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WINTER 2012

TheTheARTSARTS &&MOREMORE New minor in fine arts introduces students, community to credit and non-credit classes ... Pages 18-19

Special Section: Touching those in need one Charism at a time… Pages A1-A8 M395x_Layout 1 2/13/12 3:40 PM Page 3

University earns Princeton Review designation CAMPUS VIEWS Misericordia University has been recognized as one of John and Ann Passan the top colleges and universities in the receive TA Award northeastern United States, according to the nationally known The Misericordia University Board of education services company, The Trustees honored the philanthropy of John J. Princeton Review. and Ann Passan by naming them the MU is one of 220 institutions of recipients of the 2011 Trustee Associates higher education that has been Award at the annual Trustee Associates recommended in the Best in the Dinner in Sandy and Marlene Insalaco Hall. The award is given annually to friends of Northeast section of the website Carol Keup of the Passan Foundation accepts the the University who have demonstrated feature, 2012 Best Colleges: TA Award on behalf of Mr. John J. and Mrs. Ann Region by Region, that’s posted outstanding dedication, service and Passan. Posing for a picture after the presentation, on PrincetonReview.com. The generous support to Misericordia University. from left, are Tina MacDowell, President Michael A. profile described Misericordia’s “Mr. Passan understands that quality medical MacDowell, Ms. Keup, Robert J. Soper, Vice Chair academic programs as “very care is very much dependent upon health of the Board of Trustees; and Judith Ellis. challenging’’ and “the coursework care professionals in the fields of nursing, is rigorous,’’ so “it all adds up physical therapy, occupational therapy and said Glen Tellis, Ph.D., professor and chair of in the end’’ to a highly speech-language pathology,’’ said Michael A. the Department of Speech-Language marketable degree. MacDowell, president. “His willingness to Pathology. “The impact of this generous support that belief through his financial contribution is acknowledged and U.S. News ranks MU commitment to Misericordia and its students appreciated each time our clients receive will make a big difference in the quality of life services in our clinic as they have access to among the very best in our region for years to come.’’ state-of-the-art facilities that are not available Mr. and Mrs. Passan are loyal, ardent anywhere else in the region.’’ Misericordia University ranks in supporters of the health sciences and higher Leadership in health education is a the top tier, 52 out of 183 education overall. In August, Misericordia Misericordia tradition. Starting with the colleges and universities, in the dedicated the building that houses the region’s first nursing program in 1944, the Best Regional Universities – North College of Health Sciences on Lake Street as University’s curriculum has grown to include category of U.S. News and World John J. Passan Hall in honor of the Passan medical imaging, physician assistant, nuclear Report’s 2012 edition of Best Foundation’s generous support of the medicine, occupational therapy, physical Colleges, which includes University and medical science education. therapy, sonography and speech-language institutions of higher education in “The gift from the Passan Foundation is pathology. The increased enrollment capacity the northern United States that just the kind of philanthropy that allows us to provided by these programs will help to offer master’s degrees. continue to provide cutting-edge services to address the shortage of health care MU’s 52nd ranking is up 15 our clients with communication disorders,’’ professionals in the region and nationwide. places from 2007 and its overall score of 48 is four points better than the 2011 report. In the latest rankings, MU is included in a tight 37,000-square-foot building, located across grouping of 18 colleges and On-campus housing the parking lot from the Anderson Sports and universities that are separated by Health Center, called for the top two floors to four points for the rankings of 39 needs change scope house 90 college students in suite-style through 52, respectively. residence space. The lower level would be of building project divided among two classrooms and a Hildebrandt Learning Systems-managed day Tradition of service Due to the demand for on-campus care center to accommodate 112 children. gets national acclaim housing, Misericordia University sought Combined with the University’s growing and received approval from Dallas Township Misericordia University is ranked enrollment and the desire of students to live for change orders in the design, construction among the top 28 percent of all on campus, the University changed the scope and use for the new building that is master’s degree-granting of the $6.2 million project. By eliminating the being built near the North Gate of the institutions of higher education in day care facility, the new building will upper campus. the country by Washington become a 118-bed, suite-style residence hall Misericordia’s initial plan for the new Monthly magazine in a survey that featuring the same amenities, such as stresses community service and kitchens, living rooms, bathrooms and social mobility of students. appliances. Each floor also contains a study MU is ranked 158th overall lounge and laundry facilities. The first floor among the 553 colleges and will now contain three academic classrooms. universities in the nation that were MU also is constructing a $4.1 million field recognized in the 2011 Master’s house located by Mangelsdorf Field and Universities category. Washington Tambur Field, the new baseball diamond. Monthly ranks MU 20th in the nation for student participation Misericordia University is constructing a new in service. residence hall, pictured in this artist’s rendering, near the North Gate of the upper campus. M395x_Layout 1 2/13/12 3:40 PM Page 4

Volume XIV, Number 1 ‘12Winter

categories A-1 12

Campus community helps Alumnus spends lifetime flood victims rebuild lives. preserving history. 10 23

Alumni help bring low-cost Cougar Pride shines during PT clinic to Passan Hall. Homecoming festivities.

Misericordia Today Jim Roberts, Director, Marketing Communications, [email protected] Paul Krzywicki, Editor, [email protected] ON THE COVER Contributing Writers: Scott Crispell, Jim Roberts, Marianne Tucker Puhalla and Julia Truax ‘12 Misericordia University Artist-In-Residence, Skip Sensbach, M.F.A., seated at left, Class Notes: Lailani Augustine, [email protected] poses with fellow artists Georgiana Cray Contributing Photographers: Scott Crispell, Paul Krzywicki, Earl & Sedor Bart, M.F.A., center, adjunct faculty of Photographic, Charlotte Bartizek, Jack Kelly and Virginia Conrad fine arts; and Babetta Wenner, M.S., assistant professor of fine arts and Art Studios coordinator, as Misericordia Misericordia Today is published twice a year by Misericordia University. students practice throwing clay on The magazine is distributed free of charge to alumni, parents, and friends the pottery wheels. of the University. To request a subscription, call (570) 674-3341. Postmaster: send address changes to Alumni Office, Misericordia University, Dallas, PA 18612-1090. © Misericordia University 2012

Share your story ideas by contacting Misericordia Today at [email protected] M395x_Layout 1 2/21/12 2:55 PM Page 5 IN MEMORIAM

Alan J. Finlay Ronald David Ertley 1934 - 2012 1932 - 2012

Misericordia lost a trusted friend and stalwart supporter Ronald David Ertley, 79, founding owner, creator and CEO with the death of Alan J. Finlay, who passed away Jan. 27, of Ertley Motorworld, Plains Township, Pa.; founder of Tech 2012 at the age of 77. Aviation at the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport, A member of the Board of Trustees from 1999 to 2009, Avoca, Pa.; president of Ertley Dealerships, LLC, and a former Misericordia was fortunate to have the Dallas, Pa., resident as Misericordia Trustee died Jan. 7, 2012. a valued member of its leadership team. He was a dedicated Mr. Ertley of Dallas, Pa., was known in the auto industry for and involved volunteer whose knowledge of construction and establishing the first mall-like shopping experience and for real estate was significantly helpful to the institution during a serving on many national automobile boards. period of unsurpassed growth. His passion for automobiles, though, took a backseat to his “Alan Finlay’s advice, support and commitment as a family, friends and community. Together, Mr. Ertley and his Trustee were unsurpassed,” says University President Michael wife, Carole (Sis) Schalm Ertley, raised four children, Kristine A. MacDowell. “He was always there when called upon. His Ertley McCarthy, Traci Ertley, Kimberly Ertley DeGooyer and ability to see what was really important to the University and David Ertley, and had four grandchildren. to keep us on track was invaluable. He helped us apply the Mr. Ertley also served his community in many ways. He excellent and humanitarian business practices that made his was on the board of the F.M. Kirby Center in Wilkes-Barre, company work well to Misericordia.’’ Pa., and was president of the Wilkes-Barre YMCA. Mr. Ertley In recognition of his support, Mr. Finlay, and his wife, was also a Trustee at MU from 1984 to 1996 and 1997 to Evelyn, were presented the 2009 Trustee Associates Award. 2006. He served on committees, such as the Marketing and An immigrant from Northern Ireland, Mr. Finlay, Evelyn, and Development, College Definition, and Building and their three children relocated to the Wyoming Valley after the Grounds committees, and also chaired the Science Agnes Flood of 1972. His first business venture was the Building Capital Campaign. development of the Provincial Tower complex in Wilkes-Barre. “Ron’s steadfast interest in the University was inspirational,’’ As the founder of Humford Equities, Mr. Finlay oversaw the says Michael A. MacDowell, University president. “His property management company’s growth that included positive and optimistic outlook to all that we undertook in our development and management of a variety of commercial efforts to grow Misericordia and expand its reach to students and residential properties. Although retired, he remained was very helpful. His can-do approach to life did not let active with his son, Robert, who is the current president. impediments get in the way of progress. Mr. Ertley could Mr. Finlay secured John Humes’ wife, Patricia, and party always be relied upon to help, and he did so in many ways.’’ leader David Trimble, the first minister of Northern Ireland, as In the automobile business, Mr. Ertley had few peers. With Misericordia commencement speakers in 2000 and 2002. The the help of his friend, J. David Power, founder of JD Power two were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their efforts in and Associates, Ertley Motorworld opened in 1991 and crafting a peaceful solution to the conflict in Northern Ireland. featured 12 dealerships. His interest in automobiles began at Mr. Finlay was most recently called upon by MU to help a young age when he worked in his father’s garage, Ertley’s assess the feasibility and construction needs when the Super Service, pumping gas in the 1940s. Mr. Ertley later University purchased the former Frontier Communications worked in the original Ertley Oldsmobile dealership, where he Building for use as the new College of Health Sciences. He served as sales manager, general manager and president. recently stated that over the past 10 years he and Evelyn had Mr. Ertley also served his country, attaining the rank of seen Misericordia become the best and best-known university captain in the U.S. Air Force after graduating from Duke in the region and were humbled to have been a part of University with a Bachelor of Science degree in business the process. administration. Upon his honorable discharge from the armed Mr. Finlay is survived by Evelyn; their children, Maureen services, he returned to the area to manage the dealership Matia, Wendy Casey and Robert; and six grandchildren. with his father, David Ertley.

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Benefactor establishes the PROFILES IN GIVING Dr. Midori Yamanouchi Lecture Series

Paul II,’’ on Tuesday, April 17, at 7 p.m. cross-cultural marketing and in Lemmond Theater in Walsh Hall. American-Japanese business relations. “Bernstein’s appearance is certainly “It is exciting to expose students to fitting for the Dr. Midori Yamanouchi accomplished people so students realize Lecture Series inaugural event. Dr. they are living in a larger world,” says Dr. Yamanouchi understands the need to Yamanouchi. “I’m delighted to work with expose young minds to great thinkers Dr. MacDowell on this project. By the Dr. Midori Yamanouchi, at right, poses for a and Bernstein’s lecture will provide time a Misericordia student graduates, I picture with President and Mrs. Tina MacDowell a thought-provoking educational hope this lecture series helps each one to at the 2011 Trustee Associates Dinner. experience for our students,” know they can succeed and that they can eeting and interacting with a said Michael A. MacDowell, interact with the type of person they famous or highly accomplished University president. aspire to be.” Mperson can inspire people to work The Bernstein visit and future lectures Bernstein and Bob Woodward harder than they thought they could to in the series would not be possible investigated the Watergate scandal for emulate that leader’s contributions to without the generosity of Dr. Yamanouchi. The Washington Post for which they and society. Learning to succeed and reaching A friend of Misericordia for many years, the newspaper were awarded the Pulitzer further intellectually are integral parts of she also has contributed significantly to Prize in the 1970s. Since then, Bernstein the Misericordia experience. the Ruth Matthews Bourger Women with has continued to build on the “abuse Thanks to the support of Midori Children Program. of power” theme, in books, magazine Yamanouchi, Ph.D., Misericordia Dr. Yamanouchi is an accomplished articles, commentary, television University has established a new lecture teacher, author and community leader. reporting and as editor of an series to bring world-class experts to A professor emeritus at the University of award-winning website. campus for in depth interaction with Scranton, she taught for 30 years in the He and Bernstein wrote two classic students, faculty, staff and the community. Department of Sociology and Criminal best sellers: All the President’s Men and The inaugural Dr. Midori Yamanouchi Justice. She also served as vice president The Final Days, that outlined the end of Lecture Series will feature famed of academic affairs at Lackawanna the Nixon presidency. journalist and author Carl Bernstein for College. Dr. Yamanouchi is a nationally the presentation, “His Holiness, John recognized expert in consumer and — By James Roberts Love of learning: Lifelong teacher makes largest alumni bequest in school history

elene C. Kretchik ’43 was a beloved Helene’s love of Misericordia became her alumna who loved her college. legacy with a bequest of $400,000, the HThroughout her life, she was quick to largest alumni bequest in University Helene C. share stories about her experiences as an history. The gift will establish The Helene Kretchik education major and gave high praise to C. Kretchik Scholarship Fund. Income from the Sisters of Mercy who sponsored and the fund will be used to award annual High School. She taught at Exeter and founded the college, and especially those scholarships to deserving students who Wyoming Area High Schools. In addition who prepared her for a career in demonstrate good moral beliefs. “Helene to her bachelor’s degree from education. In the classroom, Helene was had an infectious personality — lively, Misericordia, she earned a master’s in recognized as a great teacher who inviting and affable — and she loved to behavioral science from Bucknell espoused academic excellence, offering talk about the Sisters of Mercy who were University. She was a long-time member instruction that was caring and strict, traits such an important part of her life,” said of the Misericordia Alumni Association she learned from the Misericordia faculty. Michael A. MacDowell, president. and frequently volunteered for the Upon her death in October 2011, just The youngest of seven children, Helene American Red Cross. “Helene gave two months shy of her 90th birthday, was a 1939 graduate of West Wyoming generously to Misericordia throughout her life, and chose to make an enduring impact by supporting the University in her Established in 1994, the Heart of Mercy Society recognizes will,” said Barbara Merdiushev, director of those benefactors who have included Misericordia in their Major Gifts and Planned Giving. “Her estate planning. To notify us if you have a planned gift, or generosity will enrich the lives of students to learn more about becoming a member and including for years to come. A grateful college will the University in your long-term financial and estate plans, miss her.” please contact Barbara Merdiushev at (570) 674-6167 or [email protected]. — By Marianne Tucker Puhalla

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CAMPUS VIEWS

SLP graduate student and senior advisor to the governor for Health science majors learn receives national scholarship Pennsylvania Homeland Security. about future of health care The campus community participated in Nicholas A. Barone ‘11, who was Students a special Mass in the University Chapel awarded his master’s degree in majoring in the on Sept. 11. Afterward students walked in speech-language pathology at Winter health sciences a special candlelight procession to the Commencement, was awarded one of 12 learned about campus Peace Pole in front of Sandy and prestigious national scholarships by the the future of Marlene Insalaco Hall, where a American Speech-Language-Hearing health care from candlelight vigil and special prayer (ASH) Foundation at the annual Founders Nathan S. service were held. Breakfast in San Diego, Calif. Kaufman, Nathan S. Kaufman More than 100 master’s and doctoral managing level students applied for the director of Kaufman Strategic Advisors, scholarships made available by the ASH LLC, during his special student-focused Foundation’s 2011 Graduate Student presentation on campus. Scholarship Competition. Other award Kaufman also presented Getting Your recipients included collegians from Organization in Shape for the 2016 Florida State University, University of Health Care Games: The Future of North Carolina and many others. Access, Costs and Integration to 150 professionals as part of the Misericordia State grant to support University Annual Health Care Lecture Symposium. energy-efficient upgrades Students, from left, Ryan Hassick ‘13, Kyle Misericordia was awarded one of 13 Slavetskas ‘12, Jeff Salvatore ‘12, Lisa clean energy grants totaling $3.7 million Witkowski ‘12, Shannon Kowalski ‘12 Shakespeare Garden receives from the Pennsylvania Energy participate in the candlelight vigil on Sept. 11. Horticultural Society award Development Authority (PEDA). The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society The University will use the $273,841 Student’s photo graces cover presented a Community Greening Award grant to install energy-efficient lighting at of PNA’s 2012 calendar to Misericordia University in recognition the Anderson Sports and Health Center The Pennsylvania Newspaper of the Sister Regina Kelly Memorial and in the Hafey- McCormick Science Association (PNA) chose a photo by Garden outside Sandy and Marlene Building, reducing lighting energy use in communications major Mary Bove ‘15 Insalaco Hall. The award is based on the buildings by 39 percent. The funds as the feature photograph on the cover plant variety, design, use of space and will also be used to replace the steam of its 2012 calendar. horticultural practices. boiler in the Banks Student Life Center, PNA’s state-wide competition gives The garden features plants that are yielding an estimated 33-percent student journalists at two- and four-year mentioned in Shakespeare’s works and is energy savings. institutions an opportunity to showcase a setting for student rest and restoration their work across the state. Bove chose of the spirit. The garden has been Campus community marks a horizontal image of the picturesque adopted by the Back Mountain Bloomers as a community project. Members of the 10-year anniversary of 9/11 Susquehanna River near Nescopeck and Berwick, Pa., after reviewing about a Bloomers tend to the garden from April The campus community came together half-dozen landscape photographs she through November to keep the garden in to observe the somber 10-year had taken in recent months. perfect order for the enjoyment of the anniversary of the terrorist attacks of University and the regional community. Sept. 11, 2001 with a slate of activities On Dec. 7, First Lady Susan Corbett that were designed to educate recognized the participants and remember those who award and died in the attacks and the subsequent welcomed MU wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. and Back The activities began with the Mountain Bloomer Government, Law & National Security representatives to Program-sponsored roundtable the Pennsylvania discussion, 9/11: Freedom, Security and Governor’s Life in America, 10 Years Later, that Residence in Members of the BM featured Keith Martin, the former director Mary Bove ‘15 had her picture chosen by PNA. Harrisburg, Pa. Bloomers accept award.

