For more information, contact: Dr. M. Susanne Samson at 610-396-6133 or [email protected] ALUMNI NEWS MESSAGE FROM THE CHANCELLOR

On the cover: Luminaries glow along the path to the Labyrinth on the evening of the Spring Equinox Festival. “When you care enough to send the very best …” TABLE OF CONTENTS Message from the Chancellor ...... 1 allmark used this tag line for years and all of Alumni News Class Notes, Response Form ...... 2 us know the slogan and Blue and White Society Sponsorship Form ...... 2 believe that Hallmark Calendar of Events ...... 3 represents the best in greetings cards. Sustainability Tour of Berks Is Theme of HRIM Dinner . . . . .4 HThe idea of being the best has been Development News replicated in many other advertising Financial Officer “Shows College the Money” ...... 4 Alumnus Turns Lifelong Love of Trains into Iconic Aart . . . . .5 campaigns … “if you want the best, then buy our product.” Sometimes continuing education/outreach News this is conveyed nonverbally through Summer Camp 2008 ...... 6 Adult Information Session 2008 ...... 6 images that speak of quality. As I was considering this issue’s greeting, the COLLEGE News Featuring 50 Alumni for 50 Years ...... 7–9 Hallmark tag line kept floating through my mind and then I Advisory Board Members Help College Reach Goals ...... 10 realized that we at Penn State Berks live that quality every day. 50th Anniversary Events ...... 10 I believe that the faculty members we have here at Penn Academic News State Berks represent the best in higher education. They are Communication Arts and Sciences Degree excellent teachers and researchers and more importantly, Prepares Students for Information Age ...... 11 they understand that we are here for the students. Our staff is Desjardines Uses Experience To Help Others ...... 12 Beauty Meets BEIST ...... 12 unparalleled in quality and their ability to work with the students to meet their needs. They are always going out of their way to STUDENT NEWS Berks Raises $23K for Pediatric Cancer through THON . . . . . 13–14 give students richer experiences while here at Penn State Berks. Finally, I have to look at the students; they are the best! This Penn State Berks’ Blue & White is published three times a year by the Office of year, Zachary Karazsia, president of the Student Government University Relations. Association, presented the first SGA State of the College Editor ...... Lisa R. Weidman Art Director ...... Jessica L. Simmons address. Zachary even beat me to using our new teleprompters Photography ...... Theo Anderson, Kopicki Photography for his address. Zachary understood that we all have to work Contributing Writers . . . . Heather L. Angstadt, Jane L. Bauman, John A. Gallagher, ...... Laura L. Harak, Jess M. Krysiuk, Lisa R. Weidman together to find ways to “make life better” for everyone, especially the students. He made me “Penn State proud.” Send correspondence to: Lisa R. Weidman, Penn State Berks, PO Box 7009, Reading, PA 19610-6009 or e-mail [email protected]. Recently, Penn State Berks was given the opportunity once again to reach out to the world through our students when the This publication is available in alternative media on request. The Pennsylvania State University is committed to the policy that all persons shall have ROTC program was scheduled to return to the campus after equal access to programs, facilities, admission, and employment without regard to personal characteristics not related to ability, performance, or qualifications as determined a six-year hiatus. The ROTC program falls under a unique by University policy or by state or federal authorities. It is the policy of the University to designation in that it is taught by members of the military rather maintain an academic and work environment free of discrimination, including harassment. The Pennsylvania State University prohibits discrimination and harassment against any than by our faculty. person because of age, ancestry, color, disability or handicap, national origin, race, religious ROTC had been on our campus for decades but in 2002, creed, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status. Discrimination or harassment against faculty, staff, or students will not be tolerated at The Pennsylvania State University. Direct when the military was trying to cut costs, they suspended the all inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policy to the Affirmative Action Director, program at Berks. The good news is that in the reinstated form, The Pennsylvania State University, 328 Boucke Building, University Park, PA 16802-5901; Tel 814-865-4700/V, 814-863-1150/TTY. U.Ed. BKO 08-69 students can take the full four years of ROTC here rather than having to move to University Park after two years. Once again this gives us the opportunity to train the very best. Chancellor’s Podcasts Keep Alumni So to our alumni, if you have friends, children, or grand- and Friends Informed children who are considering what school to attend, remember, Want to know more about what’s “when you care enough to send the very best,” send them to happening at Penn State Berks? Penn State Berks. We are the best and We Are … Penn State. Now you can hear current information about the college through Chancellor Speece’s monthly podcasts. Podcasts are digital audio recordings that are available on the Internet and can be accessed on Dr. Susan Phillips Speece, Chancellor, Penn State Berks a computer or portable MP3 player. Just visit berks.psu.edu and click on Chancellor’s Podcasts under News & Events.

