Summer 2014 Lamp

name change

LAMPTHE

SUMMER • 2014

FROM THE PRESIDENT

WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY ADMINISTRATION

President Douglas G. Lee

Chancellor Timothy R. Thyreen

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Jacquelyn Core

Senior Vice President for Enrollment and University Relations Robin L. King

Chief Financial Officer John Olon

Vice President for Student Services Mary Cummings

THE LAMP - SUMMER 2014

The Lamp is published by the Office of University Relations at Waynesburg University, 51 West College Street, Waynesburg, PA 15370. Waynesburg University is a Christian university offering more than 70 programs of study at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels.

Editor Ashley Wise

Contributing Writers Robert Fox Kayla Longstreth Samantha McClintock Ashley Wise

Photography Joey Kennedy Randy Laskody Dave Miller Gregory Reinhart Marc Soracco Ray Viglione

Art Direction Carrie McAfee

Contributing Designer Corin Schipani

Alumni Services [email protected] Phone: 724.852.3300 Fax: 724.627.3225

Correspondence [email protected] Phone: 724.852.3293

All rights reserved®.

Unauthorized duplication of publication or material is strictly prohibited without express written consent of the copyright holder.

With this edition of the Lamp, I am pleased to share with you some of the many incredible academic, service, faith and leadership initiatives our students, faculty and staff have begun.

As our campus continues to transform and renovations of Stewart Science Hall move forward, we anticipate enhancing our rigorous academic programs with facilities to match. The $23 million project will provide state-of-the-art facilities for future leaders in biology, chemistry, forensics, mathematics and medicine.

Nationally, the University continues to gain recognition for its effectiveness and the achievements of its graduates. We recently received word that Waynesburg University has been ranked a top value college in an outcome-based college rankings index compiled by Educate To Career (ETC).

This index confirmed something we already knew – a Waynesburg University education is a good value. Objective measures regarding our institution’s effectiveness and value continue to demonstrate our University’s commitment to excellence.

For example, our freshman retention rate this year was near an all-time high. Additionally, according to the federal government's College Scorecard, the loan default rate for Waynesburg graduates is 4.5 percent, which is substantially lower than the national average of 14.7 percent.

Another objective measure that illustrates the caliber of individuals at Waynesburg is our career path rate. Within one year of graduation, 96 percent of 2012 graduates reported working full-time within their chosen field or attending graduate school.

While it is informative to look at these facts, the most compelling examples of the value of a Waynesburg University education can be found in the successes of our students, some of which you will read about in the following pages. Through the liberal arts education they receive at Waynesburg, students graduate ready to faithfully transform their communities and the world. They graduate prepared to be good citizens and leaders in all aspects of their lives, from their careers to faith and service.

We are thankful for your continued support, and I encourage you to celebrate with us the path of progress, innovation and faith that the University continues to follow.

Douglas G. LeePresident

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FROM THE PRESIDENT

The Inauguration of Douglas G. Lee In March, the University officially welcomed its new president with an Inaugural Ceremony, a Day of Service and a performance by a Grammy winning artist.

Worthy of Trust and ConfidenceGerald “Jared” Edgreen, a 2007 alumnus, shares what it’s like to be an officer in the U.S. Secret Service.

Just a Scar Faith, determination and the support of friends help junior sports management major R.J. Tonks overcome a debilitating diagnosis.

Journeys of a Lifetime From Japan to Peru and beyond, six Waynesburg University students study abroad through the Vira I. Heinz Program for Women this summer.

Features

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Recent Developments

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Campus News

Sports Update

Alumni News

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RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

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Waynesburg University’s graduate career path analysis report and National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) results indicate an institutional commitment to a high level of faculty and student interaction.

Through its student survey, The College Student Report, NSSE

annually collects information at hundreds of four-year colleges

and universities about student participation in programs and

activities that institutions provide for their learning and personal

development. Results outlined in Waynesburg University’s NSSE

report indicate a campus culture in which faculty place high

importance on providing mentorship and interacting with students

one-on-one.

According to NSSE, survey items on The College Student Report

represent empirically confirmed “good practices” in undergraduate

education. That is, they reflect behaviors by students and

institutions that are associated with desired outcomes of college,

one of which is a high career path rate, which measures the amount

of graduates on the career path they set for themselves.

Waynesburg University’s career path rate, which states that 96

percent of 2012 graduates reported working full-time or attending

graduate school within one year of graduation, is reflective of a 77

percent response rate and is, in part, a result of practices outlined in

the NSSE report.

NSSE provides participating institutions with reports that compare

their students’ responses with those of students at self-selected

groups of comparison institutions. Waynesburg University’s NSSE

report indicates that, in comparison to other Council for Christian

Colleges & Universities (CCCU) schools:

• 28 percent more Waynesburg University students talked about

career plans with a faculty member

• 20 percent more Waynesburg University students discussed their

academic performance with a faculty member

• 7 percent more Waynesburg University students worked with a

faculty member on activities other than coursework

• 15 percent more Waynesburg University students participated in a

learning community or some other formal program

• 23 percent more Waynesburg University courses have included a

community-based project (service learning)

“At Waynesburg, our students are our priority,” said Dr. Jacquelyn

Core, Waynesburg University provost and vice president for

academic affairs. “Every decision we make takes into account our

Christian mission and tradition. We are constantly asking, ‘how can

we best serve our students?’”

University demonstrates "good practices"

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS


Waynesburg University ranks high for degree value, graduate employabilityWaynesburg University was recently ranked a top value

college in an outcome-based college rankings index

compiled by Educate To Career (ETC),

which describes its rankings as an effort

to deliver on the promise of the federal

government's College Scorecard by

providing “actual college outcomes

data.”

“The Index empirically determines the

economic value added by each of the

over 1,200 colleges ranked within our

system,” said ETC founder Michael R.

Havis. “We calculate the improvement

in earnings and employability of persons

who attended specific colleges, relative

to persons who are similarly situated in

other colleges.”

Waynesburg University ranked No. 104

out of the more than 1,200 schools

listed in the nationwide ETC College

Rankings Index. Included in the ranking

are four-year colleges with annual

enrollments greater than 1,000 students.

According to ETC, colleges in the top third of the ETC Index

have a relatively high percentage of graduates employed in

their field of study and the earnings of

graduates are relatively high. In addition,

a majority of students graduate in four

or five years and loan default rates are

very low.

According to the federal government's

College Scorecard, the loan default rate

for Waynesburg graduates is 4.5 percent,

which is substantially lower than the

national average of 14.7 percent.

The ETC Index analyzes the quality

of students when they enter a given

college, the total costs related to

attending the college and the outcomes

of the students when they enter the

labor market. The rankings results are

determined by which schools did the

best job of improving the earnings and

attainment of quality employment of

their students, according to a description

of the index on the group's website.

Waynesburg University was recently selected by U.S.

News & World Report as a Best Value School – Regional

Universities (North) in the 2014 "U.S. News Best

Colleges" ranking, which identifies the top 15 "Best

Value Schools" in the northern region of the country.

As defined by U.S. News & World Report, schools

named to the list are above average academically and

cost considerably less than many other schools when

the financial aid that they dispense, in the form of need-

based grants and scholarships, is taken into account.

U.S. News & World Report names Waynesburg a Best Value School for the North

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS


Waynesburg University named one of “50 Most Beautiful Christian College & University Campuses in the World”Waynesburg University was recently selected as one of “The 50 Most Beautiful Christian College & University Campuses in the World” by the editors of ChristianUniversitiesOnline.org.

The schools on the list were chosen from a global pool of Christian

colleges and universities that were considered broadly evangelical

in their theological outlook and were known to the editors of

ChristianUniversitiesOnline.org.

“The University has managed to balance its exemplary historical

edifices and unspoiled rural surroundings with modern facilities as

well,” the ranking stated.

According to the editors, the list was put together as an aid for

prospective students looking for a Christian school where their

quest for truth will be enhanced by truly beautiful surroundings.

“Many universities and colleges across the globe provide both high-

quality education and a thorough devotion to Christian principles,”

the ChristianUniversitiesOnline.org article stated. “However, some

institutions associated with the teachings of Jesus excel not only

academically and spiritually, but also aesthetically – boasting some

of the loveliest looking campuses anywhere on Earth.”

In 2013, ChristianUniversitiesOnline.org named Waynesburg

University one of the most beautiful Christian colleges in America.

All of the schools included on the domestic list were members or

affiliates of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities.


“We were alphabetically seated back then,” John said. “If there were

one less seat in that classroom, we might not be here today.”

Coulson, a 1947 education alumnus, and Conley, a 1944 social

studies alumna, spent those early years at Waynesburg in a flurry

of activities – he a star basketball player and she a high honors

student. They attended dances together and shared the same group

of friends, but they hesitated to develop a serious relationship when

John enlisted in World War II.

“During the war, we went our separate ways and would keep in

touch maybe once a year,” Patricia said. “Then out of the blue, John

called me and asked me out.”

When he returned from the war, John did indeed take Patricia out.

Soon after, the pair married.

This year, on the couple’s 67th wedding anniversary, they visited the

very room where they first met. As they laughed and talked together,

marveling at the “miraculous” changes to Waynesburg University

since their time and recalling old friends and classmates, any

onlooker could observe that they are still very much in love.

The Coulsons, who live in Sewickley, Pa., both had careers in

education. Patricia taught students Latin and English at Saltsburg

High School until her retirement. John, who earned a master of

education degree from Duquesne University, taught at Saltsburg

High School before becoming the county superintendent and

assistant director of the Armstrong-Indiana County Intermediate

Unit until his retirement in 1979.

They remain passionate about education and Waynesburg

University’s mission of educating students to lives of purpose for

the glory of God. They attend Homecoming and alumni events

regularly to reconnect with classmates and to watch the continuing

growth and prosperity of Waynesburg University.

Over the years, they have been generous supporters of the

University. They are members of the Stewart Society and were the

second couple in the University’s history to be named Distinguished

Alumni Award recipients in 2000.

John, who still looks fondly at his wife, advises students to enjoy

college – a place where joy can begin and endure for many, many

years.

“If you’re having a great time, recognize it now if you can,” he said.

“So many people take 10 years to look back and say, ‘those were the

best days of my life,’ but you don’t have to wait that long.”

Seventy-three years ago, John Coulson’s professor assigned him a lucky seat beside Patricia Conley in a history class on the third floor of Waynesburg University’s Miller Hall. The historic building has seen many stories, but perhaps none so endearingly fateful as theirs.

A Return to Campus

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Waynesburg University held its annual Commencement exercises Sunday, May 18, honoring approximately 600 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students.Laura E. Ellsworth, a partner at Jones Day and vice chair of the board of the Pennsylvania State

System of Higher Education, delivered the Commencement Address, during which she shared

personal stories and words of wisdom from inspirational leaders including Mother Theresa and

Maya Angelou.

Ellsworth urged graduates not to be afraid of failure, reminding them that people who have failed

have learned to overcome obstacles.

“Failure makes us stronger and better,” she said. “It’s up to us to choose how we are going to

learn from it.”

The following graduates were named valedictorians:

• Kaitlyn Grace Berkebile, an early childhood education major from Friedens, Pa.

• Alyssa Brooke Crile, an early childhood education major from Washington, Pa.

• Daniel Vincent Czajkowski, a criminal justice administration major from Frederick, Md.

• Corin Rae Schipani, a digital design major from Duquesne, Pa.

• Hannah Michelle Szymanik, an early childhood education major from Mount Holly Springs, Pa.

Czajkowski delivered the valedictory to the University on behalf of the valedictorians. Elizabeth

Hardy, a graduate of the Master of Business Administration Program from Canonsburg, Pa.,

represented the graduate program students.

Two graduates, Samuel A. Lombardo, a criminal justice administration major from Canonsburg,

Pa., and Ryan E. Walters, a finance major from Pleasant Unity, Pa., were commissioned Second

Lieutenants in the Army of the United States of America during the Commencement ceremony.

Ellsworth and Rev. Thomas M. Hall II, senior pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Pittsburgh,

were awarded honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degrees. The degrees were conferred upon

Ellsworth and Hall for the ways in which they parallel Waynesburg University’s mission of faith,

learning and serving.

Prior to commencement exercises, Hall delivered the Baccalaureate Address, “Where Have All

the Heroes Gone?” to graduates and their parents, during which he referenced Luke 8:26-39. He

urged graduates to let God step into their lives so that they can live out His calling.

“Heroes say ‘I will be who God calls me to be,’ in a world where others say ‘Be all you can be,’”

Hall said.

To view photos from Baccalaureate and Commencement, visit www.waynesburg.edu/2014grads.

Commencement2014

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Blazing atrail for women

Historical Perspective:

When Phoebe Jane Teagarden was born on March 25, 1841, she had no idea the influence she would make during her lifetime.

She didn’t know she would become the first female physician in Greene County or that she would use her skills, knowledge and compassion to serve those around her. Regardless of her inability to tell the future, God knew, even then, how He would use her to make a difference in the lives of many.


trail for

One of four children, Teagarden grew up watching her father, Isaac

Teagarden, fight for what he believed in. A mill-wright by trade,

Isaac also strongly displayed his political beliefs, arguably one of his

most passionate being that of liberty and equal rights. When the

question of slavery arose, Isaac did what he could to assist in the

organization of the Abolition Party and cast one of its first votes in

Greene County.

With such an ardent father to look up to, it’s no surprise that

Teagarden began a similar journey of her own. When

the time came to pursue higher education, she

turned her attention to Waynesburg College

and graduated with honors. She taught for

several years, but quickly realized she

wanted to do more.

She wanted a medical degree.

During the time, medicine was

not an easily accessible profession

for women, but if Teagarden

had learned anything in her

upbringing, it was that anything

was possible. With as much drive

and determination as her father,

Teagarden entered a three-

year program at the Woman’s

Medical College of Pennsylvania

at Philadelphia, graduating as part

of the class of 1882.

