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CELEBRATE HOMECOMING / SAT., OCT. 22

Join us for a high-spirited day of food, fun and football at the Alumni Tailgating Festival before the Tigers take on the University of .

TAILGATING: 11:30 a.m. / FOOTBALL: 3:30 p.m.

To tailgate in the Alumni Tailgating Festival area, you MUST reserve a designated space. Call the Office of Alumni Relations at 410-704-2234. Reservations are first-come, first-served.

More details are inside on page 23 or visit www.tutigertracks.com/homecoming THEATRE SIGNS For football tickets, call 1-855-TU-TIGER (1-855-888-4437) or visit towsontigers.com The world of deaf playwright and author Willy Conley ’98 MFA BIG PICTURE

ITALIAN FOCUS

The Duomo, the Gothic cathedral in Siena, Italy, formed the perfect backdrop for Bekka Inglefield to snap a picture of her friend Marilyn Hartzell when the women took a side trip to the Tuscan city. They were among 11 students from TU’s College of Education who spent more than two weeks studying in the Italian cities of Vicenza, Reggio Emilia and Florence as part of TU’s Study Abroad Program The students—most of them elementary, mid- dle or secondary education majors—were part of the university’s “Teaching with an International Perspective” program.

Photo by Peggy Ryan STUDENT SPOTLIGHT FEATURES

““On a sunny summer day, the panels are estimated to produce as much as eight to 10 percent of the campus electrical load.”

HERE COMES THE SUN 12 | RUSHING TO THE PROS Five Former Tigers Make the NFL. Four years ago TU students came up with a bright idea—install solar DEPARTMENTS panels to power campus buildings. Former SGA members Samantha Figueroa ’16 and Drew Voigt ’16 PRESIDENT’S LETTER | 4 14 | POWERED BY THE PEN were two key advocates who TU’s nonprofit writing course teaches students worked with campus engineers NEWS & NOTES | 5 and procurement staff to ensure to write grants and empower communities. the project was financially and logistically feasible. WE ASKED | 10 This fall, 4,000 solar panels will Wayne H. Nelson discusses | HEARING EYES begin soaking up the sun on the emergency preparedness. Willy Conley ’98 MFA, professor of General Services building, Barton theatre arts at , and Douglass Houses, and the ALUMNI NEWS | 23 celebrates deaf identity and culture University Union and the Union Celebrate Homecoming 16 Garage. Distinguished Alumnus and both on and off stage. The panels are expected to Deans Recognitions produce nearly 2,000 megawatt Joseph Ferrante Scholarship hours of solar energy per year that 20 | NOT IN HER BACKYARD will help reduce energy costs on PHILANTHROPY | 29 Activist Destiny Watford helped stop plans campus. to build an incinerator in her neighborhood. “We were just freshman when Alumni Giving Increases | DREW VOIGT ’16 we presented the idea, and now Robert Ward Endowed That victory won the TU senior worldwide Scholarship in Creative Writing MAJOR: INFORMATION it’s coming to fruition,” says Voigt. acclaim and a $175,000 Goldman TECHNOLOGY “It’s been awesome to see that with Environmental Prize. passion and teamwork, students CLASS NOTES | 32 EXECUTIVE TEAM can turn big ideas into reality.” The Right Steps LEADER, TARGET “Being involved in the solar com- An Animated Guy mittee has been a really rewarding experience overall,” Figueroa says. “I honestly couldn’t think of a better | SAMANTHA way to finish out my time at Towson then with seeing a project I began FIGUEROA ’16 working on my freshman year come MAJOR: MASS COMM full circle.” BENEFITS ASSOCIATE, WILLIS2 TOWERS WATSON 3

TU BRINGS NEW ENERGY TO BTU TOWSON COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM towson university’s partnerships and relationships with greater UNIVERSITY communities get a new focus with btu. Just PRESIDENT’S LETTER The energy that makes Center for Geographic Towson University a Information Studies Sayin’ FALL 2016 ISSUE leader in innovation is (CGIS), and a relation- I am enjoying my first fall in — being converted into ship with Building Steps, and soon my first Towson University BTU, the new name of a nonprofit dedicated Homecoming—as the academic year gets the outreach and part- to helping city students into full swing. Kim Schatzel nership efforts that join graduate from college. We welcomed more than 22,250 Towson President TU with organizations Now, only nine percent Tigers to campus this term. Of those, about in Greater Baltimore to of city high school 4,840 were new students, and about half Ginny Cook make significant differ- graduates finish college, of them transferred from four-year uni- Editor ences in people’s lives. but the Building Steps versities or community colleges. So, we’re More than 9,000 students have been part program helps 80 percent of its participants putting even greater emphasis on helping of the 167 existing partnerships, according earn their degrees. these new and nontraditional students Lori Armstrong to the BTU website. One example is “BTU will demonstrate and represent the launch into college life. Associate Vice President, the community improvement and anthro- energy, power, and work of our university The momentum continued during Presi- Alumni Relations pological advocacy work between TU and through faculty, staff and students, and dential Inauguration week where we cele- the Sharp-Leadenhall neighborhood of invests in the Greater Baltimore region brated TU’s proud history of leadership. I Lori Marchetti Southwest Baltimore, led for 10 years through our partnerships with our com- am honored to follow the visionary leaders Art Director/Designer by anthropology professors Matthew munity and business partners,” says TU who led Maryland’s first teacher-train- Durington and Sam Collins. President Kim Schatzel. “It gives greater ing school and guided its evolution over There’s also a web app to help parents purpose and presence to the work already 150 years. Today, TU offers an exemplary Kanji Takeno find the closest quality child care to their underway.” comprehensive education while serving Staff Photographer home or workplace, developed by TU’s the state’s greatest workforce needs and preparing students for postgraduate study. Lauren Castellana We take our role in workforce prepara- Assistant Photographer “We’re developing tion seriously. That’s why we’re developing plans to create a world-class career center DREAM ISLAND | Naoko plans to create a that engages students from internship to Contributors Maeshiba, professor of theatre arts retirement. The center will enhance our Megan Bradshaw, Christine and director of TU’s MFA in Theatre world-class career career advising and job placement for Collins, Ray Feldmann ’77, Arts program, received the $5,000 students after graduation and well into Daryl Lee Hale ’16, Board of Governors Award from the center that their careers. Perhaps as important, it will Kyle Hobstetter, Jan Lucas Greater Baltimore Cultural Alliance. also forge a stronger connection to the and Gay Pinder The Japanese-born director and chore- engages students business community and highlight TU’s ographer performing in “Dream Island” impact on the workforce and economic Office of Alumni Relations (2015) below. View her award winning from internship development of our state. portfolio. 410-704-2234 or 800-887-8152 Finally, I firmly believe we can com- to retirement.” petitively advantage our graduates if we bakerartist.org/winners/ VISIT continue our work toward becoming an naoko-maeshiba/2016/ inclusive campus where all of our students can thrive and, most important, learn to support others to thrive. A national search VISIT US ONLINE “I got enough of a is underway for the vice president of NURSING inclusion and institutional equity, a new towson.edu TLC | The College of Health Professions is nugget that I was position that will help us advance this one of just 50 schools nationwide—and the @TU institutional priority. magazine.towson.edu only one in Maryland—to receive funding hooked. I knew I There’s significant opportunity ahead to host nursing white coat ceremonies that Nursing white coat for TU to realize its potential as the state’s champion compassionate care. ceremonies champion wanted to expose fastest-growing and second-largest uni- The Arnold P. Gold Foundation and the compassionate versity. I look forward to working with our American Association of Colleges of Nurs- care. this richness to the alumni, partners, and supporters to build a ing have partnered to help schools of better and stronger foundation for our fu- nursing continue to host the ceremonies, United States.” ture success. There’s much to be proud of which emphasize the importance of at Towson University, and there are great providing humanistic, patient-centered things ahead. care among health professionals. Catherine Horta-Hayden, TU dance professor and outgoing Published three times a year by the Division of Marketing and Communications for Towson president of CORPS de Ballet University’s alumni, faculty, staff and friends. International, regarding her visit Please send comments and contributions to the National Ballet School of to Towson, Marketing and Communications, Kim Schatzel Cuba in Havana and her exposure Towson University, 8000 York Rd., Towson, MD towson university president 21252-0001. Telephone: 410-704-2230. Please to its unique training system. send address changes to Alumni Relations, Sarasota Herald Tribune online Towson University, 8000 York Rd., Towson, MD June, 2016 21252-0001 or email [email protected].

