Spring 2012 Spring 2012 Towson 3 News & Notes

Balancing Act The intrepid Luke Walz, 5, is all balance and agility as he walks a line of elementary playground equipment under the watchful eye of Michael Frankenberry, a student in TU’s Physical Education Teacher Education program. Luke and other home-schooled children came to a gym in Burdick Hall last fall as part of a kinesiology class, Physical Education Activities for Young Children. Andrea Boucher, professor of kinesiology, who has taught the class for nearly 40 years says, “This gives TU physical education majors an opportunity to plan and teach gymnastic activities, developmental games and sports activities to children ages 2 to 10.” DEPARTMENTS FEATURES International Gymnast International Dwight Normile’78/’81M.Ed., longtimeeditorof the her newroleas TU’s president. practical, organized, dedicatedtostudents, andmore, in Expect Maravene Loeschke ’69/’71tobepassionate, firm, loeschke the headcoach. championship whilecapturingaccoladesforplayersand record andmarcheddownthefieldtowin2011 CAA How the Tiger footballteampulledanabout-faceonalosing the sizzling stepsandachancefordancerstomake itbig. Andy ’96andBecky’97Funk, crisscrosses thecountry, offering Monsters ofHipHop, ahip-hopdanceconventionstartedby creating www.towsonalumnimagazine.com * TU PresidentialScholar Bridges Conference Winter Graduation Maravene More About web Batter Up Cold Play Head oftheClass class T. RowePriceFinanceLab Founders Gold philanthropy Tapping In Top Volunteers Meet thePresident alumni news president Available onlyat

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Published three times a year by the Division of University Advancement for Towson University’s alumni, faculty, staff and friends. Please send comments and contributions to Towson, University Relations, Towson University, t is great to be home. 8000 York Rd., Towson, MD 21252-0001. Telephone: 410-704-2230. Please send address Few people get the honor and privilege of changes to Alumni Relations, Towson University, I returning to their alma mater to serve as president. 8000 York Rd., Towson, MD 21252-0001. With my history at Towson as a student, faculty member, Maravene Loeschke President chairperson and dean, I don’t have to learn to love and appreciate this institution as its new leader. Towson Gary N. Rubin Vice President, University Advancement University resides soundly in my heart. I have the chance to give back to the institution that has given me my Ginny Cook Editor professional grounding, my creative drive, and my passion for personal and professional excellence. The groundwork Lori Armstrong Associate Vice President, Alumni Relations for any professional success I have had was laid by my Lori Marchetti Towson education. Art Director/Designer Also, I am pleased to return to a state that values Kanji Takeno higher education. I began my presidency balancing my Staff Photographer time on campus with advocacy in Annapolis during the Assistant Photographer legislative session and fundraising. Additional funding is Desirée Stover not forthcoming and cuts are a possibility. I continue to Students are Designers keep our legislative priorities and capital project needs at Katie Bryson, David Calkins, “my first priority the forefront. Pat Dideriksen, Chris Komisar and their best I am a proud participant in Towson’s past, but my Contributors interest in coming back as president is to lead Towson into Heather DeFillippis, Daniel Fox, interest will be at Hannah Kaufman, Emily Koch and Jan Lucas a vibrant future. I consider myself a servant leader who the center of all guides the institution’s vision, empowers our students, Office of Alumni Relations 410-704-2234 or 800-887-8152 decision-making. faculty and staff to do their best work, and removes as Towson University’s policies, programs and activities many obstacles as possible. Students are my first priority comply with federal and state laws and University System and their best interest will be at the center of all of Maryland regulations prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, age, national origin, decision-making. sex, disability and sexual orientation. Towson University is a smoke-free campus. The Presidential Inauguration date has been set for www.towson.edu September 14, 2012. We will honor and celebrate the www.towsonalumnimagazine.com university and its future throughout the week, followed by ” Homecoming Week where we will celebrate alumni and athletics. eco box I encourage you to re-engage with your alma mater. Visit Using this combination of the campus to marvel in its beautiful new views. Take in a papers saves the following:

performance, lecture or game. I look forward to meeting WOOD USE: 8 TONS

more of my fellow alumni and Towson supporters in the NET ENERGY: 22,000,000 BTUs coming months. GREENHOUSE GASES: 4,593 LBS CO2

WASTEWATER: 24,383 GALLONS

Maravene Loeschke SOLID WASTE: 1,546 POUNDS Environmental impact estimates were made using the Environmental Defense Paper Calculator.

The Towson text pages are printed on forest-friendly President Utopia Dull paper. The cover is printed on Utopia Gloss using Eco-Pride inks.

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Maravene Loeschke Michigan State aboard the USS Carl Vinson President on Veterans Day. P Gary N. Rubin TO Vice President, University Advancement Obama came to the Towson Center on 0 Nov. 26, however, to cheer for the Beavers, Ginny Cook 10 Editor who are coached by Craig Robinson, Towson University’s high Lori Armstrong Michelle Obama’s brother. The Obamas sat Associate Vice President, Alumni Relations courtside in an area cordoned off from the academic quality coupled with its low cost earned a Lori Marchetti rest of the crowd. Secret Service agents, Art Director/Designer spot on Kiplinger’s Personal sporting polo shirts and earpieces, roamed Finance list as one of its Kanji Takeno the stands throughout the game. Staff Photographer 100 “best values in public During breaks in the game, VIPs, including Assistant Photographer colleges.” Towson is ranked at incoming TU President Maravene Loeschke, Desirée Stover 76, a two-place improvement lined up to shake Obama’s hand. Designers from last year’s ranking of Katie Bryson, David Calkins, Murray of “Caddyshack” and “Ghost four-year institutions. Pat Dideriksen, Chris Komisar Busters” fame, sat in the stands. He came Contributors to support his son Luke, an assistant coach Heather DeFillippis, Daniel Fox, President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama came to the “It is an honor for Hannah Kaufman, Emily Koch and Jan Lucas for the Tigers. Murray also greeted the Towson Center when the Tigers played Oregon State University. Towson University Office of Alumni Relations U.S. president and spent time chatting with 410-704-2234 or 800-887-8152 The audience for the Tigers’ home opener against members of the Towson band. to be named a Towson University’s policies, programs and activities Oregon State University generated more hoopla comply with federal and state laws and University System Kiplinger’s best value of Maryland regulations prohibiting discrimination on than the players on the court. the basis of race, color, religion, age, national origin, Actor Bill Murray came to and remain in the sex, disability and sexual orientation. Towson University President of the United States Barack Obama, is a smoke-free campus. first lady Michelle Obama and their children, Sasha support his son Luke, an company of the www.towson.edu www.towsonalumnimagazine.com and Melia, were part of the 3,119 spectators who assistant coach for the Tigers. nation’s top schools watched the OSU Beavers defeat the Tigers 66-45. in maintaining Actor Bill Murray was also in the stands. eco box both quality and The president, a huge basketball fan who often At halftime the Tiger football team assembled on Using this combination of hits the courts for a pickup game, had attended the court with its 2011 Colonial Athletic Association affordability for papers saves the following: the “Carrier Classic,” in San Diego. The contest Championship trophy and had their picture taken students.” WOOD USE: 8 TONS pitted the University of North Carolina against with Obama. Maravene Loeschke NET ENERGY: 22,000,000 BTUs Towson University President GREENHOUSE GASES: 4,593 LBS CO2

WASTEWATER: 24,383 GALLONS

SOLID WASTE: 1,546 POUNDS Take another look at Towson online. Environmental impact estimates were made using the Environmental Defense Paper Calculator. The digital edition has links to websites and emails contained in the stories. You’ll also find Web extras, including information The Towson text pages are printed on forest-friendly about the Bridges Conference, the largest mathematics and art interdisciplinary conference in the world which will be held at Utopia Dull paper. The cover is printed on Utopia Gloss using Eco-Pride inks. TU July 25-29, 2012, and the January graduation speeches of Emily Casey, Caitlin Connor, Erin Crisp and Joan Wilhelm.

2 towson spring 2012 spring 2012 towson 3 news & notes

Coached by Mike O’Leary, with knowledge regarding Engineering Center (SEC) at director of TU’s Center the formalities of the busi- the U.S. Army’s installation for Applied Information ness world, but MentHER’s in Harford County. Cyber Skills Technology and profes- focus on women gives an The collaboration gives sor in the departments of experience to TU students Six TU students not only mathematics and computer and a recruiting tool that know cybersecurity, they and information sciences, “MentHER’s can revitalize the informa- know it pays off. the team follows in the tion technology talent pool Andrea Mobley, Brian focus on women winning footsteps of previ- at Aberdeen because so Cather, Jonathan Fragale, ous Towson students who gives an insight many personnel are slated Dustin Hanks, Dennis have been victorious in to retire in the next few Hayden and Roberto to what the ‘real three of the last four major years. Melendez teamed up to cyber defense competi- world’ will be Gonzalo Pareja, one win the 2011 Maryland tions in the region—the of 12 TU students intern- Cyber Challenge last fall. like.” 2010 CCDC Mid-Atlantic ing with SEC, worked on The victory gave each —Emily Jang, TU freshman Regionals, the 2010 CSC warfighter, logistics and student a $5,000 Cyb3rBattl3ground and the business service programs. scholarship from the insight to what the ‘real 2011 MDC3. “I saw army vehicles National Security Agency world’ will be like. It helped returning from being along with an offer me land an awesome job deployed, and I could for a paid summer MentHER in technology retail with a huge customer service relate that to what I do TU’s College of focus.” in logistics,” he says. Business and Econom- Supported by a grant Another TU intern, ics has come up with from Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Kathryn Baldwin, gets a hammer to help women the MentHER program has hands-on experience shatter that glass ceiling nine business women assisting with updates in the business world. It’s who mentor nine female of the SEC website. a program called MentHER, CBE students. They in which connects female turn mentor nine young students with women women in high school. from various business professions. Created by Laleh Malek, We Want TU CBE’s former Students are getting director real-world experience in of profes- the high-tech military world sional experi- via internship programs at ence, MentHER Aberdeen Proving Ground. emphasizes women’s career planning and em- “Knowing that powerment in industry. internship with SAIC, the things you do “MentHER is the perfect Victory, At Last an engineering and gateway for women to have an impact technology firm. The men’s basketball break into the business on soldiers makes The TU team defeated world because of the team ended the nation’s 12 other collegiate teams resources it provides,” it worthwhile.” longest NCAA Division I in a two-day competition losing streak (41 games) says Emily Jang, a fresh- —Kathryn Baldwin by successfully defending man pre-business major with a 66-61 victory over their computer systems participating in the TU’s Applied Information UNC-Wilmington on Jan. from attackers and fixing MentHER program. Technology and Computer 28. The Tigers trailed by as vulnerabilities. “Sure, being in the class- Science programs have es- many as seven points, but room equips any student tablished internship oppor- kept fighting, apparently tunities with the Software inspired after watching

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Muhammad Ali beat Diplomats R Us should be a corresponding Humanities, Moscow, George Foreman in increase in crime rates. Russia; More than 200 high the “rope-a-dope” However, the reverse is Joseph Rudolph, school students learned boxing match. true: TU’s rate is only professor, political science; the art of negotiation and a fraction of Baltimore Lecturing: Supporting the diplomacy last fall when County’s 35.69 crimes per Profession in Kosovo and TU hosted a Model 1,000 residents in 2010. Post-Communist Europe,

Some categories have American University of declined significantly. Kosovo, Pristina, Kosovo; For example, the campus Jeremy Tasch, assistant reported 119 thefts in professor, geography and 2011, as opposed to 366 in environmental planning; 1995 even as enrollment Integrating Local Places & rose by 50 percent during Global Perspectives, Kyrgyz the same period. Burglar- State University of Archi- ies dropped from a high of tecture and Construction 89 in 1997 to 11 in 2011. at the Institute of Ecology, Property crimes plummeted Kyrgyz Republic. from 442 in 1995 to 130 in 2011. United Nations program. Gardens Grow Developed by TU Profes- Fulbright Producer Plants will be sprouting sor Alison McCartney and Tea Time in the Cherry Hill neighbor- Baltimore County Public Towson University heads Lida Lee Tall, TU’s hood of South Baltimore, School teacher Hugh Ke- a list of colleges and uni- president from 1920 to thanks to a $60,000 grant arney, the one-day session versities that produced the 1938, invited students to from the U.S. Department brought together students most U.S. Fulbright Scholars have tea with her at the of Agriculture. from all socio-economic during 2011. The rankings, president’s Nadine Braunstein, backgrounds. released by The Institute house. grant administrator and They learned how the for International Educa- Ladies TU assistant professor United Nations operates tion, show Towson, with wore in the College of Health by taking on the role of five Fulbright honorees, to dresses Professions, says $45,000 member countries. Pairs of be first among 29 regional and will create community and students represented indi- institutions. gloves, school gardens through the vidual countries, learned Towson’s 2011 U.S. gentle- People’s Garden, an initia- about the country’s back- Fulbright Scholars are: man tive which provides access ground from a TU professor Brian Fath, professor jackets to fresh, healthy food and with expertise in the area, of biological sciences and education about urban and studied UN develop- and Distinguished Chair ties as agriculture and best dietary ment goals. in Environmental Sciences; they sipped practices. Parthenope, University of from pink- The remaining $15,000 Campus Crime Naples, Naples, Italy; flowered china teacups. will go to Towson to man- is Down Rebecca Pisano, director The tradition lasted into age the program. of the Study Abroad Office; TU’s 2010 Uniform the administration of Earle The project’s goal is to U.S.-Japan International Crime Statistics are the Hawkins, according to an create at least four school Education Administrators lowest —7.46 per 1,000 exhibit on TU’s presidents gardens and four community Program; students—among the in the library’s Special gardens and educate at Robyn Quick, profes- system’s 10 campuses. Collections room, researched least 200 residents about sor and chair of theatre What’s remarkable and displayed by Felicity gardening and nutrition, arts; Lecturing: Cultural about the university’s Knox ’94, library associate Braunstein told the Sun in Understanding Through success is that as the to the Archives. November. Dramaturgy, Russian campus grows and as the State University for the city of Towson grows, there

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Dead Ringer MAKEOVER GIVES NEW LIFE TO CLOCK TOWER BELL

There might be bats in the Stephens Hall belfry, who’d engraved their initials in the bronze decades earlier. but there’s no bell. (Note: Access to the tower has been restricted for many years.) TU’s 1,200-pound bronze bell is being restored at the It wasn’t difficult to trace the maker, since the McShane McShane Bell Foundry in Glen Burnie, Md., for the first foundry had stamped its name on the bell. What astonished time since the firm mounted it atop the clock tower in Hughes was that the business—founded in 1856 by an Irish 1915. The then-Maryland State Normal School paid immigrant—was still family-owned and going strong. $475 (about A McShane $10,600 today) representa- for the crown- tive visited ing touch to its the campus new signature to examine building. the bell and Although agreed with ? ] generations of Hughes about did you students relied its need for know? on the bell to TLC. A crane mark the hours, extracted Five TU building it has stood it from projects, three mostly silent— the cupola in West Village Exposure to the elements had taken a toll, and silently dete- on January Commons and two as had some pranksters, who’d engraved in the CLA building, riorating—for the 25, and were recognized past 20 years. their initials in the bronze decades earlier. McShane for outstanding Harry Hughes, workers craftsmanship director of transported by the Building systems management in Facilities Management, says the bell it back to the foundry. Congress and ringing ceased in response to some neighbors’ complaints. During the next few weeks the bell was thoroughly cleaned Exchange of “That would have been in the early ’90s, not too long and equipped with a new clapper, going in the process from Metropolitan after we’d renovated and reopened Stephens Hall,” he recalls. dull greenish-brown to lustrous gold. Once restored, it will be Baltimore in The bell tolled to mark a 9/11 anniversary, but its once- equipped with a remote-controlled electronic ringing system November. golden tone is seldom heard nowadays. with ringtones appropriate for both festive and somber Hughes suggested the makeover to Roger Hayden, associ- occasions. It was reinstalled in March. ate vice president for Facilities Management, after a building The details concerning future use of the bell are being evaluation of Stephens Hall. Climbing a ladder and hoisting discussed, says Hayden. “We will ring it in appropriate himself through a hatch in the floor of the belfry, Hughes took ways and at appropriate times,” he emphasizes. a close look at the 97-year-old bell. “This bell has been part of the campus for nearly a “I thought it was in pretty rough shape,” he says. Exposure century,” he adds. “Everyone I’ve spoken to would love to the elements had taken a toll, as had some pranksters, to see it back in service.”