Teagarden was a Republican and

fervently promoted woman’s suffrage.

While in medical school, she befriended

Susan B. Anthony, a fellow abolitionist and

a pivotal role model of the woman’s suffrage

movement. She later persuaded Anthony to give a benefit

lecture at her alma mater, Waynesburg College.

“At that time, Waynesburg College was being ‘financed’ by nearly

every teacher, student and woman in Greene County,” wrote

Teagarden in a 1920 article from “Woman Citizen,” as she looked

back on the event.

“I at once asked Miss Anthony to come to give a benefit lecture for

the College at her convenience, during the spring or early summer

of that year. We had some correspondence, and a date during the

second week of May was decided upon. Miss Anthony gave two

lectures, and on Sunday afternoon a talk in the Town Hall. A goodly

sum was handed over to the College authorities.”

That was only the beginning of her influence.

After graduating from medical school, Teagarden opened her own

practice in Waynesburg, becoming the first female physician in

Greene County. Her horse and buggy clambered along the

streets as she went door to door, visiting with sick

patients. During those early years of her practice,

Teagarden happily taught first aid courses to

young women at Waynesburg College. She

was heavily concerned with the welfare

and health of needy children and, out of

that concern, helped to establish the

Greene County Children’s Aid Society

and served as its president for 25

years.

Despite all of the things she was

involved in, nothing ever appeared

to be too much for Teagarden. She

was a member of the Cumberland

Presbyterian Church, the Daughters

of the American Revolution, the Dolly

Madison chapter Colonial Dames

of Pittsburgh, the National Society of

Daughters of 1812, the Pennsylvania

Historical Society, the State Humane

Society, the Waynesburg College faculty

and the Waynesburg Women’s Club. She also

held the offices of secretary, vice president and

president of the Greene County Medical Society.

Even as she grew frail from age, her passion for equal rights drove

her forward. After the women’s suffrage movement succeeded

and the 19th Amendment was ratified, Teagarden pulled together

the strength she had left and graciously cast her vote, historically

becoming the first woman to vote in Waynesburg.

Teagarden lived a life full of meaning, becoming an inspiration in the lives

of the many people that she touched. Now, she stands as an example

of what it means to live a life of purpose for the glory of God.

the time came to pursue higher education, she

turned her attention to Waynesburg College

and graduated with honors. She taught for

several years, but quickly realized she

Teagarden was a Republican and

fervently promoted woman’s suffrage.

While in medical school, she befriended

Susan B. Anthony, a fellow abolitionist and

streets as she went door to door, visiting with sick

patients. During those early years of her practice,

Teagarden happily taught first aid courses to

young women at Waynesburg College. She

was heavily concerned with the welfare

and health of needy children and, out of

that concern, helped to establish the

Daughters of 1812, the Pennsylvania

Historical Society, the State Humane

Society, the Waynesburg College faculty

and the Waynesburg Women’s Club. She also

held the offices of secretary, vice president and

president of the Greene County Medical Society.


A Day of Service A University-wide Day of Service kicked off the inaugural events Saturday, March

22. Locally, approximately 300 volunteers contributed more than 1,000 service

hours at 20 local organizations. Alumni with graduation years as early as 1955

and as recent as 2013 also served in their own communities, spanning from

North Dakota to New Hampshire to Moldova.

Service Sites• Adopt-A-Highway

• American Cancer Society

• Bridge St. Commons

• CBM camp

• Eva K. Bowlby Public Library

• Greene County Food Bank

• Greene County Humane Society

• Greene County United Way

• Lions Club

• Merit Badge University

• Mobile Medical Van

• Red Cross SAFE Program

• Red Cross Sheltering

• Rolling Meadows Nursing & Rehabilitation

• Special Olympics

• Saint Ann Catholic Church

• The Salvation Army

• Washington Salvation Army

• Waynesburg Borough Parks

• WWJD Center




Historically, inaugurations are important days made up of pomp,

speeches, traditions and regalia. At Waynesburg University, prayer,

scripture, service and a performance by a Grammy winning artist

were added to the multi-day celebration.

On the morning of Tuesday, March 25, 2014, the excitement on

campus was palpable. Students and staff alike donned suits, bowties

and orange scarfs. From the tops of the light poles in Johnson

Commons, banners portraying distinguished alumni from the

University’s earliest years waved a welcome to special guests from all

over the country.

The 11 o’clock ceremony began with delegates from institutions of

higher education and learned societies joining the University faculty,

trustees and principle administrative officers in procession at the

academic ceremony in a packed Roberts Chapel.

As Chancellor Timothy R. Thyreen presented the University’s

great Chain of Office to Lee, two eras of leadership and one united

mission converged at the front of the Chapel. And as Mark Fox,

chair of the University’s Board of Trustees, proudly stated the

words: “I now present to you, friends of the University, the fifteenth

president of Waynesburg University, Douglas Lee,” all present were

on their feet and applauding an official, heartfelt welcome to the

new president.

During his inaugural address, Lee, who officially became president in

July 2013, focused on the University’s founding principles as well as

its current state.

“With our feet planted firmly on our foundation and our eyes and

minds to the future, we will combine the best of the past with the

best of the present to produce leaders and scholars for tomorrow,”

he said.

Lee discussed the virtues of a liberal arts, globally conscious and

Christ-driven education for Waynesburg University students. He

thanked Waynesburg’s faculty and staff for their commitment to

shaping young minds and preparing students for “lives of purpose

for the glory of God.”

For the 15th time in 165 years, Waynesburg University has inaugurated a president.

The Inauguration of Douglas G. Lee

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Heavily referencing the University’s mission, which dates back to

1849, Lee showed gratitude and humility for the leaders who came

before him.

“Fueled by the prayers and work of the generations before us, we are

not afraid of the future because we have been strengthened by the

past,” he said. “We have survived wars, depressions and lean, hard

years, and through this process have grown stronger than ever with

a resolution and commitment to faith and learning exemplified by

the words carved in stone on our library and cast in bronze plaques

on our buildings.”

He also challenged his colleagues, friends and guests to join him on

a journey of continued faith and courage and to remain confident

in the University’s students.

“While the issues they [our students] face are large, we will not let

them lose confidence because we will not lose confidence in them.”

Lee said. “We must be the great encouragers.”

Echoing sentiments from the various speakers throughout the

service, Lee spoke about the quality of students that Waynesburg

University readies for the world.

He asserted his confidence that the University’s students, faculty,

staff and alumni make an impact in the lives of others through

service, describing one of the aims of a Waynesburg University

education as “developing students with the personal integrity that

comes when the connections between faith, learning and serving

are so many and so intertwined that a life's purpose is not mere

existence but transformational.”

Fox conducted the investiture of Lee prior to the President’s

inaugural address, during which he praised Lee’s reverence for the

University’s heritage and his commitment to the success of the

students, stating that Lee’s attention to the past is evident in his

vision for the future.

“Widely respected for his creative pattern of intellectual leadership,

he has embraced the challenges of today’s changing world,

serving as a pillar of sound judgment while further advancing the

University’s vital role as a leader in Christian higher education.”

Fox described Lee as “a man of great faith who embodies the very

characteristics the University strives to instill within its students,”

and noted that Lee is a servant leader who leads by putting others

first.

“We have confidence that you

[President Lee], with your

unique vision, will work with the

University community to shape

the institution, as together, we

move into the future.”

– Charles A. Beiter,

professor of English

“I knew President Lee many years ago when he was a student at Waynesburg College. I remember him being very friendly and very polite then, and he is still that way today. It is wonderful to see the kindhearted, ambitious leader he has become.” – Norma Harper, academic affairs secretary and class of 1977

“The community has welcomed Doug with open

arms because he shares the values that have made

Waynesburg University a beloved institution for 165

years – faith, knowledge, principle and family. I have

no doubt Doug will carry on these traditions with

distinction and the humility of a man who follows in

Christ’s footsteps.”

– Written by U.S.

Congressman Tim Murphy,

read by his Deputy Chief of

Staff Lou Lazzaro

GREETINGS


“President Lee, the board of trustees has chosen you as president of

Waynesburg University,” Fox said. “Yours will be the great privilege

and responsibility of leading the University as it continues in its

mission of inspiring and challenging students to lives of leadership

and purpose for the glory of God.”

He also urged Lee to “draw inspiration from the students who

aspire to become world changers; from the alumni who serve as

examples of success; and from the faculty and staff who nurture and

challenge the spirit of their students while remaining accomplished

scholars and discoverers in their own right.”

Following the investiture and the presentation of the medallion,

Dr. Carolyn Thyreen presented a Bible that belonged to Margaret

Bell Miller, the wife of Waynesburg University’s third president, A.B.

Miller, to President Lee’s wife, Kathryn Lee.

“Today, Mrs. Miller’s Bible is passed down through the first ladies of

the institution, a tangible symbol of Mrs. Miller’s steadfast devotion

to faith, a reminder of our heritage and an inspiration to the

individuals who lead Waynesburg University today,” Fox said.

Before the investiture, greetings were delivered from the United

States House of Representatives on behalf of U.S. Congressman Tim

Murphy by his deputy chief of staff Lou Lazzaro; the Pennsylvania

Senate by Senator Tim Solobay; and the Pennsylvania House of

Representatives by Representative Pam Snyder.

Greetings were also delivered on behalf of the faculty by the

University’s most senior professor, Dr. Charles A. Beiter, professor of

English; from the staff by Norma Harper, the University’s longest

serving employee; from the alumni by Jack Hinds, class of 1975;

and from the student body by Daniel Czajkowski, Student Senate

president.

Prior to joining the academic procession, Lee delivered remarks to

students in a packed Rudy Marisa Fieldhouse, where they viewed

the event via a live feed.

“The people before us, like those on the banners in Johnson

Commons, represent individuals who have done great things

not only on their own, but together, for the greater good of the

community and the University – that is our tradition,” he said.

“I bring greetings from

the senate of Pennsylvania

congratulating Doug and his

family on this very special day,

and also to the University and

the opportunities that it now

has.”

-Senator Tim Solobay

“[President Lee’s] vision and

passion for the future of this

University and his love of its

history is simply inspiring. We

are truly in good hands for the

long haul.”

–Jack Hinds, class of 1975

“President Lee believes in us, and as students,

we believe in President Lee. We believe in

President Lee because he stands behind us,

prays over us, goes above and beyond for us,

and most importantly, challenges us to reach

for the heights of Christian leadership.”

– Daniel Czajkowski,

Student Senate President

“As I stand before you this morning, there are two things today that I know. I know that we are all blessed to be gathered here together as Doug Lee becomes the fifteenth president of our beloved University. And the other thing I know – I know that President Lee will carry forth this University’s

Christian mission, and I know he will be committed to the next generation of students that come into these hallowed halls.” -Representative Pam Snyder


■ ■ ■

“Today, Mrs. Miller’s Bible is passed down through the first ladies of the institution, a tangible symbol of Mrs. Miller’s steadfast devotion

to faith, a reminder of our heritage and an inspiration to the individuals who lead Waynesburg University today.”

■ ■ ■


Thank you, Judge Allen, for your beautiful solo. Thank you to

Vice President King for leading us in the National Anthem

and also to Dr. Depriest and Director Catana and all of our

musicians for the magnificent music.

Thanks to Marshall Waddell for leading the processional, to

our colleagues in higher education; and to the presidents

and delegates representing their fine institutions, we are

honored by your presence and participation today.

Thank you to Senator Solobay and Representative Snyder

and to Congressman Murphy, represented here by Mr.

Lazzaro. We are grateful for your leadership.

Thanks also to the members of our Board of Trustees, led by

Chariman Fox and to Chancellor and Dr. Thyreen for their

work and support during this transition. Thank you to the

members of the faculty and staff of Waynesburg University,

led by Provost Core and Vice President Cummings, and to

the students, alumni and friends of Waynesburg University

who are present and watching by broadcast.

Thank you to our building and grounds staff, who day in and

day out work tirelessly to keep this campus beautiful.

And thank you to Mary Fox and all the members of the

Inauguration Committee who have worked so very hard over

the last nine months to make this day very special and very

appropriate for this great institution.

Kathryn and I are so happy all of you are here and that

many of our family and friends, including our brothers and

sisters, our daughter Lauren, son-in-law Mike, grandson

Connor and my mother, Donna, were able to join us for this

celebration. We ask God’s protection for our son Brendan,

on deployment with the United States Air Force. And we

also remember my late father Gilbert and father-in-law Joe,

who we know are rejoicing in that celestial city of the Lord.

Almost 24 years ago, President Timothy Thyreen concluded

his inaugural address with the words of one of our finest

President's, A.B. Miller. It was A.B. Miller who laid the

foundation of this University and set it on its course and at

the close of his 40 years as President, he said, “If I had any

conviction of providential direction in my life, it is that God

led me in the course I have pursued in regard to our college.

How much better another person could have discharged the

duties of this place, I cannot know. It is a source of comfort

to have the internal assurance that I have done as well as

was in my power to do, in performing a work to which my

heavenly father called me, and which I have been able to do

only through a sense of sustaining grace.”

We who have watched the progress of this University since

President Thyreen repeated the statement of President

Miller have witnessed those words become a testimony not

only to the work of President Miller, but also to the work

and commitment of President Thyreen. A commitment that,

against all odds, returned us to our founding mission and

in the process, transformed a small struggling college into a

vibrant university with a clear sense of purpose.

The words are also inspiring because they not only embody

the work of those two great presidents, but also represent

the type of love and devotion exhibited by the countless

faculty and staff who have served this University since our

founding.

Today we celebrate not only an Inauguration, but also the

day when, 164 years ago, our Charter was granted. It is

The Inaugural Address


therefore an appropriate moment for us to reflect on the

great mission of this University.

