Lucky 13 The Towson University Dance Team pulled off the unthinkable, taking home the National Dance Alliance (NDA) Collegiate National Championship trophy for the thirteenth year in a row. No triskaidekaphobia among this 27-member dance squad. Coached by Tom Cascella, professor of theatre arts, TU was the top seed going into the championship, held in Daytona Beach. They won the Division I title, defeating Harvard, James Madison, Columbia University and Boston University, among others, with their fast-paced precision dances which combine hip-hop, jazz, funk and pom routines. You can view a video and a complete list of competition results at www.nda.varsity.com. DEPARTMENTS FEATURES Hospital tonewheights. Bradley S. Chambers ‘91 istakingUnionMemorial medstar on Towson’s pastanditsimpressiveagendaforthefuture. In thewaning daysofhispresidencyRobertCaretreflects end Keeping the Theatre Departmentinstitches. patterns students whowant tomake asimilarjourney. from TU to Wall Street. Hereturnedtocampusadvise Goldman SachsanalystScottMarchakitus’92forgedapath taking got involved. Nowthesky’s thelimit. Army anditseliteSpaceMissileDefenseCommand The futurelooked bleakforBrendanCurran ’07. Then the space www.towsonalumnimagazine.com * New LacrosseCoach Commencement Speeches President’s Trip toChina web to Recovery Road Overcoming Adversity class Gifts That Transform Foundation ScholarsLuncheon philanthropy Homecoming 2011 Schedule Tapping In Swing Time alumni news president Available onlyat

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Published three times a year by the Division of University Advancement for Towson University’s alumni, faculty, staff and friends. Please send comments and contributions to Towson, University Relations, Towson University, 8000 York Rd., Towson, MD 21252-0001. Telephone: 410-704-2230. Please send address changes to Alumni Relations, Towson University, 8000 York Rd., Towson, MD 21252-0001.

am delighted to have the opportunity to write to you Marcia G. Welsh Ias interim president of Towson University. As many Interim President of you know, President Robert L. Caret has assumed the Gary N. Rubin Vice President, University Advancement presidency of the University of Massachusetts. We applaud his innumerable contributions to Towson and wish him Ginny Cook Editor every success in his new role. A national search is under way for Towson University’s next president, the man or Lori Armstrong Associate Vice President, Alumni Relations woman who will lead this institution in the coming years. As we await a new president, I want to assure you that Lori Marchetti Art Director/Designer your university is continuing on the path to ever-increasing Kanji Takeno excellence. I have been the university’s provost for the Staff Photographer past two years and have had the opportunity to work Assistant Photographer with the outstanding faculty at Towson as we educate Desirée Stover the state’s leaders of tomorrow. Towson is becoming the A national Designers institution of choice for more and more Maryland students Katie Bryson, Pat Dideriksen, search is and is providing them with a top-quality education, Chris Komisar and Kathy Malanowski under way “ an environment that is both stimulating and safe, and Contributors numerous opportunities to be part of a broader learning Jeri Bielas, Alex Duncan, Daniel Fox, for Towson Emily Koch and Jan Lucas University’s community. Your continued involvement in Towson and the many Office of Alumni Relations 410-704-2234 or 800-887-8152 next president, different ways in which you support the efforts of the Towson University’s policies, programs and activities the man or university are critical factors in the progress that we are comply with federal and state laws and University System making. I hope you’ll visit the campus, be an advocate of Maryland regulations prohibiting discrimination on woman who the basis of race, color, religion, age, national origin, for us, and keep taking pride in your alma mater. sex, disability and sexual orientation. Towson University will lead this is a smoke-free campus. www.towson.edu institution in www.towsonalumnimagazine.com the coming years. Marcia G. Welsh eco box

Using this combination of Interim President papers saves the following: WOOD USE: 7 TONS

NET ENERGY: 21,000,000 BTUs

” GREENHOUSE GASES: 5,134 LBS CO2

WASTEWATER: 23,149 GALLONS

SOLID WASTE: 1,467 POUNDS

The Towson text pages are printed on forest-friendly Utopia Dull paper. The cover is printed on Utopia Gloss using Eco-Pride inks. Environmental impact estimates were made 2 towson summer 2011 using the Environmental Defense Paper Calculator. news & notes

Published three times a year by the Division of University Advancement for Towson University’s alumni, faculty, staff and friends. Please send comments and contributions to Towson, University Relations, Towson University, 8000 York Rd., Towson, MD 21252-0001. Construction Begins on Tiger Arena High Hoops Telephone: 410-704-2230. Please send address CEREMONIAL DIG SIGNALS START OF $68 MILLION SPORTS VENUE NBA PICKS GARY NEAL ’07 FOR ALL-ROOKIE TEAM changes to Alumni Relations, Towson University, 8000 York Rd., Towson, MD 21252-0001. Marcia G. Welsh University officials “Towson University When Gary Neal ’07 graduated from Towson, Interim President and local dignitaries is already an important the basketball standout was ignored by the Gary N. Rubin wielded shovels May 10 part of this community NBA. Not anymore. Vice President, University Advancement for the groundbreaking with over 25,000 stu- Neal, who played in Europe before earning Ginny Cook Editor ceremony that signaled dents, faculty and staff a spot as a guard with the San Antonio Spurs, the beginning of con- who all contribute to was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team in Lori Armstrong Associate Vice President, Alumni Relations struction for the new the thriving businesses May. He is only the second undrafted player to

Lori Marchetti $68 million, 5,200-seat and vibrant culture of ever earn that honor. Art Director/Designer Tiger Arena. downtown Towson,” Neal joins Kings Center DeMarcus Cousins, Kanji Takeno “This new arena will he adds. “This arena Clippers forward Blake Griffin, Knicks guard Staff Photographer be a premiere facility in is going to bring even Landry Fields and Wizards guard John Wall. Assistant Photographer our athletic conference,” more fans, more alumni, Neal played in 80 games, averaging 9.8 Desirée Stover says Marcia Welsh, TU students and parents points, 2.5 rebounds and 1.2 assists. He shot Designers interim president. “It is Dirt will make way for the Tiger Arena, a new home to this university and 45.1 percent from the field, 41.9 percent from Katie Bryson, Pat Dideriksen, for TU sports. Chris Komisar and Kathy Malanowski long overdue.” give us a chance to make them a part of 3-point territory and 80.8 percent from the Contributors The arena will be home to TU volleyball, the greater Towson community.” free-throw line. Jeri Bielas, Alex Duncan, Daniel Fox, gymnastics and basketball programs. The The LEED-certified building will include Neal was among the dignitaries who Emily Koch and Jan Lucas venue will feature approximately five premium a 1,500 sq. ft. hospitality room, a 680 sq. ft. participated in the Tiger Arena groundbreaking Office of Alumni Relations 410-704-2234 or 800-887-8152 mezzanine-level private suites, approximately multipurpose room on the mezzanine and an in May and said he hopes the new arena will 340 premium club seats around the top of 800 sq. ft. Tiger Hall of Fame Room on the Towson University’s policies, programs and activities energize TU’s basketball program. comply with federal and state laws and University System the lower bowl and 120 courtside seats. The concourse level. A new state-of-the-art mul- of Maryland regulations prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, age, national origin, interior is column free, providing unobstructed timedia studio will also be constructed that sex, disability and sexual orientation. Towson University is a smoke-free campus. views from anywhere in the arena. will be the nerve center of all Tigervision video www.towson.edu Officials hope the new building will make board operations for the arena and Unitas www.towsonalumnimagazine.com it easier to recruit top basketball players and Stadium. The new arena will feature a center- be an economic engine for the community. hung scoreboard along with a 360-degree “As we break ground today we will be video fascia display. eco box adding 400 construction jobs to this Tiger Arena is the name of the building community,” says Baltimore County Executive pending a corporate sponsorship. Kevin Kamenetz. “These jobs are going to The venue’s construction history will be help fuel the recovery that is happening all chronicled through the www.TigerArena.com

over our county.” website. Gary Neal

Want to find out what Scott Pelley (LEFT), CBS Evening News anchor and a veteran 60 Minutes correspondent, had to say to the 2011 graduates of the College of Fine Arts and Communication? A video of his speech and that of Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Taylor Branch, who spoke to 2011 College of Liberal Arts graduates, is available at www.towsonalumnimagazine.com. See page 40 for more details.

summer 2011 towson 3 news & notes

Whether shooting a I think that’s our secret music video silently in weapon,” says Karolenko. Cook Library—“the most On Point ridiculous thing we’ve ever PSA Winners done”— or writing a song With close to 30 videos, Crime may not pay but numerous awards and an producing public service ever-expanding fan base, Sharpened announcements about it the band Sharpened sure does. Crayons is beginning to Crayons has Just ask six Towson make its mark. nearly a dozen students who are majoring Since 2008, TU students in electronic media and Ashley Adams Henry Basta and Jay local and national film. They won scholarships Karolenko have been Adams rolled up 3,858 film awards, from the MD/DC Anti Car combining their talents points in five events and Theft Committee for their in film and music to create including a established a long jump video and radio spots. videos that are as funny record with her leap of 19’ People’s Choice Daniel Keenan, Joseph as they are quirky. 5.5”, erasing the old record Freeman and Yuri Butler “We actually came up in a national PBS of 18’ 11.75.” won the video competition with the name by mistake, video contest. while Ashleigh Coffelt, Alex but we think it’s perfect,” Four-time Champs Fishman and Branden Leav- admits Karolenko, a junior Watch Jay Karolenko’s about childhood nostalgias ens won for radio spots. They did it again. The (left) and Henry Basta’s majoring in music educa- like Power Rangers, Sharp- Each student received TU women’s swimming video about TU – http:// tion. “With a box of youtu.be/SK0RiOOiTTo ened Crayons has demon- a $500 scholarship. and diving team won their sharpened crayons, the strated that it doesn’t take Butler and Fishman fourth straight Colonial possibilities are itself too seriously. earned grand-prize Athletic Association endless.” “It’s a real collabora- honors in video and radio, championship with another Their tion,” explains respectively, at an awards outstanding performance. growing Basta, a mass ceremony in February at The Tigers became the portfolio communica- the 2011 Motor Trend second team in CAA his- will attest tion major who International Auto Show at tory to win four straight to that. recently graduated. the Baltimore City Conven- women’s swimming and “We meet halfway tion Center. Each received diving titles. with the lyrics, Jay writes an additional $1,500. Senior Meredith Budner the music and I film the Watch and listen at was named the CAA Cham- videos.” www.youtube.com/ pionship’s Most Outstand- They have limited watch?v=oR2clz2bFu4 ing Swimmer while Coach equipment and little to Pat Mead earned his fourth no budget—“our biggest consecutive CAA Women’s budget was for ‘Pineapples Swimming Coach of the mhmmm,’ when we spent Year award. $8 on pineapples”—but A Record Leap they do have nearly a Senior Ashley Adams dozen local and national won the coveted pen- film awards, including a tathlon title, an award Pride and Passion People’s Choice in a na- bestowed on the Eastern tional PBS video contest. College Athletic Confer- Cook Library scored a What does the future hold ence’s best all-around home run when it presented for this productive pair? female indoor track athlete. “Pride and Passion: The They won’t speculate. Her victory in Boston last African American Baseball “People don’t know what March gave TU its first Experience.” to expect from us and track and field champion The traveling exhibition in the program’s history. showcased the accomplish- 4 towson summer 2011 summer 2011 towson 5 news & notes

ments of African Americans Weather or Not Picking a Pro Performance, looked at as they struggled to find 640 players drafted from Stormy weather can When it comes to evalu- equality on the baseball 2002 through 2004. It never dampen the univer- ating football players at field. Visitors learned about found that good sity’s spirit. Last January, the NFL scouting combine, Andrew Rube Foster, who TU received its StormReady perhaps the league should formed the Negro National Supporter certification just punt. League in 1920; Jackie from the National Weather Two studies show that Robinson, who broke the Service and the Baltimore the numbers from drills and color barrier when Branch County Office of Emer- an intelligence test that Rickey, a Major League gency Management. the league uses to assess Baseball executive, signed To earn its certification, NFL hopefuls don’t add up him to play for the Brook- TU demonstrated storm when it comes to predict- lyn Dodgers in 1947; and preparation planning, ing a player’s performance Emmett Ashford, the first scores education and awareness. on the field. black umpire in the major on fitness Specific qualifications Experience in the game leagues. The American tests at the include establishing a is what should count on a Library Association, the combine did not 24-hour warning point gridiron resume. ”Past per- National Endowment for predict performance in and emergency operations formance in college is the the NFL as well as past center; creating a system more important predictor,” performance in college did. to monitor local weather says John Michel ’99, TU In other words, players conditions; and develop- assistant professor of man- who are best at running ing a formal hazardous agement, and a co-author a 40-yard dash, bench weather plan. of both studies. He points pressing 250 pounds or to TU’s own Jermon Bush- high-jumping, among other rod ’07, offensive tackle for MBA a Winner physical tests, do not make the Saints, as “someone the best blockers, tacklers, The 2012 edition of U.S. who played really well in Andrew “Rube” Foster started the rushers or passers. Negro National League in 1920. News & World Report’s college” and continued to In a prior study, Michel, Best Graduate Schools do the same in the NFL. the Humanities and the recognizes the Towson Lyons and Hoffman National Baseball Hall examined intelligence MBA program. A joint “Past performance of Fame sponsored the venture with the University scores from the Wonderlic exhibit. of Baltimore, the program in college is the Test of 762 players during TU hosted related events three draft years. Results has been co-located in more important which included a presenta- TU’s College of Business published in a 2009 issue tion by Martha Ackmann, and Economics and UB’s predictor.” of Human Performance journalist and author of showed that high scores Merrick School of Business —Assistant Professor John Michel Curveball: The Remark- since 2006. failed to predict perfor- able Story of Toni Stone mance in a game. This MBA has a growing Michel along with Brian the First Woman to Play Says Michel, “Vince reputation for its high- Lyons, California State- Professional Baseball in Lombardi said, ‘Mental quality faculty, flexible Fresno, Brian Hoffman, the Negro League and toughness is essential to scheduling and wide array University of Georgia and talks by David Zang, TU success,’ but based on of specialized content Kevin Williams, SUNY- professor of kinesiology, what we found it may designed to meet the needs Albany, conducted two on the thousands of black be better to assess fluid of regional employers. It is studies to measure how baseball players who, intelligence, such as the also the only area program data from the combine— despite being segregated recognition of offensive that offers students the the four-day job interview by law, made significant or defensive schemes. It choice of on-campus and the NFL conducts each achievements on the field would also be worthwhile online classes. year—stacks up against in their own league. to assess player personality job performance in the to see how someone will league. fit with other members Their most recent study, of a team.” published in April in Human 4 towson summer 2011 summer 2011 towson 5

news & notes

Marcia G. Welsh Named TU Interim President TU PROVOST AND VICE PRESIDENT OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS BEGAN NEW APPOINTMENT APRIL 20

Whether she’s giv- Health Science Center in San Antonio in the late ’70s. ing opening remarks After earning her doctoral degree, she interviewed for at the Women in many faculty positions but was rejected. “I was wearing Science Forum or nail polish and was later told I couldn’t be serious about handing out diplomas science if I painted my nails,” she recalls. On another occa- at graduation, Marcia sion she was told she was “too small to be an anatomist.” G. Welsh connects The snub only emblazoned her resolve. She went on to with her audience. perform electron microscope studies on the pineal gland They listen. They and later moved into academic administration. nod. They respond. Welsh spent seven years as senior vice president for William E. Kirwan, academic affairs and provost at Adelphi University in chancellor of the New York where she was named one of Long Island’s U.S. Army Lt. Col. Chris Gervais and U.S. Army Col. Maria Gervais, University System of Maryland, recognized her talent Top 50 Women and where she led a drive to increase the who traveled from Iraq to see their daughter Brandi graduate when he asked her to become interim president of Towson number of female and minority faculty. She also advocated from TU’s Fisher College, University after TU President Robert Caret announced his for the introduction of family-friendly policies, including presented a flag that flew over a Baghdad Army base to TU resignation to lead the University of Massachusetts system. an extension of the tenure review process for faculty Interim President Marcia Welsh. He needed someone who following the birth or could not only manage the adoption of a child. business of the university “I like to solve problems. “I like to solve problems,” but also maintain the The lack of women faculty Welsh says. “And the lack of attachments—with students, women faculty and tenure issues ? and tenure issues were items ] faculty, staff and alumni— were items that could be did you that make the institution thrive. that could be addressed addressed quickly and fairly.” know? “I am confident that her quickly and fairly.” Welsh was also associate TU will host the experience and success as a provost and dean of the fourth Maryland higher education administrator —Marcia Welsh graduate school at the Stem Cell Research will serve Towson University University of South Carolina. Symposium on well during this transition “I am honored to be selected Oct. 6 in the West period,” says Kirwan. as interim president of Towson,” Welsh adds. “I have Village Commons. Welsh knows Towson, having served as its provost and come to love the Towson community and take pride in the vice president for academic affairs since 2009. She took over remarkable growth of this institution both in quantity and the interim president post on April 20 and will stay in the job quality. During this transition period I will work to continue until Caret’s successor is named and arrives on campus. the forward momentum Towson has attained in recent During decades of work, first as an anatomist and later years.” as an academic administrator, Welsh has rallied to promote Welsh appointed Terry Cooney, dean of the College women in the sciences because she felt the sting of gender of Liberal Arts since 2006, as interim provost. Before bias earlier in her career. coming to Towson, he was academic vice president at Despite a lack of female role models in science, she the University of Puget Sound. pursued a Ph.D. in anatomy from the University of Texas

6 towson summer 2011 summer 2011 towson 7 news & notes

What’s New

Basketball Coach COFAC Dean Honors College Dean Unsung Hero Pat Skerry, assistant Susan Picinich is the Joseph McGinn, director Mary Lashley, TU coach at the University new dean of the of the Global Honors professor of community ? of Pittsburgh, became College of Fine Arts and Program at Lock Haven health nursing, is one ] Towson University’s Communication effective University in Pennsylvania, of two unsung heroes did you know? head men’s basketball July 1. She replaces takes over as the new recognized by Association coach in April. Skerry’s Christopher “Kit” Spicer, dean of TU’s Honors of Fundraising TU received the coaching resume covers who is moving to the College at the end of Professionals for an Certified Smoke- 19 years, most recently at west coast. Picinich came June. McGinn earned his oral health program for Free Workplace Pittsburgh 2010-11 and from the University of Ph.D. in philosophy at homeless men. For five Award from the Providence 2008-10. Southern Maine where Pennsylvania State years, the oral health South Atlantic At Pitt, he helped secure she was special assistant University, an M.A. in program has provided Division of one of the Top 15 to the provost for philosophy at the access to oral health care the American recruiting classes in the international education University of Waterloo for some 600 homeless Cancer Society, country according to and previously served (Canada), and a B.A. in people through the for the univer- ESPN.com. He takes over as associate and interim philosophy and history Helping Up Mission sity’s outstanding a team with a dismal dean of the College of at the University of in Baltimore City. It contributions to record last season, losing Arts and Sciences as well Manitoba. He was also a offers the opportunity the global fight 19 games in a row. Says as chair and professor of Commonwealth Scholar for students in nursing against cancer. Skerry, “Playing in the its theatre department. In at Edinburgh University in and dentistry to work nation’s top non-BCS 2009, Picinich received Scotland. He has a strong with homeless and conference, we will need a Fulbright Scholar grant record of commitment to underserved populations. to work hard and play to lecture at the National developing the intellectual “I feel especially with TU toughness, both Academy of Theatre interests and cultivating privileged to be part of key characteristics I have and Film Arts in Sofia, the talents of honors the Towson University learned from all the Bulgaria. She has an students to enable them community where coaches I worked with M.F.A in theatre (costume to become mature scholars commitment to service during my career.” design) from the pursuing excellence in all and inspiring students University of Michigan that they do. to live in service to others and an M.A. in theatre is so highly valued,” (theatre history) from the Lashley says. State University of New York Albany.

