Campus News Feed en-us Thu, 23 May 2013 00:37:42 EST RedDot CMS Penn State Fayette Runner Named to PSUAC All-Conference Team /Information/News/Archive/31143.htm Jordyn Hartsek Jordyn Hartsek, a freshman at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus, has been named to the PSUAC (Pennsylvania State University Athletic Conference) All-Conference Team for Cross Country. Despite missing a significant portion of the season with an injury, Hartsek won the first meet she ran, capturing the Wilkes-Barre Invitational in October with a time of 20:43. It ranks as the fifth best time in the nation according to the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA).

Hartsek finished second in the PSUAC championship and eighth at the USCAA National Championships in Concord, N.H. She is the first member of the Penn State Fayette Cross Country team to be named to the PSUAC All-Conference Team.
]]> Mon, 21 Dec 2009 12:36:01 EST /Information/News/Archive/31143.htm Penn State Fayette to Develop Training for Pennsylvania’s Deputy Sheriffs /Information/News/Archive/31142.htm Through a competitive bidding/proposal process, Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus’ Center for Community and Public Safety was awarded a six-year contract with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s Commission on Crime and Delinquency to develop the curriculum for deputy sheriffs on a statewide basis.

The curriculum includes the initial 760-hour training course and the bi-annual 20-hour in-service and continuing education courses. While University Park has been delivering the courses, this is the first time that a Penn State University campus has been awarded the development contract. The development of this curriculum will help to further strengthen Penn State Fayette as a provider of criminal justice training and education.

Ted Mellors, director of the Center for Community and Public Safety at Penn State Fayette, explains, “The courses that we will be developing cover the spectrum of law enforcement training and education from use of force topics to cultural diversity issues. Our first step is to conduct a comprehensive training needs analysis in order to get a feel for what the deputies consider to be of primary importance in their daily duties serving their respective counties and Court of Common Pleas.”

Joe Segilia, director of Outreach at Penn State Fayette, adds, “We are proud to be the recipient of this curriculum development grant. Ted Mellors and the staff at our Center for Community and Public Safety worked very diligently to meet the specifics of the grant requirements. This is another example of Penn State Fayette’s Office of Outreach and Continuing Education responding to the training and development needs of the various professional communities we serve. We look forward to a very successful implementation of the grant.”

]]> Mon, 21 Dec 2009 12:35:55 EST /Information/News/Archive/31142.htm Gift from Indian Community Supports International Students at Fayette /Information/News/Archive/31141.htm The presence of international students at the campus provides Penn State Fayette and the local community with a variety of opportunities for cross-cultural learning experiences, for example: one international student plays on the men’s basketball team, another is a peer tutor in math at the Teaching and Learning Center, and yet another works at the campus’ IT Help Desk assisting students with computer problems. On behalf of the Indian community, Dr. Mani Balu (second from right) and Shantha Balu (left) presented the gift Dec. 15 to Penn State Fayette Chancellor Emmanuel I. Osagie (second from left). They are joined by Fayette chemistry professor Dr. Prem Sattsangi.
]]> Mon, 21 Dec 2009 11:43:58 EST /Information/News/Archive/31141.htm Centra Bank presents $50,000 gift to Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/31136.htm
Osagie says, “Scholarships are very important for many students in Fayette County who dream of a Penn State education. As the University’s local institution, we provide a campus that is only part of the equation to making that dream a reality. Financial challenges often become a stumbling block. Scholarships, however, often close the financial gap and help those students achieve their dreams. We are honored to have Centra Bank as a partner in education.”

C. Christopher Cluss, chairman of Centra Bank in Pennsylvania and president of O.C. Cluss Lumber Co., “Penn State University’s presence here in Fayette County is so important to us. The University gives our local students the opportunity to receive a nationally-recognized degree, while staying right here, close to their roots. In addition, the campus is an economic engine and tremendous resource for our entire area. Our Board and Management feel that we need to strongly support such an institution that provides so much good for southwestern Pennsylvania.”

The Trustee Matching Scholarship Program is designed to keep a Penn State education accessible to all qualified students, regardless of their financial means. The program has a unique matching component—the University matches 5 percent of the principal of each gift annually and combines these funds with income from the endowment to effectively double the financial impact of the scholarship.

Centra Bank Gift
From the left: Edward Franczyk, president and CEO of Centra Bank Fayette, is joined by Centra Bank Fayette Board of Directors member Mallard George, Chairman of the Board C. Christopher Cluss, and board member James Davis (right) to present a $50,000 gift to Penn State Fayette. Receiving the gift on behalf of the campus is Penn State Fayette Chancellor Emmanuel I. Osagie.  ]]> Wed, 09 Dec 2009 16:41:33 EST /Information/News/Archive/31136.htm Penn State Fayette runs successful test of PSUTXT system /Information/News/Archive/31134.htm Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus ran a test of the PSUTXT text-messaging system on Monday, Dec. 7. The campus ran the test to help ensure its functionality in a true emergency. The test message was sent only to those who have valid PSUTXT accounts and elected to receive alerts for Penn State Fayette.

According to the text-messaging system data, 806 test messages were sent and only 10 were designated as undeliverable to subscribers. Those who received the test message on Dec. 7 do not need to take any action.

Anyone who initiated a subscription to PSUTXT and elected to receive alerts for Penn State Fayette but did not receive the test message on Dec. 7 should log into the PSUTXT system by going to http://live.psu.edu/psutxt online.

Once logged in, they should update their cell phone information, and then click on “Services” to have a new validation code sent. Once subscribers receive the validation code, they need to enter it on the registration page on the Web site to complete the process and validate their accounts, according to Mountz.

Subscribers who continue to have difficulty validating their account should visit http://omnilertsupport.com/e2campus/ online.

Anyone who has not yet subscribed to PSUTXT should go to http://live.psu.edu/psutxt online. For more information, e-mail AMountz@psu.edu.

]]> Tue, 08 Dec 2009 10:28:21 EST /Information/News/Archive/31134.htm Middle school students explore engineering at E Day /Information/News/Archive/31135.htm
This year’s theme related to robotics. Using LEGO MINDSTORMS, Penn State Fayette’s first year engineering students designed the challenging robotic activities for the visiting middle school students, who had hands-on opportunities at each station. In addition, the Second-Place National Champion Battle Bot from Fayette County Area Vocational-Technical School was on display.

Many of the students also enjoyed visiting some nearby sites, such as the Coal and Coke Heritage Center on campus, or one of the industrial partners for E Day, BAE and Gerome Manufacturing.

Snapshots of the day’s events include:

E Days
With Nowan Jalso (second from left) at the controls, (from left:) Daniel Mihalko, Jordan Trimbath and Christian Buckley, all from Laurel Highlands Middle School, discover the intricacies of operating a crane.

E Days
Zach Ostrander (right), from Rostraver Middle School, operates the “Claw Bot” as fellow student J.J. Columbus looks on and Penn State Fayette student Micah Fuge assists.

E Days
Daniel Starr, of Connellsville Junior High School East, lays his hands on the van der Graff generator while fellow students look on.

E Days
Connellsville Junior High School East student Zeke Jones is at the control of a robotic bulldozer as fellow student Margaux Klingensmith watches the operation.
]]> Tue, 08 Dec 2009 16:57:56 EST /Information/News/Archive/31135.htm Reminder: Penn State Fayette to test its PSUTXT system Dec. 7 /Information/News/Archive/31132.htm The planned test of the Penn State Fayette PSUTXT text-messaging system will take place Monday, Dec. 7. The test is intended to help ensure its functionality in a true emergency. This test will be sent only to those who have valid PSUTXT accounts and elected to receive alerts for Penn State Fayette.

At some point on Dec. 7, those with valid subscriptions to PSUTXT who elected to receive Penn State Fayette alerts will receive a message that clearly indicates it is part of a test and that there is no emergency.

Those who receive the test message on Dec. 7 do not need to take any action. Anyone who initiated a subscription to PSUTXT but does not receive the test message on Dec. 7 should log into the PSUTXT system by going to http://live.psu.edu/psutxt online.

Once logged in, they should update their cell phone information, and then click on "Services" to have a new validation code sent. Once subscribers receive the validation code, they need to enter it on the registration page on the Web site to complete the process and validate their accounts.

Subscribers who continue to have difficulty validating their account should visit http://omnilertsupport.com/e2campus/ online.

Anyone who has not yet subscribed to PSUTXT should go to http://live.psu.edu/psutxt online. For more information, e-mail AMountz@psu.edu.

]]> Mon, 30 Nov 2009 12:48:48 EST /Information/News/Archive/31132.htm Student projects to be featured in multimedia learning fair Dec. 2 /Information/News/Archive/31131.htm  
Nearly 250 students are involved in the 42 projects to be showcased. Project topic areas include arts and humanities, business and economics, English, engineering, human development and family studies, information sciences and technology, and mathematics.  
 
Some of the projects are part of the First Year Engagement “One Book/One Community” activities that included the book reading Nickle and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America, that kicked off in early September with a public forum and panel group at the campus. ]]> Thu, 26 Nov 2009 18:25:52 EST /Information/News/Archive/31131.htm Fayette film festival features “Dictators and Dollars” in early December /Information/News/Archive/31124.htm
The film festival kicks off with “The Official Story” (1985) on Dec. 1. This Academy Award-winner focuses on an Argentinian teacher who suspects her adopted daughter may have been the child of a murdered political prisoner.

The second film, “Fall of Fujimo” (2005), will be featured on Dec. 3. This award-winning film documents the story of Alberto Fujimoro, president of Peru in the 1990s, whose use of strong-arm tactics to combat terrorism eventually led to his downfall.

“Bread and Roses” (2000) will be shown on Dec. 8. Directed by Ken Loach and starring Adrien Brody and Pilar Padilla, this film is the story of an organizer’s attempt to unionize Los Angeles Hispanic office janitors and the ruthless corporate opposition they face.

The film festival will conclude on Dec. 10 with “The Agronomist” (2003) by Academy Award-winning director Jonathan Demme. It tells the story of Haitian journalist, radio owner and national hero Jean Dominique, who fought for decades against his country’s repressive governments and who was eventually assassinated himself.

Penn State Fayette’s head librarian John Riddle explains, “Latin America and the Caribbean have been especially susceptible to political, social and economic instability in their history and three of the films—‘Fall of Fujimoro,’ ‘The Official Story’ and ‘The Agronomist’—show how everyday lives are impacted, often tragically, through dictatorial regimes.”

Riddle adds, “We have balanced fictional films with two documentaries to showcase how varied film styles and genres can explore questions of social justice.”

The festival is being co-hosted by Dr. Jerry Hoeg, professor of Spanish at Penn State Fayette, and Riddle.
]]> Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:23:53 EST /Information/News/Archive/31124.htm Penn State Fayette to conduct test of PSUTXT system /Information/News/Archive/31123.htm
“Although we have used the PSUTXT system for the Penn State Fayette group a few times in the past year, we have not conducted a test of the system for a while. With winter approaching, and the potential need to send a PSUTXT alert to the Fayette campus community likely, we decided to run this test,” explained Susan Brimo-Cox, director of public relations for the campus.

At some point on Dec. 7, those with valid subscriptions to PSUTXT who elected to receive Penn State Fayette alerts will receive a message that clearly indicates it is part of a test and that there is no emergency. However, not everyone who thinks they’re subscribed actually completed the subscription process.

“The Penn State Fayette text-messaging system has 831 validated subscribers, but there are roughly 800 subscriptions in the system that remain unvalidated and it’s impossible to tell how many of those will elect to receive alerts from Penn State Fayette,” said Annemarie Mountz, assistant director of Public Information at University Park, who manages the system. “These people have not yet successfully completed the validation process, so they will not receive PSUTXT messages although they may think they should. This test will help to make those individuals aware that their PSUTXT accounts are not active and they need to complete their subscription validations.”