A mission born out of the “Second Great Awakening”

which strengthened and fueled the woman's suffrage

movement and abolition. A mission that brought Susan

B. Anthony to our campus in 1880 to speak for women

and saw African American ministers ordained in the

Cumberland Presbyterian Church in the 1800s. A mission

that has given our nation and the world leaders of integrity

with a strong commitment to service. Graduates who

founded universities, established churches, ministered to the

poor and cared for lepers. Others who served as governors,

judges, and in Congress, as leaders in the military including

at least one who received the

Congressional Medal of Honor

for rescuing a wounded comrade

at the Battle of Gettysburg. Still

others who were personal friends

of presidents and prime ministers,

leaders of business and industry,

those who engaged in medical

research, helped find a cure for

polio or directed part of Project

Gemini.

The sons and daughters of

Waynesburg University have

functioned at all levels of society,

living lives of purpose distinctly

affected by what they were taught here.

Our symbol is the Lamp and our motto "Fiat Lux," Let

there be light… We seek to bear witness to the true light

that illuminates all knowledge. The Bible tells us that the

faithful do not place a lamp under a bushel, but rather on

a stand for the world to see, and to let our light so shine

before others that they may see our good works and glorify

our Father who is in heaven. The founders of this University

and those that followed were dedicated to bringing the

light of truth into the world through education. Although

they are gone, their prayers remain and many, including

President and Mrs. Miller, have their final resting place in

the cemetery that sits on this hill with this Chapel.

Today, I stand before you and pledge everything I am and

all that I have to that mission. It is my prayer, that at the

close of my Presidency, the words of President Miller and

Chancellor Thyreen may also be my words.

At a time in our history when the goals and values of higher

education are under scrutiny, our lamp burns bright. Fueled

by the prayers and work of the generations before us, we are

not afraid of the future because we have been strengthened

by the past. We have survived wars, depressions, and lean,

hard years, and through this process have grown stronger

than ever with a resolution and commitment to faith,

serving and learning exemplified by the words carved in

stone on our library and cast in bronze plaques on our

buildings.

Our programs and majors are

blessed with scholarly and

experienced faculty. We were

nationally recognized this year

for our academics and value. We

consistently achieve one of the

highest levels of scholar athletes

in our conference, and the career

placement of our graduating

seniors and retention of our

incoming freshmen is near an

all-time high, a testimony to

our faculty, staff and students.

One hallmark of a Waynesburg

University education is faculty/

student interaction and faculty

commitment to mentoring students. In this area, we

consistently rank near the top in surveys of peer institutions.

Our campus has been nationally ranked for its beauty. Our

service learning program was early in that field, and we

consistently receive national recognition for it.

Not only that, but the unique perspective of a Waynesburg

University education prepares students to be more than

wage earners or technocrats, but rather individuals with

a sense of purpose and mission. For this is one of the

aims of a Waynesburg University education. To develop

students with the personal integrity that comes when

the connections between faith, learning and serving are

so many and so intertwined that a life's purpose is not

mere existence but transformational. This is our tradition.

President Paul R. Stewart said many years ago, “All schools

aim at the acquisition of knowledge. Most schools add

■ ■ ■

Our symbol is the Lamp and our motto "Fiat Lux," Let there be light… We seek to bear witness to the true light that illuminates all knowledge.

■ ■ ■


the training of the faculties. Some schools further add the

formation of character. To all these, Waynesburg adds a

fourth which in the normally constituted student guides the

other three: the early development of an individual purpose

in life.”

Nor has our perspective on faith changed. A.B. Miller wrote

in the 1850s: “You cannot do good in the most important

sense unless you are in sympathy with the Cause of Christ.

The Cross is the center of moral power on the earth.”

Our students come from many faith backgrounds and

our intention while they are here is for them to grow in

an understanding of Jesus Christ. They have the rest of

their lives to develop all the

theological nuances. Our hope

for them is to consider not

only His teachings, but the

transformational impact of what

faith in Him brings to their lives.

To ponder the implications of

the great commandment of

loving the Lord your God with

all your heart, mind and soul and

loving your neighbor as yourself.

To consider the parable of the

good Samaritan and how that

teaching instructs us on service

to others. To ponder the meaning

of rendering unto Caesar what

is Caesar's and unto God what

is God’s. To begin to develop

an ethical construct that will guide them through life, built

upon the solid foundation of Jesus.

Through learning, we want to prepare our students to meet

the demands of their career paths and to graduate well

prepared for careers that currently exist and those that will

exist in the future. And while preparing them vocationally,

our desire is also to equip them for a lifetime of learning in

the way that only a liberal arts education can. For I believe

that a liberal arts education is the best way the inheritance

of knowledge is passed from one generation to the next.

As one of our faculty has so eloquently written:

Are our students complacent about suffering? Let them

read the poetry of the First World War, or the harrowing

camp literature of Solzhenitsyn and Primo Levi. Are they

estranged from heroism? Let Plutarch teach them about

Cato the Younger, or St. Perpetua communicate with them

on the eve of her martyrdom. How better to remind our

students to be grateful for the prosperity, freedom and

relative peace they do enjoy than to expose them to the

malevolent will to power lurking behind the writings of

Nietzsche, Lenin or Mussolini? Let them hear the world

through Mozart, the moral voice of Woody Guthrie, the

poetry of Longfellow or b. f. maiz. Let them see the world

through the eyes of Rembrandt, Georgia O’Keeffe or H.O.

Tanner, and help them to understand the significance of a

single life through Ghandi, Harriet Tubman or Judge John

Knox.

This is their birthright, the

opportunity to learn from the

great ideas and struggles of the

preceding generations. To engage

in the dialogue that can only take

place in the classrooms of higher

education. To deny them this

knowledge and understanding is

to deny them their birthright.

More significantly, a liberal arts

education is, in the long view of

history, critical to the continued

success of culture, society and

civilization. As Blessed John

Henry Newman so brilliantly

wrote in “The Idea of a University,” “[A] University training

is the great ordinary means to a great but ordinary end; it

aims at raising the intellectual tone of society, at cultivating

the public mind, at purifying the national taste...at giving

enlargement and sobriety to the ideas of the age...It is the

education which gives a person a clear, conscious view of his

or her own opinions and judgments, a truth in developing

them, an eloquence in expressing them, and a force in

urging them. It teaches one to see things as they are, to

go right to the point...to detect what is sophistical and to

discard what is irrelevant. It prepares a person to fill any post

with credit, and to master any subject with facility. It shows

a person how to accommodate oneself to others, how to

throw oneself into their state mind, how to influence them

and to come to an understanding with them.”

■ ■ ■

Our students come from many faith backgrounds and our intention while they are here is for them to grow in an understanding of Jesus Christ.

■ ■ ■


In service we seek to put into practice what we have learned

and what we believe. Through the daily examples of all at

this institution who collectively provide more than 50,000

hours of service in the community, nation and world

annually, we are touching lives. Each year I am inspired with

moving accounts of the work of our students, faculty and

staff, both here and abroad. They have helped to drill wells

for water in Africa, aided the suffering in Haiti, the poor in

Guatemala, and the homeless in our own cities. They have

volunteered in churches and government, in after-school

tutoring and countless public service organizations. As a

recent speaker and guest to Waynesburg observed, “Service

is in our DNA.” It is the essence of who we are. But we

cannot rest upon accolades. We must use service not only

as a way to minister, but also as a way to solve the problems

of this world. To develop

sustainable models of service

that not only help people meet

daily needs, but empower them

to take control of their destiny.

In doing all these things, we

will prepare our students not

just for their needs, but the

needs of their world. I often tell

the students at Waynesburg

that their generation will be

the next great generation to

serve on the world stage. I am

not alone in that observation.

Many of the great thinkers that

I have met in my short time as

President express a similar idea.

While the issues facing them

are complex and large, we will

not let them lose confidence

because we will not lose confidence in them. We must be

the great encouragers; for what great coach has ever told

his team before a game that all is lost? It is incumbent

upon us to give them the tools and outlook to face these

challenges. The perspective of a Waynesburg University

education can prepare our students to do this. Rather than

hiding their faith, we want our students’ faith to be a guide

for addressing the world problems, in part, by shaping its

institutions.

This idea has a long heritage.

John Calvin had in his vision for the Geneva Academy “a

place to teach students in order to prepare them for the

ministry and for the civil government.”

Alexis De Tocqueville made the following observation

of our education system and our democracy in 1835.

“It cannot be doubted that in the U.S., the instruction

of the people powerfully contributes to the support of

the Democratic Republic; and such must always be the

case, I believe, where the instruction which enlightens the

understanding is not separated from the moral education

which amends the heart.”

And implicit in the tradition of our democratic government

is the fundamental understanding

of the moral limitations of

individuals.

As Reinhold Niebuhr noted in

his work, “The irony of American

History,” “The Political philosophy

that underlies our Constitution

is characterized by a shrewd

awareness of the potential

conflicts of power and passion in

every community.”

As educators, we have been given

an amazing opportunity to serve

at a time when perhaps the world

most needs what Waynesburg

University can offer. Let us make

the most of this opportunity.

With our feet planted firmly on

our foundation and our eyes and minds to the future,

we will combine the best of the past with the best of the

present to produce leaders and scholars for tomorrow.

May our lamp forever be a light that bears witness to the

true light of this world.

For the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has

not overcome it.

Fiat Lux.

■ ■ ■

With our feet planted firmly on our foundation and our eyes and minds to the future, we will combine the best of the past with the best of the present to produce leaders and scholars for tomorrow.

■ ■ ■


An Evening with Michael W. Smith

The inaugural events concluded with a concert for the

University community, “An Evening with Michael W.

Smith,” in Roberts Chapel.

Between songs, Smith apologized for not wearing

Waynesburg orange and expressed his admiration for

the University’s important mission.

Smith has sold more than 15 million albums, scored

28 No. 1 hits and earned three Grammys and more

than 40 Dove Awards. Throughout his career, he

has had the opportunity to sing for United States

presidents and national leaders, and he counts among

his friends the Reverend Billy Graham and his son,

Franklin Graham.

But for all of Smith’s accolades, for his involvement in

his teen outreach, leadership in his local church body,

the business of being an artist, an author and a record

label executive, Michael sums up his goal as this: “To

be remembered as a God-fearing man who loved his

wife and kids well.”


Put to the test time and time again, Waynesburg University alumnus Gerald “Jared” Edgreen proved to the U.S. Secret Service that he has what it takes to be a vital part of their elite organization. Now, he guards the President of the United States of America...and sometimes, he plays with the First Family’s dog, Bo.

Worthy of Trust and Confidence


In 2006, Gerald “Jared” Edgreen sat

quietly in a classroom on the campus of

Waynesburg University, listening to his

professor, Tom Reddington, tell stories

about when he was in the United States

Secret Service.

With an occasional dream of becoming

a Secret Service agent himself, the 2007

Waynesburg University graduate had

written papers about the agency in high

school, and his interest was again sparked

as he listened to the veteran recall his time

of service.

The Waynesburg, Pa., native thought there

was no way he could ever be an officer

himself. Not a chance.

Not until, of course, what seemed

impossible came true.

“Only a couple years after Reddington was

telling his stories, I found myself standing

next to the President.”

Edgreen, currently an officer-technician

for the Motorcade Support Unit of the

U.S. Secret Service, works to ensure that

all motorcade routes for President Barack

Obama and Vice President Joe Biden are

safe and secure. With his unit, he mitigates

any threats as they come and is also called

upon for protective missions all over the

United States as well as internationally.

The journey to his spot next to the

President was not an easy one, but for

Edgreen, it was worth it.

“The long interview process was worth it

because it was a job worth waiting for, and

I knew that the end result was a career

that would open doors and give me many

opportunities in life.”

The long and tedious interview process

began with a lengthy written application,

background questionnaires, a written test,

panel interviews, the successful completion

of a polygraph test and a home interview.

Once he completed that round, it was time

for round two – a three-day assessment to

determine if he could meet the rigorous

physical and mental requirements of the

agency. Again successful, Edgreen then

spent six and a half months in training

at the Federal Law Enforcement Training

Center (FLETC) in Glynco, Ga., and the

James J. Rowley Training Center near

Washington, D.C. During this time, his

areas of study included academics, driving,

fighting, physical fitness, shooting and

tactics.

"Pretty much the things you see on TV,”

Edgreen said, who didn’t simply pass the

Secret Service’s tests.

He excelled at them.

During his classes at FLETC, Edgreen earned

the Academic Achievement Award, which

is given to one individual within each class

who has the highest cumulative grade

average. Edgreen’s was 98 percent.

“Without the classes I took at Waynesburg

University and the professors who invested

in my learning, I would not have been so

prepared for a career in law enforcement,”

said Edgreen, who majored in criminal

justice administration at Waynesburg.

Through all of the physical, mental and

intellectual challenges of the interview

process, the successful candidate must also

demonstrate the core values of the Secret

Service: justice, duty, courage, honesty and

loyalty, and above all, one must be “worthy

of trust and confidence.”

Edgreen proved that, beyond a doubt, he

is. With unwavering integrity, he remains

vigilant regardless of his task.

“There are stressful days and days that are

calm and quiet. But either way, the mission

is still the same. We are to stay vigilant no

matter how things seem. One day you are

meeting celebrities and standing with the

President, and the next you’re standing in a

deserted hallway for 12 hours,” he said.

As a part of one of the most elite law

enforcement organizations in the world, no

matter where Edgreen stands, he stands firm

in his commitment to Christ.

“My faith in Christ is the foundation to

which I model my life. My ethical decision-

making, both before this job and now on

the job, has furthered my career and has

provided me the opportunity to be a light,”

he said.

Edgreen (right) pictured with a friend at the James J. Rowley Training Center in Washington, D.C.


As chair and professor of the Department of Nursing at

Waynesburg University, Dr. Nancy Mosser has personally instructed

every traditional baccalaureate nursing student who has graduated

from Waynesburg. She came to Waynesburg University in 1986,

just in time to teach the first graduating seniors of the program.

Since then, she has imparted wisdom on a new generation of

leaders in healthcare.