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TU’S PRESIDENT INAUGURATED 6 the 14th president of towson university, kim schatzel, ph.d., YOU’RE is formally installed sept. 16 HIRED | William Newman Just won CBE’s 2016 Kim Schatzel, Ph.D., was formally inaugu- Schatzel then delivered her inaugural “Associate” com- rated as the university’s 14th president on address, followed by the Chorale’s perfor- Sept. 16 as the culmination of a weeklong mance of the university’s new alma mater. Sayin petition, earning ’ 9 a position with series of special events on campus. “I view this inauguration as a celebration 1 Vantage Realty. WHERE A’S Inauguration Week began on Sat., of the proud 150-year history of Towson TOP 100 | The Millersville, BEGIN | When Sept. 10 with a faculty-staff picnic, followed University and a look ahead at the next 150 by TU’s football home opener against St. years,” Schatzel said of her inauguration. TU’s College of Md., native was the next phase Francis in Unitas Stadium, which honored “It is truly a celebration of the university, Education was 4 president of the TU of Cook Library’s first responders. The week concluded with its many contributions to Maryland, and ranked as one of American Market- renovations is YOUR RIDE an Ailey II Dance Company performance its people.” the Top 100 Best ing Association, a completed by the at Stephens Hall Theatre on the following To involve as many individuals and Graduate Schools IS HERE | member of Alpha fall, one of the Saturday evening. groups in the inauguration event as in Education for Parking & Trans- Kappa Psi and a most anticipated The week’s activities included inaugural possible, the processional party included 2017 by U.S. News portation Services marketing intern new spaces will speaker Andrew Solomon, author of Far representatives of TU student leadership and World Report. implemented an for CBE’s Student be a 50-seat, 24/7 enhanced shuttle Academic and study zone. From the Tree: Parents, Children and the organizations, distinguished TU alumni, tracking system Career Services Search for Identity. There was also a lecture, TU faculty, and presidents and delegates so riders can Office. “Battlefields and Homefronts: World War I from other institutions of higher learning. better track buses, 10 and Modern Life” and the Taste of Towson get real-time TELLING event at SECU Arena. predictions, view Longtime associate professor of sociology, ABOUT anthropology and criminal justice, Victor B. routes and access SELLING | other services from Fisher, served as the inaugural ceremony’s phones, tablets Sarah Magnotta, grand marshal. The ceremony included and computers. assistant professor musical performances by the university’s STELLAR of marketing, Symphonic Band, Chorale, and Marching towson.edu 2 VISIT received the AMA Band Drum Line. /parking Sales SIG Doctoral NORTHERN A variety of special guests, including STATS Dissertation Award U.S. Sen. Benjamin L. Cardin, University EXPOSURE | 7 for her dissertation, System of Maryland (USM) Board of Contesting The UNITING US A CLINICAL which examines Regents Chair James T. Brady, Board of Arctic: Rethinking why multi-line Andrew Solomon lectured INNOVATOR | Visitors Chair Francis S. Soistman and SGA Politics In The salespeople may President Taylor James, delivered remarks. on, “How Differences Unite Charlotte Exner, Us,” Sept. 13 as part of a Circumpolar North recommend Afterward Brady and USM Chancellor is the new book director of TU’s particular products weeklong series of inaugural Robert Caret performed the formal events. Solomon is an author, by Jeremy Tasch, Hussman Center to their customers. investiture. lecturer and an activist in associate professor for Adults with Au- The award is spon- tism, won the 2016 LGBT rights and mental of geography and sored by the Steve health. He dedicates his life Patricia Buehler environmental Stagner Sales Ex- to reaching out to the world planning. 5 Legacy Award for cellence Institute with love and compassion GIVE THEM Clinical Innovation at the University of and encouraging people to from the Univer- Houston. look outside of themselves. 3 CREDIT | The sity of Southern TU Police Depart- ’s Chan AMERICA’S ment is the first DRUG Division of Occu- from a four-year pational Science & PROBLEM | institution in Mary- Occupational Ther- Tom Carr, the exec- land to receive ac- apy in February. “It’s showing that utive director of the creditation by the Baltimore-Wash- International Asso- the place where ington High Intensi- ciation of Campus 8 ty Drug Trafficking Law Enforcement SOCIAL they lived honors Area, discussed Agencies. The IMPACT the drug crisis review process AWARD | 11 them.” and its “Persistent also took into Jonathan Lazar, Threat to Homeland account the police B’MORE’S TU professor of Security” as part of department’s ac- BEST | WTMD- Tracy Miller ’93, manager of computer science, the Edward V. Bado- creditation by the FM 89.7, TU’s TU’s Transfer Advising Program, picked up another lato Distinguished Commission on public radio station, regarding a memorial for those accolade for his Speaker Series in the Accreditation was selected by research in unlock- who served and died during Homeland Security. for Law Enforce- Baltimore Maga- ing the internet for Operations Desert Storm, Iraqi ment Agencies, zine’s Readers’ Poll users with disabil- Freedom, and Enduring Freedom which measured as the best radio ities. He received to be built near the courthouse the TUPD against station in Baltimore; the SIGCHI Social in Towson. Her son, U.S. Marine the same high Alex Cortright Impact Award at standards set for was selected as a Corporal Nick Ziolkowski, will be the Computer- municipal, state runner-up for the among the 26 men and women Human Interaction and campus police “Radio Show Host” remembered. conference. departments. category. 6 The Sun / May, 2016 7 LAX TEAMS CAPTURE PLAY BALL policelli drafted by the CAA CHAMPIONSHIPS detroit tigers

Brady Policelli will trade one tiger uniform for another. The TU junior SPORT was drafted as a catcher by the Detroit Tigers in the 13th round of Major League ’s 2016 SHORTS First-Year Player Draft in June. Policelli finished his junior year by hitting a CAA-best .375 with 14 doubles, four triples, nine home runs and 45 RBIs. He also drew 45 walks and was 22-for-25 in stolen bases. Over his three-year career, Policelli hit .302 with 32 doubles, eight triples, 21 home runs and 97 RBIs. He also scored 105 runs and drew 89 walks. His postseason honors include First-Team All-CAA, the Rawlings/ ABCA All-Region Second Team and Second-Team All-ECAC honors.

6.89 WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS 4.0 men’s and women’s lacrosse teams rule the caa 10+ SIMPLY THE The men’s lacrosse team set a school record The women’s lacrosse team had its own BEST | Redshirt IT DOESN’T with 16 wins and won the CAA Tournament storybook season, capturing the CAA cham- senior goalkeeper for the third time in the last four years—the pionship for the seventh time, with a 14-6 GET ANY SLUGGERS | Tyler White ranked most CAA crowns for a single program. win over . It was BETTER | Four 32 Four softball first in the country The team also ranked first in two national their fourth CAA title in the last five years Tiger swimmers, players hit at least with a goals-against- statistical categories: scoring defense (7.26 under Head Coach Sonia LaMonica. Sean Patterson, 10 home runs last average of 6.89. goals allowed per game) and turnovers per Senior midfielder Breanna Hamm, an Olivia Evans, Emily THE STEALER season (Shelby Stra- White reset the game (10.32). Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Rezac and Hannah cher – 15, Holiday lacrosse program’s | Don’t leave the Kudos goes to Ryan Drenner, the CAA Association (IWLCA) All-Region honoree, 2016 Snyder, earned Cahill – 12, Brook single-season goals- MLB DRAFT bases unattend- Player of the Year, Mike Lowe, the CAA was named the tournament’s Most Out- perfect 4.0 GPAs Miko – 11 and Daria against-average standing Player after posting two goals, ed around Tiger Tournament’s Most Outstanding Player Rd Pick for the spring term. Edwards – 10). Ca- record, besting second baseman and Head Coach Shawn Nadelen, the CAA five ground balls, four caused turnovers 13th 385 What’s more, the hill became the first his 2015 mark of Richie Palacios. He Coach of the Year and a draw control in the championship men’s team tallied Tiger to slug three 7.57. He is the only set the single-sea- Oh, and did we mention that during the game. The Tigers were led this season by a 3.01 GPA for the home runs in goalie in program son record with 32 NCAA tournament, the Tigers knocked out CAA Rookie of the Year Natalie Sulmonte spring term while a single game. All history with a stolen bases, while the defending national champion Universi- (31 goals, five assists and 51 draw controls) the women’s team told the team sent goals-against-aver- also setting a fresh- ty of Denver Pioneers in the first round? along with Hamm and Kaitlyn Montalbano, posted a 3.51 GPA. 70 balls “over the age below 7.00 in man record with another IWLCA All-Region honoree. 8 fence” for a single- a single season. 9 74 hits. season record. BEING (Left) Nursing students treat a “victim” during READY a mass casualty exercise at TU. (Below) A color-coded triage tag classifies a patient’s injuries from minor to life-threatening. TU gets lessons in disaster preparedness

WE ASKED H. Wayne Nelson about the need for universities to conduct annual, large-scale, multi-agency Field Training exercises, such as TU’s Operation STAT.

IS TU PREPARED TO RESPOND TO A MAJOR DISASTER? | The terrorist attacks of 9/11 and, later, Hurricane Katrina, pushed disaster preparedness forward for many who never thought about public emergen- cies. Many organizations, including TU, FACULTY have performed vulnerability analyses; developed or updated their disaster response and continuity of operations plans (COOP); built mutually support- Q & A ive relationships; and conducted coor- dinated disaster management training derived from a national model. I’ve noticed a major uptick in treatment under austere conditions a patient is beyond help and receive nation’s Medical Reserve Corps that H. Wayne Nelson, professor faculty awareness, concern and even should they find themselves on only palliative care. They are marked TU sponsors and I coordinate. New and chair of the Department scholarship about general emergen- the front lines. It also exposes TU as dead so that resources can be spent training partnerships have been of Interprofessional Health cy preparedness and disaster safety students to Incident Command prin- on those with a chance to survive. forged such as Operation STAT and Studies in the College of compared to pre-Katrina days when ciples and functions—a core concept countless others. Full-blown academ- Health Professions, is a retired unawareness or apathy ruled. TU hasn’t for all disaster planners and partic- WHAT HAS EMERGED FROM ic programs—TU’s Integrated Home- colonel in the Maryland Defense flinched, even when the necessary ipants. This helps fill the dearth of land Security Management master’s THESE DRILLS? | Force of the Maryland Military preparation can be disturbing— the TU disaster education in undergraduate program, and Homeland Security and Department. The former Police Department’s enthusiastically nursing that is so frequently noted in Students appreciate the exposure and Disaster Management—have engaged deputy commander of the received (if grim) Civilian Response the literature. the skills acquired in even a short professionals to sharpen their theoret- 10th Medical Regiment served to Active Shooter Events training, for burst of realistic training as opposed ical and practical knowledge. to text-book coverage of the same during Hurricanes Katrina and example,—which is state of the art and WHAT TYPES OF INJURIES DO Irene. He has more than 25 rolled out just before Orlando. material—although, of course, both STUDENTS ASSESS OR TREAT DO THESE DRILLS ALTER years of experience in disaster Disaster readiness is on the student knowledge and practice-honed skills WHAT YOU TEACH? | preparedness, including flying radar as well. It comes up in Health DURING DRILLS? | are needed. 20 U.S. Air Force search and Care Management and Long-Term Care Students are presented with scripted The drills have also revealed the I have introduced basic preparedness rescue missions with the Civil classes where it simply would not have “smart” victims with a range of injuries need to improve ICS (Incident concepts into several classes, includ- Air Patrol. He teaches Health before. and problems. They assess what they Command System) problems—the hi- ing the comparative risks of sheltering Disaster Preparedness at TU. see, classifying patients according erarchy of who is in command during in place or, in my long-term care and the crisis, but we’re not alone in this ethics classes, evacuating frail older WHAT IS THE MAJOR GOAL to START (Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment) color codes. Green is and improvements have been strong. residents. I introduced a lecture on di- OF DISASTER DRILLS? | for the walking wounded—minor Communication issues have been saster preparation, including a quick These drills test the ability and injuries requiring only basic first aid; hugely improved if not eliminated. overview of the National Incident capacity of first and surge responders, Yellow is for patients who can wait a We’ve come a long way since 9/11 Management System in the public and volunteers to respond and operate bit even though they have more com- when untrained volunteers or health- health component when I taught U.S. together as a team, while identifying plex injuries—broken arm, internal care professionals without credential Health Systems, and address patients’ what needs to be improved. injuries—but still need to be watched vetting (Yes, fake doctors and nurses, legal rights in disaster evacuation case TU’s OPSTAT educational goal is to for indications of deterioration. Red etc. have reported for duty.) or those studies in my long-term care ethics expose nursing students and other means patients are at risk of death without adequate mental preparation course. Other faculty involved in the healthcare students to a simulated within an hour, roughly. These are the became part of the problem or even exercise have done the same and have mass casualty event, giving them first priority for immediate treatment casualties. Since then opportuni- produced valuable scholarship on the some basic “comfort” with triage and or transportation. Black indicates that ties have blossomed to include the subject. n 10 11 RUSHING TO THE

PROS Ryan Delair, Tye Smith,

Five Former Tigers Make the NFL

hen the 2016 NFL season West was selected by the Cleveland Browns kicked off this season, Towson in the third round of the 2014 NFL Draft. After University had four former one year in Cleveland, West was traded to the W members of its football team Tennessee Titans in 2015. He ultimately ended suiting up. Three of the four players played up on the practice squad, under current head coach ’93. before joining the active roster for the final The veteran of the group is offensive six games of the season. He was listed as the lineman ’07, who is in his backup running back on the team’s Week One first season with the Miami Dolphins. Running depth chart. back is in his second season with Delaire was signed as an undrafted rookie by the Baltimore Ravens, Ryan Delaire ’14 is back the in 2015. After being Jermon Bushrod, Miami Dolphins with the Carolina Panthers and Jordan one of the final cuts by the Bucs, Delaire would Dangerfield is in his first year on the active spend time on the practice squads with the roster with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Washington Redskins and Carolina Panthers. In addition, cornerback Tye Smith ’16 has Delaire got some payback against the Bucs been signed to the Seattle Seahawks practice as he had a memorable NFL debut, registering squad. five tackles and 2.5 sacks in the victory. He is Bushrod was drafted by the New Orleans listed as the number three right defensive end Saints in the fourth round of the 2007 on the depth chart. NFL Draft. He played for the Saints for six Dangerfield made his first NFL roster after years, winning Super Bowl XLIV. He was spending the previous two seasons on the selected to the Pro Bowl following the 2011 and Steelers practice squad. He originally signed as 2012 seasons. an undrafted rookie with the Buffalo Bills. He Bushrod signed as a free agent with the is listed third on the depth chart at both strong Chicago Bears following the 2012 season, safety and free safety. n playing three years with the Bears. He signed as a free agent with the Miami Dolphins on March Story courtesy of Athletic Media Relations 10 and was listed as the starting right guard for the Dolphins in the season opener.