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Dr. Loftus named Three new Trustees named to BOT vice president John C. Metz named chair and Robert Soper named vice chair Barbara Samuel Loftus, Ph.D., has been named vice president Misericordia University and the Conference of the Division of Planning, for Mercy Higher Education elected Stuart M. Assessment and Research. Bell, CFP; Mary Hudack Erwine, RN, MSN; Dr. Loftus previously served and Robert C. Friedman to the University’s as vice president for the Middle Board of Trustees. They began their States Commission three-year terms in October. on Higher The Board of Trustees also elected John C. Education where Metz, a member of the board for 25 years, as Bell Erwine Friedman she helped guide chairman, and Robert Soper, a member of member colleges the board for five years, as vice chairman. Mr. and universities on Metz is the chairman and CEO of Metz institutional Culinary Management of Dallas, Pa. Mr. improvement Dr. Loftus Soper is president of Mohegan Sun at through Pocono Downs, Plains Township, Pa. accreditation and in meeting Mr. Bell is the director and president of external expectations for quality Luzerne Products, Inc., of Wilkes-Barre, Pa., a Metz Siegel Soper assurance standards. privately-owned property management and Her focus will be on assessment holding company, and oversees the James E. name because of the financial support she has and research functions, including & Constance L. Bell Foundation, a private provided to the health sciences. leadership and coordination of charitable foundation, as secretary and Mr. Friedman is the past president of University planning, institutional treasurer. Mr. Bell is also the director, Friedman Electric Supply Co., Wilkes-Barre, effectiveness, outcomes secretary and treasurer of Jebco, Inc., a and is a consultant with Friedman Electric. He assessment, and institutional wholly-owned investment subsidiary of is the owner of the River Street Jazz Café in research. She will also guide the Luzerne Products, and is a managing Wilkes-Barre and Friedman Farms in Dallas. implementation of the strategic member of Plainsville Sports, LLC, a sports He is active in the community by serving on plan and the reaffirmation of the training facility of Luzerne Products. several boards, including the Family Business accreditation process. Mrs. Erwine is the president of Erwine Council, Domestic Violence Service Center Home Health & Hospice, Inc., of Kingston, and Temple Israel. Alumni Ambassador Pa., a health care company that serves five Misericordia University also reappointed Program volunteers! counties in Northeastern Pennsylvania. A Dr. Ruth A. Connolly, Ed.D., Kristopher B. Gather with alumni for community advocate, she has served and Jones, J.D., William H. Kent, Paul “Chip’’ refreshments and conversation, continues to serve on many community and Siegel, Dr. Deborah Smith-Mileski, Ed.D., while learning how to help MU by nonprofit boards. Mrs. Erwine also has helped and Sister Mayon Sylvain, RSM to new referring students through the MU MU obtain a number of private gifts and three-year terms. Mr. Siegel, who retired as Proud Program, volunteering at government grants in support of the board chair after five years, was presented college fairs, and/or becoming a University’s health science programs. A with an engraved chair in recognition of mentor for students or alumni. teaching lab in John J. Passan Hall bears her his years of service. Gatherings will be held: Feb. 25 at 2 p.m.: MU campus, McGowan Room, Bevevino Library (March 17 snow date); March 30 at Students give MU high marks in 6 p.m.: Stroudsburg, Pa., hostess, Michele Roy Ritchie ‘88, at national higher education survey Studebakers, Route 611; April 24 at 4-7:30 p.m.: Philadelphia, Pa., Freshmen and seniors at Misericordia experience as good or excellent, compared ParenteBeard Office, One Liberty overwhelmingly rated their overall to an 89 percent average of other Place; Aug. 18 at 4 p.m.: Host educational experience as positive and gave institutions. Eighty-eight percent of Ryan Beliveau ’08, Bar Anticipation their University higher marks than other respondents said they would choose at Lake Como, N.J.; Oct. 21 at 2 comparable institutions in several important Misericordia again if they could start their p.m.: Hostess Lorraine Harmonas categories in the 2011 National Survey of collegiate careers over. Misericordia Student Engagement (NSSE.) freshmen also overwhelming rated their Henrich ’66, at her home at 201 Oct. 26 The survey included 416,000 randomly faculty as available, helpful and sympathetic McAlpine St., Duryea, Pa.; at 6 p.m.: selected first- and fourth-year students from (97 percent) and said the University provided Hostess Kelly Spencer 673 colleges and universities in the United the support they needed to succeed McAndrew ’79, incoming Alumni States. The results help institutions of higher academically (92 percent), compared to 81 Board president, at her home at 5 education confirm good practices in percent at all other schools surveyed. Heather Hill Rd., Bear Creek, Pa. undergraduate education and provide a Comparatively, 90 percent of MU seniors For more information or to benchmark by which schools can determine rated their educational experience as good RSVP: Virginia Conrad, M.S., ’05, an accurate measure of quality education. to excellent, higher than the NSSE average of ’10, assistant director of alumni, This year’s survey included 451 MU students. 87 percent. Seniors also rated the quality of community and donor relations, at In the study, 97 percent of first-year advising 10 percentage points higher than vconrad@ misericordia.edu or at students rated their entire educational at other surveyed institutions. (570) 674-6228.

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Dr. Carol Rittner ‘67, RSM, Board of Trustees

STORY BY JIM ROBERTS

Words have power. They can inspire or organize international conferences they can destroy. Few understand that before becoming the first director of the better than Dr. Carol Rittner, RSM, ’67, a Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity in member of Misericordia University’s New York City. In the time that followed, Board of Trustees and a Sister of Mercy. Dr. Rittner organized multiple As an author, educator, editor, film international conferences and seminars producer and conference organizer, Dr. on the Holocaust. She wrote and edited Rittner uses the power of the written and multiple books on it and related topics. spoken word to foster greater She was executive producer of the understanding and awareness of the documentary films, The Triumph of Holocaust and other genocides – human Memory, and 1986’s, The Courage to tragedies where one word — Mercy — Care, which was nominated for an was too often absent. Academy Award in the Short Dr. Rittner is the Distinguished Documentary category. Professor of Holocaust and Genocide Dr. Rittner is passionate about her Studies and the Dr. Marsha R. Grossman current documentary project – an Professor of Holocaust Studies at The hour-long movie on American Sisters Richard Stockton College of New Jersey. (nuns) in the Catholic Church. She is also the editor of Mercywords “Women in the Church have worked (www.mercywords.com), a quarterly long, hard and often unheralded. We are e-journal forum for religious and laity still here and still active in ministry that explores ideas and questions in making a positive contribution to the theology, religious studies, spirituality Catholic Church. That’s a story I want to and social activism. tell,” says Dr. Rittner, who is currently Her association with Misericordia seeking corporate sponsors for the began with her time as an undergraduate documentary to add to the nearly student and spans decades. When asked $300,000 she’s already raised. “Women in the about the strengths of an MU education, Dr. Rittner is the recipient of The Dr. Rittner says, “We offer an education Richard Stockton College's Ida E. King Church have worked based in the liberal arts where we Medallion for outstanding scholarship prepare students to deal with the ethical and international service to the human long, hard and often and moral questions that they will face in community. In 2000, she was honored by their professional lives. They will be Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Ridge and prepared to think and act in those awarded the Distinguished Daughter of unheralded.” situations.” Pennsylvania medal. In 2008, Dr. Rittner A former higher education was honored by the Conference for administrator, Dr. Rittner worked with Mercy Higher Education with the Mercy – Dr. Carol Rittner, RSM, ‘67 Nobel Peace Prize winner Elie Wiesel to Higher Education Award.

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The Department of Business and the Center for Economic and Entrepreneurship Education, under the direction of John Sumansky, Ph.D., worked with students, from left, William F. desRosiers ’09, ’11, Meagan Simkulak ’11, Brandi Brace ’11 and others to secure important paid internships Collaborations benefit while enrolled at MU. students, regional economy in good, family-sustaining jobs and BY PAUL KRZYWICKI Quick Info careers,’’ recalls Christopher Haran, the he economy in Northeastern For more information about GVTA former president and CEO of the Pennsylvania (NEPA) has lacked a or NPTI, please log on to Northeastern Pennsylvania Technology true identity since the Knox Mine www.greatvalleyalliance.com. Institute (NPTI) and Great Valley disaster in 1959 flooded the Technology Alliance (GVTA). “We needed anthraciteT mines in the Wyoming Valley a sustained collaborative effort between and effectively ended the golden age region faced in developing this new the region’s entrepreneurs and higher of coal mining. economy. The “Great Valley — education and economic development Anthracite from NEPA fueled the Pennsylvania’s I-81 Technology Corridor: leaders who were willing to lead and Industrial Revolution for the United States Growing a 21st Century Knowledge invest in our future.’’ and it was also the stimulus behind a Economy in Lackawanna and Luzerne The report concluded that regional population boom and the creation of Counties’’ report concluded in 1999 that economic leaders had to leverage the wealth in the region. After its untimely NEPA had to address several weaknesses area’s higher education institutions — 12 decline, the region’s economy was in order to compete and succeed in the in all — to build a technology base and reinvented through the manufacturing united endeavor. The lack of financial therefore capture the expansion of sector and the garment industry. support for entrepreneurs hampered the information technology and new media At the turn of the 21st century, the entrepreneurial business climate and the companies from larger metropolitan areas economy in NEPA was dominated by the creation of jobs and personal wealth. and capitalize on past investments in warehousing, distribution, health care, “A new economy is upon us,’’ the industrial and technology parks. These higher education and service industries. report states. “Its cornerstones are recommendations led to the formation of What was lacking, according to several knowledge, technology globalization and the GVTA in 2000, a private partnership visionaries, was an attempt to capitalize talent. In today’s economy speed is designed to facilitate the development of on the emerging knowledge-based, critical. Product half-lives are becoming the region’s new economy. In 2003, a technology-focused economy that was shorter and shorter and firm growth and consortium of regional colleges and expanding economies around the globe. survival may be as short as five years.’’ universities, including MU, formed the It was time for the “Great Valley’’ of It also concluded that the lack of a NPTI to serve as a vehicle for securing Lackawanna and Luzerne counties to major research-driven educational support and coordinating research, diversify in order to grow its own regional institution and less-than-ideal networking training, employment opportunities and economy, they said. between the region’s existing knowledge exchange. Together, these The Battelle Memorial Institute of technology-based industries all regional public-private partnerships were Cleveland, Ohio, was commissioned by were detriments to attracting and designed to facilitate NEPA’s transition to the Greater Scranton Chamber of retaining talented people and the 21st century economy and beyond. Commerce, the Greater Hazleton CAN technology-focused investment. Building a community with a strong DO, Inc., and the Greater Wilkes-Barre “We realized we had to make a bold entrepreneurial spirit based in Chamber of Business and Industry to statement in order to reenergize our state-of-the-art technology does not study the region and formulate a report economy and attract the necessary that highlighted the challenges the investment and people that would result See ECONOMY, Page 35

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CommunityPartnering for a healthier

John J. Passan Hall features low-cost community clinics in speech-language pathology and physical therapy

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Partnership COMMUNITY SERVICE yields physical therapy clinic

STORY BY PAUL KRZYWICKI

It didn’t take long for Stevie Lynn Dorbad ’11, M.S.P.T., to return to her alma mater, Misericordia University. Three months after being one of four valedictorians in her graduating class, she returned to campus to be one of two professional clinicians to staff the new John J. Passan Hall Physical Therapy Center on the lower campus. Clinicians, seated from left, are Dr. Susan The collaboration between NovaCare Barker, Stevie Lynn Dorbad ‘11, standing, Frank Rehabilitation and the Department of Serino ‘99 and Dr. Joshua Hogan ‘99, ‘11. Physical Therapy at Misericordia University QUICK INFO — have been treated at the clinic by has created a professional clinic at 100 For more information or to students and faculty members. Lake St., which will provide additional schedule an appointment at the Misericordia’s latest endeavor to clinical opportunities for students majoring Passan Hall Physical Therapy Center provide outreach to the community also in physical therapy, and an additional site at Misericordia University, please provides a venue for former students to for regional residents to receive standard call (570) 674-6230 or the give back to the profession and to remain and low-cost treatment for their ailments. NovaCare Rehabilitation Center in true to the tenets of MU by helping those “I cannot explain how excited I am to be Plains Township, Pa., at (570) most in need. The center’s chief back and intimately involved with MU,’’ 825-7676. Walk-in appointments clinicians, Dorbad and Joshua Hogan ’99, says Frank Serino ‘99, M.S.P.T., market are welcome. ’11, M.S.P.T., D.P.T., NovaCare manager of NovaCare Rehabilitation. “We Rehabilitation center manager, are couldn’t have planned it any better having excited by the opportunity. the three of us involved. I feel so circumstances do not provide them the “I think this partnership will really comfortable there and excited not only to opportunity,’’ says Serino, who manages benefit the local and campus communities treat students, staff and community, but 12 NovaCare clinics from Philadelphia to we also will provide learning experiences Northeastern Pennsylvania. as well as give the physical therapy for the students. “No one should be denied medically students some great opportunities to “We will be helping in their labs as well necessary care because an insurance experience real cases and learn some of as having students spend time with us in company does not approve due to the the business aspects of clinic operation,’’ clinic. It is very rewarding to be part of the level of plan the patient has or the says Hogan, the son of Eugene and the team,’’ Serino adds. circumstances of the injury,’’ adds Serino, late Marie Hogan. “I think it’s great that The Passan Hall Physical Therapy Center the son of Frank and Angeline Serino. Misericordia students have this is similar to any other rehabilitation center “Insurances place more and more opportunity right on campus. I feel it will staffed by licensed clinicians. It will accept restrictions on care and pay less and less. be beneficial for NovaCare, which is most major medical insurances and it will This should not determine the care a looking to grow in the area, as well as provide therapy for orthopedic conditions, person receives. Granted, we cannot do strengthening an already strong sports injuries, radiculopathy, workers’ pure pro-bono work, but to be able to Misericordia PT program with compensation claims, neurological give to those truly in need is really nice opportunities that didn’t exist before.’’ disorders, gait dysfunction, stroke and gives me a sense of gratification in “I don’t think you can pick a career in and more. our profession.’’ health care without wanting to help those What separates the new clinic from The physical therapy center is the in need,’’ adds the daughter of Susan others in the area is its dedication to second low-cost clinic on campus. The Dorbad. “We realize just how important providing care to those who cannot afford Department of Speech-Language service is at Misericordia. It is instilled in it, while also providing additional Pathology has been providing clinical us as we see the instructors and peers educational opportunities to MU students. opportunities to regional clients since around us. It’s what lets us know there “I believe that people who truly need 2003 in the Speech-Language and are people that truly care in the world. skilled services should not be denied Hearing Center. To date, more than 2,500 I’m grateful that I will be able to show it because an insurance company and/or life people — 1,980 children and 520 adults through work at the new clinic.’’