6 towson summer 2011 summer 2011 towson 7 Space to Grow Brendan Curran’s future looked bleak. Then the Army and its elite Space and Missile Defense Command got involved. Now the sky’s the limit. BY BILL SHERIDAN

It’s mid-December 2010, and Brendan Curran’s need to think long and hard about what head is spinning. you want to do.’” “Yesterday I was zooming around the Auto- In a way, the answer found him. bahn in Frankfurt,” says the 2007 TU graduate. “Two days ago I was discussing missile defense A LEADER IN WAITING operations in Europe. Four days ago I was doing It started when he enlisted in the Army in satellite operations in Germany. Six days ago I 1999. He was an engineer first and then moved was in Qatar serving Thanksgiving dinner to the up to intelligence analyst, spending time in Iraq troops, and a week before that I was in Bahrain and finding a level of maturity and commitment discussing commercial imagery support for that he didn’t know he had. Pakistani flood relief.” He distinguished himself enough to convince For someone as well-versed in military commu- the Army brass to take nications and space defense as Curran, that might a chance on him. Im- not be unusual. pressed by his leadership Look into his background, though, and you’ll qualities, they sent him to “I want that understand why that tour has left him dizzy. Towson to earn his degree Before the military, before deployments to Iraq and come out on the private to be able and Kuwait and a stint as adjutant to the deputy other side as an officer. commanding general of the Army’s elite Space and He studied philosophy to access the Missile Defense Command, before yet another from 2004 to 2007, earn- promotion to deputy commander of an Army ing his degree in just three imagery he needs Space Support Team in Afghanistan—before all years and graduating as a of that, Curran’s goals were pretty simple. second lieutenant. Seven before he walks “The biggest decision I had to make back then months later, he was serv- off his base in was import or domestic at the bar,” he says with ing as executive officer a laugh. for a signal company in Afghanistan.” “Back then” was the late 1990s, and Curran Kuwait, where he pro- was lost. A 1996 graduate of Calvert Hall, he had vided information man- —Brendan Curran ’07 no drive, no prospects and, seemingly, no future. agement for the Army’s “I didn’t have any vision back then,” he says. presence throughout southwest Asia. “I didn’t have any responsibilities. I didn’t know Not long after, Curran went to space. what I was capable of. It wasn’t a go-to-war or In February 2009 he joined the Space and go-to-jail scenario, but my father told me, ‘You Missile Defense Command in Colorado Springs,

summer 2011 towson 9 Colo., a specialized agency within the Army that uses space-based resources to provide troops on the ground with resources such as satellite communications, imagery and missile warnings. His job there was to serve as aide de camp to Brig. Gen. Kurt Story, who at the time was the Space and Missile Defense Command’s deputy commanding general for operations. “I was in that general’s hip pocket 24 hours a day,” Curran says. “I made sure he had what he needed to do his job. I traveled with him everywhere, and it gave me a better understanding of the strategic vision of the Army.” It gave him something more as well—a mentor who took a personal interest in advancing Curran’s career. “He looked at this role for me as an opportunity for mentorship, to expand my horizons, to understand how the big Army works,” Curran says. “I’ve never had a boss in such high rank treat me with such respect. It’s the chance of a military lifetime to receive that kind of tutelage.”

(Photos, clockwise from left) His wife Carrie Arnold and Curran pose It was clear from the start that Story had bigger things at the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Ball. in mind for Curran. Early on, Story announced that he

Somewhere in Iraq. planned to “fire” Curran after two years—not because of incompetence, but because Story wanted to push Curran After hiking to the top of the Manitou Springs Incline in the Rocky Mountains, Curran (right) was sworn in as captain by Brig. Gen. to climb up the next rung of his career ladder. Story (left). Sure enough, in January 2011 Curran left his post as Story’s aide de camp and accepted a new position with the Second Space Company of the Army’s First Space Battalion. There, he serves as deputy commander of an Army Space Support Team (or ARSST) whose mission is to “bring space to the war fighter.” “I make sure they have access to the satellites and imagery they need on the ground,” he says. “I want that

10 towson summer 2011 Telling Project Veteran voices impart war and its aftermath Veterans took center stage to share son and how his death affected his life. intimate stories of life after war when TU “My wife talked about her connection hosted Telling: Baltimore, Md., last May at to the military through me and how Stephens Hall. she, too, was affected by Nick’s death They discussed the impact of war on without ever meeting him. My struggle individuals and communities, and the became hers in ways I wasn’t aware of struggles vets have transitioning back to until this process began,” Young says. civilian life. Telling: Baltimore, Md. is a collaboration Tracy Miller ’93 M.S., academic adviser of the Veteran Artist Program, the Towson and coordinator of TU’s National Student University Veterans Center and the Texas- Exchange, discussed her emotional journey based Telling Project. It provides a unique after her son Nicholas L. Ziolkowski, was opportunity for military veterans and their killed in Iraq on November 14, 2004 family members to speak, and for their fighting in the city of Fallujah. communities to listen. Patrick Young ‘10, TU coordinator of Telling Project was conceived by creator veteran’s services, and his wife Meghan, Jonathan Wei. Telling: Baltimore, Md. is chronicled his life in the Marine Corps the most recent in a series of innovative from boot camp to active duty to home. performances that have been appearing He included his relationship with Miller’s in cities across the United States.

private to be able to access the imagery he needs before he “From now on if I ever see a lackluster speaker hosted walks off his base in Afghanistan. I want him to have every by the department, I will turn to her and whisper ‘I hope resource he needs to ensure his success.” you’re proud of yourself.’” It’s an interesting paradox—the use of space-based tech- In the meantime, Curran marvels at how far he’s come nology to battle our low-tech enemies in the war on terror. from directionless days before the Army. He talks now of Curran, though, says it’s simply the reality of the modern going back to school and getting his master’s degree and U.S. military. Today’s soldiers need GPS to navigate, satel- being a commanding officer. lites to communicate and imagery to gain the upper hand. “I want to put myself in a position to have a demanding “That’s one way in which our military has changed over job and be successful, to be part of the solution in any role the years—our reliance on technology,” he says. “That’s I play,” he says. something our adversaries aren’t relying on.” He marvels, too, at the role his Towson education has played in his career to date. On the surface, philosophy and POINTS OF INSPIRATION the military might seem like polar opposites, but Curran Curran deployed in late March to Afghanistan, where sees it differently. he joined his six-person ARSST for a year-long mission of “The philosophy program made me successful,” he says. providing troops with “space force enhancement.” “It helped me focus and taught me not just how to ask Before he left, though, he had a vow to keep. When he questions but, more important, how to listen.” accepted his new position in January, Curran promised his It’s no surprise, then, that Curran draws inspiration not fiancée, Carrie Arnold, that they would get married before from success itself, but from the camaraderie of military life his next deployment. “Little did I know that would happen and the goal of serving others. Experience those things, he within four months,” he laughs. says, and you’ll find success. They were married in a small, intimate ceremony on “Any leader should tell you that working with a team March 12. makes it all worthwhile,” he says. “Working with the sol- In lieu of wedding gifts, Curran asked people to donate diers, the warrant officers, the non-commissioned officers to the TowsonFund, specifically the philosophy department. on a problem, to develop solutions and implement them— He’s also quick to include a “full disclosure,” about it’s that sense of accomplishment that drives me. Is that his request. “I don’t know for certain if anyone donated inspiration? I don’t know. My inspiration is being able to to Towson for a wedding gift,” Curran says. “My lovely accomplish anything that’s put in front of me.” n bride undercut me and listed her charity, The Alzheimer’s Association, as well, in the wedding announcement. That’s Bill Sheridan is a freelance writer based in St. Louis, Mo. tough to compete with.

summer 2011 towson 11 Taking Care of Business Students Goldman Sachs analyst Scott Marchakitus ’92 forged a path from TU to Wall Street. He returned to campus to advise students who want to make a similar journey.

By Ginny Cook • Photo by Kanji Takeno

apQuest says the drive from Towson to In fact, he graduated with a business degree just months M Wall Street takes about three and a half hours. before TU’s College of Business and Economics earned its Scott Marchakitus ’92 knows the trip can take years. accreditation in 1992 from AACSB (Association to Marchakitus is a senior analyst in the New York City Advance Collegiate Schools of Business). office of Goldman Sachs, where he is in charge of the When he couldn’t find a job after graduation, U.S. telecommunications, media and technology credit Marchakitus decided to hit the books again, enrolling research group. He also covers the major European in graduate school at the University of Baltimore. There telecom operators. he met an executive from Citibank and landed a job as a But to get to New York’s financial district, Marchakitus financial analyst within a week. What’s more, the position traveled a road laden with hours of study, months of came with tuition benefits. painstaking effort and years of lengthy work days that He worked at the bank from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., then neither began at nine nor ended at five. went to school at night, graduating in two years with a He visited TU in February to give tips on resume master’s degree in finance. Despite the intense workload, writing, interviewing and networking. During three “If anyone is going to pay for your education, take the presentations, he talked to students from the College of offer,” he advises. Business and Economics, the SAGE program and those By 1994, Marchakitus had two degrees and a dogged in student government. This is the first time his talks have determination to land a job in New York City. He soon been somewhat formal, although he has come back to joined J.P. Morgan and spent 10 years in their New York campus for several years to provide a roadmap of sorts and London offices on the credit research team. for students looking to succeed. “This was my Ivy League experience,” he tells the stu- Marchakitus knows the terrain. He’s walked in dents, urging them to “take a lesser job at a better firm if it their shoes. brings you closer to your goal. Do a good job in whatever “I was not an Ivy Leaguer,” he says. your role is. Then, with commitment and determination, you can move up.”

12 towson summer 2011 He did, seeking out mentors at J.P. a problem and fix it with results that “And you need to make a connec- Morgan who urged him to further can be measured. tion,” Marchakitus notes. “I saw 30 his financial education. By 1996, he But he warns students to omit kids in two months. They need to had earned a certificate in financial any items “you cannot explain or leave a lasting impression on me.” and credit analysis from New York support,” citing a candidate who He urges students to come to inter- University. In 1999, he became a CFA professed to be fluent in Spanish views with five good questions and charterholder. but couldn’t conjure up a phrase to to listen and make eye contact with Marchakitus became a vice presi- answer a basic question. “There’s a the interviewer. Enthusiasm and solid dent at Goldman Sachs in 2004 and difference between being conversa- communication skills also make can- two years later moved up to managing tional and fluent,” he explains. “Do didates stand out. “Be more excited director. not misrepresent yourself.” rather than a deadbeat,” he says, and His tasks are different every day, find ways to maintain that enthusiasm, but his primary responsibility is to even if there are multiple interviews. interpret news for traders and give Before he was hired at Goldman investment advice. But he describes Sachs, Marchakitus says he went his job as more “like a crime thriller. through a series of interviews, meeting I uncover facts and clues about which with 20 or more people. company is better financially. I peel back the layers, uncovering a com- pany’s strengths and the advantages of “Take a lesser job at a better their products,” he says. He compiles that information, firm if it brings you closer transforming it into “a persuasive to your goal.” debate with three bullet points. I have less than a minute on the trading floor,” to convince brokers to invest, Networking is key he explains. “They either love or hate After the final handshake, networking what I have to say.” can make a difference in keeping a candidate and his or her resume on One page of life Scott Marchakitus ’92 top of the pile. While he may receive a mixed Send personal thank-you notes response from brokers, it’s clear that Make a connection and queries, Marchakitus advises. Be TU students are engrossed by his Marchakitus also advocates that persistent, though he acknowledges message. No one is texting. Laptops students come prepared to be “there is a fine line between being are closed. When Marchakitus interviewed. persistent and being annoying.” begins to discuss resumes, what he “A resume gets you in the door, but Whether in an office or seeking that calls “your life on a piece of paper,” don’t fumble the ball when you get first job, Marchakitus tells students students pick up their pens to take in,” he says. “Know yourself and your to “find someone three years your notes. resume.” senior. Ask them how they got to their He hands out examples of good Practice fielding questions with position. Seek their advice. Tell them, resumes—names blacked out—from a friend or an older relative. ‘I want to do what you do. How do I the last six interns hired by Goldman Students should also be well informed get there?’” Sachs. The credentials are stellar— about the company, its mission and He still practices what he preaches, near perfect SAT scores, copious the people they will meet in the inter- despite nearly 20 years in the financial awards, and excellent work or intern view. Research is important, too, world. Marchakitus has a goal and a experience. Marchakitus says. “If an applicant mentor to guide him. Marchakitus points out the basic can’t even research what I do, I would Of the 35,000 employees world- building blocks of these resumes are have a hard time trusting them to wide at Goldman Sachs, only 6.7 universal—education, experience, conduct investment research.” percent have Marchakitus’ title of awards, and special skills or hobbies. Read relevant publications, he adds. managing director. Fewer still—1.5 He tells students to focus on their “For the financial world, readThe percent—are partners. strengths—in the classroom, at work Wall Street Journal and keep abreast “My goal is to be a partner,” he and during leisure time. of current events. If your goal is says. “That’s the brass ring at the end Leave out non-relevant jobs, he advertising, read Advertising Age.” of these 80-hour work weeks.” n notes, “But if you have evidence of These and other periodicals leadership or management, even if it’s arm prospective candidates with Ginny Cook is the editor of Towson. in a pizza shop, list it.” Employers information, providing background want to know if students can identify for conversation and making a connection. summer 2011 towson 13 Designing Women kept the Theatre Department in Stitches

lothes may make the man (or premiers of “Rags,” “Chess” and C woman,) but first someone must The Who’s “Tommy,” according design the wardrobe and select the fabric. to a flier at the retrospective. For 40 years that task fell to costume The display also included her designer Georgia Baker, now TU artist renderings—sketches with professor emeritus of theatre arts. fabric swatches—that are suitable Her creations took center stage at for framing. productions on Towson’s campus and But before Baker ever took pen in regional and national playhouses. to paper for any sketch, she made Baker also taught costume design to sure she understood the production. legions of students, some who became “I researched the play, the period costume designers for hit television [in which it is set] and the play’s programs and Broadway shows. history,” she says. Last winter, Baker’s handiwork Baker would transform this was exhibited in the Holtzman MFA background information into a Gallery in the Center for the Arts. preliminary sketch—a tool to convey The costumes spanned her TU designs ideas—then meet with the show’s from 1967 through 2006 and included director for approval. “Everything a range of styles, from plays set in the is discussed with the director,” she Medieval era to the Roaring Twenties explains. “It’s a collaboration.” to contemporary times. The alliance between director Her professional work included the and costume designer was something American premiers of Eugene Ionesco’s Baker remembers with fondness “Journeys Among the Dead” and because it gave her a chance to “Man With Bags,” as well as regional literally tailor a story via clothes.