Jordan Dangerfield, Pittsburgh Steelers

Photo: Shawn Hubbard of the Baltimore Ravens Terrance West, Baltimore Ravens 12 13 Mark Talbert’s grant writing helped secure funds for a stream project in Gwynns Falls OVER THE LAST THREE Forest where children can catch crayfish and learn about water quality. YEARS, THE CLASSES HAVE RAISED MORE THAN $140,000 FOR COMMUNITY ADVOCACY PROJECTS.

thought were super valuable: finding funders POWERED BY that would be interested in your project, and writing a proposal using the Association of Baltimore Area Grantmakers Common Grant Application format,” he says. The project gave Talbert the skills he need- ed to aid him in his current role as grants and restricted fund manager at the Parks & People THE PEN Foundation. He spends about 25 percent of his time finding funders, 50 percent writing and submitting proposals, and 25 percent TU’s nonprofit writing course teaches managing contracts and writing letters after receiving a grant. “The class really helped students to write grants and empower prepare me,” he says. So far, he’s written about 50 proposals. communities Grantwriting students have also enhanced the social media presence of their community partners. They’ve created Twitter accounts, BY JANAE GRIFFIN ’09 f the thought of writing grants sounds Over the last three years, the classes have hashtags, and have launched crowdfunding about as riveting as standing in an airport raised more than $140,000 for community PHOTOS BY KANJI TAKENO campaigns that raised money for women security line, you’ve never enrolled in one advocacy projects. Beneficiaries include seeking asylum in the United States. of Zosha Stuckey’s classes. Friends of Patapsco State Valley Park, Higher Nia Nyemweya and Rosemary Meister, IHer classes change lives—for the students Achievement, Asylee Women’s Enterprise, who took the class in spring 2015, launched who string the words together and for the TU’s Center for Student Diversity and Dan a successful GoFundMe campaign that organizations they champion. Keplinger ’98/’07 MFA aka King Gimp, the raised $800 for Asylee Women’s Enterprise Stuckey, an assistant professor, teaches subject of an Academy Award-winning (AWE), a nonprofit in Towson. The campaign, a nonprofit grant-writing course for TU’s documentary. Through grant writing and “#AWE365,” gained popularity on the internet Professional Writing program in the Graduate teamwork, Stuckey’s class teaches Towson and helped bring awareness to the needs of School. She understands the power of words graduate and undergraduate students how refugee women who endure the yearlong and teaches students to wield them to make to effectively communicate the needs of an process it takes to transition to living in the a difference. organization to receive grant funding from United States. “As part of the larger Baltimore community, foundations and government agencies. “The funds raised by the #AWE365 Cam- our lives become more meaningful when we A firm believer in students making their paign were used for our Asylee Fund to help feel connected and engaged to its livelihood,” own connections outside of her course, cover the cost of food, medication, education Stuckey says. Stuckey facilitates team-building and self- and legal expenses for the women asylum Her classes help students gain practical reflection exercises to enlighten students seekers,” says Molly Corbett, AWE executive wisdom, not only in writing grants but also in about how their goals and interests can director. “Nia and Rosemary submitted advocating for small, community nonprofits contribute to underprivileged communities. one grant for AWE but were able to use the Zosha Stuckey teaches in Towson and Baltimore City. By forming “Everyone seems to want to make room in Common Grant Application, so we were able students to write words that relationships with outside organizations (also their lives for doing good,” says Stuckey. to use the application as a template for future make a difference. called “community partners”), her students “The work we did in Dr. Stuckey’s class grants.” use class time to secure funds for their orga- was realistic and covered the basics of grant Many of Stuckey’s students applaud the nization’s social change initiatives. writing,” says Mark Talbert ’15 M.S. Talbert course because it gave them the courage to “We look at the social situations of folks and other students wrote grants for Friends of explore careers in activism that they may [who] are served by nonprofit organizations Druid Hill Park, an organization that works to have never considered before. It also helped and try to understand how our professional reinvigorate Druid Hill Park as a recreational, them gain lasting friendships and find lives—and our writing lives—fit into the cultural, and educational institution. “There corporate partnerships. n picture,” Stuckey says. were two assignments in particular that I Janae Griffin ’09, a former intern in the nonprofit writing program, is pursuing her master’s in professional writing at TU.

14 15 HEARING EYES

BY JAN LUCAS illy Conley grew up hating Willy Conley now says of his mainstreamed PHOTOS BY KANJI TAKENO theater. K-12 years, “I don’t know how I got by. There That’s a jaw-dropping were so many gaps in my educational and revelation from an award- social upbringing.” Wwinning playwright, actor, director, scholar, Decades later he’d create a performance teacher, poet and—most recently—novelist. piece at TU about how he’d once misunder- But for a deaf kid in 1960s Baltimore, plays stood the Pledge of Allegiance, an experience were just another exercise in exasperation. professor emerita Juanita Rockwell remem- Willy Conley ’98 MFA, “One of my earliest memories is seeing bers as “heartbreaking, yet absurdly comical.” an outdoor production of “The Lost Colony” celebrates deaf in North Carolina,” Conley recalls. “My SEEING IS BELIEVING identity and parents and I were so far back in the amphi- Conley’s aversion to theater persisted until theater that the actors were practically he was in college and saw a play he actually culture both on the size of ants. understood: a sign-language production of “Try lip-reading an ant,” he quips. “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” with an and off stage Diagnosed at age 3 as profoundly deaf all-deaf cast. “I was able to see the language in both ears, Conley communicated of theater for the first time, and it moved me,” through pantomime, gestures and lip- he explains. The love of deaf theater led to reading. “The audiologist thought I had love of deaf culture and the formation of his enough residual hearing to take advantage own deaf identity. of hearing aids, which would enable me to While pursuing a bachelor’s degree in attend public school and learn to speak,” biomedical photography at the Rochester he says. (The Conleys were strongly advised Institute of Technology (RIT), Conley made against sending their son to a deaf school.) time for sign-language plays and theater- related literature courses. Willy Conley is a professor of theatre arts at Galludet University. 16 17 “Willy Conley’s novel is rich and gripping, handsomely capturing the deaf aspect of human experience.” Conley is the —David Hays, founding artistic director of the National Theatre of the Deaf most widely produced, living The Deaf Heart, a novel by Willy letters home during the early Conley, chronicles a year in the 1980s. Outgoing, confident, life of Dempsey “Max” McCall, and with a sharp wit, Max brings deaf playwright, a deaf biomedical photography the reader along on his journey resident at a teaching hospital through friendship, dating and with 13 plays in Galveston, . loss—and sheds light on what “Whether deaf or hearing, it means to be deaf. and nearly as I would like readers to absorb “It never ceases to amaze ‘the deaf experience’ from Max’s me how little the general public many awards unique worldview,” Conley says. knows about the various types “I also want them to realize the of deaf people in the world and nominations universal human experience of and their struggles and joys overcoming obstacles and in everyday life,” Conley adds. to his credit. prejudice.” “This book has truly been a Conley tells Max’s story labor of love.” through a series of quirky, irreverent short stories and Source: Gallaudet University Press