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Alumnus preserved state Kenneth C. history, documented other Wolensky ‘84 notable events in books ALUMNI PROFILE Hooked Historyon happened right in our own backyard, so STORY BY PAUL KRZYWICKI Quick Info: to speak. I was hooked on history from Kenneth C. Wolensky ‘84 an early age and loved it in high school. In 1984, Apple Computer Inc., B.A.: Misericordia University I’ve been interested in local, regional revolutionized information technology MPA: University of Delaware and Pennsylvania history as well as labor with the introduction of the Macintosh Ed.D.: Penn State University and industrial history.’’ personal computer and pop star Books: The Knox Mine Disaster: Dr. Wolensky retired in July 2011 after Michael Jackson won a record eight The Final Years of the Anthracite working at PHMC for 15 years and 25 Grammy Awards for Thriller. For Coal Industry and the Effort to years overall with the state government. members of Misericordia University’s Building a Regional Economy He and his wife, Cherie, live in graduating class, a former Pennsylvania (1999); Fighting for the Union Grantville, Pa. He is working on his forth governor delivered the Commencement Label: The Women’s Garment book, a still untitled work focusing on ceremony’s keynote address and Industry and the ILGWU in the history of the United Church of encouraged each of them to leave their Pennsylvania (2002); and Christ in Pennsylvania. Like his other own lasting marks on society. Challenging Complacency: The publications, he bases his book projects Twenty-eight years later, that message Life of Pennsylvania Governor on personal interest and focuses on still resonates with historian Kenneth C. George M. Leader (2011). particular aspects that have not been Wolensky ’84, Ed.D. “I simply remember explored before by other historians. graduation day in May of 1984,’’ he says inspiration.’’ Dr. Wolensky used the “The Knox Mine Disaster was an after being asked about his fondest foundation he established at MU to infamous event that happened in the collegiate memories. “It was a great day. preserve important historical artifacts, Wyoming Valley,’’ he says, talking about There were a lot of happy people and documents and property in the the subject of his first book that he smiling faces. The keynote speaker was commonwealth, and to offer his co-wrote with his brother, Robert P. former Pennsylvania Gov. George M. expertise in the operations of state Wolensky and his daughter, Nicole H. Leader. What a coincidence it is that I agencies, including the administration Wolensky. “While it was part of regional would befriend him over the past 10 of former Gov. Robert P. Casey. In his lore and many stories, no scholarly years and come to write his biography.’’ spare time, he wrote three books that publication had ever fully explained it.’’ Dr. Wolensky also fondly recalls a examined important periods of history For Dr. Wolensky, leaving his mark on no-nonsense professor whose and more than 25 articles, book reviews society meant preserving the path that demanding approach helped to shape and monographs. so many before him chose to take for him as a historian for the Pennsylvania “I’ve always been interested in the betterment of humankind. “It gave Historical and Museum Commission history,’’ says Dr. Wolensky, who has me a solid foundation in history from (PHMC), and as an author. “Dr. Louis given dozens of keynote addresses at which to pursue graduate school and Maganzin was an excellent teacher who ceremonies to note special historical then, in a roundabout way, eventually always brought out the best in me,’’ he anniversaries, such as the Battle of work as a historian,’’ he says, explaining says. “He challenged me to think Wyoming. “I remember a Boy Scout trip how MU gave him the tools he needed beyond the perceived boundaries of to Valley Forge when I was about nine to succeed. “Misericordia helped me to historical research, helped me hone my or 10 years old. I was fascinated by the hone my study skills to be successful in writing skills, and was just generally an fact that such important history graduate school.’’

12 MISERICORDIA TODAY M395x_Layout 1 2/13/12 3:40 PM Page 14 ALUMNI PROFILE

Jonelle Hook ‘04, Ph.D.

Dr. Hook secures Project NExT fellowship As a young mathematics professor and chemistry to network analysis," she says. NExT is the network of peers and researcher at Maryland's Mount St. Mary's During her graduate career, she spent mentors it provides. As I began my University, Jonelle Hook ‘04, Ph.D., is four summers teaching as an adjunct career, I was faced with many new already being recognized as a rising professor at Misericordia, which played a challenges in my teaching, research talent, having been selected as one of role in helping her land her first academic and university responsibilities. The about 60 Project NExT (New Experiences position as assistant professor of Project NExT network has been an in Teaching) fellows nationwide. But it mathematics at Mount St. Mary's in invaluable resource." was Hook's time as an undergraduate at Emmitsburg, Md. Hook's experience as an Misericordia that provided her with the There she has taught courses from undergraduate at Misericordia has had inspiration and guidance to follow her graph theory to calculus and developed a a lasting impact. She said the same career path. new, core math course called aspects of the University that appealed "Dr. Pat Touhey was the professor who "Mathematical Thought and to her then attracted her to Mount St. encouraged me to continue mathematics Problem-Solving." Dr. Hook designed the Mary's to begin her professional career. on a graduate level," recalls Dr. Hook, a course to be interactive so students "I chose Misericordia as it was a summa cum laude graduate and would be actively engaged and find Catholic liberal arts university that Swoyersville, Pa., native."In a probability mathematics less intimidating. would help me to develop both as and statistics course at Misericordia, I "I have been thrilled by the results and an intellectual and as a person," she remember coming up with an idea during it is difficult to put into words the acknowledges. "I was particularly drawn lecture and discussing it in class. However excitement I feel when non-math major to the close-knit community, small class small the idea was, Dr. (Jerry) Bradford students conjecture a mathematical idea sizes and the opportunity to interact entitled it the ‘Hook Theorem’ and this and explain why it is true," she says. with my professors on a daily basis." was the moment that fueled my drive to The Mathematical Association of become a mathematician. Drs. Touhey, America has recognized Dr. Hook's efforts Bradford, and (Sister Pat) Lapczynski with a 2011-12 Project NExT fellowship, a inspired me to become a professor." professional development program for Dr. Hook went on to earn her Ph.D. full-time teachers in their first or second from Lehigh University in 2010, with a year, addressing all aspects of an focus on combinatorics and graph theory, academic career. areas she was drawn to because they "Project NExT has helped me to To read about more alumni, create visualizations of intriguing, often develop and enhance my teaching in student and faculty at complex problems. innovative ways," she says. "In addition, accomplishments, log on to: "Also, graph theory is a branch of it has provided me with guidance to . mathematics that is accessible to begin and implement a successful Misericordia Today Extended undergraduates and has many real-world undergraduate research program. The Misericordia.edu/mutodayextended applications from computer science to most significant advantage of Project

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Beth Cardell ‘88, M.S., O.T.R./L.

ALUMNI PROFILE Top Classof the Alumna receives Distinguished Teaching Award from the University of Utah

hether it is to especially positive impact. help her “I enjoy helping After returning to Utah, she began to students in volunteer with the university’s new OT becoming students realize program, the first of its kind among the occupational state’s schools. As her involvement W therapists or in their potential ...” increased, she was offered a faculty discovering what she most wanted in position, which has proven to be a life, experience has been the key for – Beth Cardell ‘88, M.S., O.T.R./L. rewarding career move. Beth Cardell ’88, M.S., O.T.R./L. “I enjoy helping students realize their A 1988 Misericordia graduate with a help people, helping them get back potential and what they have to offer Bachelor of Science degree in into life and the things they wanted to other people,” she says. occupational therapy, Cardell spent participate in,” says Cardell, a Valley Meanwhile, Cardell is finishing a Ph.D. years as a traveling occupational View High School graduate. in health promotion and education at therapist, building her career through Cardell chose to attend Misericordia Utah. She is involved with a number of stays in North Carolina, Utah and because it had one of the few OT service efforts as well, serving on two various California locales before finally programs in the region, and because statewide boards and managing a heading back to Utah. There she found she became familiar with the campus monthly support group for adults with not only the place she wanted to live, through her mother, Elizabeth Sullivan brain injuries. “I was raised Catholic and but also her calling as an educator. Cardell, a 1954 graduate. Through her my mom went to Misericordia,” Cardell An assistant professor of occupational career at Misericordia, she valued the says. “The whole idea of doing service therapy at the University of Utah, close sense of community that enabled and mission work is important and it’s Cardell earned the College of Health many lasting friendships. just what I grew up with. I think if you Distinguished Teaching Award for “It’s a nice community with a have time or skill that someone else 2010-11. “I found it humbling,” she beautiful campus where I really made can benefit from, why not go for it?” acknowledges. “It makes me want to be some great friends,” she says. “I loved She continues to practice a better teacher because I feel I have to living on campus, and the relationships professionally in a university clinic live up to that. It makes me want to that I formed with people there. It was established by faculty that also allows work harder and to do a better job, so I possible to have really significant learning experiences for OT students, can say I feel like I deserved it.” relationships with people and make something that is central to Cardell’s A Blakely, Pa., native, Cardell learned great friends there because it was such teaching. “I really try to offer my about occupational therapy from an OT a small community. “ students experiences,” she says. “I try she met through her father’s volunteer As her career progressed, she to give them experiences and things work with United Cerebral Palsy in developed a particular interest in they can do to develop their own Scranton, Pa. working with adults with brain injuries, knowledge and construct how they “I liked the idea of problem solving many of whom are young adults, with understand things. I try to make it very and coming up with creative things to whom she feels she can have an experiential and very active.”

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Maintain the Momentum

Misericordia University alumni are No. 1 in a very important regional category — alumni giving rate. Several prestigious national publications that rank 25% colleges and universities utilize the percentage of alumni giving as one criterion in measuring institutional quality. As MU continues to become nationally recognized and regionally acclaimed, it is important to maintain the 20% positive momentum we’ve experienced over the last several years. A lot of Misericordia’s success is due to the generosity of our alumni. Regardless of size, 16% 16% your gift has a positive impact on MU’s perception among its peers and on students of today and tomorrow in the form of scholarships and improved campus amenities. 15%

Thank you in advance for supporting Misericordia’s mission of high quality academics, superb career preparation and honing within each student the passion to serve others. But most importantly, thank you for being University Wilkes King’s Marywood Misericordia Misericordia Proud! of Scranton University College University University

To make a donation to the Annual Fund, please contact Jim Bebla, director of development, at (570) 674-6740 or at [email protected], or Owen Baillie, assistant director of development, at (570) 674-8027 or at [email protected], or log on to www.misericordia.edu/makeagift.

*Source: U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges 2012 E L I F O R P

I N M U

L Passion fo rnews A fuels alumna’s success in media business

STORY BY JULIA TRUAX ‘12

resh out of college, the of public information. There she typical graduate could contributed to the school’s wait years before he or publications, covered campus she has earned events, submitted press releases and leadership positions in managed all of the school’s social their respective fields. media sites. During her time Mallory Vough ’08, though, didn’t at the institution of higher education, choose the most traditional path for Vough also established a YouTube Fher career in journalism. channel for the college, making it In the second semester of her one of the first community colleges freshman year at Misericordia to have a presence on the social University, the communications media site’s EDU channel. major, with an English minor, was She then moved on to The Patch, sitting in her journalism class when an up-and-coming Internet news her professor asked if anyone knew source sprouting up in communities how to use Adobe PageMaker. across the nation. Vough was Having used the program briefly in recruited to serve full time as the high school, Vough timidly raised her editor of the Nazareth Patch, one of hand and that was the 11 sites in the Lehigh Valley. beginning of her tenure with Patch is a community hub the University’s student where residents can check newspaper, The Highlander. on the latest happenings and The Bushkill Township, even contribute their own Pa., native passionately comments, photos and dove into the newspaper blogs. Freelancers contribute business and would spend stories on anything the next four years directing important to the community, much of the publication. Under the ranging from local sports, to supervision of her advisor, Melissa municipal meetings, to community Sgroi, the chair of the events. Vough’s Patch edition communications program, Vough celebrated its first anniversary on transitioned from managing editor to Dec. 1, 2011. “My boss came to me editor-in-chief, a position she held one day and said, ‘You really love during her junior and senior years at your Patch, we can’t teach you to do MU. “I owe a lot to ‘Mama Sgroi,’ ” that,’ ‘’ she recalls. says Vough, adding a smile. Vough takes pride in the local “She was always teaching Patch and the time she has you something.” dedicated to its development, but Vough also served as an intern she will never forget her roots and with The Times Leader, a those who took the time to help her Wilkes-Barred-based newspaper. She evolve as a journalist. “I’m really turned her intended one-semester lucky at 25 years old to be in the practicum at the daily newspaper field I went to school for and to be into a year-long experience in which so successful at my age,” she says. she worked as a reporter, Vough credits much of her good consistently writing front-page fortune to the faculty and staff at Mallllorryy Vough ‘‘08 worthy articles. “If you have the Misericordia, and can’t imagine iiss tthe ediittorr off tthe opportunity to keep going and add having her ‘start’ anywhere else. “I’m Nazzarretth Pattcch.. to your portfolio then do it,” says glad I came,” says Vough. “I’m really Vough, a practice that has proven lucky to have had the faculty I had most successful for her during and the mentorship I had with Dave her career. Phoenix and Sgroi. It was a really Upon graduation, Vough was hired great experience being here, and by Northampton Community now I will wait and see where the College to work part-time in its office ride will take me.”

16 MISERICORDIA TODAY M395x_Layout 1 2/13/12 3:40 PM Page 18 Best ALUMNI PROFILE of both WORLDS Secondary education certificate helps alumna realize dream of working in nonprofit and education sectors

ianna Carlisle ’11 has a passion for both education and working with R nonprofit organizations, so when in 2011 she took on the role of program manager for Junior Achievement Rianna Carlisle ‘11 is program manager for of Northeastern PA (JANEPA), it was a Junior Achievement of Northeastern natural fit. Pennsylvania

“Junior Achievement was the best of from a basic understanding of individuals’ Carlisle said. “I hear so many parents and both worlds for me — nonprofit and roles in communities through lessons in volunteers tell me over and over that they education,” she says. “I knew from my economics and management. wish programs like JA existed when they first interview with the organization and As program manager, Carlisle oversees were in school.” my first tour of the facility that this is and implements in-class programs across A native of Waverly, N.Y., and a 2009 where I wanted to be.” JA’s service region and assists in graduate of St. Bonaventure University, Misericordia University’s secondary Carlisle, 24, said she knew she wanted to education certificate program helped help students reach their potential and make that possible. A 2011 graduate of she wanted to hone her teaching skills. the program, Carlisle said the breadth of She chose Misericordia, she said, because education she received gave her a leg up of the superior reputation of its education on the competition. programs. “Most importantly, I knew “The organization (JANEPA) needed Misericordia was a small school dedicated someone that was capable of teaching to their students and their community,” K-12 and my Misericordia education was she says. the perfect fit because I took courses in Carlisle, now a resident of Kingston, Pa., elementary education as well as cites an important lesson that Steve secondary education,” she explains. “It Broskoske, Ed.D., associate professor of definitely helps me communicate with Rianna Carlisle ‘11 poses for a picture inside teacher education, taught her during administrators, educators, and the the Junior Achievement of NEPA facility. classroom instruction: Success is business community because I understand measured not be wealth, but by how and relate to the needs of many of my developing simulated communities that passionate you are about what you do. constituents and many students.’’ teach students through experience a range “Truly waking up to a profession that we JANEPA, a member of Junior of financial issues from personal to business love every day and dedicating our lives to Achievement USA, serves 10,000 students to community. She’s also responsible for it is more important than the money in our from kindergarten through 12th grade in recruiting and training volunteers, and pockets,” she believes. “It feels good to 13 counties across the region. Through an teaching through experiential learning. know that I’m making a difference in the array of programs, the organization “I absolutely love that JA programs community and helping volunteers and teaches students about work readiness, really do help students understand that students become better individuals. It’s entrepreneurship and financial literacy they can own their economic success,” extremely rewarding.”