With more than 32 professional presentations and a number of

peer-reviewed articles and research topics under her wing, the

accomplished nurse inspires her coworkers and students to pursue

continued education and professional development.

“I try to present or publish on an annual basis because I believe

that scholarship enhances teaching,” Mosser said. “It is also a way

to start professionally developing students as I talk to them about

the conference experience and what I learned.”

Mosser is published in many areas, including leadership, an area she

became familiar with while earning her doctor of education degree

in educational leadership studies with a minor in nursing. She also

received a master of science in nursing in primary health care with

a focus in maternal-child and family, as well as her bachelor of

science in nursing degree.

She has published best practices for preparing and developing

students for the National Council Licensure Examination for

Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), an area in which she has great

experience.

Under her direction, the Waynesburg University Baccalaureate

Nursing Program has consistently achieved 97 percent to 100

percent pass rates on the NCLEX-RN for six consecutive years.

Waynesburg University was the only baccalaureate program in the

state of Pennsylvania to achieve a 100 percent pass rate in 2012.

“We start preparing students at the sophomore level through a

combination of standardized testing, a rigorous curriculum and

excellent clinical experiences,” Mosser said. “It’s not just about

passing tests; we really care about the students and we mentor

them through the advising process. It’s a comprehensive approach

that helps to produce a Waynesburg University nursing graduate.”

EDUCATOR AT Heart


She has served on a number of state and national committees,

including the American Association of Colleges of Nursing

(AACN) Doctor of Nursing Pactice (DNP)

Roadmap Task Force, the Pennsylvania

Higher Education Nursing Schools

Association, the Southwest Regional

Medical Center Board of Trustees and

more.

Students are inspired by Mosser’s

commitment to the field of nursing

education and her genuine desire to help

students succeed.

“Dr. Mosser has a profound drive for

excellence and success,” said Melissa Paul,

a senior BSN student at Waynesburg

University. “She ensures her students are

well prepared in the clinical setting, have

abundant critical thinking skills and are

professional. Dr. Mosser invests a great deal

of time into her students to make sure we

succeed in our future professional careers.”

Mosser is constantly inspired to ensure

Waynesburg’s BSN Program is top quality

because she takes the role of a professional

nurse very seriously.

“Nurses have so much direct responsibility

for patient well-being, and the care has

become very complex,” Mosser said.

“When healthcare institutions hire

baccalaureate-prepared nurses, patient

morbidity and mortality rates significantly

decrease. The liberal education that

BSN students receive helps them to

communicate well and think critically.”

Mosser is a champion of both

baccalaureate and graduate nursing

education; she was instrumental in developing Waynesburg

University’s DNP program, from which 58 students have

graduated since its inception in 2007. At

that time, the DNP program was one of

only 25 in the United States.

“DNP students and graduates are change

agents for improving healthcare,” said

Mosser. “They use best evidence to design

system-wide projects that improve patient

care outcomes over a short period of time.

Traditional research approaches take years

to affect change.”

In 2012, she was one of only 20 nursing

deans nationwide invited to attend a

meeting with First Lady Michelle Obama

and Dr. Jill Biden about the Joining

Forces Program, an initiative designed to

educate the nation’s three million nurses,

including Waynesburg students, about the

unique health needs of service members,

veterans and their families.

Mosser has built a department of

educators who truly care for their students

and has received multiple grants and

scholarships that paved the way for critical

simulation equipment and experiences for

Waynesburg students. She has remained

committed to the well-being and

professional preparation of each and every

nursing graduate for 28 years.

“Developing and mentoring students is so

important to me. When you look back on

your career, I think you’re most surprised

by things you didn’t plan,” she said. “I

didn’t expect to impact so many students;

that’s what I’m truly passionate about. I’m

a nurse, but I’m also an educator at heart.”

Students practice a simulation scenario, which Mosser helped to create by obtaining a Pennsylvania Community and Economic Development Grant for Simulation Lab Development.


Employment of mental health counselors and substance abuse and

behavioral disorder counselors is projected to grow 29 percent and

31 percent, respectively, from 2012 to 2022 – much faster than the

average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor

Statistics (2014).

Growth is expected because more people have addiction and mental

health counseling services covered by their insurance policies.

“Waynesburg University’s Ph.D. in Counselor Education and

Supervision Program was developed based on a national need for

counselor educators,” said Dr. Scott Tracy, director of graduate

programs in counseling and assistant professor of counseling at the

University. “Government agencies and insurance companies have

come to grips with the magnitude of mental health in America.

There’s a push to have more counselors, and as a result, we need

more counselor educators.”

The Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision Program will be

available September 1 and can be completed in three years.

With an over-arching goal of preparing leaders for the field of

counseling, the Program was designed to develop students in the

Christian tradition of Waynesburg University and prepare them for

leadership roles in the counseling field.

Beginning this fall, Waynesburg University will offer a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision through its reputable Graduate and Professional Studies Program.

University’s new Ph.D. program to develop leaders in counseling


“As a University dedicated to Christian service, the founding goals

of the institution closely mimic that of the counseling profession,”

Tracy said. “Our Christian identity makes this program distinctive,

and we will be able to say the same about future graduates.”

The program is intended to prepare individuals for employment as

counselor educators in colleges and universities and as leaders in

clinical mental health counseling, addictions counseling or school

counseling.

“The Waynesburg University Ph.D. in Counselor Education

and Supervision Program provides doctoral students with the

information and skills required to carry out scholarly research,

lead organizations and create new knowledge,” said Dave Mariner,

director of program development for Graduate and Professional

Studies.

In addition to core doctoral classes in research, students will also

have experiences in college teaching and counselor supervision.

Some advanced courses in counseling practice are also offered. The

program consists of a minimum of 54 semester credits beyond

the master’s degree, a clinical practicum, a specialty practicum, an

internship, a candidacy examination and a dissertation.

With strategic curriculum developed by the fulltime counseling

faculty at the University, the Ph.D. is designed to attract experienced

professionals who hold master’s degrees and who want to become

leaders in the counseling field.

“Specifically, we’re targeting for leadership positions in community

mental health counseling, addictions counseling and school

counseling,” Tracy said.

Tracy worked with fulltime counseling faculty on the curriculum for

the Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision Program. The

team also received guidance from Mariner.

Waynesburg University master’s degree programs in clinical mental

health counseling and addiction counseling are accredited by the

American Counseling Association’s Council on Accreditation for

Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). The

School Counseling and Ph.D. Counselor Education specializations

are in the application phase of the accreditation process.

For more information, contact Dr. Scott Tracy at 724-743-2259

or [email protected].

■ ■ ■

“As a University dedicated to Christian service, the founding goals of the institution closely mimic that of the counseling profession. Our Christian identity makes this program distinctive, and we will be able to say the same about future graduates.”

■ ■ ■


When a Waynesburg University freshman first learned of an expensive treatment for a debilitating diagnosis, his friends and classmates rallied around him to raise money for the cause. Today, the junior sports management major is feeling better than ever, thanks in large part to the continuous love and support he receives from the students who help with ongoing treatment.

JUST A SCAR


When he was eight years old, R.J. Tonks developed a virus. But unlike many children who develop bacterial or viral infections, Tonks has had to live with the consequences of a simple, childhood virus for more than a decade. Instead of the virus leaving his body, it attacked his brain.

“It’s scary how fast things can be taken away from you,” Tonks said. “There are so many of us who take our God-given abilities for granted; they can be gone in a blink of an eye.”

A scar formed, which would, for many years, impair Tonks’ hand-eye coordination, mobility, speech, balance and fine motor skills. Within a few months of “recovering,” from the virus, he could barely walk.

“It was a pretty rapid decline,” Tonks said. “My body developed immunity to the steroids that doctors gave me, and I quickly found out that my hand-eye coordination was completely gone. I was too young to really understand what was happening. I just knew that there were things I couldn’t do anymore, and I didn’t have an explanation for that.”

Throughout junior and senior high school, Tonks, now a Waynesburg University junior sports management major and marketing minor, struggled to live in a body he couldn’t control. He was forced to quit sports, which he loved, and eventually became dependent on a wheel chair.

That is, until Tonks and his family found Carrick Care, an international, nonprofit organization committed to providing financial support to individuals who require neurological treatment and therapies but cannot otherwise afford them.

In November of 2012, Tonks began life-changing, week-long treatments at the Carrick Brain Center in Marietta, Ga. Since 2012, he has traveled to Georgia eight times for week-long treatments.

Today, RJ can walk with the assistance of a walker. He sits without lolling his head and he no longer sways off his seat. His

handwriting is the most legible it has been since grade school, and his speech and syntax are clear. Last semester, his G.P.A. was the highest it has ever been.

“I’m not as down on myself anymore,” Tonks said. “I know that God has a plan for me to walk again, I just don’t know when. He has been with me all along through this journey, guiding me through a dark tunnel.”

As Tonks’ balance and coordination grow better each day, a community of friendship and service also grows stronger around him. His friends band together to help Tonks

perform daily strengthening exercises, many of which require Tonks to sit passively while others move his limbs for him.

“This is a Christian University, and we believe in service to others. Students want to find a way to help their friend who is in need,” Tonks said. “I didn’t really ask anyone to help me; they all volunteered. I don’t think I would have that experience at another college.”

Before Carrick Care offered Tonks the financial assistance for full coverage of his treatments, the campus community held student-led fundraisers for Tonks to receive the treatment he needed.

“It means so much to me that my fellow students and classmates want to see me get better and see me walk around campus,” Tonks said.

But students aren’t interested in helping Tonks out of pity for his difficult situation; they simply gravitate toward his positivity and winning smile.

Erin Kern, a senior psychology major, is inspired not only by Tonks’ improvement, but also his unwavering optimism.

“He has come so far since freshman year by walking in a straighter line, having a sharper focus, and his reaction times have quickened,” Kern said. “The exercises sometimes take a while, but it is definitely worth it in the end to see how much he has improved since the beginning.”

In a personal blog post, one student called Tonks “either mad, brave, or a little of both” for attending a college known for its hilly terrain, all while doing so with a gracious attitude.

“Whenever you’re in the situation that I was, coming to a campus on the side of the hill and knowing that you’ll need a power chair, you almost have to be brave to make that decision,” Tonks said. “But I knew that the people I would be surrounding myself with and the professors and great education would outweigh any struggle. It was so worth it to come here.”

Tonks’ optimism continues to inspire countless Waynesburg University students, faculty and staff each day. Students flock to Tonks in the cafeteria; professors light up when he laughs; and strangers approach him to ask where his joy comes from, which he always attributes to God, his family and the relationships he’s built at Waynesburg.

“You know, despite the long diagnosis name, it’s just a scar,” Tonks said. “If it settled somewhere else on my brain, I might not be able to talk or breathe on my own. Things could be a lot worse than they are.”

“I’m happy.”

■ ■ ■

“You know, despite the long diagnosis name, it’s just a scar. If it settled somewhere else on my brain, I might not be able to talk or breathe on my own. Things could be a lot worse than they are.”

■ ■ ■


A select group of 50 small business owners and other key influencers were invited to the White House in February to participate in Healthcare Reform talks. Among them was Waynesburg University alumnus Mark Watson.

An Invitationto the White House


While walking through the wide hallways

of the historic building as he made his

way to his meeting location on the fourth

floor – just below Vice President Joe Biden’s

office – Mark Watson thought about the

great leaders who walked those same halls

over the years and about the decisions they

debated in each room he passed.

“There's so much rich history at the White

House and in the Eisenhower Executive

Office Building where we later met, it's hard

not to get caught up in the significance of it

all,” Watson said. “But it made

me all the more determined

to have a focused discussion

about the issues and to clearly

share thoughts and concerns

with whomever I could get an

audience.”

Eager for feedback and the

opportunity to facilitate a

meeting pertaining to health

reform issues, the White

House Business Council

hosted the meeting on the

“Economic Case for Medicaid

Expansion,” and also included

senior administration from

the Department of Health

and Human Services in the

discussion.

“This has been a hot topic in Washington

and at the state level ever since the

Supreme Court ruled on June 28, 2012, that

mandatory expansion of Medicaid under

the ACA was unconstitutional. Since that

time, President Obama’s Administration

has taken to various grass roots strategies,

ostensibly to raise awareness and stir

meaningful dialogue around the issue,”

said Watson, who received the invitation

as one who is somewhat outspoken

around healthcare reform issues and an

active participant with the Small Business

Administration.

Participating in a White House Business

Council discussion on this particular topic

was an opportunity that fit well with his

personal mission and purpose.

Watson cited his faith as the foundation

for everything he aspires to do in this life,

stating that he first and foremost seeks to

“trust God in all things,” which he relates

back to the Bible verse, Mark 10:27. “This

has proven to be the greatest challenge,

but most rewarding aspect of my life, both

personally and professionally.”

“With that said, my most prominent

single goal, professionally, is to use the full

measure of my skills and abilities to make

a positive difference in the lives of current

and future generations related to health and

wellness,” Watson said.

Drawn to Waynesburg University’s MBA

Program, partially out of a desire to explore

more deeply how he might make a larger

impact in the world, Watson’s professional

goals evolved as he progressed through the

Program. While enrolled, Watson’s interest

in business and administration deepened.

He eventually decided to forgo his original

plan of attending medical school following

the completion of his MBA and instead

started a consulting business – a move

which would, eventually, land him in the

White House.

“There are a number of

breakthroughs that have come

in my professional life since

completing my education

at Waynesburg University,

which I would relate back to

my experience in the MBA

Program,” said Watson, who

completed his MBA in Health

Systems Administration in 2007.

Watson is president and chief

executive officer of Watson

Healthcare Solutions, located

in Greensboro, N.C. Watson

Healthcare Solutions’ mission is

to build and improve healthcare

businesses to maximum

profitability and value, while

creating a favorable environment for

employees.

