The A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS OF POINT PARK UNIVERSITY

POINTFall 2009 Alumna Takes Dance Career to New Heights

Finding Your Place in the Workplace

Gov. Rendell Addresses 49th Commencement

President Paul Hennigan, Ed.D. WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Comments and suggestions are welcome! Vice President of Please send letters to: Managing Editor, CONTENTS Point Park University, Dept. of Communications University Advancement Dear alumni and friends, 201 Wood Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 Mariann Geyer Phone: 412.392.4747 Fax: 412.392.6185 2 Letters to the Editor I am pleased to report our recent progress as we enter the Senior Director

of Marketing and 2009 – 2010 academic year. We are opening this fall semester 2 News & Views Communications with 1,000 beds on campus and a new home for the School of Mary Ellen Solomon Business in the former West Penn Building. As the Academic Village 8 Girl Talk An after-school mentoring program pairs college women with young girls. at Point Park University begins to unfold through the completion of Director of Publications It’s a higher form of girl talk, and the sessions can spur life-changing results. initial projects, we are gaining momentum for upcoming projects Dalton Good that will transform the streetscape at the heart of our campus 10 Connection Leads to Retention Managing Editor and accentuate the external architecture at the future site of our Point Park University helps students to make academic and social connections. Kate Beard Miller student center. In addition, we are in the process of finalizing plans 11 Gov. Ed Rendell Addresses Point Park’s 49th for the ground breaking of our new park this spring. Graphic Designers Commencement Christie Martz Inspires graduates, friends and families with an uplifting message. Tom Phillips We have all had to step back and take a look at what is important 12 Biloxi or Bust personally and professionally, as we have seen so many things Communications Manager Point Park students, staff and faculty spent spring break building a home for change around us. Like many organizations and institutions, Nancy Commella Hurricane Katrina survivors. Point Park has taken this opportunity to focus on core values and Manager of Printing 14 Rising to the Occasion long-term investments. Our introspection supports the vision for & Office Services A faculty member and alumna takes her dance career to new heights. our University to become one of the most dynamic private, urban Don Pastorius universities in America. Our strategic investment in Point Park’s 16 A Silver Lining in the Time of Economic Stimulus future adds value to those who were here before, those who are Contributing Writers Students and graduates of Natural Sciences and Engineering Technology Colleen Derda contribute to a better and brighter tomorrow. here now and those to come in the future. Camille Downing 18 Point of View with Mary Smith Peters Photo by Ric Evans Elizabeth May I am inspired by the support from our Board of Trustees, legislators Finding your place in the workplace. Kate Beard Miller and alumni. Their encouragement of our vision and affirmation of our efforts validates our mission, and their support extends to Kevin Taylor 20 Progress Toward a Dynamic Urban Campus others in the community. I recently received a letter from Suzanne Broughton, president of the League of Women Voters of Greater Cheryl Valyo One year into the making of the Academic Village Pittsburgh, which illustrates this sentiment. Suzanne was impressed by the involvement of four Conservatory of Performing Arts students who participated in a Pittsburgh Camerata concert she recently attended. Suzanne went on to express her admiration for Contributing 22 A Metamorphosis of U Photographers Point Park’s new campaign and website focus on the power of change Point Park’s collaboration with community organizations and outreach to the Pittsburgh community. Through letters like Suzanne’s, Tom Bell I am reminded about our University’s deeply integrated relationship with the Pittsburgh community. Frankie Donlon 22 A Special Thanks to the Starmakers The benefactors who make the gala possible Ric Evans This issue of The Point shares stories of hope, examples of service and promise for the future. Thanks to those who participated in Adam Flanagan 23 Especially for Alumni the reader survey we promoted in the last edition, we received many good suggestions and positive feedback about The Point. We Jim Judkis hope you will enjoy this issue and more to come as we implement some exciting changes. Gabrielle Mazza 30 Report on The Point Reader Survey Karen Meyers 31 Class Notes Warm regards, Isaac Taube 32 Pioneer Athletics Copy Editor Cheryl Valyo The Point is published by the Office of University Advancement, Point Park University, 201 Wood Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of published information. Please visit our web site at www.pointpark.edu for current information regarding University THE A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS OF POINT PARK UNIVERSITY On the Cover: Kiesha Lalama- programs, departments, alumni activities and events.

White, choreographer, faculty Point Park University educates students in a diverse environment and prepares graduates to apply knowledge to achieve their goals, advance their POINTFall 2009 member in the Conservatory professions and serve their communities. Alumna Dr. Paul Hennigan Takes of Performing Arts and alumna, Dance Point Park University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, relation, ancestry, disability, veteran status, sexual Career at center. Clockwise from President to New orientation, marital status, or familial status, in the administration of any of its educational programs, activities, or with respect to employment or Heights upper right: James Washing- ton, Shonica Gooden, Ahmad admission to the University’s educational programs and activities. Simmons and Naila Ansari in This policy is in accord with state and federal laws, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Finding Your Place in the costume for Rise. Title IX of the Education amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Age Workplace Discrimination Act of 1975. Inquiries regarding these regulations, policies, or complaints of discrimination should be referred to the Human Gov. Rendell Addresses 49th Commencement Resources Officer, 2nd floor, Thayer Hall, telephone number: 412-392-3952. Inquires regarding Title IX and the Title IX regulations can also be Photo by Ric Evans referred to the Human Resources Officer as the Title IX coordinator.

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Dane S. Claussen, Ph.D., professor and Education, is a hybrid history and cultural Atlanta, Ga., in February. The audience director of graduate programs for the School study of American media covering the was comprised of a number of physicians of Communication, joined a panel of experts period from 1944 to 1996. Claussen also is and scientific researchers whose work at the annual Joint Journalism Historians an editorial board member of the scholarly at the CDC centers on cancer prevention. Letters to the Editor Meeting to discuss selection of core books journal Journalism History. Krill discussed the role of vitamins, in the discipline of journalism and mass particularly Vitamins A and D, in cellular Without the chance that Point Park gave me, I would never have communication. The session was held on Helena Knörr, Ph.D., assistant professor in differentiation and disease. Her research become a university professor. Back in 1967, I graduated from Richland March 14 at Manhattan Marymount College the School of Business, presented “Women has been focused on developmental biology, High School in Johnstown Pa. My grades were very poor from high school, in New York City. Other panelists included entrepreneurs: a comparison between Spain specifically cell differentiation. due to being sick three out of nine months of school. But Point Park Laurel Leff from Northeastern University, and the U.S.” at the University of Valladolid allowed me to take a semester of remedial work (algebra, English and so Frank Fee from University of North Carolina in Spain in June. Her research focuses on Bill Moushey, assistant professor for the on). If I passed these courses they would allow me in as a full time student. at Chapel Hill, Nancy Roberts from The organizational behavior and leadership, School of Communication and director of I made it, and enrolled in mechanical engineering technology. University at Albany and Joe Cutbirth from career development, women in leadership, the University’s Innocence Institute, finished I was very lucky to have two very special professors there. My calculus Columbia University. organization development, organization in second place in the investigative category professor tutored me on the side because I was missing so much class time, culture, ethics in the workplace, and work- of the Associated Press Sports Editors’ due to sickness. Another professor, who taught me strength of materials, Claussen is a former head/program chair of family balance. Dr. Knörr teaches graduate (APSE) annual writing contest. Moushey told me that I should continue my studies after earning my associate’s the Association for Education in Journalism courses in organizational leadership and was recognized for his stories focusing on Professional Advancement degree from Point Park. I did go on to two universities and became not and Mass Communication’s (AEJMC) History business administration. the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic only a mechanical engineer, but also a professor. Even though I had a rough Division and is a long-time member of the Association’s (PIAA) hiring policies and the Paige Beal and Jamie Grady, assistant professors in time with calculus at Point Park, I ended up a few courses shy of a second American Journalism Historians Association, Diane Krill, Ph.D., associate professor in fact that PIAA does not require criminal the School of Business, presented the luncheon keynote Ph.D. in mathematics. During the years that I worked, I received many for whose scholarly journal (American the School of Arts and Sciences Department background checks on game officials. address “From the Big Screen to the Small - Mobile awards for my research and teaching. Life shot me down in 1992: I became Journalism) he reviews manuscripts. of Natural Sciences and Engineering Moushey’s research uncovered evidence that Marketing and the Arts” during the Arts Reach National disabled and home bound. I was born with a very rare disease, the one that His latest book, Anti-intellectualism in Technology, delivered a guest seminar at several working and former PIAA officials caused me so much sickness, and it ended my career. Arts Marketing Conference in New York City. The event American Media: Magazines and Higher the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in had been arrested or charged with crimes. was held at New York University March 15 and 16. Grady I am now writing a graduate/post graduate textbook on the and Beal’s presentation underscored the importance of mathematics of a neuron. I never thought that back in 1967 I would be the cell phones in arts patrons’ lives and the opportunities one in front of the classroom, nor someone with enough education to write mobile media offer arts organizations to connect with their a textbook. If it was not for Point Park and some very special people there, I stakeholders. With support from the Fund for Student Success would never have the title of professor, nor would I be writing a textbook. at Point Park University, Those years at Point Park are some of the very best times in my life. Thank you, is left behind... Dr. Jake Trexel (A&S, 1970)

When I was attending Point Park,1975-80, I was the business- • Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference advertising manager who started a two-page student newspaper, the Point in the lives of our students. Park Pioneer. Our editor was the J&C Department head, Dr. Vincent LaBarbra. After four years, we grew to 12-15 pages and went from being totally funded, to paying our own way through revenue from advertising. • Strong alumni participation helps increase

After college I went on to work for Ruben H. Donnelley, the national Paige Beal and Jamie Grady. Point Park’s ranking for alumni support. yellow pages publisher. My question is, do you still publish the Pioneer? I would love to see what happened to it. • With the increasing changes in federal funding, Arts administrators representing organizations such as Thank You, Brooklyn Museum, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, a weakening economy and family struggles, students Jim Caskowski (COM 1980) Metropolitan Opera, Arizona Broadway Theatre, Two River face more challenges than ever before. Your support, Theater Company and the United States Air Force Band now more than ever, helps to keep their dream of a Editor’s Response attended the three-day event that focused on cultivating college education alive despite the times. the next generation of audiences in part through The Pioneer is alive and well. The news magazine continues as a student endeavor to gain experience in the responsible presentation of opinion and technology. To donate online or for more information, visit fact. It is produced by the students of Publication Production I & II and www.pointpark.edu/annualfund or call 412-392-3999. distributed on campus.