14 towson summer 2011 In short, costumes communicate. As a teacher, Baker passed on that Whether stark or elaborate, colorful excitement to Towson students along or dull, they provide clues to the with a work ethic and attention to personality, mood and action of detail needed to generate costumes the cast. that speak to an audience. “Costumes,” Baker says simply, “Georgia was already 30 years into “clarify the character for the her teaching career when I joined the audience.” faculty at Towson in 1996,” writes During her tenure, Baker has Daniel Ettinger, TU professor of clarified countless characters using theatre arts, in a narrative about everything from corsets to hoop the exhibit. “She was tough on her skirts to petticoats to hats. All of students and tough on me. these fashion statements were “When a student took a design produced on tight deadlines and class with Georgia, they would even tighter budgets. turn out 40 renderings over the The job has taken her from course of their first semester! But Washington, D.C., to New York City she built, with the help of costume in search of the perfect material. shop manager Cheryl Partridge, a “I love shopping for fabrics,” she costume shop and a stock that is the says, though she laments that many envy of programs twice our size.” of the fabric houses once located in Baker earned a graduate degree downtown Baltimore have gone out in costume design from Stanford of business. University and came to Towson after But whether she fashions her working at Center Stage. designs from sheers, woolens, In 1992, she wrote brocades or upholstery fabrics, A Handbook for Baker prefers when the material Costume Drawing. all comes together on stage. “Georgia always “When an actor puts on the displayed a tremendous costume, it’s exciting,” Baker says. talent for not only Georgia Baker (above) designed costumes for TU for more than 40 years. “That’s when the character costume design Her sketches and costumes from various comes to life.” but also historical plays reveal a technique for historical accuracy and an eye for fashion.

summer 2011 towson 15 accuracy,” says Jay Herzog, professor and chair of TU’s theatre arts department. “You could tell she conducted painstaking research into the role and the era in which the play was set. Her costume designs reflected a subtle mix of both.” Another former member of TU’s theatre department, Rose Patacca Marchione, brought many of Baker’s research, design and production that sketches to life. “Rose,” Baker recalls, continues to enrich the experience “turned those sketches into reality.” of Towson students today. Classes Baker and her students would immerse students in the study of research the playwrights and history period dress and methods of costume of each production. “From this design from Egyptian times to the research, costumes are planned, Elizabethan era. drawings made, patterns drafted Other courses require extensive by Mrs. Rose Marchione, costumiere research into the relationship of for the department, and muslins color, texture and historical period made from the paper patterns,” as well as the script and production reads a 1974 article in the News style. Eventually, advanced students American. “Mrs. Marchione, who become responsible for designing supervises the student workshop, or producing costumes for a TU does all the actual patternmaking, theatre department production. a meticulous and difficult procedure.” Graduates from the TU An Italian immigrant, Marchione program have dressed actors in used her sewing skills in Baltimore local and national productions, companies, making clothes for including on Broadway and at the servicemen during the war and Kennedy Center, and won numer- later items ranging from from ous awards for their designs. ski clothes to fur. She next became For example, Judy Dolan ’70, supervisor of the alteration department associate dean of arts and at Stewart’s, a department store humanities at the University of chain in the Baltimore area. California at San Diego, splits After being widowed at the age her time between teaching of 52, her pioneering spirit led her costume design and using to a job at then Towson State. her designing influence back “She enjoyed many successful years East. (Profiled inTowson , teaching students to create unique Fall 2005) She has designed costumes for their theater productions costumes for a string while showcasing her own design of Broadway musicals skills. Her memories with these directed by Hal Prince, students stayed with her long after and, in 1997, won a Tony her retirement,” writes her daughter, award for her bold silk Madeline Marchione Pecora ’57, in creations for the Broadway a tribute to her mother who had revival of Candide. Rose Marchione, pictured here in a 1971 News American turned 100 this year. She’s just one example of a crew article, worked in TU’s theatre Marchione raised four children, of TU graduates in costume design department for many years, two of whom graduated from who keep their casts in stitches. n retiring in the 1970s. An expert seamstress, she could also Towson. (Pecora and Anthony craft patterns from sketches Marchione ’55, retired superintendent of costume designs. Editor’s note: Rose Marchione died of Baltimore County Schools.) May 31 as this story was going to press. Baker and Marchione deserve credit for creating a legacy of costume Ginny Cook is the editor of Towson.

16 towson summer 2011 END OF AN ERA By Emily Koch

fter eight years at the helm of Towson University, the second largest public institution of Ahigher education in Maryland, Robert Caret has stepped down from his presidency. Since earning his doctorate in organic chemistry at the University of New Hampshire in 1974, Caret has devoted nearly 30 years of his professional life to Towson, serving as a faculty member, dean, executive vice president and provost. In 2003, after an eight-year stint as president of San Jose University, he was lured back to Towson to become the school’s 12th president, and in his tenure, the university has seen tangible improvement. The energetic president constructed new buildings and crafted new degree programs, increased fundraising initia- tives and began satellite campuses. The institution’s research funding has quintupled and its envied minority retention rate is ahead of the national curve. Indeed, from its campus-wide smoke-free policy to its commitment to sustainability, Towson has become an educational pioneer under the watchful eye of Caret. In the waning days of his presidency Now, as he takes that vision to the University of Massachusetts system, Robert Caret reflected on Towson’s past where he will serve as president, Caret and its impressive agenda for the future sat down with Towson for a final interview. TU is on a list of 11 From the new College How has TU’s $50 higher education in- of Liberal Arts complex million capital 1 stitutions nationwide 2 to residence halls, 3 campaign, which whose graduation garages and this wraps up this year, rates for minority students meet spring’s groundbreaking on the facilitated the university’s progress? or exceed those of whites, accord- new Tiger Arena, TU has expe- ing to the Education Trust. How rienced a building boom that is The capital campaign was an impor- did we achieve that success, and both unprecedented in recent tant financial goal and benchmark for Towson’s future, but our success are we a model to be emulated history and certified green. Can raised more than money—it estab- by other colleges and universities? you discuss the impact of these lished countless programs that will projects on campus life and how have a lasting impact on students, We are proud to boast a 65 percent they fit in with TU’s Master Plan? faculty and the community. Campaign graduation rate for all students and funds launched scores of new schol- an even better rate (67 percent and We knew that summer and fall of arships and grants, including most 70 percent respectively) for blacks and 2011 would be an exciting time at recently the Towson Promise Scholar- Hispanics—exceeding our average Towson University, as there will be ship for students facing financial hard- peer institutions’ rates by 20 percent. more new construction groundbreak- ship and a $90,000 challenge grant for Towson’s success in eliminating the ings and ribbon cuttings than ever. the TU debate team. Also, the faculty achievement gap resulted from a The new buildings opening this year combination of admitting students have enjoyed exciting new “ Our Capital Campaign raised more than money— it elevated and advanced the university to a new standard of excellence. ” based on criteria, like a strong GPA, and others underway on campus will opportunities for research and teach- that indicates they can succeed, and impact every aspect of campus life, ing, such as the creation of Towson’s directing resources to help students from the College of Liberal Arts aca- first-ever endowed chair and endowed track their academic progress. demic building, to the Towson Com- professorship. Other campaign-funded Our Pathways to Success model is mons student union complex, to the initiatives, including the Center for one that other institutions can use as new West Village residence halls and Adults with Autism and the Willard a guide for wrapping students with the 1,500-space West Village garage, Hackerman Academy for Science and support that begins at the onset of and the Tiger Arena sports complex. Mathematics, enable us to forge key their college experience and ushers These highly anticipated improve- partnerships and share valuable them through graduation. Encouraging ments are part of our Master Plan and services with our neighbors. campus involvement through student support the institution’s growth in size programs and peer mentoring has also and quality. After many years of wait- Can you share some proven to be effective for us. We know ing, it is satisfying to see much-needed that our continued success relies on campus buildings go from renderings 4 details about the persistent evaluation and improvement to realities and I expect continued “Dream No Small of our model and support programs. progress that addresses the physical Dream” fund, needs of the campus. established by you and your

wife, Elizabeth Zoltan?

18 towson summer 2011 Liz and I established the “Dream No alumni to the legislature, adding to Capital Projects and Small Dream” fund to send students an already thriving caucus of Towson the message that they should not limit graduates. University faculty, staff Innovative Policies their expectations of what they can and students should also be optimistic accomplish at Towson and beyond. about the positive and solid reputation 1 The endowment reflects my belief that in academics and student programs education is the foundation through that Towson has earned with key law- which people evolve. Education is makers in a short amount of time. The critical to our collective future and entire university community is seen everyone deserves a chance and the as one of Maryland’s greatest assets monetary support to pursue it. and support for resources continues to grow. The legislature knows this and we should feel good about the future. There have been 2 3 a number of new 5 graduate programs Do you see any paral- and certificates that lels between where began under your leadership. 7 Towson was when you Is there one you are most proud came here in 2003 as of securing? president and where the University of Massachusetts is now? I am proud to say that Towson now 4 offers five doctoral programs — The University of Massachusetts is Audiology, Information Technology, in a situation that resembles where Instructional Technology, Jewish I found Towson eight years ago. It is Studies and Occupational Science, and ranked 19th in the world by the Times the joint TU/UB MBA. The MBA is of London, yet still sits in the shadows a natural fit at Towson, home of the of Harvard, MIT and other private state’s largest undergraduate business institutions. In other words, they are program which is regularly ranked liked and appreciated, but not well nationally for its value. understood. My first job will be to get Our recent growth in both existing the word out about UMass: what it 5 6 and new academic programs—includ- does for the state, why it is important ing those in nursing and health profes- and how it complements what private sions, STEM and education—has ful- institutions are doing. I will make it filled Maryland’s greatest needs, and clear that the future of Massachusetts because we have embraced applied is intimately linked to the future of degrees, both master’s and doctorates, UMass. I need to sell that concept our programs exhibit a quality that and, in doing so, garner support might not be possible elsewhere. for UMass and its faculty, staff and Have you seen or students. 7 heard anything from What will you tell the 6 the legislature that next person to step might give Towson 8 into the presidency faculty, staff and students reason of Towson University? to be optimistic in the future? You are coming to a wonderful The governor and the legislature both campus, a true academic community believe that education provides the and a true academic family. Enjoy the foundation for the future. They also experience and, most importantly, keep recognize the great sacrifice state em- the institutional momentum going. n ployees have made with three consec- 1. The new College of Liberal Arts building is the first on utive years of furloughs and cutbacks. campus to receive LEED silver certification. 2. The West Village opens this summer and will feature 85,000 With the November 2010 elections, Emily Koch is an editor in University Relations. square feet of mixed use. Annapolis welcomed more Towson Photos by Kanji Takeno and Desirée Stover 3. Phase I of the CLA building is open for classes. 4. The 5,200-seat Tiger Arena will be complete in 2013. 5. Plants cover more than 50 percent of the roof of the new CLA building. 6. Towson will celebrate one year of being a smoke-free campus on August 1. 7. An above average 71 percent of Towson’s minority students will reach graduation.

Photos by Kanji Takeno MedStar s Star Bradley S. Chambers ‘91 is taking Union Memorial Hospital to new heights

On a typical day Chambers arrives at his office at 7:30 a.m. During the course of the day, he will meet with various physicians and key leaders, and support employee recognition events. His work- day usually ends around 6 p.m. After work he may put in addi- tional hours on behalf of one of many nonprofit organizations—including the American Cancer Society and Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Central isit Baltimore’s Union Memorial Maryland—with which he’s involved. “He told me that the Baltimore County Hospital, and you’ll immediately It’s a full day for the president of a Department of Health was looking for V see the people who make the place now-thriving hospital deeply rooted a student intern,” Chambers recalls. hum: physicians, nurses, technicians, in Baltimore history. Founded in 1854 “He thought it would be good to have receptionists, housekeepers and, of as the Union Protestant Infirmary, the an internship on my resume.” course, patients. 20-bed facility was dedicated to caring Chambers heeded the counsel and The role of the nattily dressed man for the “sick, the poor and the infirm.” soon found himself employed in the striding down the corridor may not Renamed Union Memorial Hospital in health department’s Biostatistics Divi- be as clear to outsiders, but President 1920, it has since grown to comprise sion. As the weeks passed, he discov- Bradley S. Chambers is a key reason 301 beds and 2,500 employees, includ- ered an affinity for data analysis. “I was for Union Memorial’s successes. ing 600 physicians. Union Memorial is crunching numbers.” he says. “And I It’s a job that requires executive acu- part of MedStar Health, a nonprofit, found it fascinating.” men, resourcefulness and vision—not community-based healthcare organi- continued on page 22 to mention stamina. zation in the Baltimore/Washington region. But Chambers didn’t set out to become a much-liked and admired healthcare executive. The Baltimore native and McDonogh School graduate majored in political science at Towson and contemplated going to law school after graduation. In his final semester, he had a life- altering meeting with his academic adviser.

20 towson summer 2011 Overseeing a $420 million operating budget, Chambers succeeded in steering the hospital through a deep economic downturn while garnering awards for performance and quality.

summer 2011 towson 21 Brad Chambers meets with his executive team in the board room of Union Memorial.

That public-health job proved “Harry Rider is the reason for my board of directors, initially as a to be his entree into healthcare success,” Chambers says. member, then as chair. Now a mem- administration. A few years later he When Rider retired in 2009, Brad ber of the MedStar board, Jensen parlayed his experience into a posi- Chambers, 40, was thoroughly recalls watching Chambers do the tion with the University of Maryland prepared to succeed his mentor “blocking and tackling” as chief Medical System, where he initially as Union Memorial’s president. operating officer under Harry Rider. worked in general accounting and Overseeing a $420 million operating “Harry was a hard act to follow,” he patient accounting. budget, he succeeded in steering the says.”But Brad handled the transi- In 1995 his career took a major hospital through a deep economic tion to president masterfully. He’s turn with an administrative resi- downturn while garnering awards his own man, with his own style. dency with MedStar Health, then for performance and quality. “Now that I’m on the MedStar Helix Health—a position in which It hasn’t been easy, even with the board, I get to see how all nine of he supported executive leadership transformative changes achieved by our hospital presidents perform,” for the health system. his predecessor. Jensen continues. “And I can tell Three years later he accepted an “We’ve overhauled the model,” you that Bradley Chambers is a star appointment as vice president of op- Chambers explains. “Consum- performer.” erations at Union Memorial Hospi- ers now have one-stop shopping Chambers has no plans to rest on tal, a MedStar hospital. In 2002 he for care. More and more hospitals his laurels, though. He continues to was appointed senior vice president, are offering ambulatory sites off grapple with a multitude of challenges, and in 2005 he became chief operat- campus, which in turn enables them citing the nurse shortage as well as ing officer. “At that point my career to concentrate on patients requiring shortages in some medical special- trajectory began to take shape,” he acute care. The days are over when ties, as ongoing problems. Then there says. “I was fortunate to be in the people had to go to a hospital for are liability and access issues, and right place at the right time.” blood tests or X-rays.” the occasional community relations In addition to broadened responsi- Union Memorial also has invested flap (most recently involving a pro- bilities, Chambers found a mentor in in niche services, such as orthopedics posed helipad). “Union Memorial Union Memorial President Harrison and sports medicine, which have has gone through a lot of changes,” J. Rider III, who in 1999 assumed made it a destination for those need- Chambers says, “but we still have the challenge of reinventing the then- ing specialty services. “The idea,” our work cut out for us.” struggling hospital. Chambers emphasizes, “is to focus But whatever the future brings, At the outset of Rider’s tenure, on what we do well.” Brad Chambers is prepared. “I’ve Union Memorial was losing $1 mil- Steady, measurable progress on all had excellent team members, great lion per month and had shockingly fronts garnered recognition for the support and an incredible mentor,” low levels of physician satisfaction. once-beleaguered Union Memorial. he emphasizes. Over the next decade he succeeded in It has received the Delmarva Excel- Does he ever regret not becoming creating a new culture that involved lence Award for Quality Improve- a lawyer? “Not at all,” he replies physicians in substantive dialogue ment for five straight years, a feat with a laugh. “But sometimes I regret and fostered a spirit of teamwork, unsurpassed by any other Maryland not taking the medical track.” n openness and accountability. hospital. Its orthopedics program His leadership set the bar for Cham- was ranked among the top 50 in bers, then in his early 30s. As Rider’s U.S. News & World Report’s 2010- right hand, he assisted the president in 11 list of America’s Best Hospitals. transforming Union Memorial into a Attorney Mark Jensen, of Bowie On May 5 Bradley S. Chambers nationally recognized specialty hospi- & Jensen LLC, was involved for received the Deans Recognition tal with a caring culture. nine years with Union Memorial’s Award for the College of Liberal Arts.

22 towson summer 2011 alumni events

2011-2012 Board of Directors from the the towson university alumni association is pleased to announce the 2011-2012 board of directors alumni president

Dear Friends:

The Towson University campus has been a hub of change this year as we welcomed new leaders and continued construction on new buildings. TU Provost Marcia Welsh stepped in as interim president after Bob Caret headed to the University of Massachusetts in April. A search committee is hard at work to find a The 2011 Board of Directors replacement by next fall. Susan Picinich became dean of the College of Fine Arts, Joseph McGinn, stepped in as dean of the Honors College and Pat Skerry took OFFICERS AT LARGE MEMBERS over as men’s basketball coach. Lou Dollenger ’74 President Ken Abrams ’92 Shane Justis ’05 Our campus footprint is also Lance Johnson ’93 Vice President Darcy Accardi ’06 Beverly Norwood ’68 undergoing a dramatic change. We Fran Bond ’55/’61 Treasurer Fran Bond ’55/’61 Cathy Plakatoris ’83 broke ground on the new Tiger Arena Keith Ewancio ’94/’07 Secretary Andre Cooper ’87 John Raley ’80 this spring and are completing the final Patrick Dieguez ’07 Mark Rapson ’93 phase of the College of Liberal Arts building, the West Village Commons, two Teresa Eaton ’00 Barbara Shifflett ’79 West Village residence halls and a six- Barbara Eckley ’77 Bill Stetka ’77 story West Village garage. Every project Scott Hargest ’79 Bill Wood ’87 will be certified “green.” Towson continues its partnership with the Cherry Hill neighborhood in College of Business and Economics: Lisa Michocki ’06 Baltimore City. It also earned accolades College of Education: Karen Blair ’74 from the Princeton Review as an College of Fine Arts and Communication: Chris A’Hern ’94 environmentally responsible campus and College of Health Professions: Diana Ramsay ’78 U.S. News and World Report as a best College of Liberal Arts: Gerry Gaeng ’81 graduate school for its MBA program Fisher College of Science and Mathematics: Liina Ladon ’76 with the University of Baltimore. As the spring semester closes, TU Student Government Association: Matt Sikorski the university is wrapping up its $50 million capital campaign—quite an PAST PRESIDENT: Kim Fabian ’88 accomplishment in this economy—and I want to thank you for your part in EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS: Marcia Welsh, Interim President, Gary Rubin ’69, Vice President, helping us achieve the goal. University Advancement, Lori Armstrong, Associate Vice President, Alumni Relations; I wish you and your family a relaxing Executive Director, Alumni Association summer.