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What’s New

Object Lab Fisher Professor Institute for Autism Director TU students got a techno Matthew Hemm, Well-Being Rhonda J. Greenhaw boost in December when assistant professor The College of Health was appointed director the Object Lab opened in of biology, is the fifth Professions launched the of the Center for Adults the College of Fine Arts recipient of the Jess and Institute for Well-Being, a with Autism and clinical and Communication. The Mildred Fisher Endowed collaboration among the assistant professor in ? lab is home to three- Chair in Biological and Speech, Language and the College of Health ] did you dimensional scanning Physical Sciences. The Hearing Center, Wellness Professions. Before know? and printing, laser endowment gives Hemm Center, Center for Adults coming to Towson, she cutting and CNC milling $15,000 for each of with Autism and Occupa- was a lead behavior TU has an NV3 equipment. Students three years to be used for tional Therapy Center. Each analyst in the Autism Technologies kiosk can digitize existing a summer faculty stipend, center provides health Services Program for in the Student objects for manipulation professional travel, outreach services and pro- Easter Seals in Wisconsin Union that rapidly and reproduction. For research equipment motes community wellness. and an adjunct professor recharges students’ example, the technology and supplies, and Now, via the Institute, the at the Chicago School of cell phones and can scan an existing undergraduate student centers will expand their Professional Psychology. tablets for free. body part to make a research support. Hemm focus on education and She has served on the matching prosthetic. teaches molecular biology research, while serving the Board of Directors of The process can also and researches the health and wellness needs St. Francis Children’s be applied to dentistry, abundance and function of the community. By fall Center and was a mentor combat weapons and of small proteins, and the of 2012, the Institute will to parents of children other areas, to determine short genes that encode be housed in downtown with special needs. She is how an object has failed them. His current project Towson. The new space will certified by the Behavior and what is needed to investigates the role of give each center the tools Analyst Certification improve performance. The small transmembrane to develop new clinical Board, and is a doctoral cutting-edge skills have proteins in cytochrome research programs, increase candidate in an applications in aerospace bd oxidase activity in E. outreach efforts and com- international psychology and defense, consumer coli and how the proteins munity participation, add program at the Chicago products, product affect cellular respiration, interdisciplinary programs, School of Professional development, prosthetics, and infection or and train and graduate Psychology. dentistry, medicine, colonization by bacteria. more students who will forensics, and art and Understanding how these enter health professions. design. proteins work may have an impact on infection

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creating a

MONSTERS OF HIPHOP, A HIP-HOP DANCE CONVENTION STARTED BY ANDY ‘96 AND BECKY ‘97 FUNK, CRISSCROSSES THE COUNTRY, OFFERING SIZZLING STEPS AND A CHANCE FOR DANCERS TO MAKE IT BIG. BY WANDA HASKEL

8 towson spring 2012 “Our whole mission when we started Register early. Spots are going fast was to give kids opportunities that in a city near you. weren’t there for hip-hop.” Monsters of HipHop dance convention has already sold out its 2012 – Becky Funk ’97 stops in Vancouver, W.A., Dallas, and New Brunswick, N.J. Not surprising given hip-hop’s When the conventions are over, popularity. This urban dance style is seven males and seven females are sometimes acrobatic and jerky, some- selected from the thousands of hope- times wavy and fluid, sometimes even fuls for coveted spots in Monsters’ Los dizzying. But it’s always entertaining. Angeles show. “All the L.A. agents are Maybe that’s why celebrities from there,” says Becky Funk, along with Justin Bieber to Janet Jackson are top artists and industry executives. roboting, gliding and popping. And Even Nigel Lythgoe, producer of hit why amateurs the world over dream FOX television talent competition of break-dancing their way into a shows So You Think You Can Dance career. and American Idol, attends. To help spin those dreams into Odds are those 14 dancers will reality, Andy ’96 and Becky ’97 Funk be booked by agents after the show (yes, Funk is their real name) founded and then go on to jobs in movies and Monsters of HipHop in 2003. It was television, and on tour with big-name the first all hip-hop dance convention In 2005, the convention evolved artists such as Britney Spears, Usher uniting unconventional movers and to include a Broadway-style show in and Lady Gaga. shakers with the entertainment indus- Los Angeles. The Monsters Show has Making it to L.A. can also open creating a become a showcase for rising stars in doors for dancers who want to move try’s top choreographers for intensive training and a shot at the big time. the commercial dance industry. “We re- into choreography. Just weeks after Skilled hip-hop dancers can make ally wanted to push the envelope with performing in the Monsters Show, says big salaries touring with pop stars, these careers being launched,” says Andy, JaQuel Knight went to work battling it out in television competi- Andy, so they started the L.A. show choreographing for R&B princess tions, performing in videos and com- “for the industry to introduce the next Beyoncé Knowles. That job turned out mercials and doing choreography. But crop of professional dancers.” to be the video for Beyoncé’s smash first those performers must be seen by anthem “Single Ladies (Put a Ring the people doing the hiring. on it),” and Knight has been in high Enter the Funks with a vision for BREAKING OUT demand ever since. creating career opportunities for danc- Nine years later, the Funks face The Funks get a kick out of seeing MONSTERS OF HIPHOP, A HIP-HOP DANCE ers and the courage to take a chance. competition from a whole crop of their little monsters make it big. “Our “It was a huge risk,” says Andy Funk, hip-hop dance conventions that fol- whole mission when we started was CONVENTION STARTED BY ANDY ‘96 remembering when they secured the lowed their lead. But Monsters is to give kids opportunities that weren’t AND BECKY ‘97 FUNK, CRISSCROSSES Philadelphia Convention Center for still out in front with an emphasis on there for hip-hop,” says Becky, who has been known to shed a motherly THE COUNTRY, OFFERING SIZZLING their first convention. “That was quality teaching and a positive, family- scary.” friendly culture evidenced by its clean, tear when she sees her “babies” on STEPS AND A CHANCE FOR DANCERS But Philly was a huge success— edited music and an unwritten no-diva stage. TO MAKE IT BIG. master classes were packed—and a policy. couple of months later they had a These days, the convention criss- BY WANDA HASKEL seven-city tour booked. “It just grew crosses the country throughout the from there,” he adds. year, stopping in 12 to 20 cities. At each site, usually in hotel ballrooms, Up to 700 participants take master up to 700 participants, age 6 and older, spend the weekend in master classes from the likes of Emmy- classes learning from the likes of winning celebrity choreographers Emmy-winning celebrity choreogra- Tabitha and Napoleon Dumo and phers Tabitha and Napoleon Dumo America’s Best Dance Crew winners and America’s Best Dance Crew Jabbawockeez. winners Jabbawockeez. All it took was that first convention and the Funks knew they had created a monster.

Becky and Andy Funk

A classically trained dancer, Becky age of 8 and as captain of TU’s dance Servant ’99, jumped in and organized grew up traveling the convention team (1995-96). Andy, a mass commu- the first Monsters convention in circuit and saw all the opportunities nication and communication studies Philadelphia. They didn’t know all the available for traditional styles like tap major, knew the ropes in business, A-list industry people, but they did and ballet. But she always preferred marketing and event planning through know that there was a lot of com- hip-hop and wondered why there his experience working in nonprofit mercial work and no good platform was no convention for the dance style development and for the Orioles. for connecting hip-hop dancers with whose explosive popularity makes it “At first we had one room in a fac- those opportunities. So Andy and his the most viable route for the com- tory building. No one could find us,” sister-in-law hit the Internet, research- mercial dancer. According to Becky, jokes Andy. ing top choreographers, and convinced “There was really a need for an all Students and their parents—drawn 10 of them to sign on. “They liked the hip-hop convention.” to the wholesome atmosphere and idea,” says Andy, but, he adds, they emphasis on high-quality instruc- were a little wary “because it was so tion—got there, though; and the new.” LEAP OF FAITH business, specializing in hip-hop but All it took was that first convention, It took a lot of hard work and guts also offering a range of other styles, though, and the Funks knew they had for the Funks to fill that need, begin- including jazz, tap and ballet, quickly created a monster. “Once the chore- ning when 24-year-old Becky came outgrew that one room and moved ographers were there,” remembers home and announced to her husband to Route 40 in Ellicott City where it’s Becky, “once they saw the energy and that after months of misery working been for eight years. There, the Funks how excited everyone was…that’s all in a cubicle, she had quit her job as a have 5,000 square feet, including a it took.” The instructors went back to health educator and planned to open a comfortable lobby and four spacious L.A. and started a buzz that aston- dance studio. dance studios, complete with custom ished the Funks. Soon, choreographers Andy was all for it. He hated flooring that helps prevent injury, and were approaching them, wanting to seeing the wife he’d adored since more than a dozen dedicated faculty. be involved, and dancers from all over their days as high-school sweethearts Dancers, ranging in age from 3 to the globe were training to make it to in Gettysburg, Pa., unhappy. So in 65, go to b.funk for everything from the L.A. show. (The word “monster” May 1999, they took the leap and recreational dance classes to top-tier takes on a special meaning in hip-hop opened the b.funk dance studio in professional training. speak. A dancer’s admirers might say, Ellicott City, Md. After a couple of years of growth “He’s killin’ it. He’s a monster.”) Becky had the dance background, and success with b.funk, Andy and Even for those who are truly tal- both as a competitive dancer since the Becky, along with Becky’s sister Angie ented, though, making it as a profes-

10 towson spring 2012 sional dancer is a struggle. Think driven and shaped us,” says Andy, professional athlete: limited spots speaking about his brother’s remark- FAMILY CIRCUS at the top, short peak-performance able courage and positivity in the Life, says Becky, is a juggling act. time, fierce competition. face of cancer. That’s why the Funks Not only do the Funks run the dance And while the Funks pave the established the Monsters on the Move studio, the convention and the founda- road for the super-talented to go pro, Foundation, which provides dance tion, but they also have a house full they also help dancers of all abili- scholarships for underprivileged kids. of boys to manage. Their sons Drew, ties keep their feet on the ground. One award even requires recipients to 11; Cooper, 7; and Beckett, 4, keep One way they do this is by offering “pay forward” their good fortune to their parents’ private time packed with a seminar for parents of kids who others, be it performing for seniors, homework, family meals and recre- want to dance professionally. It’s a organizing a dance marathon or teach- ational sports. reality check, says Gene Burdette ’96, ing a free class. “We don’t want to send How do they keep all those balls Monsters co-director and longtime a check blindly and then be done,” says in the air? They admit it can be hard family friend, “before they drop Andy. “We want to…create a sense of but credit a close circle of employees, everything and move to L.A.” Fami- giving in other people.” family and friends with making all the lies are advised on long-term career Andy and Becky are particularly travel and long hours possible. preparation and how to have realistic moved by folks who find positive ways And when it comes down to it, expectations for getting commercial to overcome obstacles. Scholarships the Funks happily do all this fancy dance work. have gone to a double amputee who dances on her knees and a deaf dancer footwork because they are deeply who uses vibration to guide his move- connected with the dancers and chore- STEPPING UP ment. ographers who share their dream. “We find a way,” says Andy, The Funks know all about realistic The couple’s track record as philan- because “we’re all family.” n expectations. They’ve had their share thropists may be why ABC’s Extreme Makeover Home Edition wanted to of adversity and even tragedy. Andy Wanda Haskel is a writer lost his brother Alan to leukemia in partner with Monsters for its 2011 living in Timonium, Md. 1990, and Becky was recently diag- Thanksgiving show. The featured fam- nosed with multiple sclerosis. But in- ily’s son, who dreams of being a profes- The Funks established stead of feeling sorry for themselves, sional dancer, received free training with Monsters choreographers, and the show the Monsters on the the Funks choose to turn hardship Move Foundation, into motivation for helping others. taped a segment at b.funk studios. “We’ve been inspired by a lot of which provides dance people and experiences that have scholarships for underprivileged kids. ABC’s Extreme Makeover Home Edition wanted to partner with Monsters for its 2011 Thanksgiving show. THE TURNAROUND TEAM How the Tiger football team pulled an about-face on a losing record and marched down the field to win the 2011 CAA championship while capturing accolades for players and the head coach By Pete Schlehr ’71

hey will forever be known as They stormed through New England, That losing record left the not-ready- the “Turnaround Tigers.” snowballing three of the region’s largest for-prime-time Tigers at the bottom of Towson University’s universities with wins over University the conference standings each season. Tfootball team emerged from of New Hampshire (56-42), University There was really no place for the Tigers the depths of a 1-10 abyss in of Rhode Island (28-17) and University to go but up. 2010 to a 9-2 summit in 2011. of Maine (40-30). But no one expected them to climb What’s more they climbed to the top Down south they toppled a so high. They went from a worst-to- of the Colonial Athletic Association’s monarchy with a dramatic victory first performance on the strength of a mountain—the Tigers were CAA 2011 over Old Dominion (39-35). They 9-3 (7-1 in CAA) season that closed champions. The team also earned its weren’t hospitable to Richmond with a final No. 9 national ranking. first NCAA playoff berth in more than (31-28) when the Spiders visited, nor “If we wanted to go somewhere a quarter of a century. were they the least bit neighborly to we’d never been and do things we’d And by playing their way into the Morgan State (42-3). never done before, then we had to post-season, the Tigers became the The Tigers showed no brotherly take a much different approach,” says first team to go to the NCAA post- love for Villanova (31-10) as Towson Ambrose, who was showered with season at the Division III, the Division beat more ranked teams than anyone post-season recognition for leading II and the Football Championship else in the country. The regular season Towson to one of the most exciting Subdivision (FCS) levels. losses were to University of Maryland turnarounds in college football history. The team’s 2011 storybook season (28-3) and an arch rival, University of “The same old way of doing business ended at Unitas Stadium in December Delaware (35-30). would lead to the same old results.” before a capacity crowd of 11,196 How the heck did they do that? Ambrose’s honors included the Eddie raucous fans. An old Patriot League It wasn’t easy. It took Tigers’ head Robinson Award as the National NCAA nemesis, Lehigh, beat them, but just coach, Rob Ambrose ’93, several FCS Coach of the Year, the American barely, escaping with a 40-38 FCS agonizing years to change the culture, Football Coaches Association Regional playoff victory. attitude and even the roster. Coach of the Year and the 2011 CAA That loss couldn’t tarnish Towson’s A turnaround was inevitable Coach of the Year. impressive resume, however. considering Towson’s 3-19 record that The new regimen resembled a boot- The Tigers downed two teams they included just one CAA victory against camp schedule. The first bell rang at had never beaten before—Colgate (42- 15 league losses in Ambrose’s first two 5 a.m. when players assembled for 17) and William & Mary (38-27). years at the helm of his alma mater. conditioning drills last January under

12 towson spring 2012 spring 2012 towson 13 the lights in Unitas Stadium. When o’clock in the morning. We knew that teams that competed for points. spring practices began they were held if we did these things long enough, the “Success is not a part-time job,” in the same venue, same time, long kids would start to believe because they says Ambrose. “We made everything before sun up. were doing something different.” count; class attendance, community “All of our work was done before Another cause for the pre-dawn early service, weight room work, attending 8:30 a.m. or 9 a.m., leaving the rest of gatherings was brought about when breakfast—everything carried points. the day for the players to concentrate on a monster sink hole forced university On Friday mornings we announced nothing but academics,” Ambrose says. officials to declare the lower practice the team leaders from highest to

“All of our work was done before 8:30 a.m. or 9 a.m., leaving the rest of the day for the players to concentrate on nothing but academics.” Head Coach Rob Ambrose ’93

“It allowed them to stay more focused. grass field off limits for safety reasons. lowest. We wanted the guys to know Besides, kids in college don’t get up and Ambrose put in for the early who was not doing the job too.” don’t eat right. The most important practice time on the stadium’s turf Frank Beltre, a rising senior who meal of the day is breakfast so we were field. None of the other Tiger sports’ redshirted the 2008 season under making sure they were eating properly. coaches challenged him. former Tigers’ coach Gordy Combs ’72, As the spring wore on we were starting Ambrose initiated another strategy saw right off a cultural revolution to become tough. Heck, they don’t start called “Tiger Accountability,” breaking was on its way when Ambrose and PT (physical fitness) in the army until 6 the entire squad down into smaller company arrived.