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The stories were the catalyst for requiring College in Lancaster County, Pa., Brackets Benefit Brittany Bradley, theater arts professor, presented an energetic, explosive that all PIAA officials obtain background from 1985-89. major, and Joshua Manculich, jazz piece titled Kooza. checks. On March 16, the first-ever dance major, were recipients of Hudson has experience in Brackets 101 fundraiser at the Outstanding Graduating In addition, Merz premiered a new work titled New Dean Appointed for teaching and academic Point Park University raised Senior Award. The luncheon Certainty at NewMoves Contemporary Dance School administration, finance and approximately $11,000 for the featured a Pittsburgh-themed Festival on May 7 at the Kelly Strayhorn of Communication strategic planning, facilities Myron Cope Scholarship. The meal with pirogues and Theater in East Liberty. According to Merz’s design, planning and scholarship honors Cope’s Primanti Brothers-style artist statement, Certainty can be viewed as Point Park University has supervision, faculty governance, journalistic accomplishments sandwiches. A photo an emotional response to something beyond hired Timothy J. Hudson, fundraising, curriculum design and will be awarded to full-time booth served as a popular the facts involved. The duet involves two Ph.D., as the first dean and assessment, broadcast undergraduate students majoring attraction for students who dancers in almost constant physical contact of the new School of journalism, and development in print journalism or broadcasting lined up to be photographed without the use of their hands. Communication. In his new and supervision of international in the School of Communication. with their friends. role, Hudson will provide exchange programs. The luncheon event prepared fans Cultivating a Competitive Edge educational leadership in the development for the National Collegiate Athletic On the Move of the new School of Communication and A graduate of Eastern New Association Men’s Basketball Point Park students are standing out function as the visionary for the school’s Mexico University, where he Tournament and was emceed by radio The Conservatory amongst the competition in the Business programmatic advancement. double-majored in theater sports talk host, Ellis Cannon, and a Dance Company, Point Idea Challenge sponsored by the Pittsburgh panel of basketball experts, including Park’s student dance Central Keystone Innovation Zone (PCKIZ). and communication, Hudson Mix It Up! “Dr. Hudson’s appointment as the first dean also earned his master’s degree in Bob Pompeani (COM 1982, HON 1997), company, presented Dan McVeagh (BUS ’09) won grand prize for of the School of Communication is an communication there and was named Point Park’s Office of Alumni Relations KDKA sports reporter, and Tony DeFazio, On the Move, a concert his Compu Table UI, a multi-touch computer integral part of Point Park’s overarching Outstanding Graduate Student in Mass assisted University schools and editor of Pittsburgh Sports Reports. Andy of original dance pieces table, in the second annual competition held vision for growth,” said Charles Perkins, Communication. He earned his doctor of departments in planning and hosting spring Russell, former Pittsburgh Steelers player, choreographed by several accomplished at Point Park on April 14 in the Lawrence Hall Ph.D., provost. “Dr. Hudson’s experience philosophy in mass communication from and summer mixers for alumni. The School and Elizabeth Cope, Myron Cope’s daughter, faculty members. The concert took place at lobby. with establishing programs, responding Temple University in Philadelphia, receiving of Arts and Sciences, School of Business were in attendance. the Pittsburgh Playhouse, the performing Dan McVeagh and William Generette, executive director of PCKIZ. to work force needs and focusing on the Abe Schechter Graduate Scholarship and School of Communication brought arts center of Point Park University, in global communications made him an Award from the Radio-Television News alumni back to campus to mingle with Event sponsors included The Pittsburgh Oakland April 9 through 11. Doug Bentz, excellent choice to lead the new School of Directors’ Association in 1989. faculty and colleagues over drinks and hors Steelers, Russell Charitable Foundation, professor, premiered Transmigration of Communication.” d’oeuvres in the newly renovated Lawrence Federated Investors, Williams Coulson LLC, Souls, a distinctly passionate and spiritually Hudson is an active member of the Hall lobby. Massaro Corporation, Tucker Arensberg and metaphorical expression of the essence of Hudson joins Point Park from East Carolina Broadcast Education Association, Duncan Financial. To contribute to the Myron the human spirit as it leaves the body. The University in Greenville, N.C., where Association for Education in Journalism Specter Visits Point Park Cope Scholarship, please contact the Office piece was set to music by John Adams as he served as founding director of the and Mass Communication, International of University Advancement at 421-392-8099. a commemoration of the first anniversary School of Communication. While there, Association for Media and Communication Sen. Arlen Specter, D-Pa., visited the of 9/11. Nicolas Petrov, senior professor Hudson was successful in implementing Research, National Communication University to conduct a town hall meeting School of Communication Awarded of dance, presented Fantasia with music the first graduate degree program in Association, and the International on Feb. 19. The event, which was held in the New Digital Media Lab by Jose Serebrier, featuring a projection health communication and designed an Communication Association. GRW Theater at the University Center, was of Salvador Dali’s painting, “Kiss.” It is a international media management graduate Hudson will be featured in a Q&A in the free and open to the public and the senator Point Park’s School of Communication was revival of a ballet choreographed in 1976 for degree program. winter edition of The Point. took questions regarding regional, state and awarded a $53,000 grant as part of the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, which opened in national issues. During his visit, Specter Keystone Innovation Starter Kit Program of Heinz Hall the same year. The story follows In addition to serving as full professor of Sen. Arlen Specter, D-Pa., speaks to Point Park students on February 19. announced $95,000 in federal the Pennsylvania Department of Community a love triangle involving a young woman journalism and communication at East support for construction of and Economic Development in March. and two young soldiers drafted to Vietnam. Several other Point Park students were Carolina University from 2005-09, Hudson a crime scene house for the The grant will go toward the purchase of Peter LeBreton Merz, assistant professor, recognized in the first round of the served as associate director of the School of School of Arts and Sciences equipment for a new digital media lab. presented Fingerspitzengefuhl, meaning competition. Nigel Wright, MBA student, Journalism and Mass Communication from Department of Criminal The grant was made possible by Governor “instinctive knowledge” as an exploration of captured second place with his Paper Bot 1991-99 as well as director of journalism Justice and Intelligence Edward G. Rendell. how some knowledge seems to pass from concept. Sarah Urick and David Clark, junior and mass communication graduate Studies. person to person without any communication. business management major and junior programs from 1991-2001 at the University Outstanding Seniors Kiesha Lalama-White, dance instructor, sports, arts and entertainment management of Oklahoma. Prior to that, Hudson was presented Auspicious Encounters, an major respectively, rounded out the group Give In To Your The Point Park Alumni Association honored assistant professor of communication Craving. exploration of the fortunate encounters that with a third place win for their Wake Up and director of television at Elizabethtown three students at its annual Senior Luncheon we embrace in our lives, and Ron Tassone, Widget concept. Students from Point Park, on April 9. Michelle Cosgrove, English major, Photo by Tom Bell Tom Photo by

4 www.pointpark.edu www.pointpark.edu 5 Sunrise, Venice Rooftops, oil on canvas , oil on canvas news & views news & views

