementary cation sales for 34 years, first with Motorola, then Breast Cancer Network and the Leukemia and School and at the International Charter School with Nextel and Sprint. He was recently hired at Lymphoma Society. She is survived by her par- of Schenectady. Surviving are his parents, Greg Gately Communications. Peter is survived by his ents, two brothers, a sister, nieces and nephews and June; two brothers and a sister. wife, Bobbi Collins ’74; and three sons. and a large circle of Oswego friends. Gifts in Lisa Teifke Domicolo ’00 M ’06 of Mex- Larry Fleischer ’76 of Bennington, N.H. Judy’s memory may be sent to the Oswego Col- ico passed away March 14, 2013. She was a first died July 6, 2012. He had worked as a social lege Foundation, 215 Sheldon Hall, State Uni- grade teacher at New Haven Elementary School. worker for 30 years. Larry is survived by his wife, versity of New York, Oswego, N.Y. 13126. Surviving are her husband, Michael; a daughter; Christine; and a daughter. Lois Roccato ’87 of Albuquerque, .died Jan. and a son. Gary Ingersoll ’76 of Camillus passed away 28, 2013. Matthew Leonardo ’05 of Penfield passed May 26, 2013. He retired recently as vice presi- Lisa Sweazey Topoleski ’89 of Freeville, away March 17, 2013. He is survived by his par- dent of Edward Joy Electric Company. Surviv- passed away Feb. 12, 2013. She received her mas- ents, Joseph and Marcelline; a brother; and three ing are his wife, Susan Higgins ’69; a son, Gary; ter’s degree from San Diego State. She taught in sisters. a daughter, Megan Walters ’04; a stepson, Ryan the South Seneca School District and the Lan- Joseph Kendrick ’10 of Liverpool passed Meehan; and three grandchildren. sing Central School District. Surviving are her away April 30, 2013. He was the owner and oper- Thomas Lenihan ’76 of St. Peterburg, Fla. husband, Daniel; and three daughters. ator of Custom Cleanout Champs in Auburn. and Skaneateles passed away on March 20, 2013. Lori Bresnahan ’91 of Liverpool died Surviving are a sister and four brothers. He earned his MBA at the Mason School of March 14, 2013. She earned her master’s degree Ian Cuthill, former Visiting Professor in Business at the College of William and Mary. at Syracuse University. Lori was a school librar- the School of Business passed away April 21, Tom worked for MetLife for 30 years, retiring in ian in the Liverpool School District and had 2013. He was a graduate of the Royal Institute 2009. He was the chair of the Oswego College previously worked in the Oswego and Syra- of Chemistry in London, earned an MBA at the Foundation’s Investment Committee. Tom is cuse City School Districts. She is survived by her University of Chicago, and a Ph.D. from Syra- survived by his wife, Lynn Van Order ’76; a son, daughter and her mother. cuse University. Surviving are his wife, Jean; four Brian; and a daughter, Colleen. Contributions Margaret Reilly Harrigan ’91 M ’96 of Syra- children; and nine grandchildren. in Tom’s memory can be made to the Oswego cuse passed away April 22, 2013. She was a gradu- John Schluep, Emeritus Professor of College Foundation, 215 Sheldon Hall, Oswego, ate of Central City Business Institute and Onon- Mathematics passed away Feb. 2, 2013. He NY 13126. daga Community College. She began her teach- earned a bachelor’s degree at Hartwick College Joyce Cambareri Trogdon ’76 of Darling- ing career at Bellevue Heights Nursery School. and a master’s degree at Columbia University. ton, S.C. died Feb. 10, 2013. She is survived After completing her bachelor’s degree, Peggy John served with the U.S. Navy in WWII. He by her husband, John; four children; and two taught at John T. Roberts Elementary School co-authored several books, including a series of grandchildren. until her retirement in 2012. Surviving are two math textbooks for elementary schools. Surviv- Gary Illingworth ’79 of Oswego died sons, a daughter; and eight grandchildren. ing are his wife, Betty; three children; six grand- March 26, 2013. He was a 20-year veteran of the Sue Fulkerson ’92, M ’97 of Adams, passed children; and four great-grandchildren. New York Air National Guard. Surviving are his away Feb. 8, 2013. She earned an associate’s wife, Janet Hampton ’65; and two daughters, degree from Jefferson Community College. Sue Heather ’05 and Sarah. was the proprietor of Business Help Accounting