12 towson spring 2012 spring 2012 towson 13 “You could tell that Coach Ambrose Fork Union Military Academy for the 6-3, 212-pound signal caller from Old and his staff were coming in with a 2010 football season. He eventually Mill High School. “It sounded very mission,” says Beltre. “He told us made his way to the Towson campus intense.” right at the start that every little thing the following January, just in time for Enders had to play his way into his you do counts, like going to class, the chilly pre-season workouts. new team’s confidence. By opening sitting up front, maintaining grades, He was a non-scholarship player at game, he was the man. He didn’t not missing breakfast—whatever we the time and didn’t qualify for on- disappoint his new mates. He finished did, it counted. And once you took campus housing. Undaunted, West the season by throwing for 2,081 yards care of the little things the big things hopped an MTA bus from his Baltimore and 16 touchdowns. He scored another would fall into place.” home, rising at 4 a.m. each day to face five TD’s, ala Tim Tebow, on his legs. Beltre, an eventual All-CAA first the rigors of Ambrose’s program. “This was something that I hadn’t team defensive end, and his teammates The results of West’s commitment experienced before,” he says. “I’d bought the whole package. were staggering. never seen motivation from a team “Coach didn’t start talking about The 5-11, 220-pound tailback like they had but it was easy to winning until this year,” says Beltre, rushed for 1,294 yards and scored a understand, considering their past, who is a member of the CAA Academic national leading 29 touchdowns. A where they wanted to go and what All-Conference team. “The first Walter Camp, Associated Press and they had to do to get there.” two years he drummed into us the Sports Network All-American, West Co-captain Jordan Dangerfield, a importance of finishing. In the third year was named recipient of the first-ever first team All-CAA and second team he finally says, now is when we start Jerry Rice Award, symbolic of the All-American safety who has led the winning. I thought about everything he country’s top FCS freshman. He was Tigers in tackles each of the last two had told us and I knew he was right.” a unanimous selection for the CAA seasons (189 total), represents an Beltre enthusiastically, if not Rookie of the Year and most recently influx of Division I and BCS transfers courageously, predicted a winning was named the Eastern College who contributed to the turnaround.

“[Coach] told us right at the start that every little thing you do counts, like going to class, sitting up front, maintaining grades, not missing breakfast.” –Frank Beltre

record to the group whose pre-season Athletic Conference’s Offensive Dangerfield transferred from Hofstra poll picked the Tigers to finish last in the Player of the Year. after the Pride discontinued football 11-team race. Rising junior quarterback Grant several years ago. “When we went to the CAA media Enders was another new face who “I initially chose Hofstra because day last July I knew the kind of team we added more punch in 2011 as I wanted to be part of a program had, and I told the reporters there that Towson’s juggernaut offense averaged that was building,” the hard-hitting we were ready to win,” Beltre says. “I 34.8 points (13th nationally) and 431 defensive back from Royal Palm couldn’t imagine any other Division I total yards (17th nationally) per game. Beach, Fla. says. “When they shut team, whether they were FCS or BCS, Enders, who attended Holy Cross down the program I saw Towson as had worked harder than us. I feel the and Lackawanna Junior College before the perfect fit for me. Those of us entire program—everyone involved enrolling at Towson, didn’t arrive on who have transferred in from other with it from the staff to players to Mike the scene until August when summer programs have brought a certain level Waddell—had a hand in our success.” camp opened. But it was immediately of experience and maturity. We’ve Another player who listened intently apparent to him that he was stepping blended well with the guys who have to Ambrose’s message was freshman into an all-business environment. been here. We’re all on the same page running back Terrance West. “The older guys were telling me how and no one is being left behind.” West, a local product out of hard everyone had been working and Among the numerous achievements Northwestern High School, attended the schedule they had kept,” says the for the Tigers, who were noted as

14 towson spring 2012 spring 2012 towson 15 Junior Quarterback Grant Enders

Award Winners

Freshman Running Back Terrance West • A Walter Camp, Associated Press and Sports Network All-American Head Coach Rob Ambrose ’93 • First-ever recipient of the Jerry Rice Award, • Eddie Robinson Award as symbolic of the country’s the National NCAA FCS top FCS freshman Coach of the Year • CAA Rookie of the Year • American Football Coaches (unanimous choice) Freshman Runningback Terrance West Association Regional Coach of the Year • Eastern College Athletic Conference’s Offensive • 2011 CAA Coach of the Year Player of the Year

the most improved team in NCAA that a positive mental attitude Division I football in 2011, was a that will guide Towson University record attendance of 62,645 this to unchartered territory in terms season, an average of just under of athletics and academics.” 9,000 per game. Season tickets for next football Director of Athletics Mike Waddell season are currently on sale. senses an upswing for the entire Will Tiger Football fans be treated program while acknowledging the to the same excitement? contribution football is making. “Anything less than making “Our fall sports season as a whole a long run in the playoffs next was a wonderful way to launch the season will be a disappointment,” 2011-12 academic year led off by our says Enders. women’s soccer win over Loyola,” The Tigers return nine starters Waddell says. “With three teams on offense, nine on defense and making the postseason (football, everyone on special teams. Pile on volleyball, field hockey) the campus the 21 backups who will be joined was alive with Tiger Spirit. What our by a hungry group of redshirts and Senior Defensive End football student-athletes, coaches whatever transfers arrive, and a Frank Beltre and support staff did to take that ticket to a Towson football game excitement to even greater heights has just might be the best ticket in town. n set the stage for what we know will be a great future. Our charge is for Pete Schlehr ’71 was TU director of athletic media relations before his everyone to expect success and with retirement last June.

14 towson spring 2012 spring 2012 towson 15 Flowers from well-wishers surrounded Maravene Loeschke ’69/’71 during her first few days on the job as TU’s new president.

1960 1970 Before SHE WAS TOWSON’S President ’67 ’68 ’69 ’70 Awarded Performs in Glen Performs in Glen Appointed instructor at contract with Players productions Players productions Receives Bachelor of Science Towson State College fellow student, A Man’s a Man and Camille, Oedipus at in education and theatre from Dwight Schultz ’69, Colonus, The Crown Towson State College Silent Images: An Directs Towson State to star in local in the Heart, and 16 towson springEvening 2012 of Mime College production spring 2012 towson 17 television production Tobias and Sarah Performs in Glen Players production Christopher Columbus Look Back in Anger loeIIscn tthhehe LLkeeaaedd By Ginny Cook

Expect Maravene Loeschke ’69/’71 to be passionate, firm, practical, organized, dedicated to students, and more, in her new role as TU’s president.

aravene Loeschke ’69/ ’71 from a demanding but dedicated Those who know her (but not each shoved a baseball cap way faculty. Now the school had expanded other) echo astoundingly similar senti- M down on her head and to 22,000 students and added programs ments about this Towson graduate— strolled the campus one day last fall. and massive new buildings—includ- indefatigable, organized, unpreten- “I came incognito,” she says. ing the College of Liberal Arts and the tious, tough, open, honest, student “I wanted to look around and talk West Village student-housing com- focused, great teacher, great listener. with students.” plex—a suite of huge buildings that Loeschke had applied for the Loeschke dubs the “Olympic Village.” Being there presidency at Towson University, What she found when walking What’s easy to see is that Loeschke so the theatre major and former actor around and talking to people, though, is wonderful at making connections. was doing what she always did for was that despite its new construction Even before she formally arrived any part—researching the role and and population growth, Towson’s as president, she was out and about getting a feeling for the scene. small-school feel was intact. “The on campus—minus the baseball cap. Loeschke had been intimately students I met told me that,” she At the Homecoming game in Septem- connected with Towson, having notes. “I found I could go home ber, she made an appearance in the spent 32 years as a student, instructor, after 10 years because what I received president’s box, but soon walked over department chair and dean. But that as a student and what I value—that to the student section, cheering with was a decade ago, and with apologies individual attention and a faculty them in the stands. to James Agee and Thomas Wolfe, she who care—had not changed.” At half time she was on the wasn’t sure she could go home again And so Loeschke returned to sidelines, taking the band and the even if she got the job. Towson Jan. 1, becoming its 13th dance team into a huddle after their She remembered a university where president. performances and thanking them for students received individual attention So who is she? their time and talent. At the end of

1980 ’71 ’74 ’75 ’76 ’82

Performs in Appointed instructor at Receives Master of Education Appointed assistant Director Directs Towson State College Writes A Mime Dear World at the Towson State College from Towson State College professor at Towson of the Mime Troupe in Pablo Picasso: Program for State College High School A Mime Interpretation the Visually Maryland Arts Festival Theatre Handicapped Directs Towson State Directs Towson State College Performs in Workshop Writes All About Mime: 16 towson spring 2012 College production productions Toussant and Towson State College Directs Feminist spring 2012Understanding towson and17 Performing Look Back in Anger The Mime Show production Major Barbara Theater One Acts the Expressive Silence the game, she did the same with the “show must go on” mentality is, she football team. Loeschke’s Ph.D. dissertation focused on says, “the foundation for anything how mime could improve self-confidence Once she officially took over the top and physical expression in the visually I’ve ever done as an administrator.” post, Loeschke scheduled visits with handicapped. Here she is teaching a mime In fact, back in August 2009, class at Towson in the 1980s. each division and department so she Loeschke noted the similarities of a could get to know people and their good actor and a good leader in an work and they could know her and money. The state budget is bleak. article for the Pennsylvania Borough her expectations. She made the rounds “There will not be new funding from News, “Is Leadership Acting?” on campus and off, attending an SGA the state this year and probably not Neither acting nor leadership is meeting, a faculty seminar, a diversity next year,” Loeschke says. Instead, she about “showing off, deception, trickery, conference. wanted survey respondents to come up special effects, manipulation or ego,” She was even spied playing the tam- with creative problem-solving methods she wrote. Acting is “transforming bourine with the band at a women’s or ways to reallocate resources so people’s thinking and feelings by a basketball game, a performance that Towson can move forward. performance so honest that the truth wasn’t such a stretch. As president of In return, she promises to listen, of the human spirit has been captured. Mansfield, she was dubbed a “persis- saying she and administrative staff “Leadership is much the same. It tent percussionist” because she kept “are reading every word,” and will is an honest reflection of the human the beat with the university’s band at share the data and the rationale for condition. It is about service—service home sporting events. any decision. that produces positive change in one’s Her personal charm belies a leader “It’s her theatre training which work, family, community, country, the who means business. During her enables her to focus on what’s present, world and, most importantly, within spring address to campus, Loeschke what is being presented,” says Juanita one’s self.” was greeted with thunderous applause Rockwell, TU professor of theatre arts. when she said, “We are not going to Her skill at being in the moment is ‘A glorious life’ grow without new growth money. part of the reason she was such an im- Loeschke grew up in the Baltimore That is a definite.” pressive candidate for president. While County neighborhood of Parkville, a While she can be direct and tough being interviewed last August, the kid who “liked everything—reading, on some issues, she also believes in chandeliers began swinging and the science, baton twirling.” shared governance, meaning faculty hotel conference room was quivering. At Parkville High, the acting bug and staff can voice opinions, openly Loeschke was unnerved at being in the bit. She got the lead of Emily in and honestly, without fear of reprisals midst of an earthquake. Thornton Wilder’s Our Town and if their views differ from hers. One “She was calm in a sea of chaos,” “after that,” she explains, “there was of her first initiatives was an online notes Gary Attman, a member of no stopping me.” survey which sought, in detail, what the USM Board of Regents. “She She enrolled at Towson in 1965 as everyone in the university needs and suggested we move outside and an English and theatre major, part of wants, the problems they encounter continue the interview under a tree.” a fledgling theatre department started and any solutions they may have. Loeschke shrugs at the incident, by Dick Gillespie, the man she would The survey came with a caveat, noting that her Towson education and later marry. “He is the love of my however—don’t simply ask for more her theatre training, in particular that life,” she says. Then dropping her

’83 ’85 ’86 ’87 ’88 ’89

Appointed associate Performs in A Coupla Performs Performs in professor at Towson Performs in The White Chicks Sitting in The Glass State College Around Talking at the Menagerie at The Belle of Belle of Amherst, Performs Writes The Path Between, Maryland Arts Festival the Maryland Amherst at a one-woman in Agnes of a historical novel about the the Maryland show, at the Arts Festival Becomes chairperson18 of towson spring 2012 God at the family of Emily Dickenson Arts Festival spring 2012 towson 19 Department of Theatre Arts Maryland Arts Performs in The Lion in Winter Maryland at Towson State College Festival at the Maryland Arts Festival Arts Festival voice to an ominous tone, adds, “but The job also allowed her to act in the to write her a ticket for bumping I did not love him then.” Maryland Arts Festival for 25 years, along the Baltimore Beltway on a He insisted on personal and profes- and direct and act in multiple local tire that was pancake-flat. sional excellence. “He set the bar so productions—Driving Miss Daisy, Her strictness and high expectations high,” Loeschke recalls. “There were The Lion in Winter and The Belle were always tempered with loyalty 25 theatre majors who spent our lives of Amherst, which also spawned her and dedication. striving to meet his demands, to take first historical novel, a tale about the “One of the first scenes I did in artistic risks. He wasn’t making movie family of Emily Dickinson. Conservatory was a total mess,” stars. He was making artists.” “I was able to stay active in theatre recalls Kate Danley ’97, a playwright, As a member of The Glen Players, which made me a better teacher. It was author and actress in Los Angeles. Towson’s theatre troupe at the time, a glorious life—teaching what I love, “But rather than destroy my spirit by Loeschke found herself surrounded, doing what I love,” she explains. pointing out how awful everything

“I had never had a teacher see such a spark in me that she would give her free time so that I might see that spark, too. I am forever grateful.”