Duquesne University and Carlow University Green and Gold Happenings documenting its efforts to meet standards Earn Your MBA in 36 30 Credits by the University in life of St. Anthony of presented their business ideas before a set by the United States Department of conjunction with Padua) and St. Patrick’s panel of judges. Three winners were selected The Green and Gold Society participated in a Education. The newest accreditation process The School of Business will waive six TomaykoArt. The first Old Cathedral in New for each university, with the first place community service project at the Washington also includes providing evidence-based credits in the MBA program for those who exhibit features the York City (Resurrection). winners advancing to the final presentation. Area Humane Society on April 26. Students analysis and measurements of compliance have completed a bachelor’s degree in work of the award- Jessica Goughler (BUS ’08) spent the day painting the exterior of 34 dog by various programs. accounting with the school. For only 30 winning artist Frank Jack Tomayko, Ph.D., won the grand prize in kennels. credits, qualifying candidates can complete Herbert Mason. The a member of the Point the 2008 competition. The University began the current the program in less than one year (over collection features 18 oil paintings that span Park University Board self-review process last year and the course of a fall, spring and summer the last 50 years of Mason’s career, including of Trustees and Conservatory of Performing The PCKIZ is a has formed 14 subcommittees, semester). Point Park MBA grads with a landscapes, figures, still life and religious Arts Advisory Board member, has played public private consisting of staff, faculty, bachelor’s degree in accounting will meet subjects. Mason’s painting techniques are an integral role in the development of the partnership students and administration. the required 150 credits for licensure as a reminiscent of the Old Masters. He studied Lawrence Hall Gallery. An avid art collector, whose These groups will study certified public accountant, which takes at the Art Students League of New York Tomayko has a long-standing relationship mission is each standard and effect in 2012 in Pennsylvania. Evening under the direction of the late Frank Vincent with Mason. to increase begin the process of and Saturday classes are available at Point Dumond and is a sought-after instructor job growth compiling data and key Park’s Downtown or Cranberry campuses. there today. Mason resides in Manhattan’s The gallery will be open Monday through by assisting information for the report. Alumni are eligible for a tuition discount and Little Italy neighborhood where he teaches Saturday between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. The technology, The goal is to study not only may also apply for financial aid. intimate sessions in old painting techniques paintings are available for purchase by biomedical, Point Park’s strengths, but in his home studio. He spends summers in a calling 412-412-481-1566. For more information also to make recommendations for Lawrence Hall Gallery Exhibits Oil Paintings farmhouse near Stowe, Va., where he teaches information about the gallery, please call technology and areas that need improvement. by Frank Herbert Mason a landscape painting class en plein-air 412-392-8008. material science companies. each year. His works can be found in many The lobby of Lawrence Hall is home to a As an example, the 2000 self study museums as well as the Church of San Read The Point online. Watch Out Broadway! recommended that the university move new gallery with rotating exhibits presented Giovanni di Malta in Venice (canvases of the pointpark.edu/thepoint Taking the Lead in Leadership toward Web-based student services that are The second annual Broadway Bound event Angela Nelson, junior advertising and public “fast, efficient, convenient and accessible, raised funds to support student participation relations major and member of the volleyball and that may have a beneficial impact on in the 2009 New York and Los Angeles team, participated in a two-week Red Cross/ student satisfaction and retention.” The Showcases. The event was sponsored by the National Association of Intercollegiate Periodic Review Report of 2006 shows that Conservatory Circle and founded by John Athletics (NAIA) Youth Leadership Program the University complied by developing the Tomayko, Ph.D. Guests sampled fine wines at the Red Cross National Headquarters Point Web portal system that allows students and hors d’oeuvres and were entertained by Planned giving in Washington, D.C., in June. Nelson was to access account balance information, piano-side medleys of Broadway musical selected as one of 13 student athletes unofficial transcripts, class schedules, hits performed by Conservatory of Performing from the NAIA. She and the other students online registration and payments. Arts students. A silent auction was held means the economy received scholarship support from the Red in the outdoor garden of the James Gallery Cross and State Farm Insurance, sponsors “The results of the self study and on April 25. The showcase serves as a of the program. Civic and business leaders periodic review are fair, open and honest launching pad for careers in film, television trained participants to uncover their assessments; they will be the basis for the does not control your and theater. Jack Allison and John Shepard, leadership potential through organizing 2010 self study,” notes Johnna Maryak, chair of the Department of Theatre, founded blood drives, participating on a leadership coordinator for accreditation and state the showcase in 2003. This year’s showcase board and cultural competency training. compliance in the Office of the Provost. charitable wishes. is directed by Zeva Barzell and Shirley “While it is important for us to become Tannenbaum. Point Park Begins Rigorous Accreditation reaccredited, the process makes us a Self Study Process stronger institution because we are involved in a continuous cycle of self-improvement.” Point Park University is in the process of conducting a self-study for accreditation The final report will be completed in fall 2010 You Know You Want More through the Middle States Commission on followed by a site visit by peers from the Point Park. Higher Education. The review takes place Middle States Commission in spring 2011. Consider naming Point Park as a beneficiary in your will. You can leave a specific every 10 years and involves a rigorous review amount to the University or a percentage of your estate. of every aspect of the University as a way of

For a confidential consultation, contact Barb Cinpinski at 412-392-4215 or email [email protected] 6 24www.pointpark.edu www.pointpark.edu www.pointpark.edu t’s 4 o’clock on Thursday at Stevens Elementary in Pittsburgh’s West End Ineighborhood. A group of nine girls—fourth- and fifth-graders—sit cross-legged in a circle in the school cafeteria. They’re ready to get started. The college students in charge start handing out applesauce containers, handfuls of animal crackers and cups rl alk of juice. gi t It’s time for a snack and “roses An after-school mentoring program pairs and thorns,” the first part of the weekly hour-and-a-half mentoring session run college women with young girls. It’s a by five Point Park University students. higher form of girl talk, and the sessions The University women encourage the girls as they share their highs and lows can spur life-changing results. of the past week. A trip to the mall or the movies is a “rose” for many girls. On the other hand, a bad day at school By Elizabeth May or some much-dreaded standardized The girls crunch on crackers more than 550 young girls. goal-setting. They help the girls Photography by Isaac Taube testing is a “thorn.” The week that and sip juice; they smile, talk This year marks the first time complete a worksheet. What are (COM ‘09) grades came back, many of the girls and laugh. They read a bio of a Point Park University students your long- and short-term goals? were proud to announce a new rose— successful woman and positive have participated. Five women What are the good things about getting on the honor roll. role model each week—today, signed on for the program in achieving this goal? How would irl alkit’s R&B superstar vocalist Alicia January 2009: chapter director you work toward the goal? What Keys. The girls can relate. Many Julia Cowher, a sophomore are some things that can prevent aspire to be singers or artists journalism major; Marissa you from achieving your goals? g themselves. The Point Park Deasy, a freshman sport, art and The girls take the activities t women use interesting facts in entertainment major; Ally Perry, a to heart. They know that the bio as a springboard to more junior psychology major; Jamisa planning for their future can questions. Alicia Keys isn’t the Spalding, a junior theater major; start now. They’ve also seen singer’s real name. So, what is and Angel Wallace, a freshman the positive power of SWSG at a stage name? What would your cinema and digital arts major. work in their lives. The week stage name be, if you had one? “I think it’s going really after they had a session on What’s a manager? What does a well so far,” says Cowher, who stress management, several manager do? looks forward to her Thursday girls shared how they used a The girls are animated and afternoons with the girls from technique like listening to music anxious to participate. They Stevens Elementary. “We’re all or writing when they were upset, relish the opportunity to get new to mentoring, so this is a instead of lashing out. encouragement and advice from learning experience for us, but That kind of feedback is someone older than them, yet the girls have responded really immensely satisfying to everyone still young enough to relate to the positively. I just wish we had involved. “The mentors are given issues they face. more time to spend with them the opportunity to empower young That’s just what the founder per week.” girls,” Cowher says. “And the of Strong Women, Strong Girls Wallace agrees. “All of us mentors are empowered through (SWSG) had in mind. SWSG was love spending time with the girls; being in a leadership role in the founded in 2000 by a freshman at they are so full of energy, and community and on campus… It’s Harvard University, who wanted each of us always says SWSG really rewarding in all respects.” to make a difference in the lives is the highlight of our week, Wallace, too, strongly of elementary school students in because it honestly is. We learn believes in the impact of the Greater Boston area. Today, just as much from the girls as mentoring. “To have someone this innovative after-school they do from us.” slightly older remind you that you mentoring program serves 49 On Thursday, March 19, a are talented, special, intelligent, schools and community centers bright day just on the cusp of gifted—and that you have all throughout Boston, Pittsburgh spring, the group at Stevens the potential in the world—is and Miami. Eleven different readies for the next part of their something that can change a colleges and universities provide afternoon. Wallace, Cowher and child’s life.” 174 student mentors for the the other mentors kick off some program, who meet weekly with activities that center around Top row, from left: Marissa Deasy, sophomore sports, art and entertainment management major; Ally Perry, junior psychology major; Quintina Brown, fifth- grade student; Julia Cowher, junior journalism major; Angel Wallace, sophomore cinema and digital arts major. Bottom row, from left: Fifth grade students Zharia Mourning, Dimera Little, Ah’deja Dennison and Diamond Blackman at the SWSG Jump into Spring event on April 15. 8 www.pointpark.edu www.pointpark.edu 9 By Camille Downing to Retention eads

L Andrew Conte, adjunct faculty member in the School From left: Emily Cain, Caitlin Brown, Danielle Gruzosky, of Communication, spends one-on-one time with John Mayo, Dan Matlack, Ellen Lohr and Amy Schlierf students enrolled in the Point Park News Service stand in front of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in course. Photo by Tom Bell Cleveland Ohio, one of several Mystery Bus Trips that are part of the Sophomore Experience. Photo by junior photojournalism major Gabrielle Mazza

Anyone who has been to college knows there is a lot more to the student experience than Point Park’s 49th Annual ting just what happens in the confines of the classroom. Both academic and non-academic activities Gov. Ed Rendell Commencement on May 2 at the Mellon work together to influence how much a student enjoys and benefits from their years at college.

C Arena delivered the usual sentiment for Success in these two areas also directly correlates with high student retention rates. Addresses graduates and their families. It was a Point Park University understands this well and has established programs to immerse fitting culmination for years of hard work students in everything the college offers with the goal of keeping students on campus until Point Park’s by students, faculty and the University they obtain their degree. administration. This year, there was something special about the fanfare “It is important for us to continually look at how well we treat our students and, more Bell Tom Photo by importantly, how connected our students are to our services,” explains Provost Charles amongst the crowd. It could have been Perkins, Ph.D. “We want to embrace our students so they have the best experience the excitement for Governor Ed Rendell’s that as a Philadelphian he would never onne possible at Point Park.” th commencement speech. Perhaps it was be elected. But he pressed forward and the swelling pride for all the graduates found hope in the story of John Street, who The University is making this connection with students through several formalized programs: whose alma mater is approaching its 50th served as the 97th mayor of Philadelphia C • Student Success Centers: The Office of Retention is designed to identify and anniversary and increasingly signifying immediately following Rendell’s term as communicate with students who are at-risk for dropping out due to academic, social success through progress of the Academic mayor. Rendell said that Street was told or personal problems. Student Success Centers have been established in each of 49Commencement Village at Point Park University. Some he’d never be able to go to college, but the schools to advise students on scheduling, tutoring, financial aid, social resources may say it was the chill of the arena in Street exceeded expectations by earning and alternatives to dropping out. Efforts have been placed on educating the staff and effort to maintain the ice rink below as the a bachelor’s degree and continuing on to professors on how different departments can work together to proactively provide viable solutions on an individual basis for students. Inspires graduates, Pittsburgh Penguins continued to compete obtain a law degree and later becoming in the National Hockey League playoffs on mayor. • Living and Learning Communities: In an effort to help freshmen feel friends and families with their way to bringing home the Stanley Cup. Rendell said he was inspired by the comfortable on campus and build positive communities in which they live and play, Whatever the reason, it was a jubilant words of a 6th grader reflecting on his students are assigned to Living and Learning Communities (LLCs) based on their an uplifting message send-off and Rendell’s speech was genuine progress and renewed self-esteem because personal interests. The communities are the basis for the housing assignment of the student, who lives on the same dorm floor with others who have common interests, and inspiring. He started by offering of an after-school tutoring program and the such as arts, sports, movies, outdoor activities or global perspectives. By Kate Beard Miller five tips he’s learned through his own teacher who encouraged him. Rendell used experience and summarized them as: seize that story to illustrate his call to service The LLCs offer outings and recreational activities for the students to do together, like the moment, you decide, go for it, hang in and finding happiness in life. attend a play or work on a service project. An assigned community coordinator helps there and how to feel really good. Over 600 graduates walked in the students plan activities and serves as a liaison with the school. The coordinator, who is also a personal resource for the students, is instrumental in identifying those who may Rendell peppered his speech ceremony, presided over by University need extra help from the Student Success Centers. with quotations by humanitarian Albert President Paul Hennigan, Ph.D., with John Schweitzer, motivational speaker Les Kudlac, Ph.D., as grand marshal. Rendell • Sophomore Experience: The LLCs have been so well received that Sophomore Brown, basketball player John Wood and his was with an honorary degree by Nancy Experience Communities are being formed. These communities will allow students in own father. However, the most meaningful Washington, Ph.D., chair of the board of campus housing to choose their own themes, then provide resources and activities that sophomores can do together. Students in these communities will also benefit parts of his speech were his own offerings trustees, and conferred by Hennigan. In from having an assigned coordinator who can help develop activities and serve as a of wisdom. He shared the experience of total, 720 Point Park students graduated link to the University staff and services. losing his father at the age of 14 and how with bachelor’s degrees and 209 students he was grateful for the years they had graduated with master’s degrees in the “We’ve always told parents that we care about the students and are passionate about their together. He spoke about the long road to 2008 – 2009 academic year. academic success,” notes Perkins. “Now we are starting conversations and making a connection with our students to ensure they have the best possible experience while at Point Park.” becoming governor and how he was told