Lou Dollenger ’74 President summer 2011 towson 23 Towson University Alumni Association alumni events

Lunch and Learn

Oak Crest Alumni 1 2 Reception >

Residents of Charlestown and Oak Crest Village were all ears when Ray Lorion, dean of the College of Education, and Kris Phillips, director of facilities management for planning, came to discuss the latest news from Towson’s campus.

3 4

5 6

1 Jeanette Herrold ’51 and Gloria Paar ’51 2 Mary Henry ’82, James Henry ’56, Julia Persky ’56, Vince Salkowski ’54 and Thomas Foster ’54 3 Emma Kepp ’72/’75, Karl Weihs, Vince Kilkowski and Mary Weihs ’65 4 Sally Bowerman, John Seitz and Jeanette Seitz ’45 5 Eugene Langbehn ’59, Charlotte Langbehn and Donna Mayer 6 Bob Holland, Fran Bond ’55/’60 and Gloria Holland ’53

24 towson summer 2011 alumni events

Tapping In

1 2

< Education initiatives in Annapolis

Members of the TAP (Towson Advocacy Program) gathered in Annapolis last spring. The group got up-to-date information about the issues facing the General Assembly that affect higher education and Towson University via the annual 3 4 Legislative Luncheon sessions. Alumni use TAP to pave the way for a brighter future for TU.

1 Gary Attman, USM Board of Regents, his wife, Patty and mother-in-law, Jacqueline Charrier ’03 2 Ginny Schaaf ’57 and Connie Kihm ’95, TAP chair 3 Delegate Warren Miller ’87, Delegate Kathy Szeliga ’94, Bob Caret, Delegate Pamela Beidle ’94 and Delegate Charles Barkley ’72 4 Steve Willett ’79 and Speaker of the House Michael Busch

summer 2011 towson 25 alumni events

Swing Time

1 2

O’s notch a victory at Ed Smith Stadium >

More than 50 alumni and friends watched the Orioles beat the Tampa Bay Rays during an exhibition game at the renovated Ed Smith Stadium in Sarasota, Fla., on March 3. The 3 4 Alumni Association will host another picnic and game next year—so check out the Orioles 2012 spring training schedule this fall so you can make plans to join us for the next win.

5 1 Frank Mezzanotte ’73, Charles Lotocki ’74, John Gilliss ’74 and Gary Rubin ’69 2 Steve Appel ’82 and Kristine Bowman-Appel ’87 3 Dan Higgs ’60 and Shigemi Higgs 4 Jeff Riddle ’75, Gary Tarr ’74 and John Hall ’75 5 Top row: Lorraine Ukens ’90, Bob Caret and Leon Ukens Bottom row: Alan Berrier, Dan ’75/’83 and Mary McCarthy

26 towson summer 2011 alumni events

Welcome Friends

1 2

< Hospitality at the Auburn Pavilion

The Alumni Association put out the welcome mat this spring for more than 1,000 alumni, parents, students and friends at the Alumni Hospitality Area at the Auburn Pavilion. We celebrated Tiger lacrosse and were joined by alumni from the tennis, lacrosse and 3 swimming and diving teams.

1, 2, 3 Swimming and diving alumni, and current team members enjoyed getting together.

Check it Out < Bull roast benefits men’s and women’s 1 2 lacrosse

More than 500 alumni and friends packed the Towson Center March 12 for the annual bull roast to support the men’s and women’s lacrosse programs. Hearty fare and a day filled with fun and games resulted in a fundraising success.

1, 2 Lacrosse alumni packed the Towson Center for the annual bull roast.

summer 2011 towson 27 alumni events

Get Crackin’

1 2

Crab Feast in the Sunshine State >

Sunny Florida means it’s time for blue crabs. On March 4, we drove across Alligator Alley to meet up with old friend Danny Colero at his Riggins Crab House in Lantana, Fla., to celebrate a Maryland tradition with our alumni who live in the Fort 3 4 Lauderdale area.

5 6

1 Gary Rubin ’69 and Mary Mangione 2 China Rain ’72 and Sharon Angeli 3 Frank Mezzanotte ’73 and his mother Lena Mezzanotte 4 Jenna Wehner, Bob Caret, John Ferber ’94 and Liz Zoltan 5 Rachel Unger ’08 and Marlene Fishbein ’07 6 John McMunn ’94, Terri McMunn ’94 and Patricia Raco ’91

28 towson summer 2011 alumni events

Succeeding in Business

1 2

< The 2011 Executive Club

On March 31st, members of TU’s Executive Club gathered at the university home to kick off the 2011 membership cycle and

3 to celebrate their camaraderie and leadership achievements. For more information on the Executive Club, please go to www.towson.edu, and visit the alumni link.

4 5

6 1 David ’76 and Susie ’79 Nevins 2 Les Ireland ’86 and Michael Robinson ’88 3 Matt Desrosiers, Karin Schwartz ’94, Lance Johnson ’93 and Gerry Gaeng ’81 4 Mike Young ’81, Ron Brown ’76, and Ron Causey ’82 5 Lori Armstrong, Bob Caret and Scott Hargest ’79 6 Ken Gent ’83 and Steve Willett ’79

summer 2011 towson 29 alumni events

At the Beach

1 2

Ocean City, Md., Reception >

It’s never too early to get a jump on the summer season. So on April 14, we gathered for a reception at Fager’s Island at 60th Street in Ocean City, Md., with nearly 100 TU graduates. Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan presented the key to the city to 3 4 Gary Rubin ’69, vice president of University Advancement.

5 1 Regina Foreman, Danielle DiMichele ’09, Jeanne Carey and Andrese Foreman ’09 2 Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan, Donna Abbott ’79 and Gary Rubin ’69 3 Holly Donovan ’82 and Louis Parsons ’82 4 Robert ’52 and Sandra ’57 Stevens 5 Julie Duer- Clayton, Lance Johnson ’93 and John Clayton

30 towson summer 2011 alumni events

• The 5 parking permits and tickets are distributed to Friday, September 23 reserved alumni group leaders PRIOR to Homecoming HALL OF FAME INDUCTION DINNER Day. Guests without Lot 21 parking permits may park in University Union, Potomac Lounge the Union, Glen or Towsontown Garages and walk to the athletic corridor. Towson University buses will also • 6 p.m. Cocktails provide transportation to the athletic corridor (GOLD 7 p.m. • Dinner and ceremony ROUTE) four hours prior to game time, and then again, two hours after the game concludes. • Alumni guests with Lot 21 parking permits enter from Saturday, September 24 Auburn Drive South to gain access to lot 21 (Auburn ALUMNI HOMECOMING TAILGATE FESTIVAL Drive South is the entrance to the Athletic Corridor Unitas Stadium, Parking Lot 21 closest to Stevenson Lane). • If you do not have a pre-reserved parking permit, you (Across from the Auburn House) will NOT be permitted to drive into the Auburn Drive FOOTBALL GAME 2 – 6:30 p.m. South entrance to Lot 21. September 24 7 p.m. – Football game • All tailgating materials must be in the vehicles arriving Unitas Stadium • 7 p.m. and parked on site. • There is no drop off or delivery service of tailgating TOWSON TIGERS VS. TAILGATING INFORMATION materials to Parking Lot 21. COLGATE RAIDERS We are excited to return to the athletic corridor for • Tents and/or canopies are not permitted • Campers, trailers or RV’s are not permitted TICKETS: our historic Alumni Homecoming Tailgate Festival in • Pre-reserved parking spaces are first-come, first-served Lot 21. Details are listed below. for alumni, and are assigned upon registration and $15, Senior citizens: $8 with ID receipt of payment. We cannot honor requests to be Children 18 and under: $10 ALUMNI GROUPS: RESERVE YOUR SPACE NOW located adjacent to other groups or in specific areas Groups of 10 or more: $3 Alumni groups MUST pre-reserve a designated tailgating of Parking Lot 21. Call 410-704-2244 or visit space through the Office of Alumni Relations to access Lot • Tailgating is permitted at the conclusion of the game www.towsontigers.com 21 on Homecoming Day. Spaces are first-come, first-served for 90 minutes – no exceptions. and space is limited. The $60 fee will reserve 5 parking • Tailgating rules apply for “Special Day Private Functions.” spaces, 10 football game tickets, signs for your group and a It is your group leader and member’s responsibility to tailgating survivor packet. Bring your neighbors and friends distribute, review and abide by the tailgating rules. HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS or meet past classmates and colleagues for tailgating Towson University festivities. Enjoy an afternoon at your alma mater and stay To reserve your Alumni Homecoming Tailgate Festival Marriott Hotel to watch the Towson University Tigers take on the Colgate parking permits/spaces, please email [email protected]. Red Raiders. Be sure to stop by the Alumni Hospitality If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call Ten West Burke Avenue Area at the Auburn House Pavilion for your Alumni Group the Office of Alumni Relations at 410-704-2234. Towson, MD 21252 Tailgating Survivor Packet, refreshments and Homecoming giveaways. This event is rain or shine! 410-324-8100

TAILGATING PARKING* Sept. 23 – Sept. 25 Limited rooms available at $60 per group $120 per group $99/Single & $119/Double (5 parking permits/spaces & 10 game tickets) (10 parking permits/spaces and 20 game tickets) + applicable state and local taxes *No more than 10 parking permits/spaces may be reserved by one alumni group Reference#: 5LQ5JC

For Tiger Events this fall visit www.towsontigers.com. summer 2011 towson 31 philanthropy matters

from the Corporate and Foundation Contributions Update campaign chair More than one-third of the dollars raised through the Capital Campaign have come from corporate Dear Friends, or foundation donors, including 31 contributions of We. Are. Almost. There. $100,000 or more. It is with great anticipation that I write these words. After seven years, n The largest philanthropic commitment in Towson Campaign Progress as of May 31, 2011: Towson University is poised to reach University’s history came in 2005 from the $48,173,593 its $50 million Capital Campaign Robert M. Fisher Memorial Foundation—$10.2 goal—the largest in our institution’s million to support the Jess and Mildred Fisher Just a few more months history. What has been accomplished College of Science and Mathematics, named to meet our goal — through this funding is nothing short Help push us over the top of remarkable. Gifts renamed a to honor the founders of the Fisher Memorial college, expanded programs, seeded Foundation. $50 new ones, nurtured faculty and n Million GOAL: $50 Million FY ’11 supported students. There are so many The Bernard Osher Foundation made two contributions of $1 million with each grant $3,519,995 people and organizations to thank. But (as of May 26, 2011) $45 I am getting ahead of myself. We are establishing an endowment to provide income not there, yet. for the Osher Reentry Scholarship program Within the Philanthropy Matters and the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. FY ’10 $40 pages of this magazine, Towson $6,938,125 University has shared news of n Businessman Willard Hackerman contributed transformative gifts and stories of two $1 million gifts through the Hackerman $35 donors’ motivation for giving back. Foundation and the Whiting-Turner Contracting FY ’09 For those of you who have made Company to establish the Hackerman $7,175,300 your own gift, the stories may have a THE CAMPAIGN FOR TOWSON Presidential Scholarship and the Hackerman $30 special resonance. You know the joy Academy of Mathematics and Science. Both and satisfaction of being part of this FY ’08 endowments will nurture students interested $6,291,766 special time in Towson’s history. If you in pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, $25 have not yet made a gift, I urge you to Engineering and Math) degrees. do so now in support of a scholarship, FY ’07 department or program that has In total, more than 100 corporations and foundations $20 $5,775,453 made a difference in your life. The made philanthropic commitments to the Capital cumulative power of all gifts, great Campaign. Seventy percent of these donors made more FY ’06 and small (and those in between), has $15 $4,998,402 brought us to this day. We’ve been than one gift, with nearly 50 percent making at least Growing a University, to great success. three gifts. We. Are. Almost. There. Wouldn’t it $10 be wonderful if your gift put us over In addition to gifts and grants made through corporations FY ’05 the top? and corporate foundations, Employer Matching Gift $13,461,622 programs enhanced resources available for a multitude $5 Includes $10,200,000 gift from the Robert M. Fisher of Towson University programs and scholarships. A total Memorial Foundation to rename the College of 233 organizations matched 1,487 gifts by individuals of Science and Mathematics giving $563,146 in support of Towson University. Molly Shock ’75 Campaign Chair Growing a University— The Campaign for Towson 32 towson summer 2011 summer 2011 towson 33 philanthropy matters

Foundation Scholars Luncheon annual event brings donors and recipients together

The 2011 Foundation Scholars Luncheon, a celebration of scholarship, brought together more than 250 recipients, their benefactors and campus leadership on April 29. Featured speakers included Interim President Marcia Welsh and Ken ’78 and Renee ’79 Moreland, donors of an endowed scholarship for accounting students. The couple’s motivation to give is rooted in their religious faith and a belief in passing on their blessings. Three student scholarship recipients also shared their stories. Terri Fabula, recipient of the Charlotte W. Newcombe Scholarship for Women and Men, spoke of her struggles with a nerve disease which necessitated the “If it weren’t for those who create the grants and end of her first career as a radiologist and set scholarships that give someone like me a second her on a new path as an art major at Towson chance, I don’t know where I’d be today.” and future illustrator. “If it weren’t for those who create the grants and scholarships that —Terri Fabula, Class of 2012 give someone like me a second chance, I don’t know where I’d be today.” The Scholars Luncheon is a cornerstone of the Foundation Scholars program, which aims to preserve and share the histories and legacies of scholarship donors and to instill the importance of philanthropy in future alumni. Gary Rubin, vice president for university advancement and the luncheon’s master of ceremonies, says, “The effect that your philanthropy has on Towson students is unmistakable; you are giving them freedom to thrive, innovate, imagine and build successful futures.” To view more photos of this year’s Foundation Scholars Luncheon, visit www.towson.edu/foundationscholars. Ken ’78 and Renee Moreland ’79 (front) and their scholarship recipients Nataly Shwartz and Bolajoko Somade.

(Photo top) Interim President Marcia Welsh (second from left) with student speakers Caiti Bawroski (Jean S. Baumbach Scholarship), Terri Fabula (Charlotte W. Newcombe Endowed Scholarship for Mature Women and Men) and Olumuyiwa Onibatedo (Governor Robert L. Ehrlich Scholarship).

32 towson summer 2011 summer 2011 towson 33 philanthropy matters

Gifts That Transform donors discuss their reasons for giving

Towson donors extend their generosity for many reasons. Some make a gift to honor an alumnus or a favorite professor, while others provide funds to make sure deserving students can call Towson home. No matter the reason for giving or the size of the actual gift, this generosity truly transforms the university.

While making a gift in their son’s name To honor this welcoming environment does not make up for his loss, the Dunbars are and to help support the university’s initiatives helped by the knowledge they are assisting to give all students a safe and secure place, others who “deserve an education.” Cooper and her partner, Salisbury University Each year at a reception honoring scholarship professor Jody Morrison ’84, established an recipients, the Dunbars meet the students who endowment to support the LGBT center. benefit from the scholarship fund. The center, located in the union, “strives to “When we met those students it was as if create an inclusive and educated campus

Gwen and James Dunbar Jay knew we were honoring him. He could see community where all lesbian, gay, bisexual, that we cared about the school as much as transgender, queer and ally students feel n James “Jay” Dunbar Jr. ’94 had always he did,” Gwen Dunbar says. “We are helping welcomed, supported, valued and engaged.” wanted to earn a college degree, but it wasn’t other students to finish their education like he “We would hate for any student to drop until his mid-30s that he decided to go back wanted to so badly.” out of school because of who they are,” to school at Towson and make it happen. Cooper says. “When you’re in a university, Unfortunately, in the fall of 1994, he died you’re fairly vulnerable if you are not financially suddenly from pancreatic cancer. Before his stable. A lot of students finance their own passing, a representative from TU brought education and if you are relying on a parent his diploma to the hospital, and he graduated or grandparent, often one of the first things summa cum laude, fulfilling his lifelong dream. we see is the parents pull that funding.” To honor Jay’s legacy and the university he Cooper and Morrison hope the endowment loved, his parents, Gwen and James Sr., have will support students such as an honors established a $250,000 planned gift to go student Cooper remembers whose mother toward the scholarship fund they named for Jody Morrison ’84 and Cynthia Cooper pulled her college funding and tried to Jay soon after his death. The scholarship fund repossess her car because she was gay. is designated for CBE students like Jay who n When Cynthia Cooper, professor and chair “Only money can provide the resources are older than typical freshmen. Applicants of the Department of Mass Communication students need, especially students who are must be junior or senior marketing majors, and Communication Studies, interviewed tossed out of the house,” Morrison says. aged 22 or older. for her current position at Towson, she was “We think these financial resources will “My relationship with TU is just as good heartened to see that the university had a make or break whether a student succeeds.” as my son’s was,” Gwen Dunbar says. “There LGBT center and active mentoring program, The endowment is not just for LGBT wasn’t a person in that school that he had as well as pride flags and ads for LGBT students, however. It offers support services as a teacher or a mentor that he didn’t events hanging visibly on campus. for all students and funds staff and faculty respect or care about.”