The idea of a career in the fine arts hadn’t While working in hospitals—and navigat- program directed by Juanita Rockwell that pleased to find that one of his TU professors, A UNIQUELY DEAF PERSPECTIVE yet entered his mind. ing a sometimes-clueless hearing world— focused on intercultural/interdisciplinary Jay Herzog, knew ASL. “With Juanita’s accep- Still, he remains acutely aware of being an Then, toward the end of his senior year Conley wrote, taught and stayed involved theater. They were into nontraditional theater tance, plus Jay’s knowledge of ASL and deaf outlier—a deaf man determined to enlighten in 1981, a casting director came to RIT’s Na- with deaf theater. He landed a small role forms, particularly visual and nonverbal culture, I felt comfortable and inspired during as well as entertain. tional Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID) at Galveston’s Strand Street Theatre and types of stuff.” my three years at Towson,” he says. “As a deaf playwright, I incorporate the au- to audition deaf talent for a national tour took American Sign Language (ASL) scene Conley was the first deaf student to pursue Both Conley and Rockwell point to produc- thentic viewpoint of a deaf person,” he says. “A of “Children of a Lesser God,” then a wildly study courses and deaf acting classes in Los an MFA in theatre at Towson, says Rockwell, ing Conley’s thesis play, “Falling on Hearing deaf playwright introduces nuances, sign play, successful Broadway play about the love Angeles. now freelancing full-time in retirement. The Eyes: a Museum of Sign /Anguish for People believable deaf and hard-of-hearing charac- affair between a hearing teacher and a young But the theater eventually claimed him. university provided interpreters, as required with Communication Disorders,” as particu- ters, and ASL poetry. And a deaf playwright woman who is deaf. The emergence of automatic cameras and by law. larly memorable. “I was so lucky to have Juan- includes a larger number of deaf characters “I auditioned for a role and got a callback on the digital revolution—along with the reali- “Willy Conley came into our program an ita direct it,” Conley says, “and to have fellow or characters than can easily be performed by Broadway,” Conley says. “But then I gradu- zation that he’d hit a glass ceiling—marked a accomplished performer and playwright, student Eric Beatty as an artistic collaborator/ deaf actors.” ated. When a couple weeks passed without turning point in Conley’s life. “When photog- with a keen interest in experimental work,” actor in developing the play with her.” Most of Conley’s characters are deaf males, any word from them, I accepted a job offer in raphy became a lot easier, everyone became a she recalls. “Our program—with its expansive That year Conley and his collaborators a rarity in plays, film or TV. “Audiences seem Texas.” photographer,” he says matter-of-factly. definition of what theater is and can be—was were invited to bring the play to the National to be more sympathetic/empathetic with deaf Later he heard that the producers had He resigned his job at Cedars-Sinai, en- much friendlier for artists of differing abilities, and Worldwide Deaf Theatre Conference. females as ingenues, victims or so on,” he called NTID to offer him a role. rolled in the National Theatre of the Deaf’s cultures and approaches.” Rockwell says of the conference, “Willy and adds. Conley devoted five years to biomedical summer professional school in Connecticut, Rockwell describes Conley as “an extraor- Eric were wonderful performers, and learning But he’s also quick to point out that his photography, first at the University of Texas and was chosen to join the company follow- dinary gift to the MFA in theatre program about the history of deaf culture was a pro- plays are “consciously and painstakingly Medical Branch in Galveston and later as ing a second season in training. He spent and those of us who got to work with him.” found experience for me.” written with both deaf and hearing audiences senior medical photographer at Cedars-Sinai three years on the road, then studied creative She cites as an example the conference he Since graduating from TU, Conley attained in mind. Medical Center in Beverly Hills. writing and playwriting at , co-produced, Visual Playwrights Retreat, the rank of full professor in Gallaudet’s “I wish hearing playwrights would work as The skills he honed while creating a earning his M.A. degree in 1991. which brought together deaf, hard-of-hearing Theatre Arts Department, where he continues hard to make their plays accessible to deaf photographic record of surgical procedures, and hearing artists to ask themselves how to teach while working on his craft. He is the audiences.” n hospital patients, body parts and autopsies EXPLORING THE VISUAL AT TU they could create theater that begins with the most widely produced, living deaf playwright, may seem too clinical to apply in the theater, visual, rather than theater that adds the visual with 13 plays and nearly as many awards and By the time Conley applied to Towson’s MFA Jan Lucas is associate director of publications but he’s happy to refute that notion. in Theatre Arts program in 1995, he was a as a translated afterthought. nominations to his credit. in University Marketing and Communications. “Photography requires thinking in pictures, member of Gallaudet’s theatre arts faculty “It was a revelatory few days,” the former Conley recently added his first published color, sequences, balance and composition, and a renowned playwright. “I was on tenure director says. novel, The Deaf Heart, to an already dazzling Conley, who is signing “write,” has both deaf focus, and mise-en-scène,” he explains. “That track and needed a terminal degree,” he says. Conley was impressed with Rockwell’s resume. (See box above.) and hearing audiences in mind for his plays. visual aesthetic still informs my work.” “I saw that Towson had a brand-new MFA vision, leadership and teaching. He also was

18 19 NOT IN HER

BACKYARD t’s not as if Curtis Bay needed another BY JAN LUCAS problem. PHOTOS BY KANJI TAKENO The working-class enclave is a scant five miles from Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, Ibut a far cry from its glitz. This is the heart of Baltimore’s industrial waterfront, where residents contend with more than their share of urban ills. In 2010, the city proposed building the Activist Destiny country’s largest trash-burning incinerator on the site of an old chemical plant in the close- Watford helped knit south Baltimore neighborhood. Promot- ed as a clean-energy initiative, the facility stop plans to build would generate electricity from 1.5 million tons of waste that would otherwise have gone an incinerator in to landfills. her neighborhood. Albany-based Energy Answers, the project developer, had clients ready to buy the pow- That victory won er—including Baltimore City Public Schools and other municipal agencies and nonprofits. the TU senior world- State and city officials lauded the Curtis Bay incinerator as a win-win, generating renew- wide acclaim and a able energy as well as badly needed jobs. According to Energy Answers, the Curtis $175,000 Goldman Bay incinerator would consume 4,000 tons of trash per day—household waste as well Environmental Prize. as rubber, vinyl, plastic and metal. Permits allowed it to release as much as 240 pounds of mercury and 1,000 pounds of lead into the air annually in addition to particulate matter and other toxic pollutants. (Studies showed TIME MAGAZINE LISTED Curtis Bay already ranked first or second on nationwide lists of areas releasing toxic air WATFORD AS ONE OF “10 pollutants.) The Maryland Public Service Commission MILLENNIALS WHO ARE approved the project as an energy plant, CHANGING THE WORLD.” skirting state environmental regulations that prohibited building incinerators near schools. Even with the planning and permit phase completed, few in Curtis Bay knew much TU senior Destiny Watford about the project until 2012. Some welcomed and others hope to have the site of a proposed incinerator developed as a solar farm 20 and recycling center. 21 the anticipated jobs; more fretted about the ment’ and presented evidence that it posed a health impacts of another major polluter in serious health threat to Curtis Bay. The com- their midst. Many, feeling helpless, initially missioners got the message. As 2015 drew to a seemed resigned to the inevitable. close, Baltimore City Public Schools and THE GOLDMAN But at Benjamin Franklin High School, a 21 other incinerator customers had cancelled ENVIRONMENTAL nucleus of resistance was taking shape. In their contracts with Energy Answers. classrooms and corridors less than a mile With its market gone, the project stalled. PRIZE from the proposed construction site, stu- That wasn’t enough for Watford and other dents were asking why Curtis Bay was being incinerator foes. “Energy Answers still had its When the Goldman Environmental dumped on again. Among the more outspo- permit,” she says, “so we decided to force the Foundation representative ken was Destiny Watford, a self-described issue.” Along with the Environmental Integri- called Destiny Watford last spring “shy teenager” who’d noted the dispropor- ty Group, Free Your Voice members claimed tionate number of residents suffering from that because construction hadn’t begun, the to tell her she’d won a $175,000 airborne pollution-related illnesses. project’s permit had expired. They gave the prize in an international “It seemed so unfair and unjust,” Watford, Maryland Department of the Environment competition, she thought it now a TU senior, recalls. “We decided to fight 30 days to respond. When the deadline was “some kind of a scam.” because our families live here, our friends. passed without comment, they organized It wasn’t. We go to school here. We love the community.” a rally outside the department’s Baltimore The TU student had been headquarters. chosen to receive a 2016 A FOUR-YEAR FIGHT FOR SURVIVAL Watford, with five other Free Your Voice Goldman Environmental Prize, Watford and a classmate founded Free Your members, entered the building, declared a one of only six recipients world- Voice, a grassroots organization compris- civil action and refused to leave until officials wide and the third-youngest in rescinded the permit. Charges were filed for the history of the award. Established in 1989 by Richard and Rhoda Goldman, When Gary Surosky (right) spied the Goldman Environmental Watford during a photo shoot for Prize recognizes ordinary people this article, he hopped out of his van to thank her for saving the working at the grassroots level. neighborhood. They are often women and men from isolated villages or inner cities who choose to take great personal risks to safeguard the ing 10 students intent on raising awareness arrests, and the protesters spent the night in environment. and mobilizing opposition to the Curtis Bay jail. (Later the charges were expunged.) In March the Maryland Department of the Each year an international jury incinerator project. The group’s research Environment declared Energy Answers’ per- selects recipients from Africa, unearthed the legacy of exploitation and in- mit invalid. What had once been a done deal Asia, Europe, Islands and Island justice that had persisted through generations. “Historically, people in this area have had at last come undone, thanks to Destiny Nations, North America, and been displaced to pave the way for polluting Watford, her fellow activists and the hard- South and Central America. developments like the incinerator,” Watford working citizens of Curtis Bay. They’ve begun In addition to a 10-day tour of explains. “Just because of where they live, pushing to get the proposed incinerator site San Francisco and Washington, they’re more likely to die of lung cancer and developed as D.C., winners of the Goldman respiratory disease, and to suffer from asthma. a solar farm and recycling center. Enviromental Prize take part “Keeping the incinerator out of Curtis Bay In April Watford learned she’d won the in award ceremonies, media was a matter of survival.” prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize interviews, funder briefings, Watford and other Free Your Voice mem- for spearheading the grassroots campaign against the incinerator. (See sidebar.) She’ll and meetings with political bers made the rounds knocking on doors, leave TU in 2017 with a degree in English and and environmental leaders. galvanizing opposition by informing residents, mass communication, and plans to use some The Goldman Prize provides organizing protests and circulating petitions. Students designed websites and of her prize money to continue her work in these grassroots leaders with developed a media campaign to reach a Curtis Bay. international recognition that broader audience. Watford says Free Your Voice—now enhances their credibility, Word spread, and residents began rallying affiliated with United Workers—will turn its worldwide visibility for the to the cause. Franklin High School, which attention to fair development, especially com- issues they champion, and strongly supports community engagement, munity land trusts. “We recognized early on financial support to pursue provided a shuttle bus to shield protesters from in the campaign that it wouldn’t be enough their vision of a renewed and truck traffic during a December 2013 march to to just stop the incinerator,” she emphasizes. protected environment. the incinerator site. Teachers spoke out. “We must change the way that development happens in our city. Curtis Bay isn’t destined Source: Goldman A DONE DEAL COMES UNDONE to be a dumping ground. Together we can Environmental Foundation make it a model for the right path forward.” n In 2014 Free Your Voice members took their case to the Board of School Commissioners, Jan Lucas is associate director of publications where Watford lambasted the proposed in University Marketing and Communications. Gay Pinder, director of media relations, incinerator as an example of “failed develop- contributed to this story. 22

ALUMNI NEWS

I hope you enjoyed your summer vacations and were able to take a break from your busy lives to reflect and recharge. The Alumni Association is also reflecting, going through a process to make it better than ever. OCTOBER 22 We’ve recently been involved in transi- tioning the board from a “working” entity Hey, Tiger fans. Join us for a high- into a more strategically focused board spirited day of food, fun and football that continues to support the goals and at the Alumni Tailgating Festival on mission of the university. To help us with Sat., Oct. 22, before the Tigers take the transition, we have been working on the University of New Hampshire with consultants to review the board Wildcats. structures and best practices of other alumni associations. Tailgating: 11:30 a.m. I want to personally say “Thanks” to all Football game: 3:30 p.m. of you for assisting us. If you completed the alumni survey, you were directly Alumni groups MUST pre-reserve “We will use the involved in this process. We will use the a designated tailgating festival results of the survey and the consultant space through the Office of Alumni results of the reports in our strategic planning session Relations to access one parking this fall to set the foundation of a board space for drop-off in Lot 19 and survey and the that has a more active role in the a tailgating festival space on the university’s direction. Lower Practice Field. consultant reports Remember, you will always be a part of the Towson University alumni network, Tailgating Festival Package in our strategic which has more than 154,000 graduates $200 and continues to grow. We want you to 1 parking permit for Lot 19 planning session.” stay connected to your alma mater, and 1 reserved group space the Alumni Association can help you do (approx. 20’x20’) this. We look forward to hearing about 1 official TU 10’x10’ tent(group your accomplishments and successes. may choose to keep the tent at no additional cost) Lance Johnson ’93 1 6-foot table president, tu alumni association 1 grill with charcoal 5 Homecoming football tickets Complimentary loading and unloading assistance

* No personal grills or fryers permitted * Additional football tickets are $10/ticket when purchasing the BANK ON IT package. secu hosts financial * Tickets are $25 at the door on literacy class game day

TU alumni and students learned Tailgating Festival Reservations To reserve your Alumni Homecoming how to navigate the challenges of Tailgate Festival parking permit financial literacy and fiscal responsi- and space, please call the Office of bility when SECU experts presented Alumni Relations at 410-704-2234. a class in the Minnegan Room on Reservations are first-come, April 21. Discussions included the first-served. facts and fallacies of credit scores

and the impact those scores can

have on loan interest rates, terms, More details: approvals and more. The class www.tutigertracks.com/homecoming aimed to help people make smart For football tickets: financial decisions. 1-855-TU-TIGER (1-855-888-4437) Thomas Slemp ’14, SECU community outreach or visit towsontigers.com specialist, discusses the elements of finances.