10 www.pointpark.edu www.pointpark.edu 11 Biloxi or Bust Point Park Students, Staff and Faculty Spent Spring Break Building a Home for Hurricane Katrina Survivors

By Alon Melamed

A new home constructed by Habitat for Humanity and a home destroyed by the hurricane in the ninth ward of New Orleans, La.

ach spring millions of students Mack Frantz, a junior biology However, morale remained high Esplurge on a spring break trip as a major, said many students were despite the challenging conditions timeout from the rigors of college life. personally affected by this trip. and 6 a.m. wake-up calls. For a group of Point Park Frantz never realized how big the Terry Dougan, junior accounting students, spring break 2009 aftermath of Hurricane Katrina really major and Weston’s husband, meant much more than that. was until he was there in person. complemented the Point Park group “When I was a little girl a tornado “We arrived to a flat foundation with considerable construction ripped through my grandparents’ and building materials that had to expertise. Having previous experience town. I went to visit them after the be deconstructed from sitting out in the construction field, Dougan tornado and witnessed a little girl more than a year. So in reality, we assisted with more heavy-duty work about my age holding her teddy bear in spent half a week deconstructing involved in building a house. the middle of her wrecked home. Ever in order to build the house,” he said. Habitat houses that are purchased since that scene, I felt I had to give “We left with the basic framework locally have a zero mortgage rate. back to that little girl. The Biloxi trip and sheeting up, so it went from The pay rate for the family who helped me accomplish giving back.” nothing to looking like a house.” lives in the house actually serves as Elaine Koontz, a freshman Brittany Johndrow, a a base contribution for other houses Photography by Adam Flanagan (A&S ‘09) cinema and digital arts major, was freshman print journalism major, that would be built in the future. one of a dozen Point Park students learned a lot about selflessness “What we did is help the next who traveled to Biloxi, Miss., for and personal sacrifice. house and the next one structure in an alternative spring break. “Knowing that someone was such a way it keeps giving forever The group, under the waiting to live in this house, to in perpetuity,” said Weston. direction of Habitat for Humanity, return to a normal life, really made Before leaving Camp Victor helped to build a new home for me consider how lucky I am to be grounds, each group leaves a mural Hurricane Katrina survivors. where I am now,” said Johndrow. and a T-shirt representing where Ashley Dalton, director of For most of the students, the they are from. The wall of murals Campus Life, served alongside alternative spring break was their first represented groups who traveled P. K. Weston, Ph.D., director of opportunity to travel to the South. The from across the nation to help rebuild the Honors Program, as advisors University funded the trip in part and the devastated communities. on the trip. Dalton was inspired students contributed with fund raising. Weston concluded the students to organize the trip during an The group stayed at Camp Victor gained more than just a trip; they Association of College Union Ministries. Once an old sewing factory, gained a life-changing experience. International (ACUI) conference the hostel was one of many relief “Many students realize that held in New Orleans last year. centers that were active during the a self-serving life, while fun in the Morgan Patkos and Tiffany Lehman mark From left: Tiffany Lehman, Elaine Koontz Front row, from left: Kelly Grigg, Mack “The first day of the conference days of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. short term, leaves them feeling a piece of wood with a chalk reel. and Brittany Johndrow. Frantz, Ashley Dalton, Habitat Volunteer we all went with Habitat and The conditions at the hostel empty. This trip will enable students Spike; second row: Riva Strauss, PK built a house. It was such a great could be described as challenging to learn deeply about others (and Weston, Terry Dougan; third row: Elaine experience. I thought ‘students with a total of 50 beds in both the themselves) and allow them to spend Koontz, Julia Cowher, Brittany Johndrow, should do this,’ to give them a men’s and women’s rooms. Plus the their time in a meaningful way.” Ashley Murray, Ashley Laverty; fourth row: chance to do something really great toll of working seven- or eight-hour Tiffany Lehman, Habitat Project Leader Miles, Morgan Patkos, Adam Flanagan. with their time,” Dalton said. days further exhausted the group. 12 www.pointpark.edu www.pointpark.edu 13 Photo by Ric Evans

iesha Lalama-White (COPA 1995) is athleticism as a gymnast was a natural Lalama-White. She includes a theme Kfast-becoming a familiar name in the advantage considering most dance students step from her children in every piece she dance world. She is living her dream and all at that age can have as many as 10 years in choreographs and asks for their input in the while balancing the needs of her family. training. Lalama-White’s ability caught the music selection. Rather early in her career as a choreographer attention of her instructors and it wasn’t and dance educator, she has been recognized long before she was competing in dance in Dance Magazine’s “25 to watch in 2009,” competitions across the nation. A Faculty commissioned to choreograph works for She was awarded a scholarship to the Houston Met and Giordano Jazz Dance attend Slippery Rock University where Member and Chicago, and even choreographed a dance she majored in dance and also participated scene in Paramount’s remake of Sorority on the track team. After a halting injury Row which is due in theaters this October. to her knee as a result of throwing discus, Alumna Takes Lalama-White has accomplished all of this Lalama-White returned home to recuperate from her Pittsburgh roots with family as her from surgery. She took some time off from her Dance number one priority. her education to continue in competitions “It’s taken me years to realize that I’m and met dance coach Kim Leheny (COPA Career to only truly going to be happy as a mother 1990) who encouraged her to continue her and as a wife if I’m happy in my life and my studies at Point Park University. Lalama- life is choreography and dance. So that’s White enrolled shortly thereafter and knew New heights how I find the balance,” said Lalama-White, she had found her home within the first who is also working on a master’s degree in week of classes. Lalama-White is modest about her interdisciplinary arts at Goddard College. After graduation, Lalama-White opened success, expressing gratitude while avoiding At seven years old, Lalama-White had a Shout School of Performing Arts in Monaca, any air of superiority. It almost seems as if good sense for putting movement to music. Pa and managed a successful business there she chooses to not dwell on this success and She simply could not accept a section of for 10 years. When an opportunity became instead continues to be inspired to create available to return to Point Park as a faculty and motivate others to achieve their goals. member in the Conservatory of Performing “What’s rewarding for me is to see the Arts, Lalama-White was faced with the students go on to get professional jobs and difficult choice of closing her flourishing to find their own happiness. My reward is studio for the opportunity to work with having a full-time job at this University. I dance students, who much like herself, had love it. I think I’m bleeding green and gold aspirations for a career in dance. at this point. There is no other reward quite Lalama-White attributes many like that.” of her successes and opportunities in She recently choreographed a full- dance to her education and contacts length show, The Beach, to be performed at Point Park. Marlana Walsh (COPA at the Pittsburgh Playhouse in December. Occasion ‘01), managing director for the Houston The show follows a man and woman as Met, commissioned Lalama-White to they journey through life, celebrating the choreograph Jolt in 2005. Lalama-White love and support of family. The show is a will be returning to choreograph a new work collaboration with cousins David Lalama, for the Houston Met this year. Katie Shenot a New York City-based composer, and (COPA ’03), director of casting at Nancy Ralph Lalama, a Grammy Award-winning Mosser Casting, contacted Lalama-White saxophonist.

about the choreography opportunity with Lalama-White’s latest accomplishment Rising to the Sorority Row. is a work titled Rise, which she performed “It was kind of surreal, because I’ve with fellow alums and one student for a By always wanted to do that,” Lalama-White gala at the Grier School, in Trenton, Pa. said. As choreographer for the film, Lalama- The performance was organized by Jocelyn Kate Beard Miller White was able to select six Point Park Labriola Hrzic (COPA 1994), artistic dance majors to be extras in the dance scene. director for the Grier Summer Program. Another Point Park connection for “It’s all about how it’s time to move on, Photos by Tom Bell Lalama-White is her husband, Roy White to stand up. A lot of dancers are stuck right mismatched movements in a gymnastics (BUS 1993), whom she met as a student at now, trying to find jobs and I want them to floor routine and promptly let her instructor the University. They have two sons Jake, age know that they will. Never give up. Rise up know that the choreography didn’t feel 10, and Jax, age 8, and Lalama-White often to the occasion. Stand up for yourself and right. Perhaps this was the first moment that includes her family in the creative process. move on.” defined her as an artist. “They know that my energy is different Though Lalama-White didn’t begin when I’m creating and they can feel that studying dance until the age of 16, her energy. They’re a huge part of it,” said 14 www.pointpark.edu www.pointpark.edu 15 John Larson (A&S ’08), quality engineer at Mitsubishi Electric Power Products, made some By Kate Beard Miller contacts with his company while a full-time student at Point Park and eventually landed an internship that turned into a full-time job. “There is a lot of demand for electrical A Silver Lining in equipment because the grid is becoming older. By improving parts of the electric grid, when one line goes down, you can pull power from another and there could be a decrease in the number of the Time of Economic Stimulus blackouts and brownouts, loss of power or partial loss of power.”