Kate Danley ’97

and, she admits, intimidated by All about students was, Maravene quietly asked me talented student actors who would Her passion left a lasting impression and my partner to come to the go on to stage and screen fame— on students who attribute their suc- theatre at 9 p.m.” John Glover ’66, Dwight Schultz ’69, cess to her devotion, quiet authority When they arrived, Loeschke had Howard Rollins. and ability to nurture talent without transformed the set, making the scene “I was scared to death of them,” destroying its spirit. come alive and, in turn, “we came she says. “Yet there was never a doubt Loeschke taught a six-credit com- alive,” Danley points out. that I would go to New York City and prehensive acting course—Conserva- “I had never had a teacher see such do the whole starving actress role.” tory—with a no excuses policy—being a spark in me that she would give But when she graduated Gillespie late or missing a class merited an F. her free time so that I might see that asked her to take a “temporary” Only once did she forgive a student spark, too. I am forever grateful,” teaching job in the theatre department. for being late and that was because the Danley adds. “She gave me some It would last for 32 years. student arrived with a policeman in of the greatest advice I have ever “I found out how teachers could tow, who explained the tardiness was received. I was there for her mother’s affect lives,” Loeschke says simply. his fault. He had stopped the student funeral. She was there to guide me

1990 ’90 ’91 ’92 ’93 ’94

Appointed Performs in George Sand, Appointed member professor at Performs in Driving Miss Daisy the Lioness of Berry at of graduate faculty at Writes the play 5 which Towson State at the Maryland Arts Festival the Maryland Arts Festival Towson State University is produced at the University and at the Baltimore Baltimore Theatre Project Directs Towson State Theatre Project Performs in 18 towson spring 2012 spring 2012 towson 19 Performs in On Tidy Endings University production Love Letters at the Performs in Two Rooms at at the Maryland Arts Festival A Tribute to John Cage Maryland Arts Festival the Maryland Arts Festival when I was going through my own theatre chair in 1983, to which she for faculty on the tenure and promo- tragedies. Though I don’t get to talk replied, “That’s ridiculous. You are tion track was to say, ‘We want you to her as often as I would like, I carry never going to listen to me.” Their here, so let’s help you figure out what her insight, wisdom and love with me answer? “You are the only one who you need to do’ versus ‘You figure every day.” is organized.” it out’.” Bruce Nelson ’89, a professional “I marvel at Maravene’s excellent When Loeschke became provost actor living and working in the organizational skills and her ability at Wilkes University in 2002, her Baltimore-Washington area, remem- to get so many things accomplished student focus was evident in the seven bers the Conservatory class as a place in a day,” says Rockwell, professor new academic programs she started.

“Loeschke has a way of connecting with just a look, a way of making you feel that you’re the only person in the room, even if you’re not, and genuinely cares about people.”

John C. Cavanaugh • Chancellor of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education

where “our green minds were to be of theatre, who arrived on the TU She championed faculty with tenure, blown regularly in an all-immersive campus just as the new MFA program promotion and merit evaluations, and sensory-filled experience for the in theatre was being launched. replaced and established new faculty actor. As chair of theatre and later lines and began excellence awards for “Loeschke was easily my biggest fan dean of the College of Fine Arts and part-time faculty. She also created a from early on and, as is often the case Communication, Loeschke bridged University Diversity Action Plan. with insecure talent, she recognized the demands of higher education As president of Mansfield University in me an ability and a great heart and the real world, Rockwell says. beginning in 2006, she was faced with that only now (at 45) I am learning “If I or someone proposed something tough economic realities—the state to appreciate and own,” he adds. that worked but didn’t quite fit the cut funding by 50 percent. Almost confines of the academic world, she immediately she put some low Herding cats would squeeze it through as long enrolled programs in moratorium Loeschke could not only nurture as it benefited students.” and eliminated the football team, budding actors, she could also manage She was also a strong advocate for a move, she says, that drew some to keep chaotic and creative faculty in faculty unless what they wanted was 7,000 emails to her inbox. line, a talent akin to herding cats. The at odds with student needs,” Rockwell John C. Cavanaugh, chancellor theatre faculty asked her to become adds. For example, “Loeschke’s idea of the Pennsylvania State System of

2000 ’95 ’96 ’97 ’00 ’01

Appointed acting dean of Appointed dean of the College the College of Fine Arts and Performs in It’s of Fine Arts and Communication Writes Lives Communications at TSU Only a Play at at Towson University in Art: Sixteen Performs in the Maryland Women Who Shirley Valentine Directs The Mirror Arts Festival Performs in The Cemetery Club Performs in Full Gallop Changed Theatre at the Maryland at the Baltimore at the Maryland Arts Festival at the Maryland Arts Festival in Baltimore Arts Festival Theatre Project Loeschke cheers with Towson students in the Higher Education, says her deci- stands of Unitas Stadium sions “were both courageous and when the Tiger football team faced Lehigh necessary. When people were upset, (and lost, just barely) though, she spent hours with them to in a post-season championship game. listen and talk things through. That’s how a strong leader handles tough decisions—listening and understanding, explaining the data and being University, agrees. “She is down to as she leads Towson into what she patient.” earth, practical and realistic. She calls “a vibrant future.” About a year later, she was open wasn’t trying to impress with grand She’s already looking into salary to a proposal to establish a Sprint ideas, but recognized that her leader- compression, faculty lines, faculty Football League—players can weigh ship style had to accommodate the load, development, and staff morale no more than 172 pounds and the Mansfield environment. At the after years of no raises and furloughs. program doesn’t impact gender equity. same time, she was a strong leader, She was in Annapolis during the Now Mansfield not only scores touch- and insisted on performance and legislative session and is out raising downs—something it hadn’t done for accountability throughout the friends in the continuing effort to some time—but has also won games Mansfield community.” raise money for Towson. and competed against, and beaten, the Always with an eye to student And Loeschke reports that planning likes of Princeton. needs, Loeschke established a resi- money for the renovation of Smith Her tenure at Mansfield was dence hall floor for commuter students Hall is in the budget this year and marked by more than wielding the to use if they needed to stay overnight construction on the pedestrian budget ax, however. She instituted or rest during the day. And she left walkway over Osler Drive will begin transparent budget planning, increased the light on at her campus house, an this summer. campus diversity, enrollment and invitation for students to stop by. Her inauguration is planned for fundraising, and strengthened campus Meyer says, “Students would Sept. 14, an event she describes as ties with the community. wander into her home, raid the freezer “a simple, elegant, respectful, joyous Her leadership style made it work. for ice cream, or just take from the event, with minimal costs that will “She has a way of connecting with just candy dish, say good-bye, and leave.” allow us all to celebrate Towson and a look, a way of making you feel that If Loeschke has a lament about her its future.” you’re the only person in the room, new job, it’s that the president’s house But in reality, Loeschke isn’t waiting even if you’re not, and genuinely cares is not on campus. “That is a real sad- for the fall to begin celebrating. about people,” says Cavanaugh. “She ness to me,” she says. “I like to have “There isn’t a day that I can’t wait is totally dedicated to students and times when students can drop by. And to get to work.” n ensures that their intellectual curiosity the house is just far enough away to Ginny Cook is the editor of Towson. is not only nurtured but stretched. She be difficult for me to make it to some of the campus events I may want to Find out 10 things you never knew pushes faculty to in turn push students about Towson’s new president. to new levels.” attend.” Visit www.towsonalumnimagazine.com. Ralph H. Meyer, president of the But that one shortcoming won’t mar Council of Trustees, Mansfield the passion or energy Loeschke emits

Compiled by Felicity Knox ’94, library associate ’02 ’06 ’12 to the Archives, for a display in Cook Library.

Becomes the Appointed president 13th president of Appointed provost of Mansfield University, Towson University at Wilkes University, Mansfield, Pa. spring 2012 towson 21 Wilkes-Barre, Pa. GuruTHE GYMNASTICS Dwight Normile ’78/’81 M.Ed. longtime editor of International Gymnast, is a leading authority on the sport

BY JAN LUCAS

It was the cartoon that launched a 30-year career. (Photos clockwise from top) Dwight Normile with Olympic coach Bela Karolyi, Normile hanging on the rings in 1977 as a member of Towson’s In 1982 Dwight Normile ‘78/’81 M.Ed. former Towson gymnastics team, and a recent portrait. (Opposite page) The magazine gymnast and head coach, mailed a simple line drawing to he edits. International Gymnast, a magazine he’d been reading since “It was magical, like a circus,” he recalls. “I was amazed high school. that gymnasts could do flips under their own power. I de- The editor liked it, adding that the magazine might be cided I wanted to be one too.” looking for a part-time paste-up artist. Normile, who was Normile honed his skills throughout high school, watch- having a hard time finding a commercial art job, continued ing—and occasionally practicing with—Towson’s Division to press his case with weekly contributions of illustrations, II team. With his sights set on the Olympics, he enrolled at photography and articles. Southern Connecticut State University and trained under a Then came the kind of break most aspiring magazine staff- former Olympic coach. But he stayed for only a year. “By ers only dream about. then,” he says, “I realized I’d never be an Olympian, and my “The publisher called,” Normile says. “He was going to parents couldn’t really afford the out-of-state tuition.” be on the East Coast and wanted to meet me.” His aspirations may have been diminished, but his love for It was enough to make a gymnast feel positively buoyant. the sport wasn’t. Normile transferred to Towson and com- Normile landed the job, which addressed all his interests: peted on the university’s varsity team, where he qualified for layout, writing, editing, illustrating, advertising and market- the Division II NCAA championships from 1976 to 1978. ing. With his background in the fine arts and his knowledge “We were a family,” he says of his former teammates. of the sport, it was a role that suited him perfectly. “Gymnastics was our lifeblood.” Looking back, it was hard to believe he’d been the boy Shortly before graduating he became head coach of the who had to be dragged to his sister’s (Candi Normile ’71) Towson men’s team, a position he held for four years. Dur- high-school gymnastics meets at Dulaney High School in ing his final season he took on the head coaching duties for Timonium, Md. the women’s program and completed a Master of Educa- “I was a typical fourth-grader,” he says of his childhood. “I tion degree. liked baseball and the things that interest most kids that age.” Joining International Gymnast’s staff the following year But gymnastics caught his eye. involved not only a dramatic career change, but also a move

22 towson spring 2012 to the magazine’s Santa Monica, Calif., headquarters. “I had As a freelancer for TBS, he assisted a young Hannah to pack up and leave my home town,” says Normile. “That Storm at the 1990 Goodwill Games in Seattle. He also was a part was very sad.” press liaison for the Los Angeles as well as the Seoul Olym- It turned out to be only the first of the moves Normile pic organizing committees. would make. When International Gymnast relocated to Last year he accepted a post as adjunct instructor at the San Diego four years later, he followed suit. In 1995 Paul University of Oklahoma’s Gaylord College of Journalism Ziert, former University of Oklahoma gymnastics coach, and and Mass Communication, where he oversees the magazine Bart Conner, Ziert’s protégé and a 1984 Olympic champion, practicum. bought the magazine. Normile, now married to former Normile’s assignments have taken him to every continent Dulaney teammate Pam Dawson, headed to Norman, Okla., except Africa and—not surprisingly—Antarctica. with their children, Hayley and Ian. Since 1982 he has interviewed nearly every Olympic As editor/art director, Normile ranks third on International champion and every Olympic coach, including Mary Lou Gymnast’s masthead, below Ziert, the publisher, Conner, the Retton, Olga Korbut and Bela Karolyi. As exciting as it is associate publisher, Glenn Sundby, publisher emeritus, and to meet the sport’s stars, he insists on maintaining a profes- ahead of contributing sional distance. “You can’t be a fan and remain objective,” editor Nadia Comaneci, he emphasizes. the Romanian-born “The lines have blurred between professional and amateur

SINCE 1982 NORMILE HAS INTERVIEWED NEARLY EVERY OLYMPIC CHAMPION AND EVERY OLYMPIC COACH, INCLUDING MARY LOU RETTON, OLGA KORBUT AND BELA KAROLYI.

Olympic champion (and journalists,” he adds. “Some bloggers are getting journalist Conner’s wife). The accreditation at major events, and I’m not entirely comfort- staff includes writers, able with that.” photographers and con- Like many other print publications, International Gymnast tributors, but Normile has adapted to the explosion of online information by trying shoulders the responsibility of producing 10 fat, full-color issues new things. “Our readers hold onto their magazines for years, per year for readers in more than 70 countries. so we’ve changed our editorial direction to non-time sensitive “Ten issues is a lot for a niche publication,” he says, noting material,” Normile says. “On the other hand, our website is that his workday begins at 7 a.m. and involves just about the place to go for live coverage and competition scores. every aspect of producing a magazine except printing it. But “Some of the stuff people post online is questionable or despite the demands of his job, Normile revels in the opportu- untrue,” he adds. “But readers can trust the information they nities it provides to stay involved with a sport he loves. find on our site.” “International Gymnast has been around since 1956; With the 2012 Olympics approaching, Normile is bringing it’s the premier publication of its kind,” he says. “We have his expertise to bear on the latest crop of potential medal- our finger on the pulse of the sport, and I like to think that ists. “As the world champion, Jordyn Wieber is the current we’ve maintained a high level of professionalism. We’ve It Girl,” he says, adding that we’ll see more of her in the definitely earned the respect of gymnasts, coaches and fans buildup to the summer games in London. around the world.” On the men’s side, Normile advises fans to keep an eye on Normile’s expertise has long been sought by a variety Japan’s Kohei Uchimura. of news organizations, including the Los Angeles Times, With his almost total immersion in gymnastics, does Houston Chronicle and National Public Radio. In addi- Normile ever find himself longing to leap onto a pommel tion, he served as a contributing writer for The Official horse or try a few spins on the parallel bars? “No,” he says NBC Olympic TV Viewer’s Guide, as a freelance reporter with a chuckle. “These days I stay active by playing church- for Sports Illustrated Olympic Daily, and an adviser to league softball.” n ESPN announcer Chris Marlowe during four successive NCAA Championships. Jan Lucas is an associate director in University Relations

spring 2012 towson 23 alumni events

Support Tiger Lacrosse Remembering Honor Elizabeth Wainio ’95

Visit the Alumni Hospitality Area from the before home games this spring

The hospitality area offers light fare and a cash bar before each home lacrosse game. We’ll be in the Auburn Pavilion behind the historic Auburn House on Auburn Drive for an hour and a half prior to game time. We close one half hour after the game begins so we can go into the alumni president stadium and cheer for the Tigers.

Dear Friends: It gives me particular pleasure Saturday, March 24 6 p.m.–8 p.m. to welcome back one of our most accomplished graduates, Maravene TU vs. Delaware Gametime, 7:30 p.m. Loeschke ‘69/’71, as our 13th president. She brings to the campus institutional Saturday, April 14 6 p.m.–8 p.m. knowledge, effective leadership skills TU vs. Penn State Gametime, 7:30 p.m. and a dedication to students, diversity issues and community outreach. Saturday, April 21 6 p.m.–8 p.m. I know she will have a profound impact on Towson’s future. Her TU vs. Drexel Gametime, 7:30 p.m. enthusiasm will continue the momentum that has made TU a powerhouse, deliver- ing a high quality and affordable college education, and a driving economic engine of our city, state and region. My tenure as president of the Alumni The Nominations, Please Association ends this spring, and before I hand the reigns to a great friend, Lance Suggest faculty, staff and alumni for the Volunteer Recognition Awards Johnson ’93, I want to thank several Tigers for their dedication and for The Towson University Alumni Association is Faculty and Staff Alumni Volunteer Service making my job so much fun. I salute Provost Marcia Welsh for seeking nominations for its annual Volunteer Award—honors one faculty and one staff her leadership as Towson’s interim Recognition Awards. Please take a minute to member who works diligently toward the president, Coach Rob Ambrose ‘93 alumni effort and provides exemplary service for an unbelievable season of Tiger nominate an outstanding alumna/us, faculty or to the university community in general. football, the great Tiger fans and the staff member. The Alumni Association Community development team for raising more than Relations and Outreach Committee will review $50 million during the Capital Campaign. University Alumni Volunteer Service the nominations at a summer meeting. A banquet And to Lori Armstrong and her staff, Award—recognizes a graduate who volunteers I extend my heartfelt appreciation for honoring our outstanding volunteers will be held time, talent or resources to the university and its making my job easy. Finally, I thank you, in the fall. The award descriptions follow: my fellow alumni who have made my community. time so enjoyable. The fun continues this spring. Meet Athletic Alumni Volunteer Service Award— me at Unitas Stadium for lacrosse and Spirit of the University Award—honors a TU honors a person who has worked diligently toward look for a special surprise at the new graduate or non-graduate who has directly in- entrance on Towsontown Boulevard. fluenced and touched Towson University alumni, the cultivation of alumni through athletic events, students and the university community. This is athletic programs, and/or the promotion and our most prestigious volunteer award. recognition of our athletic teams.