23 2 2

TOURNAMENT TIME AT THE WATER’S EDGE 4 Men’s team competes Alumni gather at Ropewalk Tavern in the CAA Championships in Ocean City

The Office of Alumni Relations hosted a Last April, we welcomed alumni and pre-game reception at the Pratt Street Ale friends to the newest Ropewalk Tavern House on March 5 before the Tigers played of Marc McFaul ’95. The Ocean City, Md., the during the CAA restaurant was filled with graduates from Championships in Baltimore. Despite a the Eastern Shore and Delaware. Donna valiant effort, our team lost 71-60. Abbott ’79, director of tourism for Ocean City, presented the Key to the City on behalf of Mayor Rick Meehan to university 1 representatives. 3 3 | 1 Dan Mills, Bev and Dave Glatfelter, and | 1 Susan Jones ’90, Donna Abbott ’79 and 1 Jenna Mills ’09/’16 | 2 Tamra Jackson ’00, Tara Zaiser Miller ’88 | 2 Linda and Amber Christopher Perkins Jr. and Christopher Baines ’14 | 3 Norma Gaunt ’77 and Bill Gaunt Perkins Sr. | 3 Dan Crowley ’01, TU President Kim Schatzel and , former NFL and TU football player | 4 Ryan Meehan ’06, Jamie Bauer and Doug Reaves ’90

ALUMNI EVENTS ALUMNI EVENTS

2 2 REMEMBERING TIGERS FOREVER JOSEPH FERRANTE ’77 Congratulations to the Class of 2016 Tyler Mayes receives memorial lacrosse scholarship On May 2, the Alumni Association hosted | 1 Bryan and Sue Mayes | 2 Lou | 1 congratulates two TU seniors Graduation Station. This one-stop shop The brothers of Alpha Omega Lambda Dollenger ’74, Frank Mezzanotte ’73 | 2 Staff at information stations gave TU established a scholarship 18 years ago for graduates gives our newest alums and Mark Maloney ’80 3 Alpha Omega seniors important information | 3 Each senior to honor their Tiger lacrosse teammate | a chance to discover the benefits and Joseph Ferrante. Tyler Mayes, a TU junior, Lambda brothers and former lacrosse services they receive long after they received a T-shirt with their graduation year. received the award April 23 at a reception players present the 2016 Joseph Ferrante walk off the stage. The service is funded | 4 With caps and gowns in hand, TU seniors in the Auburn Pavilion before the Tigers scholarship to Tyler Mayes. by a grant from Alumni Association are ready for commencement. defeated 18-11. International.

1 3 3 4 1

24 25 2 1

TIGERTOWN DISTINGUISHED ALUMNUS AND IN BIRD LAND 4 DEANS’ RECOGNITION AWARDS TU cheers for the Birds Alumni Association recognizes the 2016 honorees

Towson University Orioles fans celebrated Chancellor Robert L. Caret introduced the 2016 Distinguished the university’s 150th Anniversary with Alumnus, Daniel J. McCarthy ’75/ ’83. a picnic and a baseball game at Camden Established in 1958, this award is the highest honor bestowed Yards on May 5. The O’s treated TU fans by the Alumni Association. to a 1-0 victory over the Yankees.

| 1 Distinguished Alumni Award Daniel J. McCarthy ’75/’83 has devoted much of his career to higher education, 1 3 including being past vice president of the University of Maryland College Park | 1, 2, 3 TU Tigers celebrate the university’s Foundation, executive vice president and president for the TU Foundation as 150th anniversary at an O’s game. | 4 David well as vice president for Institutional Advancement. Vanko, dean of the Fisher College of Science and Mathematics, and his wife Carol. 2016 AWARD RECIPIENTS

2 3 The Deans’ Recognition Awards honor alumni from each college for their personal and professional accomplishments.

ALUMNI EVENTS | 2 College of Business and Economics Samuel R. Polakoff ’86 is the president, CEO and 2 third-generation owner of Nexterus, a supply chain LAND OF engineering and technology firm. OPPORTUNITY | 3 College of Education Glenda Kilgore Johnson ’64 spent 40 years in education TU Field Station flourishes with as a teacher or administrator in Carroll and Baltimore 5 teaching, student research and | 1 Suzanne and Al Henneman ’66, the 4 community engagement County public schools, and later a faculty member owner of Camp Running Bear and Camp at Loyola College and TU. Dancing Bear | 2 Fly-fishing Instructor | 4 College of Fine Arts and Communication Outdoor learning and family fun marked Micah Danmeyer teaches guests about the celebrations May 7 at the TU Field Mike Flanagan ’02, a former television editor and fishing techniques. | 3 Goat enjoys being Station. Events included a petting zoo, producer for Discovery and ESPN, now produces petted by Towson Tigers | 4 Future tigers pony rides, fly-fishing lessons, hikes and feature films including “Occulus” and “Ouija 2.” presentations by TU professor Alex Storrs enjoy a nature hike. | 5 College of Health Professions in a portable planetarium. The Monkton, Jean M. Seifarth, Ph.D., R.N. ’76, a nurse and clinical Md., property, a research site for TU faculty instructor, is education and project management and students, is preserved in partnership 3 4 with Al Henneman ’66, and the Office of coordinator for Western Maryland Health System. Alumni Relations, and directed by the | 6 College of Liberal Arts Fisher College of Science and Mathematics. Jason Goldsmith ’97 is co-founder, chairman and CEO of CARCHEX, which provides consumers with vehicle 1 7 protection products and services. 6 | 7 Fisher College of Science and Mathematics Richard E. Burdette III ’96, U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major, served in Afghanistan and has held multiple leadership posts and received numerous awards and decorations, including the Bronze Star and Defense Meritorious Service Medal.

26 2

BREW AT THE ZOO 4 It happened at the zoo

Tigers dominated the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore on Memorial Day Weekend. Almost 200 alumni and friends gathered for Brew at the Zoo, enjoying craft brewery tastings, music and a day with the animals.

1 3 | 1 Doc with Lauren Siford and Mike Pivec ’14 | 2 Brian Young, Doc and Ariel Eldredge ’12 | 3 An Eastern screech owl | 4 Marc Fink, Doc and Jessica Brown ’14

ALUMNI EVENTS

GOLDEN TIGERS Class of 1966 celebrates its 50th Reunion

Graduates from the Class of 1966 returned to campus on June 4 for a bus tour high- lighting the changes to campus since their graduation. After the tour, Felicity Knox ’94, library associate, displayed some rare memorabilia, including the 1966 telephone book.