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MU Artist-In-Residence ACADEMICS Skip Sensbach, M.F.A. Arts Spring

STORY BY PAUL KRZYWICKI

Creatively speaking, the cube does not offer a lot to the staid mind or eye. The static, six-sided object, though, can be the starting point for unleashing the creative talents of budding and intermediate artists, according to Misericordia University Artist-In-Residence, Skip Sensbach, M.F.A. “It is an abstract design,’’ he says, addressing several MU students enrolled in a fine arts ceramic class at the Misericordia University Art Studios at 50 Lake St. “We don’t have to rely on it being a TV. Think outside of the box and think a little deeper and go a little farther with it.’’ It’s obvious by some of the work scattered around the studios’ three tables that are reserved for hand building that Sensbach’s advice has taken root. MU student Amanda Peslak ’14 of Highland Lakes, N.J., one of 18 students in the ceramics course, traces leaves onto the side of her cube before carefully cutting the side of it open to unveil a butterfly in flight, extending outwardly from the formerly bland box of clay. “It’s been really interesting,’’ says Peslak, a psychology and doctor of physical therapy major, who is a novice in using the medium. “It’s been difficult in parts, but it’s great because Mr. Sensbach really works with you. He challenged us to take a box and make it into anything.’’ Peslak is one of 119 Misericordia University students who enrolled in one of the applied fine arts courses during the fall semester, such as applied music, photography, watercolor, chamber singing and instrumental ensemble — all of which also count towards the new minor. The minor in fine arts program features specialties in studio art and music with tracks in dance and photography planned for the future. The addition of the minor and the leasing of the art studios facility also enabled the University to introduce non-credit art classes for the community. The non-credit courses were developed by the Department of Fine Arts, in partnership with the Center for Adult and Continuing Education, and have been designed for people who have a skill in the fine arts and want to refine it or for beginners who want to be introduced to a certain medium. “The non-credit art classes compliment the offerings

18 MISERICORDIA TODAY M395x_Layout 1 2/13/12 3:41 PM Page 20 ACADEMICS Artist-In-Residence Skip Sensbach, left, poses with Babetta Wenner, seated, and Georgiana Cray Bart. to Life Minor in Fine Arts offers students an opportunity to refine talents, while offering non-credit courses to the community selections in drawing and composition, will help us extend outreach to a ceramics, media arts and more. deserving community.’’ Quick Info: “I think it’s really great that Wenner has a B.A. in art education Misericordia introduced the minor,’’ adds and a master’s in education. As the For a complete list of non-credit Peslak. “I was even interested in a minor, coordinator of the facility, she is fine arts classes being offered at myself. It shows, though, that we have a responsible for developing and the Misericordia University Art variety and it shows that it’s not just a scheduling non-credit courses and Studios, please log in to specific kind of school.’’ recruiting talented adjunct artists as www.misericordia.edu/finearts or The courses in the fine arts required instructors. She also teaches call the Center for Adult and the Department of Fine Arts to add credit-bearing fine arts courses. Continuing Education at (570) Sensbach as an artist-in-residence and “An outstanding educator needs to be 674-6289. several regionally acclaimed artists as extremely capable in not only passing faculty and adjunct instructors. along knowledge of the subject in a of local, independent art instructors,’’ Sensbach has a bachelor’s degree in comprehensible, organized and innovative explains Babetta Wenner, M.S., assistant visual communication and a Master in way, but also do so with enthusiasm,’’ says professor of fine arts and Art Studios Fine Arts. He worked as an award- Wenner, whose specialty is watercolor and coordinator. “Our classes are valuable winning graphic designer in New Jersey. drawing. “How will the students get and unique because they focus on After moving to Pennsylvania, he began excited if the teacher does not seem offering art instruction in a broad variety working in clay and opened Green Dog excited about her subject?’’ of art media, including three-dimensional Pottery in Dallas in 1998. His studio work Georgiana Cray Bart holds bachelor’s forms and creative materials focuses on functional clay work as well as and master’s degrees in fine arts and art and techniques.’’ teaching. In 2010, Sensbach was the education. The owner and operator of Misericordia has a storied history in the winner of the Ruane Graduate Award for Georgiana Cray Bart’s Studio in arts. Since 1924, MU has offered various Artistic Excellence. Sensbach’s functional Wilkes-Barre, Pa., specializes in original courses, certificates, minors and majors in and sculptural ceramic works have been paintings and drawings, including portraits dance, fine arts, music, speech, drama recognized in many regional shows, and landscapes, but is best known for her and more. The University also offered including Wilkes-Barre’s Fine Arts Fiesta pastel still-life paintings in a style related three degree programs in music, a and in Binghamton, N.Y.’s WSKG-TV Art to Fauvism and Impressionism. Bachelor of Arts, a Bachelor of Music in in Motion competition. His work also was Misericordia invested $285,000 in the Music Education, and a Bachelor of Music accepted in the 2011 Art of the State renovation of the leased space and in Music Therapy. In 1933, the Music exhibit at the State Museum in purchase of equipment and supplies. The Department became affiliated with Trinity Harrisburg, Pa. Art Studios features two art spaces, one College of Music in Mandeville Place, “We are very pleased and honored to designed to facilitate three-dimensional London, England, which at that time have a well-known and talented work such as clay and sculpture, and the allowed Misericordia students to sit for artist-in-residence raise the profile of the other for two-dimensional works, like the Trinity College examinations. University’s non-credit and credit course drawing and painting. The facility also While many of those classes — dance, offerings, and make the community feel features 40 drying racks, 18 easels, 18 theater, choir, instrumental ensembles, welcome in the Lake Street Art Studios,’’ drafting tables, eight pottery wheels, voice and more — remained available to says Russ Pottle, Ph.D., dean of the three tables for hand building, three students it was not until the 2011-12 College of Arts and Sciences. “Many platforms for models, one clay academic year that students could earn a wonderful artists are contributing to the pugger-mixer, one electric kiln, one glass minor with 15 credits. Reintroduction of Art Studios’ excellent programming. Mr. kiln, one slab roller, one clay extruder and an organized program offers students Sensbach’s regular presence in the facility other intrinsic equipment and supplies.

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Alumni Class Notes News Stay in touch with friends, classmates and the MU community during the year by posting updates about your career, family and accomplishments on cougarconnect.misericordia.edu, For more information about or on facebook.com/MisericordiaAlum, or on twitter.com/misericordialum. alumni events, follow MU on twitter.com/misericordialum. Linda Gennaro Scappaticci Marie A. Pallante, J.D., Helene Flower ’60 and her husband, Dr. F. ’86 was appointed the 12th Reed ’66 ‘60 Thomas Scappaticci, ‘86 Register of Copyrights and As you read this, my tenure as president of celebrated their 50th Director of the United States the Misericordia University Alumni wedding anniversary on July 8, 2011. Copyright Office, a division of the Library Association is coming to an end. of Congress, in June 2011. These last three years have been exciting, Mary Sue Jennings challenging and very rewarding. Misericordia Lacovara ’61 and her Mary Bartos ’86, the owner of Bridal continues to grow by leaps and bounds. husband, Richard, of Little Trinkets, Shavertown, Pa., recently added President Michael A. MacDowell is truly a ‘61 Egg Harbor, N.J., celebrated a new store, Amore Jewelry and Gifts, at man of vision, and that vision continues to their 50th wedding anniversary on Nov. the same location. It is decorated in manifest itself in an ever-expanding 18, 2011. They have two children and five Misericordia blue and gold. She earned Misericordia. During my term, we have seen the acquisition of John J. Passan Hall, the grandchildren. The couple celebrated with a bachelorʼs degree in business completion of the McGowan Residence Hall a Bermuda cruise and a family vacation at administration from MU. and the acquisition of the Machell Avenue the Outer Banks in North Carolina. Residence Hall. The additional housing on David Donohue ’98 swam campus is necessary because of MU’s Dr. Susan Fort Sordoni, in the 2011 South End continued growth in enrollment. At this very M.D., ‘68, was recognized ‘98 Rowing Clubʼs 16th annual moment, construction is underway on the ‘68 by Pennsylvania Gov. Tom invitational Alcatraz Swim. upper campus for an additional mixed-use Corbett and First Lady Susan For the event, David swam from Alcatraz facility that features additional space for Corbett as one of nine Distinguished Island, formerly Alcatraz Federal Prison, resident students and academic classrooms. Daughters of Pennsylvania. The distinction to the San Francisco, Calif., Hyde Street Misericordia also has established a football honors women who have shown Pier on Sept. 17, 2011. David swam the program. We now have a team under the distinguished service through a professional mile and one-quarter distance of able leadership of head coach Mark Ross and career and/or voluntary service. treacherous waters in a time of his assistant, Chris Gray. The team takes to 35 minutes. the field this fall. Our award-winning Kathleen Lukatch Shakespeare Garden has grown to maturity Clemente, ’74, ’00 was Lynn Nowak Kamarousky and provides additional beauty to our recently promoted to ’01 and her husband, outstanding campus. The Pauly Freedman Art ‘74 professor at Luzerne County Gabriel, welcomed their Gallery has offered outstanding exhibits that ‘01 are unparalleled in the region. Community College. Dr. Clemente is a second son, Matthew, on These improvements could not have been faculty member in the Hospitality Business March 11, 2011. realized without the continued support of Management Department at LCCC. A you, our alumni. You have chosen to support registered dietitian, Dr. Clemente has a Lynn Babbitt Urban ’01 and her the mission of the Sisters of Mercy whose Bachelor of Science degree in home husband, Brian, welcomed a baby boy on spirit permeates Misericordia. Misericordia is economics and a Master of Science Dec. 28, 2011. Henry Wyatt Urban what it is today because of your support. For degree in organizational management weighed in at nine pounds and joins his that, you should be very proud. from Misericordia University; a Master of brother, Wesley (3 years), and sister, In closing, I want to thank Alumni Board Science degree in nutrition from Adelaide (21 months). Past-President Mary Ellen Gulotti for all of her Marywood University; and received a invaluable help. The Alumni Board was Doctorate of Education with a Dr. Maria Waselus ’02 and always very supportive and encouraging. MU concentration in adult education from her husband, Jason William staff members, Denise Miscavage, Lailani Pennsylvania State University last year. Davenport, were united in Augustine and Virginia Conrad, were always ‘02 the sacrament of marriage available to lend advice and a helping hand. Mary Holdredge Anyomi on Oct. 2, 2010. Maria is a postdoctoral To the Misericordia family — students, faculty, ’77 on May 7, 2011 received research fellow at the University of staff, Sisters of Mercy, Mike and Tina her second Masterʼs degree Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich. The couple MacDowell, Trustees, and fellow alumni — I ‘77 want you to know how very special you have in educational technology honeymooned in Toronto, Canada. They made these last three years. Thank you one from the University of South Carolina, reside in Hamburg Township, Michigan. and all. I wish all the best to incoming Alumni Columbia S.C. Board President Kelly McAndrew. I know with Eric Michael Crahall ’02 and his wife, your continued support, she too, will have a William Jones '85 has been Christina Marie Curcio, were united in very fulfilling term. named President and CEO marriage on Sept. 17, 2011. Eric is ‘85 at United Way of employed as a social studies teacher by Wyoming Valley. the Wilkes-Barre Area School District. The couple honeymooned in Cape May, N.J.

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Continued from the previous page behind the Woodlands Inn and Resort, office manager for PAX Christi USA, a Plains Township, Pa. national Catholic organization dedicated They reside in Dallas, Pa. to peace education. Amy Lynn Hughes ’08 and Peter Maureen Gilroy ’03 and James Dyson chose McDade Park Janelle Elizabeth Montigney ’10 and her husband, Martin as the setting for their July 23, 2011 Brian Paul Evangelista were united in Salitis, chose St. Thomas ‘03 wedding. Amy is a learning support marriage on May 7, 2011. Janelle is Aquinas Church as the teacher in Pocono Mountain School employed at Samʼs Club, Wilkes-Barre setting for their Sept. 9, District. They live in Tannersville, Pa. Township. The couple honeymooned on 2011 wedding. Maureen is an a Royal Caribbean Cruise to Bermuda occupational Melissa Abrams ’08, a graduate of the and the Caribbean. They reside in therapist with entry-level Masterʼs OT program, was Hunlock Creek, Pa. Genesis Healthcare featured in the blog, NEWS-Line for at Wayne Occupational Therapists and COTAʼs Albert Lyons III ’10 and Deanna Marie Woodlands Manor. in January. Lombardi ’10 were married July 16, 2011 Following a wedding at St. Nicholas Church, Wilkes-Barre, Pa. trip to Aruba, the Krstina Bach ’09 and Following a honeymoon in Las Vegas, couple resides in Wayne T. Kogoy ’09 Nev., they live in Hanover Township, Pa. Olyphant, Pa. ‘09 were married during a sunset ceremony on May Megan Baker ’10 and Nick DeStefano Matthew Rogers ’04, a 20, 2011 on the beach in Key West, Fla. ’09 were married Aug. 13, 2011. Megan staff songwriter with Better is employed at Geisinger Wyoming Angels Music Group, had ‘04 Ashlee Leonard Berry ‘09 and Kelly Valley Medical Center as a radiologic a song he co-wrote with Berry ‘09 were technologist in the cardiac catheterization Chris Weaver recorded by American Idol married June 25, 2011 lab. Nicholas is employed at Misericordia winner Jordin Sparks. You Gotta Want It in St. Annʼs Basilica, University as a residence hall director. was released on iTunes as part of the Scranton, Pa. A NFLʼs Official Gameday Music of the reception was held at NFL, Vol. 2 package. the Radisson Lackawanna Station Stacy Matiskella ’06 and Hotel. The couple her husband, Thomas lives in Dallas, Pa. ‘06 John Horan, chose Nativity BVM Church, Candice Kilmer ’09 and Shane Edward Tunkhannock, Pa., as the setting for Pagnotti ’08 were married May 29, 2011. their Oct. 22, 2010 wedding. Stacy is the clinical leader at Community Medical Lauren Leigh Burgio ’09 and William President Obama addressed Ms. Prinz’s Center in the cardio-thoracic intensive Francis Farber III were married at St. students. care unit. The couple took a wedding trip Rose of Lima Church on Oct. 2, 2010. Kerriann Prinz ’10, a teacher at Yeadon to the Bahamas. Lauren is an occupational therapist at Regional Head Start Center in Delaware Genesis Rehabilitation. Following a County, Pa., was proud initially to find Stephen Stolarick wedding trip to Antigua, the couple out that her school was chosen by the ’06 and Michelle resides in Greenfield Township, Pa. White House for a presidential visit and Lynn Wentzel ’06 then ecstatic when her supervisors were united in Elisa Kennedy ’09 and Ryan Weaver chose her classroom for a special visit marriage on May ’08 were joined in marriage at the by President Barack Obama on Nov. 8. 28, 2011 and were Misericordia University chapel on joined in marriage at the Misericordia Aug. 6, 2011. The couple resides in Stacey Osenbruck ’11 University chapel. The couple resides in Williamsport, Pa. and Stanley Raijski ’08 Dallas, Pa. ‘11 were married Sept. 3, Susan Lynn Gagatek ’10 2011 in the Misericordia Elsa Mary Antony Gates and Richard Henry Shubilla University chapel. ’07 and Christopher were united in marriage David Gates ’05 ‘10 ‘07 Oct. 15, 2010 at St. Mario Stetts ’11 and Danielle Basile Stephenʼs Episcopal Church. Susan is ’11 were married May 27, 2011. welcomed their employed as a registered dental hygienist. baby girl, Maya The couple honeymooned in Punta Cana. Alicia Drumheller ’11 and Dr. Matthew Anne Gates, born They reside in Plymouth, Pa. Makuta were married in a double ring on Sept. 11, 2011. ceremony in Holy Rosary Church, July Kara Kuncio ’08 and Rachel Roa ’10 completed 18 months of 2011. Alicia is employed at the Center Jason Lukachinsky were service with the Franciscan Mission for Pediatric Therapy in Wyomissing, Pa. ‘08 married June 23, 2011 in Service as a development associate and The couple honeymooned in St. Lucia. an outside ceremony has been named finance associate and They reside in West Reading, Pa.

WINTER 2012 21 M395x_Layout 1 2/13/12 3:41 PM Page 23 ALUMNI It takes three days at Alumni Weekend to catchproud up on everything Misericordia

ALUMNI WEEKEND 2011 We’re getting ready for Alumni Weekend 2012 which is May You can also relive your experiences and browse through a 31 through June 3 on campus. In the meantime, we thought it collection of other campus photosets by visiting our expanded would be fun to relive some of the excitement from last online photo albums found on Misericordia Flickr at summer’s event. It attracted more than 200 alumni, family and http://flickr.com/misericordiau. friends to campus for fun and games and the chance to In the meantime, celebrate our 2011 Misericordia University reacquaint with classmates and our ever-expanding campus. Alumni Association award winners and see what they have to say After all, you truly need a long weekend to celebrate being in our special question-and-answer feature, Up Close, in which Misericordia Proud! we ask alumni to share their secrets for success and happiness.