In addition to his MBA, Watson also holds

a Master of Physical Therapy degree from

Duquesne University and is currently

completing his Doctor of Physical Therapy

degree in Executive Practice Management

through Evidence In Motion in Louisville,

Kentucky.

■ ■ ■

“There are a number of breakthroughs that have come in my professional life since completing my education at Waynesburg University,

which I would relate back to my experience in the MBA Program.”

■ ■ ■


As students of one of Pennsylvania’s first colleges to educate women, Waynesburg University’s young women have a legacy of renowned scholarship to uphold. With significant financial assistance from the Vira I. Heinz Program for Women in Global Leadership, six will study abroad among the soaring skyscrapers of Tokyo, beautiful temples of Southern India, lush forests in Costa Rica and Peru, and an ancient village in Romania this summer.

Each year, the Vira I. Heinz Program awards scholarships to young

women from only 15 Pennsylvania higher education institutions.

Approximately three from each school are admitted into the one-

year Program. This year, Waynesburg University was granted six

scholarships rather than the traditional three. Last year, four were

chosen to participate in the Program, indicating a consistently

positive upswing in the success of Waynesburg’s women in the

Program.

Pat Bristor, associate dean of students and the Waynesburg

University coordinator of the Vira I. Heinz Program for almost 20

years, said that the young women represent the best of Waynesburg

University.

“We are pleased to have such bright young women at Waynesburg

University who are interested in the world around them,” said

Bristor. “To have six women chosen speaks to the quality of our

academics, faith integration and service opportunities.”

Collectively, the six women received more than $37,600 in

scholarship money through the Vira I. Heinz Program.

“It is so rewarding to continually watch the outstanding young

women at Waynesburg enhance their leadership abilities and

team effectiveness,” said Carol Larson, director of the Vira I. Heinz

Program. “Each year, I look forward to mentoring all the present

and past awardees from Waynesburg and to hear of their many

accomplishments.”

Cassandra Gates will travel to Costa Rica to study and volunteer

with species monitoring and trail cleaning, and Ellen Limback will

travel to Cuzco, Peru, to teach children English in a small village

school. Rebecca Shindelar will spend her summer taking online

courses and volunteering at an orphanage in Brasov, Romania.

Allyson Wernert will travel to Tokyo, Japan, to take Japanese

language classes while experiencing the culture. Caley

Blankenbuehler will teach English and mathematics to students

in Southern India and Sri Lanka, while Perretta will study mental

health in Vienna, Austria.

“I am most looking forward to the experiences and growth that will

come with the scholarship,” Gates said. “I have the chance to meet

other women who value becoming global leaders. Without the

scholarship, I would not have been able to do this.”

Upon their return, scholars attend a fall retreat where they learn to

process and reflect on their international experience. The women

As students of one of Pennsylvania’s first colleges to educate women, Waynesburg University’s

Journeys

OF A LIFETIME


are required to complete a Community Engagement Experience

(CEE) in which they must identify a need in the community and

then must work as a team to implement the project.

The two retreats and the CEE help the young women to recognize

and share cultural differences, the relationship between global

scholarship and their fields of study, career goals and thoughts

about citizenship.

The Vira I. Heinz Program has a history of developing Waynesburg

University women into passionate global advocates in business,

education, faith and science.

Gabrielle King, one of the 2013 Vira Heinz recipients and a senior

marine biology major at Waynesburg University, studied through

the Australian Wildlife, Environment and Conservation Program at

the University of New South Wales.

“I was able to gain an appreciation for the natural world through

hands-on experiences as well as in-class lectures,” King said. “This

international experience will help me achieve my career goals by

helping me better understand what it means to be a biologist.”

Rebecca Lane, a junior education major and Vira Heinz recipient

at Waynesburg University, volunteered with an orphanage for

individuals with physical and mental disabilities in Jamaica, that

summer. While there, she worked on a daily basis to help a child

with cerebral palsy learn how to walk for the first time.

“Overall, this experience has started a passion in my soul for

individuals with special needs,” Lane said.

Heidi Weaver, a 2012 Vira Heinz recipient and human services

alumna of Waynesburg University who traveled to India to build

clean water wells for communities in need, allowed the experience

to change her life.

She now works at Hope International, a large network of

microfinance institutions and savings and credit associations that

aims to alleviate poverty.

"My time in India completely changed the path of my life,

professionally and personally,” Weaver said.

“My career in international development is more fulfilling and

joy-filled than I ever imagined a job could be, and I attribute much

of this to the opportunity to live and learn abroad through the Vira

Heinz Program.”

This summer, the 2014 scholars will build their relationships

with God as they see first-hand how He blesses international

cultures with beauty, how He works through different languages to

communicate love and how He can inspire thoughtful leadership

on a summer journey.

“At Waynesburg I’ve learned a lot about what it's like to be a

Christian and I have developed a relationship with God, so I

know that He will be there with me through my whole trip,”

Blankenbuehler said.

The 2014 Waynesburg University Vira Heinz Scholars are:

• Caley Blankenbuehler, a sophomore mathematics (secondary education) major

• Cassandra Gates, a sophomore chemistry (biochemistry) major

• Ellen Limback, a junior early childhood education with special education major

• Madison Perretta, a sophomore sociology (urban studies) major

• Rebecca Shindelar, a junior human services (social sciences) major

• Allyson Wernert, a junior international culture and political science major

The Heinz Endowment supports efforts to make southwestern Pennsylvania a premier place to live and work, a center

for learning and educational excellence and a region that embraces diversity and inclusion.

CAMPUS NEWS


Waynesburg University student elected to national AMSA Board of Trustees

Isaiah Cochran, a Waynesburg University junior from Akron,

Ohio, was recently elected the pre-medical trustee for the 2014-

2015 American Medical Student Association (AMSA) Board of

Trustees. The election was held in New Orleans in March, and

the biology (pre-med) major assumed his position May 1.

As pre-medical trustee, Cochran will work directly with the

national president of AMSA. In his position, he will also work

with the five pre-medical region directors as a liaison between

the national and local levels of the organization.

Previously, Cochran served as president of the Waynesburg

Chapter of AMSA, which he initiated as a freshman. As a

sophomore, Cochran was elected one of five national pre-

medical region directors for AMSA, with the responsibility to

oversee more than 105 university and college AMSA chapters

across 12 states. During his tenure in that position, AMSA

recruited more than 3,000 new members in all five regions.

Olon joins University as CFOJohn Olon joined Waynesburg University as chief financial officer in April. Olon provides executive level direction and management oversight for financial planning, budgeting and budget analysis.

“Mr. Olon will certainly be

an asset to Waynesburg

University,” said University

President Douglas G. Lee.

“With his experience,

educational background

and strong analytical mind,

he will serve the Business

Office and University well.”

Olon brings to Waynesburg University an impressive background

as well as an enthusiasm for Christian higher education.

“I am happy to have been asked to join the Waynesburg family,”

he said. “There is a lot of excitement here, and I look forward to

being a part of it.”

With a blend of experience in both the higher education and

corporate industries, Olon most recently served as the vice

president of financial planning and analysis at Dick’s Sporting

Goods, where he directed short- and long-term forecasting,

analysis, store performance tracking, supply chain costing and

competitor comparisons to promote strategic decision making

and to develop earnings guidance.

Previously, he served in a variety of roles at the Education

Management Corporation, most recently as vice president/

assistant controller. In this role, he directed enterprise accounting

operations including general ledger, revenue, fixed assets and

financial reporting.

Olon has additional corporate experience as the manager of

corporate financial planning and analysis of ALCOA, Inc., the

world’s leading producer of aluminum, miner of bauxite and

refiner of alumina.

A certified public accountant, Olon holds a master of business

administration from Carnegie Mellon University and a bachelor’s

degree in finance from Pennsylvania State University.

He is an active member of Saints John and Paul Parish and is

involved in community fundraising committees, including active

involvement in support of the Anna Seethaler Hospital (TASH) in

Oaxaca, Mexico.

CAMPUS NEWS


Jacobs joins University as dean of institutional effectiveness and planningDr. Jamie Jacobs joined Waynesburg University as the dean of institutional effectiveness and planning in February. In her role, she provides administrative oversight for the University’s institutional effectiveness, assessment and accreditation processes.

“There is no person who could possibly

be a better fit for this position than Dr.

Jacobs,” said Dr. Jacquelyn Core, provost

and vice president for academic affairs at

Waynesburg University. “She will play an

integral role in the future of our institution,

and the excitement which has followed her

arrival has been palpable.”

Dr. Jacobs will also be responsible for data

management, grant writing, institutional

documents, institutional reporting and

supporting various institutional objectives.

“I am very excited to contribute to the

continued excellence of Waynesburg

University and am already working with

faculty and staff on several exciting

projects,” said Dr. Jacobs. “I feel very blessed

to have been given this opportunity to

be a part of the Waynesburg University

community.”

With experience in administrative roles

and as a faculty member, Dr. Jacobs

brings to Waynesburg University a diverse

background as well as an enthusiasm for

Christian higher education.

Prior to joining Waynesburg University,

Dr. Jacobs served in various roles at West

Virginia University (WVU), most recently

as the director of the Faculty and Staff

Assistance Program and an assistant

professor in the Department of Behavioral

Medicine and Psychiatry. As the director of

the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program,

Jacobs was responsible for program

operations and assessment. She also assisted

with programmatic accreditation, evaluated

services and recommended evidence-based

practices.

Previously at WVU, Dr. Jacobs worked as

a clinical therapist for the Department of

Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry and an

assistant professor for the Department of

Political Science.

WVU repeatedly recognized Dr. Jacobs

for her exceptional work as an educator.

Among her many awards are the Eberly

College of Arts and Sciences Outstanding

Teacher Award (2003), the Golden

Apple Outstanding Teacher (2002) and

the Department of Political Science

Outstanding Teacher Award (2002).

Published extensively, Dr. Jacobs’ recent

CAMPUS NEWS


titles include “NGOS, the European Union and the Case of the

Environment,” (with Anthony Zito) in Transition Activism in the

UN and EU: A Comparative Study and “Civil Society in Argentina:

Opportunities and Challenges for National and Transnational

Organisation,” (with Martin Maldonado) in the Journal of Latin

American Studies.

Dr. Jacobs has presented at a wide range of conferences, including

the National Association of Social Workers Spring Continuing

Education Conference in Charleston, W.Va., in 2013.

She holds a Ph.D. and a master’s degree, both in political science

from the University of Pittsburgh, a master’s degree in counseling

from WVU and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida.

Active in her community, Dr. Jacobs currently serves as the president

of the Board of Directors for the Morgantown Dog Owners Group

and on the Advisory Panel for City of Morgantown dog parks. Since

2011, she has been an associate advisor of Venturing Crew 21.

Venturing, a co-ed youth development program of the Boy Scouts

of America for men and women aged 14 through 20, provides

positive experiences to help young people mature and to prepare

them to become responsible and caring leaders.

University welcomes two trustees James R. Lowe Jr. and Rev. Dr. Donald P. Wilson were reelected to the Waynesburg University Board of Trustees during the February 2014 board meeting. Lowe previously served on the University’s Board of Trustees

from 1972 until 1995. Rev. Wilson served as a member of the

University’s Board of Trustees almost every year since 2000 and

recently as the interim director of Christian life at Waynesburg

University.

Both began their new terms in May 2014.

Lowe graduated from Waynesburg College in 1963 with a

Bachelor of Arts degree in social studies. In September of that

year, he joined the IBM Corporation in Pittsburgh. Until his

retirement from IBM 30 years later, Lowe was tasked with the

worldwide responsibility of identifying and resolving IBM product

deficiencies for five IBM media sectors.

In addition to his many honors, Lowe served as IBM’s

representative on President Jimmy Carter’s National Taskforce on

Ridesharing in 1979.

After retiring from IBM in 1993, Lowe became project director

of the Taxation and Revenue Information Management System

(TRIMS). He worked on a project to develop a fourth generation

language technology tax and revenue system for the state of New

Mexico.

In 1999, Lowe rejoined IBM as a member of a special group

of IBM retirees devoted to recruiting new employees from

acquisitions and outsourcing opportunities.

Rev. Wilson earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology in 1964 from

Waynesburg University and a Master of Divinity degree from

Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.

In 1992, Waynesburg College awarded Rev. Wilson an

honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree for his professional

achievements, his community service activities and his significant

leadership and involvement with the University. He also served

on the University’s Alumni Council from 1991 to 1999.

Rev. Wilson served for more than 30 years as the pastor of

Lebanon United Presbyterian in West Middlesex, Pa. He fulfilled

interim appointments as the Executive Presbyter of Washington

Presbytery and pastor of First Baptist Church of Waynesburg, First

Presbyterian Church of Waynesburg and Hewitt Presbyterian

Church in Rices Landing.

For more than 20 years, Rev. Wilson served the West Middlesex

Area School Board and has acted as a consultant to the County

Courts in Youth Services for a number of years.

CAMPUS NEWS


University presents donation to Waynesburg-Franklin Township Volunteer Fire CompanyWaynesburg University presented the Waynesburg-Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Company with a $10,000 check, the second of five installments totaling $50,000, to offset the $417,000 cost of the company’s 2013 Sutphen Rescue Pumper fire engine.

This donation, along with the first, was given in memory of Robert W. Fox, a member of the Waynesburg-Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Company from 1948 to 2011, who died May 15, 2012, at the age of 83. Remarkably, Fox was still actively answering fire calls until 2009.

Fox served in many leadership capacities within the fire company during his 62-year tenure, including president for 28 years. His father was a member of the company from 1941 to 1965, and Robert’s four sons and four of his grandsons are active members of the fire company.

Waynesburg University President Douglas G. Lee, who served as a member of the Waynesburg-Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Company for nine years, emphasized the importance of contributing to the long-term safety of the community.

“For many years, the Waynesburg-Franklin Township Volunteer Fire Company has been a key component of the community’s safety,” said Lee. “As a former member, I am proud Waynesburg University can help support this vital service to the community.”