28 PB PHILANTHROPY

Now that I have officially retired as vice president of University Advancement, I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your philanthropic support of Towson University. Your investment and commitment to the future of this remark- HONORING A FALLEN HERO able institution is deeply appreciated and the wardell turner football vital in our ability to offer an enriching scholarship supports a tu player and enhancing university experience for our students. With your support, Towson Sgt. Maj. Wardell B. Turner ’89 University has raised nearly $100 million learned discipline and sacrifice on during my 15-year tenure and has grown the TU football field. He put its endowment to $55 million. These it into practice serving dollars are the lifeblood of the institution where limited state support provides in the U.S. Army for only a portion of the financial resourc- 21 years, earning es needed. Every gift, no matter a Bronze Star, a the size, is critical in achieving our Purple Heart and academic goals and providing an Sgt. Maj. Turner ’89 three Meritorious “With your environment where students can earned a Bronze Star, Service Medals flourish and grow. Each gift ensures a Purple Heart across multiple the strength of the region and its and three other support, Towson service medals. deployments to future. At Towson University, 80 Bosnia and Iraq. percent of our graduates remain in the University has But in fall 2014, he area. This institution is a major player in was killed in action in raised nearly $100 producing the human capital necessary to be at the cutting edge, whether it be in Kabul, Afghanistan, while million during science and technology, the arts, health serving as an adviser on a NATO professions, education or business. mission to train Afghan troops. my 15-year tenure In the development field, one of the It was a devastating loss, but his key factors ensuring a high philanthropic memory provides an opportunity and has grown profile is the support of alumni and friends for a current Tiger football player who consistently demonstrate loyalty and to follow in his footsteps as a leader continued connection to the institution. its endowment and a representative of TU. So many of you have shown that level Former teammate, Jay Wasser- to $55 million.” of commitment, best exemplified in our 150th anniversary year and the largest man ’87, led an effort in the fall increase in alumni giving participation of 2015 to establish the Wardell from the previous year. I am thankful for Turner Football Scholarship this support and for the relationships that Endowment. To date, over $50,000 have developed between so many of you has been contributed to the and myself. I am grateful that I had the scholarship fund that provides opportunity to share in your personal joy financial support to a deserving in making a difference as a result of your student-athlete. largesse. And I am grateful for the sense Sophomore and Towson defen- of pride and appreciation of our students sive back Monty Fenner was as they thank the donors who have gener- ously made it possible for them to attend awarded the inaugural scholarship Towson University. at the team’s annual banquet last On a personal note, I feel fortunate to spring. Fenner received the award have served this institution and to have from Head Coach Rob Ambrose ’93, played a small part in ensuring its future Katherine Turner, Sgt. Maj. Turner’s and its vitality. Thank you so much for that widow, and Turner’s youngest opportunity. It was not taken for granted. son, Xavier. I only wish TU the best in the years ahead and am confident that its promise To support the Wardell Turner will be fulfilled as it continues to maintain Football Scholarship Endowment, a robust and enthusiastic level of support visit towson.edu/givetowardell from its alumni and friends. turnerscholarship or call the Devel- opment Office at 1-866-301-3375. Gary Rubin ’69 former vice president of university advancement 29 TU Alumni Donors No. of alumni of record THE WRITE WAY No. of alumni donors 140,000 6,625 7,000 tv writer and novelist robert ward ’65 endows creative writing scholarship 5,890 and bequeaths manuscripts and screenplays to the library 120,000 5,625 6,000 IAN 4,940 5,020 5,224 4,815 4,852 4,770 4,851 4,836 100,000 4,741 4,675 4,578 5,000 BELKNAP ’06 4,351 4,408 4,331 3,922 “I’ve had an amazing sity of Arkansas Writer’s program, moved 80,000 4,000 career,” Ward admits, to San Francisco, where he was sidetracked artistic director of crediting TU with giving by 1960s distractions, returned to Baltimore, 60,000 3,000 The Acting Company, identified TU as a him the building blocks witnessed the 1968 riots, and wrote a novel, 40,000 2,000 to pursue his craft. Shedding Skin. Published in 1972, the regional anchor for this touring model. “When I got to Towson semi-autobiographical account of living 20,000 1,000 I had three teachers who on the wild side received rave reviews from 0 0 told me I had talent as the New York Times and Publishers Weekly. FY99 FY00 FY01 FY02 FY03 FY04 FY05 FY06 FY07 FY08 FY09 FY10 FY1 1 FY12 FY13 FY14 FY15 FY16 a writer if I would just Later his career flourished with writing work harder: Frank Guess, assignments for notable magazines such ENRICHED BY THE Donald Craver and Ray- as Rolling Stone, GQ and Esquire. In 1978, GOING UP mond Franke,” Ward says. Ward published Cattle Annie and Little ACTING COMPANY “They insisted I learn how Britches, a novel made into a film starring alumni giving increases residency program to shape an essay, back Burt Lancaster and . Ward concludes with two plays up what I had to say with wrote the screenplay. Towson University alumni have accom- lifelong supporters, this campaign focuses research and be tough When he began writing scripts for TV’s plished something impressive—they have more on the importance of giving than on Since 2014, Towson University’s minded. They believed “Hill Street Blues,” he worried about being made a dramatically stronger show of dollars donated. Department of Theatre Arts has in me. fired. financial support for their alma mater. It’s working. To date, 70 percent of participated in a new, three- Over the past two years, more alumni student participants in the Gold and Black “My idea for the gradu- He wasn’t. Within three years, he graduated year touring residency program ate scholarship is to kick from story editor to co-executive producer— have responded to TU’s need for support Giving Back campaign have continued to offered by The Acting Company, start a student’s talent. It’s a meteoric ascension in Hollywood. than ever before. Aiding this increase is give as alumni. Those new graduates are America’s leading national touring Robert Ward ’65 is a man of many words. a way of saying ‘You have the goods. Your He later worked on other shows, includ- TU’s new, interactive website: towson.edu/ among the more than 6,600 alumni who He has penned award-winning novels, school believes in you. Now get to work ing “New York Undercover” and “NYPD giving. This searchable website gives users donated to TU last year, an increase of 1,700 repertory theater. Now in its final scripts for hit TV shows—“Miami Vice” and and create terrific original writing.’ Having Blue.” instant access to all 600+ funds maintained from the previous year. “That’s the highest residency year, the program will “Hill Street Blues”—and magazine profiles of people believe in you is everything to a Ward has acted in four films, one of which, by the Towson University Foundation. year-to-year increase in the past 18 years,” culminate with March productions some of the biggest names in entertainment young writer.” “The Bronx Is Burning,” a miniseries about Alumni can quickly and easily support a says Shaff. of Marcus Gardley’s new play and sports, including Clint Eastwood and “Robert Ward is enriching the context for the New York Yankees, aired on ESPN in fund or scholarship that’s most meaningful Overall, this support improves TU’s about the assassination of Reggie Jackson. writing at Towson with both the scholarship 2007. That film will also be included in the to them. alumni philanthropic participation rate to Malcolm X and Shakespeare’s Now the novelist and television writ- and the donation of his manuscripts for stu- Cook Library collection. “More and more alumni are giving back just above 5 percent, which, according to “Julius Caesar.” er-producer has created the Robert Ward to their major, athletics and campus life by Shaff, is close to the 6 percent average for dents and scholars to examine,” says Terry His third book, Red Baker, turned down Ian Belknap ’06, artistic director Endowed Scholarship in Creative Writing Cooney, dean of the College of Liberal Arts. by 30 publishers, won the 1985 Pen West supporting funds such as Leadershape, the universities of TU’s size. of The Acting Company, identified for TU graduate students with a $30,000 Ward followed a circuitous path to Award. Black Student Leadership Conference and Every donation to Towson University TU as a regional anchor for this gift. He has also pledged to bequeath his success. After graduating from TU with a Ward recently returned from Italy where the Food Insecurity Support Fund, which makes a difference. Last year, more than manuscripts and screenplays to the Albert S. degree in English, he was a social worker in he was on a reading tour of Red Baker, gives students in need an opportunity to $300,000 came in donations of $25 or less. touring model, which supports Cook Library. Baltimore, won a scholarship to the Univer- which is popular among Italian youth. discreetly receive a meal at a campus dining Publications, such as U.S. News & World the artistic collaboration of students, hall,” says Brittany Shaff, director of the Report, rank universities based on alumni faculty and theatre practitioners. Annual Campaign. giving participation. State lawmakers also Throughout the residency TU’s student philanthropy campaign, consider participation rates when allocating program, the Department of Gold and Black Giving Back, has also public institution funding. With an enroll- Theatre Arts has raised over helped increase alumni giving. Created ment of more than 22,000 students and a $14,000 from alumni, friends and OVERCOMING OBSTACLES AND ACHIEVING DREAMS in 2014 and led by and for students, the state model that gives TU less funding per community partnerships to help donors and students meet at foundation scholars luncheon campaign educates students on the impor- student than any other University System of tance of philanthropy at TU. Because early Maryland institution, TU’s need for alumni support workshops, guest lectures and professional development At the 2016 Foundation Scholars the importance of financial assis- philanthropists are more likely to become philanthropic support is greater than ever opportunities for TU students. Luncheon on April 22, more than tance. It gave him the opportunity before. 130 students met the benefactors of to participate in extracurricular “This professional partnership their scholarships and shared their activities because he did not has already enriched the edu- heartfelt messages of gratitude. need a part-time job. cation of theatre students and Chad M. Gobel ’93, the keynote “Sometimes we forget the | PAWS FOR THANKS | enhanced the national reputation speaker and donor to the Marion B. transformational impact that of our university in the arts and Hoffman Ethical Leadership Award, philanthropy can have,” he says. arts education,” says Robyn Quick, In April Towson Tigers took a moment to “paws” reflected on his gratitude—to his Student speakers Aysha Ameen, chair of theatre arts. “With the and show their gratitude to the 15,000 donors family, to his parents, who financed recipient of the Michele M. performances of “Julius Caesar” his college education, and espe- Cooper, M.D., Scholarship, Jillian who supported TU last year. and “X,” we look forward to cially to the late Marion Hoffman, Eisdorfer ’16, recipient of the “Paws for Thanks educates students about giving expanding learning opportunities former TU dean of student affairs, Ira and Mary Basler Scholarship, Student speakers Min Park ’17, Jillian Eisdorfer ’16 back and demonstrates how private support and Aysha Ameen ’19 who transformed his life. and Min Park, recipient of the influences the quality of their education,” says across our campus and into the Gobel, a member of the SGA, Charlotte W. Newcombe Endowed Brittany Shaff, director of the Annual Campaign. community.” would visit her office, discussing Scholarship for Mature Women A thank-you banner quickly filled with messages of appreciation, and hand-signed thank-you cards To support the Department of life, Towson, and his hopes and and Men, expressed their grati- For event videos towson.edu/ were packed up to be mailed to donors. Around Theatre Arts, visit towson.edu/ dreams for the future. He supports tude to donors for helping them and photos from VISIT campus, oversized gift tags marked facilities and givetotheatrearts or call the Devel- the scholarship honoring her overcome obstacles to pursue an the 2016 luncheon ScholarsLuncheon memory because he understands education. resources made possible by generous donors. opment Office at 1-866-301-3375. “The gift tags are a visual reminder of the support we receive from donors,” Shaff explains. 30 31 LINDSAY WAITE ’71/’96/’04 cycled throughout the United States to support nonprofits that reduce crime and aid crime victims. ALUMNI CLASS NOTES IN MEMORIAM PROFILE