Be kind, generous, give and share what you have. Give back and UP CLOSE help others. Be your own person and don’t let others change you What piece of advice would you like to share with or tell you how you should be.” the alumni community? Mary Alice Lawlor Harrington ‘61: “Keep active with the Alumni Community. Attend reunions, start or attend a gathering Sister of Mercy Alumni Award: in your area, work on alumni programs such as Annual Giving or Patricia McCann, Ed.D., RSM, college fairs, and learn what Misericordia University is about now. ’69, associate professor of The Alumni have so much to offer to each other.’’ teacher education, received the Sister of Mercy Alumni Award, Hilda Staub Garey Award: which is awarded periodically to Jeanne Tully Purcell ’51 was a Sister of Mercy who has presented with the Hilda Staub rendered exceptional service to Garey Award, which is awarded the University and/or has periodically to an association demonstrated and sustained professional achievements. member for extraordinary service Presenting the award, from left, are Helen Flower Reed ’66, Mary to the University or the Bride Pollard, RSM, ’58, Dr. McCann ‘69 and Jane Frances Misericordia University Alumni Kennedy, RSM, ’60. Association. Participating in the Patricia McCann ’69: “Be a prism for the Charisms of the award presentation, from left, are Mary Ellen Gulotti ’87, Purcell Sisters of Mercy: Mercy, Service, Justice and Hospitality. Let your and Helene Flower Reed ’66. lives and those you touch be imbued with the mission of Jeanne Tully Purcell ‘51: “Let your life and those you touch Misericordia University. Reflect on service, not as a burden, but as bring out the intimacy of belonging to the Mission of a glorious gift from our God. Be passionate about what you do Misericordia University. Be generous, kind, and give and share and have zest for life.’’ what you have. May you see yourself with the pride which God sees in you every moment.’’ Alumni Medallion Award and Mission Award: The Alumni Association Class of ’61 receives Reunion Awards presented the Alumni Medallion Reunion Award Bowls — The Class of 1968 Award for the Award to Marge Moll Mangan ’61 largest class gift, The Class of 1943 Award for the highest and the Mission Award to Mary percentage of donors; The Sister Eloise McGinty Trophy for the Alice Lawlor Harrington ’61. highest average gift; and The Bettsi Jaeger 1968 Award for the Posing for a picture at the award highest percentage of classmates returning for Alumni Reunion presentation, from left, are Helene Weekend — were each Flower Reed ’66, Harrington, presented to members Esther Burke Kapcsos ’61 and of the Class of 1961. At Mangan. The Medallion Award is awarded annually to recognize the presentation, from anniversary class members who have demonstrated outstanding left, are President community service, commitment to the strengthening of family MacDowell, Sandra life and distinguished professional contributions. The Mission Della Croce ‘61, Award is given periodically to an alumna or alumnus who Rosemary Fitzpatrick exemplifies the mission as set forth by the Sisters of Mercy. MacIntyre ‘61, Claire Marge Moll Mangan ‘61: “Any day we get out of bed and put Schall Simington ‘61, our feet on the floor is a good day! Do what you love and love Elizabeth Glosser ’61 and enjoy what you do. See God in everyone, appreciate the and Mary Alice Lawlor world God created and recognize Christ’s presence in our lives. Harrington ’61.

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2011 HOMECOMING September 30 - October 2

More MU Homecoming memories can be found at http://bit.ly/MUHomecoming11

WINTER 2012 23 M395x_Layout 1 2/13/12 3:41 PM Page 25

2011 WINTER COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY

More Winter Commencement memories can be found at http://bit.ly/MUWinterComm11

24 MISERICORDIA TODAY M395x_Layout 1 2/13/12 3:41 PM Page 26

Commencement speaker announced Kerry Robinson, M.A.R., FACULTY & STAFF NOTES executive director of the National Leadership Roundtable on In the fall of 2012, Scott Blanchard, Ph.D., D.Ed., associate professor of nursing, was Church Management, professor of English, is going to be published presented with the 2011 Nursing Education will be the guest in The I Tatti Renaissance Library Series from Award by the Pennsylvania State Nurses speaker when Harvard University Press. He translated a 15th Association at the Awards Ceremony at the Misericordia century dialogue on exile by the Milanese University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. University holds its humanist Francesco Filelfo, who was writing 86th annual Robinson on behalf of the exiled Florentine aristocrats Joseph A. Cipriani, Jr., Ed.D., O.T.R./L., Commencement who departed in 1434 at the rise of Cosimo professor of occupational therapy, had an ceremony on Saturday, May 19 at de’ Medici. His colleague, Dr. Jeroen article published in the international journal, 2 p.m. in the Anderson Sports and DeKeyser of the Catholic University of Nursing and Residential Care. The article, Health Center on Leuven in Belgium, prepared the Latin text Improving Mental Health Through ‘Giving campus. A and Dr. Blanchard prepared the translation. Activities’, was published in the volume 13, baccalaureate Mass issue 10 October 2011, pages 490-492 of the will precede the Ellen McLaughlin, Ed.D., O.T.R./L., United Kingdom-based journal upon ceremony at 10:30 associate professor of occupational therapy invitation of the journal’s editor. a.m. in the Anderson and director of the doctorate of OT program, Center. has been named chair-elect of the Sister Patricia McCann, RSM, Ed.D., During the Dr. Cappello Accreditation Council for Occupational associate professor of teacher education, Commencement Therapy Education. Dr. McLaughlin will serve presented St. Patrick’s Junior National School ceremony, MU will present Mrs. as the chair-elect and then become chair for in Corduff, Ireland, with two Mercy crosses, a Robinson and her husband, the 2012-15 term. plaque and a Misericordia throw rug while on Michael Cappello, M.D., professor a retreat to acknowledge the partnership of medicine and director of the Sheryl Goss, M.S., R.T.(R.)(S.), R.D.M.S., between the school and the teacher World Fellows Program at Yale R.D.C.S., R.V.T., chair and assistant professor education department. University, with honorary Doctor of diagnostic medical sonography, has been of Humane Letters degrees. re-elected as secretary for the Society of Stevan L. Davies, Ph.D., professor of Diagnostic Medical Sonography Board of religious studies, had his textbook, The New Directors and chosen as the chair-elect for Testament: An Analytical Approach, Nursing students’ the Joint Review Committee for Education in published by Polebridge Press at Willamette pass rates exceed Diagnostic Medical Sonography. University, Salem, Ore. national average Lorie Zelna, M.S., R.T., (R)(MR), associate Robert L. Williams, M.S., has been named Misericordia nursing students professor of medical imaging, has been director of the Center for Economics and who recently graduated from the awarded the Elsevier Faculty Development Entrepreneurship Education. Bachelor of Science program Scholarship in Radiation Science by the surpassed both the state and Association of Collegiate Educators in Stanley J. Dudrick, M.D., medical director national averages for pass rates Radiologic Technology in support of her and Robert S. Anderson Endowed Chair of on the National Council Licensure pursuit of an advanced degree. the physician assistant program, was Examination (NCLEX-RN) exams Zelna was also one of 13 medical imaging presented with the Nathan Smith, M.D., during the past year. professionals who completed the American Distinguished Service Award by the New BSN graduates achieved an Society of Radiologic Technologists England Surgical Society at its 92nd annual 88.14 percent pass rate for Leadership Academy. meeting. first-time test-takers who took the Dr. Dudrick also was an honored invited NCLEX-RN examination between The Pennsylvania Senate confirmed the lecturer and panelist of the Congress of the Oct. 1, 2010 and Sept. 30, 2011. nomination of Brenda L. Hage, Ph.D., D.N.P, Polish Surgical Society in Poland. Misericordia graduates surpassed C.R.N.P., associate professor of nursing and both the average national pass director of graduate nursing programs, to the James Siberski, M.S., C.M.C., CRmT, rate of 87.81 percent and the Pennsylvania Council on Aging. Dr. Hage was assistant professor and coordinator of average pass rate of 87.66 nominated to the post by Gov. Tom Corbett gerontological education, co-authored a percent at other colleges and in September. The state Senate unanimously chapter in the second edition of the universities in Pennsylvania. approved her nomination Nov. 1. textbook, A Practitioner’s Guide to Clinical In order to receive permanent Dr. Hage also completed the requirements Occupational Therapy. certification, a nursing candidate for the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree at must pass an examination that Chatham University, Pittsburgh, Pa. Allen C. Minor, D.B.A., assistant professor measures the competencies newly of business, has been named to the Healthy licensed, entry-level nurses have Donna Ayers Snelson, R.N., M.S.N., C.S., Northeast Pennsylvania Initiative board. to perform safely and effectively.

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Fall 2011 Alumni Pie. Alumni celebrate winning a prize at 2011 Homecoming.

Alumni return to campus for Orientation 2011.

NY Yankees alumni gathering.

Men’s soccer alumni return for annual Homecoming game.

Many alumni renew acquaintances at gathering in Allentown.

Orientaton counselors and alumni volunteers welcome freshmen. Kristi Empett ‘03 wins Nook at M395x_Layout 1 2/13/12 3:41 PM Page 28

Pizza and refreshments are prepared for study week.

Religious Sisters of Mercy who were among those honored at the Sisters Serving Sisters dinner in December. on 2011.

Alumni, including 3 members of the Ezdebski family, prepare gift bags for graduates at December’s Commencement. Make more alumni connections. Visit cougarconnect.misericordia.edu by using your unique log-in ID located above your address on Misericordia Today.

Field hockey alumni returned to campus to play in a game at their alma mater during Homecoming 2011.

Commencement marshals pose for a picture at MU’s ‘03 wins Nook at Homecoming 2011. Paul Egbert ‘10, left, served as a Commencement marshal inaugural winter Commencement in December. at sister, Kristen Egbert’s graduation, in December 2011. M395x_Layout 1 2/16/12 12:21 PM Page 29 INTERNSHIPS

Rachel Ayers ‘13, left, is a campus ambassador for The Palmiter Financial Group under the direction of Campus Kevin R. Palmiter ‘90. AMBASSADOR integrity, love, family, purpose, courage, representative. “Our internships are BY PAUL KRZYWICKI impact — these are all values that extremely competitive and the selection Northwestern strives to achieve every process is very rigid,’’ explains Palmiter, Business major receives day. The amount of growth both a 1990 graduate of Misericordia with a post with Northwestern personally and professionally available to bachelor’s degree in marketing and a me through this process has made me minor in management. “It’s a real-life, Mutual Financial Group want to continue to develop.’’ real-work, paid internship that provides Ayers’ overall growth during her real-world situations and teaches the art Like a lot of people, Rachael Ayers ’13 internship led Northwestern Mutual and science of selling.’’ is quick to acknowledge that it took her a Financial Network to name her a “campus Ayers began the internship in May little extra time to find out what she ambassador’’ — one of only two interns 2011 after listening to Palmiter make a wanted to be when she grew up. hired by The Palmiter Financial Group in presentation in class. His talk made her The 2002 Tunkhannock High School the Wilkes-Barre, Pa., area. In the position, curious and the experience gave her graduate completed beauty school and she is responsible for introducing the enviable accomplishments to build her enjoyed being a successful hair stylist for company’s paid internship program to resume around. “I grew with the eight years. Ayers’ budding career was prospective student interns and company with support from all angles detoured somewhat when she enrolled in representing the firm at collegiate career when needed and the push to succeed,’’ Misericordia University’s business fairs and club meetings. Ayers says. “I just had to want it. I thank management program in order to gain “Rachael’s maturity, her demonstration Mr. Palmiter every day for walking into the expertise and knowledge she would for not being afraid to work hard and her that classroom because I love my job. It is need to own and operate her own salon. discipline were what we found the most not just an internship to me. I could see it Two years into her Bachelor of Science attractive,’’ says Kevin R. Palmiter ‘90, as my career.’’ studies, Ayers’s career path came into C.L.T.C., managing director of The Ayers arrives at the office daily at 7:30 focus with the assistance of a competitive Palmiter Financial Group, outlining the a.m. to prepare for her day. On Tuesdays internship program with The Palmiter qualities that led to her appointment. and Fridays, special meetings are Financial Group of the Northwestern “She demonstrated how she wanted to scheduled between interns and the Mutual Financial Network — one of the have a positive impact in our local college unit director to discuss successful top 10 internship programs in the country, community. An intern in our program can appointments and new clients. The according to the Princeton Review. continue the intern experience in any state company also has a weekly development With the hands-on business experience in the country, however, Rachael’s desire session in which, for example, concepts of she gained as a financial advisor during to stay local and to consider starting her permanent life insurance, are discussed. her internship, Ayers believes she now own practice here upon graduation was a “My main goal and responsibility is to has found her place in life and in big plus with our company.’’ find the value that I can bring to each and business. “There is so much that I learned The internship program with every client I sit down with,’’ Ayers says. from a business perspective,’’ she Northwestern is very rigorous. Select “There is no one holding a brick over acknowledges, “but I also learned a lot students are required to complete a your head demanding that you do it. You about myself and who I want to be. two-week training exercise and become just do. Being a financial representative “The values brought to the table by licensed and registered financial advisors creates discipline because you have to Northwestern Mutual brought my life into in the state. Afterward, they have the learn to be your own boss and manage perspective for my future. Passion, same responsibilities as a full-time your time wisely.’’

28 MISERICORDIA TODAY M395x_Layout 1 2/13/12 3:41 PM Page 30 INTERNSHIPS

Communications major prepares for career with several internships

Katlin Bunton ‘12 made BY MARIANNE TUCKER PUHALLA good use of the skills she learned in public relations and advertising classes at he resume of Misericordia Fiona’s Children’s Special Occasion, Misericordia University to University’s Katlin Bunton ’12 promote special trunk show events. work with high-profile includes doing event photography She also helped facilitate a clients during an internship at Cashman & Associates for a nonprofit project involving back-to-school fashion segment for a Public Relations and Special TNFL quarterback Donovan morning television news show by helping Events in Philadelphia, Pa. McNabb, writing press releases for Mitchell style student models alongside Kristin & Ness apparel company and coordinating Munro, editor-in-chief of Philadelphia a fashion segment for ABC News 6 in Style magazine. year as editor-in-chief of The Highlander, Philadelphia, Pa. And if that isn’t enough to Her work at Cashman also included a job that includes overseeing a staff of make future employers sit up and take research to match clients with media to 20 writers and four editors. Widespread notice, she is also an award-winning writer maximize public relations opportunities. flooding in the region wreaked havoc on and is editor-in-chief of The Highlander “I learned so much about myself and the very first press run of the academic student newspaper at MU. about how fast-paced the industry is,” year. The commercial newspaper that Such is the whirlwind life of Bunton, a says Bunton. “I know that I am small in prints the student newspaper was senior communications major specializing stature and have a quiet voice, but I evacuated from its offices putting in journalism and public relations. Bunton found myself working alongside some production on hold. Bunton, though, has made the most of her career major NFL stars (during an anti-bullying worked with the newspaper’s preparation at Misericordia by landing a fundraiser hosted by Eagles offensive management team to reschedule the coveted internship with Cashman & lineman Todd Herremans). I learned I printing and the issue was distributed Associates, a public relations and special needed to be assertive and confident.” shortly thereafter. events powerhouse in Philadelphia. A transfer student, Bunton soon made “Everything I’ve learned in my Cashman’s high-profile client list includes her mark after joining The Highlander communications classes and projects – PR Mitchell & Ness, the well-known maker of staff during her sophomore year. She writing, editing, social media, graphics, authentic numbered sports jerseys, the won a 2010-11 American Scholastic adhering to deadlines — absolutely prestigious Rittenhouse Hotel, Bernie Press Association first place award for made me more confident at my Robbins Fine Jewelers, Stephen Starr Outstanding Investigative Reporting internship where I was creating content Restaurants and 611 Lifestyle — the for an article she wrote regarding a for actual clients and working with real iconic Philadelphia record controversial sculpture display in the media contacts,” she says. “And my label-turned-fashion label. campus art gallery. The competition experience there has definitely shaped In preparation for The Philadelphia included entries from high schools and my understanding of the industry and Collection, the city’s own version of colleges across the country. developed further interests. I’m excited Fashion Week, Bunton used the writing She needed to call upon her about graduating because I know I’ve and graphic design skills she learned at crisis-management skills almost as soon worked hard to develop a strong Misericordia to help a Cashman client, as she returned to campus for her senior portfolio that reflects my abilities.”

