The Magazine of Point Park University | FALL 2016

POINTTHE

MEDIA CONVERGENCE Investigative journalist Andrew Conte leads collaboration in new Center for Media Innovation has already begun to reshape and revitalize our academic programs. For example, since Point Park’s Downtown community – the the University’s founding, Point Park has new Center for Media Innovation. Situated at developed strong relationships with local the corner of Wood Street and Third Avenue businesses and organizations by educating in the heart of our Downtown campus, this students in career-focused programs taught state-of-the-art incubator and collaborative by faculty who work in their fields. In turn, space enables Point Park students from companies have found success working across the University to work with the latest with our Career Development Center to technology alongside experienced journalists recruit skilled interns and employees. 16 and media professionals. OF Strengthening this important connection TABLE CONTENTS The opening of the Center brought the between educating students and preparing 3 News and Views 24 Alumni Connection University community together with many the future workforce, Point Park has

of these industry leaders for a daylong established a new cooperative education 13 Building a Bridge 25 Class Notes celebration that included opportunities to program, or co-op, for our School of Business A grant from The explore new media technology and enjoy undergraduate students. We look forward to Foundation will fund a pilot 18 30 Walking on Air panel discussions, entertainment, special sharing more details about this new co-op program to help at-risk high Broadcaster Fred McLeod presentations and much more. We invite program, as well as many other innovative school students make a has journeyed from Pioneer successful transition Dear alumni and friends, all of our alumni and friends to visit this projects, in the months to come. Baseball to the Cleveland to college. exciting new media crossroads to take a Cavaliers’ 2016 NBA Back to school season at Point Park is look inside and enjoy one of the many At Point Park, collaboration and innovation 14 Now Playing championship. one of my favorite times of the year. Our educational events and exhibits that are are always in season. On your next visit to The 2016-2017 season at the Pittsburgh neighborhood is filled with the open to the public. Visit page 18 to learn , we hope you’ll stop by features energy that our students and families bring all about the Center and see a schedule our dynamic urban campus and experience 30 big musicals, classics and TALK TO US! with them as they arrive in, or return to, our of upcoming activities. the energy and excitement for yourself. The Point wants to hear from you. Send contemporary works of theatre your comments and suggestions to: urban campus. and dance. The spirit of collaboration is alive and well Warm regards, Managing Editor The energy and excitement was especially 16 A New Stage Emerges Marketing and Communications at Point Park. You can see it not only in the Point Park University strong on Sept. 13, the day we celebrated new Center for Media Innovation, but across Construction of the new 201 Wood Street the grand opening of the latest project that the entire University and throughout all of Pittsburgh Playhouse is well Pittsburgh, PA 15222 underway between Forbes The Magazine of Point Park University | FALL 2016 Phone: 412-392-6108 Fax: 412-392-6185 ON THE COVER: and Fourth avenues in Investigative journalist Email: [email protected]

Dr. Paul Hennigan THE POINT Andrew Conte, director Downtown Pittsburgh. President of the Center for Media Innovation, outside the 18 Media Convergence new collaborative space at Wood Street and Third The Center for Media Innovation Avenue in the heart of opened with a celebration on

MEDIA CONVERGENCE Point Park’s Downtown Sept. 13, bringing media Investigative journalist Andrew Conte leads collaboration in new Center campus. Photo by for Media Innovation Christopher Rolinson. professionals, Pittsburgh leaders and the campus community together in a new space for President Managing Director, Graphic Designer Web Services Manager Photographers collaboration. Paul Hennigan, Ed.D. Communications and Judy Sporka Stephen Shanahan John Altdorfer Client Services Richard Kelly The Point is published by the Department of Marketing and Communications, Point Park University, 201 Wood Street Pittsburgh, PA 15222. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy Vice President of Nancy Commella Manager of Printing Writers of published information. Please visit our web site at www.pointpark.edu for current information regarding University programs, departments, alumni activities and events. Shayna Mendez External Affairs Services Amanda Dabbs Christopher Rolinson Nondiscrimination, Equal Opportunity and Diversity Initiatives Mariann Geyer Managing Director, Don Pastorius Gina Puppo This policy affirms Point Park University’s commitment to nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and the pursuit of diversity. Point Park University does not discriminate on the basis of: sex, race, ethnicity, religion, color, national origin, age (40 years and over), ancestry, individuals with disabilities, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, height, weight, genetic information, marital status, University Marketing and Kevin Taylor caregiver status or familial status, in the administration of any of its educational programs, activities or with respect to employment or admission to the University’s educational programs and activities. Director of Onlne Managing Editor Public Relations Barbara Vilanova Communications This policy is in accord with local, state and federal laws, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section Cheryl Valyo Lou Corsaro 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Age Discrimination Act of 1975 and the Pittsburgh Human Relations Act. Inquiries regarding these regulations and policies, or Keith Kuzmovich complaints of discrimination, should be referred to the vice president of human resources, phone number 412-392-3952. Inquiries regarding Title IX and the Title IX regulations should also be referred to the Title IX coordinator or to the deputy Title IX coordinators: the associate provost, the vice president of human resources or the vice president of student affairs.

POINTPARK.EDU 1 FEEDBACK NEWS AND VIEWS

Lasting Influence dent of Dr. Firestone, I was not surprised successes throughout my early and Professional Advancement the 2016 Strategic Horizons Network Annual Accounting Career Awareness at the accolades bestowed upon him by present career. The students of Point Conference for Community College Program (ACAP) at Point Park last sum- I received my 2016 Spring issue of The the Supreme Court. He Park University are most fortunate to George (Fritz) Kiersch has been Presidents. Talbott’s June 13 presen- mer. Twenty-two students from 16 high Point and read the article on Nathan was always held in the highest regard by have access to his knowledge. Best appointed assistant vice president in tation at the Renaissance Pittsburgh schools spent the week on campus for Firestone J.D., professor of political his students and fellow faculty members. wishes to all alumni, all current students, the Office of the Provost. According to Hotel was titled “Essentials for Commu- the program. “The students were highly science [recently named vice chair of I certainly wish him well, and continued and those [who] graduated this year. Provost John Pearson, Ph.D., “Fritz will nity Engagement Programming.” In addi- engaged from start to finish and the Pennsylvania’s Minor Judiciary Education success and good health. He taught us be an invaluable asset in our work to tion, the segment included a workshop workshops were the most interactive Board]. As an alumnus, and former stu- so much, and was responsible for my John C. Huckestein (A&S 1972) make and maintain nationally distinctive facilitated by Kendra Ross, who is a between students and presenters since Hollywood, Fla. academic programs that attract students Ph.D. in community engagement student inception of the program,” said Scott, and provide opportunities to students and at Point Park and graduate assistant. The who began ACAP in 2013. Part of the faculty to advance in their disciplines.” presentation and workshop culminated National Association of Black Accoun- Kiersch comes to Point Park from Okla- with a question and answer session with tants, Inc., ACAP’s goal is to increase homa City University, where he served ideas for program development, commu- understanding among high school as a member of the faculty, an artist-in- nity engagement and social innovation. students in underrepresented minority residence, and a chair of the Department groups about accounting and its career of Moving Images Arts. The founder of Jason Varnish, a part-time faculty mem- opportunities. The students traveled to a number of undergraduate and gradu- ber in the Sports, Arts and Entertainment public accounting firms Ernst & Young ate interdisciplinary degree programs Management program, made it possible and Sisterson & Co. LLP to see what it’s related to moving image production and for seven SAEM students and alumni to like to work in the field. The students also studies, Kiersch has had a long career as work in VIP services, production running visited Massaro Construction and heard producer and director of theatrical and and floor seating at Beyoncé’sThe Forma- presentations from accounting, finance television full-length feature films. “With tion World Tour May 31 at in and business professionals from KPMG, [his] focus on student learning, extensive Pittsburgh. “My Box Office Management Maher Duessel, the National Association professional experience as both an artist course, taught by Jason Varnish, and my of Black Accountants Pittsburgh Chapter, and a person engaged in the business Business of Concert Production and PNC, Schneider Downs, Tyler Collier and of art, track record of success in academ- Touring class, taught by Ed Traversari, Associates LLC, UPMC and more. ic program development, clear under- really prepared me for this event,” said standing and appreciation for the work Nicolette Jones. “We had a great time! Brent Robbins, Ph.D., associate pro- of the faculty, and strong desire to help It was a fantastic experience to work on fessor of psychology and chair of the us strive for academic excellence, he will such a high profile tour. It was all thanks Department of Humanities and Human be a wonderful addition to Point Park,” to part-time SAEM faculty member Sciences, served as guest editor and said Pearson. Jason Varnish, who had a contact with writer for a special issue of the Journal of the production team,” remarked Ashley Humanistic Psychology, which focused on Jessica McCort, Ph.D., assistant profes- Dobransky, SAEM alumna, M.B.A. “Community Psychology and the Herme- sor of composition and rhetoric and coor- student and assistant to the chair of the neutics of Love.” The May 2016 issue dinator of the writing intensive program, Department of Management in the Uni- also featured articles written by Robert served as editor of the recently published versity’s School of Business. Varnish is McInerney, Ph.D., associate professor of book Reading in the Dark: Horror in Chil- also owner/consultant of BOM Advisers, psychology, and Rachael Goss, part-time dren’s Literature and Culture. Published a box office management company of psychology instructor. “This is a very im- by the University Press of Mississippi, managers, supervisors and event staff portant issue for us because the concept McCort’s book explores the intersec- whose expertise in event management of a ‘hermeneutics of love’ as the basis On the Move residence halls in Downtown Pittsburgh. allows faculty, staff and student leaders tion between horror, popular culture and includes ticketing as well as operations, for clinical and community psychology is Each year in late August, dozens of “The University community is responsible the chance to participate in an exciting children’s cultural productions, including marketing and social media. a major philosophical foundation for our student leaders, faculty and staff join to- for doing all of the “moving in” for our University-wide initiative to start off the picture books, fairy tales, young adult undergraduate and graduate programs gether to fill bins, haul mini-refrigerators, students,” says Michael Gieseke, dean academic year.” This fall, Point Park wel- literature, television and monster movies. Edward Scott, C.P.A., M.B.A., the George in psychology,” according to Robbins. “We and generally assist first-year and upper of student life. “We believe this not only comed 614 first-time, full-time freshmen Rowland White Endowed Professor in [approach] psychology from a humanistic class students and their families with all provides better customer service for our registered for the fall semester. They Jamesena Talbott, D.M., professor of Accounting and Finance and chair of the perspective, which places special empha- aspects of moving into the University’s students and their families, but it also represent 10 countries and 36 states. leadership, was invited to present at Department of Business, led the Fourth sis on the dignity of persons.” 2 THE POINT FALL 2016 POINTPARK.EDU 3 NEWS AND VIEWS