1 Spring 2008 Spring 2008 2 ALUMNI NEWS CLASS NOTES A Gift Wrapped Where Are They Now? in Blue and White 1955 For only $10, you can For less than $1 per month, Walter H. Imboden, B.S. in Mechanical you can open another door Engineering, is a WPI alumnus. He provide a student with has retired at age 77 from a full-time for a Penn State Berks student. technical consulting position in the an extracurricular -expe textile industry after serving as Vice In an effort to extend the benefits of membership in the Blue President of Product Development rience that will create a and White Society to as many first-year students as possible, at three large textile corporations and the Penn State Alumni Association invites you, as a life member previously as Chief Engineer at Textile lifetime of memories. of the PSAA, to sponsor a student’s membership. The Blue and Machine Works in Reading. Imboden is the holder of more than 30 U.S. White Society is a dues-paying student organization that provides and foreign patents. He and his wife, a valuable avenue for social interaction and networking. Johanna, a Penn State alumnus, live in Burlington, NC. Births “The Blue and White Society is entering its second year at 1987 2005 Penn State Berks. We are the largest group on campus and Kristy J. (Knutson) Cross, B.A. in Grant S. Persing ’05 and Nichole with your support we can continue to grow. I have encouraged Advertising, married Robert Cross in Persing, had their third daughter, Emma all students to get involved in the Blue and White Society. September 2006. She works for Noel, on 12/22/07. It’s a great way to meet new friends, become involved in the Armstrong World Industries in Lancaster community, and get connected to alumni.” as an Infrastructure Analyst. She and In Memory – Timothy Hillert, Berks Blue and White Society President her husband reside in Lancaster, PA. Charles E. Dautrich, 90, q WPI Class of ’37 Yes! I would like to sponsor _____ students. Paul W. Foster, 91, Total: $10 x number of students your sponsoring = $______WPI Class of ’37 q I have enclosed a check payable to Penn State Daniel Alan Goulden, 39, Class of ’92 OR please charge my: Bernard P. Kase, 83, q MasterCard q Visa q AmEx q Discover WPI Class of ’48 Robert M. Kondrath, 52, Card number Expiration date Class of ’78 William J. Schucker, 69, WPI Class of ’58 Signature on card 1990 Herbert W. Speck, Sr., 82, Please mail form and/or check to: Scott R. Burky, B.A. in Pre-Law, WPI Class of ’48 was recently selected by the Central Penn State Berks Blue and White Society, c/o Heather Angstadt Pennsylvania Business Journal for Kyle Lee Staniszewski, 36, Tulpehocken Road, PO Box 7009 their Forty Under 40 Award, which Class of ’94 Reading, PA 19610-6009 recognizes business leaders under Joseph E. Zdunowski, 89, the age of 40 for their commitment For more information, please contact the Office of Alumni WPI Class of ’40 to professional excellence and their Relations at 610-396-6052 or via e-mail at [email protected]. community. Burky is employed as Vice President of Sales and Customer Class Notes Response Form—Please keep us informed about where you are and what you are doing. Service at D&E Communications in Ephrata. He currently serves on Alumna/Alumnus Name PSU Class Year the Harrisburg Regional Chamber Last (Maiden) First M.I. Board of Directors and the Junior Attended: PSU Berks U.P. Other Degrees: Associate Bachelor’s Master’s Doctorate Achievement of Central PA Board of Directors. He and his wife, Kay, Discipline (Do Not Abbreviate) reside in Lititz, PA. Spouse’s Name PSU Class Year Last (Maiden) First M.I. Attended: PSU Berks U.P. Other Degrees: Associate Bachelor’s Master’s Doctorate 1996 Discipline (Do Not Abbreviate) Estelle H. Wynn, B.S. in English, went on to earn a master’s degree in Environmental Studies: Conservation Address City State Zip Biology from Antioch University, New England in November 2004. She works Phone (day) (evening) E-mail as an Easement Manager by Brandywine Conservancy in Chadds Ford. Wynn Place of Employment Title resides in Philadelphia, PA. Address City State Zip 2006 Samantha S. Nelson (Smith), B.A. Special News (degrees earned at other colleges/universities, awards, children, etc.) in Applied Psychology, is employed as an Associate Addiction Counselor at Caron Treatment Centers in Wernersville. She and her husband reside in Parkesburg, PA. Return this form (with photos) to: Lisa Weidman, Penn State Berks, PO Box 7009, Reading, PA 19610-6009; or send information via e-mail to [email protected]; or visit our Web site: berks.psu.edu/alumni/classnotes.htm

1 Spring 2008 Spring 2008 2 ALUMNI NEWS ALUMNI AND DEVELOPMENT NEWS

Berks Alumni 2008 Calendar of Events

October 21–WPI APG Meeting, 2:00 p.m., Janssen Office Building.

October 23–Chancellor’s Circle Dinner, 6:15 p.m.–reception, Freyberger Gallery; 7:00 p.m.– May 17–Spring Commencement, dinner, Perkins Student Center featuring graduates from Class July 1–Penn State Berks Day! Multipurpose Room. of ’58, keynote speaker: Anne L. Official 50th Anniversary of Penn State Berks!History book Stevens, Chairman, President, and signing by Dr. Harold Perkins, Dr. Frederick Gaige, and Dr. CEO of Carpenter Technology Susan Phillips Speece, 3:00–5:00 p.m., Bookstore. Celebration Corporation, 10:00 a.m., Beaver including a short program from college’s leaders, birthday cake, Community Center. “Berks Bits” 50th ice cream, and live music, 6:00–8:00 p.m., outside the Perkins Student Center. Rain Date: July 2, FREE.

July 16–Penn State Berks Alumni Society Meeting, 7:00 p.m., May 18— Janssen Office Building. October 23–Ghost Stories Tour Three events, one great day! August 19–WPI APG Meeting, with Charlie Adams ’82. Join In the student parking lots off Broadcasting Road 2:00 p.m., Janssen Office Building. paranormal expert Charlie Adams for a tour of Berks County. For The Concours D’Elegance Car Show September 3–Penn State Berks more information, contact features a world-class display of Alumni Society Meeting, 7:00 p.m., Ralph Tutlane, 610-777-7312, classic and historic vehicles. Janssen Office Building. [email protected]. 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., FREE.