Lou Dollenger ’74 Alumni Association Volunteer Service To fill out the nomination form for these awards, please President Award—honors an Alumni Association board go to www.tutigertracks.com or please send the names Towson University Alumni Association member who provides special service to the of those you wish to nominate, along with the reason Alumni Association. why they deserve an award, to [email protected] or call 410-704-2234. 24 towson spring 2012 alumni events

Remembering Honor Elizabeth Wainio ’95

1 2 < Annual fundraiser commemorates the tragedy of 9/11 and Flight 93

Honor Elizabeth Wainio ’95 perished on Flight 93 in Shanks- ville, Pa., on Sept. 11, 2001. Ever since the tragedy, family and friends have gathered to celebrate her life and raise money for a scholarship in her name begun 3 4 10 years ago by her employer, Discovery Communications, her family and friends. On Oct. 22, 2011, recipients of the Honor Elizabeth Wainio Communications Scholarship, the Wainio family, Esther Heymann ’72, Ben Wainio, Sarah Wainio, and many others gathered at the Ropewalk Tavern Suggest faculty, staff and alumni for the Volunteer Recognition Awards in Federal Hill, raising more than $20,000 to enhance the endowment. To contribute to the scholarship fund, please use the enclosed envelope or visit 1 Lori Armstrong and Richard and Joanne ’78 Vatz 2 Mark and Beverly Schwartz, Kathleen Weiss and Ben Wainio www.towson.edu/supporttu. 3 Linda McFaul, Michele Baldwin ’95, Wendy Muher, Carrie Stricker and Evan Stricker 4 Grace ’10 and Brian Toeneboehn

alumni association scholarships

The Office of Alumni Relations is accepting applications for Alumni Association Scholarships. Applications must be received by May 1, 2012.

For more information, visit http://www.towson.edu/alumni/awards/index.asp.

spring 2012 towson 25 alumni events

Meet the President

1 2

The Hennemans host reception for TU President Maravene Loeschke ‘69/’71 >

On Thursday, January 19, Al ’66 and Suzie Henneman opened their home to more than 120 Towson University 3 4 donors and alumni so they could greet President Maravene Loeschke and welcome her home. The Hennemans were gracious hosts and the Alumni Association appreciates their hospitality and their commitment to Towson, which includes the use of 228 acres of their land in Baltimore 5 6 County as a Field Station. The Monkton, Md., property is used by students and faculty in the Fisher College of Science and Mathematics to conduct research. Visit http://www. towsonalumnimagazine.com/ towson/2010summer#pg16 to learn more about the Field Station and the studies.

1 President Loeschke ‘69/‘71, Donnice Brown ’91 2 President Loeschke ‘69/‘71, Sylvia Cohen ’98, Ann Amernick and Chuck Cohen 3 Kay Broadwater ‘77, President Loeschke ‘69/‘71 and Suzie Henneman 4 Kelly Krueger, President Loeschke ‘69/‘71 and Collin Wojciechowski 5 Keith Ewancio ‘94/’07, Patrick Dieguez ’07 and Audrey Schmidt 6 Pat Hargest ’80, Janet Kines ’80 and Sally Gold

26 towson spring 2012 alumni events

Welcome Football Friends

1 2 2

< Alumni Hospitality Area rocked last season

The Alumni Hospitality Area was hopping during the 2011 football season. Open before home games, the area was packed with celebrating fans who enjoyed free food, sodas, a cash bar and discounted game tickets. Then it was off to the stadium 3 4 to watch the Tigers play some stellar games during a super season that ended with Towson as the CAA champs. Thanks to all who visited us and supported Tiger football.

1 Lou Dollenger ’74, Nancy Baumgartner ’77 and Kevin Furnary ’78 2 Peyton Stickle, Kevin O’Shanick and Mike Stickle ‘94 3 Glenn Smith ’91 and Chris A’hern ’94 4 Tim Twiss ’88, Michael Preston ’87 and his children Allie and MJ

spring 2012 towson 27 alumni events

Top Volunteers

The 2011 Alumni Volunteer Recognition Reception >

On Friday, October 28, 2011, the Towson University Alumni Association honored their most outstanding volunteers at the Volunteer Recognition Reception Peter Schlehr ‘71 Karen Schafer ‘68 Jennifer Lindstrom ‘01 held in the West Village Athletic Alumni Volunteer University Alumni Volunteer Alumni Association Volunteer Complex. Recipients of the Service Award Service Award Service Award Alumni Association Scholarships and Grant program were also recognized as top achievers.

Al Henneman ‘66 Don Forester Gloria Gaguski Spirit of the University Award Faculty Alumni Volunteer Staff Alumni Volunteer Service Award Service Award

Scholarship and Grant Award recipients

28 towson spring 2012 alumni events

Tapping In

1 2

< Annual TAP lunch previews higher education issues

More than 120 alumni, faculty and staff learned what’s on tap in the state legislature this year and how it will affect Towson University and higher education. At a lunch in the Minnegan Room, President Maravene

3 4 Loeschke ‘69/’71 highlighted TU’s TAP (Towson Advocacy Program) and how it fosters communication with legislators. Then Gary Attman, University System of Maryland regent, David Nevins ’76, former chair of the Board of Regents, Barbara Hoffman ’60, principal at Artemis Group, and TAP chair Connie Kihm ’95 provided insight on 5 the inner workings in Annapolis as well as TU’s and the system’s legislative priorities.

1 Jennifer Gajewski, Jonathan Oleisky ’92 and Bobbie Laur ’04 2 Andre Cooper ’87 and President Loeschke ‘69/‘71 3 Front row: Jim Gangawere ’72, Jack Stark ‘94 and Dennis Caprio ‘80; Back row: Sharon Pitcher ’74 and Dan Crowley ’01 4 James Hunnicutt ‘95 and Bonnie Lingelbach ’89 5 David Nevins ’76, Gary Attman, Barbara Hoffman ’60, Maravene Loeschke ’69/’71 and Connie Kihm ’95

spring 2012 towson 29 alumni events

In the Capital

1 2

Annapolis-Area Alumni Reception >

The capital city of Maryland, home to the U.S. Naval Academy, has a history going back to 1696. In more recent times, Feb. 8, 2012 to be exact, TU President Maravene Loeschke was formally introduced to members of the Maryland General Assembly and 3 Annapolis-area alumni and friends.

4 1 Eric and Diana ’87 Steidl 2 Shannen Parker ’09 and Stephen Lawson 3 Ken Gent ’83, Steve Willett ’79 and Lou Dollenger ‘74 4 Delegate Dereck Davis, TU President Maravene Loeschke ‘69/’71 and Delegate Talmadge Branch

30 towson spring 2012 philanthropy matters

Number of degree programs offered at ONLY All About Numbers Towson University $5,496 18% for 2011-2012 TU undergrads who In-State Tuition we’d like to get your number— are first-generation 111 college students 23 Average GPA of TU 281,096 Cents of every student-athletes Community service the number related to towson that hours performed by dollar in Towson’s TU students last year means the most to you. 21,840 budget comes from TU students FALL 2010 ENROLLMENT the state of Maryland 3.10 who receive financial aid from the The number of volumes Named endowments in Albert S. Cook Library that provide student Maybe it’s your graduation year, the digit 17:1 scholarships, faculty % Student-to-faculty ratio 579,824 283 and program support 69 on your sports jersey, the number of your dorm or classroom. Perhaps it’s a count of your on-campus jobs or the date you earned associate vice president your degree. Whatever your Towson magic number may be, let us know. We’ll keep a tally so you can see the numbers of other alumni and how they connect to Towson.

Dear Friends, Numbers we like During my 11 years at Towson University, I have had the opportunity 1,116,633 Dollars contributed to the Towson Fund during the last six months of 2011 to meet thousands of students, alumni, parents and friends. Conversations 11,278 Individual donors to the Towson Fund during fiscal year 2011 with them have enabled me to learn the challenges many of our students 5,496 Cost of in-state tuition for 2011–2012 face as they pursue their degrees; the support students have received 283 Named endowments that provide student scholarships, faculty and program support from faculty, staff and donors; the successes they enjoy in their personal 111 Degree programs offered at TU and professional lives; and the ideals and values they support through their 69 Percentage of TU students who receive financial aid philanthropy. While challenges continue for 23 Cents out of every dollar in Towson’s budget that comes from the state of Maryland current students and those who will follow them, the generosity and 18 Percentage of TU undergrads who are first-generation students involvement of alumni and friends continues to play out in so many ways. 3.10 Average GPA of TU student-athletes If you haven’t been back to campus in a while, please visit. Attend a lecture, enjoy a performance or an art exhibit, 1 Alumni, parents or friends it takes to make a difference in the lives of our cheer for Towson at an athletic event students and faculty or just walk our beautiful campus. Bring your family and friends. If you are supporting one of the many programs, scholarships or projects on campus, we applaud you. If you haven’t taken that step, we invite Support the Annual Fund you to consider how you want to be your gift makes a difference involved. My colleagues and I look forward to hearing from you. Each year, financial support through the Towson Fund helps the university increase student scholarships, upgrade technology across campus, as well as offer outstanding artistic performances and athletic events. Contributions, of any size, truly make a difference in allowing Towson University to provide top-notch

Donna Mayer resources to support our students, faculty and the community. Associate Vice President Support the Towson Fund by visiting www.towson.edu/supportTU. Be sure to click on the matching gift for Development page to find out if you or your spouse works for a matching gift company; it is a great way to double or even triple your support for Towson.

spring 2012 towson 31 philanthropy matters

T. Rowe Price Partners With Towsonopoly College of Business and Economics Tournament high-tech trading floor coming next fall and Gala The College of Business and Economics has teamed up with the global investment firm T. Rowe Price to establish the T. Rowe Price Finance Laboratory. The state-of- the-art electronic finance lab allows students to research, value and price complex securities and investments in a simulated trading environment. The Finance Lab will give CBE students hands-on experience in a mock trading lab—all in real time. Students will use the lab to analyze

financial institutions, portfolios and Heather and Chuck Orlando market trends, and for coursework in financial modeling, equity analysis, On Saturday, November 5, more than fixed income analysis and risk 150 friends, alumni and supporters management. TU students will receive valuable gathered for the Second Annual Funded in part by a $250,000 grant experience from the lab which will help Towsonopoly Tournament and Gala from the T. Rowe Price Foundation, them when they go to work for finance in the West Village Commons. with additional support from current companies. “The finance lab will help Co-Chaired by Kenneth ’78 and and former T. Rowe Price employees, students better understand how the Renee ’79 Moreland and Robert alumni, faculty, staff, parents and financial markets work and will help ’93 and Pamela ’92 Sharps, the friends, the Finance Lab will provide position Towson graduates ahead of event raised more than $50,000 TU students with valuable experience their peers coming out of college,” for the new T. Rowe Price Finance and financial knowledge. As of notes Kenneth V. Moreland ’78, Laboratory. The evening featured Jan. 15, nearly $600,000 of the T. Rowe Price chief financial officer. dinner, a silent auction, casino $750,000 fundraising goal has The T. Rowe Price Finance games and the main attraction— been raised. Laboratory will be housed in the the Towsonopoly Tournament. “Providing hands-on educational College of Business and Economics, Charles Orlando ’82 proved to be experiences that help graduates on the first floor of Stephens Hall. the top tycoon and walked away prepare for the workforce is important Construction begins this spring and with bragging rights and 100,000 to the foundation, the community and is scheduled for completion in August, Marriott Rewards Points. to T. Rowe Price,” says Ann Allston just in time for the beginning of the Check out other photos of the event Boyce, president of the T. Rowe Price fall semester. at www.towson.edu/eventphotos. Foundation. To learn more about supporting the Finance Lab, contact Tracey Ford at [email protected] or call 410-704-3729.

32 towson spring 2012 philanthropy matters

Towsonopoly Estate Gift to Help Psychology Students Tournament the dr. edward and mrs. shirley neulander endowment and Gala Edward Neulander taught psychology at husband was born to teach. To this day his Towson for 33 years. The campus, faculty and students stop me on the street to tell me how students were an important part of his life much they loved him as a teacher.” and the life of his wife, Shirley. “This gift will benefit students in every To honor the memory of her husband and generation,” says Terry Cooney, dean, College the fondness they both had for the students of Liberal Arts. “Perhaps a first-generation and faculty at Towson, Mrs. Neulander student will be able to stay in college because planned an estate gift in 2000 that would of this gift; perhaps another student, with establish a scholarship endowment in her Shirley Neulander financial pressures eased, will devote name and that of her late husband. When sustained time to a research project. Still she died in August 2010, her generosity Shirley Neulander’s generosity others may commit themselves to internships ensured that her husband’s love of teaching ensured that her husband’s love or community service. and learning would live on at Towson and of teaching and learning would “Ed was a devoted teacher and Shirley touch the lives of future generations of a warm and energetic friend of the college. psychology students. live on at Towson and touch This gift continues those relationships and In a testimonial encouraging others to the lives of future generations keeps them participants in our enterprise of consider legacy gifts, she noted, “My of psychology students. education and aspiration.”

Introducing Founders GOLD new giving program targets recent alumni

Founders GOLD will be launched this spring extended to me an invitation to greatness. to encourage students and graduates of the Founders GOLD will be I knew many of these opportunities were last decade to participate in the Founders launched this spring to made possible by donations to the university Society, Towson’s annual leadership giving encourage students and and promised myself I would always pay it program. Founders GOLD offers recent forward. It is important that future Tigers graduates opportunities to get involved graduates of the last decade receive the same benefits that were available through networking and learning while to participate in the to me. Becoming a member of Founders giving back to their alma mater. Members Founders Society. GOLD has allowed me to extend an invitation receive exclusive benefits such as invitations to greatness and impact students’ lives— to university events with the opportunity Jenna Sieverts ’09 is a Founders GOLD it is an honor and privilege and I invite you to mingle with other alumni, students and member who believes in the importance of to join me.” university leadership, special season ticket giving back to the university at any level. “As

rates for athletic events, a 20 percent discount a student I was the Homecoming Committee For more information on Founders GOLD at the University Store and much more. chair, a member of the Council of Student visit www.towson.edu/supportTU, email Leaders, LeaderShape and the SGA. Towson [email protected] or call 1-866-301-3375.

spring 2012 towson 33 philanthropy matters

Put Your Name Here renovated locker rooms provide the combination for naming rights

During the school year, athletes spend leave a lasting legacy for current student- more time in their team’s locker room than athletes to which they can aspire,” says Pat anywhere else. When Mike Waddell, director Mead, swim coach. of athletics, arrived on campus and saw Renovations have also been completed outdated facilities, he identified locker room to the men’s and women’s lacrosse locker upgrades as a priority for the Tigers. rooms in the Field House. “With the help of During the summer of 2011, the men’s and our outstanding lacrosse alumni and friends women’s swimming and diving locker rooms of the program, we now have a first class received a face-lift. The upgrades included locker room facility,” says Shawn Nadelen, The locker naming campaign installation of top-of-the-line lockers, state- men’s lacrosse coach. “Our new locker room provides former Tigers with the of-the-art floor drainage and lock boxes for allows our players to have a comfortable area opportunity to have a nameplate swimmers to secure their valuables during to prepare for practices and games as well as practice and competitions. spend time together and bond as a team.” displayed on a locker. Once the new locker rooms were When the renovations to the locker rooms completed, the Tiger Club launched a naming were completed, the campaign to name campaign to help support the program. lockers began. Many former lacrosse players The locker naming campaign provides have come forward to sponsor lockers and former Tigers with the opportunity to have show their commitment to Tiger lacrosse. In For more information on the locker campaign or a nameplate displayed on a locker. “This the future, the cross country/track and field, to find out how you can support Tiger Athletics by campaign gives our alumni the chance to field hockey and football locker rooms are sponsoring a locker, visit www.TheTigerClub.net scheduled for upgrades. or call 1-877-9-TOWSON.