WINTER 2012 29 M395x_Layout 1 2/13/12 3:41 PM Page 31

Four brothers enjoy successful careers after earning computer science degrees

ALUMNI PROFILE TheFung-A-Fat Family Legacy

STORY BY PAUL KRZYWICKI

he Fung-A-Fat family was like a lot of other Misericordia, we would not have been T hardworking Guyanese families in the 1970s and able to pursue any opportunities outside of Guyana.’’ 1980s in Georgetown, Guyana — one of the least Today, Nigel is a principal consultant economically developed countries in South America at for radiology interfaces with Siemens Healthcare in New Jersey after the time. With the economy in sharp decline due to graduating magna cum laude with a socialist-like government policies and a growing national Bachelor of Science in computer science deficit, the prospects for the next generation of Guyanese and mathematics. He also began the family legacy at Misericordia, and in its children appeared dim. computer science and mathematics The contracting economy, though, did importance. It is something that is a must majors as each brother earned B.S. not deter Mr. Rudy and Mrs. Maureen for anything that you hope to accomplish degrees with honors from the same two Fung-A-Fat, as the entrepreneurs in this world. It is also something that no academic programs. managed to establish the Queens Town one can take away from you.’’ Mark ’91 graduated summa cum laude; Garage and carve out a successful taxi Unlike soon-to-be high school Shane ’94 graduated magna cum laude; service in the nation’s capital by graduates in the United States, Nigel did and Randolph ’95 earned his degree transporting government and industry not begin to dream about pursuing a summa cum laude. Through hard work employees from one appointment to the college education until a few short and determination, the Fung-A-Fat next. At the months before the 1984 academic year brothers capitalized on the unique ‘It is much same time, — and even that was by happenstance. opportunity that was presented to them by Misericordia and the Sisters of Mercy harder to the couple The ministry of the Sisters of Mercy has also had a familial presence in Guyana for and have established strong careers learn about understood more than 100 years and has been in the burgeoning information compassion, that their tending to those most in need. When the technology industry. honesty, country’s Fung-A-Fat family developed a friendship “Like my brothers that attended MU ongoing with several Sisters of Mercy, little did before me, I had never worked on a integrity struggles they realize it would provide an computer before but I knew that I had to and respect. These could educational opportunity for their children, follow the tradition of Nigel and Mark are principles that endanger albeit a half a world away from home. and get the double major — such the “During the 70s and 80s, the political pressure,’’ says Shane, the manager of transcend time ...’ brighter and economic structure of the country database administration and data Mark Fung-A-Fat ‘91 futures did not really provide for any long-term architecture for the Massachusetts they goals of advanced education,’’ recalls Medical Society. “My educational focus envisioned for their children — Nigel, Nigel, who married his college was always to make my family proud of Mark, Randolph and Shane. sweetheart, Michele Sanguiliano ’87, who what I was able to accomplish. My “I can still remember the constant graduated with a B.S. in computer parents and siblings were always reminder from my parents,’’ says Nigel science and a minor in mathematics from supportive and the realization of Fung-A-Fat ’88, the first of the brothers to MU and is a metrics specialist with IBM. short-term and long-term goals always attend and graduate from Misericordia. “Without the support and help we kept me going.’’ “A good education is of primary received from the Sisters of Mercy and The opportunity to earn a college

30 MISERICORDIA TODAY M395x_Layout 1 2/13/12 3:41 PM Page 32 ALUMNI PROFILE

The Fung-A-Fat family returned to campus in August for Convocation. Posing for a picture in the Mary Kintz Bevevino Library, standing from left, are Nigel ‘88, Michele ‘87, Randolph ‘95, Mark ‘91 and Shane ‘94 with their mother, Maureen, seated in front of them.

degree, though, did not come without the Massachusetts Medical Society, the Religious Sisters of Mercy’s tenets of its challenges. To pay for their schooling, publishers of the New England Journal of Mercy, Service, Justice and Hospitality. Mrs. Fung-A-Fat had her sister, Evelyn Medicine, “especially during the holidays “To me, Misericordia will always mean Tai-Oy-Yong of Toronto, Canada handle when the other students would go home hope and opportunity,’’ Nigel shares. her nephews’ college finances. and I was left alone on campus. I learned “The hope my parents had was that they Already thousands of miles away from to occupy my time and stay busy. It was could provide a proper education for home, the brothers also had to learn new also good for me from a discipline their children to prepare them for any of customs and traditions. During the perspective because I learned to create life’s challenges. The opportunity holidays, they remained on campus while routines and schedules.’’ provided by the Sisters of Mercy and the rest of the study body returned home The brothers returned to campus Misericordia through four years of to be with family and friends. together in August to participate in learning and experiences helped to “Being able to attend Misericordia at Convocation, as Mark delivered the prepare me and my brothers for where the same time Shane was there definitely keynote address to the incoming we are today and where we hope to made it much easier for me,’’ says freshman class. They recollected their be tomorrow.’’ Randolph, who, as an applications system good times at MU, reintroduced “The most important thing to me engineer, is part of a team that is themselves to former professors and is Misericordia’s mission,’’ Mark responsible for the development and friends, and also toured the campus to acknowledges, readily. maintenance of an auto finance system take in the dramatic changes in the “The education is outstanding, but for Wells Fargo in Allentown, Pa. “Being landscape since Randolph graduated in quite honestly there are many top-ranked away from home was intimidating, but 1995. With increased enrollment and educational institutions in the USA. It is factor in that I was thousands of miles additional academic majors, Misericordia much harder to learn about compassion, from home and in another country and has added numerous buildings to the honesty, integrity and respect. These you can start to understand my upper and lower campuses for additional are principles that transcend time and appreciation of having a sibling close.’’ classrooms, laboratories and residence majors, and are more important than “Being away from home was very space. What pleased the Fung-A-Fats the what you know intellectually. They are difficult,’’ adds Mark, the director of most, though, was that the Misericordia more important because they shape software development and operations for mission remains true to this day through your character,’’ he adds.

WINTER 2012 31 M395x_Layout 1 2/13/12 3:41 PM Page 33 ATHLETICS

ATHLETICS

Show Cougar pride by participating in the Walkway of ChampionsChampions Misericordia invites alumni, parents, Walkway of Champions with a gift of Traditional-size lockers in faculty, staff and friends to take advantage $1,000 (payable up to four years). the women’s or men’s locker rooms are of two ways to join our team and show In addition, friends of the University available for naming with a contribution your support of the MU athletics program can sponsor a locker in the new Field of $500 while larger football lockers can – the Walkway of Champions and the House via the Locker Naming Program. be named with a donation of $800. Locker Naming Program. An inscribed plate will be affixed to the For more information about these Located at the entrance of the new sponsored locker. Gifts for both locker opportunities, please contact James Field House, participants can have their naming opportunities can be fulfilled in Bebla, director of development, at (570) name inscribed on a paver in the one to four years. 674-6740 or at [email protected].

Women’s soccer earns Men’s soccer continues first NCAA win dominance of Freedom The women’s soccer team earned its The men’s soccer team continued its first NCAA Championships victory in dominance of the Freedom Conference program history with a 1-0 win over as the Cougars claimed their third Farmingdale State in the opening round. conference title in four seasons. After The Cougars schedule featured clinching a post-season berth on the final matches against three teams that reached day of the regular season, the Cougars the NCAA Division III Final Four. MU beat knocked off top-seeded Manhattanville in Ithaca and lost in overtime to William penalty kicks in the semifinals and beat Smith. While Misericordia lost to Messiah, The resurfacing project on Anderson Field Eastern, 1-0, in the title match. was completed in early winter. FieldTurf 4-1, the Cougars were one of just four Revolution allows the field to be used by The Cougars landed three players on teams to score a goal against soccer, field hockey and lacrosse teams for the All-Freedom team, including the Falcons. practice and games in less-than-ideal weather. first-team selections Andy Bush and Dan Pinto. Bryan Kulbacki made the second Women’s soccer dominates team. Misericordia, 13-2-4, was ranked as high as 13th nationally during the regular All-Freedom Conference team season. The women’s soccer team dominated the All-Freedom Conference team with six first-team selections and the Player, Eichhorst surpasses Rookie and Coach of the Year Awards. 1,000 career points Junior forward Sam Helmstetter was Men’s basketball standout Ethan named Player of the Year, while Erin Eichhorst started his senior season off Roberts was Rookie of the Year and Mark with a bang as the senior forward went Stauffer earned the Coach of the Year. over the 1,000 point mark for his career in Helmstetter and Roberts were joined The cheerleading team sponsored a food the opening round of the 20th Annual drive in conjunction with its Eighth Annual on the first-team by Laura Roney (also Cougar Cheer and Dance Challenge and McCarthy Tire Laurel Line Tournament. team MVP), Erin McGreal, Alyssa Mocion collected nearly 2,500 non-perishable food He became the 17th men’s basketball and Kate Usher. items for local food pantries. player to reach 1,000 career points. Misericordia grad selected in American Lacrosse League draft Former Misericordia University men’s lacrosse standout Matt and is the career leader in goals with 150. He is Carey ‘06 was chosen by the Jacksonville Bullies in the inaugural second in school history with 188 career points North American Lacrosse League draft. and is fourth all-time with 38 career assists. Carey was a four-year starter at Misericordia from 2003-2006 “Matt was one of the finest players to play and was a four-time all-conference selection. lacrosse at Misericordia,” said Misericordia A two-time team MVP, he was one of the top scorers in University lacrosse head coach Jim Ricardo. University history. “This is an exciting opportunity for him He holds the school single-game scoring mark with eight goals and for our program.” Matt Carey ‘06

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MU students Kelly Pelcher ‘12, left, and Tara Coughlin ‘12, share a plate of cookies with A L-L student Joe Rader. Passportto Success BY MARIANNE TUCKER PUHALLA

It can be said that learning is a two-way Hispanic, Irish, Native American and service-learning classes instead of one.” street, but rarely is it so evident than in a Eastern European. Each lesson plan “It is most exciting to see the Lake unique service-learning project by one featured stations where they taught Lehman students smile as we work on class of Misericordia students who are geography, made arts and crafts, projects and explain things to them. I themselves learning to be teachers. discussed culture, offered a music and/or never thought we could make such a Describing their experiences as life dance component, and brought in connection,” senior Krystle Novak ‘12 changing and profound, the 14 students in culture-specific foods for the group to enthusiastically adds. the fall semester of the Teacher Education enjoy. A highlight of the semester was a “This has been the most wonderful Department’s “Methods in Life Skills” shared Thanksgiving dinner, complete opportunity and we have learned so class of Molly Vitale, Ed. D., associate with a fresh batch of cookies that the two much more than if we were just professor, have taken a huge leap into the groups baked together during the observing,” notes Carolyn Kaminski, ’12. unknown as they experienced firsthand session on Native American culture. “It has totally changed my perception of the challenges and rewards of teaching All agreed that the class profoundly what teaching is all about.” special education. In addition to their class changed their perceptions of special The smiles seemed to multiply as the work, the students met nine times during education and gave them an unexpected weeks went on. The Lake Lehman the semester with special needs students appreciation for the value and rewards of students were given a “Passport” and from the life skills class at Lake Lehman teaching students with special needs. “I earned a stamp each week that was Junior-Senior High School. can honestly say I was really apprehensive relevant to the culture they “visited.” Each week, the MU students offered an about teaching special education, but They were also required to write journal interactive social studies lesson on a now I love it,” says Shaelynn Dragon ’13. entries about their experiences. During different culture, including Italian, Asian, “We have seen these students progress the Thanksgiving dinner, a number of the so much each week and develop more Lake Lehman students placed their confidence. I can tell you, as they are Misericordia “teachers” on the list of getting more comfortable with us… we’re things they were thankful for. getting more comfortable with them — “It isn’t until they meet with the and that’s what this project is all about.” students and begin to interact with them “I initially thought that meeting that our students truly get the together once a week would be just an understanding of the wide spectrum of added academic requirement to an abilities in special education,” says Dr. already busy schedule, but now I feel that Vitale. “For many, it is their first once a week isn’t enough time for us to introduction to the great challenges and be with them,” adds Tara Coughlin ’12. equally great rewards of teaching “If there’s anything I students with a variety of disorders such could change, I would as autism and Down syndrome. We are like more hours with one of the few teaching programs that the students. That or give our students the opportunity to just have two required interact with low-incidence students with life skills such significant challenges.”

A highlight for students in the Teacher Education Life Skills project was hosting a Thanksgiving dinner with Lake Lehman students. At top left, MU student Shaelynn Dragon ‘13 shares a special moment with L-L student Michelle Chappell. L-L student Michael Wojciechowski, center, rolls dough with students, from left, Callie Whitesell ‘12, L-L student Joe Rader, Krystal Novak ‘12, L-L student Brianne Smith and graduate student Nicole Pisacino.

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Nancy Potasky Alexander 1954 Loretta Hair Hayton ’56 Sr. Rosemary Budd, RSM ’50 January 29, 2009 August 13, 2011 November 11, 2011 L Kristi Lim ’97 Jane Lambert Kilduff Delaney ’38 Mary O’Brien Callahan ’37 May 1, 2009 August 13, 2011 November 12, 2011 Helen Shehadi Oktavec ’45 Margaret McEnrue Mulhern ’45 December 3, 2010 August 15, 2011 Karen Fuhr Schrader ’01 November 16, 2011 Sr. Mary Domitilla Temprine, RSM ’46 Kathleen Dorris Reese ’50 April 8, 2011 August 16, 2011 Theresa Cullinan ’54 November 16, 2011 Sr. Mary Marjorie Downing, RSM ’61 Sr. Mary Gemma Brennan, RSM ’46 April 23, 2011 August 20, 2011 Joan Wojcik Lukach ’52 November 19, 2011 Sr. Patricia Neilson, RSM ’57 Melissa Javorski ’06 May 13, 2011 August 22, 2011 Sr. Mary Aidan Byron, RSM ’42 Beverly Bride ’63 Anne Feeney Hanahue ’38 November 23, 2011 May 25, 2011 September 4, 2011 Rosalyn Cresko ’68 Jean Munley McCoskey ’39 Mary O'Rourke Ackerman '50 November 23, 2011 May 26, 2011 September 15, 2011 Elizabeth Sloyan Hessler ’'49 Kathleen O’Donnell Dufallo ’64 Mary Butera Wine ’47 November 24, 2011 June 6, 2011 September 16, 2011 Ruth Tully Swift ’63 Leona Davis Dudascik ’70 Susan Zurinski Stolarick ’54 July 5, 2011 September 19, 2011 November 28, 2011

Deboarh Samko Pearlman ’93 Margaret Strome Donohue ’43 Karen Jachimczak Bednarski ’72 July 6, 2011 September 22, 2011 November 29, 2011

Jane Leonardo Pugh ’84 Claire Graham Paralis ’56 Linda Davis Kishbach ’95 July 8, 2011 September 27, 2011 December 3, 2011 Maureen Hannon Yegley ’85 Helene Kretchik ’43 Beverly Smith Fritzges ’47 July 11, 2011 October 1, 2011 December 4, 2011 Shirley Tetzlaff Bezek ’53 Mary Frances Carey Wright ’58 June 14, 2011 October 1, 2011 Sr. Mary Sharon Gallagher, RSM ’58 December 12, 2011 Louise Evans McGarry ’51 Sr. Mary Frances de Chantel Murray, June 22, 2011 RSM ’58 Bonnie Sutton ’82 October 7, 2011 December 16, 2011 Eleanor Chicallo Burlant ’39 June 24, 2011 Doris Ellen Cooney Turnbull ’48 Sr. Clare Marie Higgins, RSM ’73 October 9, 2011 Mary Ann Marek ’02 December 26, 2011 July 26, 2011 Ann Manganello Rached ’62 Helen Olsakowski ’58 October 17, 2011 Sr. Mary Assumpta Ferrara, RSM ’39 December 27, 2011 July 31, 2011 Mary Lou McGroarty Battin '50 October 29, 2011 Elaine Roman Makowski ’70 Leona Jones Tobin ’51 December 9, 2011 August 3, 2011 Ursula McAndrew Burke '63 Sr. Madeline Boback, OSBM ’46 November 1, 2011 Mary Kratz Galazin ’81 August 9, 2011 January 9, 2012 Margaret Kelly Costello ’67 Catherine Connor ’71 November 1, 2011 Ann Marie Dombroski Daniels ’51 August 10, 2011 January 12, 2012 Maureen Conway Peterson ’70 Sr. Mary Blanche McCann, OP ’37 November 7, 2011 August 11, 2011