47 Oswego l Summer 2013 The Last

All of Equal Value

(This excerpt from Someone, for good. He saw “To make a long his side of it. The pain of a father a work of fiction, is set in the the air was now story short, a German losing a child. There wouldn’t aftermath of World War II. In this blue and there officer showed up— have been any pain like that on chapter, author Alice McDermott was a serene officer hell, he looked my side, since I had no father. ’75 writes about a returned airman patchwork world all of eighteen—and So it wouldn’t have been equal.” telling his near-death story and beneath him. gave the old man Hail There was an awkward explaining his miraculous reprieve. Even children Columbia in German, silence. And then my brother said McDermott’s lyrical novel exam- running across a and then told me in softly, “We’re all of equal value in ines an ordinary woman’s life as churchyard, into a field, and he English to get out of the harness the eyes of God.” it is lived day by day in an Irish- thought—“I kid you not” he said and follow him—mach schnell—if Tom turned to him with American Brooklyn neighborhood.) in his the-joke’s-on-me way— I wanted to live. It took me a few some admiration. “Well, that’s a “now, this isn’t so bad. I could get minutes to get it. I thought I was nicer way to think of it,” he said. is parachute training, Tom used to this.” already dead.” He said, “That’s a good point,” Hsaid, had been short and per- The children were the first to He laughed again. He was and smiled again before he added, functory, and after a few easy mis- reach him when he fell, tumbling enjoying our attention. He was a “But that don’t mean some of us sions, he’d stopped even imagining back to the hard earth, busting up man who loved to talk. won’t leave this world without himself jumping out of a plane. his shoulder, breaking his wrist. “This fellow grabbed me anyone much taking notice.” When the order came, the plane “But those kids,” he said, under the arm. I was still wobbly- shuddering—like a subway car “That was the luck of the Irish, it kneed, shaking like a leaf. He told going over cobblestones, he said— turned out.” me the old man was crazy, crazy he gripped the door. He seriously Because, he said, the next with grief. He’d learned just the considered just hanging on. Going thing he knew a mad old Kraut day before that his son, his only down with the ship. But then he was pointing a Luger at his head, child, a German airman, had been felt a push from behind and then so close that he could smell the killed by the Allies. So he was out he dropped into the worst night- hot metal. “He was in a tizzy,” for revenge. He would have put mare anybody ever had: cloud, Tom said. “Mad as hell,” and he a bullet in my head if those kids smoke, the thick smell of the fuel. apologized to my mother for his hadn’t been there.” A dream’s endless falling. language. “I couldn’t understand “An eye for an eye,” my He laughed telling it, as if it anything he said but ‘kinder,’ brother said. were a joke and the joke was on waving the goddamn gun”—he Tom sat forward. He shook him. apologized again—“and telling his head. “But here’s the thing.” He said he only remembered me, I guess, that he’d like to blow He was smiling oddly, with less after he had pulled the parachute my brains out except for the kids mirth than before. “Here’s the cord—touching his forehead in who were there, all around us. way I looked at it. If the old guy a comic gesture of despair—that He even tried to chase them away, had shot me, then and there, it he was supposed to count to ten but they were having too much wouldn’t have been the same. It Alice McDermott ’75 is the before he pulled it, not after. And fun, throwing little handfuls of wouldn’t have been equal.” author of seven novels, including then he counted anyway, a second mud in my direction, yelling their He turned to my mother, as Someone; After This; Child of My too late. heads off. So much excitement. if she alone needed an explana- Heart; Charming Billy, winner of And then out of the noise You know how kids are.” He tion. “I was an orphan, you see,” the 1998 National Book Award; of the worst and loudest sound laughed and touched his fingers he told her. “A Foundling Home and At Weddings and Wakes, all he had ever heard and hoped to the teacup. “The crazy old kid. I had no father to grieve me. published by FSG. That Night, never to hear again he fell into Kraut had enough decency not So it wouldn’t have evened out, if At Weddings and Wakes, and dead silence. Nothing at all, he to want to shoot me in front of he’d shot me right then and there. After This were all finalists for said—and held out his hands and them.” There would have been no coun- the Pulitzer Prize. In June, she made his eyes wide to replicate his My mother put her hands to terpart, no American counterpart, was inducted into the New York astonishment. her lips and said, “Glory be.” so to speak, to match that poor State Writers Hall of Fame 2013. So suddenly quiet that he Tom gave a self-deprecating old Kraut and his grief. There still McDermott lives with her family thought his ears were blown out wave of his hand. “Well,” he said. would have been more pain on outside Washington, D.C. l

Oswego l Summer 2013 48 TODAY’S President’s Circle

In 1985, The President’s Circle was created to gather our closest We have one interest alumni, friends and supporters into a giving society to highlight their “ and one aim – generous philanthropy. The initial giving levels were established to raise this School to reflect the financial climate and needs of the college at that time. to its highest Almost 30 years later, we have updated The President’s Circle to degree of usefulness. reflect today’s economy and the current need for annual giving ” to support student scholarships, enhance academic programs – Dr. Edward Austin Sheldon and ensure continued growth of the college. Quarter Centennial Celebration July 7, 1887 Please consider joining today’s President’s Circle. Become a partner. Become a leader.