West Reading/Wyomissing Rotary Club’s Chicken Bar-B-Q, 11:00 a.m.– 3:00 p.m., $8 includes bar-b-q chicken, cheesy potato, baked beans, macaroni salad, and a roll with butter. September 10–Major Celebration of 50th Anniversary Open to the community, featuring fun, food, and festivities, including remarks from Penn State President Graham Spanier, “Berks Bits” 50th ice cream, 50th anniversary postage cancellation stamps, and much, much more! 1:00–4:00 p.m., outside Perkins Student Center, FREE

October 4–Alumni Reunion Held in conjunction with Parents and Family Weekend (October 3–5). For The Junior League of Reading presents its Touch-a-Truck more information or to join the reunion event. Have your child climb on, scramble over, and touch committee, contact the Office of Alumni to their hearts’ desire their favorite vehicles and trucks. In Relations at 610-396-6052. Visit addition, there is entertainment, food, and raffles.11:00 a.m. berks.psu.edu/alumni for updated –3:00 p.m., $5 admission. Children under 2 are free. information throughout the year.

3 Spring 2008 Spring 2008 4 ALUMNI NEWS ALUMNI AND DEVELOPMENT NEWS Sustainability Tour of Berks County Is Theme

of HRIM Dinner —by Heather L. Angstadt ’04

griculture has always played each entrée and wine and why a crucial role in the economy the combination was paired of Berks County, as well as together. Desserts were donated the foundation of Penn State by Steve Stetzler ’93, HRIM AUniversity, so it seems fitting that this alumnus, owner of the Deitsch year’s Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Eck Restaurant, and president Management (HRIM) dinner would feature of the Schuylkill Valley Chapter a “Sustainability Tour of Berks County.” of the Pennsylvania Restaurant The four-course dinner was held on Association. February 5 in the Perkins Student Center. Penn State Berks HRIM The program began with an overview of alumni and students host the the HRIM program from Dr. James Bardi, annual theme dinner to give HRIM Program Coordinator and Assistant alumni the opportunity to Professor of Hospitality Management, reconnect while contributing Students involved in the HRIM dinner proudly stand with their professor, Dr. Jim Bardi (back row, far right). followed by students Alishia Mull, who to the HRIM program, and to discussed why she chose the major, and allow students to showcase Kyle Farina, president of the HRIM Society. their skills and talents learned in the an HRIM alumnus or work in the hotel, Throughout the evening, John program to family and friends, while restaurant, or institutional management Walker ’93, Director of Housing and networking with alumni. field and would like to help organize the Food Services at Penn State Berks and All Penn State alumni are invited to 2009 dinner, please contact the Office of HRIM alumnus, provided information on attend the annual HRIM dinner. If you are Alumni Relations at 610-396-6052. Financial Officer “Shows College the Money” —by Lisa R. Weidman

here’s no bigger Penn State fan Joyce Mays, an Albright College or loyal Penn State alumnus than alumna, earned her bachelor’s degree Berks’ Financial Officer Dennis in mathematics. She is employed by Mays. So it was no surprise that FirstEnergy Corp. he and his wife, Joyce, committed $68,000 They have a son, Matthew A. Mays, Tto endow a scholarship for business students. who is a sophomore business major at Berks The Dennis L. and Joyce E. Mays campus, where he also serves as Student Trustee Scholarship for Business will be Government treasurer, a lion ambassador, awarded to students who are majoring in and an orientation leader. business and have financial need. “Some people say I bleed blue and The Trustee Matching Scholarship white,” says Mays. “I’ve found that the Program, implemented in 2002 upon Penn State spirit is that proud feeling approval by the University’s Board of within, knowing that you’re a part of Trustees, is designed to keep a Penn State something much larger that truly has a education accessible to all qualified history of success—success achieved with students, regardless of their financial dignity and integrity. We want to share that means. The program has a unique pride with others.” matching component: the University Mays serves as the financial officer for matches 5 percent of the principal of each both the Berks and Lehigh Valley campuses. gift annually and combines these funds He attended Berks campus for two years, with income from the endowment to beginning in the spring of 1975, and then effectively double the financial impact of continued his education at University Park, the scholarship. The program assisted To learn more about the Trustee graduating in 1979 with a bachelor’s degree more than 4,000 students University- Matching Scholarship Program, visit in finance. wide in 2006-07. giveto.psu.edu/Trustee online.

3 Spring 2008 Spring 2008 4 DEVELOPMENT NEWS CONTINUING EDUCATION/OUTREACH NEWS Alumnus Turns Lifelong Love of Trains into Iconic Art —by Lisa R. Weidman