Calling All Alumni phonathon makes connections while raising funds

The annual phonathon has become a great We hope you have the opportunity to she has talked to many TU alumni during way for alumni, parents and friends to speak to one of our phonathon callers this the past three years. “My favorite part about connect with and get to know some of our spring. They enjoy the direct contact with phonathon is the people,” Forster says. outstanding students. Phonathon callers alumni, parents and friends and keep you “I have met some of the best people at represent TU’s many programs, departments, up-to-date on campus news and events. Towson University.” colleges and diverse student organizations. Phonathon callers will also be glad to update In addition to being a full-time student and Our dedicated phonathon callers help raise your information and to provide you with busy phonathon caller, Forster also finds time much-needed funds that support scholarships, a convenient way to support TU. for rock climbing, yoga and sky diving. academic and athletic programs, student Meet phonathon The Towson University Phonathon runs activities and university initiatives. caller Olka Forster, through the spring semester. Make your Last fall, our 33 phonathon callers logged a sociology and gift through a phonathon caller, visit more than 285 hours talking to more than anthropology major www.towson.edu/supportTU or call 7,000 alumni, parents and friends. That is and member of the 1-866-301-3375. Your gift will enhance the equivalent of talking for more than class of 2013. A opportunities for Towson students, now 11 days straight! phonathon worker and in the future. since fall 2009, Olka Forster

34 towson spring 2012 class notes class notes

In Memoriam Gerald J. Smith ’60 James P. O’Connor ’42 Mary Reindollar Schomann ’41 October 4, 2011 November 12, 2011 January 13, 2012 Alumni Deborah P. Souders ’94 William F. Susie ’92 Dorothy A. Schultz ’37 October 4, 20111 November 16, 2011 January 16, 2012 Julia R. Greason Shriver ’45 July 12, 2010 Isadore H. Miller ’36 Alan Griffith Shaw ’93 Kenneth H. Masters ’65 October 6, 2011 November 19, 2011 January 17, 2012 David Early Patterson ’01 September 10, 2010 Mary E. Harmeyer Crisco ’57 Jonathan Lee Bruce ’10 Raeanne Boone Martin ’57 October 7, 2011 November 21, 2011 January 19, 2012 Manuel L. Carvalho ’77 January 23, 2011 Louise C. Lochary ’77 William Charles Hancock ’86 Maria C. Esteves ’81 October 8, 2011 December 2, 2011 January 22, 2012 Allen H. Bryant ’57 April 16, 2011 Lee L. Smith ’52 Michael Joseph McAvoy ’83 Shirley Chaney Johnson ’68 October 14, 2011 December 2, 2011 January 24, 2012 Edith Garland Elliot ’62 May 1, 2011 Cora Heiple Teter ’89 Dorothy A. Farmer ’34 Janet G. Albright ’81 October 15, 2011 December 3, 2011 Lillian M. Gruel ’62 January 26, 2012 May 1, 2011 Harriet L. Cohn ’77 Ruth E. Knox ’34 Mary-Ann Williams Starita ’75 October 16, 2011 December 3, 2011 Kathleen M. Young Siuta ’64 January 30, 2012 June 11, 2011 Kathleen M. Kerns Hein ’58 Gloria R. Chester ’74 Margaret Allen Schwanebeck ’31 October 16, 2011 December 9, 2011 Hilda Becker ’45 February 2, 2012 July 12, 2011 Charlotte Burns Hosier ’48 Leo A. Schleicher ’74 October 19, 2011 December 13, 2011 Faculty & Staff G. J. Ross ’07 August 13, 2011 Daniele Austerlitz ’39 Margaret Eaton Lafferty ’79 Gloria A. Holland October 20, 2011 December 15, 2011 September 18, 2011 Holly A. Nillets Rader ’65 September 1, 2011 Nancy A. Flanigan ’68 Holly E. Upperco ’73 James A. Bell October 22, 2011 December 15, 2011 November 11, 2011 Charles A. Buckman ’56 September 9, 2011 Michael W. Phoebus ’73 Michael J. Allen ’01 Jeremiah J. German October 24, 2011 December 19, 2011 November 21, 2011 Alice E. Davis ’77 September 11, 2011 Imogene Bane Johnston ’81 Mary Jane Knipp Shank ’64 David J. Cohen October 26, 2011 December 19, 2011 December 2, 2011 Laurel M. Macgregor Dvorak ’73 September 11, 2011 Mary I. Deutsch ’72 Phyllis W. Sawyer ’43 Marian Louise Pace October 28, 2011 December 26, 2011 January 1, 2012 James Francis Hubbard ’52 September 12, 2011 Phillip Andrew Pollard ’90 Mabel S. Braune ’70 Marilyn L. Dannenfelser December 28, 2011 January 7, 2012 Robert R. Zimmerman ’73 October 29, 2011 September 15, 2011 Louise Coffman Roleau ’47 Raymond A. Benson ’69 December 29, 2011 Penny J. Lantz ’80 November 1, 2011 open meeting notification September 16, 2011 Betty Bremker Roberts ’59 Mary E. Wellham ’43 December 29, 2011 Steven James Linthicum ’87 November 4, 2011 Sharon Coale Morningstar ’67 September 18, 2011 Richard M. Kavalsky ’70 Alumni Association December 31, 2011 Loraine P. Bernstein ’75 November 5, 2011 Meeting September 20, 2011 Robert G. Younger ’66 Grafton M. Eliason ’50 January 1, 2012 Catherine C. Palm Harmon ’71 November 5, 2011 Tuesday, September 20, 2011 Jean A. Reardon Scarborough ’65 Julia Focas Krometis ’45 April 24, 2012 November 7, 2011 January 1, 2012 Anna Dayett Varela ’36 6 p.m. September 21, 2011 Alnetia K. Ewing ’33 Nancy Crist Llewelyn ’52 January 2, 2012 Barr K. Harris ’38 November 11, 2011 Administration Building September 29, 2011 Jacqueline Ringer McCosh ’68 Louise Webster Arnold ’37 Room 424 November 11, 2011 January 11, 2012

spring 2012 towson 35 class notes class notes

Before 1960s 1970s Arnold Eppel ’78 BUAD has been named the executive director of the Edward A. Myerberg Wilda Stroh Streat ’52 published The Darryl K. Myers ’72 HIST was promoted to Center in northwest Baltimore City, which pro- Tale of Willet, a story about a sandpiper—the district manager—Appalachian District of the U.S. vides more than 125 programs for senior citizens. mascot of Showell Elementary School in Worcester Postal Service. He married Elizabeth Cockey this A former director of the Baltimore County Depart- County, Md. She opened the school as principal in year and also has a new granddaughter. ment of Aging, Eppel is a member of the Johns 1976, staying until her retirement in 1992. Each Hopkins University Certificate on Aging Advisory Christopher T. Harrison ’74 published an graduate of the school will receive a copy of the Board and the Johns Hopkins Bayview Mental autobiography, From Championship Wrestler book. Streat has six daughters, 20 grandchildren Health Advisory Council, and is treasurer of the to Road Rage Defendant, which includes two and five great grandchildren. Maryland Gerontological Association. chapters detailing his undergraduate years as Patsy Skirven Reihl ‘55 and Mona a student and wrestler at Towson. The book is Evans Coberly ‘55 placed two donated bricks available from I Universe Publishing Company side-by-side at Auburn House, a gift symbolizing in Indianapolis, Ind. 1980s 60 years of friendship that began when they were Mary Faith Gardiner-Ferretto ’80 SOC Dennis Lee Crehan ’76, a minister at Jarvis- roommates at what was then the State Teachers launched a geriatric care management business burg Church of Christ in North Carolina, went on College. The women also taught together for two in January 2008. A team of social workers and a mission trip to Central India Christian Mission in years in Montgomery County, Md. Reihl lives in nurses provide eldercare coaching and assess- India in 2011 where he hosted a seminar. Rock Hall, Md, and Coberly lives in Elkton, Fla. ments for seniors and their families or caregivers. Steve Murfin ’77, executive director of FHSC Janet Flora-Anderson ‘81, a former TU and baseball coach at Blake High School in Silver basketball player who averaged 22 points a game 1960s Spring, Md., hosted 24 high school baseball Patsy Skirven Reihl ‘55 when she played for the Tigers, was inducted into players from Japan last summer through Sports and Mona Evans Helen Shaffer Smith ’65 was honored by the hall of fame at Loch Raven High School in the Delaware Valley Chapter of the Alzheimer’s United. Area businesses donated equipment and Coberly ‘55 place bricks Baltimore County. Association with the 2011 Pride Award for work supplies to the Japanese players because they lost at the Auburn House, with Alzheimer’s patients and as a care giver for everything after the tsunami hit the country last a gift symbolizing their Home Instead Senior Care. March. Murfin also hosted a high school baseball team from Iraq in 2010. 60 years of friendship that began when they were Towson roommates. Send Us Your News What’s new? Your friends from college want to know. Please send news about your personal and professional life to Class Notes, Alumni Relations, Towson University, 8000 York Rd., Towson, MD 21252-0001 or email [email protected]. Because of production schedules, your news may not appear in the magazine you receive immediately after submitting an item. Name______Class Year______Major______Name at Graduation______Address______City______State______ZIP Code______

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36 towson spring 2012 class notes class notes

Katherina Cox ’81 is employed by Taylor Technologies, the Sparks, Md.-based manufacturer of water testing supplies. Cox completed the requirements to become an ASQ-certified Quality Auditor, a professional recognition which indicates she has achieved a high level of proficiency in Head of the Class quality-auditing practices. Josh Parker ’04 Michael Preston ’81 CCMM, a former TU football player and now sportswriter at The Sun, Maryland’s 2012 Teacher was honored as the Maryland Sportswriter of the of the Year didn’t want to Year by the National Sportscasters and Sports- writers Association. be a teacher.

John J. Lombardi ‘83, ordained a Catholic priest in 1988, self-published his first book on Born and raised by educators in Seeking change—and extra CD, Finding Life’s Balance: Reaching the ‘Radi- Prince George’s County, Joshua income—Parker began substitute cal Middle’ Between Extremes. Lombardi has Parker ‘04 steered himself away from teaching at Loch Raven Middle School. served in Baltimore, Randallstown, Cumberland a path of teaching. “I never wanted to And something clicked. “It was the and Frostburg, and from 2002 to 2009, follow the family business,” he says. “I ability to make connections with he was chaplain at the Grotto of Lourdes, in wanted to establish my individuality.” students that pulled me in.” Emmitsburg, Md. He is now administrator at He did so at Towson University, When he was offered a full-time St. Peter Catholic Church in Hancock and where he studied sports communica- teaching position in Baltimore County, Katherina Cox ’81 St. Patrick in Little Orleans. tion and English, and devoted himself Parker knew his life would never be is an ASQ-certified Douglas Adams ’84 GEOG is a senior to numerous student organizations the same. “It was a landmark day,” Quality Auditor at and extracurricular activities. he says solemnly. Then he laughs and project manager for Dewberry in Baltimore. Taylor Technologies He will focus on local and state government needs Parker was president of the says, “And the first year was a disaster. in geographic information systems. Adams has Black Student Union, a writer for I had no student teaching, no experi- in Sparks, Md. more than 25 years experience in the geospatial the Towerlight, a sports anchor for ence constructing a lesson. I was fresh industry. WMJF-TV, a representative for the off the boat.” University of Maryland Student He persevered and, over the course Sheldon Bair ’84 MUSC will speak at the Council, and even a two-time of six years, worked his way up the Malcolm Arnold Festival in Northampton, UK, in intramural basketball champion. school system. Now chair of the the fall. This year’s festival will include perfor- “My ability to interact, inspire English Department at Windsor Mill mances of all nine symphonies of Arnold, whose’s and persuade—all skills I use in Middle School, his responsibilities are most famous work—music for the movie Bridge teaching—came from my experience equal parts education and administra- on the River Kwai—won an Oscar. at Towson University,” says Parker. tion. It’s a job that fits Parker, whose Of course, his best memory was goal is “to be in a position to influ- Anthony Brown ’84/’95 M.S., president of being introduced to his future wife, ence as many students as possible.” The Dream 4 It foundation, which raises funds to an experience Parker calls “meeting Last fall, he was honored with the provide youth with scholarships for higher educa- his future.” 2012 Maryland Teacher of the Year tion, hosted the fourth annual benefit concert at But after graduation, he worked as Award, an experience he describes as the Gordon Center for Performing Arts in Owings a sports producer for Fox 45 and soon “stunning, humbling and rewarding.” Mills, Md., and awarded more than $3,500 in realized he wasn’t happy. “It was the Parker lives in Randallstown, scholarships to four recipients. same story every day. We just changed Md. with his wife, Tiffany, and their out the numbers,” Parker explains. “I children, Laila and Josh. When he isn’t Annette Robrecht Gill ’85 BUAD writes didn’t feel I was contributing to society in the classroom, he directs Work and that her daughter, Kelsey, is attending Towson, in a way that would improve it.” Achieve, an all-boys literacy mentor- was accepted into the nursing program and joined ship group. the same sorority as her mother.

Wendy Chernak Hefter ’85 BUAD —Emily Koch celebrated her 30th year of self-employment in the office services industry. She and her husband, David, also announce the accomplishments of their four children—Amy ’12, graduated cum spring 2012 towson 37 class notes class notes

laude from TU in January and received the Ro and Marius P. Johnson Award and Art Department Photography Award; Stephanie ’11 works at Cold Play the TU International Student & Scholar Office; Rebecca is active in high school volleyball and theater, and Daniel is president of his dorm at Susan Brown ’95, College Park. Melanie Gormley ’09, Tom Judd ’96, Rhonda Pierce-Brooks ’86 MCOM, vice president of human resources for the National Krystle Ongaco ’05 Center on Institutions and Alternatives, an agency and Adam Weaver dedicated to improving the lives of individuals take the Polar Bear with intellectual disabilities, received a master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University and earned Plunge two professional certifications. You might say some folks who work “It was a fun and amazing experi- Mark Buren ‘88 BUAD is director of AloStar in TU’s Event and Conference Services ence I will never forget,” adds Ongaco. Business Credit in Baltimore. He will focus on Adam Scott Zarren ’99 really like to chill out. Each of the folks from Event and the lending needs of small- and medium-sized became a partner Susan Brown ’95, Melanie Conference Services teamed up with businesses in the Mid-Atlantic. He is a former Gormley ’09, Tom Judd ’96, Krystle a “chicken”—someone from their at the law firm of vice president at Wells Fargo Capital Finance and Ongaco ’05 and Adam Weaver jumped department who would stay warm and Saul Ewing in has more than 20 years of business development into the frigid waters of the Chesa- dry, but would also help raise the $50 experience. Baltimore. peake Bay on Jan. 28. They joined an minimum to participate in the event. Ann Scholl-Fiedler ’88 MA became first estimated 14,500 other crazies for Their boss, Jim McTygue, offered vice president for career services at Stevenson the 16th Annual Polar Bear Plunge at a free lunch to the team that raised University in February. She was recently director Sandy Point State Park, an event that the most money. of the Career Services Center at the University of raises money and awareness for the The prize went to Judd and Beth Maryland, Baltimore County and has extensive Special Olympics of Maryland. Walsh, who raised $1,340. But experience in career development in colleges It was the first time this TU group, McTygue was so impressed with across the country. dressed in bathing suits and cold gear, the fundraising efforts of his hit the beach in winter to brave the workers—they donated $3,800 to icy currents. Temperatures in the Special Olympics of Maryland—that 1990s 50s and bright sunshine made for he sprang for lunch for all five teams. “a beautiful sunny day … for a “The Polar Bear Plunge was a fun Katy Bosserman ’90/’95 M.Ed., a retired wonderful cause,” Brown says. opportunity to bond with my co-work- special educator with 20 years of teaching And any second thoughts about ers while raising money for a great experience, has been advocating for students getting wet quickly disappeared. “As I cause,” says Weaver, who adds this tip. with disabilities in Maryland public schools since was approaching the water I thought “Don’t try to prepare for the plunge 2008. She assists families in navigating their way to myself, ‘I’m crazy but this is awe- by taking a freezing cold shower the through the special education process via her some,’” Gormley recalls. morning of … it doesn’t help.” business, Creative Learning Experiences. The excitement of the crowd was “Would I do it again?” ponders Matthew Gagnon ’91 was hired as director infectious. “Once I got down to the Judd. “I’ll let you know when I get the of risk management and internal controls beach, my adrenalin took over and I feeling back in my toes.” assurance of ClearView Consulting in Baltimore. was excited to get in the water with everyone else,” says Judd. “I thought John Lingenfelter ’91 was appointed vice I would be racing out of the water to —Tom Judd ’96 president of finance by the Harry and Jeanette dry off; instead I went back in for a Weinberg Foundation in Owings Mills, Md. second dip!”