James Lamb has joined Point Park as Welcome New Faculty professor of education, and director of the University’s new director of coopera- the Ed.D. in leadership and administration tive education. An alumnus of Duquesne Point Park welcomed 14 new full-time program; Jill Thomas, Ph.D., associate University (M.S., Education) and The faculty members for the 2016-17 professor of psychology and director of Pennsylvania State University (B.S., academic year. These faculty bring their the M.A. clinical-community psychology Rehabilitative Education), Lamb most re- industry expertise and real-world profes- program; Chris Girman, Ph.D., assistant cently served as president of the Ireland sional experience into the classes they professor of literary arts; Kristy Long, Institute of Pittsburgh. His responsibilities teach. The new faculty members are: instructor of natural sciences; and Yaser there included developing strategic plans Sandra Mervosh, instructor of human Roshan, Ph.D., assistant professor of to advance the institute’s mission and resource management (School of Busi- electrical engineering (School of Arts promoting the institute to local, regional, ness); Ben Schonberger, instructor of and Sciences). national, and international development photography (School of Communication); agencies. Lamb has more than 30 years’ Mark Burrell, assistant professor of Welcome New Trustees International Media Class Visits Amsterdam, Bruges and London experience empowering young people dance; Colleen Hooper, Ph.D., visiting For 12 students in Point Park’s spring semester International ship.” In London, the group visited Battenhall (communications through education, employment, personal artist, dance history; Tracey Brent- Three prominent Media class, summer vacation began with a trip abroad to learn agency) and BMB (advertising agency) and experienced and professional development, cultural Chessum, Ph.D., assistant professor of business leaders have been elected to firsthand about the media, history and culture in London, Bruges cultural outings to such landmarks as Parliament and Big Ben, diversity, and coaching. In his new role at musical theatre; and April Daras, visiting Point Park’s Board of Trustees. Dave and Amsterdam, May 8-20. Professors Helen Fallon and Bob Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace. Point Park, Lamb will focus on engaging artist, theatre (Conservatory of Perform- Duncan, CEO of Duncan Financial O’Gara, retired faculty member Jan Getz, and M.A./M.B.A. alumna In Belgium, the group visited the historic Center of Bruges, a and sustaining partnerships with industry, ing Arts); Denise Beverina Moore, Group, graduated from Point Park in 1979 Emily Kolek accompanied the group. “This class and trip was UNESCO World Heritage Site, Markt Square and sampled the faculty and other stakeholders and instructor of education; Ronald Dufalla, with a bachelor’s degree in business an experience of a lifetime. You get to affordably visit multiple famous Belgian chocolate. On the agenda in Amsterdam was organizations to develop and grow Ph.D., instructor of education; Elisabeth administration. Duncan Financial LLC is countries with your friends, see how other people live, work and a visit to Vrije Universiteit for a discussion about media in The cooperative education opportunities and Ehrlich, Ed.D., instructor of education; one of the largest branch offices in the play, and get academic credit for it,” said Lauren Joseph, a senior Netherlands, Het Parool (newspaper), de Volkskrant (newspa- experiential learning opportunities. Eric Stennett, Ed.D., visiting assistant country of their broker dealer, Cambridge public relations and advertising major with a minor in multimedia. per), Ketchum Amsterdam (communications agency) and World For Jessica Federkeil, a senior journalism major, this was her first Press Photo Foundation. They also visited such landmarks as time traveling by plane. “Traveling abroad was an amazing experi- the Anne Frank House and the windmills of Zaanse Schans. ence. It’s so important to go out and see different cultures and Jane McAnallen, a senior PR and advertising major, praised THINK YOU’RE TOO learn new ideas, especially as a college student,” said Federkeil. “I the opportunity to “visit agencies and network with people you wouldn’t have been able to take this trip if it wasn’t for this class would have never met otherwise.” YOUNG TO NEED A and financial assistance from the John Fallon Travel Scholar- WILL OR TRUST? Everyone needs a plan for the future, Investment Research. Duncan has He focuses his practice on high value and valuable life experience through especially if you have children or own previously served as a Point Park trustee. commercial real estate transactions, with service learning, learning communities real estate. Joseph R. Greco, president and CEO emphasis on tax-advantaged structures and internships. “We’re so happy to award Point Park can help you get started today! of Greco Gas Inc., graduated from Point and public financing incentives. He also Point Park for developing skills relevant Park in 1971 with a bachelor’s degree in devotes significant time to representing to graduates’ lives,” said Tyson Schritter, Download a free Wills Planning Guide at plannedgiving.pointpark.edu. This business management. Greco Gas has renewable energy producers, including executive editor for Colleges of Distinc- easy-to-follow guide can provide you with proudly served the Western Pennsylvania hydroelectric power plants, wind farms tion. “High student engagement in college peace of mind as you protect your family and Greater Pittsburgh marketplaces and solar energy developments. is one of the keys to a successful under- and create a lasting legacy. since 1941 with the highest quality indus- graduate education. With an increasing

Learn more. Contact: trial and specialty gases, bulk propane, College of Distinction emphasis on hands-on learning tech- Beth Exton, Director of Development welding equipment and supplies, industrial niques, Colleges of Distinction applauds 412-392-4777 | [email protected] supplies, filler metals, and safety equip- Innovative application of high impact Point Park for practicing methodologies ment. Lafe Metz is the national chair of educational practices at Point Park that prepare students for their futures.” the Real Estate Group at Buchanan Inger- earned the University recognition among Schools must demonstrate results across 2012 M.B.A. alumna Ericka Williams recognized the importance of having a will for her family. soll & Rooney PC, managing a group of the nation’s Colleges of Distinction. Point the Four Distinctions — Engaged Stu- 45 attorneys across the firm’s 19 offices. Park students have earned college credit dents, Great Teaching, Vibrant Community