34 towson summer 2011 philanthropy matters

FOOTPRINTS TALK

After reading about Towson’s success in not only enrolling, but graduating education and training. Because of this, equipment. The gift is making it easier for the minorities, Susan Mathews ’82 was inspired to make a permanent mark on campus. Cooper and Morrison hope their gift will lead station to fulfill its mission to play the music of Her gift also qualified her as a 2011 to increased understanding and dialogue. artists who have not yet found their way onto Founders Society leader. While investing in a university like Towson commercial stations. “I named a seat in Stephens Hall for that cares about making all students feel “Baltimore has the potential to be a top Michael Seganish in the business welcome was an easy choice for Cooper music city in the United States; WTMD can be department because he was an inspiring and Morrison, they encourage prospective an important part of that,” Steve Reeves says. teacher,” says Mathews. “His passion for teaching made students interested in a donors to consider investing in young “The station has the ability to assist the topic that can be pretty dry.” people in general. local music scene in a positive way,” he adds. By recognizing Seganish, Mathews is “I can’t think of anything better than “Baltimore Unsigned provides radio access also showing pride in TU for its continued investing in young people, who are doing to unsigned artists who are featured on the ability to produce graduates from all their best in a time that can be very difficult. station, and First Thursdays brings free music to backgrounds, especially in difficult I can’t imagine not giving,” Cooper says. Mt. Vernon Square. The station has a vision to economic times. “We see every day in the news that be a positive force in the area.” the funding is being cut, yet more and Thanks to the Reeves’ generosity, music more people are eligible and want to fans will continue to benefit from WTMD’s go to college,” she says. “We have to dig ability to enhance the quality of life in the deeper, even if it’s a small amount. When Baltimore region by bringing talented artists we combine resources, we can do to the airwaves. a lot more for deserving students.” In response to the university’s annual “Lyn and Steve’s gift had a transformative appeal, Footprints Talk, other TU alumni impact on WTMD, our staff and our audience,” and friends, like Mathews, have left their WTMD General Manager Steve Yasko says. mark by naming a space on campus. To Steve and Lyn Reeves “Their gift enabled us to bring more live view a complete listing of donors who performances into our studios and onto the air. named a seat on campus or purchased a brick during the fall Towson Fund appeal, n When Rolling Stone magazine named They’ve helped not only WTMD, but hundreds or to take advantage of one of the giving Baltimore the “best music scene” in 2008, of artists who otherwise would not be able to opportunities listed below, please visit many listeners of WTMD, the public radio tell their stories directly to our city.” www.towson.edu/yournamehere. station that calls the TU campus home, While the Reeves wanted to honor and weren’t surprised. Avid music fans and WTMD encourage WTMD’s crucial role in the regional supporters Lyn and Steve Reeves realize that music scene, they also appreciate its affiliation the up-and-comers in the local music scene can with Towson University. thank 89.7 for precious air time and support. “We’re inspired by the transformative power Library Collections Shelving - $2,500 To enhance the listener-supported station’s of education,” Reeves says. “It enables and Stephens Hall Auditorium Seats - $1,000 ability to promote and foster regional singers equalizes people of different backgrounds. Center for the Arts Seating and songwriters, the Reeves made a gift A university can be a force for improvement Recital Hall Seats - $500 to renovate WTMD’s studio and purchase in a community.” Main Stage Theatre Seats - $250 Harold J. Kaplan Concert Hall Seats - $100

Johnny Unitas Stadium Seating Gold Seats - $500 Stadium Seats - $250

Van Bokkelen Auditorium Seats - $250 Auburn House Path Bricks - $100 class notes class notes

In Memoriam Charles E. Woodey ’68 Roberta H. Klement Kilian ’61 in Howard County, Md., was also named Girl’s July 26, 2010 January 17, 2011 Cross Country Coach of the Year as River Hill won Alumni Helena C. Lenna Macintire ’63 Stephen Charles Broy ’01 their third consecutive state title. During 39 years, August 20, 2010 January 25, 2011 Lauer has coached 95 seasons of boys and girls Maryann G. Gillease cross country, wrestling, and track and field with James R. Bowerman ’50 Barbara C. Collier Hull ’45 Sandusky ’64 his teams winning more than 100 county, regional November 6, 2007 September 19, 2010 February 3, 2011 and state championships. Carolyn R. Weinbert Winer ’62 Paul Martin Boyd ’89 Laurence Holden ’88 October 14, 2008 September 23, 2010 February 13, 2011 James Meehan ’71 PHED retired after 38 years with the Montgomery County public school Nancy Rich ’78 Thomas W. Weese ’86 Lisa A. Muro Reinshuttle ’75 system. He taught physical education for 35 years January 9, 2009 October 6, 2010 March 9, 2011 at Olney Elementary and was athletic director Glascoe A. Baker ’79 Stephanie Lynn Phelps ’94 Jami Rene Long Grant ’86 of Sherwood High School for two years. He also October 12, 2010 March 23, 2011 January 12, 2009 was a member of the Maryland Public School Virginia T. Freakle Morris ’35 Joyce D. Derflinger Shannon Darnell Canami ’10 Secondary Athletic Association’s Wrestling August 3, 2009 Mac Millan ’71 March 26, 2011 Committee for 20 years. October 15, 2010 Nancy R. Covahey ’92 Sandy Brodsky ’72 PHED retired after 38 January 6, 2010 Robert A. Thomas ’68 Faculty November 22, 2010 years as a physical education teacher in the Clarinda White ’06 Betty Lou Raskin Tinton Falls, N.J., school system. He coached boys Thomas A. Stone ’96 March 29, 2010 December 17, 2010 and girls track for 15 years and basketball for five November 26, 2010 James E. Adam ’73 Stephen S. Showers years. He was also a two-term vice president of April 13, 2010 H. Browning Spence ’68 February 21, 2011 the local teachers union. Brodsky worked with the November 27, 2010 Monmouth Country Sheriff’s Prison Awareness Sara T. Harroll ’63 Gilbert A. Brungardt Program in taking “at risk” students through the May 23, 2010 Dennis G. McGee ’80 December 29, 2010 December 21, 2010 inner workings of the judicial system. He and his Claire V. Dolliver ’61 Dean Pickens ’55 wife, Terri, live in Neptune, N.J. May 27, 2010 Harry C. Latteman ’70 December 24, 2010 Anna M. Williams ’40 Pat Allen Kaplon ’72 EDUC published her July 18, 2010 G. Bosley Royston ’37 first book, A Child Called Hope, a novel about a December 25, 2010 young girl who must cope with the death of her beloved mother. 1960s history. He still teaches part-time at the college, Joan Kramer ’74 NURS, a graduate nursing but he and his wife, Carol, now have more time instructor, was appointed associate professor of Joe Kroart ’63 writes that his store on for family and friends at Deep Creek Lake, Md. nursing at Morgan State University in April 2010. Ocean City, Md.’s boardwalk, Ocean Gallery, In October, she was awarded a New Nursing Edward W. Shirley ’66 HIST was named was mentioned in Weird Maryland, a book Faculty Fellowship as part of the Nurse Support the 2011 Maryland Superintendant of the Year by Matt Lake. II program. by the Public School Superintendants Associa- Judith McGowan ’63/’03/’06 was inducted tion of Maryland. He was recognized along with Charlie Lusco ’74 PSYC had a trilogy into the International Swimming Hall of Fame the other state winners at the annual American of Christian devotions, In His Love and Glorious in the contributor category in 2009. She retired Association of School Administrators Convention Service, seasons 1, 2 and 3, published by in 2010 from teaching health in Baltimore City in February in Denver, Colo. Shirley has served as Westbow Press. Lusco is married with two public schools and has been a TU adjunct faculty the superintendant of schools in Caroline County, children, 8 and 28, and lives in York, Pa. member since 2007. Md., since July 2003. Al Cicere ’76/’84 M.E.D. became a full-time Neal A. Brooks ’66 HIST retired after 39 instructor at American Public University System years as professor of history and more than 20 1970s after serving as an adjunct instructor for a year. years as head of the history department at the He retired from Anne Arundel County Schools Essex campus of the Community College of Balti- Earl E. Lauer ’70 won the Morgan Wootten in 2007. more County. He was honored last year Lifetime Achievement Award by The Washington as CCBC Professor Emeritus for college service Post, an annual award that recognizes career Lynne Brick ’78 NURS, co-founder and and his contributions to the field including being accomplishments. Lauer, a longtime coach at owner of Brick Bodies and Lynne Brick’s Health a co-author of two books on Baltimore County Atholton High School and River Hill High School Clubs, was appointed to the board of directors

36 towson summer 2011 class notes class notes

of the Maryland Women’s Heritage Center. The center recognizes the experiences and contributions of Maryland women from diverse backgrounds. Overcoming Keith Mills ’79 was named 2010 Maryland Sportscaster of the Year by the Adversity National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Glenn Stearns ’87 Association. The annual award is presented to the top sportscasters and sportswriters in the nation. Mills, who joined Baltimore’s California businessman WBAL-TV 11 in 2006, has also worked for receives Horatio Alger Award Baltimore’s WJZ-TV and WMAR-TV.

Glenn Stearns ’87 is proof that the while he trained to become a loan 1980s American dream can become reality. officer. After 10 months as a loan Cynthia Miller ’81 ENGL is the new Despite a background that included officer, he formed his own mortgage chief of marketing and communications for being dyslexic and fathering a child company, which grew to become the American Association of University Women. at age 14, he rose to become founder Stearns Lending, Stearns Wholesale, An executive with extensive experience in and now chairman of the multi-million FPF Wholesale, Goverline, TriVerify, strategic communications, marketing and dollar Stearns Corporation, a network TriMavin and CU Partners. media communications, Miller has held senior of financial services companies based Following the mortgage industry Bob Gavin ‘87 leadership positions with Marriott International in California. crisis in 2007, Stearns Corporation and Walt Disney World. She serves on the is a director at Last April, Stearns received a 2011 emerged as the number-two privately board of directors of the Washington, D.C., Arthur Bell, a CPA firm Horatio Alger Award from the Horatio held mortgage lender in California chapter of Women in Film and Video. Alger Association of Distinguished and one of the top wholesale lenders in Hunt Valley, Md. Americans. in the country. By September 2010, Lynn Ricci ’81 PSYCH is the senior vice “The 2011 members are extraordi- Stearns’ funding reached nearly president at the Hospital for Special Care nary role models of strength, resolve $1 billion a month and the company in New Britain, Conn. She is responsible for and achievement and will help to saw record growth, adding more strategic planning, marketing, communications continue our mission of helping young than 1,000 employees over the past and employee relations. She also oversees people achieve similar success,” says three years. outpatient services including therapies and Tony Novelly, president and CEO, In 2007, Stearns and his wife, physician clinics, pharmacy, lab and radiology Horatio Alger Association. Mindy, won the reality television services, community sports programs, a fitness Stearns came from humble begin- show, “The Real Gilligan’s Island,” center and skilled nursing operations. nings on the outskirts of Washington, and matched their prize winnings D.C. His father was a printer and his to donate $500,000 to the Stearns Jeff Sweetin ’82 became the special agent mother cleaned homes and clerked at Family Charitable Foundation. They in charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Admin- a local grocery store. Both struggled also created Life Changing Lives, an istration Training Academy in Quantico, Va. with alcoholism, and many of his annual charity gala that pays tribute close relatives died as a result of the to American heroes and has raised Anthony Brown ’85/’95, president of disease. millions of dollars for local and the Dream 4 It Foundation, released an African Diagnosed as dyslexic, Stearns national charities. American musical history DVD, “Dream, A failed the fourth grade and by the Stearns was among 11 others Musical Celebration of Our History.” The eighth grade had fathered a child. inducted into the Horotio Alger documentary included Brown’s rendition Yet he set his sites on higher educa- Association this year in Washington, of Sam Cooke’s song, “A Change is Gonna tion, becoming the first person in his D.C., including Michael R. Bloomberg, Come.” Brown is an accomplished singer and family to attend college and earning mayor of New York City and founder recording artist. All proceeds from the DVD a degree in economics from Towson. and owner, Bloomberg, L.P., and will support the Dream 4 It Foundation’s goal After graduation, Stearns moved to Leonardo DiCaprio, actor and film of providing scholarships to college students. Orange County, Calif., waiting tables producer. Visit www.dream4it.net.

summer 2011 towson 37 class notes class notes

Robert Lee Gould ’85 BUAD Theresa Ratajczak ’88 was named Kevin Grace ’90 MCOM with actor retired from the U.S. Air Force and Maryland president of Lazarus Caucus, Inc., a nonprofit Clayton LeBouef honored the first Afro-American Air National Guard after 27 years of service. He organization located in Catonsville, Md., that boxing champion and Baltimorean Joe Gans with was recognized with the Legion of Merit for his works with local government agencies and the several events in August 2010 to commemorate service, the sixth in the order of precedence of U.S. Community Assistance Network to meet the the 100th anniversary of the fighter’s death. military decorations. He is a vice president with needs of the homeless in Baltimore County. In December 2010, Friends of Joe Gans which Constellation Energy and vice president and chief Ratajczak, a graphic designer, is also president promotes, educates and honors the memory of communications officer with Baltimore Gas and and co-founder of PDA Marketing, a marketing Gans, unveiled a historic plaque on the former Electric Company. and design company also based in Catonsville. site of the Goldfield Hotel that Gans owned. A ceremonial street sign, Joe Gans Way, was Susan Balducci Seaman ’95 BUAD Brian Feser ’89 has been appointed vice placed on Argyle Avenue in August 2010 where opened a Maryland-themed store in Glyndon, president at Textron Marine & Land Systems in Gans’ foster mother lived. Md., called Black Eyed Susan Coffee, Candy, Hunt Valley, Md. He is responsible for strategy and Cream & More. She began a gift basket company business development in commercial, military and Jill ’90 and James ’90 Jones announced in 2004 that featured items made in Maryland or international marketing and sales. A retired U.S. that their daughter Jessica Jones will be the third with a Maryland theme. The retail store continues Army lieutenant colonel, Feser previously directed generation to attend TU. Both Jessica’s parents the partnership with area companies that make the company’s Afghanistan operations. and grandparents attended and graduated from food and snacks. Towson. Bob Gavin ’87 BUAD was promoted to 1990s Ernest Jermin ’92 BIOL, a child psychiatrist director of the family office at Arthur Bell, a at Saint Francis Hospital, was interviewed by The TU alumni certified public accounting firm in Hunt Valley, Chris Devlin ’90 CCMM directed “The Fox Morning News in Connecticut about bullying. ice hockey team Md. He will be responsible for the strategic Nose,” a play that was part of the one-act Jermin discussed the case of an eighth grader festival of original works of the Katselas Theatre raised $2,100 planning, operations, development and who countered cyber bullies by posting a growth of the group. Company. The show was performed on weekends Youtube video of her own. for the American in April at the Beverly Hills Playhouse in Beverly Cancer Society in Hills, Calif. a game against the University of Delaware . Send Us Your News What’s new? Your friends from college want to know. Please send news about your personal and professional life to Class Notes, Alumni Relations, Towson University, 8000 York Rd., Towson, MD 21252-0001 or email [email protected]. Because of production schedules, your news may not appear in the magazine you receive immediately after submitting an item. Name______Class Year______Major______Name at Graduation______Address______City______State______ZIP Code______

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38 towson summer 2011 class notes class notes

Julie Spitz Norin ’92 MCOM/’06 SPPA/’10 AUD completed her doctorate in audiology in May 2010 and accepted a position as an audiologist with the Hearing and Speech Agency in Baltimore. Her doctoral thesis, “Speech Intelligibility and Passive, Level- Dependent Earplugs,” was recently accepted Road to Recovery for publication in Ear and Hearing, the official journal of the American Auditory Society. Mindy Shifflett ’03