Maureen ALUMNI Mary Foreman Jamison ’62 Berry ’97 Gladys Quatman May 17, 2016 Porter ’33 July 17, 2016 Mary R. Wooten ’62 March 10, 2016 Bernice Parker Murphy ’34 Mary C. Van De June 14, 2016 Weghe ’63 June 9, 2016 Mary McClean Mulquin ’38 Barry S. Losinsky ’64 1960 MARTY DELANEY ’73 was inducted into July 28, 2016 May 25, 2016 the Greater Baltimore Chapter of the U.S. Margaret Kiser Lacrosse Hall of Fame. “I have always been Doris Kehm Hay ’42 EDWARD CALLARY ’61 had his fifth book, June 23, 2016 Myers ’64 Wisconsin Place Names, published by the proud to be a Tiger,” he writes. April 27, 2016 University of Wisconsin Press. He is profes- Frances Shores CAROL JEAN FENCHAK ’78 ART cele- Meginnis ’42 Peggy Wilson sor emeritus of linguistics at Northern Illinois Ratsch ’65 University and lives in Austin, Texas, with his brated her 13th year as an art and photog- July 7, 2016 raphy teacher at Burns Junior/Senior High March 18, 2016 wife, daughter and grandchildren. Lillian Scheinker School in Burns, Wyoming. Appointed the Wilen ’43 Richard E. NANCY S. GRASMICK ’61 EDEL is an in- junior class faculty adviser for the 2016-2017 April 8, 2016 Menikheim ’66 augural inductee in The Sun’s Baltimore Busi- school year, she is responsible for overseeing June 7, 2016 ness and Civic Hall of Fame. Grasmick served the junior prom. Harvey C. Refo Jr. ’44 EDWARD July 12, 2016 Robert Edward on TU’s Board of Visitors for more than a Talbott ’66 CALLARY ’61 a Tiger decade and was named the TU Presidential SUSAN HILL GEBHARDT ’78, Doris Gutman February 12, 2016 Scholar for Innovation in Teacher and Leader swimmer and field hockey player, who was Kummerlowe ’46 Gwendolyn L. published his fifth Preparation in 2012. inducted into the TU Athletic Hall of Fame Aug. 4, 2016 in 1994, competed in the World Triathlon Gibson ’67 May 21, 2016 book, Wisconsin Championships in Cozumel, Mexico, as a Eva M. Wolf ’46 JOSEPH LEE BOYLE ’68 published his July 15, 2016 Place Names. 25th genealogy book, Much given to Liquor, member of Team USA in September. “I Sharon L. Hopkins ’67 and chewing Tobacco. White Pennsylvania believe that my successful experience on the Elmer L. Zick ’48 March 20, 2016 Towson swim team under the coaching of April 24, 2016 THE RIGHT STEPS Runaways, 1763-1768. Boyle “has combed Sharon J. Ray Riordan and George Kropp back in the scores of 18th-century newspapers for Irene Goldstein Victorine ’69 TEELIN IRISH DANCE SCHOOL GARNERS AWARDS GERARD J. references to missing servants,” according to late ‘70s had a direct impact on me getting Ellin ’50 Jan. 1, 2016 GAENG ’81 Genealogical.com. His other works include to this point at 60 years old!” she writes. May 3, 2016 “I want to thank the professors at Towson Catherine M. Maureen Berry ’97 began her dancing from Towson so I am very knowledgeable three books on Maryland’s runaway servants Arnold ’70 University and my coaches for instilling in Albert H. career not with a bang, but with a click and about anatomy. I really have a gift for get- and one on Delaware’s as well as a number Naeny Jr. ’50 April 19, 2016 received the me the values of hard work, commitment, a clack—a resounding click and clack. ting dancers to understand their bodies.” of other volumes on deserters in the Ameri- June 28, 2016 2016 Leadership can Revolution, and the New Hampshire and teamwork and dedication.” James A. Gabor ’70 “Irish dancing is very loud, so after I Berry’s efforts paid off in the spring, in Law Award Rhode Island regiments at Valley Forge. Shirley D. Feb. 17, 2016 opened my first studio, they evicted us when one of her students won a world Zimmerman ’52 because we were too noisy,” recalls the championship title in Scotland. from The Daily 1980 March 26, 2016 Helen M. Waesche ’70 Record. 1970 July 18, 2016 dance performance graduate. “We had to “Getting my first world champion is, as GERARD J. GAENG ’81 PHIL received the Janet Wright start over a few times to figure out a way a teacher, the highest reward I can ever 2016 Leadership in Law Award from The Champness ’54 James E. Woods ’70 ROBERT J. KREBS JR. ’70 was one of the May 23, 2016 to soundproof.” receive,” she says. Daily Record. Gaeng is head of the litigation April 16, 2016 Vietnam veterans interviewed by Maryland Now, Berry has found success through Her achievements don’t stop there. The PATRICK Public Television for a three-part documen- group at Rosenberg Martin Greenberg, LLP. Richard D. Neidig ’71 Doris Exline the Teelin School of Irish Dance and the Howard County Arts Council honored Ber- SMITH ’09 tary, “Maryland Vietnam War Stories.” He He is also president emeritus of the Towson Kesecker ’54 July 24, 2016 Teelin Irish Dance Company in Columbia, ry with the 2015 Outstanding Artist award was “in country” from Jan. 1972 to Feb. 1973. Alumni Association. June 29, 2016 Ida R. James ’71 Maryland, where she has served as owner for her work with Teelin. In 2009, she re- He writes, “I was there when the Paris peace Hallie G. Odgers ’54 June 13, 2016 photographer for JOHN BOHANAN ’81 received an honorary ceived the Maryland State Arts Council treaty was signed and I left 10 days after the May 18, 2016 and director for 18 years. Getty Images, won a signing.” Doctorate of Human Letters from St. Mary’s Richard D. Neidig ’71 Though she has trained in an array of Individual Artist Award for Dance Chore- first place award from College of Maryland, an award that recog- Barbara A. July 24, 2016 styles, Berry’s interest in Irish dance stems ography. JAY RHODES ’71 BUAD was elected to nizes his service to the country and the state Chapple ’55 The White House Margaret L. Mason ’71 from her heritage. Her parents are from Though she’s been garnering awards, the city council in Kings Mountain, North of Maryland. A senior consultant at Corner- Aug. 11, 2016 News Photographers Oct. 2, 2015 Ireland and she has visited the country 21 Berry says the highlight of her career oc- Carolina. He retired after 11 years as a head stone Government Affairs, a lobbying firm in Patricia E. Murray ’55 times. curred right at Towson University. Association. basketball coach at Limestone College in Annapolis, Bohanan was named one of “The July 13, 2016 Charles E. Gaffney, South Carolina. He also worked in Top 20 Most Influential Maryland Legislators” Sunderland ’73 She co-owns Teelin with one of her sis- “We actually brought our show to Tow- by the Maryland Gazette of Business and Nancy Murphy April 29, 2016 ters, while the other serves as event coor- son in 2007 and we sold out,” Berry recalls. banking and financial services. Rhodes has Walker ’56 Politics in 2010. “It was a big honor to come back to Ste- been married 43 years and has two sons and June 21, 2016 Carmen C. dinator. Irish culture “stays in the family,” three grandchildren. Fernandez ’74 she says. phens Hall Theatre and work with some of BEN FOWKE ’82 ACCT was appointed as Joan Walter May 29, 2016 Berry also performs in, produces and the people in the Department of Dance.” cycled in the a member of the National Infrastructure McGuire ’57 LINDSAY WAITE ’71/’96/’04 choreographs feature-length stage shows Berry credits her professors for not only U.S. Southwest and Southeast, then up the Advisory Council by President Obama. March 28, 2016 Ron E. Head ’74 July 16, 2016 for the company and teaches at the school, instilling good technique, but also the abil- coast to Baltimore to support nonprofits that Fowke has served as chairman, president Mary Ann Vetter ’59 which hosts over 270 students. ity to dance “with heart.” reduce crime, prevent future crime victims and CEO of Xcel Energy since 2011. March 13, 2016 Hope Wiley and save tax money. Waite grew up in the McFadden ’74 “When I’m teaching, I’m very hands-on,” “This is more than a job,” Berry says. “It’s Baltimore area and practiced law until 2004. JAMES WARRING ’83 BUAD joined the Trudy Forsythe Dec. 6, 2015 Berry explains. “I have a great education definitely a lifestyle and passion.” n Cox ’60 She started the trip in Albuquerque, where board of directors at Olney Theatre Center, Maryland’s longest-running regional produc- June 14, 2016 Martharine A. she has lived since 2014. Scott ’74 —DARYL LEE HALE ’16 ing theater. Warring is founder and CEO of Jacquelynne H. July 6, 2016 Gano ’62 April 6, 2016 Michael C. Weaver ’74 Feb. 12, 2016 32 33 IN MEMORIAM ALUMNI Oak Crest, a retirement community, as Mark L. Howard ’75 Joyce Mach-Geils ’95 and The Public Speaking Playbook (2nd philanthropy manager. Schiano has more June 16, 2016 July 11, 2016 PROFILE Edition). PETER O. than 18 years of fundraising experience. Terry L. LaPorte ’75 Jane A. Watts ’95 NWOSU ’87 April 16, 2016 May 9, 2016 ELLIS CARR ’99 ACCT was named presi- vice president TEQUILA TERRY ’94 SOCY, dent and CEO of Capital Impact Partners in of policy implementation for DentaQuest, Kaya Michael D. Byers ’76 Amy C. Nemec ’97 May. Carr previously served as CFO of the is provost and was selected for the 2016-17 Disparities March 6, 2016 May 16, 2016 Savas ’09 organization, which works to transform un- vice president for Leadership Program, a yearlong executive Nicholas C. Rego ’76 Kathleen Susan derserved communities into “strong, vibrant program that addresses racial and ethnic academic affairs at April 19, 2016 Glascock ’99 places of opportunity.” Clark Atlanta University disparities in health care. Terry is one of only July 12, 2016 38 people from the United States selected David A. Daniel ’77 in Atlanta, Georgia. for the program. June 16, 2016 Andrea Ayers 2000 Straka ’02 Sherry W. March 28, 2016 DIONNE NICOLE CURBEAM ’00 M.A., ROB SHEK ’94, a former Tiger midfielder, Schindler ’77 was inducted into the National Lacrosse Jan. 9, 2016 Bruce Lee director of instructional technology at Hall of Fame. An All-American in the 1990s, Simmons ’05 , was named to The he helped Towson win three consecutive William R. May 7, 2016 Daily Record’s 2016 VIP List—Very Important conference titles from 1989-1991. Shek won Desandro ’79 Professionals Successful by 40 awards. The March 20. 2016 Sari N. Kent ’06 two world championships as a member of list recognizes professionals 40 and younger, EagleStone Tax & Wealth Advisors, which Feb. 15, 2016 Team USA, capturing gold in 1994 and 1998. who have been successful in Maryland, offers portfolio management, tax prepa- Jean H. Fino ’81 He also played seven seasons indoors for the April 26, 2016 Dennis S. based on accomplishments, community ration and tax planning, and private trust, Philadelphia Wings and Baltimore Thunder, Mattingly ’06 service and the impact of their achievements estate administration and fiduciary oversight Jeanne L. Guay ’81 July 12, 2016 and four seasons outdoors with the Wash- in the community. services. Warring was a member of Towson’s July 10, 2016 ington Power and Baltimore Bayhawks. golf team and has supported the theatrical James M. Dubel ’07 Anita L. Joerdens ’80 March 30,2016 AYANO KUMADA SUGIYAMA ’02 has arts since taking an acting class at TU. RICHARD J. HOLLEY ’96 was awarded July 5, 2016 worked for the overseas sales division of the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service James Marousek ’08 Honda Motors for 10 years. She also met PETER O. NWOSU ’87 MA LIBERAL Medal for his work with the Yellow Ribbon Donnell E. Redman ’81 May 24, 2016 her husband at the company. The couple STUDIES was selected as provost and July 13, 2016 Reintegration Program. The Department of will be moving to Nairobi, Kenya, where her vice president for academic affairs at Clark Ryan M. Shupert ’08 Defense program connects National Guard husband will work for Honda Motors Kenya Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia. Nwosu Brian A. Schiner ’81 May 29, 2016 and Reserve members, and their families July 3, 2016 and she plans to apply to graduate school. is a tenured professor, a Fulbright Scholar, an and communities with resources throughout Jessica Price American Council on Education Fellow and a Elfriede R. Starkey ’81 Parsons ’09 deployment. MOVSM recognizes members JESSICA T. PEARSON ’02 DANCE is in graduate of the Institutes for Higher Educa- May 23, 2016 April 8, 2016 of the military, including active duty, reserve her third year as an assistant professor at tion at Harvard University. He is also the and National Guard, who show commitment Thomas J. Phillip C. Lee ’11 Rhode Island College in Providence, where author of three books and more than 80 to volunteer work and go above and beyond Heffernan ’82 July 4, 2016 she will choreograph, teach residencies scholarly publications. Previously, Nwo- the duties required as a member of the U.S. Feb. 29, 2016 AN ANIMATED GUY and present an evening of her work. Last su served as vice president for academic Kevin Patrick Armed Forces. February, she had her Boston premiere with programs at California State University - Mary M. Henry ’82 Magid ’14 ASSET COORDINATOR FINDS A “WEALTH OF CREATIVITY” Jan. 20, 2016 May 13, 2016 Urbanity Dance Company and spent this Fullerton. MATT KOVALAKIDES ’97 MCOM is the AT CARTOON NETWORK summer presenting her choreography at Col- lead creative strategist at Google’s YouTube. Linda Stelmack ’82 Michael Patrick lective Thread (NYC), The Series Vol. 1 (NYC) MELISSA “MISSY” FANSHAW ’89 EDEL, Stewart ’15 He teaches creators how to grow a fan Aug. 2, 2016 and Southern Vermont Dance Festival. principal of Rodgers Forge Elementary, was March 2, 2016 Kaya Savas ’09 works with some of TV’s “We have everything mapped out and base with their channels and is focused on named Elementary School Principal of the Stephen P. Gencel ’84 biggest stars, but you won’t find them on we have constant check-ins,” he says. writing best practices around using 360 JUSTIN DOESCHER ’02 won the first Year by Baltimore County Public Schools in Feb. 24, 2016 the red carpet. Savas works at Cartoon Working directly with the network’s and VR video. STUDENTS/ Amazon Video Direct Stars contest for his April. Wilma Lawson FACULTY/ Network, where all of the programs are creative teams, producers and executives horror film, “The Break-In.” The program DARREN PEYTON ’97 BUAD is the Padgett ’84 STAFF animated, there’s an arcade in the office, is Savas’s favorite part of the job—the awards royalties based on minutes streamed. STACY AKERS ALFORD ’89 MCOM small-business consultant in Carroll County, March 10, 2016 arcade and game station on his office floor Visit http://mashable.com/2016/07/27/ is the executive director for the Muscular Herbert D. Andrews and no two days are alike. Maryland’s ASBDC (America’s Small Busi- amazon-video-direct-stars-program- Dystrophy Association of Maryland. She Kirk Wilborne ’88 Aug. 3, 2016 “It’s not a boring office, that’s for sure,” are just added perks. ness Development Center.) He has worked winner/#bnXlkgMGRSqQ to watch. has 17 years of experience in fundraising July 14, 2016 says the electronic media and film alum. “We produce the content here,” Savas in hospitality and customer service manage- Dorothy N. Fix management for nonprofits throughout the Savas is the studio’s production asset says. “All of the voices are recorded here; ment in the United States and Europe for Joan Hammond ’90 July 11, 2016 LISA BRICKER ’03 PSYC, chief talent United States and in management of regional April 22, 2016 coordinator, managing and tracking pro- the dialogue is recorded here; and all of more than 20 years. officer at Celebree Learning Centers, was programs, including Special Olympics of Charles C. Flippen II duction assets for shows including “Ad- the model sheets and animatics are built inducted into the VIP Woman of the Year Maryland. She obtained her MBA in ’05. Karen L. Adams ’91 May 4, 2016 JACK S. MONELL ’97 MCOM received March 7, 2016 venture Time,” “Regular Show” and “The here.” Circle by the National Association of Pro- the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. award from Cynthia Mellerson Powerpuff Girls.” He’s also responsible for The atmosphere is a “wealth of cre- fessional Women for her leadership in social Winston-Salem University and Wake Forest Catherine R. Aug. 8, 2016 services and child care. 1990 Lansdell ’91 creating workflows and timelines. ativity,” according to Savas, who one day University for his social justice and commu- March 14, 2016 Harold E. Muma His role is to develop a plan for any aspires to work in show development. COURTNEY KRAEMER BOND ’93 GIOVANNI ALBEROTANZA ’05 POLI nity service work. July 2, 2016 assets the shows may spawn. Savas flexes his creative muscles out- received the 2016 Edward P. Gilligan Award Alex P. Miller ’91 became a partner of the law firm Rosenberg “If marketing needs to do a promo or if side of the workplace. He runs Film.Music. for Innovation, which recognizes entrepre- JEFFREY M. LAWSON ’98 ACCT, a October 18, 2015 Samuel Penn Martin Greenberg in July. He represents neurial spirit and those who power the future shareholder for Stoy, Malone & Co., P.C., was April 18, 2016 consumer products are working on a toy Media, a website where he writes reviews, people and businesses throughout all stages Angela T. Williams ’91 at American Express. As manager of Global appointed chair of the Maryland Association or building a digital mobile game, that is interviews film composers and manages a of civil and criminal federal and state tax March 16, 2016 Reza Sarhangi controversies, including litigation in federal Recruitment Governance and Policy, she has of Certified Public Accountants State Tax July 1, 2016 my area,” Savas explains. “I will talk to the team of writers. Typically, he dedicates a transformed hiring and recruiting. Committee. Sharon Simon show team, the producers and the creators few hours each night to the website after and state courts. Scheiner ’92 Mark David Scarinzi and curate the content for those projects.” he gets home from his day job SHERRY KOPP MOBLEY ’93 MCOM TANIKA L. SMITH ‘99/’01 M.A., assistant March 20, 2016 July 22, 2016 KELLY MAYS GRAMM ’05 and her “In filmmaking, the directors and the professor at Prince George’s Community Another part of his job entails meeting husband, Warren, announce the birth launched a small business, Bricks to You!, Stephen Harrison ’93 College, has her content for students and W. Michael Seganish with the production team to review asset actors get the glory and composers rarely of Matthew James, born Nov. 12, 2015. which specializes in mobile, LEGO-themed Sept. 27, 2013 July 14, 2016 birthday parties, special events and educa- educators featured in supplements and schedules. Production on just one epi- get a platform to speak,” Savas says. “I’m He joins big sister Catherine. tional activities in Baltimore and surrounding companion sites of textbooks, including Steven C. Forrest ’94 Dan Singer sode of an animated series can take nine really trying to build a library of great counties. The business participated in the Understanding Human Communication May 21, 2016 June 14, 2016 months to a year. content for people to explore.” n (12th Edition, 13th Edition pending), Essential Old Bay 5K in April. Cynthia Cocke ’95 Patricia Waters ’57 Communication (2015, 2nd Edition pending), July 21, 2016 May 4, 2016 STACEY SCHIANO ’93 CCMM joined Invitation to Human Communication (2016) —DARYL LEE HALE ’16