Vasilisa C. Hamilton ‘92 M.S. is the new director of public information for the University of South Carolina College of Education. The author of two books, she also blogs. Visit www.papadidntpreach.com.

38 towson spring 2012 class notes class notes

Caesar Rossilli ’92 CCMM joined Redmer Jason F. Grove ’04, a manager in the audit, 2000s Insurance Group as a personal lines manager, accounting and consulting department at Ellin & where he oversees the sale of auto, home, Patrick Herbert ‘95/‘00 HLTH earned a Tucker, Chartered, has been named treasurer of umbrella, recreational vehicle and boat insurance Ph.D. in health behavior from Indiana University the Dyslexia Tutoring Program, which teaches low- policies. Bloomington. He is an assistant professor in income children and adults with dyslexia to read. the Department of Health Science at Towson Grove is also a member of Ellin & Tucker’s Techni- Britta Vander Linden ‘96 THEA joined the University. cal Standards Committee and is a member of the communications team for Westchester County American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Executive Rob Astorino. Dionne N. Curbeam ‘00 MCOM, director and the Maryland Association of Certified Public of instructional technology at Coppin State Accountants. Jeffrey M. Lawson ’98, a shareholder University, has been awarded the 2011 of Stoy, Malone & Company, P.C., has been Blackboard Catalyst Award for Outstanding Julie Stull ’07 EMF and her husband, Ben, appointed to the University of Baltimore Staff Development. have been living in Hawaii for two years. She Accounting Advisory Board. Lawson resides in is now a successful working artist, painting on Hampstead, Md., with his wife, Carla, and son, Jennifer Joy Fox ’00 is a photographer and canvas and selling in galleries. Evan, born May 7, 2010. photography teacher at Elkton High School in Elkton, Md. She was the featured artist in the Tessa Walker ’07 PSYC received a master’s Ben Schmitt ’98 was named Howard County “Portraits, Still-Lifes and Landscapes” exhibit in degree in human services administration from the Liz Milligan ’10 joined Art Teacher of the Year for 2011 by the Howard the Cecil County Arts Council show in February. University of Baltimore. She is president of CH the tax department County Public School System and Maryland Art Consulting, her own firm, which assists clients in Education Association. He has also been accepted Frank and Kathleen Maiorana ’00 navigating the Social Security Disability process. at Gross, Mendelsohn twice (in 2009 and 2011) to take part in the celebrated the birth of their daughter, Walker is also a guest writer for About.com, and & Associates, an summer programs of the National Endowment Delaney Elizabeth, on June 14, 2011. was a guest host of “The Coffee Klatch,” a radio accounting firm for the Humanities. show that provides resources and educational Heide C. Hostelley ’01 BUAD works at in Baltimore. information for special needs families. Jason Contino ’99 announced that the Archbishop Spalding High School and lives in feature film he produced,Lebanon, Pa., Severn, Md. Nick Wieroniey ’07 joined Gross, Mendelsohn was featured on the Showtime television network. & Associates, P.A., as a senior accountant on the Yi M. Shrestha ’02 BUAD, a senior staff firm’s audit and accounting team. Glenn Dorris ’99 CCMM is the administra- accountant with Stoy, Malone & Company, earned tive and operations director of Baltimore Reads. a master’s in taxation from the University of Lauren Gallagher Brady ‘08 BUAD Most recently, he was director of sales and admin- Baltimore. Shrestha joined the firm’s tax and audit graduated from Goldey-Beacom College in fall istration for America Works of Maryland. staff in January 2002. She lives in Nottingham, 2011 with an MBA in marketing management. She Md. works for Comcast Spotlight in New Castle, Del. Adam Scott Zarren ’99 PSYC became a partner at Saul Ewing in the law firm’s Business Drew Heflin ’03 BFA made his Broadway Diane K. Cagle ’08 ENGL completed eight and Finance Department and Corporate Group in debut with the cast of Spider-Man Turn Off The weeks of basic training at the U.S. Navy’s Recruit Baltimore. Zarren was also named a Baltimore Dark. He is also assistant dance captain and has Training Command in Great Lakes, Ill. “Legal Elite” by SmartCEO Magazine in 2011. many other stage credits. He and his wife Karo- lina, also a dancer, reside in New York City. Amanda Karfakis ’99 BUAD, president and CEO of Vitamin, a boutique design-web- public relations firm, announced its selection by Central Scholarship for a rebranding initiative that will set the foundation for the organizations’ 90th anniversary in 2014.

Sonia Shen Sanchez ’99.’03 M.S. was promoted to assistant director, human resources information systems in the Office of Human Resources at Loyola University Maryland in November 2011. Sonia has been married to David Sanchez ’01 since 2002.

spring 2012 towson 39 class notes class notes

Danielle Sutphen ’08 MCOM is an advertising media coordinator for Media Works Ltd., a full-service media communication company.

Kathleen Ager ‘09 EDEC, a first-grade teacher at Magnolia Elementary School in Prince Batter Up George’s County, Md., was recognized for her teaching excellence during American Education Andy Markopoulos ’83 Week. Ager is also the chair of the first-grade level and part of the technology team. Fish n’ chips restaurant Britany Barr ’09 ART is an interactive is a family affair designer for Planit of Baltimore.

Katie Waddell ’09 and Scott Vassalotti ’09 were married on October 8, 2011, in Darnestown, Maryland. Fish n’ chips have run in the Mar- By 1984, his father sold the busi- kopoulos family for three generations. ness and retired. Andy, with a business Rebecca Golloub ’10 is taking time Now Andy Markopoulos ’83 fol- degree in hand, went on to build off from working full-time to work in an lows in his father’s and grandfather’s a successful career in banking and orphanage in Nicaragua. She is working with footsteps with Original Fish n’ Chips, finance. Outreach360, a nonprofit organization which a restaurant that has thrived in the “I love the financial industry, but I provides opportunities to orphaned, abandoned Middle River, Md., area for six years. had a yearning to pick up where my and disadvantaged children. “We have a unique concept and family left off,” Markopoulos explains. want people to experience authentic “I wanted to go back and rebuild the Liz Milligan ’10 joined the tax department at fish and chips,” Markopoulos says. restaurant, which was once really Gross, Mendelsohn & Associates, P.A. and is also (The fish and potatoes are served up popular here.” working on her master’s degree. English-style—coated in batter and Now his plans include franchising deep fried.) “Many of our customers the operation. “We want it to be how Katie Keane ’11 MCOM is an advertising are regulars who know where to come it is in England, where there’s a fish media coordinator for Media Works Ltd., a full- for great food,” he adds. and chips restaurant on every corner,” service media communication company. Markopoulos is no stranger to the he says. Mandy Arnold ‘01/’11 M.S., who launched restaurant business or to fish n’ chips. Still a family-owned, family-run res- a new company, Gavin Advertising, an advertis- His grandfather, a Greek immigrant, taurant, his children, Nicole, a graphic ing, marketing and public relations agency opened his first restaurant, Tony’s Fish designer, and Andrew, soon to be a devoted to truth in branding and driving action, Lunch, in Erie, Pa., after coming to Towson business student, help out was named in the Central Penn Business America in 1920. The restaurant was at Original Fish n’ Chips, just as their Journal’s “Forty under 40” in 2011. She was later passed down to Andy’s father, father did for his father. also recognized as a “Woman of Influence” who bought and sold numerous res- Will either follow their father, by Susquehanna Style Magazine in taurants, eventually moving to Mary- grandfather and great grandfather in December 2011. land and owning an Arthur Treacher’s the restaurant business? Markopoulos Fish and Chips franchise in Towson. says he’s not sure, but knows that Kara Fulginiti ’11 will represent the state Markopoulos and his brother were after 92 years the Markopoulos family of Rhode Island for the festivities surrounding fixtures in the chain as teenagers, still serves up the best fish n’ chips in the 100th anniversary celebration of the National helping the business grow. the area. Cherry Blossom Festival from April 7-14, 2012 in Washington, D.C. —Hannah Kaufman

40 towson spring 2012 www. EXTRAS

Ten Things You Never Knew About Maravene Loeschke

In grade school/ as a kid, I wanted My first acting performance was to be everything. enchanting because I discovered 1 2 how much I love performing. My worst summer job 3was selling dog licenses. I don’t have real fears but I do not like bugs or snakes. 4 The hobby I gave up was singing.

5 The book by my bedside is Hemingway’s Boat: The word that best describes Everything He Loved in Life, and Lost, 1934-1961, 6 my golf game is terrible. 7 by Paul Hendrickson. I own an autographed picture 8 of Marcel Marceau. I always read The Chronicle of I am never 9 Higher Education. 10 without my iPhone.

spring 2012 towson 41 Theater to illustrate the intersection Bridges of mathematics and dramatic works. Nancy Grasmick ’61 Towson 2012 For the past eight years, Abbott has named Presidential been collaborating with a colleague in CONNECTING MATHEMATICS, MUSIC, the theater department on an evolv- Scholar ART, ARCHITECTURE AND CULTURE ing course, “Mathematics and Science STATE LEADER IN EDUCATION WILL as Art in Contemporary Theater.” He ADVANCE TEACHER PREPARATION AT TU writes about happenings in theater and mathematics, especially in Math Horizons where he is coeditor with fellow 2011 Bridges attendee Bruce Torrence. For the 2010 - 2011 academic year, Abbott is on sabbati- cal in Cambridge, England, studying the intersections between theater and mathematics. The international annual conference The Bridges Conference, the largest of Bridges: Mathematical Connections mathematics and art interdisciplinary in Art, Music, and Science was created conference in the world, will be held at in 1998 and is conducted annually. It Nancy S. Grasmick ’61, former Towson University July 25 -29. TU last has provided a remarkable model of superintendent of Maryland State hosted the Bridges Conference in 2002 how seemingly unrelated and even Schools, has been named a Towson and since then it has traveled to cities antipodal disciplines, such as math- University Presidential Scholar for in North America and Europe, includ- ematics and art, can be crossed. Innovation in Teacher and Leader ing Spain, Canada, Hungary and the During the conference, mathematicians, Education. Netherlands, and attracted participants scientists, artists, educators, musicians, “I am honored to join the talented from more than 30 countries. writers, computer scientists, sculptures, individuals on this campus who have The 2012 conference will feature dancers, weavers and model build- dedicated their efforts to making the papers, hands-on workshops, invited ers have come together in a lively and education of our teachers and leaders talks, an art exhibition, a math/art highly charged atmosphere of mutual a priority,” says Grasmick. short movie festival, a theatre night, exchange and encouragement. Impor- “Education has been my life’s work a music night, a mathematical poetry tant components of this conference and I am delighted to continue to reading, a math/art excursion and a series, apart from formal presentations, pursue goals that will enable all of our family day. are gallery displays of visual art, work- students to meet the demands of the A mime-matics night features Tim ing sessions with practitioners and art- 21st century.” and Tanya Chartier, both of whom ists who are crossing mathematics-arts Grasmick is charged with transform- have trained at Le Centre du Silence boundaries, and musical or theatrical ing the university’s teacher preparation mime school, the Dell’Arte School of events. A lasting record of each Bridges and early career support program into International Physical Theater and Conference is its Proceedings—a a national model, one that will produce with the world-renowned mime artist resource book of papers and visual effective educators with the knowledge Marcel Marceau. presentations of the meeting. Tim Chartier,a professor of math- and commitment to prepare students for success in a challenging industry. ematics at Davidson College in North For more information including schedules Carolina, was recognized with a and registration, and to watch an introduc- To accomplish this, Grasmick will: national teaching award from the tory video, visit http://bridgesmathart.org/ Mathematical Association of America bridges-2012. • Lead a team of teacher and leader for communicating about math both in educators from the university and the classroom and through mime to the region to develop and implement the broader community. university’s national leadership in pre- Steve Abbott, a professor of paring teachers for the 21st century; mathematics at Middlebury College, • Engage Towson’s teacher educa- is organizing a night of Experimental tion faculty to reflect that vision in the strategic redesign of current teacher education programs;

42 towson spring 2012 • Organize and convene a series of She received her doctorate from consecutive national championships, public forums involving national Johns Hopkins University, her master’s a feat unmatched by any other team. academic and policy leaders in educa- degree from Gallaudet University and Dance legend Judith Jamison tion to examine such emerging topics her bachelor’s degree from Towson received an Honorary Degree of as curriculum, academic assessment, University. Humane Letters in recognition of her performance evaluation, organizational outstanding contributions to dance. and economic issues, charter schools, See the video of Grasmick’s appointment Most known for her work with the and non-traditional preparation at http://youtu.be/DmcHLnVimnc Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, programs; Jamison was principal dancer and later became artistic director. • Work with the private sector to Her accomplishments include putting extend cutting-edge professional Towson University’s the company on solid fiscal footing development opportunities for teachers th and taking it to new artistic heights. and leaders that align with the national 147 Commencement Under her leadership, the dance troupe education agenda; DANCE LEGEND JUDITH JAMISON traveled the world, performing in RECEIVED AN HONORARY DEGREE OF Johannesburg, South Africa and St. • Maintain a critical feedback loop HUMANE LETTERS; THEATRE PROFESSOR Petersburg, Russia. They also danced with educators, parents, students and TOM CASCELLA HONORED WITH the community to ensure fidelity of the DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD at the inauguration festivities for initiative and translate research practice President Clinton, and at the White to achieve best possible program ef- House state dinner for Kenyon fectiveness; President Mwai Kibaki. The College of Business and Eco- • Publish findings from these activities nomics, the College of Education and in an edited volume, Teacher Prepara- the College of Health Professions held tion for the 21st Century. their commencements at 10 a.m., followed by the College of Fine Arts and “Today is one of Towson University’s Communication, the College of Liberal finest hours, as a national icon of excel- Arts and The Jess and Mildred Fisher lence in education is coming home to College of Science and Mathematics her alma mater to guide and implement at 2 p.m. a powerful vision for preparing teach- The College of Graduate Studies ers and education leaders,” says TU and Research participated in both President Maravene Loeschke ’69/’71. ceremonies. “Dr. Grasmick’s work will tie Read what Towson’s graduation together all three of the university’s speakers had to say to their fellow top priorities: innovation in teacher classmates, parents and friends. education; STEM education for teacher preparation and for the workforce; and leadership development for students, Last winter, Towson University held faculty and staff.” its 147th Commencement, awarding Grasmick began her career in educa- 1,193 baccalaureate degrees, 346 tion as a teacher of deaf children at the master’s degrees and certificates, and William S. Baer School in Baltimore. three doctoral degrees. The event was She later served as a classroom and held Jan. 8 at the Towson Center. resource teacher, then principal, President Maravene Loeschke’69/’71 supervisor, assistant superintendent, and honored Tom Cascella, professor of associate superintendent in the Balti- Theater Arts with the 2012 President’s Erin A. Crisp more County Public Schools system. Award for Distinguished Service to the In 1989, then-Governor William University. His contributions during When I joined the Towson community Donald Schaefer appointed her Special his 35-year tenure include developing 18 months ago as a graduate assistant Secretary for Children, Youth and courses, nurturing students and achiev- and student in the Educational Families, and in 1991 the State Board ing success in technical theatre. Perhaps Technology program, I certainly did of Education appointed her State Su- he is best known for coaching TU’s not picture myself on this side of the perintendent of Schools. Dance Team, which brought home 13 podium on graduation day, so thank you for this honor.