s a result of the Gary DeJidas (A&S 1972), president for Point Park students at GAI with the reconstruction of State Route 65 Waynesburg University. The three-year Ron Young (A&S ’08), research assistant at A American Recovery and CEO of GAI Consultants Inc., began possibility of full-time employment at the through Sewickley, Pa., and all of program is designed for students to NanoDynamics Life Science, contributes to the working for GAI as a construction completion of the internship. the ramp structures in that area. His transfer and complete their degree research of anti-fungus and water purification and Reinvestment Act inspector 37 years ago. About 10 years responsibilities include ensuring that with an additional two years at another products through biological testing. Young is passed earlier this year, into his career, DeJidas was selected to Mary Grace Cesarespada (A&S ’07), contractors are safely fulfilling their university. While at Waynesburg, Kughn’s currently working on obtaining Environmental open an office in Orlando, Fla. He grew a power systems engineer at Eaton, contractual obligations and compliance previous work experience with the Protection Agency registration of NanoCide, an Point Park engineering successful business there with a team of conducts circuit, coordination and arc with the plans, specifications and university’s help desk afforded him a co- anti-fungal material for building products. graduates are benefiting talented engineers and staff numbering flash studies of high voltage power contract provisions such as traffic op/internship in information technology “Point Park gave me greater knowledge in more than 100. systems to improve safety precautions control. with US Steel. After transferring to the other types of research,” said Young. “The field of from a surge of funding for Today, GAI is anticipating the in public buildings. Cesarespada is “Point Park gave me a practical and University of Pittsburgh to complete biotechnology is growing very rapidly, especially ready-to-go projects in the 2010 completion of a seven-story currently conducting numerous arc flash analytical approach to engineering,” his degree, Kughn found it difficult to office building that will serve as the studies as part of compliance standards said Nemmer. “Point Park prepared me maintain the position with US Steel and a in the Pittsburgh area. It’s a great field because infrastructure and energy company’s headquarters in Orlando. The in local hospitals. The studies evaluate to become a hands-on, evolved type of full class schedule. He was attracted to there is always a new virus that needs to be researched.” sectors. In contrast to rising company also has offices in Charleston, worst-case scenarios of arc flash or fire engineer, which is great for working out Point Park for its evening and weekend W.Va., Cincinnati, Ohio, Florence, Ky., within a panel board. She then provides in the field on construction projects.” classes and small class size. unemployment, there is Fort Wayne, Ind., Jacksonville, Fla., hospitals with safety precautions based Nemmer has been with PennDOT “The best thing about Point Park is that Amanda Bright, engineering technician at great demand for engineers Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, Pa., and on the study. for six years and recently served as every class I needed, I could take in the Wheeling Corrugating Company, travels from provides engineer consulting in a variety “It’s gratifying knowing you’re able to project manager for the $60 million evening or on weekends so that I could Wheeling to Downtown Pittsburgh two times across all disciplines and of disciplines. DeJidas said he anticipates help and protect people. I like to know reconstruction of a seven mile stretch continue to work 40 hours a week,” said during the workweek and commutes from her Point Park’s Department a lot of opportunity for his company with that I am helping to save someone’s life.” on Interstate 79 between the Neville Kughn. “I was trying to go through school home in Imperial, Pa., on Saturdays for a full load stimulus funding in infrastructure ranging Eaton is currently in the Island Bridge and the Interstate 279/79 without a lot of debt, trying to work and of coursework in the Civil Engineering Program. of Natural Sciences and from work on roads, bridges and railways developmental stages of research interchange. pay the tuition at the same time.” Her company will promote her to engineer upon to water treatment and improving the for the distribution and safety of Nemmer said his district had many In May, Kughn’s position at US Steel Engineering Technology completion of her degree. Her company supplies electric grid. alternative power such as solar and wind projects that met the criteria for was terminated in a round of layoffs. continues to produce “Another big area for us is energy. technologies. For example, Cesarespada stimulus funding. However, in the same month he was materials such as galvanized and aluminized steel in sheet and coil form and bridge forms to a skilled engineering We’re working on renewable energy and could one day conduct arc flash studies “The bottom line is that we can notified about his selection as recipient wind farms and we’re partnering with on windmills, in which maintenance is always use funding, especially for our of the GAI scholarship and internship contractors for highway and bridge construction. workforce to meet the Westinghouse on some new nuclear conducted on a platform at least 200 feet bridge program and the need for bridge opportunity. “Now I’ve transferred into the engineering demands of the future. plants,” DeJidas said. above ground and safety is critical. rehabilitation.” “The scholarship is really exciting. department where I am getting more in-depth DeJidas was honored as a It takes a lot of the weight off of my with the actual profile and calculations that After all, engineers distinguished alumnus of Point Park John Nemmer (A&S ’04), senior civil Bradley Kughn, senior civil engineering shoulders and will definitely help pay are used to find sectional properties and load help to keep our nation in 2006 and is a new member of the engineer supervisor at the Pennsylvania major, is a full-time, non-traditional for the last remaining classes. It’s just carrying capacities.” Board of Trustees. He recently created Department of Transportation (PennDOT), student. He started his engineering exciting in general to get into GAI.” functioning in many an scholarship/internship opportunity is currently project manager for the degree through a 3/2 program at William Stehle is a full-time, non-traditional unseen ways. Here are student in the Mechanical Engineering Program just a few stories of Point and is thankful his previous company encouraged him to complete his bachelor’s degree. He worked Park alumni and students Students and Graduates of Natural Sciences in telecommunications at Ericsson and had been who have contributed to and Engineering Technology Contribute to a in the same position over the course of eleven the advancement of their years through tumultuous transitions from Better and Brighter Tomorrow ForeSystems, to Marconi, to Ericsson. Ericsson professions, while making closed their Warrendale branch in June and Stehle our world a better place. plans to graduate in the spring of 2010.

Photography by Jim Judkis “I tell you what, if I didn’t go back to school, it would be tough to look for a job right now. I’m glad I went back.” 16 www.pointpark.edu www.pointpark.edu 17 Point of View Finding Your Place in the Workplace with Associate Dean Mary Smith Peters By Kate Beard Miller

Q. Point: What is your first piece of advice to help with how people feel as a result closing down, you’ve got to understand to those who how have recently lost their of being unemployed. We also conducted how what you need and what you want jobs and are looking for employment? diagnostic testing to identify skills, fits in the big picture. The idea is to not A. Peters: The first thing to realize is that abilities and interests, analyzed get discouraged. Keep your energy up your unemployment is probably not transcripts, and talked about programs and don’t blame yourself. about you. It probably has more to do here at Point Park. Participants left these with the economy, so you should not sessions with an updated resume Q. Point: What inspired you to work with approach your job search in a negative and a plan for how they’re going to non-traditional students? way. You should think positively about market themselves. Part of our strategic A. Peters: The idea of reinventing yourself. what you have to offer and what you can plan is to be a good neighbor, and we I love that, because I did it and it was so do and then go out there thinking that envisioned this program as something much fun. One of the reasons I there’s some place that you should be. If that we could do as good neighbors. encourage people to think about what you think that, then when you approach The added bonus is, if participants are interests them and what they want to do an employer, it’s much more positive. interested in higher education, then Point is that it might be that the last job you had You can be the solution to their problem. Park’s the place to be. is not the job you need to be looking for Knowing your skills and understanding again. And that’s hard to think about how they’re marketable is what’s most Q. Point: Do you recommend any when you have to find a job. If you were important. online resources for job seekers? not in the right job in the first place, since A. Peters: We can all find Web sites, but you’re forced to do it anyhow, why not Q. Point: You recently led a community the idea is what do you do with that take a moment and revisit those things workshop titled Bridging the Gap as information once you get it? If you’re that interest you and the things you know outreach for those who are unemployed going to get a job, you have to get up and how to do and where work is happening? due to economic downfall, what were go and get it. You can look at the Web Years ago, I was working for a company some of the main topics of that series? sites and send your resume, but given this that was going away: Digital Equipment A. Peters: I think that when you lose market, you’ve got to find where the work Corporation. I saw an opportunity to your job, particularly when it happens is and go out and look for it. The job reassess my educational background, so quickly, there is a certain panic. The search needs to be one-on-one. The a bachelor’s degree in English and a idea is to go from panic to a plan. Our longer you stay inside researching and master’s degree in counseling, and to workshop helped participants to the less time you go out looking for it, the embrace the change that was coming. I understand their skills, interests and longer it will take. asked myself what would I like to do. I values, so that as they start the job search, had interns from time to time, and had they’re able to package themselves Q. Point: How do you encourage those enjoyed coaching them. That’s what differently. You’ve got to have a plan and who have been unemployed for more inspired me to start working in student the better the plan, the more confident than six months? affairs, and later in career counseling, the search. The series had five two-hour A. Peters: This is the first time I’ve seen judicial affairs and my current role in workshop sessions where we took people that even when somebody is doing all the advising non-traditional students. I’ve from telling their story, to outlining their right things, it may take longer to find a been my own best test case of the skills and interests and forming a plan. job than they thought. We’re having a theories I advocate to students! We brought in a panel of experts to talk true shift in the way we do business in about unemployment benefits, what to this country. Some things will always be do with your 401K, how to handle debt true: you always have to go face-to-face, Mary Smith Peters is associate dean and looked at educational backgrounds. you always have to be as well prepared as of students for Non-Traditional We brought in people from banking you can and you always have to be Programs. She can be reached at Photo by Karen Meyers and unemployment and a counselor flexible. But when you have companies [email protected].