34 35 ELIZABETH B. BOROWSKY ’05 MUSC CHRISTINA KRAMER ’11 M.A. was CLASS NOTES and FRANCES GRACE BOROWSKY ’11 promoted to program expert at the MUSC toured Lithuania with their family in Social Security Administration in Woodlawn, April. The group performed concerts and Maryland. Kramer has worked at the gave master classes and lectures under SSA since 2007. the theme “Music: The Best Bridge for All People.” CHRIS F. ARAJ ’11 AU.D opened an audiology practice, Pearland Hearing Aids ERIC MOUYAL ’07 BUAD got married in & Audiology, in a suburb of Houston. He is 2015. He is a police detective, who will be president-elect of the Texas Academy of GIOVANNI commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Audiology. He and his wife Rund have been ALBEROTANZA ’05 U.S. Air Force in January, and plans to married for three years and welcomed their pursue a career in the security forces. first child, Andrew, this year. became a partner CHRISTINA JOHNSON ’07 and WILL STAFFORD ’11 ECON is an of the law firm ANTONIO GARGIULO ’07, who met agriculture policy adviser for U.S. Sen. Pat Rosenberg Martin while students at TU, married March 19 Roberts (R-), chairman of the Senate Greenberg in July. after 10 years of being together. Christina Agriculture Committee. Previously, Stafford is a school counselor for Baltimore County was director of government affairs for the Public Schools and Antonio is the director National Association of Wheat Growers, of career services at Brightwood College representing family wheat farmers and COURTNEY in Baltimore. focusing on policy in international trade, BRUST ’08 research and transportation. He lives on COURTNEY BRUST ’08 SPAN joined Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. joined Kaler’s Kaler’s Estates and Trusts Practice as an associate in the Estates and Trusts Group, RONALD POOLE ‘11/’13 M.A. and Estates and representing individuals and families in es- REBECCA BUESGENS ’13 BIOL married Trusts Practice tate planning and administration. in June at Belmont Manor in Elkridge, as an associate. Maryland. The couple met through the TU JILL SPIEGEL ’08 received the James Marching Band, when Poole was section McBride Teaching Award from the Jonathan leader of the saxophone section and Buesgens D. Krist Foundation. The award recognizes was a freshman saxophonist. They live in MEGAN excellent teachers in under-resourced com- Timonium with their cat Molly and both work DIGREGORIO ’10 munities. Siegel is an English teacher, team for Baltimore County Public Schools. leader and department chair at Foundation a former Tiger cross- Academies in Trenton, New Jersey. ROBIN SU ’12 BUAD joined the tax department of Gross, Mendelsohn & country runner, has run SCOTT STAUBER ’08 BUAD is the ex- Associates, P.A. six ultra marathons— ecutive chef at Points South Latin Kitchen 50-mile courses. on Thames Street in Fells Point. He “brings BRIANNA MORGAN GARRISON ’14 a gutsy, trained-on-the-job finesse to the graduated from the Baltimore County Police kitchen, enhanced by growing up with his Academy and is assigned to the Dundalk grandmother’s Panamanian cooking,” ac- precinct for the next two years. She was CHRIS F. cording to an article in the Baltimore Sun. among 43 recruits to graduate, and one ARAJ ’11 of 14 women. PATRICK SMITH ’09, photographer for opened an Getty Images, won a first place award from KYLE FLENS ’14 MUSC performed a con- audiology practice, The White House News Photographers cert of new music for flute and percussion Association in the category 2016 Eyes of at the Northern Illinois University School Pearland Hearing History: Still Contest: Picture Story/Sports. of Music where he is a graduate student. Aids & Audiology, The award took him to the White House A multifaceted percussionist, Flens is a in a suburb of where he shook hands with President Barack member of Projeto Arcomusical and has Houston. Obama. Smith’s work has been recognized performed at the Percussive Arts Society In- with many prizes, most recently, according ternational Convention, the Institutio Inhotim to his website, as the 2016 runner-up ‘Sports in Brazil and throughout the Chicago area. Photographer of the Year’ by both the NPPA Best of Photojournalism and Pictures of the ZOEY WARECKI ’14 PHYS was awarded Year International. a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship for her “demonstrated potential to contribute to strengthening the 2010 vitality of the U.S. Science and engineering enterprise.” She is enrolled in the Ph.D. pro- EREK ZIMMERMAN ’10 and DANIELLE gram at the Materials Science and Engineer- WE HEARD YOUR ROAR! PARADISO ’10 were married on Oct. 1. Thank you to those who participated ing at University of Maryland, College Park. MEGAN DIGREGORIO ’10 posted a time in our TU Alumni Association Survey. began filming “The of 39:57, making her the female winner MAX RADBILL ’15 In thr coming months and in the Sisterhood of Girls Who Won’t Date Me,” of the Arbutus Firecracker 10K on July 4. next issue, we’ll share with you what financed by $25,000 from a Kickstarter The former Tiger cross-country runner we’ve learned and how we’re going campaign. to act on it to make it even better has placed first in a number of local races to be a #towsonALUM and has run six ultra marathons—50-mile REBECCA ANDERSON ’15 was accepted courses. to Columbia University’s Master of Science program for journalism.

36 PB “Teaching is just a joy to me, and I hope my monetary and non-monetary contributions have been, and will be, salutary.”

Dr. Richard Vatz has been a Towson University faculty member for 42 years. His TU legacy extends through his students and through his planned gifts to support the College of Education, the College of Fine Arts and Communication, and the Dr. Richard E. Vatz Best Debater Award Endowment.

To make a planned gift, contact the Development Office at 1-866-301-3375.