spring 2012 towson 43 A couple of years ago I was eat- taught, would it change your level of motivated, they are sharing a ing dinner with my family and a few motivation or engagement? Hold that story about a student who produced friends. I was a middle school language thought. a fantastic project, or a pre-service arts teacher at the time, and I had been A year and a half ago, I started teacher who taught an incredible sharing with my friends about some working for the College of Education lesson. When a classroom or Black- of the difficulties I was having while as a graduate assistant. I was helping board discussion shows depth of teaching some very reluctant learners. faculty members integrate technology thought and engagement from all of My friend Paul looked across the din- into their instruction and practice new us as students, it affects them. They ner table with a look of confusion. Paul technology skills. I overheard many of are motivated to continue to learn and is from Kenya. At that time he had only their conversations and meetings, and overcome difficulties when we are dili- been in the U.S. for two months. Paul I had the opportunity to get to know gent and committed to our professions. was confused because in his village, some of them in a capacity that is Vice versa, we are motivated and school is a privilege. Students pay for normally not possible in an instructor/ encouraged to continue when they are uniforms, books and school fees and student relationship. It was through energized and excited about trying many children cannot attend school at these outside-of-the-classroom interac- something new or engaging us as learn- all. He was confused by the lack of ef- tions that I learned something that will ers in a new way. And we all know fort and motivation I was experiencing change my future. that we couldn’t possibly succeed in with my eighth-grade students. Why I learned that we are all much more our professions without their excellent wouldn’t they bring a pencil or paper inter-connected than we probably real- leadership and scholarship. We are to class if it was in their locker? Were ize. My friend Paul is right. because they are. they ill, or maybe someone was stealing These professors who are experts Not only have we affected them and their supplies? in their fields of study and whom we they have affected us—past tense—but After some explanation about some all admire for the commitment and we all continue to affect one another possible reasons for their lack of dedication to our learning, they at in the future as well. We will stay con- motivation, he shook his head sadly times struggle to learn new things. nected. How? Let me illustrate briefly. and stated, “They do not understand These instructors who are prepared for I have been hired as an instruc- that ‘I am because we are, and we are every class, who provide their students tional designer at Stevenson University because I am.’” He went on to explain with engaging learning opportunities, and have started work there already. Desmond Tutu’s teachings about our and who diligently plan rich learning Incidentally, I was very well prepared inter-dependence and connected- experiences for their course partici- for my new position by my Towson ness. “When I succeed, it doesn’t just pants, they are at times overwhelmed coursework. Let’s just imagine, hypo- affect me, it affects my whole village and frustrated by reports and due dates thetically, what happens if about three and community. When I make a poor imposed upon them by their adminis- months into my work at Stevenson, I choice, it is not just me who is affected, trators. And administrators are under decide that it would be really easy to sit but my entire village and tribe,” he almost constant pressure from institu- back, relax and do as little as possible shared. His village gave up eating meals tional, governmental and accreditation to maintain my position. Right now, to raise money to send him to the U.S. agency mandates. what is my identity at Stevenson? I’m for his education. I learned that these faculty members, that new instructional designer who Many of us have made sacrifices to staff members and administrators that I just got her degree from Towson. complete our higher education experi- grew to know and befriend in my time Contrast that with another designer, ences, but few of us can say that our here are passionate about their content, hired along with me who graduated entire tribe (family, friends, spouses, and they are committed to helping all from another institution. Her identity grandparents, neighbors) gave up meals of us succeed with excellence. is “graduate of other institution” until to allow us an opportunity to study. And, they are also human. They get she proves differently. What if she Imagine for a moment, that your discouraged, overwhelmed and frus- decides to not only do what is required, success, the reason you are sitting in trated at times just like you and I. Do but to also provide innovative ideas for that seat today is only because of great you know what makes them continue improving efficiency? What if she stays sacrifice on the part of not just one or to strive for excellence in education, involved in local professional organi- two or a handful of people, but that the why they stay? It’s not prestige or posi- zations and continues to learn more only reason you experience success is tion or power, and it’s not the pay. It’s about our profession? Then, let’s say it because of the efforts of a large group us. comes time to hire a new instructional of people who believe in you. If that You and I and the hundreds who will designer. In the minds of our employer, large group were cheering you on con- come after us. They are because we are. which institution has a more positive stantly, reminding you of all you were When I hear faculty most excited and reputation? If they have candidates

44 towson spring 2012 from both “other” and Towson, But—whoever said that uncertainty doesn’t the new Towson grad walk into was a bad thing? In fact, as I look back the room with some sort of disadvan- on my experiences thus far, I can only tage, however subtle and subconscious? conclude that uncertainty is good. What I do, or fail to do right now, in When I first entered college, I was my new career, impacts the futures of uncertain about what degree I wanted others. to pursue—yes, I too was initially one So very tangibly, our actions after of the many faceless “undecided” fresh- today will continue to affect the groups man. This uncertainly led me to take a of students who will sit in these seats in Caitlin Connor wide variety of classes—acting, music, the future. foreign language, and yes, a history Graduates, we are here today to We are all connected because we course. celebrate our accomplishments. Over now share this common thread, our Now I stand before you today, the past four years here at Towson Uni- Towson education. Faculty, staff and a historian through-and-through, versity, we have learned so much. Some administrators, your actions affect our completely in love with my field and lessons we learned the hard way. For futures. Fellow graduates, your success certain that it is my true passion in life. example, after spending hours at the helps all of us and those who come So the way I see it, we can view our library finishing a paper due the next after us. In this big web of life and uncertainty one of two ways: We can morning and then promptly closing the learning, we are all connected. be scared of uncertainty and fear our window without saving, I very quickly Remember I asked you to hold futures, or we can view our uncertainty learned to triple save my work in three a thought? The thought was the as an opportunity, and decide that our strategic locations whenever working picture of a large group of people future is going to be an adventure. at the library. who contribute to your success. When Sure, uncertainly can cause anxiety, Luckily, during my first semester of you have some time tonight, after all stagnation and frustration, but only college, I also soon learned that going of the graduation festivities are over, if you let it. If viewed with optimism, out every Thursday night before your close your eyes and imagine that large uncertainty can push us out of our Friday 8 a.m., believe it or not, can group of people. Imagine the faces of comfort zones, leading to new ideas, actually adversely affect your grades. every professor who worked diligently innovation and personal growth. And, one that I personally just to teach you something, every mentor So the question, fellow graduates, learned a few weeks ago when I ac- teacher who coached you, and every that faces us today is which road you crued almost $800 in fines, do not mess classmate who encouraged you, tutored will choose to take in your years after around with TU parking services. They you or helped with a group project. Towson. Are you here today celebrat- will find you, and they will make you Include your family and friends, cur- ing the last day of the best years of bankrupt. rent employers and co-workers, and your life? Or are you celebrating the Yes, as graduates, we have certainly this is your tribe. They are connected to fact that the best years of your life are accomplished a tremendous amount. you and you are connected to them. So still yet to come? That decision is up The burning question now, however, as you make decisions daily, remem- to you. Congratulations graduates. is “What next?” ber that your tribe sacrifices for you, Thank you. While some of us have our future and that every action you take has the plans already set in stone, others, potential to impact the tribe. including myself, stand here today Administrators, faculty and staff, we with considerable uncertainty about need you to remember the tremendous what the “real world” has in store impact of your actions, not just on cur- for us. Those of us with slightly more rent groups of learners, but on us who impractical majors might also stand are leaving here today as well. Thank here today aware that the road toward you for your dedication to scholarship actually making money while doing and learning. what you love is going to be long and And fellow graduates, when we are hard. I don’t know about you, fellow tempted to underperform in our profes- Joan Wilhelm graduates, but at times thinking about sions or to show poor moral character, life after college makes me want to dig Two months ago I was in the middle I, for one, hope to remember that “I my fingernails into the closest dining of my busiest semester yet—taking my am because we are.” Thank you for hall and refuse to let go of what they last two classes for my degree; finishing being a part of my tribe and congratu- call “the best four years of our lives.” up a four-month project at work; train- lations to you all!

spring 2012 towson 45 ing for a half-marathon; and gearing up tion to take your knowledge and career Congratulations graduates and for the holiday season. To be honest, to the next level. thank you. I wasn’t even sure I was going to attend I want to close by telling you about this ceremony because the last thing my race last month. I consider myself a I needed was another entry on my reluctant runner. I only recently picked to-do list. it up and I wished I liked it more. I Then I was asked to consider giving know it’s good for me and at times a speech. Preparing this speech forced it can be fun, but I find myself doing me to take a step back from my hectic whatever I can to distract myself while semester and reflect on my time at running. I was at mile five and decided Towson, to realize that graduation is it was a good time to mentally work the final step of a significant accom- on this speech, when I passed a sign plishment that shouldn’t be taken for that has stuck with me these past few Emily Casey granted. weeks. Spectators were lining the race My name is Emily Casey, and today If you haven’t done so already, course almost the entire way, standing I will be graduating from Towson Uni- mentally review your journey at along the road for hours, yelling words versity’s nursing program. Wow—I’ve Towson and the classes, assignments, of encouragement to the racers. My been waiting approximately 730 days professors, friends and choices that favorite spectators were holding signs to be able to say those words. have brought you to this auditorium like, “If this was easy, everyone would When I first received the invitation to this afternoon. Today, do not be do it!” or “Your feet hurt because give this speech today, I was enduring humble, but be proud in your you’re kicking so much butt.” The what was arguably the most difficult achievement of this goal. sign that spoke to me said, “Pain is week of the semester. For my nursing In choosing to study Computer temporary, but pride is forever.” And colleagues, you may know the week Information Systems in undergrad at with school on my mind, I realized I’m talking about; there were back-to- the College of Notre Dame, I knew how much a college degree is like a back exams, numerous projects coming that I would be in and out of school long race. It’s not a sprint; you don’t to a completion, and our exit exam. for the rest of my life. A few years after get a degree with two or three classes. Therefore, you can imagine that my ini- graduation, I made the decision to get You take many, starting off basic and tial reaction was something resembling my Master’s degree. I chose Towson getting progressively harder as you a mild state of panic. But of course, I for its great reputation, its convenient build year to year. Your homework and eventually regained my composure, and location, and the Applied Information projects are your training. You may I could not be more honored to stand Technology program itself. I was ex- hit a wall in the middle of the degree before you today. cited to go to a large university. Notre and feel like you want to turn back or Having a background in education, Dame was a great fit for me as an un- stop altogether, but you forge ahead I believe in the power of teaching as a dergrad, but coming from there, where in the direction of the finish line. Each way to promote health. That philoso- my graduating class had less than 200 milestone is welcomed. And you refuel phy, combined with my interest in the people in it, I felt a bit of a culture at steady intervals with parties and sciences, led me to the decision to re- shock on Towson’s campus. I loved my summer breaks. turn to school for nursing. For those of time at Towson and I’m so thankful for “Pain is temporary, but pride is you who know nursing, and for those the experience. forever.” Please don’t think I’m saying of you who know education, perhaps The atmosphere of graduate school that college is painful, but I am call- you know that the two professions go feels different from undergrad—you ing out the fact that it isn’t always a hand in hand. That is why my decision can tell that everyone is in the next smooth ride. As you think back over to pursue a second bachelor’s degree in stage of their lives. The program caters your college journey, in addition to the nursing came naturally after my several to working adults—most of the classes fun memories, you may remember the years of teaching. Well, somewhere in are offered on campus and online, and pain of the tough times: the late nights there might have been a few years of you can fit two in one evening. The spent with immense reading assign- traveling, skiing and working at a cof- professors can relate to work and other ments or projects and papers that you fee shop. commitments and they understand didn’t think you would finish. You I was living in Whitefish, Montana at when life gets in the way. I can honestly pushed through and look where you the time, with my husband and young say that I had knowledgeable and fair are now. I wish I had a medal for each baby, and had recently experienced teachers for every class I took. Getting of you! Any pain from the journey was some major life changes, including, a master’s degree from Towson is more temporary. Your pride in your degree unfortunately, losing a sister to a tragic than a sheet of paper—it is the prepara- will be forever. act of domestic violence in 2007. This

46 towson spring 2012 event played a large role in propelling Graduates, all of you here have me towards nursing; I truly believe that a unique story, yet still share that her death has driven me to want to try common thread with the peers that to improve life for others. surround you today. You have learned My young family relocated back to together, studied together, worked Baltimore to be closer to the rest of on group projects together, laughed my nuclear family after this difficult together and I’m sure maybe even cried event, and it was here that I began the together. And now, today, you get to nursing program just three months walk across that stage together—what after having my second child. Saying an amazing accomplishment. that going back to school was more Thank you. challenging the second time around is an understatement. However, I found myself more engaged and committed to my education than ever before. The program here was exciting, challenging and rigorous. Throughout my time here at Towson, I found that I was often up to 10 years older than many of my colleagues. But it didn’t matter. We were all united by our commitment to the profession and by our resolve to complete the program successfully so we could be one step closer to becoming registered nurses. Yes, despite our differences, we were unified by that common thread, even though at times we felt like we were only hanging on by a thread. I would not be here today if not for the support of many people in my life. I’m sure many of you graduating today feel the same way. I would like to sincerely thank all of my professors and my adviser for your guidance, encouragement, and most of all, for your dedication to nursing education. To my friends and colleagues here at Towson University—we have finally made it, and I will always remember the relationships I have made with you. To my family and friends, especially my parents, sister, brother and husband Mike, for your unwavering support. You all should be equally as proud of yourselves for putting up with me the last two years as I am of myself for my achievements. And to my two sons, Calvin and Oliver, I am happy to report that you now have your mom back. Finally, I know that although my sister Jessica isn’t here to witness this wonderful moment, she is smiling down on me right now.

spring 2012 towson 47 Scholarship support has helped me focus on becoming a better educator.

Aaron is one of the beneficiaries “of the philanthropy of former faculty member Ann L. Wagner who left a charitable bequest to establish the Ann L. Wagner Scholarship in Mathematics.

For more information on how you can have this kind of impact, please contact: ” Donna Mayer Associate Vice President for Development [email protected] Toll-free: 1-866-301-3375 www.towson.edu/giftplanning

Read more about Aaron and other scholarship recipients at www.towson.edu/foundationscholars.

Aaron Chotikul, Class of 2012 Mathematics major Recipient of the 2012 Ann L. Wagner Scholarship in Mathematics

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the alumni association invites you to the Ward and West Reunion June 2, 2012 • 2–4 p.m.

Ward and West front lawn Tickets: $30*

ssssssssss If you lived in Ward or West halls, or just want to visit before renovations convert these buildings into the Health Center and the Counseling Center, then come join us. All Towson alumni are welcome to participate.

RSVP by May 21 at http://tinyurl.com/7wdk5rk

Rooms are available at the Towson University Marriott Conference Hotel under TU Ward and West Reunion. Reservations must be made by May 11.

*Ticket price includes lunch and $10 scholarship donation

For more information: call 410-704-2234 or email [email protected] Visit Ward/West on Facebook