n his Arizona studio, Bob Eckel ’57 captures the essence of the old steam locomotives that were once a staple of the American landscape, a lifelong fascination for the renowned painter that Ibegan when he was growing up in Reading. “As a young lad, spare moments would find me at the station, or hiking down the railbed, wishing for a train to come by,” Eckel explained during an interview. “Railroading got into my blood and wouldn’t get out.” In fact, he was so intrigued by trains that he saved his earnings from a paper route to purchase a camera and began photographing the splendid “iron monsters” as they roared past. These photographs and his vivid memories, along with vintage drawings, provided the inspiration for his detailed oil paintings. Eckel’s Northmont Nemesis beautifully depicts the Reading Railroad. “Today the steam locomotive has totally disappeared from American railroads,” Force, and he was stationed in Arizona Phoenix, Arizona, where he earned a B.A Eckel commented sadly. “It is my desire to where he reconnected with the Eckels, who in Art. recreate for posterity this part of our history.” had moved there in the 1960s. He began painting full-time after Eckel recently donated one of his cov- “When I was just fourteen, I recall retiring from Allied-Signal Aeorspace eted paintings to Penn State Berks’ perma- cruising up Route 61 with Bob and Noreda Company in 1989. He credits his wife with nent collection. The painting titled North- in an old Chevy, trying to beat one of the encouraging him to pursue this second mont Nemesis, which beautifully depicts Reading Railroad’s steam engines to Port career after she discovered unfinished train the famous Reading Railroad, is proudly Clinton,” commented Rehrer. “We’d chase drawings in an old notebook. displayed in the campus’ Thun Library. these big beautiful ‘ghosts from the past’ on It was during this time that Eckel honed his skill for rendering his beloved “Today the steam locomotive has totally disappeared from trains. His works invoke nostalgia with his attention to detail and remarkably accurate American railroads. It is my desire to recreate for posterity portrayals of these historic images. this part of our history.” Eckel’s works can also be found on —Bob Eckel, WPI Class of ’57 display across the country in such prestigious venues as The White House, as well as the The donation was spurred by a gift weekend ‘rail rambles’ just looking for the Pennsylvania Railroad Historical Museum; of a history book about Penn State Berks, right photo opportunity. Bob later turned Steamtown USA in Scranton, Pennsylvania; Eckel’s alma mater, sent to him by Penn some of those photos and memories into and the Winfield Museum in Winfield, State Berks Chief of Police Robert Rehrer. gorgeous paintings and captured history.” Iowa. He has presented paintings to Eckel and Rehrer have a longtime friendship, Eckel attended Wyomissing Polytechnic celebrities such as the late singer Johnny dating back to when Eckel worked with Institute from 1955-1957, earning an Cash and former President Richard Nixon. Rehrer’s father at Carpenter Technology. associate degree in metallurgical engineering. Penn State Berks is honored to Eckel and his wife, Noreda, would take He worked as a chemist for both Glidden be among the recipients of his iconic Rehrer to see the trains when Rehrer was Paints and Deer-O Paints. Later, he resumed artwork. a young boy. Then Rehrer joined the Air his studies at Grand Canyon College in

5 Spring 2008 Spring 2008 6 DEVELOPMENT NEWS CONTINUING EDUCATION/OUTREACH NEWS Penn State Berks SUMMER CAMP 2008 Thinking of High School CAMPS For students entering grades 9–12 Starting or DISCOVERING ENGINEERING Learn how engineers solve problems Completing and create products with a special focus on rockets, robots, and race cars. JuLY 7–11 Your Degree?

DISCOVERING Film and tv–BASIC Go behind the scenes and learn how Penn State Berks has a variety Middle School CAMPS films and television shows are produced of options available for the from a technical point of view. Middle working professional. ENVIRONMENTAL ECOLOGY schoolers and high schoolers work AND SCIENCE together in this camp. Explore and learn about the world JuLY 7–11 around us and how we contribute to its challenges and solutions. DISCOVERING FORENSIC For students entering grades 5–8. SCIENCE Adult Information JUNE 23–27 Investigate the fascinating world of forensic science. Learn the tools and Session DISCOVERING FILM AND TV–BASIC techniques of CSI professionals. Tuesday, July 22 Go behind the scenes and learn how JuLY 7–11 films and television shows are produced from 6:00–8:00 p.m. from a technical point of view. Middle DISCOVERING MATERIALS Janssen Conference Center schoolers and high schoolers work ENGINEERING together in this camp. An introduction to the classification JuLY 7–11 and processing of metal, polymers, ceramics, and composite materials and IMAGINATION STATION how they are used in the production of An adventure based on J. K. Rowling’s everyday items from sporting equipment For more information, Harry Potter series involving crafts, to iPods. call 1-800-BERKS-CE or drama, games, and more. JuLY 7–11 For students entering grades 4–8. visit berks.psu.edu/ce. JULY 14–18 Discovering Veterinary Science SCIENCE OF TECHNOLOGY Gain an understanding of the tools, Learn about the world of engineering techniques, and realistic situations in a and technology through the use of veterinary practice. Lots of hands-on K’Nex and LEGO systems. learning as well as career options. For students entering grades 5–8. JuLY 7–11 AUGUST 4–9 DISCOVERING Film and tv– ADVANCED Building on the knowledge presented in the Discovering Film and TV–Basic camp, participants will focus on the details of production and learning the editing process. JuLY 21–25

A residential option is available for high school camps held July 7–11.

Scholarships are available. For more information, call 1-800-BERKS-CE or visit berks.psu.edu/ce. 5 Spring 2008 Spring 2008 6 DCOLLEEVELOPGE MNENTWS NEWS DEVELOPCOLLEMEGNTE NEWS Featuring 50 Alumni for 50 Years In honor of Penn State Berks’ fiftieth anniversary in 2008, theBLUE & WHITE will feature 50 alumni over the course of several upcoming issues. Although these proud Penn Staters work in a variety of different fields, they all share one thing in common: they graduated from or attended Penn State Berks at one time.