Validating the cell phone number at the time of opt-in verifies that users have an active text messaging service on their accounts; ensures that only the person who owns the mobile phone is signing up for the service; and ensures that the user correctly keyed in their phone number.

Those who receive the test message on Dec. 7 do not need to take any action. Anyone who initiated a subscription to PSUTXT but does not receive the test message on Dec. 7 should log into the PSUTXT system by going to http://live.psu.edu/psutxt online.

Once logged in, they should update their cell phone information, and then click on “Services” to have a new validation code sent. Once subscribers receive the validation code, they need to enter it on the registration page on the Web site to complete the process and validate their accounts, according to Mountz.

Subscribers who continue to have difficulty validating their account should visit http://omnilertsupport.com/e2campus/ online.

Anyone who has not yet subscribed to PSUTXT should go to http://live.psu.edu/psutxt online. For more information, e-mail AMountz@psu.edu.

]]> Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:23:50 EST /Information/News/Archive/31123.htm Fayette completes debut cross country season with nationally-ranked runner /Information/News/Archive/31122.htm completed a successful first season for Men’s and Women’s Cross Country at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.

“I’m very excited to have had the opportunity to coach these dedicated runners this year,” reports Matt Girod, the team’s head coach. “I’m really pleased with the first year.”

Hartsek, who missed the first month of the season with an injury, won the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Invitational on Oct. 2, her first race back. Her posted time of 20:43 is the fifth best time in the nation and in the nation for a 5K race, which qualified her for the national championships. She followed up her success at Wilkes-Barre by finishing second in the Pennsylvania State University Athletic Conference (PSUAC) championships with a 6K time of 26:52. At the national championship meet, Hartsek posted a time of 25:24 for the 6K race. She was the third highest Penn State runner in the event, trailing only Penn State Wilkes-Barre’s Maureen Suchecki and Amber Martin.                 

“It was really a good experience and I had a chance to meet some of the other runners, which was nice.” Harstek said of her opportunity to compete in the national championships.

Teammate Stacy Lloyd finished in the top 10 in several of the team’s meets, and was 10th in the PSUAC Championships. Lauren Flannigan finished 18th in the PSUAC meet. Both Lloyd and Flanigan were named to the USCAA National All-Academic team.

On the men’s side, Bill Boger was consistently the team’s top runner, and Matt Stepanik and Steven Lazar made steady progress throughout the season.

“All of our runners consistently improved their times each race,” Girod notes.

Girod says the team’s runners all helped the program get started in a positive direction. “My goal the next few years is the increase the participation numbers of the team, but it will be hard on me as a coach to see these kids go. Not only were they hard workers, but they have received a worthwhile experience competing in collegiate athletics while maintaining positive attitudes and great personalities,” Girod adds.

“To have a runner finish eighth in the nation in our first year of cross country, that’s pretty amazing,” notes Vince Capozzi, athletic director. “We had some very dedicated student-athletes this year who have helped to lay the cornerstone for what I believe will be a successful cross country experience in the future. I could not be more proud of them.”
]]> Thu, 19 Nov 2009 08:36:28 EST /Information/News/Archive/31122.htm Screening of new documentary with director Nov. 19 at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/31119.htm
“The Anatomy of Hate” is the result of Ramsdell’s six-year process on his study of hate in some of the most virulent ideologies and violent conflicts of our times. On the Web site for his documentary, Ramsdell says, “it is dialogue that will move us past the barriers of fear, cultural conditioning, and stereotype thinking—into an understanding aligned with the eternal truth that we are all one.”

Through his documentary, Ramsdell shows us how we, as humans, are susceptible to those manifestations of hate because of both emotion and biological factors, and how we can overcome them.
]]> Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:00:29 EST /Information/News/Archive/31119.htm Career choices are many for two-year degree graduates /Information/News/Archive/31118.htm
The program will focus on the campus’ two-year degree programs in Business, Engineering Technology (Architectural, Building Environmental Systems and Electrical), Human Development and Family Studies, Information Science and Technology, Mining Technology, Nursing, and Science.

Apryl Kadish, a Penn State Fayette admissions counselor, says, “Traditional-age students, as well as adults, may not realize that they can often fast-track into a career with a two-year degree and build from there once they are employed in their field or industry. It is one option an individual can consider and many of our students have had good success using this strategy.”

Penn State Fayette faculty, admissions counselors and student aid counselors will be on hand to answer questions. The $50 application fee will be waived for prospective students who apply to Penn State at the event.

Register for this event online at www.fayette.psu.edu (under Admissions), by e-mailing feadm@psu.edu, or by calling 724-430-4130.   
]]> Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:09:55 EST /Information/News/Archive/31118.htm “CEO Conversations” fall 2009 series wraps up with Don Spence /Information/News/Archive/31117.htm Don Spence, CEO of Home Healthcare Solutions, Philips Healthcare. This free event, open to the public, will be held Wednesday, November 18, at 12:30 p.m. in the Maggie Hardy Magerko Auditorium in the Fayette campus’ Community Center.

Spence was appointed CEO of Philips Home Healthcare Solutions in November of 2008. Prior to that, he served as the president of Sleep and Home Respiratory Group for Respironics—Home Healthcare Solutions’ predecessor—a position he held since 2005. Throughout his 30-year career, Spence has acquired extensive senior management experience in global businesses covering sales and marketing, manufacturing, finance, and R&D.

At BOC Group, P.L.C., Spence served in positions of increasing responsibility in the company’s medical equipment business, Ohmeda. From 1987, he held positions including business unit controller, director of field operations, general manager of service, and vice president of global marketing. In 1997, he was appointed president of Ohmeda’s Medical Systems Division, where he was responsible for the world’s largest anesthesia delivery systems company.  

When Ohmeda was sold to Instrumentarium in 1998 and became Datex-Ohmeda, Spence led the post-acquisition integration of the two businesses in North America.

From the late ‘90s until he joined Respironics in 2005, Spence held a number of positions with GKN, P.L.C. He was the senior vice president of global sales and marketing for GKN Sinter Metals located in Auburn Hills, Mich.; president/CEO of GKN Sinter Metals, a global powder metal supplier; managed all global operations and functioned as the senior executive contact to General Motors for all of GKN’s automotive divisions; and served as executive vice president of GKN Automotive.

Spence holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in economics from Michigan State University and Central Michigan University, respectively.
 
An initiative of Penn State Fayette Chancellor Emmanuel I. Osagie, CEO Conversations is designed to give students the opportunity to hear from and talk with key individuals in the local, regional and national business communities about business, entrepreneurship and leadership, but the events are free and open to the public. CEO Conversations debuted in fall 2007 with local businessman, philanthropist, and former Fayette County Commissioner Joseph A. Hardy III as the guest speaker. Guest speakers have also included Attorney General Tom Corbett and Fayette County District Attorney Nancy Vernon; Sheetz Inc. Chairman Stephen Sheetz; American Eagle Outfitters CEO James O’Donnell; Dick’s Sporting Goods CEO Edward Stack; Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl; Allegheny Construction Group Owner and President Laura Deklewa; Pittsburgh Penguins CEO Ken Sawyer; the First Lady of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Marjorie Rendell; John Kosar, chairman emeritus of Burt Hill; and Steve Tritch, chairman of Westinghouse Electric Company.
]]> Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:38:52 EST /Information/News/Archive/31117.htm Fall Graduate School and Career Fair Nov. 11 /Information/News/Archive/31099.htm
Penn State students and alumni must pre-register for this event no later than Tuesday, Nov. 10. To register, contact the Career Services and Internship Center at 724-430-4123, or via e-mail at csic@psu.edu, and provide the following information to the staff:  Name, Major (or degree attained), Phone Number, and E-mail Address.
 
Graduate schools and employers who are scheduled to be represented at the Fall Graduate School and Career Fair include:

•    California University of Pennsylvania
•    Caring Mission Home Care and TCM Home Health
•    Carlow University
•    Chatham University
•    Enterprise Rent-A-Car
•    Goodwill of Southwestern Pennsylvania
•    Jefferson Regional Medical Center
•    Laurel Highlands Foundation, Inc.
•    Laurel House, Inc.
•    MLP Steel, LLC
•    Mon General Hospital
•    Nemacolin Woodlands Resort
•    Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus
•    Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science
•    PLS Logistics Services
•    Point Park University
•    Seton Hill University
•    TeleTech
•    The Stern Center
•    Tri-State Society for Human Resources
•    Try-Again Homes, Inc.
•    Uniontown Hospital  
•    University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work
•    U.S. Army Recruiting
•    West Virginia University Hospitals
•    Young Inspiration
]]> Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:16:40 EST /Information/News/Archive/31099.htm Veterans Day Extended Tours at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/31097.htm
Participants will have the opportunity to explore the beauty of the Fayette campus, learn fun facts about Penn State, meet faculty, staff and students at our “tour stops,” and interact with other future Penn Staters. Admissions counselors will be available at the end of the tour to answer questions. The $50 application fee will be waived for those who apply to Penn State at the event.

For more information and to register, call 724-430-4130 or visit www.fayette.psu.edu. Those who attend are encouraged to dress for the weather, since tours will include time outdoors.
]]> Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:56:41 EST /Information/News/Archive/31097.htm Special registration day for returning students Nov. 13 /Information/News/Archive/31100.htm Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:19:34 EST /Information/News/Archive/31100.htm Veterans Day observance to be held at Penn State Fayette Nov. 11 /Information/News/Archive/31092.htm Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:56:48 EST /Information/News/Archive/31092.htm Award-winning ventriloquist Steve Brogan brings show to Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/31091.htm ]]> Wed, 04 Nov 2009 09:32:20 EST /Information/News/Archive/31091.htm High school students attend French Day at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/31090.htm a celebration designed to kick-off National French Week. The theme was “Social Justice in the French Speaking World.” The students, who all study French, participated in contests, including a vocabulary competition, poetry recitation, multimedia presentation, and fashion show of French professions. Students also submitted posters and compositions in advance. Contest winners include: (front row, from left) Melissa Hager, Uniontown High School, 10th grade; Ashley Dewitt, Uniontown High School, 11th grade; Alexandra Broskey, Uniontown High School, 12th grade; Holly Nedley, Uniontown High School, 12th grade; Brianna Armstrong, Geibel High School, 9th grade; Olivia Rakas, Geibel High School, 9th grade; Amanda Hanabek, Geibel High School, 9th grade; Lauren Mehokey, Geibel High School, 10th grade; Marney Hillen, Geibel High School, 12th grade; Katie Chambers, Geibel High School, 10th grade; Carla Ciarochi, Geibel High School, 12th grade; Gina Martin, Geibel High School, 12th grade; (back row, from left): Heather Mitchell, Uniontown, 11th grade; David Wrona, Uniontown, 11th grade; David Rulli, Geibel High School, 11th grade; Daniel Dix, Geibel High School 10th grade; Brandon Seehoffer, Geibel High School, 11th grade; Breanne Dowden, Geibel High School, 12th grade; Adam Duda, Geibel High School, 12th grade; Elizabeth Reilley, Laurel Highlands High School, 10th grade ]]> Wed, 04 Nov 2009 09:22:42 EST /Information/News/Archive/31090.htm Fayette Lady Roaring Lions win second consecutive PSUAC volleyball championship /Information/News/Archive/31078.htm
Fayette dominated game one, winning handily 25-11. In the second game, Mont Alto jumped to lead by as many as nine points before the Lady Roaring Lions stormed back to win 25-21.
The deciding game was a see-saw affair until Fayette seized control late. Freshman Leah Ambrosini’s kill ended the game at 25-21.