This donation to the fire company from Waynesburg University continues the University’s long-standing support of fire safety in the community. Previously, the University had presented the company with $50,000 for the purchase of the Fire Simulation Training Trailer and $30,000 towards a new fire truck from 2005 to 2007.

University presents donation to Waynesburg Borough Police Canine Fund

Waynesburg University presented the

Waynesburg Borough Police Department with a

$1,000 check for the Department’s Canine Fund

January 23 to aid in the purchase of equipment

and additional training for a recently acquired

police dog.

Asa Winters, one of the Department’s patrolmen,

recently led an effort to obtain and train a police

dog for the department. A 3-year-old German

Shepherd, Izzy, was acquired by Winters in March

2013 and was officially hired by the Department

in December. Winters, with the help of other local

police dog handlers, has been training Izzy to aid

in the Department’s law enforcement efforts.

The dog will be able to assist officers in everything

from a drug search of a vehicle or a home to the

tracking of a missing person or a suspect of a

crime.

Izzy has been certified through the North

American Police Work Dog Association in a

number of areas of police work and has been

trained in tracking and narcotics detection as well

as article, area and building searches.

CAMPUS NEWS


Pennsylvania Business Central selects Lee for “Top 100 People”

Douglas G. Lee, President of Waynesburg University, was recently named to The Pennsylvania Business Central’s Top 100 People list of 2013.

According to the Pennsylvania Business Central, the Top 100 People

list includes top executives from some of the most successful

companies, along with business people from all levels who have

made a major impact in their community and business-to-business

world throughout the past year.

“I am honored to be recognized by The Pennsylvania Business

Central in this way,” Lee said. “In accordance with our mission,

Waynesburg University has always placed high significance on

serving the local community as well as contributing to the growth

and development of the region.”

Lee was elected President of Waynesburg University by the Board of

Trustees in September 2012 and took office July 1, 2013. He joined

Waynesburg University as Executive Vice President in October

2009.

Prior to joining Waynesburg, Lee was a partner in the law firm of

Steptoe and Johnson, PLLC where he was a practice group leader in

the Labor and Employment Department of the firm. He was active

at Waynesburg University, being instrumental in the formation of

the University’s Alumni Council and serving as its first President.

He later served as a member of the Board of Trustees in a variety

of leadership roles including Chair of the Academic Matters

Committee and as Board Secretary.

He has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America®, having

spoken and written extensively on Workers Compensation and

Labor and employment law topics.

Lee is an Elder in the Presbyterian Church, served on the Greene

County Planning Commission and is a graduate of Leadership West

Virginia. He is an Eagle Scout and has served on the Executive Board

for the Mountaineer Area Council Boy Scouts of America. He has

also served on the Board of Directors for the Union Rescue Mission

in Fairmont, W.Va., the Harrison County Bar Association Board of

Directors, the Westminster Foundation of West Virginia, and the

Howe Cemetery Board. He was a volunteer fireman for more than

13 years.

Lee holds a Juris Doctorate from West Virginia University and

a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from

Waynesburg University.

Pennsylvania Business Central, based in State College, is a biweekly

business publication serving a sixteen-county region in central

Pennsylvania.

Scholarly Clips are now available online!

Visit www.waynesburg.edu/achievements to view a collection of scholarly achievements recently made by faculty, staff and students.

CAMPUS NEWS


Waynesburg counseling student achieves top score on NCE

Students in Waynesburg University’s Master of Arts

in Counseling Program achieved a milestone during

the most recent National Counselor Examination

for Licensure and Certification (NCE), collectively

scoring above the national average for accredited

counseling programs. One Waynesburg University

student obtained the top national score, an honor

shared with the top 5 percent of examinees

nationwide.

More than 4,000 graduate counselors sat for

the exam. The NCE is used for two purposes:

national counselor certification and state counselor

licensure. The purpose of the NCE is to assess

knowledge, skills and abilities viewed as important

for providing effective counseling services.

Satisfactory performance on the NCE is one of the

criteria used by the National Board for Certified

Counselors to identify professionals who may be

eligible to become National Certified Counselors.

Waynesburg University’s Master of Arts in

Counseling Program is accredited by the Council

for Accreditation of Counseling and Related

Educational Programs (CACREP). CACREP is an

independent agency recognized by the Council for

Higher Education Accreditation to accredit master’s

degree and doctoral programs in counseling.

To achieve accreditation, programs voluntarily

submit a self-study that is reviewed against the

CACREP Standards by counselors and counselor

educators to ensure that students receive a quality

educational experience.

Department of Business Administration granted candidacy for accreditation status The Department of Business Administration at Waynesburg University has

been awarded the status of Candidate for Accreditation by the International

Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE). The Department

of Business Administration has affirmed its commitment to excellence in

business education and is eligible to undergo an accreditation review of its

business programs.

At its meeting in San Diego, Calif., April 7, through April 8, 2014, the

IACBE Board of Commissioners determined the Department of Business

Administration at Waynesburg University has developed an appropriate

outcome assessment plan; has satisfied candidacy requirements relating to

its business programs, resources and operational processes; and is eligible to

undergo an accreditation review.

MBA Program offers new concentration in project management Beginning in the fall of 2014, Waynesburg University will offer a new

concentration, project management, within its Master of Business

Administration (MBA) Program.

The project management concentration joins six other MBA degree options

including applied business, energy management, finance, human resources/

leadership, health systems administration and market development.

Students pursuing an MBA with a focus in project management will

study project management software, practice portfolio management

principles, create a risk management plan and prepare to sit for the Project

Management Professional (PMP) certification.

For more information, contact Janice Crile at 724-743-2269 or

[email protected].

CAMPUS NEWS


Paul Carrol BinkleyAcclaimed Nashville guitarist Guitarist, composer and musical theatre director Paul Carrol Binkley performed on campus February 20. A highly regarded Nashville, Tenn., musician, Binkley is known for his abilities as an acoustic guitarist, performing in live shows and recordings for Music City acts. He has backed performers such as country group Alabama, but also records regularly as a solo artist. He has played on television programs including the Grand Ole Opry, Church Street Station and Nashville Now.

Andrew GinsbergVice president and director of advancement at InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USAWaynesburg University’s Christ and Culture Lecture Series featured Andrew Gins-berg in a three-part event April 14 through April 15, during which he shared his experiences as a Jewish follower of Christ and addressed many of the issues he faced as a Christian in the healthcare industry. Ginsberg serves as the vice president and director of advancement at InterVarsity Christian Fellowship/USA, a nationwide college ministry that establishes and advances witnessing communities of students and faculty.

Dr. Morris Harper Executive vice president, chief medical officer and chairman of the advisory board for Correctional TeleCare SolutionsDr. Morris Harper, executive vice president, chief medical officer and chairman of the advisory board for Correctional TeleCare Solutions (CTS) in Pittsburgh, served as the speaker for Waynesburg University’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day Convocation January 20. Harper, a frequent lecturer on HIV and AIDS, among other topics, directed the statewide expansion of telemedicine HIV/AIDS care throughout the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections.

Guest Lecturers & Performers

CAMPUS NEWS


Dr. Jordan KassalowFounder and CEO of VisionSpringWaynesburg University’s DeVito Lecture Series hosted Dr. Jordan Kassalow’s lecture “Social Entrepreneurship: How to Change the World” February 25, during which Kas-salow shared the many challenges one encounters in finding purpose, and once found, translating that into action and impact. Kassalow is the founder and CEO of Vision-Spring, a social enterprise that allows people in developing countries access to afford-able quality eyeglasses. VisionSpring has served more than one million customers through a network of 9,000 female vision entrepreneurs in more than 18 countries.

Marilyn Chandler McEntyreProfessor at UC Davis and the UC Berkeley-UCSF Joint Medical ProgramMarilyn Chandler McEntyre, poet and advocate of the well-being of language, served as Waynesburg University’s b.f. maiz Lecturer January 22. She has a profound interest in the relationship between words and painting and is a spokesperson for the idea of medicine and poetry. McEntyre teaches at the University of California Berkeley and the University of California at San Francisco Joint Medical Program.

Congressman Tim MurphyWaynesburg University hosted guest speaker Congressman Tim Murphy April 23. Murphy spoke on mental health especially in relation to gun violence, post-traumatic stress syndrome for veterans and his role on the House Energy and Commerce Committee as Chairman of Oversight and Investigations. Murphy relies on his three decades as a psychologist to advocate for meaningful reforms in the U.S. healthcare system. As one of only a handful of members of Congress with a background in healthcare, he quickly established himself as a leader on the issue.

Jonathan WatermanWriter and photographer Waynesburg University hosted Jonathan Waterman as the Glenn A. & Jane L. Crosby Lecture Series speaker March 4. Waterman’s lecture, “Plastic Garbage Patch,” was based on his 2,500-mile sailing journey from San Diego to Honolulu with 37 re-searchers. During this voyage, Waterman worked as the ship journalist of the 132-foot brigantine Robert C. Seamans, studying the amount of plastic and Japanese tsunami debris in the water.


futurethe

at Waynesburg University!

By making an unrestricted gift to the Fund for Waynesburg, you support educational programs and operational needs of the University as well as financial aid for students.

To make your gift, VISIT waynesburg.edu/giving or CALL the O�ce of Institutional Advancement at 724.852.3378.

You can

futurethe

You canshape

CAMPUS NEWS


at Waynesburg University!

By making an unrestricted gift to the Fund for Waynesburg, you support educational programs and operational needs of the University as well as financial aid for students.

To make your gift, waynesburg.edu/giving or CALL the O�ce of Institutional Advancement at 724.852.3378.

You can

Waynesburg’s PRSSA Chapter receives Star Chapter Award

Waynesburg University’s chapter of the Public Relations Student

Society of America (PRSSA) was awarded the Star Chapter Award

for meeting specific chapter and professional development goals.

The chapter was one of 27 from around the country honored with

the prestigious award.

“This is a huge step for us at Waynesburg PRSSA,” said Molly

Winters, a junior public relations major and the president of

Waynesburg’s chapter of PRSSA. “We are up to par with some of

the best chapters around the country.”

A chapter must meet eight of the 10 Star Chapter requirements to

earn the national award.

“The stars or requirements range from participating in Ethics

Month, applying for national scholarships and holding an annual

event,” said Winters. “We actually completed all 10 stars.”

In just its fourth year of existence, Waynesburg’s chapter of PRSSA

is one of 328 other schools from around the country nationally

associated with PRSSA, the student counterpart to the Public

Relations Society of America (PRSA).

“To do it in three years and to do it in a chapter with

approximately 25 dues-paying members, I think is an extraordinary

accomplishment,” said Richard Krause, the adviser for Waynesburg’s

chapter of PRSSA and assistant professor and chair of the

Department of Communication. “It speaks volumes to the

dedication of our students.”

Students travel locally and abroad for service trips

More than 215 students and 20 faculty and staff members served others both domestically and abroad during the 2013-2014 academic year. The University offered 14 service mission trips covering a variety of academic and professional interests that give students the opportunity to serve the Greene County community and beyond.

Service Trips

• Barnabas Ministries – Sebis, Romania

• Center for Student Missions – Nashville, Tenn.

• Greene County Pa. Immersion – Greene County, Pa.

• Habitat for Humanity – Concord, N.C.

• Habitat for Humanity – Greene County, Pa.

• Hurricane Sandy Relief – Highland Park, N.J.

• John Perkins Foundation – Jackson, Miss.

• Medical Mission Trip – Nassau, Bahamas

• Nutritional Center – Patzun, Guatemala

• Strong Missions – Carillos, Costa Rica

• The Pittsburgh Project – Pittsburgh, Pa.

• Trans World Radio – Bonaire, special municipality of the

Netherlands

• Urban Promise – Camden, N.J.

• Whitefields Foundation – Hato Mayor, Dominican

Republic

photo credit: Zach DiBeradin

CAMPUS NEWS


Student newspaper named regional winner Waynesburg University’s student newspaper, the Yellow Jacket, was recently named a regional winner in the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) annual awards contest for the Best All-Around Non-Daily Student Newspaper category.

“The SPJ awards are the top of the line for student journalism

contests, and this category is akin to a best in show award that

judges the entire publication, so we are quite excited,” said Brandon

Szuminsky, instructor of communication at Waynesburg University

and faculty adviser to the Yellow Jacket.

Nick Farrell, a senior communication (sports broadcasting/sports

information) major and the executive editor of the Yellow Jacket,

took home two regional awards for General News Reporting.

The awards recognize his article on past Waynesburg University

president A.B. Miller’s diary returning to campus and his series on

the University’s student senate changes.

“Having the piece on Miller’s diary recognized was a gratifying

experience for me, especially since I found out about the award a

few weeks before President Lee’s inauguration and at a time when

the campus community is greatly in touch with its history,” Farrell

said.

While the Yellow Jacket typically wins at least one award from SPJ

each year, this is the first time it has won an SPJ Best All-Around

award in nearly a decade. The Yellow Jacket won SPJ All-Around

awards in both 2004 and 2005, a time when Szuminsky, then a

student at Waynesburg University, was editor of the paper.

WCTV selected a winner in the 35th annual Telly AwardsWCTV, the Waynesburg University student television station,

recently earned a bronze award from the 35th annual Telly Awards

for its piece titled “The Buzz: November 11, 2013.”

Waynesburg’s piece stood out among nearly 12,000 entries from all

50 states and numerous countries.

“The Buzz” is a show that focuses on feature stories in Waynesburg,

the nation and the entertainment world. It began in the fall of

2013 under the direction of Kelly Witas, a 2014 communication

(electronic media) alumna and former general manager of WCTV.

The winning episode of “The Buzz” featured stories about a

10-year-old boy who suffers from Aspergers, the Boston Red

Sox winning the Major League Baseball championship and the

Waynesburg University fall play.

Waynesburg University Alumni

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STAY IN TOUCH WITH YOUR ALMA MATERConnect with former classmates online and stay up-to-date with alumni events, campus news and more!