Margaret Marcelonis ’51 Marlene Bobar ’67 August 13, 2011 November 7, 2011

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Economy A from page 9 happen overnight, though. An army of interested parties have been working together to build the Mother’s Members of the Bourger family gather foundation that will result in the with representatives of the Misericordia development of new businesses and community for the naming of the will contribute to growing the Love Ruth Matthews Bourger Women region’s new economy. with Children Program. As a result of the efforts of NPTI and GVTA, millions of dollars have BY MARIANNE PUHALLA been secured and invested in the form of grants and tax credits. “These dollars and efforts have The 150 in attendance included 35 Mercy 180th anniversary of Sisters of resulted in start-up companies sisters who were honored. The Sisters of introducing new ideas and new Mercy and naming of the Ruth Mercy founded Misericordia in 1924 and MU products, and more importantly, started the program in 2000. A highlight of creating good jobs,’’ says MU Matthews Bourger Women the evening was the announcement of the with Children Program noted naming of the WWC program, which President Michael A. MacDowell. recognizes the family of Ruth Matthews “Hundreds of regional college Misericordia University recognized those Bourger and the family’s trust for their students also have secured paid whose foresight founded the University and exceptional support of the program. John T. internships and gained invaluable celebrated a milestone in one of their most Bourger, and his daughters, Brenda Bourger job experience that have helped important missions with a special event, the McGinley and Blythe Bourger, also attended. them secure their futures. “Sisters Serving Sisters, Families Helping “When we were growing up there was NPTI played a significant role in Families” gala held at the Mohegan Sun at always an expectation in our family to help helping to establish EthosGen, a Pocono Downs on Dec. 3, 2011. The event others,” said Blythe. “It was also a given that biomass producing company that celebrated the180th anniversary of the education was really important. We were created an innovative way to grow Sisters of Mercy and the 10th anniversary of rewarded for earning A’s … and it was just and process C4 grass for fuel; Net its novel Women with Children Program expected that we would go to college. Driven, an Internet-support (WWC), which was formally named the Ruth Knowing that this program helps other company that drives business to Matthews Bourger Women with Children women go to college, it is a program my auto repair shops, and others. Program during the event. family is proud to support.” The GVTA Business Plan Competition has awarded almost $240,000 in seed money — which Physician assistant students begin classes in August was provided by civic-minded business leaders — and more than The College of Arts and Sciences has teaching and evaluating student and $680,000 in in-kind services in nine named Stanley J. Dudrick, M.D., as the Robert program performance. In recognition of his years to fledgling entrepreneurs. S. Anderson Endowed Chair and medical international contributions to the medical The largest regional Keystone director; Scott L. Massey, Ph.D., P.A.-C., field, Dr. Dudrick will hold the Robert S. Innovation Zone program in the founding chair, program director and Anderson Endowed Chair — the first such Commonwealth has led to more professor; and Darci Brown, P.A.-C., as director academic position offered by the University. than 300 paid internships, including of clinical education and assistant professor, Dr. Massey has 20 years of PA educational 31 from Misericordia. for the new five-year combined Bachelor of experience. He is known nationally for his MU graduate Brandi Brace ’11 Science in Medical Science and Master of strong track record of scholarship and earned her B.A. in English and Science in Physician Assistant (PA) Studies. publishing related to student learning and secondary education. NPTI Undergraduate and graduate work for faculty development, and he is also provided her an internship with Misericordia’s new PA program can be recognized for his ability to improve the Resource Media, a Kingston, completed in five years for students who certification pass rates and scores for PA Pa.-based company that harnesses enroll as freshman and complete the master’s programs. Brown formerly worked at the advantages of new media for its portion of their studies or as a post- Coordinated Health Inc., Bethlehem, Pa., clients. From fall 2009 to spring baccalaureate program in 24 months for where she assisted a team of plastic and 2010, she gained valuable incoming graduate students. orthopedic surgeons in all aspects of their experience and the opportunity to Dr. Dudrick, an eminent surgeon and practice, including at the specialty surgical network with area professionals educator, is chairman emeritus in the center, hospital and in the operating room. while earning an equally valuable Department of Surgery and director emeritus The program has been approved by the of the Program in Surgery at Saint Mary’s Pennsylvania Department of Education. The stipend for her work. “The Hospital, a Yale University affiliate in Accreditation Review Commission on internship gave me a chance to Waterbury, Conn. He also holds an Education for the Physician Assistant prove myself,’’ says Brace. “The appointment as professor of surgery in the (ARC-PA) conducted a campus visit in opportunity I was given has helped Yale University School of Medicine. October 2011. ARC-PA will review its findings prepare me for the job market by As medical director, Dr. Dudrick will ensure and will issue its decision on provisional showing that I am capable of that the curriculum meets current patient care accreditation in March. The program expects handling whatever I commit practice standards and will be active in to accept students for the fall 2012 semester. myself to.’’

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301 Lake St., Dallas, PA 18612 Founded by the Sisters of Mercy

THEARTS&MORE Alumni Box Office (570) 674-6768 | Misericordia University Box Office (570) 674-6719 On the web: www.misericordia.edu/theartsandmore

March 16 drama, and more, 7:30 p.m., Education in Luzerne County from 8 p.m., MU Box Office. After Hours with Misericordia Lemmond Theater, MU Box Office. 1893-2012 Aug. 18 The ‘V’ Spot, 906 Providence Rd., Center of Nursing History of NEPA By the Beach at Bar Anticipation, Lake Scranton, Pa., 8-11 p.m. April 17 at MU exhibit features a collection Como, N.J. Alumni Box Office Carl Bernstein: Dr. Midori of artifacts that documents history Join alumni for a bbq, live entertainment, Yamanouchi Lecture Series of nursing in region. Opening contests, drink specials and a gift from your March 17-31 Noted journalist, author Carl Bernstein reception: Sunday, May 6, 1-4 p.m. alma mater; $10 per person, Alumni Box Office. Student Art Exhibition: Mixed presents, His Holiness, John Paul II. Media, Friedman Art Gallery Program features VIP presentation at May 31-June 3 Oct. 4-13 Fine Arts faculty exhibit, 6 p.m., lecture followed by Q&A at 7 Alumni Weekend Cruise Mediterrean with alumni, friends MacDonald Art Gallery p.m.; book signing, 8:30 p.m. Meet, greet and reminisce. Enjoy a Spend first day touring and an overnight stay MU Box Office. cookout, tours, Alumni Mass, March 29-31 in Barcelona, Spain, followed by 7 days of workshops, games. Call the Alumni cruising. Ports include Provence and Cannes, Misericordia Players Theater: April 19 Box Office for more information or The Laramie Project Ensemble Evening: Dance register at France; Florence, Pisa, Rome, Naples and 8 p.m., Lemmond Theater; $5, adults; Dance students perform in a variety cougarconnect.misericordia.edu. Capri, Italy. $2,389 (inside cabin), includes $3, students/senior citizens. of styles, 7:30 p.m., Lemmond Theater. air, transfers, all transportation, taxes. MU Box Office MU Box Office. June 17-21 $250 deposit by April 16. Call Val Brezanski at Tucker Travel Agency at (570) 823-4100 March 31 Diversity Camp April 21 Diversity Institute hosts a 5-day, 4-night or [email protected]. Easter Egg Hunt and Brunch with NEPA Wine Country Tour the Easter Bunny diversity camp for high school students Enjoy an informative excursion to the entering 11-12 grades. Call Diversity Brunch: 10 or 11:15 a.m., Banks region’s vineyards for $50. Includes bus, Trips with Distinction Student Life Center. Egg hunt: 11 a.m., Institute at (570) 674-1483 for an wine and food tastings at 5 wineries, application. Misericordia.edu/diversity. Sept. 2-12 rain or shine. Reservations required. afternoon meal at Twigs, 11 a.m.- 7 Russian River Cruise—Moscow to St. $10, adults; $5, 5-12 years; under 5 free. p.m., Alumni Box Office. July 9 & 27 Petersburg on the MS Furmanov with a Alumni Box Office Newark, N.J., departure. April 25 Under the Stars Summer Arts Festival April 9-29 Ensemble Evening: Music Nov. 29-Dec. 7 Nina Davidowitz & Skip Sensbach: Jazz band, wind ensemble, chamber July 9 Christmas on the Danube featuring a Essence of Form singers and Beyond Harmony, 7:30 6-night Danube River Cruise on the MS Pauly Friedman Art Gallery: Recent Jazz in July: Midiri Brothers Septet p.m., Lemmond Theater, Amadeus Royal or Diamond. Depart from paintings, clay and wood on exhibit. Enjoy the sounds of the Swing Era at MU Box Office. Newark, N.J. MacDonald Art Gallery: An installation Wells Fargo Amphitheater, 8 p.m., MU by Leigh Pawling. The opening April 27 Box Office. reception scheduled for Saturday, April After Hours with Misericordia FOR INFO OR RESERVATIONS, CONTACT: 14, 5-8 p.m. Lucky’s Sporthouse, 110 Schechter Dr., July 27 Dr. Noël Keller, RSM, Th.D., Tour Director W-B Twp., 8-11 p.m. Alumni Box Office Starlight Concert: Neil Sedaka April 12 Singer-song writer’s career spans more Center for Adult and Continuing Education Journey Through the Arts May 6-June 29 than 50 years of hits and millions of (570) 674-6776, (570) 674-6924 or Students’ achievements in music, The History & Impact of Nursing records sold; Wells Fargo Amphitheater, [email protected] M398_Layout 1 2/13/12 2:35 PM Page 2

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Freshman class introduced to University’s charisms during inaugural Orientation Day of Service The Misericordia Way STORY BY PAUL KRZYWICKI The importance of volunteerism cannot 369 members of the freshman class by volunteers, it would have been difficult to be overstated. It fills a void in the social having them give back to the have this work done,’’ Sherlene Long, fabric for underserved people, while it communities, people and nonprofits in the director of the Dallas Senior Center, also teaches values and builds character area. “It was an incredible opportunity for comments as she watches MU students in those who participate. It comes in so our students to get to know the area they clean out debris-filled gutters, cut grass many forms that people of all ages and now call home,’’ says Kristen Mitchell and use a power washer to clean the from all walks of life can give back to Samuels, M.S.W., community outreach building’s vinyl siding. “I love to see the humankind or to their communities in coordinator at MU. “I was so impressed younger people volunteer like this. From some fashion or another. by the feedback. The students were the bottom of my heart, thank you.’’ Consider the 19th century Lands at incredibly positive and open to the Between light showers and overcast Hillside Farms in Kingston Township, Pa., experiences and many have come skies, Jenny Borton ‘15, pulled weeds for example. Without the efforts of through the office asking about how they and cleared brush around the landscape countless volunteers and organizations, can participate in more service activities.’’ of the Dallas Senior Center. “I think the this valuable nonprofit organization Overall, more than 500 members of the service opportunity is good. I enjoy it nestled among the historic back country campus fanned out across eight locations because I like helping people,’’ she says. roads and picturesque creeks of the Back in the community to offer their time and Inside a historic greenhouse, 37 MU Mountain would not be able to offer talent. Teams repaired flood-damaged volunteers loosen and scoop up aged dirt important educational programs to sections of the Back Mountain Trail; that has been used over the years for regional children and residents. planted trees and erected fence posts at flowers and vegetables at The Lands at “We wouldn’t exist,’’ Guy Kroll, director Blue Chip Farms; prepared Camp Hillside Farms. With the soil removed, of events and volunteers at The Lands at Orchard Hill for the season; planted 450 the volunteers haul in fresh dirt for Hillside Farms, says frankly. “We would seedlings at Francis Slocum State Park; new plantings. never be able to afford the labor to keep prepared a greenhouse for another “I’ve done a lot of community service,’’ the place going. Volunteers are the planting season at the Lands at Hillside acknowledges Jenna Reel ‘15, “but this is backbone of the organization.’’ Farms; befriended residents at Mercy different than anything I’ve ever done. It’s Misericordia’s inaugural Orientation Day Center; became wheelchair transports at a good experience. We get to know more of Service on Saturday, Aug. 27 sought to the Meadows Nursing Center; and of the area and get to know more people create a sense of community among the conducted detailed landscaping work at in our class. It helps to stay involved a lot the Dallas Senior Center. because you are going to have to know The myriad of work also has left a the community and because a lot of lasting impression on the volunteers and students would probably stop with on those it benefitted most. “Without the community service.’’

More than 500 members of the campus community volunteered at Mercy Center, the Back Mountain Trail, Meadows Nursing Center, Francis Slocum State Park, The Lands at Hillside Farms, Blue Chip Farms, Camp Orchard Hill and the Dallas Senior Center.

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Students, faculty and staff help to relocate Holy Rosary Grade School after flood waters damage school Back Schoolto STORY BY PAUL KRZYWICKI

For a few hours on a late summer classroom, scores of volunteers packed three flights of stairs so teachers could put morning, Misericordia University students the contents of the three-story school their classrooms back in order. The heavy went back to grade school. They weren’t into bags and boxes, and hauled them lifting, seasonable weather and formerly there to refine their basic skills in and desks for more than 200 students to moth-balled school made it a challenging mathematics or reading, but rather to Avoca so classes could resume Monday, endeavor, but the spirit of community was assist a school community relocate its Sept. 19. It will be some time before Holy alive throughout the move. classrooms after regional flooding Rosary reopens as the flood waters “It was tough work, but it feels good,’’ destroyed the lower level of Holy Rosary destroyed the furnace, as well as the acknowledges Colleen Noga ’14, an OT Grade School in Duryea, Pa. lower-level library, cafeteria, and art and major. “It’s time and it’s hard work, but The damp stench of the Lackawanna music rooms. it’s worth it. The atmosphere of River still lingered in the lower level of the As Holy Rosary Grade School everybody being together is great.’’ Diocese of Scranton school when 15 kindergarten teacher Nancy Rafferty Kristen Egbert ’11, bypassed an students, faculty and staff from worked feverishly with other teachers to opportunity to go home and spend time Misericordia arrived on Friday, Sept. 16 to get their classrooms back in order in a with her family and friends for her move school supplies piece-by-piece to new school and in a different town, they birthday weekend. The daughter of Brian the former St. Mary’s School in Avoca, Pa. heard the pace of the work pick up. More and Lynda Egbert thought it was more “Misericordia asked for volunteers and volunteers had arrived in Avoca to unload appropriate to help flood victims. they (Holy Rosary) really needed them,’’ the trucks filled with school supplies. “When I got the e-mail, I thought this says Debbie Keys ‘15. “I knew I really “It’s overwhelming to see the response would be a better way to spend my wanted to do it. I knew there was no of people we don’t even know,’’ says birthday and help people here,’’ says other way I wanted to spend my Friday. Rafferty, a kindergarten teacher at Holy Egbert, who also aided cleanup efforts in “Whether you’ve been affected by the Rosary. “It’s comforting to know that Noxen, Pa., later in the evening. “I love it flooding or not, it’s very important to people care and they are there for you. (the camaraderie). I think these guys help. It’s crazy thinking about this The support has been great. God has us (members of the Holy Cross and Holy happening at Misericordia. We’ve had an here for a reason and we have to carry Redeemer football teams) were great earthquake, a hurricane and a flood. out the mission.’’ with the singing. I live in New Jersey, Knowing it’s so close to Misericordia Starting in the parking lot, volunteers so meeting new people out here is a really brings it into perspective. It’s a unloaded the trucks as they arrived and lot different. I’m glad I decided to get scary situation,’’ adds Keys. formed a bucket brigade to pass books, up and do it and not stay in my room Grade-by-grade, classroom-by- chairs and desks up one, two and then all morning.’’

Regional print and broadcast news outlets documented scores of volunteers relocating the school, including Kristen Egbert ‘11, far right, and other MU students, staff and faculty, at right.