18 www.pointpark.edu www.pointpark.edu 19 By Cheryl Valyo largest of 50 awarded throughout the state and Avenue and various cross streets, as funding

it will fund the milling and resurfacing of Wood permits. Photo by Karen Meyers Street; installation of accessible sidewalks and One of the most anticipated future elements Progress curbs; the addition of distinctive pedestrian- of the Academic Village is a new eight-story scaled street lighting; and new and efficient student center in the former YMCA building signaling systems on the Blvd. of the at the intersections Allies. The first Toward a For more information with the Boulevard of stage of the design the Allies and Third about The Academic process, a request Avenue. Village, and to read for qualifications Dynamic, The University from prospective the report on the engaged GAI architectural teams, University Architect Appointed Economic Impact of the Consultants Inc., a has been completed. to Oversee Initiative, Lead Urban Pittsburgh-based Academic Village by the The University has Design Teams engineering firm, to Pennsylvania Economy solicited proposals design the streetscape from several A $2 million grant from The Heinz League, go to improvements that design teams who Endowments made it possible to begin Campus www.pointpark.edu/ a comprehensive design process for will extend from Fort accompanied the Pitt Boulevard to Third academicvillage. architects in their construction of the Academic Village Avenue. The design review of the existing and supported the appointment of and survey phases building. the University’s first-ever architect/ planner. Last spring, architect Elmer have been completed The University Burger joined the University to oversee and construction is expected to be initiated continues to expand the campus with the the initiative in its entirety and help later this year. purchase of 101 Wood Street. The building construct an environmental, sustainable GAI is working with TKA and Klavon to ensure is being evaluated for use, such as a overlay for the project. One year into the making of the Academic that the design concepts for the Wood Street welcome center that will include the Office A Pittsburgh native, Burger has Corridor and the park complement each other. of Admissions, and will finalize plans as the more than 30 years of experience Village at Point Park University While the initial focus of the Wood Street existing tenant transitions out over the next in architecture, design, project Design by TKA Associates and Klavon Design Corridor is the area between Ft. Pitt Blvd. and two years. management and field supervision. His Rendering by Ed Dumont Third Ave., the University intends to eventually experience encompasses education, extend the streetscape design to Forbes urban design, office buildings, hotels, sports facilities and public housing. Burger has worked in such cities as year after unveiling the Academic Village direct, indirect and induced economic output, the community, and are developing plans to Boston and Washington, D.C., but A at Point Park University, the $244 million as well as jobs and compensation created break ground on such key elements as the has spent much of his career in his campus and public enhancement space by the initiative. The Academic Village will urban park this year.” hometown, where his projects have plan that is already well on the way toward generate 3,700 full- and part-time jobs The University also announced that Tasso On the Move included Pittsburgh’s award-winning transforming the University and Downtown through direct spending, and indirect and Katselas Associates (TKA) Inc. and Klavon As the Academic Village continues to 11, 12 and 13 in the West Penn building at PNC Firstside Center. Pittsburgh, Point Park has made significant induced ripple effects in the local economy. Design, both Pittsburgh-based architectural outwardly transform Point Park’s Downtown Wood Street and Ft. Pitt Blvd. After a $5 The Academic Village project strides toward making the initiative a reality. The University also announced that it has firms, will develop plans for the urban park at neighborhood, internal changes are also million renovation led by TKA Architects “couldn’t offer a more challenging and At a news conference and campus secured commitments of support from key the corner of Wood Street and the Blvd. of the being implemented to meet the needs of and Massaro Corp., the space encompasses exciting opportunity for an architect,” luncheon for business, government and local legislators who recognize the importance Allies. Preliminary concepts include a variety the University’s schools, departments and classrooms, offices, and conference rooms. said Burger. “The University’s vision community leaders on April 23, the University of the Academic Village Initiative and the of trees, a water feature and complementary administrative offices. Thayer Hall’s ninth and tenth floors are and integration with Downtown Pittsburgh creates some extraordinary announced the results of a study conducted impact it will have on Downtown Pittsburgh. retail elements. The University expects to break WTW Architects of Pittsburgh and now home to classrooms and offices in the design challenges, which I greatly by the Pennsylvania Economy League on the The legislators include: Sen. Wayne Fontana, ground on the park in fall 2009. Comprehensive Facility Planners, Inc. new School of Communication. In addition, enjoy.” He said he also appreciates Economic Impact of the Academic Village Sen. Jay Costa, Rep. Jake Wheatley, Rep. Paul Governor Ed Rendell and Pennsylvania (CFP) of Columbus, Ohio are working the Department of Criminal Justice has collaborating with a variety of and provided an update on design and Costa, and Rep. Dan Frankel. Department of Transportation (PennDot) behind-the-scenes to help the University moved to the fifth floor of Academic Hall, architects and engineers and other develop its master space plan, including the Registrar’s Office moved to the ninth construction. “The past year has been one of significant announced that the University has been design team members, and looks floor of Thayer Hall, the PCHE Offices have According to the report, the Academic progress on the Academic Village,” said Point awarded a $3.95 million grant from its recommendations for locating academic and forward to engaging the involvement of Village will add nearly $280 million in total Park President Paul Hennigan. “We have Pennsylvania Community Transportation administrative spaces and other key facilities. moved to the second floor of Thayer Hall stakeholders such as students, faculty value to the economy. Commissioned by made $30 million in investments to campus Initiative for upgrades and enhancements to Last May the School of Business moved and the International Offices have moved and the University’s neighbors. the University last year, the study measured facilities, received widespread support from the Wood Street Corridor. The grant is the from Thayer Hall into its new home on floors to Frontier Hall.

20 www.pointpark.edu www.pointpark.edu 21 ESPECIALLY FOR ALUMNI

Dear Fellow Alumni,

Our 49th Commencement at the Mellon Arena was a stunning testament to the fine programs and graduates produced by Point Park. As we approach our By Kate Beard Miller 50th anniversary in 2010, I encourage alumni to reconnect with our University community. By submitting a Class Note, you can share your successes with fellow alumni and in turn, reflect pride on our institution. This is a wonderful A Metamorphosis of U opportunity to inspire future graduates who will follow in our footsteps. Point Park’s new campaign and website focus on the power of change

As part of the strategic plan for Point Park In addition, the site provides a Schedule a Campus Class Notes can be submitted in two ways: send your news to Point Park University, the Department of Marketing and Visit feature in which prospective students can University, Office of Alumni Relations, 201 Wood Street, Pittsburgh, Pa 15222- Communications has consulted with Smith select a time and date and their information 1984, or email [email protected]. We have lots to celebrate in the coming Brothers Associates for a redesign of the Web site and comprehensive marketing communications Admissions for follow-up. year and I hope you will join us. plan with a focus on enrollment. Early this year, is automatically forwarded Perhaps the most distinctto the Office of transformation of research and discovery sessions were conducted the Web site is the use of social media as a way for Sincerely, for each school and department within the prospective students to learn about the University University and a focus group of prospective through interaction with current students, students was included in the market research. The faculty and staff via online communities such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr, blogs and Park as a place where students can come to create more. This transparent approach demonstrates realoutcome of this effort is the definition of Point change. With the tagline “a metamorphosis John Taormina (A&S ’00, MBA ’01) of me,” the University marketing communicates provides prospective students with an inside look President, Alumni Association Board of Directors to potential students who are career-driven and a intoconfidence in the University and its mission and Point Park’s vibrant community. The new Web site and marketing campaign, The new Web site design is streamlined for launched in August, complement the Academic natural fit for Point Park. Village at Point Park University and support the aid calculator to aid prospective students and vision to become one of the most dynamic private, theireasy navigation with features such as a financial families in estimating tuition. This unique urban universities in America. feature was developed expressly for Point Park. What are you up to? (Your classmates want to know.)

A Special Thanks to the Starmakers The Class Notes section in The Point is expanding, Since its inception, Starmakers has raised more than $2 million through the support of our benefactors. and we want to include information about you.

Rising Stars - $15,000 Bronze Directors - $3,500 TKA Architects Mosaic Media Group – Mr. Jimmy Miller Ms. Francine and Mr. James Abraham and Turner Construction Company Share your news about: Dr. Katherine and Mr. Tracy Henderson United States Steel Corporation Gold Starmakers - $10,000 Barnes & Noble College Booksellers • Marriage • Birth or adoption Bognar and Company Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney P.C. Spotlight Supporters - $1,000 and above Federated Investors, Inc. Dr. Paul Caplan Anonymous • New job • Promotion Massaro Corporation Eden Hall Foundation Conservatory of Performing Arts Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh Advisory Board • Travel with alumni • In memoriam Silver Playwrights - $5,000 Dr. Paul and Mrs. Colleen Hennigan Plantscape ISS Facility Services Pittsburgh Allegheny Housing Rehabilitation TriState Capital Bank • Recent campus visit • Reunion with classmates Langholz Wilson Ellis, Inc. Corporation Littler Mendelson PC Aramark Corporation Louis Anthony Jewelers Back Stage Supporters - $999 and below Anonymous Medrad, Inc. Mr. Roger D’Emidio Howard Hanna Company It’s easy to send us your news: visit www.pointpark.edu/classnote NOVA Chemicals Mr. Philip L. Frank, P.L. Frank, Inc. PNC Bank Oxford Development Company Historical Society of Western Pennsylvania The Bank of New York Mellon today! Pittsburgh Trane Mr. Joseph F. Lagana The Tomayko Group, LLC Mr. Richard Rauh and Mr. Kenneth Gargaro UPMC Health Plan R.V. Associates Ms. Mary C. Scott UPMC Mr. Richard Mahala, Mahala Office Furniture Mary Beth Taylor, Esq. P.S. Feel free to share your photos with us, too, by emailing to [email protected] WTW Architects The Hill Group 34 www.pointpark.edua Photo by Jim Judkis Photo by Adjanys Marrero richard GoldberG Germaine Gibbs Alumni Profile Alumni Profile By Tammi Kaufman By Tammi Kaufman