CAMPUS NEWS


University faculty members honored with emeritus status and Lucas-Hathaway Teaching Excellence AwardsOne Waynesburg University faculty member was honored with the title of professor emeritus and three others received the University’s 2014 Lucas-Hathaway Teaching Excellence Awards during the University’s Chapel Service in Roberts Chapel April 29.

On behalf of the University, President Douglas G. Lee conferred

upon Dr. Robert LaCount, professor of chemistry, the title of

professor emeritus. LaCount retired from his full-time position

in August 2013. He joined the University in 1965, and during

his 49 years of service to the University, he eagerly incorporated

the education of Waynesburg University students into his

groundbreaking research.

Dr. Gordon McClung, professor of marketing and chair of the

University’s Department of Business Administration, received the

2014 Lucas-Hathaway Teaching Excellence Award for a faculty

member with a history of teaching excellence.

Dr. McClung, who joined the University in 2007, holds a Ph.D.

from the University of Pittsburgh as well as a bachelor of science in

business administration and a master of business administration

from West Virginia University.

Dr. Chad Sherman, assistant professor of communication, received

the 2014 Lucas-Hathaway Teaching Excellence Award for a faculty

member with a relatively recent history of teaching excellence.

He joined the University in 2011 and holds a bachelor’s

degree, master’s degree and a Ph.D. from Indiana University of

Pennsylvania.

Carol Guthrie received the 2014 Lucas-Hathaway Teaching

Excellence Award for a non-full-time faculty member. Guthrie is a

lecturer of mathematics.

Guthrie joined the University in 2009 and holds a bachelor’s degree

in mathematics and a master of education in mathematics and

computer science from California University of Pennsylvania.

The Lucas-Hathaway Charitable Trust has established an endowed

fund that provides two annual teaching excellence awards for

full-time faculty members and one award for a part-time faculty

member. Faculty members were nominated by students, faculty or

alumni. Each recipient of the Lucas-Hathaway Award for Teaching

Excellence received a commemorative plaque and a $1,200 award.

The Trust is funded by J. Richard Lucas and C. Joan Hathaway Lucas,

members of the class of 1950.

CAMPUS NEWS


Stover Scholars visit major political and legal leaders in Washington, D.C.During the Stover Scholars whirlwind tour of Washington, D.C., this fall, the 21 undergraduates had sessions with U.S. Senator Robert Casey; Associate U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia; National Public Radio Correspondent Mara Liasson; Georgetown University Law Center Professor Charles F. Abernathy; Institute for Justice constitutional litigator Scott Bullock; former Congressman David McIntosh; and political activist Wesley Goodman.

“The Stover Scholars met with major players in the Washington,

D.C., political scene and critically engaged with them in meaningful

and substantive constitutional discussions,” said Dr. Lawrence

M. Stratton, director of the Stover Center for Constitutional

Studies and Moral Leadership and assistant professor of ethics

and constitutional law. “The political and legal leaders we visited

thoroughly appreciated the Stover Scholars’ positive spirit.”

Just after voting on the Senate

floor on two cloture votes,

Senator Casey stressed his

ongoing quest to overcome

partisanship and encouraged

the students to pursue lives

of public service. Justice

Scalia told the students that

America is free because of the

U.S. Constitution’s structural

protections of checks and

balances and the Separation

of Powers even more so than

the Bill of Rights.

At the new headquarters of National Public Radio, Mara Liasson

described her career path in radio journalism and emphasized

nurturing the skill of writing succinctly and clearly, which she

mastered by providing five minute news summaries on NPR for

over a decade. She also assessed America’s current state of political

polarization and the need for leaders to bring America together.

The students also participated in a Civil Procedure class at

Georgetown University Law Center taught by constitutional scholar

Charles F. Abernathy, who later provided insights to the students

about pursuing legal careers. Former Congressman, White House

lawyer and Mayer Brown Partner David McIntosh, a co-Founder

of the Federalist Society, urged the students to take up the mantle

of leadership to preserve the U.S. Constitution’s values, which he

views as the best hope for freedom in the world. Scott Bullock, the

lead constitutional litigator in the 2005 U.S. Supreme Court case,

Kelo v. New London, described his public interest legal practice

of strategically enhancing

property rights protections.

Wesley Goodman, leader of the

Conservative Action Project,

encouraged the Stover Scholars

to “talk about the American

dream again” as they pursue

public leadership. The students

also visited the U.S. Senate

Gallery and toured both the

Library of Congress and U.S.

Supreme Court.

“The D.C. trip was a great

experience because we were

able to meet those in the Nation’s Capital who you hear and read

about. Meeting Senator Casey, Justice Scalia, NPR’s Mara Liasson,

constitutional lawyer Scott Bullock, and many more political

leaders put faces to names. It was fascinating to pick their brains,”

said Andrew Stanko, freshman sports broadcasting major from

Lewisburg, Pa.

Waynesburg University’s Stover Center for Constitutional Studies

and Moral Leadership explores national and international issues

in the context of constitutional law and Christian ethics with the

objective of creatively transforming the polis.

Stover Scholars with U.S. Senator Robert Casey

CAMPUS NEWS


Stover Center hosts joint lecture “Washington, D.C. Behind the Veil: Reflections on both the Constitution and Federal Communications Law”Georgetown University law professor Charles F. Abernathy and former federal communications commissioner Kathleen Quinn Abernathy led a lecture titled, “Washington, D.C. Behind the Veil: Reflections on both the Constitution and Federal Communications Law,” as part of Waynesburg University’s Stover Center for Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership Lecture Series April 9.

According to Dr. Lawrence M. Stratton, director of Waynesburg University’s Stover Center for

Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership and assistant professor of ethics and constitutional law, the

Stover Center was privileged to welcome the Abernathys to Waynesburg University as “stellar” examples

of American political, intellectual and professional leadership.

Kathleen Quinn Abernathy was appointed by President George W. Bush to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in 2001 and

confirmed unanimously by the U.S. Senate. She shaped American communications law regarding broadband communications, broadcast,

cable, satellite and wireless both on the FCC and as a Washington, D.C., lawyer. She is currently executive vice president of external affairs

at Frontier Communications Corporation.

Charles F. Abernathy, professor of Law at Georgetown University Law Center, is the author of several books and articles including the first

modern case book on federal civil rights law, “Civil Rights and Constitutional Litigation,” and the premier introduction to the American

legal system for international lawyers, “Law in the United States.”

Stover Scholars Visit Pittsburgh Mayor Peduto, Judges Hornak and Flaherty and the Imani Christian AcademyWaynesburg University’s Stover Scholars met with Pittsburgh

Mayor William Peduto, Federal District Judge Mark Hornak,

Pennsylvania Court of Common Pleas Judge Thomas Flaherty,

First Presbyterian Church of Pittsburgh Senior Pastor Tom Hall,

and visited the Imani Christian Academy April 25.

Mayor Peduto gave the Stover Scholars a tour of Pittsburgh’s

mayoral suite and the city council meeting room and laid out

his vision for Pittsburgh’s future. Judges Hornak and Flaherty

both provided insights into the operation of the American legal

system in the quest for justice.

The students also toured the Imani Christian Academy and

heard the school’s principal, Terri L. Ayers, discuss the inner-

city school’s determination to help students discern their own

divinely inspired purpose.

The senior Stover Scholars were then honored at a Duquesne

Club Dinner, which featured an address by Rev. Hall, who

reflected upon his pilgrimage of faith from his thirty-year career

as an Air Force Colonel before becoming a Presbyterian minister.


The Waynesburg University athletic programs produced a number

of memorable experiences for both themselves and their fans during

the 2013-14 school year. The Yellow Jacket men’s and women’s

teams combined for seven seasons with .500 overall winning

percentages or better and another Presidents’ Athletic Conference

(PAC) title for one of the school’s most successful programs.

FALL 2013

Once September rolled around, many

wondered how the Yellow Jacket football

team would follow up its co-PAC

championship from 2012. Though

Waynesburg was unable to successfully

defend its title, it recorded an eighth-

straight season with a .500 record or

better (7-4) and qualified for an Eastern

Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC)

bowl game for a third-straight season. The

Jackets battled Brockport (N.Y.) State in

the ECAC Northwest Bowl.

The high-powered Waynesburg offense

was led by first-team All-PAC quarterback

Carter Hill, who etched his named in the

Yellow Jacket record book after posting

some truly prodigious numbers. The

junior set new single-season records for

passing yardage (3,102), touchdown

passes (28), pass completions (292) and

pass attempts (473). The Columbiana,

Ohio, native was a four-time Corvias

ECAC Division III Southwest Offensive

Player of the Week and a two-time PAC

Offensive Player of the Week. He was also

lauded as a third-team member of the

D3football.com 2013 All-South Region

Team.

On the other side of the line of

scrimmage, senior defensive end Brandon

Fedorka proved to be one of the most disruptive forces in all of

Division III. Fedorka put together a fantastic final season on the

gridiron. He set new personal bests with 67 total tackles (46 solo

stops), 11.5 sacks and 21.5 tackles for loss. He showed off his

diverse skill set with six pass breakups, three forced fumbles and

three fumble recoveries. Those numbers earned him first-team

All-PAC honors, PAC Defensive Player of the Year applause and

first-team D3football.com 2013 All-South Region recognition. The

Clinton, Pa., native wrapped up his award haul by being named to

the prestigious Associated Press Little All-American Team, which

recognizes the top players from NCAA Division II and Division III, as

well as the NAIA.

Hill and Fedorka led a group of five first-

team All-PAC honorees that included

senior safety Bryan Gary, who became a

rare four-time first-team all-conference

selection after leading the team in total

tackles (90). Waynesburg also saw four of

its own lauded as second-team honorees,

and nine picked up honorable mention

All-PAC applause.

Both the Waynesburg men’s and

women’s soccer teams stayed in playoff

contention throughout their respective

seasons. Unfortunately, both squads

came up painfully short of qualifying for

their respective postseasons. The Yellow

Jackets men finished one-half game

out of the fourth-and-final playoff spot

after going 3-3-2 in PAC play, while the

Jacket women were tied for fourth in the

conference at 5-3-1, but missed out on

the postseason due to a tie-breaker.

The Orange and Black men were led

by senior Tim Fields, who was named

first-team All-PAC after firing in a team-

high eight goals and posting 19 total

points. Fields was also listed on the 2013

NSCAA/Continental Tire NCAA Division

III Men's All-Great Lakes Region third-

team squad.

Senior Susie Godwin led a trio of

women’s soccer standouts after drilling four goals and adding an

assist for nine total points. Like Fields, she found her way onto the

2013 NSCAA/Continental Tire NCAA Division III Women's All-

Great Lakes Region third team.

Second-year head coach Carl Griffiths, who led both teams in 2013,

SPORTS UPDATE


SPORTS UPDATE

was honored as the PAC Men’s

Soccer Coach of the Year after guiding

his squad to a 10-4-3 overall mark. He

also led the Jacket women to an 8-8-1

season record.

The Waynesburg men’s and women’s

cross country teams both enjoyed

high levels of success in 2013. The

Yellow Jacket men made team

history when it won the Chatham

University Invitational, which is

believed to be the program’s first

team championship in modern

history. They followed that up with

a third-place showing at the PAC

championships, placing behind only

traditional powerhouse Grove City

and four-time defending champion

Saint Vincent. Sophomore Ben

McAuley and senior Jonathan Blatt

were honored as second-team All-

PAC picks after finishing in ninth and

13th place, respectively.

The Jacket women ran to one of their

finest seasons in recent memory.

Under the guidance of head coach

Chris Hardie, Waynesburg won

both its home invitational and the

Chatham Invitational, while adding

third-place performances at two other

regular season meets. The Orange

and Black carried that regular season

success over into the conference

championships, where Waynesburg

took second out of 10 teams. The

Jackets were led by the freshman twin

sisters Emily and Katie Latimer, who both earned second-team All-

PAC distinction after placing eighth and 10th, respectively.

Under the guidance of 16th-year head coach Ron Christman,

the Waynesburg women’s tennis team had one of its best regular

seasons in recent memory. The Yellow Jackets went 11-4 overall,

which features the program’s highest win total since before 2003.

The Jackets placed fifth at the annual PAC Championships.

Moving inside to the volleyball

court, the Yellow Jackets were led by

sophomore setter Jessica Dorazio,

who earned honorable mention

All-PAC accolades after leading the

Orange and Black in digs per set

(4.94) and service aces (26). Dorazio’s

efforts highlighted Waynesburg’s 7-23

season.

WINTER 2013-14

The Yellow Jacket athletic scene really

heated up as the temperatures outside

the newly renovated Rudy Marisa

Fieldhouse dropped during weeks

of sub-freezing temperatures and

seemly relentless snowfall. All three

winter programs enjoyed seasons

to remember on the newly installed

hardwood floor of their home

gymnasium.

It was business as usual for the

Waynesburg wrestling team, which

hosted and won the 2014 PAC

Wrestling Championships. The

victory, which featured four individual

champions, was the Jackets’ fourth

at the event over the past five

years. Freshman Filippo Crivelli

(133 pounds), junior Jake Vitolo

(141), senior Luke Lohr (149) and

sophomore Greg Kumer (285) all

won their respective weight classes to

power the win. Sixth-year head coach

Ron Headlee was named PAC Coach

of the Year for a fourth time.

As satisfying as a fourth conference title trophy was to the Jackets,

their biggest highlights were still to come as the postseason wore

on. For a second-straight year, Waynesburg qualified three of its

own to compete in the NCAA Division III National Wrestling

Championships, as Lohr, senior Cameron Fine (184) and senior

Anthony Bonaventura (174) made the trip to Cedar Rapids, Iowa,


SPORTS UPDATE

for the event. Bonaventura made program

history by upsetting the number-two and

number-three wrestlers in his weight class to

become the Yellow Jacket to wrestle for an

NCAA Division III national title. Bonaventura

wound up taking home the silver medal at

174 pounds.