4 THE POINTTHE POINT SPRING FALL 2015 2016 POINTPARK.EDU 5 and Successful Outcomes. High school not accredit new programs until they counselors and educators make nomina- produce graduates. Point Park faculty tions, and each school is evaluated on key intend for the mechanical engineering indicators including student engagement, program to produce its first graduates student empowerment, and curricular in May 2019, and expect to receive innovation. Colleges that have distiguished accreditation in July 2020. This accredi- themselves in each of the Four Distinctions tation, once granted, will be applied and that have demonstrated dedication retroactively by ABET for up to two to enriching student outcomes through years to ensure that all graduates hold innovative learning opportunities are then a degree from an accredited program. invited to join Colleges of Distinction. “This All courses in the mechanical engineer- Convocation 2016 honor validates our commitment to provid- ing program are available on an evening ing students with a personalized support or weekend schedule, allowing working Point Park’s annual Convocation brings to high school, but with college, you have system that allows them to flourish,” said students to complete the four-year together first-year students, faculty and a choice,” Biedenbach said. “You pick the President Paul Hennigan. “The University degree requirements without putting administrators for the kickoff to the place that fits your goals, the place that offers numerous real-world learning oppor- their careers on hold. Numerous day academic year. Adelyn Biedenbach feels like it fits you. That was Point Park tunities that prepare students for success courses, including the core curriculum, (COM ’12), director of digital media for for me. It’s an atmosphere unlike any- from the moment their careers begin.” The are available to serve the needs of the NHL’s Florida Panthers, was the where else, with people who care about Point Park police Lieutenant Nicholas Black wears body camera. annual process to select the nation’s Col- traditional students as well. For more featured speaker at this year’s event on you and an amazing city for a campus.” Photo by Chris Rolinson. leges of Distinction also includes a review information, visit: pointpark.edu/ August 26. Biedenbach, a South Hills Biedenbach is about to begin her fourth of each institution’s freshman experience, Academics/Schools/SchoolofArtsand- native and 2012 graduate of Point season with the Florida Panthers, and Body Cameras Help Police Focus on Safety as well as its general education program, Sciences/Departments/NaturalScienc- Park, welcomed students at the cer- her second as director of digital media. strategic plan, and alumni success and esandEngineeringTechnology/Mechani- emony, along with the John Pearson, In that role, she oversees social media, As part of a longstanding commit- the training capabilities of the depart- satisfaction measures. calEngineering. the University’s new provost, and digital media and FloridaPanthers.com, ment to maintain a safe campus, Point ment; assist with investigations of President Paul Hennigan. “I’m hon- and contributes to the communications Park police officers are now equipped alleged police misconduct; and protect New B.S. in Mechanical The Pennsylvania Society and ored and excited to come back and and public relations strategy for both the with body cameras. Training for the 13 department members from civil liability Engineering Maguire Foundation Scholar speak to Point Park’s freshmen class. team and the BB&T Center. sworn police officers was conducted resulting from wrongful accusations You don’t typically choose where you go last summer and officers began wear- of misconduct. “Point Park has always Beginning in Spring 2017, Point Park will The Pennsylvania Society Scholarship ing the devices on Aug. 1. “Our officers been diligent about creating a safe offer a new Bachelor of Science degree program with the Maguire Foundation go out of their way to become familiar environment in which to live, learn and program in mechanical engineering that announced that Darian Ward has been first year, The Pennsylvania Society and Roberto Clemente Bridge. The matches and comforting faces to those on our work,” said President Paul Hennigan. combines rigorous theoretical study with selected as one of 25 inaugural scholar- the Maguire Foundation have offered were televised by WPXI-TV (on the campus, but we recognize there is a “The use of body cameras is just the practical, hands-on experience. The ship recipients. Darian will receive an $200,000 in scholarship awards for PCNC channel) and the event broadcast need to be prepared for any type of latest example of our University’s proac- program’s innovative curriculum will annually renewable $8,000 scholarship Pennsylvania high school students to live to 11 million Cubans via satellite. situation,” said Jeffrey Besong, chief tive approach to that commitment.” In include mechanical engineering courses for four years of undergraduate study at attend college in Pennsylvania, enriching The historic exchange was initiated with of police and vice president of Public fact, Safe Campus, the National Cam- in the freshman year so that students Point Park. Ward was selected from over the strength of the talent pool in the visit of a Pittsburgh delegation to Safety. “The use of body cameras acts pus Safety Summit, placed the Univer- can develop an early understanding of 1,000 applicants in the first year of the the Commonwealth. Cuba in June 2016, and is expected as an additional safety precaution for sity’s police department on its 2016 Top their chosen profession. Additionally, this scholarship competition. Each scholar- to serve as a foundation for future both officers and citizens.” Research 25 list. Point Park was selected from distinctive new program will provide its ship recipient needed to be a senior at a From Cuba to Point Park academic and economic exchanges. has shown that people tend to be far more than 4,700 eligible college or graduates with outstanding preparation high school in Pennsylvania. A recipient The Cuban boxers’ visit to Pittsburgh less aggressive and adhere to social university administration departments for professional practice, graduate school must have enrolled in a 4 year accredit- In late July, Point Park welcomed a group was made possible by a collaboration norms when they are aware a camera based on efforts and improvements in and engineering licensure. The new ed college in Pennsylvania, have a 3.0 or of young Cuban boxers (ages 13 to 21) among government leaders, including is in use. In addition, the body cameras campus safety. Point Park police are degree program in mechanical engineer- higher grade average, and have demon- and several of their coaches to live on Congressman Mike Doyle, Allegheny offer the ability to: more accurately also active in community service. For ing has been designed in full compliance strated financial need and a commitment the University’s Downtown campus dur- County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, document events, actions, conditions example, officers participated in the with the criteria of ABET (Accreditation to serve the community. All Pennsylvania ing a visit to Pittsburgh to box with the Representative Paul Costa (a Point and statements made during incidents; YWCA Greater Pittsburgh Center for Board for Engineering and Technology). Society Scholarship winners are required Pittsburgh Amateur Boxing Group. The Park alumnus) and former State Senator enhance the ability to prepare reports Race & Gender Equity “Stand Against The program is not yet accredited by to complete 9 credits of study in history, weeklong visit culminated in a series of Jim Ferlo and former State Representa- and present court testimony; improve Racism” event last summer. ABET because this organization does civics, and/or government studies. In its boxing matches that took place on the tive Mike Diven.

6 THE POINT FALL 2016 POINTPARK.EDU 7 Barrow, Ph.D., assistant professor of British literature. “It was a fantastic opportunity to get to see the students’ different projects and learn more about the research and creative thinking happening on our campus.” Student projects ranged from short films and poems to literature and media analyses related to topics such as lust in Anime, greed in The Hunger Games and sloth in Netflix viewers. Ta’Sey Harmon, a sophomore broadcast reporting major, presented “Greed Within Sports” at the M.B.A. Student Receives student panel session focused on greed. Chuck Cooper Scholarship Student Film Screened at Cannes Film “So many people gave me feedback CSI: Point Park Festival 2016 and were so engaged in my topic. It was DaMarra Underwood, who expects to interesting to study today’s greed in col- More than 50 high school students regis- Department of Criminal Justice and complete her M.B.A. with a concentration in Sports, Arts and Entertainment Man- A short film made by Point Park it’s a prom, but it’s very much [implied].” lege and professional sports,” explained tered for the annual CSI summer camp at Intelligence Studies on subjects ranging agement in December 2016, has been students was screened at the 69th In fact, not much is said because it was Harmon. New this year, the symposium Point Park, held July 12-15 this year, mak- from criminal justice and intelligence honored with a graduate merit scholar- Cannes International Film Festival in decided Ava would be a silent film. “The featured senior creative writing majors ing it the largest high school group the and national security to Ninja fighting ship from the Chuck Cooper Foundation. France last May. Ava, a five-minute production of Ava was very trying. We Zachary Borzovoy and Jacob Mullins, forensic science program has hosted at and forensic entomology. “This was a The Foundation’s mission is to continue film done for a Production II class in had a lot of setbacks with location and who were elected as the keynote the University. During the four-day camp, group of extremely bright students and the legacy of Charles “Chuck” Cooper, the Cinema Arts program, follows a scheduling issues, but we were able speakers, and read some of their origi- students investigated — and then created advanced learners,” remarked Edward the first African-American drafted into young woman diagnosed with a deadly to come together and work as a team,” nal fiction and poetry. “Their presenta- their own — mock crime scenes in the Strimlan, M.D., assistant professor and the National Basketball Association, by disease and how it affects the loved Randolph said. “Collaboration played a tions were a real display of the range CSI House on campus and conducted coordinator of the forensic science awarding graduate-level scholarships ones around her. “I had a good friend key factor in our success.” Cara Friez, of work our department and students lab work on various types of evidence program. “It was exciting to have a lot and by providing comprehensive leader- who passed away our senior year of one of the group’s Production II profes- produce,” said Karen Dwyer, Ph.D., as- (hairs, fibers, fingerprints, etc.). They also of out-of-town students again this year,” ship development, professional skills and high school from brain cancer,” said sors, called Ava a very high quality and sociate professor of English and coor- heard presentations from faculty in the added Strimlan. opportunities to underserved students. David Randolph of Wexford, who ambitious film. “It’s beautifully shot and dinator of the creative writing program. Mitchel Nickols, Ph.D., Point Park wrote, produced and directed the film edited,” she said. “I told them this was a part-time professor, is a consultant and earlier this year as a sophomore at big production and questioned whether Dinwoodie and Baranski Inducted tion. Dinwoodie earned NAIA Honor- player who ushered in a big turnaround leadership program developer with the Point Park. “I always thought it was they wanted to do it in such a short time. into Pioneer Athletic Hall of Fame able-Mention All-American honors and in Point Park softball. Baranski was the Foundation. “I have learned so much in such a tragic story and I wanted to They went above and beyond to make in 2016 was an All-Northeast Region performer first recruit signed by current head coach the time I have attended this University display it, but with a sweet ending. He it work.” The film was accepted as part for the Pioneers. His place in the Point Michelle Coultas, who just finished up and I am looking forward to continuing to was the prom king, and the original of the Creative Mind Group’s screening Point Park’s Pioneer Athletic Hall of Park baseball record book endures after her 10th year at the school. That signing grow and learn from the faculty at Point idea was for Ava to be taken to prom at Cannes in the Short Film Corner, and Fame includes two new inductees: Rob the end of his college career. Dinwoodie provided a cornerstone for a program Park,” said Underwood, who is an accom- by the end of the film. It’s never said was shown in full at the festival. Dinwoodie (Baseball, 1997-2000) and Lindsey (Pesanka) Baranski (Softball, was a part of a talented infield that also that had not won more than 10 games plished Gospel singer and plans a career 2008-11). Dinwoodie and Baranski were included fellow Pioneer Athletic Hall of in a season in several years. Baranski as a music executive. enshrined at an induction ceremony on Famers Don Kelly (HOF ’10) and Ryan was an all-conference player for four Seven Deadly Sins Theme for Hosted by the Department of Literary October 1, part of the Point Park’s annual Ellis (HOF ’11). Outfielder Mike Smith years. Her freshman year ended with an Undergraduate Symposium Arts, the spring symposium centered Athletics Alumni Weekend. Dinwoodie (HOF ’11) was also a teammate, which American Mideast Conference Fresh- Looking for a flexible, on the theme of the “Seven Deadly was a star player for the Pioneers’ gives four Hall of Fame inductees from man of the Year honor. Over four years, convenient online Students across many different majors Sins.” “Our theme of the ‘Seven Deadly baseball team from 1997-2000. An that team. The Pioneers had a record she batted .304 with 128 hits in 134 presented research surrounding the Sins’ helped bring together a number of infielder from Mississauga, Ontario, he of 136-55-1 (.710) from 1997-2000. career games. For more information on degree program? wonders of pride, greed, lust, envy, glut- exciting interdisciplinary projects around was a key part of an NAIA World Series Baranski, who was known as her maiden the Pioneer Athletic Hall of Fame, and tony, wrath and sloth this year at the a single point of focus and led to many team in 1998, and he left his mark on name Lindsey Pesanka during her time to learn how to make a nomination, visit Online.PointPark.edu Annual Undergraduate Symposium. lively discussions,” explained Barbara Point Park by the time of his gradua- with the Pioneers, was an all-conference PointPark.edu/Athletics/HallofFame.

188 THETHE POINT POINT SPRING FALL 20162014 POINTPARK.EDUPOINTPARK.EDU 199 HOMETOWN PROUD Point Park’s downtown campus was at the heart of a victory parade on June 16 to celebrate the Pittsburgh Penguins’ 2016 Stanley Cup championship. Staff, faculty and students joined throngs of Pens fans from far and wide to see Sidney Crosby and fellow players carry the Stanley Cup down the .