Joseph Beam ’95 BUAD was chosen Helping cancer patients by readers of SmartCEO magazine as one of the top business bankers in the Mid-Atlantic. one mile at a time He is vice president and branch manager of Susquehanna Bank’s Timonium, Md., office, where he works to develop and expand commercial Cancer patients face many hurdles. with Sharon Jones-Eversley and now and retail banking relationships. But thanks to an American Cancer So- Audrey Falk, both assistant profes- ciety program— Road to Recovery— sors of family studies and community Vanessa Wolff Marasco HLTH ’96 and transportation to and from appoint- development. her husband, Frank Jr., welcomed their second ments is no longer one of them. “The students over the last three child, Ryan Dominick, on Sept. 12, 2010. He Road to Recovery uses a network semesters have been instrumental joined his sister Hannah Kathryn, 3 1/2. Vanessa of volunteers to drive patients who with volunteer recruitment events, is a senior retirement plan coordinator at T. Rowe need rides to chemotherapy, radiation volunteer recognition initiatives, Robert Gould ’85 Price. The family lives in Reisterstown, Md. therapy and other appointments. outreach at local cancer centers, retired from the David M. Curry ’97 M.A., associate at the “The program gives eager vol- other ACS special events and have U.S. Air Force unteers an opportunity to make a experienced incredible opportunities law firm Farrell Fritz, P.C., was appointed to the and Maryland Air Farmingdale State College Council. Curry has tremendous impact on someone’s life, when meeting new volunteers and won a number of awards, including the “Rising by driving them to their life-saving patients benefitting from the Road to National Guard after Star” award from The Queens Courier in February cancer treatment, thus potentially Recovery program,” Jessica Bernstein, 27 years of service. 2010. Prior to joining Farrell Fritz, Curry was a prolonging their life,” says Mindy Shif- transportation solution manager at real estate attorney at Paul, Hastings, Janofsky flett ’03, a patient resource navigator the American Cancer Society, says. & Walker, LLP in New York. with the American Cancer Society at “We have had and continue to have Greater Baltimore Medical Center. amazing interns from Towson, which Kate Danley ’97 won the Garcia Prize for Shifflett works with patients and has led to full-time employment with best fiction book of the year for her debut novel, their loved ones to locate recourses the organization,” she adds. The Woodcutter. The book is a fantasy mystery and support services as they battle Shifflett is working to promote the revolving around finding a rogue beast and cancer and face financial, psychosocial growth of the Road to Recovery returning it to the “wild hunt.” and transportation-related issues. program. The more volunteers, the She began her association with the more lives saved. And there is the Meghan Liney Donchue ’98 GEOG, American Cancer Society as an intern added benefit of making special a registered nurse at Sunrise Senior Living in during her last semester at Towson. friends because patients and volun- Haverford, Pa., and her husband, John, have three A health science major, she worked teers bond during the drive to and sons: Johnny, 5, Will, 2 ½, and Garrett, 8 months. on a grant to support non-smoking from various appointments. The family lives in Aldan, Pa. on college campuses in the Baltimore Shifflett feels passionately about area. That’s when she realized “how the program and strives to make a Alyce Sparkman Kirk ’98 COMM seemingly small gestures could impact difference in the lives of the patients has been appointed as an associate and the lives of many, ” she says. one mile at a time. public relations manager with RTKL, a global Other Towson students have architecture, planning and design firm. Kirk has followed in her footsteps including —Alex Duncan with Ginny Cook more than 20 years of experience in architecture, those from a course in family studies engineering and construction.

summer 2011 towson 39 class notes class notes

Ottorino Maddalena ’98 MCOM and his 2000s Elizabeth Borowsky ’05 performed wife, Laurie, welcomed their first child, Olivia Ruth, Chopin’s “Concerto in F” minor in U.S. concerts on Jan. 10. She weighed 6 lbs.,13 oz. Dionne N. Curbeam ’00 earned her Doctor that celebrated the Chopin bincentennial including of Education degree from Bowie State University. one at a gala at the Polish Embassy in Washing- Erin Schultz ’98 ELED and her husband, Her dissertation, A Quantitative Analysis of ton, D.C. Her original composition, “An American Kevin, welcomed Jackson Elijah on Feb. 18. Faculty Concerns Regarding a Lecture Capture Tribute to Chopin,” premiered at TU in March. Jackson joins big sister Lilly, 3. Schultz is a System, won the Chair’s Award for Outstanding second-grade instruction team leader for the Research. Laura Toll Marchiano ’05/’09 AUD Howard Country Public School System. married Anthony Marchiano ’11 on Sept. Bob Hamilton ’01 PSYCH earned a 25, 2010 at Cameron Estate Inn in Mount Joy, Pa. Joyell Arscott ’99 BIOL graduated in doctorate in executive leadership/human and Laura is a doctor of audiology at Chesapeake Ear, Dec. 2010 with a B.S. in nursing from the organizational learning from George Washington Nose, & Throat. University of Maryland, Baltimore. She will University. He is the chief operating officer for attend Duke University this fall to complete the James F. Knott Realty Group and was recently Katie Oleske Minogue ’05 and her a doctoral degree in nursing. appointed to the board of trustees of the husband, Kristopher, welcomed their first child Sheppard Pratt Health System. Kylah Giselle on Feb. 6. Jason Contino ’99 MCOM produced a film, Lebanon, Pa., a drama with comedic moments David Balwin ‘10 is Shanica Alphonso ’02 BUAD/’04 M.A. Tonya Blue ’07, an eighth-grade teacher in that is getting a limited theatrical release. The is the director of human resources at PeakLinks Baltimore County for 12 years, self-published teaching fifth grade film has won official selection at the SXSW Film Development Enterprises, a human resources a novel, I am the Children I Teach. The book in Las Colinas Sur, Festival 2010; founder’s prize: best fiction film consulting company in the Washington, D.C., area. examines the issues of two urban students, their Nicaragua. at the Traverse City Film Festival 2010; best film classroom behavior and how this relates to their Brett Kehler ’02 led the Towson alumni made in Pennsylvania at the Philadelphia Film teachers’ childhood experiences. Blue is finishing ice hockey benefit game versus the University Festival 2010; and standout film award at Hells a teacher’s workbook to accompany the novel. Hall Mile Film Festival 2010. of Delaware alumni team as part of the 20th anniversary of the American Collegiate Hockey Rachel Bibbee ’09 is a development Brian ’98 and Heather ’99 Brockmeyer Association. The game raised more than $2,100 associate at TU. Her primary responsibility will Gingold welcomed their son, Aidan Michael, for the American Cancer Society. be the phonathon program but she will also be on June 1, 2010. He weighed 5 pounds, 9 ounces. working with direct mail and e-communication Jennifer Kersey ’03 THEA/MCOM has a Heather is a senior account executive at T. Rowe solicitation efforts. Price. The family lives in Hampstead, Md. performance contract with Disney Cruise Lines on a ship that travels to the Bahamas and Mexico. Sarah Moore ’09 THEA works for Tracee Goode Matthias ’99 /’01 and She also performed in the international tour of Nashville-based Girlilla Marketing. She focused her husband, Lennox, welcomed their first child the “Sound of Music” and at Universal Studios on campaigns for Charlie Sheen LIVE: My Violent Lauren Ethel on Nov. 21, 2010. For five years, Hollywood and at Disneyland. Torpedo of Truth, and the Grammy-winning Tracee has directed Montgomery College’s Zac Brown Band. Educational Opportunity Center which assists low-income and first-generation residents with Jacob Austin ’10 BUAD joined Euro RSCG, college enrollments. an advertising agency in Baltimore, as production traffic manager. He was a media buyer with Siquis Limited Advertising.

David Baldwin ’10 EDU is pursuing his master’s in international teaching while teaching fifth grade at the Lincoln International Academy in Las Colinas Sur, Nicaragua.

Deandre J. Skinner ’10 completed U.S. Navy basic training at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill. During the eight-week program, Skinner completed classroom and practical training in naval customs, first aid, firefighting, water safety and survival, and shipboard and aircraft safety.

40 towson summer 2011 Top left: Welsh meets with former students of the Towson-Shanghai Finance University program. Top right: Welsh meets with President Lee Hyun Chong of Sangmyung University, a 17,000-student institution in Seoul, South Korea, that sends students to Towson for short-term study programs each summer. Bottom left: Welsh visits Sangmyung University in Seoul, South Korea. Bottom right: Welsh visits Incheon’s Inha University. Towson Affirms Its International Presence With Mission To Asia University officials form agreements, strengthen partnerships during 11-day delegation

Interim President Marcia Welsh and fellow campus • the signing of a broad agreement to provide education training officials have returned from East Asia, where they sought programs to the Pudong Education Bureau in Shanghai; to strengthen and reaffirm the overseas academic programs • a meeting with the People’s Education Press on the establishment and partnerships of Towson University. of the Institute for Chinese Learning at Towson, the first of its The journey was part of Governor Martin O’Malley’s kind in the U.S.; 11-day mission to encourage foreign investment, stimulate economic development and strengthen commercial ties • a visit to Shanghai Finance University to discuss its joint degree between Maryland and the continent. program in Risk Management and Actuarial Science; Clay Hickson, executive director of TowsonGlobal, • and a meeting with Sangmyung University to evaluate a summer and Steven Phillips, director of the Asian Studies program program at Towson in English language and American culture for at Towson, were also among the 68 people chosen to Korean students. represent Maryland on the journey. Together with Welsh they visited China, South Korea and Vietnam. To develop opportunities for TowsonGlobal Business “Towson is quickly developing an international Incubator, Hickson also met with representatives of Shang- reputation as an institute for teaching and educational hai Juke Biotech Park; Ningxia Yinxing Energy Co., which excellence,” says Welsh. “This trip allowed us to renew focuses on green technologies and is exploring expansion to longstanding agreements with our partners as well as the U.S.; and Xin Feng Zhuoqun Technology Co. in Beijing. explore and establish new areas of mutually beneficial With international relationships extending back to 1985, cooperation.” Towson has 22 active agreements for broad university- Among several agreements to conduct faculty exchanges to-university exchanges, 19 agreements for study abroad and joint research projects, Towson officials were also students, and 19 contracts or agreements for short-term able to reaffirm and establish connections that included: training programs worldwide. n

summer 2011 towson 41 Graduation The College of Graduate Studies and the magnitude of change that I would Research participated in all ceremonies. undergo when I began two years ago. Ceremonies Each graduate program had its I have been deeply inspired by this A celebration of degrees at the graduation with its home college. experience and am so grateful for this 146th Commencement in May The Honors College graduated chance to grow. 123 students. My mind and heart have been CBS Evening News Anchor Scott broadened through asking questions, Pelley and Pulitzer Prize-winning opening to new ideas, thinking more historian Taylor Branch spoke to Lisa Herbst was flexibly and seeing the “big picture.” graduates of the College of Fine Arts the graduate student My skills as an educator have and Communication and the College speaker for the College increased, I’ve developed lasting of Liberal Arts respectively at two of of Education at the 10 personal resources and grown toward Towson University’s six graduation a.m. Commencement being a better person through relation- ceremonies in May. (Links to videos May 25. ships with faculty and classmates. of their speeches are available at These important relationships http://mediasite2.towson.edu/media- Each of us here today should be begin with the faculty. Faculty at site/Viewer/?peid=71e69efab96d48 proud as we have accomplished Towson have further fostered my joy 78a6b62711e1fcd65d1d and http:// something huge. Many of us work all for learning and helped me recognize mediasite2.towson.edu/mediasite/ day with children and families, eat a accomplishments with pride. They Viewer/?peid=9f068619bef145ce peanut butter and jelly sandwich in share a sense of meaning and purpose 822538793f49cb781d. the car while fighting traffic and arrive in caring for children, and provide During three days, Towson at evening classes sweaty and panting models of respect for cultural and University awarded 2,568 baccalaureate because we ran all the way from the social diversity. These relationships degrees, 735 master’s degrees garage to Hawkins Hall. We wonder are integral to my development as a and certificates, and seven doctoral how many times we can say “No, I professional educator. degrees at its 146th Commencement have to write a paper, or, do a power Equally as important, relationships ceremonies on May 25 through point” to our children, spouses and with classmates create a community, May 27 at the Towson Center. friends before they lose their patience joining us together to pursue a common The College of Education and Col- with us. And, most of us have done goal. These relationships emerged from lege of Fine Arts and Communication this for two years or more. connections based on trust, respect and graduated May 25. The Fisher College Yet, here we are. My fellow gradu- support for each other. We have created of Science and Mathematics and ates represent courage and dedication shared meaning around the cultural College of Liberal Arts graduated to children that is unparalleled. It has experience of caring, which is our May 26. The College of Health Profes- been my privilege to learn and grow culture as educators. sions and the College of Business and side-by-side with all of you. A significant experience for me Economics graduated May 27. Coming to Towson for the master’s during the master’s program was the program in early childhood education study abroad trip last spring to Reggio has transformed me. I had no idea Emilia, Italy. The immersion in Italian 42 towson summer 2011 culture and the Reggio way of caring Thank you and good luck to each “Dad isn’t it about time you gradu- for and educating children taught me one of you. ated? I remember you telling me in so much. My favorite memory of that so many words that I had to finish in trip is visiting several early childhood four years. Sound familiar?” But like programs and classrooms. There Bill Murray was the any good Dad, I just ignored them and I witnessed what it means when a graduate student went on my own way. After graduat- community invests in education, what speaker for the College ing in 2008, not having had enough of it looks like when a community has of Fine Arts and school yet, I applied for the graduate affirmed that the right to education is Communication at the program in music and here I am today the right of citizenship and adults hold 2 p.m. Commencement getting ready to graduate again. Yes, an image of a child as a citizen from May 25. I am slightly on the deranged side. the very beginning. In Reggio Emilia, Shortly after entering the music the right to education and citizenship What an honor to stand before you program, I started teaching e-business guide adult decisions. This is how I today—something I never expected. courses in the College of Business and learned what is possible for children. As you can probably tell, I am not Economics and still am doing that. One week ago in the last class of your typical graduate student. You’re Towson has been key in meeting both this graduate program, my classmate probably asking yourself: What is of my 2002 ambitions. Throughout and friend Linnea made a few com- somebody like my grandfather doing my life, including my Towson experi- ments that I’d like to share with you up there receiving a graduate degree ence, there are three principles that because I think this applies to each in music when he should be enjoy- are the essence of who I am. They are: one of us. She is thankful for know- ing retirement, reading, relaxing on (1) Have passion for what you do, ing each of the members of our class, the beach or golf course, or doing (2) Learn something new every day of and that the experience of sharing our something other than going to school? your life; and (3) Give something back thoughts and feelings throughout the I guess my answer is, “Why not get to those who have been important in semester helped her to gain a deeper a degree in music? Among the many your life. understanding of the multiple perspec- things that I enjoy doing are learning Passion: In order to be good at tives that are present in work with new things and, yes, going to school. what you do, you must do it with pas- children. The most penetrating part You’re probably thinking: This guy sion and put your heart into it. If you of what Linnea said was that from has got to be crazy—going to school. cannot do this, then find something now on, for the rest of her life, she You’ve got to be kidding! else to do because you will not be very would recognize each of us when she When people ask me what I am good at it and more important, you encounters particular students, parents doing, I say that I am in my second will not have the personal satisfaction and families. In recognizing each of us life. For the past nine years Towson doing something you enjoy brings. in them, she will be able make a con- has been the centerpiece of my second I am not the best musician who has nection, to show her understanding of life. In the summer of 2002, I made gone through the program at Towson, each child and family, and ultimately, a decision to take my life in a differ- but I am confident that I rank among do better for children in her care. ent direction. There were two things the most passionate students. Passion For all of this: broadening of mind that I wanted to try. One was to study can make up for a lot of things and and heart, building of skills, relation- music and, in particular, jazz; second, has enabled me to do things I didn’t ships with faculty and classmates, I wanted to see if I could teach at the think were possible. I am profoundly grateful. John F. college level. In the fall of 2002, I took Never stop learning: You are never Kennedy said, “As we express our my first music class to test the waters. too old to learn something new. Just gratitude, we must never forget that I became addicted and decided to ap- look at me. It is possible to teach an the highest appreciation is not to ply for admission and to my amaze- old dog new tricks. I am doing things utter words, but to live by them.” ment was accepted. today in music that several years ago My fellow graduates, the Towson For the next six years I studied I would have said, “There is no way University College of Education offers music and graduated from Towson in I can do that.” Whatever you do, us many words to live by—courage, May, 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in new things will come along and you commitment, relationships, caring, music. I enjoyed this journey except must be willing to learn about them. multiple perspectives, connections for the time I was wondering if I In music, new ways of making music with children, meaning and purpose. would actually pass Musicianship II. appear every day. Music history makes And most important, as I did, barely. The other challenge new revelations every day. Music is Dr. Berkeley, professor of early came from my three children who constantly in evolution and changing childhood education taught us, kept asking me why it was taking just like every other field. Your learn- the professional commitment to more than four years to graduate. ing process does not stop today. “do good and do good well.” The discussion went something like: I don’t want my learning process

