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PRACTICAL ARTS Page 8 Traveling to Train Page 6 | Fall into Culture Page 14 | Advancing the Mission Page 16 V entures Stevenson University Vol. 38 | No. 1 | Fall 2017
PRACTICALARTS
Page 8
Traveling to Train Page 6 | Fall into Culture Page 14 | Advancing the Mission Page 16
VenturesStevenson University Vol. 38 | No. 1 | Fall 2017
As part of their orientation, Leadership and Service Scholars got to participate in a sailing adventure in Baltimore's Inner Harbor. Watch here: stevenson.edu/sailing-video.
Ventures is published four times each year by Stevenson University for its stu-dents, faculty, staff, alumni, friends, and benefactors. No part of this publication may be reproduced in print or digital form without prior permission from the publisher.
President Elliot Hirshman, Ph.D.
Chair, Board of Trustees James B. Stradtner, CFA
Vice President, University Advancement Stevenson W. Close, Jr.
Vice President, Marketing and Digital Communications and Publisher John A. Buettner
Editor Sherry E. Bithell
Design Atsuko Biars
Contributors Chip Burkey, Cierra Colón, Alison Cuomo, Samantha Brooke Murray, Ashley Reese, Tiffany Reese, Greg Royce, Brandon Seidl, Dan Walker
Advancing the Mission Contributors Meghan Culbertson, Judith Jackson, Allison Humphries ’11, Office of University Advancement
Photography Maximilian Franz, Aaron Harris, Nora Long, Sabina Moran, Dan Siebenhaar, Christopher L. Reed, SU Photography Interns, Office of University Advancement
Questions or comments about this issue? Please contact: Sherry E. Bithell, AVP, Marketing Communications Stevenson University 100 Campus Circle Owings Mills, Maryland 21117 443-352-4483 [email protected]
Please visit stevenson.edu for the latest news about the University.
IN THIS ISSUE 2 President's Perspective
3 News Briefs
16 Advancing the Mission
20 Class Notes
21 Alumnus Profile: Adrian Russo '15
23 Alumna Profile: Bryna Colley '06
FEATURESPractical ArtsAt Stevenson, giving students a connection to career
before they graduate is a longstanding tradition. Learn
how some of the more traditional arts programs are
giving students the skill sets to prepare them for life
long after graduation.
Fall Into CultureThis fall, immerse yourself in the wide array of arts
and cultural offerings on campus.
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VenturesNews for alumni and friends of Stevenson University Vol. 38 | No. 1 | Fall 2017
Visit Ventures online for added content, including videos, photos,
blog posts, and more!
stevenson.edu/ventures
This is my first President’s Perspective for Ventures magazine,
and I am glad to have this forum to call special attention to
the achievements of our talented students, faculty, staff, and
alumni as well as the new developments on our campus.
I have had the opportunity to meet many students, faculty, staff, alumni,
parents, and community supporters during the past several months and it is my
pleasure to share a few reflections about our community.
Ours is a community focused on the success of our students, putting them
first and foremost in all of our efforts. You will hear people relate stories—some
as old as the university’s founding 70 years ago and others reflecting recent
events—of the close-knit community we are and how this makes a difference in
the lives of those who have studied and worked here. It was especially heartening
to hear from a student who shared that Stevenson aspires to be the friendliest
university in the country. This sense of community and caring defines our
university.
Coupled to our strength as a community is our ability to provide students
with an exceptional college experience and a connection to their career. Time
and again, I have heard of faculty and staff whose teaching and mentoring
helped prepare an alumnus for their life and career. I have heard of how
students’ involvement in campus clubs and organizations helped broaden their
perspectives and how the coaches of our athletic teams brought out the best in
our student-athletes. The creation of lifelong friendships and relationships is a
constant in all of these experiences. The picture is clear: We are providing our
students with extraordinary experiences that shape their lives, personally and
professionally.
Our feature article, “Practical Arts,” in this issue of Ventures captures these
vital aspects of the Stevenson experience. The story takes a look at how we have
structured academic programs in the visual and performing arts to give students
an exceptional learning experience, a pathway to career possibilities, and the
mentoring that fosters their personal and professional achievement.
You will also read about Stevenson University Online, formerly the School
of Graduate and Professional Studies. The name change stems from a strategic
initiative to position the school more directly as a leader in online education
for working adults and professionals who are seeking the next stage in their
professional lives.
As the 2017-2018 academic year progresses, I look forward to meeting many
more members of our Stevenson community and learning how the university
transformed their lives.
Elliot L. Hirshman, Ph.D.
PERSPECTIVEPRESIDENT'S
| VENTURES/FALL 20172
NEWSB R I E F S
Professor Trailblazing in the Digital HumanitiesAmanda Licastro, Assistant Professor of Digital Rhetoric at
Stevenson’s School of Humanities and Social Sciences, was
recently awarded the Alliance of Digital Humanities Orga-
nizations (ADHO) Paul Fortier Prize for her paper entitled
“Teaching Empathy through Virtual Reality.”
Licastro presented her paper at the highly competitive
Digital Humanities Conference in Montreal where
approximately 2,000 people competed for the honor to be
named a Paul Fortier Prize winner. The award, given for
the best paper by a young scholar, honors late University
Distinguished Professor of French, Paul Fortier.
ADHO panelists described Licastro as a trailblazer in
the digital humanities field as her paper illustrated the
potential of virtual reality in a teaching context. “This
project demonstrates the potential for digital humanities
to foster a deeper human understanding, specifically by
focusing on and exploring the question of empathy in an
educational context,” ACH representative to the ADHO
awards committee Micki Kaufman said. “The project
illustrates the possibilities that innovative teaching provides
as well as the power of digital humanities to foster greater
social engagement and understanding through pedagogy.”
Licastro, who said she was deeply honored to receive the
prize, strongly believes in Stevenson students and hopes
to demonstrate that everyone has boundless potential as
humans.
“My presentation gave me the chance to showcase the
innovative ingenuity of our students and to demonstrate
the power of collaborative, project-based pedagogy,” Licastro
says. “Introducing any new technology into a learning
environment is risky, but I believe it is vital to prepare our
students to be leaders in their chosen industries, which
means making the most cutting-edge tools available to
them for consideration.”