Photos by Shayna Mendez, photojournalism major.

10 THE POINT FALL 2016 POINTPARK.EDU 11 Stanley Denton, Ph.D. Leads College Now, GIFTS AT WORK Paves the Way for Black Male Teachers BUILDING A BRIDGE Reaction to the conference was uniformly positive, especially by Barbara Vilanova among the younger attendees. Participant Emanule Cargile, a A $130,000 grant from The Pittsburgh Foundation junior from Propel Andrew Street, said, “It was a powerful Funds a New Program for At-Risk High School experience. They were passing the baton to our generation.” Students’ Transition to College

Point Park University has received a $130,000 grant College Now Opportunities from The Pittsburgh Foundation to initiate “Bridge to Your Future: Explore the Possibilities,” a two-year pilot program In addition to the ambitious goals of the Black Men Teaching that will address the problems of access to, and success in, Initiative, Denton spearheads College Now, a dual enrollment college for underrepresented, at-risk students. A group of collaborative program that lets qualifying students earn up to faculty are collaborating on the multidisciplinary program, 30 credits at a significantly reduced tuition rate during their in which Point Park will partner with Pittsburgh-area school junior or senior years of high school. Students participating in districts to provide dual-enrollment opportunities and other the College Now program can receive guidance and mentor- support for high school seniors as they prepare to transi- ship from faculty and advisors, and as an added incentive, tion to college. The pilot program is based on national best those high school students who decide to enroll in College practices that address core barriers to at-risk students. Now and major in education are given preference in the admission process. Reaching At-Risk Students

Denton was a natural choice to head this program. In his According to Vice President for Development and Alumni former position as program officer for multicultural education Relations Sharon Navoney, “This generous grant from in the Pittsburgh Public Schools, Denton created a national The Pittsburgh Foundation is exciting and forward thinking award-winning model program for incorporating diversity in that it will help us to reach students who may not other- across the curriculum. A frequent seminar leader and speaker wise consider college. Underrepresented and low-income on diversity, educational issues and conflict resolution for high school students often do not have the supports in community groups, national conferences, not-for-profit place to pursue a college education, even if they have the organizations and business groups throughout the United desire and ability.” States and in Africa, Denton is also active in numerous civic and community affairs, serving on the Duquesne, Pa. School “The ‘Bridge to Your Future’ program will enable Point Park District Board of Control. He is also involved in mentoring and The Pittsburgh Foundation to tackle core barriers to middle school youth through the Mt. Ararat Baptist Church college access, including student loan literacy, college- Male Mentoring Project. level readiness and college acculturation,” says Navoney. hen the popular website Slate.com wanted to the article’s author Dani McClain called “a national problem.” Through a competitive application and selection process, explore why there aren’t more African-American “The Pennsylvania schools’ program could be particularly Education Changes Lives high school teachers (supported by their school district) Wmale teachers, they sought out Stanley Denton, Ph.D., helpful because the mismatch in Pittsburgh’s public schools will be selected to collaborate with University faculty on associate professor of education at Point Park, for answers. is wide. While just over half of the 26,000 students are black Darlene B. Marnich, Ph.D., professor and chair of the curriculum and professional development in order to deliver and one-third are white, according to data from 2014, 85 Education Department in the School of Arts and Sciences, learning outcomes, and establish classroom culture prac- Denton has been a leader in the formation of the Black Men percent of the district’s teachers were white and 14 percent puts Denton’s efforts into the simplest of terms. “Stanley tices, within their home classrooms for college credit. Teaching Initiative, a Western Pennsylvania-wide effort aimed at were black,” reported McClain. Addressing gaps like this is a believes that education can change lives.” increasing the percentage of African-American males enrolled major goal of the Black Men Teaching Initiative. Critical Community Partnership in college education programs from one percent to five percent “In recent years, the state is not certifying nearly as many Navoney says that the value of support from partners such over the next three years. It’s an aggressive goal, but one that As Denton points out, Point Park can’t do it alone, which is why teachers as it did 10 years ago. Therefore, with the fewer as The Pittsburgh Foundation “cannot be overstated. Without Denton believes is entirely possible. faculty and staff from other nearby universities including Indiana number of graduates, and a higher number of teacher retire- such critical external support, Point Park could not dream big University of Pennsylvania, California University of Pennsylvania ments, our students are getting jobs when they graduate.” Collaborative Effort and innovate in how we meet student needs, as well as the and the Community College of Allegheny County are involved in With Denton’s efforts, she adds, “the hope is that many of those workforce needs of the regional economy. Together, we are the effort. Last May, Point Park hosted about 100 high school teachers will be black males and role models for our children.” According to the Slate article, Pennsylvania’s effort at increasing able to collaborate and build bridges, so that students are students for the “Ever Consider Teaching?” conference focused black male teachers in the classroom is one of a handful of Read the entire Slate.com article on efforts to encourage able to succeed and go on to be leaders here in Pittsburgh, on the need for more black male teachers in America’s schools. similar initiatives across the country aimed at addressing what more black male teachers at: http://slate.me/1XbL4Og v across the country, and around the world.” v

12 THE POINT FALL 2016 POINTPARK.EDU 13 THE WHO’S TOMMY, SWEET CHARITY, AND MUCH MORE

Playhouse presents big musicals, a holiday comedy, classics and contemporary works

Point Park University’s Conservatory Theatre Company will present art installations. I’m Gonna Pray For You So Hard, by Halley six productions in the 2016-2017 season, ranging from revamped Feiffer and directed by Robert Turano, runs Sept. 30–Oct. classics to popular musicals. The season begins Oct. 21 and runs 16. Described by Adam Feldman of Time Out New York through April 16, 2017, at the Pittsburgh Playhouse, 222 Craft Ave. as “Viciously funny! Brutally effective,” the show explores a Opening the season on Oct. 21 will be the Tony Award-winning complex father-daughter relationship and broke box office musical, The Who’s Tommy, based on the band’s rock opera records at the Atlantic Theater Company’s Stage 2 Space. ON STAGE THIS FALL AND SPRING Tommy. This timeless rock and roll tale of a pinball prodigy has The season concludes with Woody’s Order, Feb. 3–19. Written The Best Christmas become a worldwide hit, along with garnering Tony, Grammy, by Pittsburgh native Ann Talman and directed by Point Park THE REP CONSERVATORY PLAYHOUSE JR. Pageant Ever: The Musical DANCE COMPANY Olivier, and Drama Desk Awards. The season continues with faculty member John Shepard, Woody’s Order is the story of Wig Out! By Jahnna Beecham & Pinkalicious: The Musical Edward Bond’s masterpiece about people and society, The Sea, a unique sibling relationship between Ann, an actress who By Tarell Alvin McCraney Malcom Hillgartner Student Choreography Book & Lyrics by Elizabeth opening Nov. 11. Described by the Wall Street Journal as “a is stuck between choosing her Broadway career or being a Directed by Tomé Cousin Adapted from the book by Project Kann & Victoria Kann masterpiece that deserves to be produced and pondered again caregiver, and her brother Woody, who has cerebral palsy. This Sept. 9–25 Barbara Robinson Oct. 14–16 Music & Lyrics by John Gregor and again,” The Sea is an interesting mix of farce, comedy, social one-woman show follows Ann’s close relationship with Woody Rauh Theater Directed by Philip Winters GRW Performance Studio Based on the book mockery and poetic tragedy. from childhood through her teenage and college years and Dec. 9–18 Pinkalicious by Elizabeth Kann into adulthood. I’m Gonna Pray For You Rauh Theater Contemporary & Victoria Kann Choreographers The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical So Hard May 3–21; Open to the public Nov. 16–20 Among Season Highlights Ballet Off-Center Highlights Dance Season By Halley Feiffer Big Love May 6 GRW Performance Studio Directed Robert Turano By Charles L. Mee Rockwell Theatre Kicking off the holiday season is The Best Christmas Pageant The Conservatory Dance Company’s 2016-2017 season includes Sept. 30–Oct. 16 Directed by Ballet Off-Center Ever: The Musical, opening Dec. 9. This lively production will touch a unique production of Ballet Off-Center, which will be presented Studio Theater The Adventures of Nate Reginald Douglas Dec. 2–11 the Great families’ hearts and funny bones while celebrating Christmas, Dec. 2-11 at the Rockwell Theater. The Conservatory Dance Feb. 24–March 12 Rockwell Theatre family and community. Next up for the CTC is Big Love, opening Company season also includes such annual productions as Woody’s Order Rauh Theater Based on the Nate the Great Feb. 24. In this humorous, but tragic, modern adaptation of Contemporary Choreographers, in which luminaries of the dance By Ann Talman Conservatory Dance series of books by Marjorie Aeschylus’s The Suppliants, 50 brides run away to an Italian manor world collaborate with students; the annual Conservatory Dance Directed by John Shepard Sweet Charity Company at Point Park Weinman Sharmat May 4–21; Open to the public to prevent marriage to their cousins. Another Tony Award-winning Company at the Byham production; and Point Park Connections, Feb. 3–19 Book by Neil Simon University May 6 musical, Sweet Charity, opens on March 17. Based on the film, which runs April 21-23 at the GRW Performance Studio on campus. Studio Theater Music by Cy Coleman Choreography by Rauh Theatre Nights of Cabiria, this jazzed musical has had numerous revivals Lyrics by Dorothy Fields dance faculty around the world. The beloved Fosse-style musical won Tony, Pinkalicious: The Musical and More at CONSERVATORY Based on the original Feb. 23–26 Drama Desk, and Sydney Theatre Awards. Rounding out Playhouse Jr. THEATRE COMPANY screenplay by Federico GRW Performance Studio the CTC season is a modern twist on an American classic, Uncle Fellini, Tullio Pinelli The Who’s Tommy Conservatory Dance Tom’s Cabin, or the Most Popular American Play You’ve Never Playhouse Jr., Point Park’s family and children’s theatre company, and Ennio Flaiano Company at the Byham SPECIAL OFFER Seen. Based on the anti-slavery novel by Harriet Beecher Stowe, invites school and community groups and the general public to Music and Lyrics by Directed by Michael Rupert FOR ALUMNI Pete Townshend April 13–15 originally published in 1852, this show has been rewritten to reflect enjoy its 68th season, which opens to the public on May 6. In March 17–26 Book by Pete Townshend Byham Theater (Downtown) modern concepts and ideas that are relevant to society today. spring 2017, Playhouse Jr. will present Pinkalicious: The Musical Rockwell Theatre Point Park alumni receive and Des McAnuff a 50 percent discount May 6–21 at the Rockwell Theatre. With book and lyrics by Additional Music and Lyrics Point Park Connections off regular ticket prices. I’m Gonna Pray for You So Hard and Woody’s Elizabeth Kann and Victoria Kann, and music and lyrics by by John Entwistle and Uncle Tom’s Cabin, or the April 21–23 Visit or call the box Order at The REP John Gregor, this fun and rousing show is based on the Kanns’ Keith Moon Most Popular American GRW Performance Studio office: 412-392-8000. book Pinkalicious. Also opening to the public on May 6 is The Directed by Zeva Barzell Play You’ve Never Seen For more information on The 2016-2017 season of The REP, Point Park’s professional Adventures of Nate the Great, which will be on stage at the Oct. 21–Oct. 30 Adapted by Tome Cousin the 2016-2017 theatre company, includes regional premieres and shows written Playhouse’s Rauh Theater through May 21. Adapted for the and Jason Jacobs Rockwell Theater Playhouse season, Original play by George Aiken by some of the best contemporary playwrights. The season opened stage by Pamela Sterling, this lively production is based on the including subscriptions, on Sept. 9 with the regional premiere of MacArthur Genius award- Nate the Great series of books by Marjorie Weinman Sharmat. The Sea Based on the novel by tickets and alumni winner Tarell Alvin McCraney’s vibrant new play, Wig Out!, an The second oldest children’s theatre company in the country, By Edward Bond Harriet Beecher Stowe discounts, visit www. exploration of drag culture and the stereotypes that go along with Playhouse Jr. features acting, musical theatre, stage manage- Directed by David Cabot Directed by Tomé Cousin pittsburghplayhouse.com. gender identity. The director is Point Park alumnus Tomé Cousin, ment and technical theatre/design students both on and off Nov. 11–Dec. 4 and Jason Jacobs an internationally recognized artist, educator and creator of stage at the Playhouse. Studio Theater April 7–16 musical theater works, ballets, films, new opera, song cycles and Rauh Theatre