t 33, Germaine Gibbs (COM 1996) is living n his daily duties as Deputy District A I her dream. Recently appointed as CFO of Attorney of Narcotics for Allegheny County, Animus Solutions, an IT management and the University of South Florida. Gibbs was Richard D. Goldberg (Bus 1971) never has an consulting service in Tampa, Fla., Gibbs also recruited to Eckerd Corporation as a financial average day. 1989 and prior to that he served as deputy runs her own highly successful spa and does analyst and quickly moved through the At any time during the day or night he district attorney for the Robbery Unit. modeling on the side. ranks to become regional manager, where could receive a call from a local police officer He credits much of his success to his Diverse as her interests may be, they she oversaw some 800 stores in the South looking for advice on a developing case, start at Point Park University, which he said the perfect combination for Gibbs, originally Florida region. As part of her duties, Gibbs or from any one of the seven attorneys he he chose to attend because of the locality and from Curacao, a small Dutch island in the was responsible for buying skin and nail care oversees in the narcotics unit. small class size. He recalled one class, taught Caribbean. products for 2,600 Eckerd stores. During that “We have approximately 20,000 cases by an instructor who also owned a trucking Gibbs chose to attend Point Park after time she got her skin care license and even per year and in our unit we handle anywhere company: “We, as a group, identified and being awarded a competitive scholarship from developed her own private label skin care line. from 1,200 to 1,400 felony drug cases, most solved problems relating to many aspects of Curacao to study in the United States. When Eckerd was sold in 2004, Gibbs of which carry mandatory sentences,” said the trucking industry. It was a very interesting She recalls the January day when she chose to take the severance package she was Goldberg. course. It was those problem-solving exercises first arrived in Pittsburgh. The cold wind offered and open her own spa, a lifelong dream In addition, at the request of District that prompted me to believe that law school blowing through the city buildings was a brisk of hers. Now five years later, her spa “Awa” is Attorney Stephen A. Zappala, Jr., Goldberg was the right direction for me.” reminder that she was a long way from home, considered one of the top wellness sanctuaries and others in his office work with many After graduating from Point Park in 1971, but Gibbs adapted quickly, soon becoming and spas in Tampa. community groups and task forces to try to he went on to earn his law degree from the president of the international club and earning In February, she accepted an offer to serve create drug prevention awareness. “We give University of Akron and soon after began prestigious internship placements. as CFO of Animus Corporation and finds advice as to what drugs are out there, what his career as a law clerk for a judge in the “Point Park was an incredible foundation the mix of business interests she has very to look for in people who may be using drugs Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas. for me,” said Gibbs. “I feel that the best fulfilling. She models on the side and even and how to identify people who may be selling Seeking more trial experience, he accepted a decision I made was going to Point Park finds time to volunteer for the Junior League drugs,” explained Goldberg. “That is as big a position in the District Attorney’s Office and because the classes were small enough that I of Tampa, reading to elementary children part of our office function as the prosecution liked it so much he has remained there ever got much more out of it than I could have in a every other week. of cases. Although our primary function is since. room with 300 other students.” “I really truly enjoy it all,” said Gibbs. “I prosecution of cases, we would rather people Goldberg has a 28-year-old daughter Following graduation she went on to just make sure my life is balanced.” She credits not use or sell drugs.” who also lives in the Pittsburgh area. In his earn an MBA with specialization in financing, her husband of three years, Michael Ashy, Goldberg has been serving as the deputy precious spare time he enjoys swimming, marketing and international business from with helping her to do that. district attorney in the Narcotics Unit since playing golf and spending time with his family.

24 www.pointpark.edu www.pointpark.edu 25 Transitions and Transformations he recent development of the Academic Village at Point Park University mirrors another era when Point Park was beginning the transition from a junior college to a college in the mid-1960s. The Tphotos below show the construction of a new million-dollar dormitory and student union. Founders Dorothy C. Finkelhor, then-president, L. Herbert Finkelhor, then-chairman of the board, and David L. Lawrence, then-governor can be seen breaking ground on the site. The dormitory, now known as Thayer Hall, originally housed 165 students.

The Finkelhors’ foresight for advancing academic achievement and expanding the campus can be seen in a new light through the Academic Village and the vision for the University to become one of the most dynamic private, urban universities in America.

Photo by Tom Bell

When asked about his long career job offer to work in the mailroom in

as a receiving operator and elevator Academic Hall in 1964, Evans proposed Notions Longest University operator at Point Park University, and started making wedding plans. He John Evans will proudly tell you he and Gwynne married on August 14, has witnessed the University campus 1965 and honeymooned in what was Employee Retires grow from a single building to 10—and then the Sherwyn Hotel. Two years counting! After a 45-year career with later, Point Park purchased the hotel the University, Evans retired in July. as the second building on campus and and Reveals His Evans moved into the building, which was to sleep in past his usual weekday housed the new mailroom. wake-up His first indulgence in retirement time of 4:30 a.m. From “Back then, when the college Story of Point there, he joined an afternoon bowling was young, I used to deliver the mail Breaking ground league and Bible study. Evans said he would have plenty to do in retirement wasn’t long before the mailroom staff Park’s Growth considering his wife, Gwynne, has been organizedto offices,” thesaid mail Evans. into However, mailboxes it lining up activities and projects over for pick-up as a result of the growing the last year. Point Park community. Over the Years “I thought I’d work at Point Park Evans fondly reminisced about for some time, but I didn’t expect it those who encouraged him along By Kate Beard Miller to be this long,” Evans said during the way, including the late Earl Main, an interview prior to his retirement. who passed away on January 26, Although, he was sad to leave 2009. Main had retired from his job Lawrence Hall behind. While Evans as purchasing agent in 1994 with had worked in at least seven different the second longest career of 40 locations during his career at the years. Main was hired in 1954 by University, Lawrence Hall is most the Business Training College, the special to him. predecessor of Point Park University. Evans met his wife in 1962 at a Evans and his wife have one

vocational school. He knew she was daughter and two grandchildren. They Nostalgic the woman he would one day marry, recently vacationed at a dude ranch in the Catskill Mountains of New York, could honor his parents’ desire for a family favorite where they enjoy but needed to find a job so that he riding horses, playing croquet and exchanging vows. After receiving a ballroom dancing. him to fulfill one year of work before 26 www.pointpark.edu www.pointpark.edu 27 Some roles never Alumna die. They don’t even fade away. Rehearses James Krut (COM 1968) found his role of a lifetime in 1978 in the cult classic Dawn of the Dead. In one of the horror movie’s most memorable scenes, Krut is a zombie who walks under whirling helicopter blades Every Step and loses part of his head.

The “helicopter zombie” found himself invited to film, horror movie and even comic book conventions as interest in George Romero’s movie grew over the of Believe years. He traveled to Europe and across the United States to meet fans. Krut still makes appearances at By Colleen C. Derda conventions and maintains a Web site and Facebook and MySpace pages devoted to the role. “It’s an intense show for us five days a week.” “Fans just love the scene,” he says. The Gettysburg, Pa. resident has had other parts in movies and on stage, run through early entertainment capital and keeps but it’s the zombie role 2010. The show in touch with many Point Park that continues to generate interest. People want to know continues to develop graduates based there. She also about the special effects and as Criss Angel, the trains and works for Sonya Tayeh how the role came about. mentalist known Dance in L.A. “I was on my way to a movie in Oakland,” explains the for his television Chu’s past work includes Point Park graduate, “and I ran into Tom Savini, and he show, integrates new serving as a company member asked if I wanted to be in a movie he was working on.” illusions and the for Mark Meismer’s Evolution. production changes She appeared in commercials for Savini, a colleague from the Pittsburgh Playhouse, was a make-up and special effects artist for George based on audience Quizno’s and Herbalife and was Romero’s film. He soon brought Krut to his studio and Pam Chu is in the first row, second from left. feedback. The artists a featured dancer in television made a casting of his friend’s head, adding several rehearse most of the specials for E! (“Hollywood’s inches to the forehead area. The final prosthetic was day and perform two Sexiest Jobs”) and Scrubs (“The rigged with fishing line that when pulled caused the Dancer Pam Chu (COPA ‘00) shows a night. Musical”) and in the film Walk fake head to fly away in slices, spurting imitation blood. rehearses every track in Cirque “It’s an intense show for us Hard. Last year she appeared du Soleil’s Criss Angel Believe. The Bravo network dubbed Dawn of the Dead one of five days a week,” says Chu, on the cover of Dance Spirit the country’s top 100 horror movies. During a special Promoted to a swing position By Colleen C. Derda noting that the dancers are magazine. on the 100 scariest movie moments, the network cited only months after being selected either performing or back-stage Pam Chu graduated magna Krut’s scene as particularly memorable, he says. as an artist, Chu needs to be switching elaborate costumes, cum laude. ready if another artist becomes Jim Krut continues to take on roles in movies and changing from rabbits to various “Doug Bentz was a big regional theater. He retired this past spring after a sick or can’t perform, even as career writing for newspapers, editing a magazine and other animals. Getting ready influence on me. Along with Alumnus she rehearses her own evolving for every role adds a whole other Point Park professionals, heading communications for a statewide association. role. The show, choreographed new level to the challenge, but he helped to shape the dancer I Keeps Coming Back to by Wade Robson, has 22 From his earliest days at Point Park—which he entered Chu’s professional and personal am today.” as the school’s first recipient of a Pennsylvania dancers and two swing positions. outlook means she takes the The University has also Newspaper Publishers Association scholarship—Krut “It’s demanding, but combined his passions for journalism and acting. Now additional work in stride. helped shape the dance career rewarding to help maintain the Zombie Role the balance has shifted, and he is looking forward to “The cast is amazing,” she of Pam’s sister Jillian. After integrity of the show,” says Chu having more time for movies and theater. says simply. graduating from Point Park five Visit www.helizombie.com to see a video [who works with fellow Point Chu was one of 200 years ago, Jillian Chu (COPA clip of Deadlands 2 and check out upcoming Krut recently played the lead in Sister Mary Ignatius Park student Bruce Weber in the Explains it All for You at Gettysburg Stage, a theater dancers invited to audition for ‘04) has immersed herself in swing role]. appearances by Jim Krut, the helicopter zombie. company he helped to found. “It was my first time in Wade Robson for the show in contemporary dance, playing a a habit,” the 6’4” actor deadpans. Believe opened in the Luxor Los Angeles. She continues role in the San Diego community Resort and Casino in Las Vegas to maintain a home in the as founding director of BOUND He also has roles in three new horror films, including last year and is expected to Deadlands 2: Trapped, which premiered in 2008.