An English professor at SU since 2015, Licastro taught
herself the skills necessary to understand digital technology
and teach it to others. She encourages students to explore
the unknown and learn new skills that are outside of their
comfort zones.
3STEVENSON.EDU |
NEWSB R I E F S
Take a Walk on the Wild Side: The Dell Family PathwayThe new Dell Family Pathway gives the SU community many reasons for
bridging the Owings Mills North campus. Did we capture yours?
stevenson.edu/dellpathway
Crystal Clear: Chemistry Goes MobileJeremy Burkett, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Chemistry, has created
a new mobile chemistry app to supplement topics in general chem-
istry courses. Called “Crystalz,” it is currently available in the iTunes
App Store. The app helps students visualize crystal lattice structure
and packing in high-definition, space-filling form or in simple wire
frames. The models can be moved and rotated in the app, allowing
students to see the crystals from any viewpoint, and provides struc-
tural information about bond angles and sizes.
| VENTURES/FALL 20174
WELCOME NEWSB R I E F S
Introducing Stevenson University OnlineIn August, SU announced a name change for its School of Gradu-
ate and Professional Studies: Stevenson University Online. The
name change stems from the desire to position the school more
directly as an online education provider, leader, and innovator,
says Susan T. Gorman, Executive Vice President of Academic Af-
fairs and Provost
“Rest assured that although the school’s name has changed, it
remains one of seven schools within Stevenson’s administrative
structure,” she says. “Its goal remains the same: to provide our
students with the high quality, career-focused, and personalized
education they have come to expect from Stevenson.”
Joyce Becker, Dean of Stevenson University Online, says that
the university; its students, faculty, and staff; prospective students;
and partners will all experience the many benefits to this change.
“One aspect of the change is that we’re adding new, fully online
bachelor’s and master’s degree programs as well as modernizing
and enhancing current online and hybrid degree programs,”
Becker explains.
Another benefit will be the creation of upper division, lower
division, and post-baccalaureate certificate programs in a variety
of specialized fields that could provide further professional
development opportunities. For current and prospective
undergraduate students, there will be additional options
for bachelor’s-to-master’s degree programs based on the
growing number of master’s programs.
Students who complete a Stevenson University Online
program or any of the campus-based programs will earn a
Stevenson University degree and diploma.
Since 2002, Stevenson University has pioneered delivering
master’s and bachelor’s programs to working professionals
seeking to complete a degree or use a degree to advance their
careers. In 2006, it launched its online Master of Science in
Forensic Studies program and, as of 2017, offers 13 online
master’s, seven online bachelor’s, and four online certificate
programs in areas such as nursing, healthcare management,
forensic studies, forensic science, cyber forensics, STEM
teaching, literacy education, communication studies, and
business technology management.
For more information about Stevenson University Online,
visit stevenson.edu/online.
STEVENSON.EDU | 5
Traveling to Train
NEWSB R I E F S
This summer, the men’s cross country team and the women’s field hockey team took flight to hone their skills in unusual —and gorgeous—locales.
| VENTURES/FALL 20176
WANT MORE? Check out gomustangsports.com and find videos, photographs, stats, schedules, interviews, and much more. To stay up-to-date, bookmark the site and visit it frequently.
NEWSB R I E F S
about different cultures and to have team bonding was amazing.”
The Mustangs competed in three friendlies and had four
training sessions on the trip. Teams competing in the tournament
included club teams from both England and Ireland as well as the
Barbados National and Junior National teams.
“We got to play on an AstroTurf field, which was a true
advantage because it is a faster surface and helps sharpen our
skills,” says Martin. “It is a surface we very rarely get to participate
on and it is one the top NCAA teams get to play on regularly.
Overall, it was a great opportunity to play on a preferred surface
and to grow and bond.”
The team also got to enjoy the island, partaking in the Cool
Running Catamaran trip where they were able to sail the
Caribbean Sea and swim with tropical fish and green turtles.
The Mustangs also had free time to explore the town where they
stayed, St. Lawrence Gap, which is one of the best-known towns
on the island of Barbados. Before the team returned home, they
had time in Bridgetown, the island’’s largest and most vibrant city.
“This trip was an advantage because you get to play more games
and prepare for your regular season,” Martin adds. “It was a win
across the board.”
Taking Summer Training to New HeightsA group of Mustang men’s cross country student-athletes took
their traditional summer training to a new level this summer.
Instead of running on trails, streets, and tracks close to home,
seven of them traveled to Flagstaff, Ariz. for the month of July
to train and live together at an altitude of more than 6,900 feet.
Last year, three Mustang cross country runners, Brett Olin,
Jackson Morrow, and Sam Mercoli, went to Flagstaff and the
improvement in their subsequent performance was noticeable,
not only to themselves but also to their teammates, sparking
more interest in this year’s trip.
In early July, Langston Gash, Olin, Mercoli, Anthony
Mercoli, Ryan Siegel, Patrick Watson, and incoming freshman
Aditya Singh rented a house in Flagstaff to begin their training.
A typical day consisted of a run early in the morning after
waking up around 6 a.m.; some days added a second run in the
afternoon.
Team Coach David Berdan, a Hall-of-Fame distance runner
at Elizabethtown College and later a two-time winner of the
Baltimore Marathon, gave Olin and his teammates the initial
idea to train at altitude. Berdan sent workouts and mileage each
week for the team to follow.
Training at altitude, with thinner air, is an adjustment for
any athlete. Olin warned his teammates about just that. “I’ll be
honest, it was rough that first week out there [last year],” says
Olin. “The altitude kind of made it so something that would be
considered an easy pace here was difficult. I made it a point to
tell my teammates that hadn’t experienced it that it was going
to feel a little different and not to worry about pace and how
fast you’re going.”
Perhaps more important than the group’s training runs,
however, was the time not spent running. The vast amounts of
downtime allowed the group to explore their new West Coast
surroundings and to get to know each other better away from
cross country.
“I’d love to get more guys out there,” says Gash. “It was a
fun experience, you get to know the guys on the team. I’d like
for more guys on the team to experience that.” If the Mustangs
can better their best MAC finish of fifth, the group should have
little trouble convincing others to join them in Arizona next
summer.
Field Hockey Travels to Barbados for Preseason TrainingTo prepare for the 2017 season, the Stevenson field hockey team
made a trip to the Eastern Caribbean island of Barbados, where
they trained and competed in the Barbados Hockey Festival.