Thank you for your consideration, support and commitment to SUNY Oswego. d

Introducing … TODAY’S President’s Circle! Pillar Society: $1,000 - $1,860

1861 Founder’s Society: $1,861 - $2,499

Ontarian Society: $2,500 - $4,999

Ambassador Society: $5,000 - $9,999

Torchbearer Society: $10,000 - $24,999

Medallion Society: $25,000 +

STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK AT OSWEGO Office of University Development • 215 Sheldon Hall • Oswego, NY 13126 Phone: 315.312.3003 • Fax: 315.312.4004 alumni.oswego.edu/presidentscircle • E-mail: [email protected] Nonprofit US Postage PAID Oswego Alumni Association King Alumni Hall Oswego, NY 13126 If Oswego is addressed to a son or daughter who has graduated and no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please clip the address label and return it with the correct address to the Oswego Alumni Association, SUNY Oswego, Oswego, NY 13126, or email the updated address to [email protected]

Growing a new generation of energized leaders. For more, visit oswego.edu/core. Please recycle this magazine.

Luciano Iorizzo Ji m

n the cozy dining room of his home on the what makes it worthwhile—to see young ’83Russ ell Iwest side of Oswego, Professor Emeritus people develop,” he says. of History Luciano Iorizzo positions He and Marilee both served as his beloved stand-up bass next advisers to Greek groups —Alpha to a grandfather clock. It’s a Delta Eta and Alpha Sigma favorite of his wife of 60 years, Chi, and former sisters still Marilee, and it stands near a get in touch. print by Professor Emeritus of Art The World War II veteran Tom Seawell, “American Album earned his bachelor’s, master’s —Missouri.” The memories come and doctoral degrees at Syracuse flooding back. University’s Maxwell School. “Tom and I started at Oswego together, When he joined the Oswego faculty in 1962, around 1962,” Iorizzo recalls. And he vividly history was part of the social sciences depart- remembers his first office—in the barracks of ment, and Iorizzo taught alongside scholars in Splinter Village, shared with the late Raymond economics, sociology, and other disciplines, Wedlake, History department, and Music before history became its own department in Family is a big focus for the Iorizzos. The Professors Dr. Anthony Crain, Dr. Mailynn 1966. He taught courses in the history of the walls of their home are adorned with photos of Smiley and the late Dr. James Soluri, who got U. S., New York state and the labor movement. their five children, 12 grandchildren, and two Iorizzo to play bass for “The Fantastiks” and He developed a popular course in immigration great grandchildren, and the doorjamb into “Once Upon a Mattress” in Oswego’s summer history, which led to one on organized crime, the kitchen bears pencil marks noting their theatre. and the two topics became the lifelong focus growth. But for the founder and first chair of of his scholarly research. One of Iorizzo’s Besides the books, music and family, Oswego’s public justice department, the seven books — most focused on immigration, Iorizzo’s legacy includes a scholarship in his sweetest memories are those of his students. especially that of Italian-Americans — was a name founded by a grateful former student. Iorizzo reminisces about Celia Sgroi ’70, life of Al Capone, later published in China and Although he does not choose the recipients, who would follow in his footsteps as chair of Korea. Iorizzo is thrilled to meet them each year, and public justice; Kathy McHale Mantaro ’65 M Several of his writing credits came during he is thankful that the fund in his name can ’70, who retired as a successful librarian, and retirement, and his latest, a chapter in the book help them, just as he was helped as a student. Robert Bruce McBride ’69 M ’72, who made Immigrant Struggles, Immigrant Gifts, was “It’s recognition of their productivity, their a name for himself in the criminal justice field, published earlier this year. excellent performance,” he said. “I hope it is an as well as a host of other students who inspire But retirement is not all work and no play inspiration to them, and keeps them going.” his pride. for this Renaissance man. An avid golfer, he He also hopes when they graduate and become “It’s so nice to see them develop from also enjoys playing his bass in an impromptu successful they will be similarly inspired to pass green freshman to confident senior. That’s jazz band of fellow emeritus faculty members on the help to generations to come, creating and the New Horizons Band of retirees. their own Oswego legacy.

Oswego l Summer 2013