14 THE POINT FALL 2016 POINTPARK.EDU 15 Playhouse Rising

onstruction is underway on Point Park University’s new Pittsburgh Playhouse, a 92,000-square-foot cultural hub Cthat will be situated on a 1.6 acre parcel between Forbes and Fourth avenues in Downtown Pittsburgh. From this view atop Point Park’s adjoining University Center, it’s possible to see the new main stage theater taking shape along Forbes Avenue (on the left hand side of the photo.)

Eye on Playhouse Progress

You can watch each stage of construction of the new Playhouse, as it unfolds in real time, from the University’s construction cam. Follow the action at: bit.ly/29RV6nC Photo by Christopher Rolinson.

16 THE POINT FALL 2016 POINTPARK.EDU 17 CENTER FOR MEDIA INNOVATION DESIGNED TO EDUCATE A NEW WAVE OF TECH-SAVVY expertise in multiple disciplines,” said Andrew Conte, director New Media, New Tools The Mission of the Center JOURNALISTS of the Center for Media Innovation and an award-winning investigative journalist in his 15 years at the Pittsburgh While the Center will be a relevant educational tool for • TRAINING: The Center will engage current students, Tribune-Review. “The Center for Media Innovation is designed students of all schools at Point Park, the goal is to reach high school students, professionals and citizens in learning ith the official opening on Sept. 13 of the Center for as an incubator and collaborative space that brings together beyond University walls. “This is a major investment in journalistic skills and values. Media Innovation, Point Park is taking a leading role in a cohesive, interactive strategy to education.” supporting journalism at a time when the industry needs it Weducating a new generation of media professionals. the most. Along with training a new generation of journalists, • OUTREACH: The Center will serve as a clubhouse for The Center’s floor-to-ceiling glass walls, flat-screen televi- we will offer opportunities to professionals looking to sharpen journalists, with frequent events for professionals, The Center also positions the University as an important sions and a digital ticker offer a New York City-style media skills and add new ones, as they work to keep up with industry opportunities for students and prospective students, resource for professional journalists and as an advocate for hub where passersby can be entertained and informed as changes,” Conte said. “The general public also will be welcome and national aspirations for recognizing industry leaders. helping the public-at-large understand the important role a students learn their craft. to attend events designed to teach them about media and the strong, independent media plays in society. vital role it must continue to play in their daily lives.” • ONLINE PRESENCE: The Center will have a digital “Point Park has spent the last decade bringing activity to its presence as compelling and interesting as the physical Modern Media Hub street-level spaces along Wood Street, Boulevard of the Allies Designed by Pittsburgh-based GBBN Architects, the 4,000- space. The online site will include podcasts, a video and Forbes Avenue,” said Paul Hennigan, president of the square-foot center cost $2.5 million to build and has been made library, news stories and a blog, with robust social “The media industry has evolved beyond individual labels such University. “The Center is uniquely designed to showcase the possible, in part, with a grant from the Allegheny Foundation. media components. as print and television. Young journalists must be prepared for vibrancy of the educational opportunities we offer our students Trib Total Media is a sponsor of the Center’s news ticker. a massive multimedia effort that requires knowledge and while providing the public a visually engaging experience.”

18 THE POINT FALL 2016 POINTPARK.EDU 19 Chelsea Pompeani (COM ’11), the new media innovation specialist at the Center, speaks with President Paul Hennigan at the opening event.

Inside the Center By the Numbers Grand Opening Media Share Insights

• TV and radio broadcast studios: The television studio • The 17-foot-by-15-foot pivot wall and folding glass partitions Point Park’s new Center for Media Innovation officially opened After lunch, the panel discussions continued with “The Speed includes a green screen, industry-specific lighting, and allow three rooms to become one large space. on Sept. 13 with a full day of events for the entire Point Park of Live: Why Sports Matter Most to Fans & Brands,” featuring high-definition cameras. community, the media and the public. Chris Eames, vice president of sales and marketing for ESPN • Three miles of data cabling has been installed in the Center. and James Kerr, director of sponsorship for AT&T, presented • Photo studio: The studio features high ceilings and light The day began with an opening ceremony at the Center, followed with the Pittsburgh Center for Sports Media & Marketing. That control for the best possible shooting environment. • There is a three-degree angle tilt to the glass walls in the by the #MediaPioneers Morning Panel featuring: Luis Fabregas, was followed by the #MediaPioneers Afternoon Panel, featuring television studio to help reflect sound and light waves. editor, Trib Total Media; Ben Howard, assistant managing editor, Tracy Certo, founder and publisher, NEXTpittsburgh; Lexi • Multimedia newsroom: Reporting and multimedia story- digital design, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette; Ted Achladis, digital Belculfine, editor, The Incline; Jim Kubus, manager, UpGruv; telling, along with graphics production, social media, and • Four-inch acoustic foam insulates the walls in the radio studio. content manager, WPXI; Michelle Wright, morning host, WTAE; and Mila Sanina, executive director, PublicSource. web development are conducted in this smart classroom. and Terry O’Reilly, president and CEO, Pittsburgh Community • A one-inch foam padding system in the studio floors absorbs Broadcasting Corp (91.3 WYEP and 90.5 WESA). Sarah Koenig, creator of the hugely popular Serial podcast, • Transformational presentation and gallery space: The sound in the space and prevents exterior noise. was the keynote speaker at an evening event that concluded Center can transform into an event space for educational The celebration continued with an outdoor lunch in Village Park, the day’s festivities. sessions with newsmakers and industry leaders. The area • Fourteen televisions of various sizes are installed throughout featuring entertainment provided by Pioneer Records, Point Park’s can be used as a photo gallery, offering another space to the space. own record label, with performances by student artists Hannah showcase work. Jenkins and John Kono Rushlander.