“I had done some abroad trips in the past and every year that
I had done it I had found it was such a wonderful event for the
girls,” explains Head Coach Laurel Martin. “To see and learn
7STEVENSON.EDU |
It’s also known for the arts and cultural opportu-
nities it offers to the SU community as well as the
broader Baltimore audience. Today, the university is
tying these two aspirations into its curricula for the
more traditional arts degree programs, allowing stu-
dents to explore their passions while giving them the
practical skills to take their first steps on an endur-
ing career path.
Theatre and Media PerformanceThe theatre and media performance program is
training the entrepreneurial performing artist for
the 21st century, according to Ryan Clark, Program
Coordinator and Assistant Professor of Theatre.
“Students engage in a traditional actor training,
which includes scene study, voice, movement,
and theatre history. Additionally, students take
two levels of acting for the camera and voiceover
performance to prepare them for a wide range of
media performance opportunities.”
Clark notes that career readiness is key to the
program and cites two examples: Business of the
Actor and Audition Technique. “In Business of the
Actor, students create a career plan that aligns with
their interests,” he explains. “They explore regions of
the country where their unique performance skills
would be most marketable; resume, headshot, and
financial planning round out this critical course. In
Audition Technique, students learn how to choose
material that best fits roles they might audition
for on stage and camera and then practice with
professors, acting coaches, and casting directors. The
course culminates in a showcase of the student’s
best work.”
Clark has continued in the fine Stevenson
tradition of making live theatre an essential part
of the cultural life of the university. Each year, the
program produces three to four plays in two distinct
spaces, The Inscape Theatre and The Studio Theatre.
“Theatre is by nature a collaborative art,” he
says. “We have been diligently working with other
departments on campus to bring theatrical texts into
the classroom. For example, we are in our third year
of partnering with the English Department. Students
read one or more of the plays we produce in writing
and composition classes. We conduct workshops
with these classes in preparation of their seeing the
performance and then post-performance talk-backs
with the cast, designers, and directors to give non-
theatre students a window into the creative process.”
In October, Clark and Laurel Moody, Assistant
Professor of Nursing, will be working together on
a standardized patient simulation dealing with
end-of-life/hospice care. Clark’s Acting II students
will play patients and family members dealing with
PRACTICALARTS
Stevenson has long had a reputation for offering an exceptional education that gives students a connection to their career aspirations.
| VENTURES/FALL 20178
STEVENSON.EDU | 9
chronic illness, and Moody’s upper-level nursing students
will play nurses interacting with this challenging scenario.
“This is an excellent opportunity for acting students to
create realistic characters and work on improvisation skills
while nursing students will explore a ‘real-life’ patient and
family situation,” he says.
Looking ahead, Clark has spoken with Jeanne Geiger-
Brown, Dean of the Berman School of Nursing and
Health Professions, and Merrie Dermowicz, Dean of the
Fine School of the Sciences, about programming an entire
theatre season with math, science, and health care themes.
For example, he suggests, issues of medical ethics, women
in science, energy policy, and climate change might be
possible areas to explore.
“The key to successful arts programming is the
connectivity with all areas of the university, thus providing
a rich liberal arts experience for every SU student.”
Fashion Design and Fashion Merchandising This fall will see the merger of two creative and practical
academic programs, fashion design and fashion
merchandising, under one roof—literally and figuratively.
Although both will remain separate degree programs,
they will both be in the School of Design (formerly,
fashion merchandising was in the School of Business and
Leadership), reporting to Forest Bell, Interim Chair of
Fashion Design and Merchandising.
“Regarding these two fields of study, one does not
exist without the other,” Bell says. “Now, we can take
information and ideas through the entire fashion creation
and distribution process across both degrees and help
students better understand the role that each plays.”
In addition to being a sound move for the curricula,
today’s fashion industry also played a role in the decision.
“With the changing speed in the fashion production
timeline, designers and merchandisers must work in close
proximity to ensure that new design trends, customer
needs, and production timelines are met,” explains
Bell. “This balance between examining past business
performance and adopting current and future trends that
are essential to your target customer needs requires a fine
balance between quantitative and qualitative data. Each
has degree holds an important element in data collection
and analysis.”
Now, both degrees are fine-tuned to teach students a
balance of both the needed and wanted information that
prepares them for a broad range of careers. Fashion design
positions can range from—among others—art director,
fashion writer, and trend forecaster to design product
developer, fashion illustrator, and costume designer. In
the field of fashion merchandising, students can consider
working as a marketing manager, merchandise coordinator,
showroom manager, stylist, and more.
“The merger of fashion design and fashion merchandising
is a natural replication of common fashion and retail
environments,” says Bell. “By bringing these two degrees
together in the School of Design we are offering students
a real-world perspective and opening up the possibility for
further and more in-depth collaborations.”
For a look ahead at the 2017 theatre season, watch stevenson.edu/TheatreSeason.
| VENTURES/FALL 201710
PRACTICAL ARTS
Visual Communication Design At Stevenson, one example of responding to developments
in the field is the visual communication design program’s
Senior Capstone course, which looks at design for social
change.
Throughout the course, students not only learn to
apply the skills they’ve learned throughout the programs
but also show that they understand a thoughtful design
process by finding solutions to problems. Working
independently, they identify an issue that can be solved
by design, such as a public service announcement or an
art project, exploring what it is and how applicable is it
in today’s society.
“For some students, the scope of what they’re thinking
about is based on their experience and how they see the
world; others research and interpret for a more universal
message,” says George Moore, Chair and Professor of Art.
One example comes from the first capstone in fall
2015, in which a student chose to show the impact of
plastic grocery bags on the environment. “She did a
ton of research and ended up designing a character—a
pelican—to bring the issue to life as well as a point of
purchase display that suggested adopting reusable bags
by talking about the universal problems caused by plastic
ones,” Moore recalls.
“The capstone is our measure of a student’s ability to
tackle work independently, preparing them for careers.
Some will be production artists, creative directors, or run
their own business. We teach them to look at the bigger
picture and know where to start problem-solving.”
STEVENSON.EDU | 11
PRACTICAL ARTS
Projects from the course—the last design course taken by all
visual communication design students in their last semester—
are shown as a gallery exhibit for the entire community to see.