In all, Ambrosini (Connellsville High School) totaled 16 kills. She currently leads the nation with a .601 hitting percentage. Senior Heather Kelly (Keystone Oaks), playing in her last PSUAC final, added 10.

Sophomore Alex Rossi (Yough) keyed the game two comeback with some clutch serving. In all, she recorded six aces. For good measure, she added seven blocks and nine digs. Rossi is currently sixth in the nation in hitting percentage at .474, and Kelly is eighth at .416. Sophomore
Katie Sleasman (Connellsville) notched 16 assists and fellow sophomore Meghan Leary
(Frazier) added 13. Sleasman is ninth in the nation in assists, averaging more than six per game.

The Lady Roaring Lions gained a berth in the championship match with a 3-1 victory over Penn College of Technology on Oct. 30, also at Rec Hall, by scores of 25-22, 25-19, 20-25 and 25-19. Penn College’s win in game 3 was only the third set Fayette lost all season in conference play. In fact, overall the team was an incredible 48-12 in sets played.

Ambrosini had 19 kills and seven digs, while Rossi added 16 kills and eight digs. Kelly notched 15 kills. Leary led the team with 27 assists, and Sleasman added 23.

The Lady Roaring Lions return to action in the USCAA National Volleyball Championships, to be played at the Mid-America Sports Complex in Louisville, Ky. The team begins pool play on Thursday, Nov. 5, when they face Southern Virginia University at 3:30 p.m. Later that day, Fayette faces Talladega College at 5:00 p.m.

Pool play continues on Nov. 6 when the Lady Roaring Lions face defending USCAA champion Florida College at 10:00 a.m., followed by a rematch with Rochester College at 11:30 a.m. Rochester defeated Fayette 3-2 earlier this year at the Penn State Beaver Invitational.
]]> Mon, 02 Nov 2009 10:40:50 EST /Information/News/Archive/31078.htm Deadline to apply for nursing program is Nov. 30 /Information/News/Archive/31079.htm The deadline for all applicants to apply for Penn State Fayette’s associate degree in nursing for fall 2010 is Nov. 30, 2009. Interested students should contact the Admissions Office at 724-430-4130. Re-enrollment/former students, or current change-of-major and provisional students, will need to process the appropriate paperwork by contacting the campus Registrar’s Office at 724-430-4144. 

]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:41:22 EST /Information/News/Archive/31079.htm Save energy; save money on your utility bill—learn how Nov. 5 /Information/News/Archive/31076.htm Saving money on your utility bill can be as easy as implementing a few energy-saving tips. Learn how to “green” your home and prevent energy loss at a special program Thursday, Nov. 5, at 6:30 p.m. in Swimmer Hall at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. The program, entitled “H.E.L.P.” (Home Energy Loss Prevention), is free and open to the public.

Dave Meredith, associate professor of engineering at Penn State Fayette, will lead the discussion, which will focus on how you can save energy around your home and see results in less than one year. Meredith explains, “There are many ways homes lose energy and a homeowner can reduce his or her heating bill significantly through some simple, relatively low-cost actions. As you see energy use decrease, you will see savings increase every year.”

Students from Meredith’s engineering classes have helped “energize” several homes in the community. In one case, the gas usage dropped so dramatically the utility changed out the meter, figuring it must have stopped working! In another case, the owner spent less than $100 in the fall and reduced his heating cost by $800 per year.

Each home is unique, so it is hard to accurately predict exactly how much heat is lost and where, Meredith says. “In general terms, there are three main areas to consider: walls and roof, air movement, and windows. Each represents about a third of the winter heating cost. Knowing where to find these dollar thieves is what I will be discussing. Some things are simple solutions, such as putting plastic on windows, plugging up air leaks through the skin of the house, and being sure the attic (and floor where appropriate) are well insulated. I will also spend a little time talking about heat losses from the water heating system and electrical losses.

]]> Fri, 30 Oct 2009 20:17:49 EST /Information/News/Archive/31076.htm Presentation to compare current economic crisis to Great Depression /Information/News/Archive/31075.htm How does the current economic crisis compare to the Great Depression? Find out Nov. 3 at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus, when Dr. Pawan Madhogarhia, assistant professor of finance, presents “Is it different this time—1929 vs. 2008.” The presentation will take place from 12:15-1:20 p.m. in the Biomed Building’s lecture hall on campus. Madhogarhia explains, “I will be comparing the current financial crisis to the Great Depression and providing insights about how this is, or might be, different.”

No reservations are necessary. The public is invited.

]]> Fri, 30 Oct 2009 20:17:46 EST /Information/News/Archive/31075.htm Occupational/Career Outlook to Be Focus of Adult Seminar Nov. 3 /Information/News/Archive/31072.htm
The Occupational/Career Outlook seminar will focus on employment opportunities in Fayette County and how this information affects what majors adults should consider when selecting a program of study. Apryl Kadish, adult admissions counselor at Penn State Fayette, explains that this seminar will answer questions about available careers that will lead to employment opportunities. The adult seminars are mini-sessions designed to provide valuable information to help adults make decisions about pursuing a college degree.

For more information, call 724-430-4130 or register online at www.fayette.psu.edu.
]]> Thu, 29 Oct 2009 15:01:31 EST /Information/News/Archive/31072.htm Debra K. Brede named Penn State Fayette Outstanding Alumnus /Information/News/Archive/31063.htm
The Outstanding Alumnus of Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus award was established in 1985 and honors former students of the campus whose subsequent professional achievement warrants special recognition by their Alma Mater. The recipients of the award possess the qualities that truly epitomize the phrase, “Penn State proud.”

Brede is president of D.K. Brede Investment Management Company of Needham, Mass., a firm she founded in 1989. She has more than 25 years of financial experience in investment guidance, financial planning, employee benefits planning, risk management planning, and investment services.

Brede graduated from Penn State University in 1978 with a bachelor of science in biology. She graduated from the Harvard Business School Owners-Presidents Management Program in 2007, and completed Boston University Program for Certified Financial Planners. She was chairperson of the District Economic Education Committee for the Security Industry Association and has also served on the System Advisory Board of the Boston Stock Exchange.

“Debra Brede began her college education at the Penn State Fayette campus and, while she no longer lives in the area and has achieved tremendous success in her career, she continues to maintain her ties with our campus,” Osagie explains. “In 2008, Debra came back to Fayette County to be our commencement speaker, and she currently is serving on our campus’ capital campaign committee. Her connection to Penn State Fayette is strong and we want to honor that commitment.”

Because of her work and skills, Brede has received many industry honors. In 2006, she was named by Boston Magazine as one of the top 20 high-end investment managers in the Boston area. Barron’s named her as one of the Top 100 Women Financial Advisors in the country in 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009. In 2007, 2008 and 2009, Brede was listed among the Top 50 Independent Advisors in America by Registered Rep magazine. And, as seen in Forbes Magazine, Goldline Research named her as one of the Ten Most Dependable Wealth Managers of the Northeast in 2008. In addition, Barron’s included Brede as one of the Top 1,000 Advisors in America in 2009.

Brede has also shared her expertise on various news shows, including CNBC and Fox Business News. She has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, BusinessWeek, the New York Times, Financial Times, Reuters, and Bloomberg.

Brede is also active in her community. She is a member of the Boston Rescue Mission Advisory Council (and was on the board of directors from 2000-2007); a member of Agape International’s Board of Trustees; Newton-Wellesley Hospital’s Institutional Review Board; and most recently joined Penn State University’s “For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students” Committee.

Outstanding Alumni
(from left) Charles D. Curry, chairman of The Advisory Board of Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus; Debra K. Brede, recipient of the 25th Outstanding Alumnus Award of Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus; and Dr. Emmanuel I. Osagie, chancellor of Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.
]]> Fri, 23 Oct 2009 10:00:37 EST /Information/News/Archive/31063.htm Fayette Lady Roaring Lions end volleyball season with 14-0 record /Information/News/Archive/31060.htm
Next up is the PSUAC tournament, where the Lady Roaring Lions are the defending champions. The winner of the PSUAC tournament gains an automatic berth to the 2009 United States Collegiate Athletic Association National Volleyball Championships to be played Nov. 5-7 at Spaulding University, Louisville, Ky. Last year, Penn State Fayette finished eighth at the USCAA National Championships in Fort Wayne, Ind.

As the top seed in the PSUAC tournament, the Lady Roaring Lions will receive a bye into the semifinals, which are scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 31, at Penn State’s University Park campus. Game time will be either 2 or 4 p.m. The conference championship match is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 1 at 1 p.m.

Currently, Penn State Fayette is ranked sixth in the nation in the latest USCAA Coaches’ Poll. Additionally, the team has several players in the top 10 national statistical categories:
Freshman Leah Ambrosini currently leads the nation in hitting percentage at .585. Sophomore Alex Rossi is sixth at .464 and Senior Heather Kelly is eighth at .408. Sophomore setter Katie Sleasman is ninth in the nation in assists averaging 6.4 per set.

“I’m really thrilled for the team,” Athletic Director Vince Capozzi said. “They have been working hard and I’m delighted to see that they are being rewarded for their efforts. Our head coach, Nancy Wheeler, has done a marvelous job in her first year. The entire Penn State Fayette family is proud of them. Hopefully we can win back-to-back titles and spend the first week of November in Louisville.”
]]> Fri, 16 Oct 2009 16:58:11 EST /Information/News/Archive/31060.htm Penn State Day Open House Oct. 24 at Fayette Campus /Information/News/Archive/31056.htm
Other activities that day include campus tours (optional, beginning at 11 a.m.), informational workshops about applying to Penn State and financial aid, and a look at student life and student activities. Prospective students can talk with faculty, and admissions counselors will be on hand until 2 p.m. to assist prospective students. Those who apply to Penn State during Penn State Day will have the $50 application fee waived and receive a free Penn State Fayette T-shirt. Students planning to apply to Penn State during the event should bring their official school transcripts.

Register for Penn State Day at Fayette by calling 724-430-4130 or register online at www.fayette.psu.edu. Parents are welcome to participate.
]]> Thu, 15 Oct 2009 11:16:43 EST /Information/News/Archive/31056.htm Scholarship recipients, donors, sponsors recognized at special dinner /Information/News/Archive/31059.htm Scholarship recipients, scholarship donors and sponsors, and family and friends gathered for a special recognition dinner at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus October 13. The event, now in its second year, provides an opportunity for scholarship recipients to get to know some of the individuals that make a Penn State education possible for hundreds of area students.

“Nearly 200 students received scholarships to attend Penn State Fayette this year and more than 90 percent of the scholarships are funded by private philanthropy,” reports Penn State Fayette Chancellor Emmanuel I. Osagie. “We feel it is important to bring these two groups together—the donors and the students—so they can make a personal connection”

Lori Omatick, director of Development at Penn State Fayette, observes, “We are truly fortunate to be part of such a generous community. A testament to this is demonstrated by the number of awards and scholarships that have been established through the years for our students. Without the sincere generosity of our award and scholarship sponsors, many of our students would not be at Penn State.”

A new category of scholarships were awarded and recognized at this year’s dinner—the Blues and White scholarship awards—nearly $34,000 in direct scholarships from individual contributions made in conjunction with the first annual Blues & White Gala held at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort in the spring.

Elizabeth Wallace and Carolyn Blaney At the dinner, Eberly Family Scholarship Award recipient Elizabeth Wallace spoke on behalf of student scholarship recipients. Scholarship donors and sponsors who also spoke included Carolyn Eberly Blaney, Robert Eberly III, Sally Spegar, Rita Peters and Charles Curry.

Penn State Fayette student and Eberly Family Scholarship recipient Elizabeth Wallace (center) poses for photographer Bill Hager for a formal photo with Eberly Foundation President Carolyn Blaney at the Scholarship Donor Dinner Reception at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.