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Men’s lacrosse team helps 2 families recover from flooding’s aftereffects The definitionof TEAM STORY BY PAUL KRZYWICKI have a big heart to do this and help your neighbors when you don’t even know them. James Ricardo, the head coach of the I feel fortunate compared to other people.’’ men’s lacrosse team, can empathize with Ricardo also was counting his blessings fellow residents of Northeastern that afternoon as well after he spent a few Pennsylvania as they face the uncertainties sleepless evenings the week before worrying and worries that accompany flooding and about his mother and the family home in the long road to recovery. Binghamton that also was affected by record As he stood beside a modest flooding. At one point, Ricardo received a Susquehanna Avenue home in Exeter, he phone call from a family friend to let him gave approving glances and nods to his know his mother did not want to leave her players as they lugged cinderblocks and house. After a phone call and a little scooped up debris from the basement of the nudging by her son, Mrs. Tina Ricardo home and wheeled them to the banks of the agreed to evacuate the house. Susquehanna River. “It shows the “It was tough knowing that she was alone commitment they have not only to the team, in Binghamton and I was here,’’ says but also to the school,’’ the Binghamton, Ricardo, a husband and father of two. “My N.Y., native and Dallas Township resident childhood home sustained a lot of flood says quietly. “It demonstrates that they damage, but my main concern was my understand what Misericordia is all about.’’ mother. Thankfully, she is alright.’’ Ricardo and his entire team — 41 For the lacrosse team, the cleanup sites members strong — volunteered for cleanup offered different, but rewarding challenges. duty in Exeter and on Park Street in West At the Lynch family home, the team Pittston on a sunny Saturday, Sept. 17 after concentrated its efforts on removing debris receiving the call for assistance from from the once partially finished basement. Campus Ministry. A few days after he made Players removed belongings from a shed in his appeal to the players, they gathered the rear of Mrs. Lynch’s father’s home. behind the Anderson Sports and Health “When I heard they needed volunteers, I Center to form a caravan to travel from didn’t even think about it,’’ says Nick Kestler campus to the Greater Pittston area. ’14. “We just want to help because it’s just “Coach said everyone got hit hard,’’ says awful what these people are going through. Jack Stang ’14. “We have a house in Ocean We are trying to make a little difference and City, Md., and we got hit pretty hard with make their lives better.’’ the first hurricane. I thought it would be In West Pittston, the players were starting good to come down and help out. It’s from scratch. The owners of 50 Park St. live definitely a feel-good kind of situation with in Allentown, Pa., and began their own everyone here. It’s positive all around.’’ cleanup efforts when the team arrived. That exuberance also rubbed off on the Piece-by-piece, all the damaged remnants of Lynch family, as they directed volunteers to the basement were removed and placed various projects around their property and curbside to be hauled away to a landfill. then two doors down to the home of Mrs. “We completely moved everything out of Under the direction of coaches Jim Cindy Lynch’s father. “I feel fortunate,’’ the basement,’’ Ricardo says, “which had Ricardo and Vincent Redko, every comments Mr. Greg Lynch, as he looks over tons of mud, water and who knows what member of the team volunteered his mud-encrusted tools in the garage. “I’m else. It was a real experience for my young for recovery efforts. overwhelmed with this help. You have to men to say the least.’’

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Students assist devastated riverside community recover from historic flood Irene and Lee leave A Lasting Impression

When a collection of Misericordia STORY BY JULIA N. TRUAX ‘12 Misericordia holds the tenet of Service University volunteers descended upon highly, as do its students. For them, Myo Beach in Wyoming County, Pa., on eyes scanned over the damage. “This is helping others is a major part of their an unusually cold and muggy Saturday better than it was, but some of the college experiences and daily lives. “I like morning days into the fall semester, they houses are completely gone.” helping people,” acknowledges Hassick, had no idea what to expect. They had Stark contacted Campus Ministry who is also actively involved with Campus heard and seen pictures of the untold hoping they could organize a group of Ministry. “I don’t know how students can devastation this quaint, riverside students to help the displaced Myo say there’s nothing to do on the weekends community experienced when the Beach residents, many of whom are at Misericordia. Look around you, there swollen Susquehanna River left its natural elderly and physically incapable of are people in need of your help.” banks due to the one-two punch of completing the tasks of shoveling Amanda Peslak ’14, also urges others Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee. through debris or moving heavy timber, to give of their time to those in need. “I More than 30 miles from campus, the appliances, telephone poles and piles of like to help, too,” she says. “I wish more remnants of this idyllic community were mud away from their properties. people would do the same.” scattered into disarray. Homes were torn “I didn’t even know where to begin,” Peslak has completed multiple terms as from their foundations; park benches and Stark adds. a Scholar in Service to Pennsylvania with toys were clinging to tree branches; and MU student volunteers, Ryan Hassick the national service organization mud-caked automobiles sat motionless ‘13, Jim Miller ‘14, Matt Leighow ’11 and AmeriCorps. She is now serving as a — perhaps for good. Andrew Casanova ‘14, spent the morning Community Fellow at MU. She says there Randy Stark, an adjunct business and early afternoon carrying heavy is a constant need in the community, and professor, grew up in the close-knit appliances out of the homes and moving as young, able-bodied students, it’s up to community in Meshoppen, Pa. His larger branches and debris towards the them to provide the extra help. “If I was in parents, Rick and Holly Stark, were one of rapidly growing bon fire, while female this situation, I wouldn’t know what to do. the dozens of families that had many, if volunteers shoveled and raked the lighter I know I’d appreciate the extra help and not all, of their worldly possessions rubbish aside and sifted through the ruins I’m glad to provide it,” she adds. “The destroyed. “These houses were hoping to salvage personal effects. fact that we’re giving up our one Saturday completely underwater,” says Stark, as his Students occasionally consoled to help I’m sure makes a difference.” distraught residents as they stood by and Miller says the light flooding damage helplessly watched as their material lives Misericordia experienced on Lake Street were thrown onto the flames. The group is nothing compared to the extensive of students tried to brighten spirits by damage that impacted area communities. asking residents about their positive “We were upset and inconvenienced experiences of summer traditions, such for 24 hours,’’ he says. “These people as rafting down the river and hosting have been out of a home for at least community pig roasts and barbecues. three weeks.”

Myo Beach sustained heavy damage from floodwaters. A team of MU students, top right, and at left, Ryan Hassick ‘13 and Matt Leighow ‘11, helped residents piece their lives back together.

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Student Johnna Miller ‘15, ‘16, bottom right, carries a flood-damaged countertop with Emily Kudlacik ‘15, while above fellow students, from left, Kelly Studwell ‘16, Jesi Swoboda ‘14 and Maria Weidemoyer ‘16 begin removing debris from the basement.

Students answer the call of ANeighbor inDistress STORY BY PAUL KRZYWICKI

Josephine Mudcik, 87, knows the after the cleanup operation. “I used to do hours and it was two cellars that they history of the city of Wilkes-Barre, Pa., that kind of stuff, but I have a pacemaker really worked on.’’ intimately. For 82 years, she’s lived at and I’m a diabetic and I have other The Misericordia University campus 22 W. Beatty St., in the Parsons section problems, too. community assisted regional residents of the city and has never experienced “I was really, really surprised how with recovery efforts. Teams of volunteers flood damage to her childhood and hard they worked,’’ she adds during a traveled to Wyoming County to work in adult homestead. phone interview. Meshoppen, Tunkhannock and Noxen, As a child, she saw the damage and Misericordia University student Jim and also helped residents and other devastation wrought by flooding in 1936 Miller ’14 of Ashland, Pa., surveyed the volunteers in Avoca, Duryea, Exeter, West and as an adult she experienced Tropical damage prior to everyone’s arrival and Pittston and other communities. Storm Agnes in 1972. Subsequent high- secured crow bars, hammers and other “I felt good about helping the elderly water events also failed to affect the necessary tools from Wyoming Valley woman because there was no way she home she grew up in and then raised her Habitat for Humanity. A longtime would have been able to perform the niece in with her late husband, Nicholas. volunteer firefighter with the Washington work herself,’’ says Miller. “I am an That was until Tropical Storm Lee arrived and Fountain Springs Fire Departments occupational therapy major because in September 2011. in his hometown and with the Dallas Fire I enjoy helping others. I see this in most The heavy rainfall and record-setting and Ambulance Department, the son of of the health science majors, as they Susquehanna River level caused sewer John and Ann Marie Miller also are often seen volunteering at lines to back up and seep into her volunteered at Myo Beach and at different events.’’ basement, and rainwater from nearby evacuation shelters and with pumping “I decided to volunteer my time and Hollenback Park to pond and eventually details around the Dallas area. help because Wilkes-Barre was greatly flow through the windows of her finished For this operation, Conor Brennan ‘15, affected by the flooding and I wanted to basement. By the time the river crested Stockholm, N.J.; Emily Kudlacik ‘15, help as much as I could because it is what and the rain had stopped, Mudcik’s Parsippany, N.J.; Johnna Miller ‘15, ‘16, I enjoy doing,’’ adds Kudlacik, a nursing basement had accumulated about four Wapwallopen, Pa.; Kelly Studwell ‘16, major. “Helping others in need is a very feet of foul-smelling water. Glen Gardner, N.J.; Jesi Swoboda ‘14, satisfying feeling because you are making Single and a month shy of her 87th Price, Texas; Maria Weidemoyer ‘16, a person’s life better. I also enjoy birthday, Mudcik knew that her health Perkiomenville, Pa.; and Miller tore down interacting with the person I am helping and age would not allow her to cleanup drywall and removed a raised floor because it feels even better to get to from the flood’s aftermath. After and cabinetry. know them and know how grateful and receiving some assistance from “I was very shocked that these girls appreciative they are. neighbors, she placed a call to could do all that work and the two “I would definitely recommend Misericordia University’s Campus gentlemen were terrific,’’ says Mudcik. volunteering to others because it gets Ministry office. “I was thinking to myself, ‘what are these you involved with different communities “I am very grateful because I couldn’t little ones going to do with crowbars.’ and makes you feel like a better person,’’ do anything,’’ says Mudcik, a few days They had all this down in two to three Kudlacik says.

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Campus Ministry spearheads a yearlong service project in Noxen Adopting aCommunity in Need

Misericordia University student Chelsea Mixon ‘12, left and below right, poses for a picture with food pantry co-chairs Margaret Holmgren and Pearl STORY BY Race, and Rev. Linda Bryan. MARIANNE TUCKER PUHALLA

Fueled by a desire to make a difference stock the shelves and assists a team of Sigma Tau Delta Chapter, the international in the region, Campus Ministry has church volunteers that helps the families English Honor Society, held a book drive in organized a yearlong community outreach select their monthly allotment. The adults the fall and donated a portion of the program to assist those in need in nearby couldn’t be more thrilled by her help, books to the flood-damaged library. Noxen, Pa. About 11 miles from campus, which often means making more than 30 Mixon says the student outreach in the the community has a significantly lower trips up and down the flight of stairs to the Noxen community will continue income level compared to the national basement facility, carrying cartons of throughout the spring semester. She says average and has a higher percentage of canned goods and supplies. “She is such her goals include continuing efforts at the residents and families living near or below an amazing help to us,” says Pearl Race, a food pantry, and increasing the level of the poverty level, according to 2000 U.S. retired nurse who formalized the operation help at the library and clothing bank. Census data. of the food pantry in 2007. “Chelsea is According to the 2000 U.S. census, the Community services in the small, rural vibrant, ambitious and responsible. If there median income for a family in Noxen community of about 1,630 residents were is something that needs to be done, you Township was $35,833, compared to stretched in 2011 by government budget can count on her to do it.” $50,046 in the U.S. The per capita income cuts and severely damaged infrastructure Mixon also assists Pastor Bryan on visits for the township was $14,488, compared that was caused by flooding from to elderly residents of the region who are to $21,587 nationally. In the community, Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee. homebound, and is coordinating 13.8 percent live below the poverty line, Student volunteers are providing assistance from MU students in the health compared to 9.20 percent in the nation. assistance to a variety of organizations science majors, such as physical therapy, The rate of individuals in the community and populations in Noxen. Spearheading occupational therapy, nursing and who live below the poverty line is 17.1 the effort is Chelsea Mixon ‘12, a social speech-language pathology, as needed. percent, compared to the U.S. rate of work major, who has undertaken the Under Mixon’s direction, Misericordia 12.4 percent. project as part of an internship with the volunteers are also helping to organize Donations to the Noxen project are Social Work Department. and sort clothing weekly at the welcome and can be made by contacting When the heavy rainstorms struck community’s Clothes Closet, a clothing Campus Ministry at Misericordia back-to-back just weeks into the fall bank set up by a local community University at (570) 674-6495. semester, Mixon immediately stepped development group. A group of students into action and helped coordinate recently delivered a van full of clothing to student cleanup efforts at dozens of the Clothes Closet as a part of its efforts. homes in the community. “Chelsea was a Misericordia students Sarah Munley God-send during the flooding,” says Rev. ‘13, an early childhood and special Linda Bryan, pastor of the Noxen United education major from Vernon, N.J., and Methodist Church. “If it wasn’t for her Alina Busch ‘14, a social work major from helping bring student volunteers to our Waldorf, Md., are also offering an after- area, people would still be trying to clean school tutoring program for grades 3 out their houses.” through 6 at the Lake Noxen Elementary Mixon is also helping Pastor Bryan staff School. The tutoring sessions are helping the Food Pantry, where about 80 families dozens of local children. in the region are served each month. The Noxen Library was also on the During her weekly visits, Mixon helps to receiving end of the students’ efforts. The

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In Tune With Nature Students learn about sustainability of life on fall break service trip

STORY BY SHANNON KOWALSKI ‘12 and participating in an ecumenical certificate of appreciation on behalf of harvest moon festival where we New Dawn. That was the most satisfying experienced Buddhist chanting, Native moment of the trip. I have to admit I was excited when I American singing, a night hike and a A fall break service trip seemed almost first heard the Fall Break Service Trip drum circle. natural to me. While most other students being offered by Campus Ministry was to Throughout our time with Sister were returning home to see family and an organic farm. Most of the trips offered Denise, we accomplished many things for friends, I looked forward to getting away through Campus Ministry focus on the center. Six saplings were relocated, and offering a hand to someone who humanity-based social justice issues, such the herb garden was weeded and cut needed it. I believe that service is a two- as the rights and dignity of the human back, crops were planted, plant beds fold experience that not only benefits person, the dignity of work, or the were cleared, a deck was stained, and the those receiving the service, but those who preferential option for the poor and trail system was cleared and maintained. are giving it as well. Based on past service vulnerable. But the Sisters of Mercy, the In addition to all our physical labor, we experiences, I knew this trip would be founders and sponsors of Misericordia also learned about the economical energizing and fulfilling, and I knew that’s University, also see the care of the earth benefits of buying goods that are locally just what I needed to kick off my senior as a critical concern, and work to produced. We ate organic meals and got year. For so much of my Misericordia reverence it and create a sustainable a taste of vegetarian cooking with education, service has been the catalyst environment for us to live. vegetables that we had handpicked. that prompted me to step outside myself The New Dawn Earth Center is also The morning we were scheduled to and do bigger and better things for myself sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy. It leave was certainly bittersweet. We had and for others. It was almost second takes the best of both worlds by all forged bonds with Sister Denise and nature to sign up for such a trip. combining education and physical labor members of the staff at New Dawn — Overall, the fall break trip allowed all of to teach the importance and correlation and especially with one another. I think I us to take some time from an already of mankind to the environment. This trip can speak on behalf of the whole group crazy semester to refocus on what is surely promised to be unlike any other when I say the entire trip was extremely important. We learned a lot about the offered by the University and I think that rewarding. It was gratifying to see the environment and about each other. We is why it had such a draw. physical differences we made on the farm forged new friendships while Sister Denise Truscott, RSM, the and to see immediate results and exemplifying Misericordia’s charisms of director of the center in Cumberland, R.I., improvements. It was rewarding to know mercy and service. What better way to had a lengthy and extensive list of tasks that we were doing our part, though spend fall break! we were expected to accomplish small as it may be, to tend to the earth throughout our four days with her. We and care for God’s creations. While some had 11 students and two chaperones to of our tasks may have seemed trivial, they split the work assigned to us. As we were things that needed to be done for found out, the old saying, “many hands the sisters and would have fell by the make light work,” is true. Each day, we wayside had we not helped. When it blazed through our tasks and found time came time to say our final goodbyes, for some extracurricular activities, such as Sister Denise presented each of us with a hayride, a stop at the ice cream stand our own homemade and personalized

Students, top left, Shannon Kowalski ‘12, Sarah West, ‘14 and Rachel Brooks ‘13, take a break from working, while classmate Mark Werger ‘12, right, clears brush. At bottom right, students pose for a picture in Campus Ministry before departing.