“Traditional design campaigns start at a prototype stage, so
conceivably, the exploration of ideas in the capstone could lead to
real things being produced,” Moore says.
External professionals also lend their guidance; last semester,
for example, students took part in a workshop at Open Works, a
community-based hub for fabrication tools. “It’s looking outside
the classroom—they’re interacting with real people and real
problems.
“And that’s the interesting challenge: these projects address real
issues, which means that students don’t necessarily always come
up with an answer or a solution, and they learn that through
the process, too—just as they will in the real world once they
graduate. Now, they’re already equipped to face both challenges
and opportunities.”
Starting this fall, the film and moving
image program has consolidated into
a two-track structure, says Chris Reed,
Chair and Professor of Film and Mov-
ing Image.
“When the major was introduced
under its current name in 2013, the
program offered four tracks: cin-
ematography, editing, producing, and
writing,” he explains. “As we have
evaluated the track requirements
since then, we have noticed that our
technically minded students identify
interests in both cinematography and
editing courses and producing and
writing courses by taking electives in
those areas.” Now, the program offers
the two tracks of cinematography/ed-
iting and producing/writing to both
streamline and round out students’
academic experience.
Reed adds that the outside world
of various film-and-moving-image
professions also drove the decision
to combine the tracks. “There is an
increasing need for filmmakers who
can do these combinations of shoot-
ing and editing their own material,
for hire, and writing and producing
their own material, for production. As
such, the combination of our tracks
better serves the professional needs of
our graduates.”
LOOKING AHEAD: FILM AND MOVING IMAGE
To learn about one alumna's capstone experience, go to stevenson.edu/ventures.
12 | VENTURES/FALL 2017
PRACTICAL ARTS
SU
Music Although not currently an academic degree, music—which is
offered as a minor—can be found throughout the university,
from the Marching Band to the Greenspring Valley Orchestra,
and more.
Today’s vision for the program, says Mark Lortz, Interim
Director of Music, is to have a music department that combines
performance ensembles such as the choir, band, and orchestra
with academic courses, from music history and music theory
to music technology and performance studies. “This will give
students in the minor a much broader understanding, both
theoretically and applied, of the foundations and impact of
music, both historically and today.”
He also wants more students to consider becoming music
minors. “The idea is that students involved in ensembles, such as
the Gospel Choir, All Natural, and others, can truly benefit from
the academic aspects of the music minor. We want to spread the
word about the importance of music on campus. It’s fulfilling to
both the students who are involved and the community.”
Lortz stresses to students who feel that they’re not talented
enough to participate that the program caters to the informal
learner through a supportive atmosphere and a family
environment. “We’re extremely collaborative. We would like
to have the orchestra perform with the choir, the choir with
the marching band. We’re also encouraging marching band
members to be part of orchestra or choir—the fact is that the
more you do, better you’ll get.”
Among others helping Lortz to achieve his goal will be new
orchestra director Harlan Parker, Ph.D., who has been at the
Peabody Institute for 28 years and will continue teaching
there, and new choir director Beverly Gandolfo, who taught in
Carroll County Schools for more than 30 years.
“We’re still having a concert at end of each semester but
we’re also looking at other opportunities on campus that show
our range, such as pop-up performances like the choir singing
at a dinner or orchestra members playing during a recruitment
event,” Lortz says. “It’s a new semester, a new vision, and a
new direction that is student-focused and all-inclusive.”
STEVENSON.EDU | 13
PRACTICAL ARTS
Fall intoCulture
| VENTURES/FALL 201714
FALL INTO CULTURE
14
Fall intoCulture
GUEST SPEAKERS AND LECTURES
DEPARTMENT OF FILM AND MOVING IMAGE Artist-in-Residence: Theo Anthony Oct. 17, Reception: 6 p.m. Screening of Rat Film: 7 p.m. School of Design Soundstage (OMN)
The Department of Film and Moving Image welcomes Theo Anthony as the fall 2017 Artist-in-Residence. Anthony is a writer, photographer, and filmmaker currently based in Bal-timore. His films have premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, Locarno International Film Festival, Rotterdam International Film Festival, SXSW, and Anthology Film Archives. His first feature, Rat Film, debuted at the 2016 Locarno International Film Festival to critical acclaim.
BALTIMORE SPEAKERS SERIES ON CAMPUSJon MeachamOct. 24Location/time TBDFor more information, call 410-486-7000.
Presidential historian, Pulitzer Prize-winner, and contributing editor at TIME, Jon Meacham is one of America’s most promi-nent public intellectuals. A regular guest on Morning Joe, he is known as a skilled raconteur with a depth of knowledge about politics, religion, and current affairs.
10TH ANNUAL SHAPIRO/ROUSE LECTURERonald M. ShapiroNov. 14, 7 p.m.Rockland Ballroom (OM)
The annual Shapiro/Rouse lecture in Business Commu-nication is an endowed event made possible through the generosity of Ronald M. Shapiro, Esq. and his wife Kathryn Shapiro. This year’s 10th annual lecture will feature Ronald himself. He is an expert negotiator, sports agent, attorney, New York Times bestselling author, and civic leader.
THEATRE
EURYDICE Opening Night Reception: Thursday, Nov. 2, 5-7 p.m. Performances: Nov. 2-4 and 9-11, 7 p.m., Nov. 5, 2 p.m. Inscape Theatre (GS) Tickets: General Admission $10, Students/Staff/ Seniors $5. Call 443-334-2618 for tickets
The Department of Theatre and Media Performance presents Eurydice. In Eurydice, playwright Sarah Ruhl reimagines the classic myth of Orpheus through the eyes of its heroine. With contemporary characters, ingenious plot twists, and breathtaking visual effects, the play is a fresh look at a timeless love story.
MUSIC
GREENSPRING VALLEY ORCHESTRA Dec. 10, 4 p.m. Inscape Theatre (GS)
The Greenspring Valley Orchestra will present a program featuring Saint-Saens’ Bacchanale from Samson and Delilah, Gounod’s Faust Ballet Music, and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 2, the “Little Russian.” Note: Admission charge.
UNIVERSITY SINGERSDec. 7, 7 p.m.Inscape Theatre (GS)
The University Singers will present a diverse program of multicultural composers and arrangers, featuring classical and contemporary choral styles as well as holiday favorites.