]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:41:17 EST /Information/News/Archive/31059.htm Westinghouse Chairman Steve Tritch to speak at Penn State Fayette Oct. 21 /Information/News/Archive/31055.htm Steve Tritch The fall 2009 CEO Conversations series at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus continues October 21 with guest speaker Steve Tritch, chairman of Westinghouse Electric Company. The hour-long program begins at 12:30 p.m. in the Maggie Hardy Magerko Auditorium in the Community Center. The series is free and open to the public.

Tritch holds both a bachelor of science in mechanical engineering and a MBA from the University of Pittsburgh. He began working for Westinghouse Electric Company in 1971 as a product engineer in the former Power Circuit Breaker Division. He was appointed chairman in 2008, after having served as president and CEO since July 2002. Prior to that, Tritch was senior vice president of Nuclear Fuel, providing nuclear fuel products and services to nuclear power plants throughout the world. He also managed the integration of the former ABB nuclear businesses into Westinghouse Electric.

Active in a variety of local organizations, Tritch serves as chairman of the Board of Trustees for Senator John Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh, chair of the Engineering Board of Visitors to the University of Pittsburgh, and he is on the boards of the Allegheny County Conference on Community Development, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC), the United Way of Allegheny County, and the UPCI Cancer Council. In addition, he was appointed to the President’s Export Council by President Bush.

Among other awards, Tritch was honored by the Engineering Society of Western Pennsylvania with the 2009 Metcalf Award, and he was selected as the 2009 Business Hall of Fame Inductee at the Junior Achievement Spirit of Enterprise Awards Ceremony.

An initiative of Penn State Fayette Chancellor Emmanuel I. Osagie, CEO Conversations is designed to give students the opportunity to hear from and talk with key individuals in the local, regional and national business communities about business, entrepreneurship and leadership, but the events are free and open to the public. CEO Conversations debuted in fall 2007 with local businessman, philanthropist, and former Fayette County Commissioner Joseph A. Hardy III as the guest speaker. Guest speakers have also included Attorney General Tom Corbett and Fayette County District Attorney Nancy Vernon; Sheetz Inc. Chairman Stephen Sheetz; American Eagle Outfitters CEO James O’Donnell; Dick’s Sporting Goods CEO Edward Stack; Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl; Allegheny Construction Group Owner and President Laura Deklewa; Pittsburgh Penguins CEO Ken Sawyer; the First Lady of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Marjorie Rendell; and John Kosar, chairman emeritus of Burt Hill.  
]]> Fri, 16 Oct 2009 16:31:10 EST /Information/News/Archive/31055.htm Award presented to Penn State Fayette biology professor /Information/News/Archive/31053.htm was honored recently with the Earth Friend Award, presented on behalf of Sony, WTAE-TV and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council. The award recognizes individuals and organizations for accomplishments and outstanding commitment to improving the environment and greening the community.

Shostell was selected because of his “environmental awareness, research and community action.” One of his current projects is the restoration of the Redstone Watershed. An integral part of that effort was work he completed with his students to create a valuable database, including water chemistry and biodiversity information, which will help watershed community groups such as the Greater Redstone Clearwater Initiative to effectively restore and management Redstone Creek in the future.

“Doing work like this is critical for the environmental health of Redstone Creek, which is directly connected to the wellbeing of the people who live in this region. This work would not be possible if not for the assistance of many motivated students,” says Shostell.
]]> Thu, 15 Oct 2009 11:16:40 EST /Information/News/Archive/31053.htm Penn State Fayette welcomes five new faculty members /Information/News/Archive/31052.htm
Dr. Grayson, in addition to coordinating for the Mining Technology program, will be teaching mining classes at Penn State Fayette. He earned his bachelor of arts in mathematics from California University of Pennsylvania, his bachelor of science and master of science degrees in engineering of mines, as well as his doctorate in engineering from West Virginia University. Dr. Grayson is also a professor and program officer for mining engineering in the department of energy and mineral engineering at Penn State’s University Park. He is the author and/or co-author of more than 125 publications and has made more than 60 presentations worldwide.

Dr. Jones was formerly a graduate assistant and fixed-term lecturer at Penn State University, and a visiting assistant professor at Michigan State University. She has published several articles and currently has two in progress. Dr. Jones, whose dissertation was entitled “By his common talke”: Representations of Linguistic Difference on the Early English Stage, received her bachelor of arts degree in English from Youngstown State University. She received her master’s degree and doctorate, both in English, from Penn State University.

Ridenour is already a part of the Penn State Fayette family. He was an adjunct professor at the Fayette campus and will now be instructing business courses full-time. Ridenour earned his bachelor of arts degree in accounting from Washington & Jefferson College and his master of science in accountancy from Saint Vincent College.

Dr. Schatschneider has much research experience, including working as an assistant at the University of California, where he designed and conducted experiments to examine the effect of temperature and pressure on the crystal/molecular structure and vibrational dynamics of molecular solids. At Florida Atlantic University, Dr. Schatschneider worked again as a research assistant. There he designed experimental procedures for the examination of the electronic energy levels of organo-metallic complexes. Dr. Schatschneider received both his bachelor of science and master’s degrees from Florida Atlantic University. He received his doctorate in chemistry from the University of California.

Udeigwe has taught calculus, algebra, trigonometry and theoretical mathematics at the University of Pittsburgh and the University of Delaware. At Duquesne University, he taught math, physics, computer science and statistics. Udeigwe attended Duquesne University, where he received his bachelor of science in mathematics and his bachelor of art in computer science. He received his master’s degree in mathematics from the University of Pittsburgh. He also received a master’s degree in applied mathematics from the University of Delaware, in which his thesis was Identification of objects in an acoustic waveguide.

New Faculty

New faculty at Penn State Fayette include: (from left) Chemistry Professor Dr. Bohdan Schatschneider, Assistant Professor of English Dr. Lindsey Jones, Instructor of Mathematics Lawrence Udeigwe, Instructor of Business Michael Ridenour Jr., and Program Coordinator and Instructor of Mining Technology Dr. Larry Grayson.

]]> Thu, 08 Oct 2009 20:53:52 EST /Information/News/Archive/31052.htm Students can get a “Taste of Penn State” on October 12 /Information/News/Archive/31051.htm Tue, 06 Oct 2009 16:59:14 EST /Information/News/Archive/31051.htm Oct. 6 seminar for adults explains new class options for college education /Information/News/Archive/31048.htm
“Blended learning” is a new term in post-secondary education and can help adults in their goal to complete a college degree. Blended learning—also referred to as “hybrid” classes—is set up so that 40 percent of the face-to-face class time is replaced by online or other instruction. This allows adults more time at home and offers more flexibility with a work schedule. Blended learning can also provide accessibility to courses needed to complete programs, and students may pace themselves throughout the course.

The seminar is geared toward adults who wish to complete a college degree, but who may not have a flexible schedule when it comes to family or work. Online and e-learning options will also be discussed. For more information, call 724-430-4124.
]]> Fri, 02 Oct 2009 16:15:13 EST /Information/News/Archive/31048.htm CSI: Fayette to explore administration of justice careers Oct. 8 /Information/News/Archive/31049.htm
Penn State Fayette’s administration of justice faculty will present an overview of the administration of justice system and the many careers it offers. There will be live demonstrations in lie detection, serial killer profiling, and supplies for prison and jail inmates. The presenters, as well as Penn State Fayette admissions counselors, will be available to answer questions. New and transfer students interested in learning about careers in administration of justice and any of Penn State’s administration of justice degree programs are invited to attend. Free administration of justice T-shirts will be given to attendees.

Register for CSI: Fayette by calling 724-430-4130, or register online at www.fayette.psu.edu.
]]> Fri, 02 Oct 2009 16:15:10 EST /Information/News/Archive/31049.htm Penn State Fayette holds Holocaust events in remembrance of 65th anniversary /Information/News/Archive/31050.htm
The Oscar Award-winning film Schindler’s List was directed by Steven Spielberg and tells the story of Oskar Schindler, a German business man, who saved more than 1,000 Polish Jewish refugees by employing them at his factories. The film won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.

Wienreb is the only member of his family to live through the Holocaust. He survived for eleven months in the German camp Auschwitz, where he endured torture and witnessed atrocities committed in the name of war. Wienreb will share his experiences as a prisoner and survivor of the Holocaust.

Student Activities Director Chad Long says, “We decided to host these events about the Holocaust because this year marks the 65th anniversary. We think it is important for students—and the public—to learn about and learn from to this tragic event in world history.”
]]> Fri, 02 Oct 2009 16:50:53 EST /Information/News/Archive/31050.htm Learn about nursing careers at Penn State Fayette’s Nursing Open House /Information/News/Archive/31046.htm Thu, 24 Sep 2009 09:15:39 EST /Information/News/Archive/31046.htm Adult Learner Program starts at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/31041.htm An Adult Learner Program catering to the needs of adults in the community is now being offered at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. A partnership between the campus and Intermediate Unit 1, the Adult Learner Program is staffed by IU1 at a newly-opened location housed in Penn State Fayette’s Corporate Training Center. The services include remedial classes in reading, writing and math, which can help adults transition into college-level education.

Sue Conrady, director of Adult, Nonpublic and ESL Education Service with IU1, says the partnership has been discussed for several years. “We feel there are many adults in Fayette County who want to come to Penn State Fayette, but feel they are not ready. This program will help adults with the potential and desire to move into a post-secondary educational setting.”

Remedial classes in reading, writing and math are offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays in the morning, with tutoring available in the afternoons. A transition (bridge) program for students planning to attend Penn State is offered on Wednesday and Thursday evenings. The bridge program focuses on academic remediation, as well as study skills, test-taking strategies, time management, and career exploration. English as a Second Language classes, or other need-specific classes, are offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays as the need arises.

Joe Segilia, Penn State Fayette director of Outreach and Continuing Education, explains, “The bridge program gives adult students a real college experience on a university campus, but without the pressure of being an enrolled student earning college credit. The bridge program being offered by IU1’s Adult Learner Program is free of cost. I encourage students who are motivated to succeed to participate in this new campus initiative for adults.”

As Angela Kenes, coordinator of the IU1 Adult Learner Program, explains, “I’ve transitioned many students [into college] over the years, but students who succeed have some self-motivation—they need to give of themselves to complete the program. These courses are such that students can get a feeling for the academic rigor they will encounter in a college classroom.” Kenes adds that transitioning students will also learn to overcome barriers, discover resources they can use, and learn to be self-assured and confident.

The Adult Learner Program at Penn State Fayette is available to current Penn State Fayette adult students 18 years or older for tutoring, as well as local adult residents who are interested in pursuing a college-level education but feel they need to review and refine their basic academic skills before beginning regular classes.

IU 1 Adult Learner Program The public is invited to an Open House for the Adult Learner Program at Penn State Fayette on Monday, Sept. 28, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the campus’ Corporate Training Center in the Eberly Building. Information will be available about the Adult Learner Program and its classes and services, and visitors can meet staff and current Penn State Fayette students who completed the IU1 program.

For more information about the Adult Learner Program, call 724-430-4100 ext. 4732.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Angela Kenes (center), coordinator of the IU1 Adult Learner Program, works with Kim Mozie and Eric Schoch, new students in the college transition course.

]]> Tue, 22 Sep 2009 11:28:43 EST /Information/News/Archive/31041.htm Fayette County College Fair to feature nearly 50 institutions of higher learning /Information/News/Archive/31045.htm
Apryl Kadish, the Penn State Fayette admissions counselor who organized the event, says, “High school juniors and seniors and their parents will find this valuable event to be a wonderful opportunity to learn about the higher education opportunities in southwestern Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio—all in one place. They will be able to gather a lot of information about financing their education, whether they choose a university, college, technical school or the military. They also can obtain information about the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency, scholarships, and much more.”