28 www.pointpark.edu www.pointpark.edu 29 class notesnotes

holds a doctorate in traditional talent and swimsuit competitions. He is currently hanna Newman, Ph.D., professor in the School of Arts and Sciences Department naturopathy from Clayton making his Broadway debut in HAIR after a of Humanities, is planning a reunion in Paris for all alumni who took part in past College of Natural Health. To successful run in Central Park. He is a cofounder find out more, go to www. of MGC Productions, an LGBT based company Ctrips to France. Newman has been taking Point Park students to France for over 30 healingcirclemassage.com. promoting human equality. years. Past trips have included visits to Normandy beaches, the Cannes Film Festival and 1997 Paris. In May, Newman offered an on-site course in contemporary French culture as part of Taryn Hughes (COPA 1997) is Fresh from graduation with the United States the Global Studies Program. The group stayed in Paris and toured all around the city. founding executive director of Secret Service, Greg Lipner (A&S,2007 M.S. ’07) Youth Abilitation, a non-profit provided protection for President Barack Obama group for at-risk youth in Los and his family during the days and weeks before If you have participated in a previous trip to France with Point Park, please let us know! Angeles. Youth Abilitation is and after the Jan. 20 inauguration. Lipner Please email John Pine, manager of alumni relations, at [email protected] or Channa dedicated to developing the graduated into the Secret Service just five days Newman at [email protected] with your most recent contact information. We want David Whalen (COPA 1982) is portraying the role inner support system of youth before the inauguration, however, he has been 1982of Russ Coble in the new CBS medical drama Three to make sure all alumni who participated in previous trips can come to the upcoming reunion and young adults. Community programs offer in training since June of 2008. In preparation Rivers on Sundays at 9 p.m. The show centers event in Pittsburgh this winter. Discussions are underway for an alumni trip to Paris in the multi-sensory, interactive curriculums including for the inauguration, Lipner worked between 12 around an elite team of transplant surgeons in a meditation, mindfulness, movement, yoga, and 20-hour days. He said he hardly notices the RETURN TO PARIS spring of 2010. Pittsburgh hospital. The show’s pilot features a discussion, reflective expression and instructional long hours because he enjoys his work. While on scene with five Point Park men’s basketball players mentoring to engage growth and self-discovery. duty, Lipner met the president and his family and and two athletic staff members in which a player To learn more about Youth Abilitation, visit the several celebrities, including Smokey Robinson. is injured during a practice session and treated for Web site at: Youth-Abilitation.org. an injury. THE

A MAGAZINE FOR ALUMNI AND FRIENDS OF POINT PARK UNIVERSITY A group of alumni performed a new work titled WinterPOINT 2008 Anthony2006 Hollock (COPA ‘06) was crowned queen Rise, chroreographed by Kiesha Lalama-White Whalen, recipient of the 2009 Kevin Kline Award supreme in the Broadway Beauty Pageant Charity (COPA 1995), at the Grier School in Trenton, Pa., for Outstanding Leading Actor in The Lieutenant Competition benefitting the Ali Forney Center, in March. The performance was organized by of Inishmore, teaches graduate acting at Point which provides shelter and services to homeless Jocelyn Labriola Hrzic (COPA 1994), artistic Park’s Conservatory of Performing Arts and acting LGBT youth in New York City. Hollock competed director for the Grier Summer Program, as part of at Carnegie Mellon’s School of Drama. Whalen against four other Broadway stars in the pageant, the school’s annual gala. took part in Pittsburgh’s City Theater production of A New complete with interviews, School in the Speak American and Pittsburgh’s Irish and Classical Digital Age Theater production of Doubt, where he starred as Father Flynn.

Kathy Gruver (COPA1992 1992) First row from left: Marlana Walsh The Point Reader Survey (COPA ’01), Kiesha Lalama-White, Thanks to those who participated in The Point the magazine as above average. Stay tuned as has produced and released her Kiki Lucas (COPA 1999), Allison first instructional massage DVD, Becker, Lauren Garson (COPA ’04); Reader Survey. The survey helps the editorial the editorial team implements the newly defined back row from left: Jamie DelGrosso team to gauge reader interests, expectations mission and goals of The Point. Therapeutic Massage at Home: (COPA 1999, COM, M.A. ’07); Jocelyn and impressions. The response to the survey has Learn to Rub People the Right Way. Labriola-Hrzic; Mia Price (COPA provided valuable feedback and is the basis for Congratulations to the survey participants who This DVD teaches the beginner 1993); Jason McDole, faculty member in the Conservatory of Performing several changes to be implemented in the future. won the random drawing on April 3: Robert how to do massage for home health. Rick Arts; Kellie Hodges and Cassandra Tarpey (COM 1979), Joseph R. Greco (BUS Taylor. Reifenstein (COPA 1992) wrote and performed Generally, the survey results indicate a positive 1971), Ron Slotnick (BUS 1969), Rod Jeffries the original soundtrack for the DVD. Gruver impression of The Point with 90 percent of (BUS 1971) and Howard Dobrushin (A&S respondents rating their overall impression of 1971). The winners received a $50 Visa gift card.

30 www.pointpark.edu Women’s Soccer By Kevin Taylor

Team Takes Its Games To Europe

The game of soccer has opened many who finished up her soccer career last doors for the members of the Point Park fall. “I always wanted to study abroad, women’s soccer team. Because of soccer, but for one reason or another it never they’ve had the opportunity to receive a came together. But because of soccer college education while competing at a and Point Park, I was able to get a great high level in the game they love. In the experience.” process, they’ve made lifelong friends. The Pioneers spent three days in “If you talk to everyone who made the No one kept score during the exhibition Reffner and Trainor both listed visiting But over spring break last semester, they Amsterdam and three days in Paris, and trip,” said Reffner, “They’d tell you that games because the results were not the the top of the Eiffel Tower as one of the had an opportunity to take their college they played an exhibition soccer game in the money was secondary. The trip paid most significant part of the contests. highlights of the trip. And Reffner said soccer experience to a whole new level. each of the cities. The players had plenty us back and more. To be able to take Instead, it was more about two groups she enjoyed the Sacre Coeur, a church in of time for sightseeing, and they also that trip with your friends and play the of young ladies sharing soccer as the Place du Tertre part of Paris. From Feb. 27 to March 6, the women’s attended a professional soccer game. sport you love is a once-in-a-lifetime something they have in common. soccer team traveled to Europe on a trip opportunity.” “Hopefully the players will want to travel that allowed them to compete overseas The trip was funded in part by the “The language of soccer is universal,” on their own and see the world because and have a life-changing, learning fundraising efforts of the women’s Jeroen Walstra, who is in his fifth year said Reffner, a native of Waynesboro. “It of the trip,” said Walstra. experience. soccer players. The Pioneers started as Point Park women’s soccer coach, is was really great to see that although the their fundraising in December of 2007, a native of Holland. At a team function opponents spoke a different language and “I would love to live in Paris,” added “The trip was by far the best thing I’ve more than 14 months before the trip. The following the 2007 season, players came from a different culture, we could Trainor, a native of Pittsburgh. ever done during my time at Point Park,” players paid the difference out of their brought up the idea of going to Europe. get into the flow of a game with them.” said midfielder Molly Reffner (COM ’09), own pockets. Walstra took it from there and organized “The trip taught me to be open-minded the trip with the help of a travel agency. When the team attended a professional and enjoy things that are new and game between Feyenoord and Vitesse, it different,” said Reffner, an advertising and “We had a group that had a goal to get was a totally new soccer experience. public relations major. “I could not have this done,” said Walstra. “After a lot of asked for a better ending to my soccer effort on their part, they had an excellent “Going to a soccer game with 35,000 career and my time at Point Park.” experience that most students don’t have crazy fans was something that I had a chance to get. They learned so much never done,” said Amanda Trainor, by being exposed to different cultures. a junior midfielder majoring in early It’s something that should be included in childhood education. “Soccer is so everyone’s college education. important in Europe, and seeing that will help us as a team.” “And because the trip was soccer- related, the experience was much stronger. The players got to see places where soccer is an essential ingredient in the way of life. That is not something they see in their home country.”

Photography by Frankie Donlon, 32 www.pointpark.edu sophomore photojournalism major www.pointpark.edu 33 NON PrOfIT The POINT OrgaNIzaTION POINT ParK UNIVerSITY U.S. POSTage 201 WOOD STreeT PaID PITTSbUrgh, Pa 15222 PITTSbUrgh, Pa PermIT NO. 1674 www.pointpark.edu

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POINT PARK UNIVERSITY Alumni Events

> Alumni Community Service Projects For details on these events > Distinguished Alumni Banquet as they become available, visit us online > Downtown Networking Series at www.pointpark.edu or on Facebook > Holiday Party at http://tinyurl.com/PointParkAlumniFB > Paris Trip Reunion Volunteer to help at any of these events! > Student Club Reunions Contact Kelly Clawson at > Women’s Leadership Series [email protected] or 412-392-4204. > Networking Mixers: Education Department Humanities and Human Sciences School of Business School of Communication

> Regional Alumni Reunions across the country SNEAK PEEK 2009-2010