EXHIBITIONS
BERLIN: FROM SPACE TO PLACE Reception: Oct. 5, 6-8 p.m. On view: Aug. 28, 2017-May 18, 2018 St. Paul Companies Pavilion (GS)
This photo exhibit asks its audience to consider the intentional, inviting, isolating, and comforting aspects of a built environment—specifically the city of Berlin, Germany. Twenty-one students spent eight days documenting, researching, and capturing physical and expressive relationships they observed during a study abroad trip to Berlin in spring 2017.
SUSTAINABILITY IN FASHION, EMPATHY FOR THE ENVIRONMENTReception: Nov. 30, 6–8 p.m.On View: Nov. 30–Dec. 15Manning Academic Center Gallery (OMN)
Stevenson University’s Fashion Design program presents Sustainability in Fashion, Empathy for the Environment, an exhibition of original garments created by junior fashion design majors. Students will showcase experi-mental garments derived from recycled, repurposed and found objects accompanied by an innovative eveningwear design. Stevenson’s fashion design and merchandising majors will create exhibition boards that tell the story of each designer’s influences.
The cultural events are thriving at Stevenson, where the university commu-nity and its guests enjoy an array of arts exhibitions, theatre productions, music performances, guest speakers, film screenings, and more. Just a few of the events orchestrated to inspire creativity, learning, and discovery in the coming months include:
For more information and a full schedule of the fall’s cultural of-ferings, visit stevenson.edu/arts.
Beginning this fall, Ste-venson will supplement the Cultural Programs and Exhibitions schedule with a series of Pop-Up arts experiences, creat-ing a robust, arts-rich campus community. Pop-Ups will include hands-on design workshops, impromptu musical and theatrical performances, creative conversations, and much more. These arts experiences will be hosted outside of the university’s traditional venues at a variety of campus locations at the heart of student en-gagement and activity.
ArtsGo thePop
STEVENSON.EDU | 15
FALL INTO CULTURE
ADVANCING THE MISSION
| VENTURES/FALL 201716
The More Things Change, The More They Stay the Same
The time-tested commitment to preparing every student for a
successful career through a liberal arts education and personal-
ized attention from faculty and staff remains at the heart of our
university. And the motto "for living, for learning” is witnessed
every day as our alumni share their wisdom and experience
with our current students.
Throughout this, our 70th anniversary year, reflect on the
following thoughts about Stevenson.
NEVER FORGET: YOU ARE A MUSTANGStevenson alumni make an impact. They give back to the uni-
versity and serve their communities. They strengthen the repu-
tation of their alma mater through their personal success. They
promote the institution across their professional networks.
They maintain the meaningful connections built with faculty,
staff, and peers during their student experience. And they never
forget what it means to be a Mustang.
WATCH THE LEGACY GROWThere is an unwavering heritage of community ingrained
in the fabric of Stevenson University that is strengthened by
our growing population of legacy families. Firmly rooted in the
institution’s history, an academic focus on career preparation
and a commitment to serving others are ideals that have been
passed from generation to generation. Through the years, the
institution has provided many graduates with the opportunity
A lot has changed in 70 years but the tightknit, caring community created by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur remains motivated by and dedi-cated to the success of each of its members: past, present, and future.
The Agora Companies
Asset Strategy Consultants
Bareham CPA, PA
Brotman Financial Group, Inc.
Correct Rx Pharmacy Services
Element Financial Management
Enterprise Holdings
Gross, Mendelson & Associates
Merritt Properties
Mt. Royal Printing & Communications
PMM Companies
RCM&D
T. Rowe Price
Tremco
Weyrich, Cronin & Sorra
WE ARE GRATEFUL TO THESE STEVENSON
PARTNERS who have chosen to renew their support and provide
scholarships for our students:
STEVENSON.EDU/GIVING | 17
STEVENSON HAS A TOTAL OF 17,749
LIVING ALUMNI.
50% OF OUR ALUMNI
HAVE GRADUATED SINCE 2006.
MORE THAN 600 UNIQUE ALUMNI
ATTENDED EVENTS LAST
YEAR.
to share a unique bond with family members who also called Villa Julie/Ste-
venson “home” at one time. In turn, these legacy families have enhanced the
overall support and commitment of our alumni body. Stevenson University
will forever take pride in the longstanding tradition it shares with generations
of legacy families.
YOUR INVOLVEMENT MAKES US STRONGERIf it’s been a while since you thought about how you might want to be in-
volved with the university, now is a great time to think about what might be a
meaningful connection for you. There are many ways to connect with SU and
our nearly 18,000 alumni. You can support initiatives on and off campus by
volunteering, attending events, and promoting the SU brand.
You also have the power to strengthen Stevenson University by giving back.
Through your philanthropic support and volunteerism, you can move us for-
ward and make sure that our students have the educational experience they
will need to make an impact, just as you have.
To learn more about getting involved, please contact Allison Humphries ’11,
Director of Alumni and Constituent Relations, at [email protected] or
443-334-2063.
ADVANCING THE MISSION
All Stevenson graduates automatically become members of the
Alumni Association, and there is no membership fee.
This governing group consists of 30 members-at-large, a re-
gional ambassador, and two student representatives. Members
of the AAB represent a wide range of class years, programs of
study, student experiences, and professional networks. It is the
mission of the AAB to engage alumni constituents in the life of
the university beyond graduation. Through the development and
enhancement of events and initiatives, AAB members work to
strengthen the connection that alumni have to their alma mater.
The Board is comprised of five committees: Executive, Athlet-
ics, Engagement, Events, and Nominations and Awards.
• THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE provides leadership to all
committees and works to promote a sense of community and
engage active and non-active alumni.
Members of the Alumni Association Board were introduced to President Elliot Hirshman, Ph.D., during a meeting on July 18. Following remarks from the president, members engaged in a dialogue surrounding the mission and goals of the Alumni Association.
• THE ATHLETICS COMMITTEE builds the legacy and tradition
of former student-athletes through outreach and engagement
across all Athletic programs.
• THE ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE develops service initia-
tives externally and supports student service projects on and off
campus. Members of this committee also work to engage others
to support the university philanthropically by working closely
with representatives of the Advancement Office.
• THE EVENTS COMMITTEE focuses on building community
and pride by carrying out creative and interesting events that
meet the needs of a diverse population of alumni.