summer 2011 towson 43 to stop and in this regard, I need help ful that you will remember at least focusing my attention on academics from you. My nine-year, incredible one of my three principles and apply and athletics to take my mind off of journey of studying music at Towson them to your lives. Don’t forget—pas- the stressful situation, but I couldn’t comes to an end today. So this gradu- sion, learning and giving back will seem to focus on anything. I struggled ation exercise is bittersweet. Since I’ve serve you well. I’d like to thank the in some of my core classes, and my taken virtually every music course people in the Department of Music for cross-country season didn’t fare much Towson offers, what I do next is a real helping me do things that I thought better. I caught pneumonia at the question for me and a concern for my were impossible when I undertook end of the season and could barely wife who does not want me around this journey. I also would like to thank walk, much less run. Each disappoint- the house all the time getting in her all of the music students who were ment made me feel as though part way. So, if you have any ideas, see me willing to put up with and tolerate the of my spirit was fading away to the after the ceremonies. old guy. It’s been a great journey for point where I didn’t recognize myself Give back to those who have helped me and I hope that each and every one anymore. you: Let me be specific about this of you has an experience in your life In January, my parents came home one. We have all benefitted and will on which you can look back and say, for the first time in eight months. They continue to benefit from our Towson “I’m glad that I did that.” My nine were given two weeks of rest and education. If you really feel Towson years at Towson have been one relaxation before returning for the has had an impact on your life and of the most rewarding times of my life. duration of their deployment. We had your future, give something back by I will continue giving back and I hope planned to eat out at all of our favor- supporting Towson’s annual fund that you will as well. Congratulations ite restaurants, see the latest movies, campaign. Every gift counts regardless on completing this phase of your life. and even go on a weekend ski trip. of the amount. I have the privilege of Go forward and have fun with your However, two days after my parents serving on the board of directors of careers and lives. returned home, we received news that the Towson University Foundation my grandfather had passed away. The and know how important these gifts last words my grandfather said to me are in providing scholarships and Brandi Gervais was the were written on a sticky note plastered funding extra programs. For example, undergraduate student in the center of my Christmas present: my wife and I have helped sponsor a speaker for the Fisher “Here are your grandmother’s pearls. jazz residency program, which brings College of Science and Please do me the honor of wearing in a jazz musician each semester for Mathematics at the 10 them at your graduation.” Of course, a week to work with students. This a.m. Commencement I’m wearing them today. gives them the opportunity to play May 26. My grandfather’s death was a blow. with great musicians and learn what it And when my parents returned to Iraq takes to be successful in the jazz music Today is the day! Finally. I’m sure a few days later, I found myself losing business. This program would not be like me, many of you, have been hope. I no longer cared if I graduated possible without external support. daydreaming about this day the past with a 4.0 or ran a spectacular season. Towson’s 125,000 alums haven’t few months when we should have People tried to comfort me, telling adopted the practice of giving to their been paying attention in our classes. me not to worry about my grades or alma mater. When we compare our- And I’m convinced that our professors sports season. In their effort to be selves to our peer schools, we know have felt the same way as they stared kind, I heard “It’s not your fault,” we could do much better. Just think, into an audience full of glassy-eyed “You’re under stress,” “It’s under- this year, Towson will have over 3,300 students. But fellow graduates, we standable,” and even “No one will graduates. If each graduate made a made it! blame you if you fail.” I still shudder gift of $50, $165,000 could be raised. We all have a unique story that led when I think I almost justified losing Think what that could do for scholar- us to this moment. I’d like to share hope. After some soul searching, I ships and programs. So, if you haven’t mine, a story about hope. Senior year realized they were wrong. I would made a donation, start now and feel should have been the best year of my blame myself. We all must deal with good about yourself. Get in the habit life, but it’s been the most difficult so obstacles and triumphs. Triumphs are of doing it each year. It will help those far. Both of my parents are officers in easy to handle. It’s how we deal with who come after us. the Army and were deployed to Iraq the obstacles that will bestow meaning Enough is enough. Forgive me for last May. Growing up as an Army to our lives. being a little preachy. Having been brat and only child, I’ve always been Like me, we’ve all had a unique ex- through a number of commencement extremely close to my parents. Not perience at Towson that has prepared exercises, I know that what I have said having two of my best friends by my us for our future endeavors. Few of will likely pass in and out of your ears side dampened my spirit the moment us will live a charmed life, so we must very rapidly. Nevertheless, I am hope- I dropped them off at BWI. I tried take all that we have learned from the

44 towson summer 2011 past couple of years, along with all memory of this time and place, is such what kind of doors it would open. My our obstacles and triumphs, and let a great honor. I am proud to speak to classmates turned into close friends. hope carry us through our future. We you to share how much this university My professors turned into colleagues. must not waste our precious seconds has given to me. I hope that my words Going out of your way to make small on something that makes us unhappy. today will also reflect the more posi- talk is worth risking embarrassment. As we follow our dreams, we must tive aspects of our time here. Second: Do not be afraid to ask remember that hope is what will guide When I was first approached to be for what you want. As they say, “ask us through our darkest moments and the speaker at today’s commencement, and you shall receive.” Opportunities what reinforces our best ones. My I was initially quite surprised. But as I knock, but sometimes you must do the wish for all of us is to always keep reflected on my experiences at Towson knocking. When I was an undergrad hope in our hearts and to surround University, both as an undergradu- at Towson, I worked at an unpaid ourselves with those who believe in us. ate and graduate student, I realized I summer internship, as a research as- My parents, family, friends, teammates may have something to share. I began sistant at Johns Hopkins. As the sum- and professors were my support—the to understand that my experiences mer came to an end, I realized I was ones who gave me hope—a true gift here may give some insight on what broke, so I approached my supervisor of caring. this university means to me, what and asked them to hire me as a paid Through our Towson experience, Towson means to all of us. I have employee. Terrified of his response, I we’ve formed relationships that will always considered education invalu- knew the worst that could happen was grow over the years as we will rely on able. However, when I first came to he would say no. Three years later, them to help find our way through Towson University over six years ago, I am still working with the research those dark moments we may face. Our fresh out of high school, I could never team. Although this opportunity did Towson education will allow us to have imagined that this place would not come to me, I turned it into an bring hope to so many—together we mean more than the degrees we will opportunity of my own. have opportunities to find cures to dis- be receiving here today. Towson has This is an exciting time to gradu- eases; provide an education to future become the setting of priceless memo- ate with a degree from the College of generations and those less privileged ries, lasting relationships and fulfilling Liberal Arts. We are the largest college than us; and even find better ways to experiences. at Towson University with a diverse protect our environment so that future When I arrived at Towson to variety of majors. Our time and effort generations can experience the same complete my undergraduate degree, I here have forced us to think in differ- landscape that we enjoy today. Never was barely an adult. Today I feel, and ent ways, to challenge ourselves, our lose hope, as I almost did, and never I hope we all feel, a little smarter, a colleagues and our instructors so that underestimate the impact we can and little more experienced, seasoned, and we may always evolve. Change is in- will make in our future endeavors. mature—a little more confident that evitable and higher education supports Our future is what we make of it. One we have what it takes to make it in this change, empowering our ability of my favorite quotes by an unknown the “real world.” We do have what to innovate and to create the future. author says, “Many of the great it takes. And if you think about your After today, as you pursue life with achievements of the world were ac- experience compared to the first day a degree from Towson, I urge you to complished by tired and discouraged of classes here at Towson, either as think beyond the textbook materials men who kept on working.” an undergraduate or graduate, you’ll and lecture slides. Think about the Make sure to thank all of those who realize how much you’ve grown. times you questioned the theories, the have made your experience at Towson My experience at Towson has rules and the formulas, and share your memorable. Congratulations, fellow taught me many things beyond theo- opinions with others. graduates. Today we walk across the ries and textbook information. As my Towson University is now our stage and into our future. fellow graduates prepare to embark alma mater—a fitting description as in their new endeavors, whatever they it means “nourishing mother.” I am may be, I would like to give you two proud to call Towson University by Alexandra Chong main pieces of advice: this term because I see it as a place of Kiskowski was the First: Avoid tunnel vision. You home and family. Understand that the graduate student all know what I am talking about; term “alma mater” is used to describe speaker for the walking around campus avoiding eye the university that you graduate from College of Liberal Arts contact because having an awkward for a reason. After all, we all know at the 2 p.m. Com- conversation or even worse, saying that the maternal relationship or any mencement May 26. hello and not have it reciprocated is parental relationship for that matter mortifying. However, I encourage you certainly has its ups and downs. But Having the chance to speak to you to say hello to people you may only ultimately this university will always on this occasion, to be part of your recognize because you never know be part of your history. So understand

summer 2011 towson 45 that after today, with all of your ups expected and unexpected situations. to be the best at what I am doing. She and downs here, this was the place If there is one thing Towson has taught by example. where you have accomplished an ex- taught me, and I am sure has taught With Dr. Sheffield’s help, I was able traordinary feat—a graduate of higher all of us, it is that education is impor- to formulate my thesis and determine education. And so leave here with a tant. The College of Liberal Arts has the impacts of distorted audio on 3- sense of pride that Towson University instilled in all of us the motivation and 4-year-old’s ability to remember was the place where you’ve grown, to reach our fullest potential in any information. It is because of this re- learned, and succeeded. Thank you situation. An education is more than search that I found myself sitting in a and congratulations class of 2011! just the classes we take and grades tiny chair at the Learning Ladder Day- we get. It is the drive to obtain new care Center. The research was rigorous knowledge, to continue learning and and at times tedious. It took a year Robert Smith was the to make a strong future for ourselves. and a half to complete. Our findings undergraduate student The intellectual and practical skills we are a clear indicator that educational speaker for the College have acquired are the ones we need to toys, which many parents rely on to of Liberal Arts at the 2 succeed. teach basic skills to their children, p.m. Commencement An education in the College of might not be as perfect as they appear. May 26. Liberal Arts depends on its remark- The distortion of the sounds makes it able faculty. As a psychology major, more difficult for children to learn and Last summer, at the Learning Lad- I have had the opportunity to study remember the information being pre- der Daycare Center, I sat in a chair too with professors who have brought out sented. We are currently working on tiny for any adult and looked around my intrinsic motivation and helped getting our research study published as I waited for my first research me to challenge myself in my research. in a peer-reviewed journal, which will participant. I wondered how exactly Under the guidance of Dr. Bryan enable us to share our findings with I ended up here as the first 4-year-old Devan and Dr. Mark Chachich, I have both parents and teachers throughout we were testing walked into the room had the opportunity to work in the the world. smiling and excited. The staff member Laboratory of Comparative Neuro- These psychology faculty members, introduced me to the little girl as Mr. psychology. Our research with rodents like faculty in so many other disci- Bobby. It still makes me laugh today entailed investigating the neural and plines within the College of Liberal that for once I was referred to as neurochemical transmitter systems Arts, offered me the opportunity to “mister.” After allowing the child to involved in different forms of memory learn both inside and outside the class- listen to the audio stories and asking and retention. Likewise, we have used room. They have not only taught me her questions, I walked her back to an adapted version of the Morris useful and practical skills within the her classroom where I was to meet water maze to investigate whether it laboratory setting, they have served as the next participant. The little girl could serve as a potential model to role models throughout my time here grabbed my hand and enthusiastically study different neuropsychiatric dis- at Towson. They have taken the time told me how interesting the stories ease, including obsessive compulsive to train me to be successful researcher. were and how she wanted to listen to disorder and schizophrenia, as well They have also helped me develop more. as neurodegenerative diseases such as intellectually and focus on my career As I left the daycare center, it Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Hunting- aspirations following graduation. I dawned on me that I was actually en- ton’s disease. could not imagine where I would be gaged in research. I was gathering data One of the most influential people without their support and guidance. to measure the impact of educational with regard to both my academic and I have been able to discuss academic toys on children’s ability to remember research career is Dr. Ellyn Sheffield, concerns and goals with every one of information. It was not just reading a head of the Cognitive Development them and have gained a tremendous textbook or a research article describ- Laboratory. Over the past three amount of knowledge about a broad ing the impacts of degraded audio. I years, I have been privileged to get to spectrum of career opportunities. actually got to see how children per- know Dr. Sheffield and to work in the These conversations will ultimately formed with poor quality sounds. laboratory. Dr. Sheffield has helped help to shape my future. Before I came to Towson, I could me to explore research on memory, As a result of this mentoring, I not have imagined that I would be do- the cognitive development of children chose to follow a career in medicine in ing research and working on my own and psycholinguistics. She taught the field of Child and Adolescent Psy- thesis, let alone working with chil- me the essential skills to become a chiatry. I would never have dreamed dren. Yet, this is exactly what Towson determined and successful researcher. of become a psychiatrist without the has to offer, the opportunity to strive, More importantly she demonstrated substantial knowledge on biological prosper and learn, both within and for me how to be a diligent researcher, mechanisms and child development outside the classroom, and in both to love what I am doing and the ways that I learned while working in the

46 towson summer 2011 two psychology laboratories. My goal not do it—I found inspiration to keep of that process. The education that as a psychiatrist will be to better the me going. I would like to share with we have received here at Towson will lives of individuals struggling with you one example. serve us all well. I will continue to use mental illnesses. Obviously, there Last year at the height of our studies the knowledge and skills that I have are many children from a range of and three months from the historical learned here to fulfill my purpose and diverse backgrounds who suffer from move of Washington County Hospital meaning. psychiatric disorders, who struggle to to a new building with a new name I am so thankful for the opportunity succeed in life and desperately require (Meritus Medical Center), my colleges to complete my master’s degree while help. It is my hope that one day I will and I began to feel the stress of the continuing to work and care for my be able to work with such children added demands from our jobs, and the family. It has been a privilege but I and prepare them to become better requirements of the full-time workload would be remiss without remembering integrated in society. from the master’s program. Dr. Kathy all of the people that made this pos- It is clear to all of us that children Ogle came to visit our Hagerstown sible. Obtaining my master’s degree begin to learn at a very young age campus. As she listened attentively to would not have been likely if it were and need the guidance of parents our concerns, the multiple questions not for the continued support of my and teachers. But what about adults? could be summed up with just one: family and friends. Please take a mo- Aren’t we also constantly learning and “How can we possibly get this all ment to applaud the family, friends, growing? As College of Liberal Arts done?” faculty and staff that have made this graduates, we recognize that although I recall her smiling calmly as we possible for you. graduation is the end of our time at waited for the best-kept secret to So as you embark upon your Towson University, the true defini- managing all of the demands of life chosen career path, I hope that you tion of commencement is a beginning and graduate studies. Dr. Ogle calmly can remember Dr. Ogle’s message to or start. This is exactly what we are said to us all, “Breathe.” “breathe” when things get a bit chal- about to do. We are about to begin I remember the silence immediately lenging. Take time to reflect on your again on a new journey outside of afterward. Although I think that Dr. purpose and meaning to keep you Towson. As we embark, we must al- Ogle’s intent was to be a directive inspired. In the process you may in- ways continue to learn, to strive, and to a very driven, “Type A” class, it spire others. The future of healthcare to succeed at whatever we choose for became inspirational to me. Being is counting on your continued success. our futures. overwhelmed by the competing priori- Congratulations! ties, taking a pause to reflect gave me the opportunity to remember to focus Pamela Holtzinger was on my career compass: purpose and Marion Gerlach was the graduate student meaning. the undergraduate speaker for the College In my 27 years as a nurse, I have student speaker for of Health Professions at seen the expanding role of healthcare the College of Health the 10 a.m. Commence- providers to include growth into Professions at the 10 ment May 27. specialty areas such as my role as a a.m. Commencement forensic nurse. This is a very exciting May 27. I am so honored to address my time. However, the current state of fellow graduates today. I feel that healthcare is complex and challeng- Throughout my time at Towson my there is so much to say, but I have ing. At times it can be overwhelming mind has been opened to new ideas been guided by the experiences that as we consider the impact of regula- and methods for solving problems that I have as an educator—keep it brief. tions, ethical dilemmas and financial have all furthered my knowledge base I am so thankful to have had the constraints on our day-to-day work. and challenged me to reach my full po- opportunity to complete my master’s The demands of healthcare provid- tential. I have engaged in new experi- degree in nursing. This has been an ers have never been higher. As our ences, met new people and encouraged elusive goal but the Towson cohort in country struggles with a resolution those around me to perform to the best Hagerstown made it possible for me to the current healthcare crisis, I am of their abilities. and 12 of my colleagues to continue confident that the answer will not be Over the past four years, we have to work and maintain a somewhat found in the meeting rooms of politi- succeeded and failed together, we’ve “normal” family life. I have been told cal offices across the country but it worked together on countless projects many times over the years “I don’t will be found at the bedside or in the and assignments—and through each know how you do it all.” Honestly, clinics of the patients that we serve, by experience we have depended on one there have been times that I wasn’t the people who serve them—health- another. I know I have found great val- really sure. It was by no means easy— care providers. I am also confident ue in learning from my peers and also but when I thought perhaps I could that we are better prepared to be part enabling them to realize their potential

summer 2011 towson 47 and find their own unique path to suc- success throughout my college career, all things are possible for those who cess. But, we haven’t done it alone. and last but not least those special believe.” I feel as though these at- We all know we have amazing and professors. Dr. Ponce, you have been tributes she considers to be important passionate professors. During my such a wonderful part of my experience for success do not just lend themselves tenure they have always answered and here at Towson. You have helped me to winning races on a track, but also encouraged my multitude of questions. with everything from tests and apply- demonstrate what is needed to be Through them I have learned to never ing to graduate school to relationship great in school and life in general. She stop asking, never give up, and never issues, and I am so grateful for the demonstrated these traits during her stop striving to learn. Remember, there time you have spent with me. Professor battle with Grave’s disease. She never is no such thing as a stupid question. Barton and Professor Moxley, you are let her dream of becoming an Olympic Questions that led to those “put-you- such a great teaching team and a joy champion fade, and won her medals on-the-spot” situations we are all so to be around. Thank you for choos- after recovering from the symptoms of familiar with, while not necessarily ing me to be one of your teaching this disease. Her story is an example desired at the time, can be looked assistants. It has been a great learning of how a person can achieve their back upon and deemed beneficial. The experience and a great opportunity. Dr. greatest dreams in the face of enor- professors who chose to challenge me Kubitz, you have been through quite mous obstacles. to think outside the box and obtain the a few classes with me and you prob- A similarity for us graduates to answers I was searching for have done ably know how I learn the best out of what Ms. Dever’s experienced, is, me a great favor. I realize now that everyone. You truly worked with me to that much like the Olympics, it has they have helped me grow as a life-long the best of your abilities to enhance my taken most of us four years to arrive student and consumer of knowledge. learning. You never cease to challenge at this moment. The difference is that We have been pushed to go fur- me every time I walk into your office. instead of running around a track for ther than the bare minimum, to push Now that our time here at Towson a few seconds to determine if she will the envelope and to show our true has come to a close, we can look back be a winner, you will, in a very short potential. More important, we’ve been at all of the achievements we have time, walk across this stage for a few encouraged to not give up when we made, those great and small, yet none moments to show that you already are pushed past what we thought was insignificant, and be proud to say, “We are. Her gold medals represented more our limit. Withstanding difficulties is did it.” Some of us may not know just than just a triumph during one indi- a valuable tool that we will take with yet where we are headed, but that is vidual race. They validated four years us throughout our lives. Being taught okay. Do not settle for something just of hard work, dedication and sacrifice. by professors, who love to teach and because you think that is what you The same holds true for all today. love what they teach, has made all the should be doing. Take chances and This graduation ceremony is a great difference. They have made me love accept failures when they present them- moment in time, but it represents so everything about the field that I am in selves. You may not succeed right away much more. This day is only possible through their passion and commitment but by trying you will find your own because you not only believed that to helping students like me. We have path to follow. I believe we all have the you could do it, but that you were chosen to enter into fields that require potential to be great; we just have to determined to see this dream through. us to be patient, compassionate and fo- allow ourselves to be. The fact that you are sitting here this cused. Remembering why we do what Congratulations Class of 2011 and afternoon shows how successful you we do and whom we do it for will be good luck to you all! truly are, and illustrates just a small imperative to our success. portion of what you can accomplish On behalf of the graduating class, if you put your mind, body and soul I would like to thank the parents, Jason Shafran was into something. grandparents and everyone who has the graduate student I feel that I have earned the right to supported us throughout the years. I speaker for the Col- be up on this stage, graduating from would personally like to thank a few lege of Business and this great university with an MBA. people that have made such a dif- Economics at the 2 It all started for me in 1998 when I ference in my life and college career. p.m. Commencement enrolled in Towson as an undergrad First and foremost—my parents. They May 27. without a major. It took me five years have been so supportive in so many to finally graduate, but I left with different ways. I am very thankful for Three-time Olympic gold medalist degrees in history and economics and their love and willingness to help me in Gail Devers once said, “Keep your a handful of awards. After being in all ways possible, and I do not know dreams alive. Understand to achieve the workforce for a few years, it be- what I would do without them. To my anything requires faith and belief in came clear to me that I would have to grandparents who have always been so yourself, vision, hard work, deter- acquire an advanced degree to have an encouraging, loving and excited for my mination and dedication. Remember opportunity to reach my full poten-