If you would like to be included in our “50 Alumni for 50 Years,” please send us your information (full name including maiden name, graduation year, major, current position, employer, and your favorite memory of your time at Penn State Berks) along with a high quality photo. If the photo includes other people, please include names. Photos will be returned with self-addressed stamped envelopes. Information can be mailed to Heather L. Angstadt, Office of Alumni Relations, Penn State Berks, PO Box 7009, Reading PA 19610-6009, or submitted via e-mail to [email protected]. We regret that we may not be able to include all entries in the magazine.

Dave Apfelbaum, 1974, Hotel and Food Service, Manager of Risk Management, Osceola County Government, Kissimmee, FL

I remember... “Catering the first banquet in the student center, we had to transport the food from the vo-tech school near the airport.”

Paul Frankhouser, 1965, Engineering, Linda M. (Repoley) Fox, 1979, President, Frankhouser Medical Device Consulting Spanish, ESL Teacher at Governor Mifflin Senior High School I remember... “Some of the best years of my life were at Penn State Berks. I I remember... was SGA President, received the Outstanding Service Award “At that time, there was no women’s at graduation, and was the first campus Alumni Fellow.” soccer team at Berks. My friend, Sharon Hoffert, and I tried to get enough support to begin one, but we failed. My Jim Walter, 1973, Chemical daughter, now 17, has played soccer since Engineering, Instructor in she was about 5, and cannot imagine a Business, Penn State Berks time when girls did not have soccer teams and leagues.” I remember... “Moving from my first year at Penn State Berks in the VF Doug Keuscher, 2004, Business, Outlet complex to my second Network Administrator, Penn State Berks year in the new Luerssen Building at the new campus I remember... was like going from the Stone “My most memorable moment at Penn State Age to a ‘Jetson’ futuristic setting. I have always bled blue and Berks was graduation because not only was my white and am amazed that I was in the first class to graduate family there but also many of my friends and co- from the new Berks campus. In my wildest dreams, I would workers who I had worked with for many years. have never predicted that I would be privileged to be teaching The well wishes I received from them that day at the same campus.” made the moment all that more memorable.”

7 Spring 2008 Spring 2008 8 DCOLLEEVELOPGE MNENTWS NEWS DEVELOPCOLLEMEGNTE NEWS

Stephen D. Janny, 1980, Featuring 50 Alumni for 50 Years Chemical Engineering Technology, Senior Research Specialist, Wacker Polymers

I remember... “Bath tub races during Nittany Lion Week and my adviser, Dr. Jack F. Chapin.”

Denise Wessels, 1993, Civil Engineering, Project Manager, SCS Engineers, Reston, VA (picured in front row, sixth from left) Tara Romanyshyn, 2003, Marketing, Buyer, Mack Trucks (pictured far right) I remember... “Some of my fondest memories have to do with being a Lion Ambassador at Berks. We had a LA outing at a I remember... Hershey Bears hockey game, and through a frenzied effort, “My favorite memories of Berks we were able to get the whole arena to do the ‘We Are … are meeting my best friends. The Penn State’ cheer. We had great leadership at Berks from friendships I made at Berks will last Jack Gemmell and Blaine Steensland with support (very me a lifetime. The girls I went with tolerant support I might add) from Connie Dunston and were fortunate enough to meet the late Teddi Borelli. Blaine would give us the ‘word on the street’ Jenny Bender at Berks, who passed each day we asked, words like somnolent, schema, away in November after a two-year erumpent, and nadir. I met some great people I will battle with cancer. She was truly an never forget.” angel and because of Berks, we were all able to be close with her.”

Jon Frankowiak, 1994, Exercise Science, Clinical Research Associate II, RPS Inc., Fort Washington, PA

I remember... “Penn State Berks opened up my world to theatre and writing, and through ROTC, I learned discipline. SGA and SAC kept me civic minded, and I remain a steward to my community. Penn State Berks gave a provisional academic a strong base for success.”

Andrew Marker, 1984, Finance, Assistant Vice President and Community Gwendolyn (Weiser) Malecki, 1995, Curriculum and Office Manager, National Penn Bank Instruction, Assistant Principal, Boyertown Area Senior High School

I remember... I remember... “I remember the Outing Club. We hiked “My best memories were the friends from all professional backgrounds many trails, cooked over open fires, and tent and demographic areas and then, ultimately, bonding and networking camped in Pennsylvania. Friendships I made with those whose goals and aspriations were the same as mine. We still at Berks campus continued when I moved to remain friends and support each other, tell stories of carpooling, projects, main campus.” papers and more papers, sharing school stories and events, and all the while giving big ‘blue and white’ smiles to each other!”

7 Spring 2008 Spring 2008 8 COLLEGE NEWS COLLEGE NEWS

Joe Mazza, 2000, Elementary Education, Michael L. Reinert, 1997, Civil Engineering, Principal of Knapp Elementary School (pictured center) Municipal Engineering Consultant/Shareholder, Technicon Enterprises Inc. II I remember... “My favorite memory of Berks is after a day of classes, coming home, I remember... changing, and playing mud/snow football outside the dorms—what “My memory of Berks is the personal relationships a blast! There were many social opportunities offered at Berks.” I had an opportunity to make with both the instructors and students given the smaller class sizes than what is customary at University Park. A. Michele Blood, 1996, Business I attended a small high school (Oley Valley), so the Administration, Customer Service Manager, initial step to Berks campus made the transition to Cambridge-Lee Industries, LLC the larger scale of U.P. much easier. I also had the opportunity to grow and mature more gradually, I remember... since I was a commuter student. It allowed me to “My second class I took as a night student was truly appreciate how the ‘real world’ worked in Psychology with Henry Patterson. Working trying to balance both school and a working lifestyle. full time and going to college at night were Berks campus has gone through some dramatic a struggle, but his words of wisdom that changes and I am glad to see how it has progressed semester in class have helped me in my since I attended Berks almost fifteen years ago. career, volunteering, and family life.”