The event also is an opportunity for adults who want to pursue a college degree or bolster their skills for career advancement. “Adults and military veterans will find a wealth of information at the college fair, as sometimes they look to improve their careers or change career paths. High school students and adults alike might also discover new possibilities that they had not considered before,” Kadish adds.

Penn State Fayette is hosting the college and technical fair to meet the needs of students across southwestern Pennsylvania. All the high schools in the region have been invited to attend. The public also is invited to attend.
]]> Wed, 23 Sep 2009 10:37:22 EST /Information/News/Archive/31045.htm Chairman emeritus of international design firm Burt Hill /Information/News/Archive/31040.htm John Kosar, principal/chairman emeritus of Burt Hill, a nationally recognized design firm that started local and is now worldwide. CEO Conversations is free, open to the public and will be held in the campus’ Maggie Hardy Magerko Auditorium, in the Community Center, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Kosar began his career as a co-op student in 1957. He earned a bachelor of science in architecture from the University of Cincinnati 1962 and now holds architectural licenses in eight states. He became partner at Burt Hill in 1969 and moved up within the company, holding positions as the firm’s treasurer from 1971-1983, president in 1984, chairman in 2000, and chairman of Burt Hill International from 2003-2005.

Over the past five decades, Kosar has been a catalyst of Burt Hill’s growth from a small architectural practice to an international design firm with more than 800 professionals and thirteen offices located throughout the world, including Butler, Pittsburgh, State College and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Cleveland; Washington, D.C.; Boston; Charlotte, North Carolina; Miami; Phoenix; Abu Dhabi and Dubai of the United Arab Emirates; and Ahmedabad in India.

Kosar is currently a member of the Pennsylvania Society of Architects and is on the board of several organizations, including the Pennsylvania Economy League, Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera and March of Dimes. He has been recognized in nine Who’s Who publications and, in 1989, he was awarded the Entrepreneur of the Year Award by Inc. Magazine and Arthur Young & Company, and has served as judge in both the 1990 and 1993 competitions.
    
An initiative of Penn State Fayette Chancellor Emmanuel I. Osagie, CEO Conversations is designed to give students the opportunity to hear from and talk with key individuals in the local, regional and national business communities about business, entrepreneurship and leadership, but the events are free and open to the public. CEO Conversations debuted in fall 2007 with local businessman, philanthropist, and former Fayette County Commissioner Joseph A. Hardy III as the guest speaker. Guest speakers have also included Attorney General Tom Corbett and Fayette County District Attorney Nancy Vernon; Sheetz Inc. Chairman Stephen Sheetz; American Eagle Outfitters CEO James O’Donnell; Dick’s Sporting Goods CEO Edward Stack; Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl; Allegheny Construction Group  Owner and President Laura Deklewa; Pittsburgh Penguins CEO Ken Sawyer; and First Lady of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Marjorie Rendell.
]]> Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:30:58 EST /Information/News/Archive/31040.htm Fall continuing education classes are starting now at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/31038.htm More than 90 continuing education classes are available this fall at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. Class topics include a wide range of subjects for adults and career-minded professionals interested in enhancing their careers, as well as classes for those who simply want to learn something new. For personal enrichment, classes include digital photography, drawing, acting, dancing, several foreign languages, beginner guitar, canine behavior and much more.

New this fall are special classes for individuals interested in obtaining “green” building certification. Professional classes also are available for those interested in health care and careers in real estate. Popular computer and business classes also are on the schedule.

Classes begin and end at various times from September through mid-December.

]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:41:13 EST /Information/News/Archive/31038.htm New reference librarian comes to Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/31037.htm Girton adds new levels of expertise to the library staff at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus, which benefits students and library patrons. In her new role, Girton works with students and faculty with research resources for academic pursuits, but also helps anyone needing assistance in finding books, articles, and other reference information.

Girton says, “I look forward to building connections with students, faculty, staff and members of the local community. I want to help them connect to the library’s vast resources.”

Previously, Girton worked as an instruction library graduate assistant and reference library graduate assistant at Northern Kentucky University. She also edited six quarterly products for Standard Publishing, based in Cincinnati, Ohio. A member of the American Library Association, Girton received her master’s degree in library science from University of Kentucky.       

The Penn State Fayette library is open to the public. Community residents can easily obtain a library card and have access to the books in the Fayette campus library, as well as the Penn State library system, and the reference section. Individuals may also get a Day Pass, which allows the use one of the library’s many computers. Girton says she hopes more people in the community will discover Penn State Fayette’s excellent library, and emphasizes she’s there to assist anyone with questions.
]]> Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:12:43 EST /Information/News/Archive/31037.htm Penn State Fayette offers “Green” courses for building industry professionals /Information/News/Archive/31030.htm
Specific course offerings include:
  • LEED Green Associate Exam Prep Course—Friday, September 18, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • LEED-A+ Building Design and Construction Exam Prep Course—Friday, September 25, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Green Advantage Environmental Certification Class—Thursday, October 8, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Green Advantage Environmental Certification Exam—Tuesday, October 13, from 8 to 10 a.m.

LEED—Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design—is a green building rating system developed and administered by the U.S. Green Building Council that is the recognized standard for measuring building sustainability. The LEED exam courses are developed for designers, architects, engineers and project managers. The LEED Green Associate examination prep course will highlight such topics as green building practices and principles, project site factors, water management, project systems and energy impacts, and acquisition, installation and management of project materials. The LEED-A+ course will provide an overview of LEED rating systems and examine sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality and innovation in design.

Green Advantage is a commercial construction program designed for builders, developers, contractors, subcontractors and suppliers. The course prepares participants for Green Advantage certification by helping them understand and enforce the core concepts and construction principles behind sustainable building, become knowledgeable about the LEED rating system, and learn how to be an effective partner with design professionals and achieve a LEED-rated building. What they learn will help them lighten the impact on the environment, save energy, and improve health conditions of construction workers and building occupants. Participants can become Green Advantage certified by successfully completing the 90-minute exam offered at the end of the course.

Joe Segilia, director of Outreach and Continuing Educations at Penn State Fayette, says, “One of the goals of our Outreach and Continuing Education Office is to provide cutting-edge educational programming to meet the energy-focused training and education initiatives so critically needed in today’s world. Through these LEED and Green Advantage courses, regional building industry professionals will be able to gain a new level of expertise that they might not otherwise have access to.”

For more information about these courses or to reserve a seat, call the Penn State Fayette Outreach and Continuing Education Office at 724-430-4211.
]]> Fri, 11 Sep 2009 16:59:13 EST /Information/News/Archive/31030.htm Three stages to feature national, regional and local performers /Information/News/Archive/31029.htm Three stages and 17 scheduled performances mean music and Michelle Branchentertainment will be non-stop at the second annual Coal and Coke Heritage Music Festival Sept. 19 at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus in Uniontown. Music begins at noon and continues until dusk. The festival features music, ethnic foods, regional arts and crafts, and a free Kiddie Koal Mine children’s area. The Coal and Coke Heritage Center also will be open for tours and special activities.

Grammy Harold BettersAward-winning singer-songwriter Michelle Branch is the festival’s headliner. Other national and regional performers include The Fabulous Hubcaps, Harold Betters, NewLanders, the Augsburg German Band, SNAP!, Bobby Reed & Jerry Onesi Trio, and Stereotype. Local music and dance ensembles scheduled to perform include Sean Harris, Eric Craggette, Spring Valley School Choir, Mt, Moriah Choir, Zach Ellsworth Band, Houck Dance Studio, Larraine Susa Dance Unlimited, Kharizma Dance Company and Koza & Co. Dance Studio.

Tickets for the September 19 Coal and Coke Heritage Festival can be purchased at all Centra Bank locations, at the State Theater in Uniontown, at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus, and by phone at 724-430-4101. Advance tickets cost $10. Tickets at the gate will be $15. The Fabulous HubcapsChildren age 4 and younger get in free.

The Coal and Coke Heritage Music Festival debuted last year designed to celebrate the unique heritage of southwestern Pennsylvania’s coal and coke history and heritage. Penn State Fayette is located on Route 119 between Uniontown and Connellsville, Pa.

]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:41:09 EST /Information/News/Archive/31029.htm College Prep Course for Parents Offered at Penn State Fayette September 17 /Information/News/Archive/31028.htm
“Parent Prep 101” will help parents understand what their children need to do to prepare for college, and how they can help in their success. Admissions Counselor Apryl Kadish explains, “Parents may be college graduates themselves, but they sometimes find that things are very different from when they attended. Parents with no college background will find this program especially helpful. This course was designed to answer any questions parents might have. It will help them help their college-bound children get off to a good start and make the transition smoothly.”

Parents who attend the class will learn how to help their children set expectations and prepare themselves academically. They will also learn how to help their children aim toward a career, research and apply for college, and apply for financial aid.

For more information or to reserve a seat, call the Penn State Fayette Admissions Office at 724-430-4130.
]]> Thu, 10 Sep 2009 09:06:52 EST /Information/News/Archive/31028.htm Award presented to Penn State Fayette engineering professor /Information/News/Archive/31022.htm David B. Meredith, P.E., associate professor of general engineering at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus, was selected as the recipient of the Dave Meredith2009 Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day Award from the Board of Directors of the Women in Engineering ProActive Network. WEPAN presented the award to Meredith for his enthusiasm and desire to “create an environment where women and girls are welcomed and appreciated in the engineering community.

Meredith was honored for his annual spring Girrl Power! program sponsored by the campus Women in Science, Engineering and Technology (WISET) student club. The theme of this year’s program—now in its ninth year—was “Supersizing the Microscopic.” Twenty middle school girls explored a variety of aspects about nonotechnology, including visits to local companies using nanotechnologies and the Nano Fabrication Lab at Penn State University Park.

Meredith is known for his many efforts to encourage girls and young women to explore engineering as a career, including his annual summer “space camps” for fourth-, fifth- and sixth-grade girls.

“Women were under represented in engineering when I was a student decades ago.  We have made progress, but still have a long way to go,” Meredith says. “The profession benefits when young women take an interest in science and math and choose careers in engineering. So, it is important that women know that there are opportunities for them in technical fields. Programs like Girrl Power!, WISET and the space camps are targeted at young girls, and some of those girls have grown up to earn college degrees in engineering here at Penn State Fayette. It is rewarding to work with students of all ages, and I am honored to have received this award.”

]]> Thu, 03 Sep 2009 21:25:46 EST /Information/News/Archive/31022.htm Penn State Fayette offers CLEP exams /Information/News/Archive/31012.htm
Brian Fernandes, director of Student and Enrollment Services at Penn State Fayette, says CLEP exams can help individuals fast-track a college degree and save money on tuition, plus CLEP exams serve diverse groups, including adult students and military service members. “Eligible veterans receive full reimbursement for the cost of the CLEP exam and administration fees from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs,” Fernandes explains.

Thirty-four CLEP exams are available, covering subject areas in business, composition and literature, history and social sciences, science and mathematics, and foreign languages. Penn State students, as well as students pursuing degrees at other colleges, can register to take CLEP exams at the Fayette campus.

Fernandes says, “Offering CLEP exams is a service Penn State Fayette is offering to the community to help make the transition to college easier.”

The cost of taking a CLEP exam is $72. For more information about taking CLEP exams at Penn State Fayette, call 724-430-4130.
]]> Tue, 01 Sep 2009 09:18:09 EST /Information/News/Archive/31012.htm SAT Prep Course offered at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/31010.htm a six-week SAT Prep Course. Penn State Fayette is offering this course to help local high school students best prepare for an important part of their college admissions decision.  
 