• THE NOMINATIONS AND AWARDS COMMITTEE strives to
ensure diversity and inclusion in the selection of new members
to the Alumni Association Board and alumni award recipients.
The Stevenson University Alumni Association Board (AAB) works to connect, celebrate, and represent the alumni body, or Alumni Association, in the com-munity and across the entire university.
If you are interested in learning more about the Alumni Association Board, please contact Allison Humphries ’11, Director of Alumni and Constituent Relations, at [email protected] or 443-334-2063.
Leading by Example: The Alumni Association Board
| VENTURES/FALL 201718
“ I absolutely loved my time at Villa Julie College and I am very impressed with the vision and direction of Stevenson University. I give my time because it's important for alumni who had a great experience to help ensure current students have that same experience or better!”
-Anthony Davis ’02 ’03M, Vice President
Bradley Bartkowiak ’07
Chrissy Bowman ’02 Events Co-Chair
Margaret Boyd-Anderson ’91 ’17
Tracey Cantabene ’95
Rob Carter ’08
Shervonne Cherry ’05 President, Executive Chair
Tonia Cristino ’08 ’10M Athletics Chair
Anthony Davis ’02 ’03M Vice President, Nominations & Awards Chair
Katie Decker ’10 ’12M
Megan Donovan ’16
Nick Farano ’12
Ashleigh Fiorino ’12
Esther Ford ’11
Matthew Glace ’03 ’06M
Melanie Hagan ’91
Gabby Howard ’12
Julie Johnson ’06
MEMBERS OF THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD
Matt Johnson ’98 Immediate Past President
Andrew McGregor ’15 ’16M
Jen Milam ’09
Blaire Miller ’05 Engagement Chair
Marcia Neuburger ’05
Lauren Novsak ’19 Student Representative
Angie Pallozzi ’05 Events Co-Chair
AJ Randhawa ’11
Shantell Roberts ’08
Ryan Salah ’15
Jenny Schroeder ’12
Tara Shishmanian ’15 D.C. Regional Ambassador
James Smyrnioudis ’02
Mike Tyler ’02
Jennifer Verch ’01
Kourtney Wells ’18 Student Representative
Marcie Wood ’93 ’97
STEVENSON.EDU/GIVING | 19
Alumni Events
You Are Invited
Sept. 30Alumni Day at Boordy Vineyards
Oct. 20SU Golf Open
Oct. 21Affinity Tailgate & Football vs. Albright
Oct. 21Stevenson Crab Feast
Watch for further details on this and oth-
er events in upcoming issues of the email
Alumni Newsletter, or visit the alumni
website at stevenson.edu/alumni.
Have any ideas or suggestions for alumni
events? Please contact Allison Humphries
’11, Director of Alumni and Constituent
Relations, at [email protected] or
443-334-2063.
Oct. 21Dick Watts Athletics Hall of Fame Banquet
Nov.16Alumni Happy Hour
Dec. 9Breakfast with Santa
CLASS NOTES
Matt Bramble graduated from UCLA with a doctorate degree in human genetics after successfully defending his thesis. SU biology professor Joe Matanoski and former faculty member Andy Kreutz attended the defense in support of Matt. He was also recently awarded a Fogarty Global Health Fellowship and will spend much of the coming year in the Congo, and then he will continue his work at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C.
Mikki Firor is the President and CEO of Trovato, LLC, a dementia consulting company that she opened in November 2015. She is a regionally known dementia expert, speaker, trainer, and consultant serving D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.
2012Kelsey Funk Amrhein and her husband, Michael, are living in Honolulu, Hawaii, where she is a Director at the Strode Montessori Preschool. She received a master’s degree in early childhood education along with the Montessori AMS certificate from Chaminade University.
2014Kathryn “Katy” Puccio is a Shared Collections Specialist at the Washington Research Library Consortium, a non-profit corporation established in 1987 to support and enhance the library and information services of universities in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area.
Ryan Rubenstein is working in sales and account management at W.B. Mason in Columbia, Md. He also coaches lacrosse for the
1970Our condolences to Susan Burns Wilfong on the passing of her sister, Mary Berheimer, on July 10.
1990Susan Wisniewski Hussey ’90 ’92 has joined the University of Maryland Medical Center and the University of Maryland Rehabilitation and Orthopaedic Institute as Vice President of Human Resources. She will have oversight for all aspects of the HR function at both UMMC campuses as well as UM Rehab. Susan was the Vice President of Human Resources at the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center, and prior to that she served in HR roles of increasing responsibility at Greater Baltimore Medical Center.
2006Diane Horton Pfeifer and her husband, Ryan, are happy to announce the birth of their second child, Alyssa Mae, on June 20, 2017. She joins big brother Hunter at home.
2007Anna Pacelli Bell is working at Ascension in St. Louis, Mo., as a Sourcing Manager, Strategic Sourcing. Ascension is the largest non-profit health system in the U.S. and the world’s largest Catholic health system.
2008Cybill Birmingham is engaged to marry Marc LaMartina and the couple is planning an October wedding. Cybill is an enterprise client services manager for PayPal and Marc is a client service manager for ConnectYourCare in Hunt Valley.
2010Julia Wikoff Barker ’10 ’11M is a Forensic Document Examiner for the United States Secret Service, and she returned to campus last April to give a seminar on questioned document evidence to students in the Introduction to Forensic Science class. She brought samples of currency, both authentic and counterfeit, for students to examine and then quizzed the class on their ability to match handwriting samples. In her work, Julia examines all kinds of evidence, from falsified contracts to counterfeit currency.
Baltimore Breakers and assists at the Boys’ Latin School, where he attended high school.
Julia Tucker ’14 ’15M was honored to be asked to sing the Stevenson Alma Mater at the gala farewell event honoring President Emeritus Kevin J. Manning on June 10. She also returned to the Owings Mills campus on April 18 to join the community celebration in honor of President Emeritus Manning and helped to conclude the ceremony by singing the Alma Mater, with keyboard accompaniment by Robert Suggs.
2015Jenifer Antonelli spent the summer running across the United States as part of the Ulman Cancer Fund’s 4K for Cancer program to raise funds and awareness for young adults with cancer. She was part of Team Baltimore, which left San Francisco on June 18 and arrived at Federal Hill in Baltimore City on Aug. 5.