Shawn Hinkle, 2001, Ellen Bordner, 1983, Computing Technology and Earth Science, Medical Science, Network Administrator, Technologist, Quest C.H. Briggs Company Diagnostics I remember... “Favorite memories of Berks include I remember... “Many fond memories of a being the Nittany Lion on several laid back small campus. I occasions, building the network lab, was a cheerleader and I winning a soccer championship, taking enjoyed a fencing class taught the Berks campus flag onto Beaver Stadium field for All by Sue Monk.” U-Day, and being able to graduate from Berks campus.”

9WeSpring 2008 Are ... Penn State! Spring 2008 10 COLLEGE NEWS COLLEGE NEWS Advisory Board Members Help College Reach Goals Interview with Ken Fulmer, P.E., PLS, President, Great Valley Consultants —by Lisa R. Weidman Ever since the first Penn State Berks Advisory Board formed in 1959, it has played a significant role in helping the college to achieve its goals through connections with the community. In this ongoing series of interviews with board members, Ken Fulmer, President of Great Valley Consultants, discusses his reasons for joining the board.

lthough Ken Fulmer is one of Park campus. He graduated in 1969 with and several large municipal sanitary sewer the newest members of the a B.S. degree in Civil Engineering. projects, just to name a few. Great Valley Advisory Board, his affiliation “It was a great experience because Consultants has twenty-nine employees, with Penn State Berks dates it offered me the opportunity to attend twelve of which are civil engineers. Seven back to his days as a student, attending college while living at home, save money, of those engineers graduated from Penn Awhat was then referred to as the Berks and prepare for the rigors of life at State and four attended Penn State Berks. Center from 1965–1966. ‘Happy Valley,’” he reminisces. When asked about his goals for “I want to make sure that the tradition After graduation, Fulmer held a the board, Fulmer emphasized the of engineering excellence started by variety of positions in the engineering importance of the campus continuing Wyomissing Polytechnic Institute contin- field, working for the Pennsylvania the University’s land-grant mission of ues,” explains Fulmer when asked why Department of Transportation and then making education affordable to all, not he joined the board. “Penn State Berks for a consulting firm. just the wealthy. is the only college in Berks County where In 1991, he and his business partner, Penn State is a family tradition for you can earn an engineering degree.” Scott Keefer, founded Great Valley Fulmer; both his niece and nephew “And Chancellor Speece asked me,” Consultants. Fulmer serves as president attended Berks campus and University he adds jokingly. of the company, which handles design Park. His niece earned a degree in Ag Fulmer comments that if he had not of infrastructure improvements and reha- Science and is employed by the University’s attended the Berks Center, he probably bilitation. The company also represents Department of Dairy and Animal Science would not have earned a Penn State planning commissions, mostly for mu- as an equine extension agent. His nephew degree. He was a member of one of nicipalities, as well as doing some private is currently majoring in Recreation, Parks, the first classes to begin their studies at work for developers. Some of their larger and Tourism Management. the Berks Center, then after one year, projects include preliminary design of the Fulmer resides with his wife, Denice, continue their education at the University Marshall’s Creek Bypass in Monroe County in Richmond Township.

ComeSunday, May 18, Celebrate2008: Concours D’Elegance Car Show,with Junior League’s Us!Touch-a-Truck event, and West Reading/Wyomissing Chicken bar-b-q, student parking lots off Broadcasting Road. Concours: 10:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., FREE; others: 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m., $5 for Touch-a-Truck, children under 2 FREE; $8 chicken bar-b-q includes cheesy potato, baked beans, macaroni salad, and a roll with butter.

Tuesday, July 1, 2008: Official 50th Anniversary of Penn State Berks! History book signing by Dr. Harold Perkins, Dr. Frederick Gaige, and Dr. Susan Phillips Speece, 3:00–5:00 p.m., Bookstore. Celebration including a short program from college’s leaders, birthday cake, “Berks Bits” 50th ice cream, and live music, 6:00–8:00 p.m., outside the Perkins Student Center. Rain Date: July 2. FREE.

Tuesday, September 10, 2008: College celebration, open to the community, featuring comments from Penn State President Graham Spanier and other University officials, a special Penn State Berks commemorative postage cancellation stamp, “Berks Bits” 50th ice cream, and much, much more! FREE.

For more information, please contact the Office of University Relations at 610-396-6053, e-mail [email protected], or visit our 50th Anniversary Web site at berks.psu.edu/50.