The course is not designed as a cram course for the SATs. Instead, it teaches proven test-taking techniques to help students realize their full potential on the test. The course includes strategies and techniques for taking the test, and a review of verbal and math concepts. Students will also work on how to tackle the essay portion of the test.
 

Two sessions of the course are being offered: six Wednesdays, from 6:00-9:00 p.m., Sept. 2-Oct. 7 or six Saturdays, from 9:00 a.m. to noon, Sept. 26-Oct. 31. The course costs $99 (the $20 textbook fee is included in the tuition price) and will use The Official SAT Study Guide: For the New SAT. The courses will be held in Penn State Fayette’s Corporate Training Center in the Eberly Building.

The deadline to register for the Sept. 2-Oct. 7 course is Tuesday, Sept. 1. The deadline to register for the Sept. 26-Oct. 31 course is Wednesday, Sept. 23.
 

Call 724-430-4211 for more information or to register.
]]> Fri, 28 Aug 2009 10:42:48 EST /Information/News/Archive/31010.htm Coal and Coke Heritage Music Festival tickets available at regional outlets /Information/News/Archive/31011.htm Tickets for the September 19 Coal and Coke Heritage Festival will be available beginning Monday, August 31, at several regional outlets and by telephone for anyone wishing to purchase tickets for $10 in advance. Tickets at the gate will be $15. Children age 4 and younger get in free.

The annual festival runs from noon to dusk on Saturday, September 19, and features music, ethnic foods, regional arts and crafts, and a free Kiddie Koal Mine children’s area.

Grammy-winner Michelle Branch will be the headliner at the festival. Other performers include The Fabulous Hubcaps, Harold Betters, NewLanders, the Augsburg German Band, SNAP!, Bobby Reed & Jerry Onesi Trio, Stereotype, and a variety of local music and dance ensembles.

Coal and Coke Heritage Music Festival tickets are being sold at Centra Bank offices in southwestern Pennsylvania and West Virginia, at the State Theater in Uniontown, at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus, and by phone at 724-430-4101. On September 12 and 13 tickets also will be available at Uniontown Mall.

The Coal and Coke Heritage Music Festival debuted last year designed to celebrate the unique heritage of southwestern Pennsylvania’s coal and coke history and heritage. Penn State Fayette is located on Route 119 between Uniontown and Connellsville, Pa.

]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:41:06 EST /Information/News/Archive/31011.htm Special seminars address questions from adults considering college /Information/News/Archive/31007.htm
Apryl Kadish, adult admissions counselor at Penn State Fayette, says a lot of factors come into play when an adult decides to go to college for the first time or return to college to finish a degree. “Questions arise, such as: How can they complete their degree quickly, what learning options are available to them, and what careers are available that will lead to employment opportunities? The seminars will answer these kinds of questions.”

The adult seminars at Penn State Fayette are free, open to the public, and scheduled on the first Tuesday of each month this fall, beginning September 1. The sessions will be held from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. in the Corporate Training Center, in the Eberly Building. Adults can attend any or all of the sessions.

The adult seminars include:
  • September 1—“College Credits for Prior Learning Experiences” explains how adults can turn prior college-level learning experiences, such as credits earned at another university, education in the workplace, self-taught study, or military experience, into college credits they can use to pursue a degree program.
  • October 6—“Blended Learning at Penn State” explores educational classroom options. Adults will learn about blended classes, hybrid courses and online classes, and how these classroom options compare to traditional classroom learning.
  • November 3—“Occupational/Career Outlook” looks at employment opportunities in Fayette County and how this information affects what majors adults should consider when selecting a program of study.

For more information and to reserve a seat for any of the adult seminars, call Kadish at 724-430-4124.
]]> Thu, 27 Aug 2009 09:23:25 EST /Information/News/Archive/31007.htm Penn State Fayette welcomes students from around the world /Information/News/Archive/31002.htm
Penn State Fayette Chancellor Emmanuel I. Osagie is proud of the campus’ attractiveness to students from around the world. “Our students from India and the additional international students this fall are our campus’ first direct admittance of students from abroad. Penn State Fayette is now truly a global campus. The fabric of our campus community is changing and gaining more texture. Not only will these international students become aware of Fayette County and southwestern Pennsylvania as they advance their education, our region will have an opportunity to learn more about other cultures and our global village. There is an opportunity for learning across the region.”

Manu Maria John and Saumya Sebastian arrived at the Fayette campus in the spring to begin the RN to BS in nursing degree program. Both young women had obtained a diploma in nursing in India, but they wanted to earn a bachelor of science degree as well. It took six months for the paperwork and arrangements to be made, but they completed their first semester at the campus and will be joined by other international students as the fall semester begins August 24.

Sebastian says the transition provided some challenges, but not too many. “This is a wonderful place. Compared to India it is so developed. We may have felt some difficulty at first, but not long.” John agrees, saying, “At first we had some language problems, but that resolved very shortly.”

Southwestern Pennsylvania offered the young women several new experiences, such as snow. Sebastian says, “We only saw it on television before.”

Some of the new experiences had to do with higher education in the United States. John explains, “Test taking is not the same. In India long answers are typical. Here multiple choice and short essays seem to be the rule.”

Interacting with adult students is something John and Sebastian enjoy. John says, “In India, most people 30 and older already have master’s degrees. Here we like that older adults continue to pursue their education.” They have made nice friends here they say.

Penn State Fayette has joined a small community among Penn State campuses—it is one of eight campuses in addition to the University Park campus with the international campus designation. Brian Fernandes, director of Student and Enrollment Services, says having international students on campus raises the experience quotient for the campus’ students, faculty and staff. “Across the board, the interaction with students from around the world will definitely be a bonus for our campus community, and the community at-large. The intercultural experiences everyone will be able to share are especially important in today’s world—there will be learning inside and outside the classroom. In addition, we are looking forward to the opportunities this designation gives us to recruit prospective students from around the world.”

The role of helping to ease the international students into the campus community falls to Dr. Susan Crampton-Frenchik, the campus’ French instructor and coordinator of the International and Intercultural Programs Office. Crampton-Frenchik observes, “Galvanized by an increasingly inter-connected world, it is exhilarating to celebrate world cultures here. We are all so fortunate to be able to share our rich heritage with these international students as they help us to expand our cultural and academic horizons. We are eager to welcome these new students and embrace our global village.”

Osagie adds, “The international experience also will go a long way in illustrating to our students how what happens around the world affects us here in southwestern Pennsylvania, and vice versa. Our local students and the international students will have a unique opportunity to see and embrace the differences and commonalities we all have.”

International Students
Penn State Fayette nursing students from India Manu Maria John (left) and Saumya Sebastian (right) are joined by Susan Crampton-Frenchik, French instructor and coordinator of the campus’ International and Intercultural Programs Office.
]]> Wed, 19 Aug 2009 09:42:22 EST /Information/News/Archive/31002.htm Grammy-winner Michelle Branch to headline Coal and Coke Heritage Music Festival /Information/News/Archive/31000.htm Grammy-winner Michelle Branch will be the headliner at the 2009 Coal and Coke Heritage Music Festival Michelle BranchSeptember 19 at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus in Uniontown, Pa. The young country music singer-songwriter is preparing to release a new album this fall. Her performance rounds out the festival’s musical entertainment, which showcases a wide range of music types.

The annual music festival, now in its second year, will also feature:

  • The Fabulous Hubcaps—one of the country’s most requested oldies and classic rock bands
  • Harold Betters—nationally-renowned jazz great and local musician
  • NewLanders—singers-songwriters of popular folk and contemporary songs that capture the American experience
  • The Augsburg German Band—regional favorite for polka and German music
  • SNAP!—covering classic rock and pop, and some original music
  • Bobby Reed & Jerry Onesi Trio—musicians offering jazz and swing
  • Stereotype—a local teen band that plays music from the 60s, 70s and 80s
  • Local church choirs, student bands and more


Festival planning co-chair Gina Jones says, “The comments we heard from people who attended our festival last year were very positive and many are already planning to come to this year’s Coal and Coke Heritage and Music festival on September 19. Attendees really liked that we had a wide variety of musical entertainers and we repeated that aspect of the festival. What people can expect is several new acts this year, as well as the return of a few popular favorites.”

Penn State Fayette Chancellor Emmanuel I. Osagie says Michelle Branch’s appearance at the festival is an important addition to the lineup of entertainers. “When the Coal and Coke Heritage Music Festival debuted last year we wanted to highlight the talent of local and regional entertainers, but we also wanted to feature a national act that would offer a unique opportunity and experience for our area. Last year it was the Atlanta Drumline. This year we welcome rising country music entertainer Michelle Branch.”

The 26-year-old Branch was born and raised in Sedona, Ariz. She was a solo recording artist in the early 2000s, and teamed up with Santana in 2002 to record “The Game of Love,” which won a Grammy Award for Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals. Later she moved to Nashville and hit the country music scene as part of the duo The Wreckers in the mid 2000s. The group’s album Stand Still, Look Pretty was nominated for both a Country Music Award (CMA) and a Grammy. After The Wreckers split, she returned to a solo career and is currently finishing a new album, featuring her new single “Everything Comes and Goes.”

Coal and Coke Heritage Music FestivalThe Coal and Coke Heritage Music Festival debuted last year designed to celebrate the unique heritage of southwestern Pennsylvania’s coal and coke history and heritage—one of the highlights of the festival being the Coal and Coke Heritage Center housed on the Penn State Fayette campus. To appeal to the whole family, the festival features music, ethnic foods, regional arts and crafts, and a free Kiddie Koal Mine children’s area.

The Coal and Coke Heritage Music Festival kicks off at noon Saturday, September 19, and wraps up around dusk. Tickets go on sale August 19. For more information, call 724-430-4101.

Penn State Fayette is located on Route 119 between Uniontown and Connellsville, Pa.

]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:41:03 EST /Information/News/Archive/31000.htm Penn State Fayette athletes inducted into hall of fame /Information/News/Archive/30998.htm Representing the women's volleyball team are Alex Rossi, (second from left from Yough High School) and Healther Kelly, far right (USCAA All-American Honorable Mention and All-PSUAC from Elizabeth Forward High School). Freshman women's basketball player Carey Cox, left, (Windber High School) was named to the 2009 PSUAC All-Conference team, While senior baseball player Bobby Fulton, second from right (Connellsville High School), was named to the PSUAC All-Conference team. Not shown in the photo is junior Bethany Novotny, who was named to the USCAA All-Academic Team in both basketball and softball.
 
]]> Tue, 28 Jul 2009 16:35:44 EST /Information/News/Archive/30998.htm CONSOL Energy makes $25,000 gift to Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/30996.htm CONSOL Energy has given a gift of $25,000 to the Mining Technology Associate Degree Program at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. Receiving the gift on behalf of the campus is mining technology instructor Larry Hunchuck (center), who is joined by mining technology students Tim Woodrum (left) and Justin Elliott, both of whom also work for CONSOL. Penn State’s associate degree program in mining technology is offered only at the Fayette campus. The program provides students the education they need to fast-track into supervisory positions in mining production and maintenance. ]]> Mon, 20 Jul 2009 08:24:06 EST /Information/News/Archive/30996.htm Red Raider Brian Grady joins Penn State Fayette’s basketball squad /Information/News/Archive/30995.htm Nittany Lion basketball team at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus next season. Grady (front, right) signed a letter of commitment recently, joined by Penn State Fayette basketball coach Adam Checkton (front, left), Uniontown Area High School principal Tom Colebank (back, left) and Uniontown Area High School athletic director John Fortugna. ]]> Thu, 23 Jul 2009 15:00:32 EST /Information/News/Archive/30995.htm High school seniors invited to “Spend a Summer Evening” at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/30994.htm
The event gives high school seniors an opportunity to experience what it’s like to attend college at Penn State. Participants are encouraged to take a campus tour and meet faculty, staff and students. Prospective students can also learn about Penn State’s 160 majors, including the seven bachelor’s degree programs and 10 associate degrees that can be completed at Penn State Fayette. Admissions staff will be on hand to answer questions about the application process and financial. There will also be a scavenger hunt, barbecue picnic and ice cream.