48 towson summer 2011 tial in my career. I decided to pursue change. Our generation will face many “Well, time for college.” Now, I’m an MBA, and began researching the challenges including multiple wars, standing here getting ready to graduate different programs in the area. That’s a changing economy and political from college thinking “Well, time to when I came across the University of divisiveness. The answers to these face the real world.” It’s an overwhelm- Baltimore/Towson University joint issues will not be simple, but every ing thought, but I feel really blessed MBA program. I signed up for an generation faces problems that have to have great parents and a family orientation meeting in early 2007, to be solved. These are opportunities supporting me in whatever I do, as I’m and I immediately knew that this is for great individuals to come up with sure most of you do as well. Neither where I wanted to be. I even ran into innovative and creative solutions, and of my parents had the opportunity some of my old professors that helped it is people like you who are going to go to college, so they have always reinforce my decision to come back to to step up and provide them. It is been adamant about my brother and I Towson. people like you that give me hope that earning our college degrees so that we While it took me another four years everything will be fine. Don’t ever would each have the opportunity to to complete this program, in the end it back down from challenges in life, and pursue not only careers of our choices was so worth it. That does not mean always remember this day as an ex- but also careers we are truly passion- that it was an easy journey. Many ample of what you can do. Remember ate about. As we all know, graduating times I wondered if I would be able that you possess traits like determina- from college is a challenge, but one to handle the coursework while jug- tion and faith that can inspire yourself thing that helped me personally was gling time with my family, work and and others to greatness. Believe in to remember something that my mom friends. At some points along the way yourself, and find something that always told me when I would feel it felt like I just took on too much, you’re passionate about in life. That is frustrated or stressed about a class or and the stress was unbearable. Despite my wish for all of you. an assignment. She would say, “Just do these challenges and more, those at- In conclusion, I would like to thank your best; that’s all you can do.” This tributes like faith in my abilities, hard the people that put up with me during bit of advice is relevant not only now, work and dedication were always my time in the program. I understand but in everything we do since, to me, stronger than any desire to ever give that there were times when I made life is really just one long string of chal- up. Each semester I would pass my this as hard on them as it was for me. lenges that we each need to overcome classes and gain a little more confi- I couldn’t have done this without the and learn from. dence. Soon enough I could see the support of my wife, Amy, my family Take our time here at Towson Uni- light at the end of the tunnel, and now and friends, and also the wonderful versity. In the last few years, we have that I’m standing up here today professors. I truly appreciate all of you. each been faced with challenges like I can tell myself that I’m proud of Lastly I would like to say that you mastering the art of finding commuter what I did, and no one can take this can never really show your parents parking spaces or having to reorganize away from me. I am leaving this how much you truly appreciate the class schedule we wanted five min- program as a more confident and everything they’ve done for you. I utes prior to enrollment because one of knowledgeable person, and I hope would like to thank mine right now the classes filled up. We can choose to all of you feel the same way too. for coming out from Chicago to see see these things as frustrating circum- I’d also like to add one quick me graduate, and to let you know that stances, or we can understand that they message for any of the undergraduates my brothers and I are the men we are taught us perseverance and patience. here today who are looking to con- today because of you. We love you One challenge that we are all cur- tinue their education, or those that do very much. rently facing is finding the job that we not have any immediate plans for the Congratulations again to the class have been working so hard to get, es- future. I would like to invite you to of 2011, and good luck. Thank you. pecially during these current economic consider looking into the UB/Towson conditions. The thing that will set us MBA program. It is a great program apart the most from our competition that deals with real-life skills, and is Christina Barsotti was is our degree from Towson University. run in a very professional manner by the undergraduate The Towson University degree comes professors with extraordinary abilities. student speaker for with the current reputation in the busi- I can promise you that you will not be the College of Business ness world that Towson students and disappointed. and Economics at the graduates have an impeccable work I hope all of you have had wonder- 2 p.m. Commencement ethic. We know that to be successful, ful experiences during your time at May 27. we have to put in a lot of hard work Towson, and now believe that you and don’t expect anything to be handed can accomplish any task you decide Four years ago, I sat in this audito- to us. Our hard work will help us, not to take on. We leave this university rium when I graduated from Perry Hall only now, but during our continued when the world is experiencing great High School and I thought to myself, success in the future. As Towson gradu-

summer 2011 towson 49 ates, we need to continue to show the “If at first you do succeed, try that if you’re willing to put in the business world that no matter what, something harder.” I’m taking this as necessary work, then anything is we can do what needs to be done. a challenge to always push myself to possible. Plus, it’s better to try and I’d like to finish by sharing a little achieve bigger and better things and fail than to look back years later advice that I found in a very unusual I also urge each of you to do the same. and regret never trying at all. place. A few weeks ago, I cracked open Don’t settle on doing something just Congratulations to everyone and a fortune cookie and discovered a because it’s the easiest or least stressful I can’t wait to see where our futures mantra to live by. The fortune said, choice. I’ll always be a firm believer take us! n

Men’s Lacrosse who is still active as an athlete, Shawn at Princeton and was a member of has great name recognition with the three consecutive NCAA Tournament Gets New Leader lacrosse community. We look forward teams. Princeton won the NCAA Shawn Nadelen named head coach to keeping him and his wife, Mary, Division I title in 2002 and reached a professor at Towson, here as key the semi-finals in 2004. A four-year members of our Tiger family.” starter and a captain for the Blue Jays Nadelen just completed his seventh as a senior, Nadelen moved from the season at Towson and his second at midfield position to close defense as the team’s associate head coach and a junior. He led the Blue Jays to the defensive coordinator. Since Nadelen NCAA semi-finals twice during his arrived at Towson in 2004, he has playing career and was named an sparked a defensive resurgence in all-American in 2001. which the Tigers have allowed an av- In addition to coaching, Nadelen erage of nine or fewer goals four times has continued his playing career at the and finished among the nation’s top indoor and outdoor professional level. 20 defenses twice, including this year A three-time Major League when the Tigers allowed 8.23 goals Lacrosse champion with the Chesa- Shawn Nadelen, A highly-decorated per game. peake Bayhawks, Nadelen is currently and respected collegiate and profes- During his first year at Towson, the in his 11th season with the franchise. sional player and TU associate head Tigers ranked ninth in NCAA Division He is the only player to have all coach took over Tigerthe Tiger men’s I in scoring defense, allowing just 7.88 played in all 11 years of the team’s lacrosse program in May. goals per game. It was the Tigers’ best existence. “Shawn’s championship experience goals against average since the 1974 Nadelen also completed his 10th at the collegiate, professional and in- season when the Tigers won the Divi- season as a player in the National ternational levels as both a player and sion II national championship with Lacrosse League. He has played seven a coach make him the ideal leader for a 7.3 goals against average. In 2006, seasons for the Philadelphia Wings Towson Lacrosse,” says Mike Wad- the Tigers ranked third in the CAA after stints with the New Jersey Storm dell, director of athletics. “When you with an 8.42 goals against average and Minnesota Swarm. One of his look in his eyes, there is the intensity while holding opponents to under 10 greatest highlights as a player came in of a champion and a resolve which goals nine times. In 2008, the Tigers the Summer of 2010 when he recov- will bring the most out of our student- were fourth in the CAA with an 8.48 ered from a serious knee injury to help athletes on and off the field. He is the average. Towson has recruited and de- Team USA win the gold medal at the perfect choice to continue the coach- veloped many talented players during Federation of International Lacrosse ing legacies of Carl Runk and Tony Nadelen’s tenure, including 17 first- World Championships in England. Seaman. team and 17 second-team all-Colonial A native of Rochester, N.Y., “While at Towson, Shawn has so- Athletic Association performers. In Nadelen is married to the former lidified himself as part of the collegiate addition, eight freshmen have been Mary Ciolek, who is a certified lacrosse landscape here in Baltimore selected to the CAA All-Rookie squad. athletic trainer and a member of and across the county as this sport Prior to joining the Towson staff, Towson’s kinesiology faculty. The continues to expand from coast to Nadelen spent three years as an as- couple resides in the Baltimore area. n sistant coach for Coach Bill Tierney coast,” Waddell added. “As someone Courtesy of Athletic Media Relations

50 towson summer 2011 Coaching Legend schools, earning the award in 1983 Peter Schlehr ’71 and 1984 while at the University of Tony Seaman Resigns Pennsylvania and during the 2001 Retires From Towson After season when he led the Tigers to the Athletic media relations director 13 Years NCAA Division I Semifinals. never missed a football game and He is the only coach in NCAA Divi- covered 1,000 basketball games Hall of Fame coach led Tigers to five sion I men’s lacrosse history to guide in his 35-plus year career NCAA tournament appearances, four three different schools (Penn, Johns conference championships Hopkins, Towson) to the NCAA Tournament. In 13 years at Towson, the Tigers reached the NCAA Tour- nament five times (2001, ‘03, ‘04, ‘05, ‘07). During his stint at Towson, Seaman compiled record of 99-93, which included four conference championships – the last of which came in 2005 when the Tigers won their third straight Colonial Athletic Association championship. As the head men’s lacrosse coach A veteran of more than 35 years as at Johns Hopkins University, Seaman the director of athletic media relations Towson University head men’s coached the United States National at TU, Peter Schlehr ’71 put down his lacrosse coach and Baltimore Team in the 1994 ILF World pen and turned off his laptop, retiring Lacrosse Hall of Famer Tony Seaman Championships in Manchester, on June 30, 2011. announced his resignation May 9 England. He led the United States “Pete is a Tiger through and after completing his 13th season at to a perfect record and the title through and has dedicated most of his Towson and 30th overall. after beating Australia, 21-7, life to this university and our athletics “Change is always difficult, but in the championship game. program,” said Mike Waddell, direc- exciting,” says Seaman. “Old doors Seaman and Towson are working tor of athletics. “While we will miss close and new ones open and I look for- to develop a position within the him around campus on a daily basis, ward to the challenges that lie ahead.” Department of Athletics where he will we are excited that he will remain The 2011 season marked the end continue to be involved as a mentor to involved working on future special of Seaman’s third decade as a head the coaches and work with the Tiger projects. coach. Coming into this season, his Club and its fundraising efforts. “Pete has represented this program 260 wins and .625 winning percentage “With his vast wealth of knowl- with a tremendous amount of integrity ranked seventh and 12th respectively edge as a coach, Tony will be a great and professionalism,” he added. among active NCAA coaches. asset to our administrative staff,” said “He is a ‘Tiger for Life.” “Tony is a coach with Hall of Fame Waddell. “Tony has endeared himself A native of Bel Air, Md., Schlehr credentials and a love and passion for to the Baltimore community and he graduated from Towson with a degree the sport of lacrosse,” said Towson will use his ties to improve the lives in political science and history. He was Director of Athletics Mike Waddell. of every student-athlete, present, past the sports editor of The Aegis for two “He has given everything he has into and in the future.” n years before taking a position with the this program over the last 13 years sports staff of The Baltimore News- Courtesy of Athletic Media Relations and has made a difference in the lives American. During his years with The of the kids he has coached. We wish News-American, he covered amateur, Tony and his wife Guri all the best scholastic and college sports. moving forward and it is our most He was named as the sports infor- sincere hope that they will stay active mation director at his alma mater in with the Towson program that has December 1975. such a special place in their heart.” A long-time member of the Seaman has guided his teams into College Sports Information Directors the NCAA Division I Tournament 19 of America (CoSIDA), Schlehr was times. He is one of only two coaches the recipient of numerous publica- to have been honored as the National tions awards for his work on football Coach of the Year at two different guides, men’s basketball guides, men’s

summer 2011 towson 51 lacrosse guides, swimming guides and Well-regarded in college lacrosse football game programs. circles, Schlehr was the winner of From 1976 to 1978, Schlehr also the USILA’s prestigious Doyle Smith served as the information director for Media Award in 1992. He also served the Mason-Dixon Conference. He as the official scorer for the NCAA Di- was also the publicity director for the vision I men’s lacrosse championship Greater Baltimore Chapter of the game five times. In 2003 and 2004, National Football Foundation and he was the media coordinator for the Hall of Fame for seven years. NCAA Division I, Division II and Schlehr never missed a football Division III men’s lacrosse champion- game during his 35 seasons as the SID. ships at M&T Bank Stadium in 2003 In his first season as the SID, Towson and 2004. He also had served as the earned an NCAA Division III playoff media coordinator for the 1982 World berth and made it to the national Lacrosse Games hosted by Baltimore. championship game, the Stagg Bowl. An active member of CoSIDA, he While the Tiger football program served on a number of panels during ascended from NCAA Division III his career. In 2001, he was the recipi- status to Division II affiliation to its ent of CoSIDA’s 25-Year Award. current standing as an NCAA FCS The longest-tenured member of the program, Schlehr was present at 378 Tigers’ athletic department, Schlehr consecutive games. His streak of 378 was honored for 35 years of service by football games worked stands as one of TU in May. the longest streaks in CoSIDA history. He and his wife, Sande, are both In addition, Schlehr worked more Towson graduates and they reside in than 1,000 men’s basketball games, Bel Air, Md. Their children, Kristien including five NCAA Division II Foss and Peter Schlehr, also graduated Tournament games in 1976-77 and from Towson. Sande, Kristien and 1977-78. During those two years, he Peter teach in the Harford County also served as the media coordinator School system. n for the NCAA South Atlantic Regional Courtesy of Athletic Media Relations Tournament in the Towson Center. In 1990, Schlehr accompanied the East Coast Conference champion Tigers to Austin, Texas for their NCAA Tournament game against number one-ranked Oklahoma. A year later, he travelled with the ECC champions when they were matched up with Ohio State in an NCAA Tour- nament contest in Dayton, Ohio. He also served as the media coordi- nator for the ECC Basketball Tourna- ment, which was hosted by the Tigers from 1984 to 1991. Throughout his career, Schlehr worked more than 300 men’s lacrosse games for the Tigers, including NCAA Tournament appearances in 1989, 1991, 1992, 1994, 1996, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2007. In 1991, he accompanied the Tigers when they reached the national championship game at Syracuse. He was also there when the Tigers qualified for the Final Four at Rutgers in 2001.

52 towson summer 2011 A scholarship can give that gentle push of encouragement needed to continue pursuing an education.

“Chanel will become the first of her family to graduate from college thanks in part to the generosity of longtime friend and supporter of Towson University, Ruth Marder, who was committed to providing Baltimore’s brightest students access to quality education.

For more information on how you can make this kind of a difference, please call: ”

Donna Mayer Associate Vice President for Development [email protected] Toll-free: 1-866-301-3375 www.towson.edu/supportTU

Read more about Chanel and other Foundation Scholars at www.towson.edu/foundationscholars

Chanel Hines, Class of 2012 Business Administration major Recipient of the Ruth Marder Presidential Endowment for Top Ten Scholars.

Office of Development, 8000 York Road, Towson, MD 21252-0001 | 1-866-301-3375 www.towson.edu/supportTU Non-Profit Alumni Relations U.S. Postage Towson University PAID 8000 York Road Towson University Towson, MD 21252-0001

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ALUMNI HOMECOMING TAILGATE FESTIVAL

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2011 2 P.M. – 6:30 P.M. LOT 21 • UNITAS STADIUM Tailgating and Football Fun

Do you have a group of TU friends and classmates coming back for homecoming? Reserve a tent for your group at the Festival. look for more details on page 31.

TOWSON TIGERS VS. COLGATE For further information, please contact the • Office of Alumni Relations at 800-887-8152 or KICK-OFF AT 7 P.M. UNITAS STADIUM [email protected] or visit the homecoming football tickets: web site at www.towson.edu/homecoming. 410-704-2244 • www.towsontigers.com