9 Spring 2008 Spring 2008 10 ACADEMIC NEWS STUDENT NEWS Communication Arts and Sciences Degree Prepares Students for Information Age —by Lisa R. Weidman

From the explosion of information on the Internet and cable television, to the restructuring of organizations into work groups, to the emergence of service industries, communication is one of the skills necessary for personal and professional success.

enn State Berks’ new B.A. degree students for a wide variety of careers, Rhetorical Criticism; Language, Culture in Communication Arts and Sci- there is flexibility in the curriculum. and Communication; and Communication ences (CAS) is a unique program Students take core courses that teach the Information and Technology. that prepares students for a wide foundational concepts in language, culture, CAS majors can pursue a number of variety of careers. With an emphasis on and communication; rhetorical and employment opportunities after graduation. Ppersonal communication skills, problem communication theory; and communication Graduates will be qualified for positions solving, teamwork, and critical thinking, research methods. in social and community services, law and graduates will be prepared to deal with The curriculum can be customized politics, business, management, human issues in today’s workplace. with additional courses in topics such as resources, event planning, marketing and The degree program is especially Organizational Communication; American public relations, college settings, health valuable for future leaders in business, politics, Political Campaigns; Intercultural Com- services, and entertainment. Students who and human services. Students who want to munication; Small Group Communication; want to continue their education will also be learn how to think critically, make compelling Rhetoric of Film and Television; Business well prepared for graduate or law school. arguments, solve problems, get along with and Professional Speaking; Social Influ- For more information about Penn State diverse groups of people, develop successful ence; Interpersonal Communication; Pop- Berks’ Communication Arts and Sciences relationships, and function effectively as a ular Culture and Communication; Conflict degree, please contact Dr. E. Michele member of a community will develop and and Negotiation; Gender and Communi- Ramsey, CAS Program Coordinator and refine these skills in the program. cation; Black American Rhetoric; Ethno- Associate Professor of Communication Penn State Berks offers the CAS degree graphic Methods; Social Movements and Arts and Sciences and Women’s Studies, at program with the two pathways or areas of Campaigns; Nonverbal Communication; 610-396-6148 or [email protected]. emphasis: Organizational Communication and Strategic Communication. In the Organizational Communication Pathway, students will learn about leadership, decision- making, interviewing, supervision, and teamwork in business and other organiza- tions. This pathway is highly recommended for future managers, administrators, entrepreneurs, or professionals in training. The Strategic Communication Pathway prepares students to critique or engage in public communication through effective message design and analysis, persuasion, and argumentation. This pathway leads to professions that involve oral or written persuasion such as sales, marketing, media, management, politics, or law. Since the CAS degree program prepares

11 Spring 2008 Spring 2008 12 ACADEMIC NEWS STUDENT NEWS Communication Arts and Desjardins Uses Experience To Help Others —by Jess M. Krysiuk and Lisa R. Weidman Sciences Degree Prepares hen Anne Desjardins was people on the importance of waiting tables to work her understanding their rights and Students for Information Age way through college, she organizing to attain better benefits. —by Lisa R. Weidman had no idea that someday Desjardins has also decided Wthe experience would put her in a position to focus her initiatives on an issue to help other young workers. that is particularly important to It all began when Desjardins, 29, her: the lack of affordable health began an internship last summer with insurance for workers age 19-35. United Community Services (UCS) of She explains that because Reading, where she investigated the various young workers are often viewed as youth coalitions operating across the country disposable, they are usually excluded and determined their mission and where from health insurance plans, or they attained their funding. they choose to not subscribe to a After two months of research, Desjardins plan because they do not have the created a sixty-page document that dissuaded responsibilities of a family. Lack the UCS from creating their own youth of health insurance often leads to troubling Outstanding Student Award for 2007 for coalition. Instead, the UCS has become a predicaments for young workers who find her research and educating young people community resource, providing information themselves in financial dilemmas when they on healthcare and insurance issues. and assistance to established groups in become sick or get injured. The American Studies major with a Reading and Berks County. “I am fortunate for the opportunity minor in both Communication Arts and The research compiled by Desjardins to make an impact on young workers. I Sciences and Global Studies will graduate inspired the UCS to offer her a position would like to become the person that young in May. When asked why she chose to major with the organization. In her new role, she people can ask for help or advice,” in American Studies, Desjardins explains, “I is continuing her research and providing comments Desjardins. really like people and learning about different young workers with general information on No stranger to conducting research, cultures: American Studies allowed me to topics such as what to expect in the job market Desjardins has received the Young focus on these issues and helping people.” and what it truly means to be a young worker. Investigator Award from Penn State Berks Her dedication to the region’s young After compiling her information, this year, as well as the Communication workers is proof that one person can have Desjardins plans to visit community Arts and Sciences Outstanding Student a far-reaching impact on the lives of many organizations and schools to educate young Award for 2008 and the American Studies others in the community. Beauty Meets BEIST The architectural firm RMJM Hillier was given a daunting challenge: design a new academic building that would serve the complex and varied needs of the Business, Engineering, and Information Sciences and Technology (BEIST) Division, meet requirements of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System, and fit into the picturesque landscape of Penn State Berks. They rose to the challenge with their schematic design concept for the new building, which has been dubbed the BEIST for the division it will house. The 58,000-square- foot building, which will be located between the Franco building and Thun Library and is slated for completion in 2010, will make use of technology in keeping with the college’s commitment to the environment. Additional information on the building’s progress will appear in future issues of the BLUE & WHITE magazine. 11 Spring 2008 Spring 2008 12 STUDENT NEWS STUDENT NEWS Berks Raises $23K for Pediatric Cancer through THON

“I chose to dance because, after losing my sister to pediatric cancer, I knew one of the things that helped me get through it was the support of family and friends.” —Chris Konnick, Penn State Junior