As a team, the Jackets won the most dual

matches in recorded program history after

putting together a 15-6 overall record.

Speaking of record-setting win totals,

Bonaventura’s 42-5 overall mark features the

most individual wins in recorded program

history.

Moving from the mats to the court, sixth-

year head coach Sam Jones continued to

build upon his ever-growing legacy of success

with the Waynesburg women’s basketball

team by leading the Yellow Jackets to their

fourth-straight winning season (15-12).

Win number 13 was particularly sweet for

Jones, as it moved him into first place on the

program’s list for wins by a head coach (85).

The Jackets advanced to the semifinal round

of the PAC Championships, where they fell

to Thomas More, which was ranked number

one in the country by the end of the regular

season. However, Waynesburg scored the

most points of anyone the Saints faced in

2014 during the 106-88 setback.

Even with all of the wins and accolades from their fellow winter

squads, no team seemed to capture the attention of the campus

community like the resurgent men’s basketball program. Under the

guidance of 2014 PAC Men’s Basketball Coach of the Year Mark

Christner, the Yellow Jackets posted their first overall winning record

(15-12) since the 2005-06 campaign. The achievements continued

to be earned, as the Orange and Black hosted and won its first PAC

quarterfinal matchup since the 2005-06 season and qualified for an

ECAC tournament (Southwest) for the first time since 1998.

SPRING 2014

Perhaps the biggest obstacle faced by

Waynesburg’s eight spring programs was

the cold, snowy weather that persisted well

into the month of April. However, by the

time May came around, the various Jacket

coaching staffs managed to put together

quality seasons of work before graduation.

Under the guidance of second-year head

coach Maria Shepas, the women’s lacrosse

team set a new program record for wins in a

season by going 3-9 in the 2014. The team’s

third win came against fellow PAC member

Washington & Jefferson, which marked

the first time the Yellow Jackets defeated a

conference rival in their seven-year history.

New individual standards of success were

also established by the standout senior Toria

Shepherd. Not only did she become the

all-time team leader in career goals (93) and

total points (115), but her 34 goals this past

spring are the most ever tallied in a single

season by a Jacket player.

Though the Waynesburg softball team didn’t

win as many games as it would have liked

during a 10-22 season (6-12 in PAC play),

there were a few definite highlights for the

squad, which was led by sixth-year head

coach Lou Giachetti. The Jackets pulled one

of the biggest upsets of any team in the

conference when they upset Thomas More

4-3 in a 12-inning thriller that gave the then 6-0 Saints their first

PAC loss of the season. Waynesburg also put together a fine sendoff

for its seniors during the last home doubleheader of 2014. The

home team swept visiting Chatham by the final scores of 1-0 and

5-1.

The Waynesburg golf teams were invigorated by some very

successful new faces that made immediate impacts on their

respective squads. The Yellow Jacket men were led by first-year

junior Tyler Tracy, who was the team’s lowest scorer at every one

of its six spring events. Tracy earned honorable mention All-PAC

laurels at the league’s spring championships. The Waynesburg


SPORTS UPDATE

women, who already

boasted one of the top

competitors in the PAC,

senior Madison Presto,

added freshman Paige Lane

to its ranks. Presto was

lauded as a second-team

all-conference pick, while

Lane played well enough

for honorable mention

accolades.

After experiencing its

share of struggles during

a 3-8 regular season, the

Waynesburg men’s tennis

team found its groove at

the right time and won its

final two matches of the

2014 campaign. Led by

Christman, the Yellow Jackets rode that momentum into the annual

PAC Championships and placed fourth at the event after finishing

the regular season in seventh place.

The Jackets were led by freshman Timothy Harris and junior Philip

Littlejohn, who took second place at second and third singles,

respectively. Harris added another silver medal performance by

teaming up with junior Isaiah Cochran at first doubles. Littlejohn

and classmate Colin Philips took third at second doubles.

The Waynesburg men’s and women’s track & field teams faced

some lofty expectations this spring after historically high finishes at

the 2013 PAC Outdoor Track & Field Championships. Some major

losses due to graduation contributed to the Jacket women dropping

to fourth place this spring after they won their first conference team

title in 2013. The Waynesburg men experienced a less precipitous

drop by placing third as a squad after claiming second place a year

earlier.

Junior Byrum Louco stole the show at the conference

championships by taking home both the PAC Track MVP award

and PAC Track & Field MVP award after an outstanding Saturday

of competition. He scored individual gold medals in both the

400-meter dash and 400-meter hurdles, respectively, and added

honorable mention All-PAC laurels in the 110-meter hurdles

after crossing the finish line in third place. He was also part of

Waynesburg's first-place

4x400-meter relay team,

which qualified for

the upcoming Eastern

Collegiate Athletic

Conference (ECAC)

Championships.

Last, but certainly not

least, the Waynesburg

baseball team was on

the cusp of qualifying

for the four-team

PAC Championship

tournament as April

turned into May. The

Yellow Jackets were

in fifth place in the

conference standings, one

game behind the number-

four squad. With veteran head coach Mike Humiston at the helm,

an extremely young group of players (three seniors, seven juniors,

nine sophomores and 17 freshmen) were looking to qualify for the

conference postseason for the first time since 2005.

ACADEMICS

The Yellow Jacket athletic programs enjoyed their share of academic

accolades throughout the school year. Waynesburg boasted the

most honorees on the PAC Fall Academic Honor Roll for a third-

straight year after 73 student-athletes were featured on the list.

That total was 14 names higher than the school with the second-

most honorees. The PAC Academic Honor Roll recognizes varsity

student-athletes who have earned a grade-point average (GPA) of

3.6 or higher on a 4.0 scale during their semester of competition.

In addition to their representation on the PAC Fall Academic

Honor Roll, the Waynesburg football, men’s cross country, women’s

cross country, men’s soccer, women’s soccer and wrestling teams

all added a variety of recognitions for their team’s efforts in the

classroom. Junior linebacker John Sikora highlighted the athletic

department’s individual academic honors by being named to

the Capital One All-America Division III Football Team, which is

selected by the Collegiate Sports Information Directors of America

(CoSIDA).

The Waynesburg University men’s and women’s cross country teams both placed in the top three of their respective PAC championship meets. The Yellow Jacket women took second, while their male counterparts took third.

Alumni & Fr iends EventsSeptember 2014 Washington, PA (TBA) Women's Alumnae Luncheon

October 10-11, 2014 Homecoming

October 23, 2014 Baltimore Area Alumni & Friends Dinner

November 6, 2014 Dave & Buster’s Recent Grad Night

November 13, 2014 Greensburg Alumni & Friends Dinner

January 28, 2015 Pittsburgh Networking Lunch

February 4, 2015 Washington County Networking Lunch

February 14, 2015 WU Sweethearts Dinner

February 26, 2015 Phantom of the Opera in Pittsburgh, Pa.

March 2-5, 2015 Florida Alumni & Friends Events

March 17, 2015 Arizona Alumni & Friends Dinner

March 24, 2015 166th Charter Day Celebration and Donor Recognition Dinner

April 11, 2015 Alumni Dinner Theatre

April 15, 2015 York Alumni & Friends Dinner

April 16, 2015 New Jersey Alumni & Friends Dinner

May 3, 2015 Commencement

For more information on Alumni & Friends events, visit www.waynesburgunited.com.


BIGDIFFERENCE

There are easy ways you can make a

at

Maybe you thought you couldn’t afford to make a significant gift to Waynesburg. Maybe you thought that a meaningful gift was something that “other people” do. There are five easy ways that you can make a gift that not only helps the University, but could help you, your estate and your heirs.

For information on ways to make a planned gift, visit plannedgiving.waynesburg.edu or contact Heidi Szuminsky, Executive Director of Institutional Advancement, at 724-852-3258 or [email protected].

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Bequests

Insurance Policies

Retirement Plan Assets

Charitable Gi� Annuities

Charitable Remainder Trusts

ALUMNI UPDATE


Alumnus gains national recognition through PBS award for classroom innovation

Ryan Devlin, a 2007 Waynesburg University secondary English education alumnus, was one of 100 educators selected for the 2014 PBS LearningMedia Digital Innovators Program. Devlin teaches 11th grade English and technology at Brockway Area High School in Brockway, Pa.

The PBS LearningMedia Digital Innovators Program rewards tech-

savvy K-12 educators from across the country who incorporate

digital media in the classroom to promote student engagement and

achievement.

“Great schools and great teachers constantly evolve and adapt,” said

Devlin, whose classroom is 100 percent paperless. “Technology is

going to continue to play an increased role in both life and the work

place. If we don’t teach students relevant 21st century skills, we are

failing to prepare them for their future.”

The 2014 PBS LearningMedia Digital Innovators will receive year-

long professional development opportunities that include virtual

trainings, access to premium, exclusive resources and invitations to

special events.

The top 16 applicants, including Devlin, will serve as leaders of the

program and will receive an all-expense paid trip to Washington,

D.C., to take part in a two-day digital education summit. There, they

will participate in hands-on learning, collaborate with peers and

hear from leaders in digital technology.

Devlin, who has taught at Brockway Area High School for seven

years, was named the Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year in 2013. He

was also named one of four finalists for the 2014 National Teacher

of the Year award.

Devlin received his bachelor’s degree in secondary English

education from Waynesburg University, where he became familiar

with technology in the classroom and gained hands-on experience

with modern instructional technology. Devlin also holds a master’s

degree in educational leadership. He also holds teaching certificates

in English (grades 7-12), business/computers (grades K-12) and

library science (grades K-12).


Want to find out about the latest alumni events, news, campus happenings, class notes and more?

Visit us online at www.waynesburgunited.com!

VISIT THE WAYNESBURG ALUMNI WEBSITE

ALUMNI UPDATE


CLASS NOTES: NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WWW.WAYNESBURGUNITED.COM/CLASSNOTESAre you wondering where the Class Notes section went? To provide you with the timeliest information about what your former classmates are up to these days, Class Notes are changing to an online-only format. Send your updates to [email protected] or visit www.waynesburgunited.com/classnotes*

*Due to privacy policies you must login to view Class Notes online. If you have any questions, please contact the Alumni Office at 724-852-3300.

WAYNESBURG ALUMNI E-NEWSLETTER

You can receive monthly updates from Waynesburg University Alumni by updating your email address. The Alumni Newsletter is the best way to get the latest information about upcoming alumni events near you, campus updates, sports news and more every month!

Email us at [email protected] or call 724-852-3300 to update us with your most current email.

ALUMNI UPDATE


Trustee visits St. Joseph's CathedralOn a recent visit to Vietnam, University Trustee John D. Woodward visited St. Joseph's Cathedral in Hanoi. The French colonial government built this Cathedral in 1886 in an architectural style resembling Notre Dame in Paris.

The Cathedral served as the center of worship for Hanoi's Catholics

until the Communists came to power in North Vietnam in 1954.

The Communist government ordered the Cathedral closed and St.

Joseph's did not reopen again until Christmas Eve 1990. These days,

the cathedral conducts daily masses.

Former resident directors win national award

Former Waynesburg University resident directors Chuck Ellis and his wife, Sally (Stalder) Ellis, recently received a national award for their family-owned business, Pearl Valley Cheese. A panel of international cheese experts judging the 2014 World Championship Cheese Contest in Madison, Wisc., awarded Pearl Valley a gold medallion in the Rind-less Swiss Cheese Class.

Pearl Valley's Swiss was also recognized as one of the top 16

cheeses in the entire competition, a feat among 2,615 entries from

22 countries. Pearl Valley is a four-generation business located

in Fresno, Ohio. The Ellis’s both served as resident directors at

Waynesburg University and have a son, Tom Ellis, who is a current

student.

The only way to receive the most current, real-

time information from Waynesburg University

is to update your information.

Update your information at

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Dallas Regional Alumni and Friends Dinner – January 23, 2014

Houston Regional Alumni and Friends Dinner – January 21, 2014

Richmond Regional Dinner – November 7, 2013Connecticut Regional Alumni and Friends Dinner – October 16, 2013

Alumni Gatherings


Marisa Men Reunion – May 2-3, 2014

New Jersey Regional Alumni and Friends Dinner – April 10, 2014

West Palm Beach Regional Alumni and Friends Dinner – March 3, 2014Pittsburgh Networking Lunch – February 27, 2014


Other Events (not pictured)

Dave and Buster’s Recent Grad Gathering – November 14, 2013

Hilton Head Regional Alumni and Friends Dinner – February 20, 2014

Ft. Meyers Regional Alumni and Friends Lunch – March 2, 2014

Jacksonville Beach Regional Alumni and Friends Dinner – March 5, 2014

Alumni Dinner Theatre – April 5, 2014

Denver Regional Alumni and Friends Dinner – April 8, 2014

Recent Grad Night at PNC Park – June 28, 2014

Waynesburg University kicked off its first Alumni and Friends Summer Travel Program to Greece June 12 through 23, 2014. The group walked in the footsteps of the Apostle Paul while enjoying the sights and sounds of the Greek islands. Want to be the first to find out where our next trip will take place? Email us at [email protected]!


Make plans now to attend

HOMECOMING 2014OCTOBER 10-11Homecoming is the perfect time to reconnect with classmates and

visit your alma mater. Contact your friends and make plans to spend the weekend of October 10 through 11 in Waynesburg!

CLASS REUNIONS

2004 - 10 Years1989 - 25 Years1984 - 30 Years1979 - 35 Years1969 - 45 Years1964 - 50 Years1963 and before - 50+ Years

LOOK FOR YOUR OFFICIAL HOMECOMING INVITATION SOON!

VISIT WWW.WAYNESBURGUNITED.COM/HOMECOMING14 TO GET ALL OF THE LATEST HOMECOMING 2014 UPDATES.

51 West College StreetWaynesburg, PA 15370

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Summer 2014 Lamp

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