20 THE POINT FALL 2016 POINTPARK.EDU 21 CMI construction manager Calvin Ruth of Landau Building Co. with his daughter Skyler, a sophomore broadcasting major who will benefit from learning opportunities at the Center. Sarah Koenig

Events at the Center FALL EVENTS AT THE CMI

The Center for Media Innovation will offer an ongoing slate that are evocative of the First Amendment to display at OCT. 18 workshop/panel discussion. Co-hosted with Pahl Hluchan, of events, presentations, exhibitions and much more, most the Center. PRESIDENTIAL SPIN: BUILDING A CANDIDATE’S animation professor. of which are open to the public. NARRATIVE Pulitzer Prize-winning Washington Post reporters Keith Alexander, Local representatives of the presidential campaigns talk about OCT. 27 For example, the Center has presented “What if 9/11 Happened a Point Park graduate, and Wes Lowery talked about their how they have tried to build compelling candidate narratives PRESS FORWARD: HOLDING POLICE ACCOUNTABLE Today,” featuring Associated Press photographer Richard Drew, police brutality series and the #BlackLivesMatter movement during the long election cycle. Jamie Kalven, founder of the nonprofit Invisible Institute, who talked about his experiences capturing the “Fallen Man” at an event co-sponsored by the Pittsburgh Black Media speaks about his reporting on the shooting of Chicago’s images at the World Trade Center. In addition, local reporters Federation on Sept. 21. Other September events included a OCT. 20 Laquan McDonald by police. A story he wrote for Slate took part in a panel discussion. The event was co-sponsored by presentation by Point Park alumnus Fred McLeod, the voice SELLING THE PITTSBURGH STEELERS Magazine prompted other reporters to question the shooting. the Press Club of Western Pennsylvania, the Women’s Press of the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers, who talked about his Kathy Wallace, corporate sales and marketing manager for the Co-sponsored by the Press Club of Western Pennsylvania Club of Pittsburgh and the Pittsburgh Black Media Federation. experiences during the team’s 2016 championship run. The Pittsburgh Steelers, talks about sales and marketing strategies. and the Pittsburgh Black Media Federation. appearance was co-sponsored by the Pittsburgh Center for OCT. 20 NOV. 14 A First Amendment photo exhibit opened on Sept. 16. Matt Sports Media & Marketing and the University’s Sports, Arts PEN TO THE PRESIDENT: 2016 POLITICAL CARTOONS DIANE REHM VISITS POINT PARK Adams, a Point Park graduate who is now photo editor for and Entertainment Management Program. Opening of exhibit of political cartoons curated by Rob Rogers Longtime American public radio talk show host Diane Rehm, National Geographic, and Christopher Rolinson, a Point Park of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and the Toonseum. Rogers and whose eponymous show is distributed national and internation- photojournalism professor, selected two dozen photographs For more information, visit: www.centerformediainnovation.com Randy Bish of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review take part in a ally by National Public Radio, visits Point Park. v

22 THE POINT FALL 2016 POINTPARK.EDU 23 ALUMNI CONNECTION CLASS NOTES

1970s

Joseph Walker (COM 1973) writes, “After The Point Park graduate and life member of munications and education at Village Theater a 41-year career in journalism and public re- Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 914 Intrepid Company in Sewickley. The nonprofit’s art MARK YOUR CALENDAR lations, I am now enjoying retirement in The West Mifflin earned the VFW’s top honors house theater and film-based educational Villages, Fla. But I have not fully abandoned for feature writing in 2016. Mauer, an Army center will open this spring, bringing new Oct. 20 (Philadelphia) Alumni Reception the skills I learned at Point Park University. veteran of Operation Desert Storm, won educational and entertainment options to re- For example, I produce a quarterly e-news- the grand award for best feature article in gions northwest of Pittsburgh. She continues Oct. 25 (Chicago) Alumni Reception letter for members of my high school class. the VFW National Publications Contest. to serve as director of university and student And until recently, I produced a monthly e- The article, “Post with No Home Earns All relations for the Pittsburgh Chapter of the Nov. 12 (Washington, D.C.) Alumni & Student Dinner newsletter for the Village of Piedmont, where State Honors,” was published in the August/ International Association of Business Com- my wife and I live in The Villages. We also September 2015 edition of the Pennsylvania municators and recently joined the board of Nov. 16 (Pittsburgh) Recent Alumni Happy Hour were privileged to attend the recent alumni VFW News. Mauer’s entry bested a field of the Merrick Art Gallery in New Brighton, Pa. luncheon in Tampa. It was great to reminisce articles submitted from more three dozen She earned her master’s degree in journalism Dec. 3 (Pittsburgh) Holiday Luncheon & Nutcracker Performance with other alums about our years and profes- VFW departments across the United States and communications, graduating summa cum sors who guided us at Point Park, and to and around the world. The judges’ panel was laude, in 1991 at Point Park. Jan. 30 (Los Angeles) Alumni & Student Reception hear from President Paul Hennigan about comprised of professional journalists not all the wonderful developments at our alma affiliated with the VFW. An active freelance 2000s Feb. 13-17 (FLA) Alumni Receptions with President Paul Hennigan mater. Special mention was made of the late, writer for more than 35 years, Mauer won great J&C professor Vin LaBarbera, who the Army’s highest journalism honor, the

Visit PointPark.edu/alumni for more information. was a mentor and inspiration to many of us. Keith L. Ware award, in 1991. He was also We miss him to this day.” awarded the Joint Service Commendation Medal by Gen. H. Norman Schwarzkopf for 1980s Greetings from campus! his actions as a military reporter in Opera- tion Desert Storm. In 1984, Mauer earned Fall is an exciting time at Point Park University. We recently welcomed This coming year we look forward to seeing alumni in Pittsburgh Samuel J. Cordes (COM 1980 and 1985), a bachelor’s degree in journalism and com- the class of 2020 to our Downtown Pittsburgh campus and they and across the country at events and lectures, introducing new principal of the western Pennsylvania-based munications from Point Park. He has been have integrated themselves seamlessly with the community, as alumni benefits, and increasing opportunities for alumni to give back labor and employment law firm Samuel J. married for more than 30 years to Marsey evidenced by the constant activity in Village Park. Our students are to their alma mater. Visit PointPark.edu/alumni to stay up-to-date on Cordes & Associates, has been named the Mauer, also a 1984 graduate. working hard in the classroom, in their internships and other experi- events, programs and benefits available to you. You can also follow Best Lawyers 2017 Employment Law “Law- ential learning activities, and in their extracurricular pursuits. us on Facebook (facebook.com/pointparkalumni) or Twitter (twitter. yer of the Year.” Only a single lawyer in each 1990s Daniel Allman (COM ’08) has joined CNN com/pointparkalumni). We also welcome alumni to visit and tour practice area and community is honored with in Washington, D.C. as an assignment editor. Just as our students are busy with the new academic year, we’ve our constantly growing campus, including the brand-new Center a “Lawyer of the Year” award. Cordes has Celia Wexler (COM 1996) has published His responsibilities include coverage of the been busy planning another slate of events, benefits and programs for Media Innovation. also been listed as among only 10 Pittsburgh her second book, Catholic Women Confront 2016 election season. A native of Lower for alumni across the country. Before we do, let’s look back at the area attorneys on the Super Lawyers Penn- Their Church: Stories of Hurt and Hope. Burrell, Pa., Allman joined WTAE-TV in Pitts- 2015-2016 academic year, in which the Office of Alumni Relations: I remain grateful to so many of you who continue to be generous sylvania Top 100 list for 2016. Published September 28, the book tells the with your time and your feedback about your experiences with burgh as an associate producer after earning stories of ten exceptional Catholic women • Hosted 24 alumni events in cities all over the country, including Point Park following graduation. The Office of Alumni Relations his degree in broadcasting from Point Park. who have struggled with the question: Can Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, Orlando, Pittsburgh, San and the University community is using your feedback to enhance He later became an assignment editor at Francisco, Tampa and Washington, D.C. the experience of alumni with their alma mater for years to come. you be both a Catholic and a feminist? WMAR-TV in Baltimore, where he covered I look forward to starting new conversations, and continuing others, Wexler received a starred review from the city’s riots and unrest in spring 2015. • Increased the number of alumni benefits to include discounts over the next academic year. Publishers Weekly, which praised the book on everything from graduate degree programs and homeowners’ for its “thought-provoking profiles” that “brim insurance to tickets to cultural and athletic events, and much more. All my best, with hope and concern for the future of the DROP US Catholic Church.” Wexler earned her master’s • Introduced an exclusive mobile app that keeps the Point Park Sarah Myksin degree in journalism at Point Park. A NOTE! University alumni network at your fingertips. Director of Alumni Relations [email protected] Michael P. Mauer (COM 1984) has been Visit PointPark.edu/classnote Karen Ferrick-Roman (COM 1991) has to share your news. honored with a National VFW Writing Award. been named the inaugural director of com-