Cortney Carnaggio ’15M was recognized in the May issue of Baltimore Magazine as one of the region’s top nurses for her extraordinary contribution to healthcare. She is a Nurse Manager at the Maryland Proton Treatment Center, where she is responsible for ensuring quality patient care through the direct supervision of all nursing personnel. She coordinates and maintains staffing adequacy and patient throughput, and she is passionate about educating staff and growing their knowledge so they can provide optimal care to patients and families. She is a member of the Oncology Nursing Society and Sigma Theta Tau International and previously spent six years as a charge nurse on an inpatient oncology unit at the Johns Hopkins Hospital. Cortney extended her gratitude to SU nursing professors and added, “I could not be where I am today without their knowledge and guidance.”
Kristin Baione ’14 was married on April 29, 2016, in Honolulu, Hawaii to David Clymer. Four SU alumni were members of the bridal party: Kelly Dorsey Baione ’11, Ryan Baione ’10, Kelly Spencer ’14 ’15M, and Emily Rogers ’15. Kristin graduated from American University with a master’s degree in strategic communication in May 2017.
| VENTURES/FALL 201720
ALUMNUS PROFILE
STEVENSON.EDU/GIVING | 21
Finding a Home in the Stevenson Community
Already working as a technical recruiter, Adrian Russo
(business and technology management ’15M) decid-
ed to pursue a master’s degree because he wanted to
gain a better understanding of the business profes-
sionals with whom he worked. He originally attended
a well-known distance learning university but after a
semester of taking a computer science course, Russo
felt that there was no connection with his faculty
or fellow students and was uncomfortable with the
method of instruction. After some research, he chose
Stevenson.
“I could tell that the Business and Technology
Management program was different as early as the
first open house,” Russo says. “The faculty took time
to understand my goals and assisted me in selecting
a program that matched my desired outcome. They
took care to make sure that I felt comfortable with
my education plan and had the actual professors who
would be teaching me give their advice. The contrast
in the level of engagement between the previous
university and Stevenson was stark.”
Russo considers Stevenson’s curriculum to be
highly relevant with coursework that extended well
beyond what he had expected. “My professors were
very well qualified and possessed extensive academic
and real-world experience. For example, Information
Technology Law was taught by an attorney who
practices technology transfer and eDiscovery law,”
he says. “My professor for Enterprise Application
Development quite literally held every development
certification offered by Microsoft. The faculty at
Stevenson is world-class and second to none.”
In fact, his Stevenson education changed Russo’s
career goals. Today, he owns a business and consults
on the technical side of talent acquisition. “I develop
applications and architect recruiting solutions,” he explains.
“My studies at Stevenson really changed the way I approach
HR and talent acquisition.”
Another difference between Stevenson online programs
and those at other institutions? That it actually feels like
a community, Russo notes. “I still keep in contact with
classmates, professors, advisors, and staff. Everyone
genuinely cares for each other. It is evident during school
activities, whether in an online environment or a campus
event.
“Stevenson is the type university that you just want to
be a part of. I formed real connections with classmates and
professors and enjoy being a part of the SU community.”
Adrian Russo ’15M
Amy Sharfman ’15 ’17M is working at Medifast as an event planner for the company’s subsidiary, Take Shape For Life. The company’s annual convention was in the middle of July, and she flew to Dallas to assist with the logistics. Amy sends her thanks to Stevenson’s business communication professors for helping to prepare her for this career.
2016Heather Drake is studying at the University of Maryland in the Pharmaceutical Sciences Program to complete a master’s degree in regulatory science. Since the summer of 2015, she has been working at Taylor Technologies where she completed her Senior Capstone Internship.
Nicole Heil ’16 ’17M and Malik Naanaa ’16 ’17M were both presenters at the Mid-Atlantic Association of Forensic Scientists Meeting in May. Nicole presented her research on the persistence of explosive TNT on collected crime
scene evidence, and Malik presented his work on synthetic cathinones, a type of street drug similar to amphetamines.
Jackie Siejack ’16M was recently named to the Board of Directors of the Harford County Public Library Foundation.
2017Sara Bollinger is working as a contract administrator at Vectrus, a global government services company located in Reston, Va.
Nia Logan Bourne is working as a registered nurse at the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Kristen Brooks is working as an operations assistant with ADG Creative, a Columbia-based digital agency that works in design, strategy, and technology.
Alexis “Lexi” Cohen is working as an admissions counselor at Keiser University in Sarasota, Fla. The school traditionally attracts
an adult undergraduate population, and Lexi is part of a team that is developing strategies to attract high school students.
Katie Madigan designed, built, and donated two Little Free Libraries to two Baltimore County elementary schools. A Little Free Library is a “take a book, return a book” free exchange. Katie first saw one of these at Lakeland Elementary/Middle School on a visit with her Equity in Education class. She decided she wanted to give back to schools by building two free libraries. To raise money, she hosted a Panera fundraiser and collected donations from customers. The libraries were donated to Randallstown Elementary and Perry Hall Elementary, where Katie completed her senior internship. After building the libraries, she collected various children’s books from family and friends, delivered the libraries, and installed them at each school.
Andrew “Drew” Wysocki is doing a graduate internship at Syracuse University in the field of strength and conditioning, and he is working with the football team in the weight room.
IN MEMORIAM:Jean Bullen ’67 on Oct. 24, 2016
Helen Ward Carr ’55 on April 18, 2017
Carolyn Mullowney Jenkins ’60 on April 18, 2017
Norma Smith Buchanan Meier ’80 on June 9, 2017
Barbara Lacey Morley ’68 on May 2, 2017
Mary Katherine O’Neill ’57 on May 31, 2017
Myrna Lynne Wallace ’80 on Feb. 17, 2017
Annie McCoach ’16 has joined the Lutherville Volunteer Fire Company, a 100 percent volunteer organization serving North-Central Baltimore County. She writes, “I am so excited for this new journey and to continue to make a difference in the community.”
| VENTURES/FALL 201722Need more information or want to volunteer? Visit stevenson.edu/alumni.
Lasting opportunities to get involved:· Attend SU Alumni Association events· Become a social media ambassador· Encourage fellow alumni to stay connected· Inquire about the Alumni Association Board· Participate in alumni focus groups· Provide career guidance to students· Support student events and programs
Don’t have much time?· Mustangs Make a Difference Day· Celebrate graduates at Commencement· Service events and trips· New Student Move-In Day· Alumni Appreciation Calling Nights· Make a gift
You’re a student for a few years, but your Stevenson connection lasts a lifetime.