Students Kick Up Heels for THON

tudents at Penn State Berks and Garrett Guinivan. put on their dancing shoes for Konnick, a Business major from a worthwhile cause and raised Pottstown, had a personal reason for more than $23,000 to help dancing. “I chose to dance because, conquer childhood cancer at Penn after losing my sister to pediatric SState’s Children’s Hospital through cancer, I knew one of the things that THON, the dance marathon to benefit helped me get through it was the the Four Diamonds Fund held at Penn support of family and friends,” explains State every year. This is the highest Konnick. “Showing support for these amount Penn State Berks has raised for families and kids over the months we THON to date. Penn State University spent preparing for THON is the least raised more than $6.6 million, a record- we could do to help a battle they fight breaking total that exceeds the 2007 every day. THON is my way of giving total by more than $1 million. back all the support that was given to From February 22–24, Penn State my family.” students from every campus gathered at Penn State Berks raised $23,787, Top photo (left to right) Berks student Chris Konnick; Four Diamonds family members Jason Swope, Frank Swope, and the Bryce Jordan Center on University which was counted toward the total Abbey Swope; Berks students Garrett Guinivan, Stephanie Park campus for a forty-six hour, “no of $6,615,318 raised University-wide, Cubillos, and Aurora Beani; and Four Diamonds family members Daniel Swope and Lisa Swope. sitting, no sleeping” dance marathon. a record for Penn State. This year’s Representing Penn State Berks were proceeds brought the total raised since Photos on left show highlights of THON at University Park campus. juniors Aurora Beani and Chris Konnick, its inception to more than $50 million and sophomores Stephanie Cubillos for the Four Diamonds Fund.

13 Spring 2008 Spring 2008 14 THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON STUDENT NEWS STUDENT NEWS

Berks Raises $23K for Pediatric Cancer through THON —by Lisa R. Weidman Lecturer Donates CD Proceeds to Benefit THON n his blues CD titled Storyville, advisees. I wanted to give something back Micheal Kane tells tales through his to the campus and University, and I believe music, from driving in a 1955 Buick that THON is a great way to do that.” Century without air conditioning Kane, senior lecturer in speech from Pennsylvania to Texas, to more communications, has been playing the Iserious issues, such as teenage soldiers piano since age eight, and has played whose youth is a casualty of war. in local bands since the late 1960s. He But it’s the story of what he did with has conducted research on American the proceeds from his CD that is most jazz at Tulane University in New Orleans compelling. He is donating all proceeds and taught jazz courses at Penn State to the campus’ THON fundraising efforts. Berks during his twenty-five year tenure “Since this is my last year here at at the campus. Berks, I’ve come up with a project to To purchase a copy of Storyville, give something back,” explains Kane. contact the campus Bookstore at “I’ve calculated that I have had more 610-396-6100, or visit their Web site at than 7,000 students over the last twenty- psuberks.bkstore.com. five years at the campus, plus nearly 700

Students Boost THON Fundraising through Events

he road to THON began at importance of community service Penn State Berks in October in the middle school students. 2007 with various fundraising In planning the dance, activities and events through- sophomores Mathew Kovalich, Tout campus, including canning week- an Elementary and Kindergarten ends, a Halloween dance, a 5K walk/run, Education major, and Kahlie a sweatshirt and button sale, a “Berks Long, an Elementary Education Idol” competition, a fashion show, and major, enlisted the help of the late night ice skating. Approximately middle school’s PEPP students, forty students participated in these engaging them in various tasks Sophomores Kahlie Long and Mathew Kovalich with the Nittany Lion. events, leading to a record total raised such as advertising, decorating, by the college in support of this worth- and collecting and accounting for the youth at middle schools and high schools, while cause. raised funds. encouraging them to pursue their full One of the larger fundraising events “Dance for the Cure” was an over- academic potential. Learning assistants was a dance organized by two Berks whelming success. It drew about 225 provide assistance to PEPP students with students who work as learning assistants teens, who kicked up their heels, enjoyed homework support, study-skill develop- with the Penn State Educational Partner- snacks, and had their pictures taken with ment, and individual and social growth. ship Program (PEPP). They coordinated the Penn State Nittany Lion. “I have been a PEPP learning assis- a dance at Northeast Middle School in Kovalich and Long both are learning tant at Northeast Middle School for two Reading. The event, called “Dance for assistants for PEPP, an educational years now,” said Kovalich. “These are the Cure,” was held on December 14, partnership under the auspices of the some of the greatest kids I’ve ever seen, and it not only raised more than $1,000 Penn State College of Education. PEPP and I wanted to show them that they can to benefit THON, but also instilled the supports academically underrepresented make a difference.”

13 Spring 2008 Spring 2008 14 THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON THON Bachelor'S DEGREE IN Bachelor'S DEGREE IN communication security and arts and sciences risk analysis f r a e y - r u o d e g o r p e e r g a r m S

The Bachelor of Arts in Communication Arts and Sciences is a unique degree program that prepares students for a wide The Bachelor of Science in Security and Risk Analysis can

variety of careers in today’s workforce. With an emphasis on 4 help put students on the front line in confronting threats to personal and public communication skills, graduates will be our security, responding to emergencies, protecting vital prepared to think critically and creatively, to solve problems, information, and helping to create laws and policies that make effective arguments and presentations, form valuable ensure personal privacy. This degree program will prepare interpersonal relationships, and work successfully in diverse students to work in fields such as cyber-forensics, financial environments. Students who want to continue their education crime investigation, emergency and crisis management, will also be well prepared for graduate or law school. and contingency planning.

For more information, contact: For more information, contact: Dr. E. Michele Ramsey Dr. M. Susanne Samson at 610-396-6148 or [email protected] at 610-396-6133 or [email protected]