24 THE POINT FALL 2016 POINTPARK.EDU 25 CLASS IN MEMORIAM NOTES

Rev. John Zingaro Wisconsin, New Jersey and Illinois. When he returned to Pittsburgh, new show called, Team Ninja Warrior: College Washington when the actor was in [Pitts- Dominic Rodriguez (COPA ’13) writes, “I Helen Fallon (COM 1975), director John served as a supply pastor, preaching just nine days before he Edition. I am not sure where my career will take burgh] to rehearse his planned production of concentrated in directing in the Cinema and of Point Park’s Honors Program and died. Always adventurous, he lived in and rode his bicycle through 13 me, but I am glad Point Park helped me get 10 August Wilson plays over the next decade Digital Arts program. For my final Production a professor in the School of Commun- countries and spoke Swahili, German and French. He wrote six books. where I needed to be.” for HBO. Drew said landing the acting job IV film, I made a documentary about furries ication, wrote the following remem- And John never lost his love of sports. He was a regular Pirates fan- with Washington happened very quickly and with Olivia Vaughn, Christine Meyer, brance of her friend and fellow alum- tasy baseball camps attendee and loved being a soccer, field hockey, was the result of efforts by his agent Jarod Jordan Serra, and JP Pelc. The 12-minute nus Rev. John Zingaro (COM 1976). softball, and baseball referee and umpire. Pascoe of the Docherty Agency. ‘He told me short was called Fursonas. We continued Denzel was coming to Pittsburgh and had the working on the project after graduating, Journalist, volunteer, world traveler, minister. Those words aptly idea to cast a couple young actors from the hoping to expand it into a feature-length film. describe the Rev. John Zingaro, a 1976 journalism and communica- city to be understudies and stand-ins during Four years later, Fursonas has premiered at a tions graduate. Alumni from that era remember him as intelligent, Susan Gribble Ryberg rehearsals.’ His agent recommended Drew major film festival, Slamdance, where it won compassionate and hard-working. John lived his life dedicated to mak- Susan Gribble Ryberg (COM 1971) died on May 26 in Goldsboro, update his resume, which he quickly did and the Spirit of Slamdance Award. Subsequently, ing a difference until he died of cancer July 14 at age 62. John came N.C. She was 66. A native of Pennsylvania, Ryberg was retired from 48 hours later, he was hired. Drew was the the film acquired distribution from Gravitas to Point Park with sports writing and photography experience at the the Moye Library on the campus of the University of Mount Olive. She understudy for the character of ‘Jim Bono’ Ventures and is currently available on Video Ellwood City Ledger, and he served as sports information director from earned her bachelor’s degree in journalism and communications at Perris Drew (COPA ’16) “recently experi- who is Troy Maxson’s (played by Denzel Wash- On Demand on platforms such as iTunes, Am- 1974-76. In the 1980s he wrote freelance articles for the Pittsburgh Point Park in 1971 and later pursued graduate studies in both musi- enced a budding actor’s dream gig when he ington in the recent production of Fences on azon, and Google Play. The film has received Post-Gazette and other publications. But volunteering for Vista and cal theatre and communications. She was also a librarian for 25 years worked as a stand-in and understudy for the Broadway) best friend. ‘The experience felt positive reviews from sources such as The working as the Pittsburgh Neighborhood Alliance executive director at the University’s Helen-Jean Moore Library, and taught courses in Oscar-winning actor Denzel Washington,” like a three-week acting intensive. Having the Hollywood Reporter and Variety, and the story led him to become a Presbyterian minister. He earned a master’s both social sciences and journalism at Point Park. She is survived by according to an article in the New Pittsburgh chance to play opposite Denzel, and for him of how it came to be made has appeared in degree at the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary in 1993 and took her husband, alumnus Allen E. Ryberg (COM 1988) and her son, Courier. “Drew, who earned his degree in to share his experience and wisdom in such dozens of articles from Esquire to Glamour. courses at several European and American universities. He served as former Point Park student Stuart A. Kushon. Read the entire obituary: theater arts (with a concentration in acting) an intimate setting was truly life-changing,’ a missionary in Tanzania and East Africa, then as pastor to churches in bit.ly/1YcrGQJ. in May, 2016, spent three weeks last April said Drew.” Read the whole article in the New Michael Suppa (A&S ’10) was selected acting as a stand-in and understudy for Pittsburgh Courier: bit.ly/294SgLP to be a member of the inaugural class of

Melissa Meighan (BUS ’08, ’09) writes, Check out www.blackcatmarket.com for more 17 different countries, several mountain ranges, “I’m proud to represent Point Park University info.” She earned her degree in photojournalism and three deserts. We posted updates of our as a financial analyst at the U.S. Department at Point Park. journey on social media and recorded the entire I enrolled in the M.B.A. program at Point Park of the Treasury in Washington, D.C. I love experience for a documentary. See www.face- University because I decided it was time to make an investment in myself. The being able to put Point Park on the map and Rich Venezia (COPA ’11), an avid genealogist book.com/teamkeystone16, @team_keystone environment at Point Park motivated me that to promote the City of Pittsburgh!” Meighan since childhood, started Rich Roots Geneal- on Twitter and Instagram, and www.teamkey- much more, and the experience has made earned her undergraduate degree in business ogy in 2014. He specializes in Italian, Irish, and stone.org. me want to give back. I know there are other people who are interested and want management and her M.B.A. at Point Park. other immigrant ancestry, as well as Pittsburgh to learn. I contribute to help them achieve research. He just celebrated his second season Bethany Winchester (COPA ’16) writes, “I their goals, and hope to make a difference 2010s as a researcher on Genealogy Roadshow was a part of the new M.F.A. [Writing for Screen in the lives of students like me.” (PBS), and also recently worked as a consul- and Stage] program at Point Park and my class MELANIE HAILSHAM Cody McDevitt (COM ’13) writes, “I was tant on Follow Your Past (Travel Channel). Visit was the first ever to graduate from this program. M.B.A., ’12 recently offered a book deal from Arcadia www.richroots.net for more information. During my second year of the M.F.A. program, I Publishing for a book about the history of earned an internship at A Smith & Co. Produc- Pittsburgh’s nightlife. The book will feature Alyssa Knierim (A&S ’14) writes, “I, along tions in Los Angeles. My internship was located Giving Back recipes from the city’s top barkeeps and with fellow alumni Joe Rittenhouse (COPA right next to Universal Studios in the heart of Melanie gives so others receive chefs. It will be released in early 2017.” ’14), Linda Kanyarusoke (COPA ’14), Steve Studio City. I got to work on many different the same academic opportunities Faber (COPA ’12) and Anthony Gullikson shows during my time there, including the new she enjoyed at Point Park. Olivia Ciotoli (COM’14) writes, “I am a (COPA ’16), participated in the 2016 Mongol NBC show Spartan Ultimate Team Challenge. Your gift will make a co-owner of The Black Cat Market, which will Rally, a 10,000 mile charity road trip from From my internship, I earned a job in the casting difference. What’s your reason? be Pittsburgh’s first cat cafe. We launched a England to Mongolia in support of Children’s department, and got selected to cast for the PointPark.edu/Give kickstarter to help fund the cafe on May 3 Hospital of Pittsburgh and Children’s Hospital NBC show American Ninja Warrior Season 8, and we are already over halfway to our goal. of Philadelphia. The adventure took us through which aired in June. I am now working on a

2612 THE POINT FALL 2016 POINTPARK.EDU 27 CLASS NOTES

“40 under 40” honorees in Alexandria, Va. He “From the new editors: Les Temps Modernes, Miracle Network Hospitals. Funds raised by was also appointed to chair the Alexandria City Karter, Gallagher and fellow editor Andrew the Miss Connecticut organization’s titleholders Council’s Child, Youth and Families Collaborative Bland, Ph.D. wrote: “We, the new editors, rec- help Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. Commission. Suppa, who earned his degree in ognize that recent developments in social and Taglia earned the pageant’s Miracle Maker elementary education at Point Park, now works political events call on humanistically trained award, having raised more funds than any other for the Alexandria City Public Schools. The orga- academics and practitioners to redouble their contestant for the cause. “I think that’s one of nization chose Suppa to record segments of his engagement with the world … we seek to the more important jobs of Miss Connecticut, lessons for its professional learning web site and Kevin Gallagher (above) and Justin renew this position, and we want to encourage and I can’t wait to embrace it,” she said. professional development across the division. Karter, graduates of Point Park’s master’s members to draw on their unique philosophi- According to Suppa, “In selecting me they noted program in clinical-community psychology, cal and psychological training and turn their Nick Moran (A&S ’15) writes, “I just got the thoroughness of my plans - something that have been named editors of the American minds and pens toward the world.” According amazing news that I will be interning at Mount I credit Point Park for holding me to a very high Psychological Association’s Society for Hu- to Professor Brent Robbins, “They are very Sinai West! While I am there for the next year bar from the start.” manistic Psychology Newsletter. In the article smart and socially conscientious individuals I will have the opportunity to work with the Brie Gallagher (COM ’06) named ESPN’s top with an incredible depth of knowledge in their Crystal Clear project at the Addictions Institute VoluntEAR for 2016 areas of interest. They really make me proud.” under the supervision of Dr. Joseph Ruggiero. … and six years later, received a master’s I am excited about this because I will get to By Kevin Taylor, Director of Athletic Communications in education from the University of Pitts- work with the LGBTQ population for those burgh. She taught in the Easter Seals school individuals who have substance use issues and A big honor came the way of Brie Gallagher (’06), a former Point Park women’s cross system, which provides special education additional mental health issues.” Moran earned country runner and a production coordinator at ESPN. Gallagher was named the “Team to severely physically and mentally disad- his degree in psychology at Point Park. ESPN VoluntEAR of the Year” for 2015, an award that recognized her as the top overall vantaged children. She eventually became volunteer person of all employees at ESPN, the Worldwide Leader in Sports. Gallagher Easter Seals executive director in Allegheny was honored at the Team ESPN Volunteer of the Year Awards in May 2016. She is based County, retiring in 1986. ‘My husband and at the ESPN location in Charlotte, N.C., and has planned and/or participated in hundreds Beulah Moody, Our Most I both worked until we were 70. I think the of volunteer projects. She accepted her award from Disney Media Networks President Senior Alumna, Turns 100 secret of a good long life is to keep busy Philip Lewis (COPA ’11), played the lead John Skipper and ESPN Senior VP of Corporate Communications Chris LaPlaca. and stay aware of what is going on in the role of the villain in the independent film Beulah Moody (A&S 1968), who earned world,” she said. After retiring, the Moodys Rising Fear about a fictional terrorist bomb- In 2015, she organized many volunteer activities with Special Olympics, which included her bachelor’s degree in early childhood traveled the world, visiting their son as he ing in downtown Pittsburgh. According to the ESPN employee participation at the North Carolina Summer Games. Gallagher was one education at Point Park in 1968, recently worked as a journalist in Moscow, Bonn, filmmaker and star Tom Getty, the movie was of 30 employees of Walt Disney Company to attend the Special Olympics World Games celebrated her 100th birthday. According to Germany, Vienna, Paris, Mexico City, Costa honored at the GI Film Festival, was screened as part of Disney’s Global Service Project. She also created a Unified Bowling team and an article by Kevin Kirkland in the Pittsburgh Rica and Rome. He is now executive vice at a festival in Los Angeles, and is available on recruited volunteers to run in legs of the Unified Relay Across America. Still an avid runner, Post-Gazette, “She was the oldest of three president and executive editor of Fox News. DVD on Amazon.com. Lewis studied cinema the latter project reaches back to her influence as a Point Park cross county team member. children born to Gurney and Nellie Coleman … Mrs. Moody handles her own finances, arts at Point Park. See the trailer at http:// Angela (Goodwin) Sexton (COM ’10) is on July 4, 1916, near Grantsville, Md. Grow- files her own taxes (grudgingly), and reads trailer.risingfear.com. the registration coordinatorPhotos by inChris the OfficeSquier, ofphotojournalism the After major. graduating from Point Park, Gallagher was a programming and production intern at ing up on a farm, she exchanged her black The New York Times daily, completing the University Registrar at Point Park. She earned ESPN in 2007. She has held several posts at ESPN throughout the years with her current travel shoes for white school shoes every crossword puzzle in ink. She leads a monthly Alyssa Taglia (COPA ’14), a native of Wol- her degree in broadcasting in 2010 and is position being a production coordinator II. In that role, some of her duties are to maintain morning when she arrived at a one-room book group, takes a pottery class and is a cott, Conn., was crowned Miss Connecticut currently studying for her master’s degree at personnel schedules, track resource usage and logistics and act as a coordinator for schoolhouse. She skipped second grade member of a society dedicated to helping 2016 on June 18. Taglia represented the Nut- the University. She and Shaun Sexton were College Football Awards and a liaison between production and other ESPN departments. because she was so smart…Mr. Moody was the less advantaged. ... ‘I was born during meg State at the Miss America competition in recently married in Baldwin, Pa. working for a newspaper in Cumberland, the First World War, waited four years during Atlantic City, with finals televised on Sept. 11. Md., when he met her at the dentist’s office. World War II for the man I married and wor- According to the Hartford Courant, “During Courtney Mahronich (A&S ’11, ’12) has Allegheny County. She will work with public They married in 1946 and moved to Pitts- ried about my son during the Vietnam War,’ her year of service as Miss Connecticut, Taglia been named director of trail development for and private property owners, as well as partner- Know someone who burgh, where he worked for the Associated she said. “There have been a few bumps and said she hopes to continue to spread her Friends of the Riverfront in Allegheny County. ing organizations, to make sure the trail building Press before becoming a labor writer for the bruises along the way, but now, under the platform, “Smiles For Seniors: Enriching the Mahronich will be responsible for implement- process moves forward smoothly. Her duties can benefit from a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. They lived in Bethel care of my loving son, his beautiful wife and Lives of Seniors Across America” – a cause ing the trail vision outlined in the 2015-2018 will include community outreach working with Point Park education? Park for 61 years and had one son, John my precious grandchildren, I would say it has she has championed since age 12. Taglia is Friends of the Riverfront Strategic Plan, which Allegheny County and municipalities along the of Ridgewood, N.J. At age 52, Mrs. Moody been a beautiful life, and still is.” Read the also eager to work with the Miss America includes extending the Three Rivers Heritage Allegheny River. PointPark.edu/ReferAStudent earned a bachelor’s degree from Point Park entire Post-Gazette article: bit.ly/2bMreVb Organization’s National Platform – Children’s Trail along the Allegheny River corridor in