MUSTANGS HELPING MUSTANGS ON MOVE-IN DAY
VOLUNTEER FOR YOUR ALMA MATER
ALUMNA PROFILE
Need more information or want to volunteer? Visit stevenson.edu/alumni.
Lasting opportunities to get involved:· Attend SU Alumni Association events· Become a social media ambassador· Encourage fellow alumni to stay connected· Inquire about the Alumni Association Board· Participate in alumni focus groups· Provide career guidance to students· Support student events and programs
Don’t have much time?· Mustangs Make a Difference Day· Celebrate graduates at Commencement· Service events and trips· New Student Move-In Day· Alumni Appreciation Calling Nights· Make a gift
You’re a student for a few years, but your Stevenson connection lasts a lifetime.
MUSTANGS HELPING MUSTANGS ON MOVE-IN DAY
VOLUNTEER FOR YOUR ALMA MATER
STEVENSON.EDU/GIVING | 23
Stevenson University: "Holding the Door Open for You"
Standing at the podium in the Owings Mills gymnasium,
looking out upon a sea of eager Mustangs, Bryna Colley
(visual communication design ’06) addressed the Class
of 2021. “I know exactly what it’s like to sit where you’re
sitting,” Colley said. And she does.
Colley was selected as the 2017 keynote speaker
at Convocation, a traditional ceremony held each
August to welcome freshman and new students to the
Stevenson family. Her comments included three pieces
of advice that were a culmination of tips and tricks
learned throughout her student experience and beyond.
First, “You’re doing this for you!” she saidd. “See when
someone sets the bar for you, you’re only going to jump
as high as that bar. But when someone challenges you
to jump as high as possible, the sky’s the limit.” Colley
urged new members of the Stevenson community to
challenge themselves by getting involved, setting goals,
and going beyond what is expected.
While a student at Stevenson, she was at the top
of her class and stood out as a highly creative and
involved student. After graduation, Colley went to work
for a highly regarded design and marketing agency in
Baltimore, BCG (B. Creative Group), where she landed
several national accounts and was highly sought-after
by clients for her creative competence and attention to
detail.
Several years later, Colley, along with her creative
partner, BCG employee and SU alumna Rebecca Smith
Biello ‘06, ventured out on their own to form 2Fold
Collective. Taking this leap wasn’t something they did
lightly. Her second piece of advice? “Don’t be afraid to
step outside of your comfort zone. At the end of the day,
I know that my proudest moments have stemmed from
the things that I’ve felt the most uncomfortable doing.”
Over time, Colley and Biello launched a second enterprise with
a web-development partner company, Foxtrot Media, to form
their most recent brand Foundry 19, located in Owings Mills
across from Foundry Row. All the while, Colley has continued
to give back to her alma mater, serving as a guest speaker to
students and as a member of the School of Design Advisory
Board, annually reviewing student portfolios.
Her closing advice was simple. “Meet people, meet people,
meet people.” Colley admitted that she was naïve during her
time as a student, expecting that working hard in class meant
she’d land a job after graduation. She stressed, “It’s not only
about what you know, it's about who you know.”
2Fold hires numerous graduates as interns and employees;
today, the Foundry19 team of nine employees consists of four
Stevenson graduates. Colley's Stevenson connections helped her
reach the success she's achieved today and as a result she looks
to provide opportunities to fellow Mustangs.
She ended her speech with the million dollar question—and
answer. “Will Stevenson get you there? I can’t promise you that.
What I can promise it that Stevenson University is holding the
door open for you.”
Bryna Colley ’06
Alumni, we want to hear what you’ve been doing!Please send us your news and photos on personal and professional achievements, marriage, family, travel, and memories of your time at VJC/SU. Submit your news and photos via mail to Alumni Notes, Stevenson University, Attn: Carolyn Douglas, 1525 Greenspring Valley Rd., Stevenson, MD 21153-0641; via e-mail to [email protected]; or submit them online at stevenson.edu/ventures.
Alumni and students were proud to celebrate the growth of Stevenson at the June 10 farewell gala in honor of President Emeritus Kevin J. Manning, Ph.D.A NIGHT FOR celebration:
| VENTURES/FALL 201724
FRIDAY, OCT. 20, 2017Piney Branch Golf ClubHampstead, Md.
Home Course of the Mustang Golf Teams!
Proceeds will benefi t Stevenson University Athletics.
STEVENSON UNIVERSITY
GOLF OPENA 2017 Homecoming + Family Week Event
GOLF OPEN 2017
Visit stevenson.edu/homecoming to register and view sponsorship opportunities.
For more information visit stevenson.edu/online
Stevenson University Online offers quality online master’s, bachelor’s,
and certificate programs designed for working adults. Stevenson
delivers a career-focused education taught by engaging faculty
while also providing a personalized, supportive environment.
‘‘Stevenson University Onlinedid a phenomenal job ofgetting me to a point inmy career that I could havenever dreamed was possible.Adrian RussoM.S. in Business & Technology Management 2015President and Founder, Equip Solutions GroupHR Entrepreneur & Recruiting Software Developer
FRIDAY, OCT. 20, 2017Piney Branch Golf ClubHampstead, Md.
Home Course of the Mustang Golf Teams!
Proceeds will benefi t Stevenson University Athletics.
STEVENSON UNIVERSITY
GOLF OPENA 2017 Homecoming + Family Week Event
GOLF OPEN 2017
Visit stevenson.edu/homecoming to register and view sponsorship opportunities.
1525 Greenspring Valley Road Stevenson, Maryland 21153-0641
stevenson.edu
Help us celebrate our 70th anniversary year during Homecoming + Family Week by attending our fun, family-friendly events, including:
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19
Powder Puff Football Game
Bonfire
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20
Stevenson University Golf Open
Mustang Madness
Haunted Hallways
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21
Family Reception
Homecoming Tailgate
Football vs. Albright
Stevenson Crab Feast
Dick Watts Athletics Hall of Fame Banquet
For more information and a full listing of events, please visit Stevenson.edu/homecoming.
STEVENSON UNIVERSITY
OCTOBER 15-21, 2017
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