For more information and to register, call 724-430-4130, or register online at www.fayette.psu.edu.
]]> Mon, 13 Jul 2009 13:59:52 EST /Information/News/Archive/30994.htm Uniontown’s James Pratt to play basketball for Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/30992.htm Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus next season. Pratt (front, left) signed a letter of commitment recently, joined by his mother Lisa Rucker, and (back row, from left) Penn State Fayette basketball coach Adam Checkton, Uniontown Area High School principal Tom Colebank and Uniontown Area High School athletic director John Fortugna. Pratt was a point guard for the Uniontown Red Raiders, averaging 15 points per game and 10 assists.
]]> Thu, 09 Jul 2009 09:08:00 EST /Information/News/Archive/30992.htm Blue and White Golf Open Slated for July 24 /Information/News/Archive/30993.htm Planning Committee
Among those planning the annual Penn State Fayette Alumni Society Blue and White Golf Open to be held July 24 at Pleasant Valley Country Club in Connellsville are (from left): Wayne Port, Golf Committee chairman; Rita Gumbert, committee member; Lori Omatick, director of Development, Penn State Fayette; Jes Hutson, committee member; and JoAnn Harris, committee member.
]]> Thu, 09 Jul 2009 09:07:57 EST /Information/News/Archive/30993.htm Local adults earn new CDA child care certificates at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/30990.htm Eleven local women and one man make an even dozen who completed the first comprehensive Child Development Associate (CDA) credential class offered at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.

The CDA credential is a national certification program designed for individuals who work in child care with infants and toddlers or preschoolers in group settings, family care or home visiting situations. Program participants must complete 120 hours of formal child care education, covering such topics as child development and child behavior, how to manage a child care program, and legal issues. In addition to their formal education, they must complete a portfolio, write an autobiography, address various competency goals, investigate parent perceptions through parent questionnaires, have formal observation, and take a test and submit to a formal interview. The educational portion of the process took place at the Fayette campus beginning in late January and ending mid June.

Deborah Dennick-Ream, the program instructor, says, “The reality of the situation is that parents have to work, but between birth and five years of age is the prime learning time for children. The more child care instructors know, the better able they are to nurture young children and help them to grow.”

Inspired by the certification program, some of the CDA students plan to continue their education by earning formal degrees in human development and family studies at the Fayette campus. The CDA certificate program is planned to be offered again for a new group of students in the fall. Call 724-430-4211 for more information.

CDA Certification
CDA certification instructor Deborah Dennick-Ream (standing) talks to some of the local students completing the CDA program in June. From left: Cindy Klink of Uniontown, Joyce Nascimben of McClellantown, Jamie Kelley of Uniontown, Betty Darnell of Mt. Braddock, Misty DiMatteo of Uniontown, and Cynthia Landman of Smithfield.
]]> Thu, 02 Jul 2009 09:42:23 EST /Information/News/Archive/30990.htm Penn State Fayette Student Activities coordinators receive award /Information/News/Archive/30988.htm
The award recognizes employees who do an outstanding job coordinating a campus program during the school year. Long and Myers were nominated for the award by their colleagues and Penn State Fayette students. The award was presented by the University’s Division of Student Affairs.

Brian Fernandes, director of Student and Enrollment Services at Penn State Fayette, says the award was well deserved. “The student activities team at Penn State Fayette works hard to develop a full semester-long calendar of activities for our students. That our students nominated Chad and Vanessa for this award speaks highly of their dedication.”

(Myers was recently appointed assistant to the director of Student Affairs at Penn State New Kensington.)

Chad and Vanessa
From left: Chad Long, assistant to the director of Student Affairs at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus, and Vanessa Myers, 2008-2009 activities assistant at Penn State Fayette.
]]> Fri, 26 Jun 2009 16:18:03 EST /Information/News/Archive/30988.htm July is “Adult Student Month” at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/30987.htm Extended hours and specialists to focus on questions adults have about college.

Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus is focusing on adult students in July—offering extended hours and greater opportunity for one-on-one assistance with specialists in the campus’ Admissions office.

Apryl Kadish, a Penn State Fayette admissions counselor, says there is growing interest among adults to return to college for an advanced degree. “There are a number of factors driving the increased interest, including the economy, and we wanted to reach out in a special way to anyone wanting to learn more about higher education.”

But adults interested in college often have different concerns than recent high school graduates, she says. “They have questions about what degree programs might launch them into a viable career quickly or help them advance in their current career. The topic of financial aid also comes up, as does child care. We have specialists that can answer all of those questions.”

Also, many adults have not been in school for many years, so they are concerned about making the transition back into the classroom. Brian Fernandes, director of Enrollment and Student Services, says, “Penn State Fayette recognized this as an important concern of adults and we responded by developing a special ‘Bridge Program’ that can help adults get up to speed in subjects such as math and English.”

For convenience, Kadish says the campus is offering extended hours for adults to be able to get the information they need. “Adult students often have jobs and family responsibilities they need to work around, so our Admissions office will stay open late on Wednesdays in July—from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.” Other hours of the Penn State Fayette Admissions office in July are: Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information about “Adult Student Month,” call 724-430-4130.

]]> Fri, 26 Jun 2009 16:18:22 EST /Information/News/Archive/30987.htm Nancy Wheeler joins Penn State Fayette as new head volleyball coach /Information/News/Archive/30986.htm
Wheeler replaces Casey O’Brien, who led the team in 2008-2009 to the PSUAC Championship and an eighth place finish at the USCAA National Championship in his only season as head coach. He resigned in late spring.

Wheeler brings a strong reputation, a deep knowledge of volleyball, and a fine-tuned ability to teach the game. Capozzi reports, “She served as the head girl’s volleyball coach at Laurel Highlands High School from 2002-2006, with her squad capturing the 2006 section title and qualifying for the WPIAL Playoffs.  Wheeler was the head girl’s volleyball coach at Connellsville Area High School in 2007, where she coached the Connellsville Lady Falcons to the schools' first undefeated regular season and the Section 3AAA championship.”

Wheeler also serves as a coach in the Penn Highlands Junior Olympic Volleyball program.

Capozzi says, “Over the years, we have built a reputation of excellence for our volleyball program and I have no doubt that Nancy will bring that reputation of an even higher level. I think we are very fortunate to have someone as knowledgeable as Nancy leading our program.”
]]> Wed, 24 Jun 2009 16:02:46 EST /Information/News/Archive/30986.htm Science Forensics Program now in third year! /Information/News/Archive/30974.htm
The idea of Chancellor Emmanuel I. Osagie, Science Forensics: An Academic Pathway in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics is now beginning its third year at Penn State Fayette. New groups of students entering 9th and 10th grade are accepted into the program when it begins a new cycle each summer. The program’s coordinator, Penn State Fayette Instructor of Mathematics Nicole Perret, reports more than three dozen rising 9th graders are participating in the program’s 3-week June camp for 9th graders—and more than a dozen students have already signed up for the 9th grade camp beginning in July. Once in the program, students continue throughout their high school years. This summer a camp for students entering 10th grade is scheduled for July, while members of the original student group that launched the program are now entering 11th grade and will get together for their camp this month.

Ninth-grade Uniontown student Paige Nagy reports the program offers one-on-one help you don’t always get in high school. “The program’s counselors and instructors work with you right away. They made things more interesting than in regular school, so we pay attention and are more focused.”

Dr. Osagie explains, “We saw that there was a group of high school students in the region that needed extra attention. Frankly, the A and B students will do fine. Where we saw a need was with the students earning Cs and Ds. We established this program to help these students develop an interest and an understanding of STEM subjects and how they are part of our every-day world. If we can engage these students and raise them up we will be succeeding.”

Kyli Stoner, a 9th grader from Dunbar, says the program has helped her in both math and science. “With the hands-on activities I learn more, and it helps me to remember it better.” Not only does the program make the subjects exciting to learn, she says, “I learn how math and science applies to real life and how you can use it.”

Both Nagy and Stoner like the opportunity to meet and make friends with students from other area high schools. Nagy explains, “Meeting kids from other schools is helpful, too. We can compare subjects we study.” Stoner says, “It helps to interact and talk with students from other schools. We’ve become close friends because of Science Forensics.”

Cindy Hogan of South Connellsville is glad her son, T.J., is in the Science Forensics program. “The counselors and leaders are so at ease with the kids. I think that’s what makes the kids come alive. They have a great positive attitude and it’s very encouraging for the students.” Hogan says it’s good that the program continues throughout the school year, as well. “The after-school tutoring is a big help, too.”

The program is free for students who are eligible to participate, lunch is provided, and students can earn stipends for attending the program, both the summer camp and the eight weekend sessions during the school year. “I try to recruit more kids for the program. You can’t pass up these kinds of opportunities,” Hogan says.

Area students entering 9th or 10th grade in the fall who are currently earning Cs and Ds in math, science and English can still apply until June 26 to enter the Science Forensics program this summer. Contact Nicole Perret at 724-430-4269 for more information.
]]> Fri, 19 Jun 2009 13:50:10 EST /Information/News/Archive/30974.htm Penn State Fayette to debut Cross Country teams in fall /Information/News/Archive/30975.htm
“The addition of cross country brings the total number of intercollegiate sports offered at Penn State Fayette to eight,” Capozzi says. Currently Penn State Fayette offers intercollegiate sports in Men’s and Women’s Basketball, Men’s Baseball and Women’s Softball, Women’s Volleyball, and Men’s Golf.

Uniontown native Matt Girod brings a great deal of experience to his new role with Penn State Fayette’s cross country program. For the past five years he has been an assistant track and field coach at Uniontown Area High School, working primarily with the middle- and long-distance runners. A graduate of Bethany College in West Virginia, Girod is also in his second year as the head coach of the Boy’s Swimming and Diving team at Uniontown, where he is employed as a Spanish teacher.

At Bethany, Girod played soccer and ran track. During his playing career, the soccer team captured two President’s Athletic Conference championships and qualified for the NCAA Division III national championship. In track, he participated in the 400m, 800m and 1,600m individual events, as well as the 1,600m and 3,200m relay teams.

Girod says he is thrilled to have the opportunity to launch Penn State Fayette’s cross country program.  “Running has always been an important aspect of my life.  I want to be able to provide a healthy, competitive and self-building environment for any student athlete who wishes to be a part of the team.”

Capozzi adds, “We are really excited to bring cross country to our campus. And we are just as excited to have Matt as our first coach. With his experience and knowledge, we truly believe that he will be able to grow this program and make it successful.”

]]> Fri, 19 Jun 2009 13:50:16 EST /Information/News/Archive/30975.htm Yellow Ribbon Program to fund Penn State education for veterans /Information/News/Archive/30972.htm
Veterans who served after September 11, 2001, may be eligible for the funding, which will be made available through the Yellow Ribbon GI Education Enhancement Program, part of the post-9/11 GI Bill. The full tuition benefit takes effect this fall.

Eligible veterans enrolled as full-time students are entitled to a tuition and fees benefit, a monthly housing allowance, and a yearly stipend for books and supplies. Veterans may benefit from the Yellow Ribbon Program in a variety of degree programs, including two-year, four-year, and advanced degrees. Payment is based on the number of classes attended.