28 THE POINT FALL 2016 POINTPARK.EDU 29 WALKING ON AIR Fred McLeod’s journey in broadcasting has taken him from Point Park to the Cleveland Cavaliers’ NBA Championship

by Kevin Taylor

Photos courtesy of NBA Photos.

n June 22, 2016, it was Point championship drought for the city of It was a great experience – the first of the started at KQTV right away. When the the play-by-play voice. A big honor that He had dreams of one day playing Park alumnus Fred McLeod Cleveland. For McLeod, it was his fourth Pioneers’ 11 World Series trips since the Point Park baseball team returned came his way early on was that at 23 professionally. But he found another who had the honor to serve NBA championship ring, which goes founding of the University. But the best to Pittsburgh after a 2-2 showing at years old, he was the youngest sports profession during his time with the as emcee of the Cleveland along with the three others he won as thing that came out of it for McLeod was the World Series, McLeod turned right anchor at a Top 10 market in the country. Pioneers. With the Cavs, McLeod is still OCavaliers’ NBA championship victory the play-by-play voice of the Detroit a job offer. The rest is history. back around and headed to Missouri. That came at WTAW in Cleveland. on top of his game. He has to be with the parade. As the team’s play-by-play voice Pistons. McLeod’s journey in broadcasting “Without baseball, without Point Park, responsibility of covering LeBron James for Fox Sports Ohio, it was McLeod who all began in St. Joseph, Mo., when the In a story that McLeod has told many and without that internship with Sam He also spent time at WSTV in Steubenville and NBA champs on a daily basis. was on the microphone in front of the Point Park baseball team made the trip times when his Point Park days come Nover at Channel 11, I don’t know that it and KPIX in San Francisco. Next came estimated 1.3 million people in attend- to the 1974 NAIA World Series during up, he faked an arm injury on one of the would have worked out the same way,” 24 years as a sports anchor at stations Motivation Is Key ance. It was a big moment in McLeod’s his senior year. Pioneers’ practice days in St. Joseph, Mo. said McLeod. in Detroit, where he was also the voice of career. And that’s saying something. He cut a demo tape of his broadcasting the NBA’s Pistons. A Strongsville, Ohio, “I’m as motivated now as I was 30 years Because in a sports broadcasting career Pioneer Baseball Standout work and took it to KQTV, where he First Start in Broadcasting native, McLeod grew up going to Cleve- ago,” he said. “You have to be. There are that has spanned 42 years, McLeod has auditioned at the local station. KQTV had land Indians and Browns games. In high a lot of people who I’m sure want my job. enjoyed many big moments. A standout pitcher for the Pioneers, a pressing need for a sports anchor. And That was the start of his professional school, his family moved to Elizabeth, Pa., The key is to have no entitlement – you McLeod made the most of that trip to the coming off an internship with Sam Nover career in sports broadcasting. He’s had and he graduated from Elizabeth Forward get out of it what you put in. It is much The 2016 NBA title for the Cavs was a World Series. The Pioneers made a run to at Channel 11 in Pittsburgh, McLeod had several stops along the way, and the last High School south of Pittsburgh. Baseball harder than most would think, and it is all monumental event as it ended a 52-year the semifinals, and McLeod got to pitch. the chops for the job. He was hired and 10 seasons he’s worked for the Cavs as was what mainly led him to Point Park. about preparation.”

203012 THE POINT FALL 2016 POINTPARK.EDU 31 SPORTS ROUNDUP

Point Park cross country and track and field runner Katie Guarnaccia qualified for the NAIA national championships in the fall, winter and spring. She was a national qualifier and KIAC champion in cross country and qualified for nationals in indoor (5,000 M) and outdoor track and field (10,000 M). Photo courtesy of NAIA.

 BASEBALL  SOFTBALL  GOLF The Pioneers’ baseball team The Point Park softball placed third The Point Park golf teams had the finished in third place in the KIAC in the KIAC and made another run men finish second and women take during the regular season and to the KIAC Tournament semifinals. third at the KIAC championship finished with a record of 28-24 The Pioneers ended up 23-19 overall, tournament. It was a rebuilding overall and 20-8 KIAC. It was a 14-4 KIAC with a very young team. year for both squads. The men had season filled with many key injuries, Point Park’s youth showed during three freshmen and a sophomore which caught up to Point Park in its spring trip to Florida, but the team in the lineup, which came up just the end. The Pioneers had four finished strong going 22-10 the rest short of a fourth-straight KIAC title. all-conference players in pitchers of the way. Freshman pitcher The women’s team also had three Jason Kim and Jarrad Brown, Ashley Iagnemma was named the freshmen starting but managed a center fielder Demetrius Moorer KIAC Newcomer of the Year. solid third place in the conference. and shortstop Jake Horew. Photos courtesy of NBA Photos.

field. It is still something that Point Park In today’s 140-character world, he continues to take pride in, as evidenced by stresses that brevity is a key. “You have the fall 2016 opening of the new Center to get people’s attention, be brief and Pioneers Keep the for Media Innovation (see page18). be descriptive.” He has seen the sports Commissioner’s Cup The includes broadcasting world come full circle from 13 members from five different states – Hands On Experience his first job at KQTV. “You have to be For the second year in a row and the Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Indiana McLeod tirelessly works in preparation able to write, shoot and edit your video third time in four years, the Point Park and Kentucky. The Ohio River originates for each broadcast. It is something “Getting the hands-on experience in front packages. You have to be able to do it all. University athletic department claimed at , just blocks from the that he learned at Point Park and was of the camera and behind the camera as That’s the way it was back then, and we the KIAC Commissioner’s All-Sports Cup Pioneers’ campus, and flows through the instilled during in internship at Channel well as the opportunity for internships is are seeing that again now. as the top overall athletic department in River States Conference center of the conference. 11. “No one is going to out-work me,” huge,” he said. “Working with Sam [Nover] the KIAC for 2015-16. McLeod said. “Whether it’s a preseason opened up many doors.” The media “And writing is a skill that you must have. Effective July 1, 2016, the KIAC “This is the continuation of the positive game or the playoffs, the approach has innovation that McLeod sees as the most I’ve always had a love of writing. And I am The Pioneers placed first, second or third changed its name to the River States change that is going on with our conference,” to be the same.” influential is the advent of Twitter. It gives proud of my vocabulary. I’m a storyteller, in the KIAC in each of its 13 varsity sports Conference. According to a statement said Point Park Director of Athletics Dan the media an “immediate connection and it all starts with writing.” v to keep the Cup. It was an historic win by the conference, which Point Park has Swalga. “We are very excited about the An aspect of Point Park that benefitted to each of the fans.” He should know. because the Kentucky Intercollegiate been a member of since 2012, the new transition to River States Conference, him was the ability to get hands-on He leads all current NBA play-by-play Kevin Taylor is director of athletic Athletic Conference has changed its name was selected “to best reflect the which is a very beneficial change for us experience within the broadcasting broadcasters in Twitter followers. communications at Point Park. name after 100 years of existence. current membership.” based in Pittsburgh.”

32 THE POINT FALL 2016 POINTPARK.EDU 33 NON PROFIT ORGANIZATION

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