Brian Fernandes, director of Student and Enrollment Services at Penn State Fayette, says, “It is important to offer veterans an opportunity to obtain an education, continue their education, get training or be retrained at no cost to the student.”

Penn State Fayette offers a variety of degree programs. Two-year associate degree programs that can fast-track a veteran into a new career include: building engineering technology; business administration; electrical engineering technology; human development and family studies; information sciences and technology; letters, arts, and sciences; nanomanufacturing engineering technology; nursing, mining technology; and science. The campus’ four-year baccalaureate degrees include: administration of justice; business; English; human development and family studies; letters, arts, and sciences; nursing; and organizational leadership. Veterans can also take the first two years of more than 160 Penn State majors close to home at the Fayette campus, then transfer to another Penn State campus to complete their degree.

For more information or to register for Information Day for Veterans, call 724-430-4124.
]]> Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:14:11 EST /Information/News/Archive/30972.htm Penn State Fayette faculty and staff receive Excellence Awards /Information/News/Archive/30970.htm
The excellence awards for 2009 include:

2009 Administrative Excellence Award—presented to Instructional Materials Designer Bobby Salitrik, who received this award for her outstanding service to the Penn State Fayette campus, including working with the Lion Players’ Shakespeare performances, sharing her expertise in staging, sound effects and lighting techniques for cultural and community events on campus, assisting faculty and staff with their audio-visual needs, and working with students in the campus’ new Digital Commons.

2009 Scholarly Excellence Award—presented to Dr. Donald Liddick, associate professor of administration of justice, who in recent years published a book on eco-terrorism, a chapter in a respected collection of essays, a peer-reviewed journal article, and a number of encyclopedia entries related to his field of study.

2009 Teaching Excellence Award—presented to Dr. Joann Jankoski, assistant professor in human development and family studies, who is present for the students in the classroom, at athletic competitions and at many other activities on campus.

Adjunct Teaching Excellence Award—presented to Dr. Werner Pluhar, affiliate professor of philosophy, who has taught in the Philosophy Department at Penn State Fayette for more than 30 years. He has been described as the “model of a master teacher: always beautifully prepared and fascinating to learn from.” Dr. Pluhar retired from Penn State in May.

Barbara B. Solesky Staff Assistance Excellence Award—presented to Sherry Scully, administrative support assistant for Student and Enrollment Services, for her tireless efforts on campus in making it one of the region’s finest student-centered universities, and for her involvement in so many activities and events on campus which stand as a testament of her dedication to Penn State Fayette.

Ellen M. Laun Advising Excellence Award—presented to Bill Gardner, an instructor in business administration, for his commitment to Penn State Fayette’s students. Whether or not a student is his advisee, Gardner goes out of his way to provide assistance.

Also honored at the awards banquet were Penn State Fayette retirees Richard Cupelli, Geraldine Dorobish, Joy Fike and Patricia Zebrasky, as well as faculty and staff who reached significant years of service milestones:

  • Five years: Nathaniel Bohna, Frederick Botti, Lori Firestone, Vincent Gall, Dr. Joann Jankoski, Apryl Kadish, Sherry Scully, Kevin Slagle, Rosemary Williams and Billie Jo Yuhaniak
  • Ten years: Dr. Debra Evans Rhodes, Michelle Henrish, Dr. Janet Knott, Kevin Maxwell, Nicole Perret and Dr. John Rapano
  • Fifteen years: Janet Ritenour and Charlotte Stotelmyer
  • Twenty years: Dr. Fred Adams and Lynn Petko
  • Thirty years: David Meredith
See photos from the 2009 Celebrate Penn State Fayette awards banquet and dinner. ]]> Wed, 16 Sep 2009 09:57:01 EST /Information/News/Archive/30970.htm Educators and business leaders discuss partnerships at STEM conference /Information/News/Archive/30969.htm
Dr. Joseph Shostell, biology professor and the conference chair for Penn State Fayette, explains, “This first STEM conference was an important and necessary step to support STEM education in southwestern Pennsylvania and the surrounding region. Our objectives for the conference were to provide examples of newly developed technologies and methods that support quality teaching in public and private schools; to establish a dialogue between the business and education communities that highlights STEM jobs in the real world and their correlation with STEM curricula; and to provide a communication platform—a STEM hub, so to speak—that links school teachers to each other, as well as to scientists.”

Dina Kriebel, a chemistry teacher at Uniontown Area High School and a panel discussion participant at the conference, says the event was a very good start. “I was very encouraged by the STEM conference because it offered the opportunity to begin discussions about ways to strengthen STEM education in Fayette County.”

Guest speaker Barry Nathan of Catalyst Connection emphasized that post-secondary education is critical to educate workers who are technologically proficient. STEM education leads to intellectual capital, he pointed out.

According to statistics Nathan provided, southwestern Pennsylvania will need 100,000 people for STEM-related jobs over the next 15 years. “Information isn’t knowledge, we’re awash in information,” Nathan said. What we need are “people who know and understand science.”

Penn State Fayette Chancellor Dr. Emmanuel I. Osagie says he is very optimistic that partnerships between local educators and business leaders will grow as a result of the event. “Conferences like this one are important in bringing everyone together, not only to put their challenges on the table, but to work together to come up with solutions. The discussion and new ideas the STEM conference generated were encouraging, so we will look to continue to provide a venue and additional opportunities to increase awareness and initiatives for STEM education across the region.”

Stem Conference
Barry Nathan, guest speaker from Catalyst Connection, speaks to a room full of educators and business leaders about the need for technically-skilled workers at the Southwest Pennsylvania Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Conference held May 19 at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.
]]> Thu, 11 Jun 2009 09:39:28 EST /Information/News/Archive/30969.htm “Spend a Summer Evening” offers a taste of Penn State /Information/News/Archive/30967.htm
The evening is designed so high school seniors can experience what it’s like to attend college. Participants are encouraged to take a campus tour and meet faculty, staff and students. Prospective students can also learn about the six bachelor’s degree programs and 10 associate degrees that can be completed at Penn State Fayette, as well as Penn State’s 160 majors that can be started at the Fayette campus and completed at University Park or another Penn State campus. Admissions staff will be on hand at the event to answer questions about the application process and student aid. Other activities include a scavenger hunt, barbecue picnic and ice cream.

For more information and to register, call 724-430-4130, or register online at www.fayette.psu.edu.
]]> Wed, 10 Jun 2009 13:52:14 EST /Information/News/Archive/30967.htm Middle school students explore technical careers at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/30966.htm Madison Plaski, a 7th grader at Laurel Highlands Middle School, listens for heartbeat and lung sounds on Stephen, a pediatric simulator, as Penn State Fayette Instructor of Nursing Charlotte Stotelmyer looks on. Plaski was one of some 150 middle school students who visited Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus for Technical Career Exploration Day, part of the campus’ Tech Prep program, held May 28 and again on May 29. Students from Albert Gallatin, Brownsville, Laurel Highlands and Uniontown school districts participated, learning about such varied careers as nursing, emergency medical technician, engineering, science, math, mining, media technology and computer graphics. ]]> Fri, 29 May 2009 16:54:22 EST /Information/News/Archive/30966.htm Summer camps for youth and high school students at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/30964.htm
Four camps are designed for high school students, and two for younger students:
  • Health Care Career Camp, offered June 15-18 for grades 9-12, allows participants to explore careers in healthcare.  
  • A Step Into the Fashion World, offered July 20-23 for grades 9-12, gives students the opportunity to delve into the world of fashion, including skills and techniques for hair, nails and makeup.
  • Mining Camp, offered July 27-30 for grades 9-12, will explore the mysterious world of coal mining, through history to today’s technically-advanced industry.
  • For students ages 15-18 there’s SAT Prep Camp being held July 6-9.  
  • Etiquette Camp has two sessions: one June 20-23 for students aged 5-8; and one July 27-30 for students aged 9-13 years.  
  • Jr. High B-Ball for 7th to 9th graders will be offered June 22-25 for boys, and July 20-23 for girls.

The cost of the summer camp sessions range from $49-$99. For more information, a complete schedule or to register, call 724-430-4211 or visit www.fayette.psu.edu and click on Continuing Education.
]]> Fri, 29 May 2009 13:40:32 EST /Information/News/Archive/30964.htm Kids in College for students grades K-7 offers fun and learning /Information/News/Archive/30965.htm
Kids in College is designed for students in grades kindergarten through seventh grade, and features more than 60 different courses. For example: Sports and Fitness programs include basketball, yoga, dancing and more; Liberal Arts and History classes range from the history of ancient Greece to American history; and Arts and Crafts classes include art you can eat, scrapbooking, and an introduction to clay sculpting. The fee for each course is $55. There is a discount for students who take four classes or more.

For more information, a complete schedule or to register, call 724-430-4211, or visit www.fayette.psu.edu and click on Continuing Education.
]]> Fri, 29 May 2009 13:40:37 EST /Information/News/Archive/30965.htm “The Business of Art” to help artists, craftsmen hone business skills /Information/News/Archive/30963.htm
The Business of Art program is a partnership between the Fayette campus and Touchstone, and is designed for artists and craftsmen of all levels of expertise. Ten focused sessions will be offered, with two workshops each day of the week—the morning session from 9 a.m. to noon and the afternoon session from 1-4 p.m.

The scheduled topics and instructors include:

  • June 8:
    “Publicity and Promotion,” Susan Brimo-Cox, public relations professional and artist
    “Working with Galleries,” Darlene Durrwachter-Rushing, national award-winning artist
  • June 9:  
    “Marketing,” Peter Eberle, Penn State business instructor and consultant
    “Financing: Challenges and Solutions,” Jim Kunkle, from the Small Business Development Center at St. Vincent’s College
  • June 10:
    “Photographing Your Work,” David Romero, commercial photographer and Web designer
    “Web Site Design,” David Romero, commercial photographer and Web designer
  • June 11:
    “Selling Your Work on the Internet,” Derrick Banas, small business consultant and trainer
    “Legal issues,” Wayne Port, business attorney and Penn State instructor
  • June 12:
    “Customer Relationship Management,” Derrick Banas, small business consultant and trainer
    “Graphic Design for Artists,” Donna Painter, graphic designer

Interested students can take one or more classes, or the whole week. The cost of the program is $59 per course, $99 per day, or $459 for all 10 sessions. For more information or to register, call 724-430-4211, or obtain a registration form online at www.fayette.psu.edu and clicking on Continuing Education. Lodging and meals are available at Touchstone by calling 724-329-1370.

]]> Tue, 26 May 2009 15:06:20 EST /Information/News/Archive/30963.htm William Blaney named 2009 Penn State Fayette Outstanding Fellow /Information/News/Archive/30956.htm
The “Outstanding Fellow of Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus” was established in 1985 by two local businessmen. Their intent was to honor a community leader whose support of the campus had been so exemplary as to warrant special recognition by the advisory board and the campus’ administration, faculty, staff and students. Penn State Fayette does not grant honorary degrees, so the Outstanding Fellow Award is the highest honor the campus can bestow. The recipients of this award possess the qualities that truly epitomize the phrase, “Penn State proud.”

“Bill Blaney has been an advocate of Penn State Fayette for many years,” Osagie says. “As a Penn State alumnus, Bill has a strong connection with the University, but his support of the Fayette campus is noteworthy. It is obvious in everything he does—from his active participation as a member of the advisory board to his volunteer efforts on many campus projects, such as the inaugural Blues and White Gala to raise funds for scholarships in April—that Bill is committed to partnering with us to provide the residents of Fayette County and southwestern Pennsylvania the quality education that is the hallmark of Penn State.”

Blaney graduated from Uniontown High School in 1966, earned a bachelor’s degree in Ag Business Management from Penn State University in 1970, and an MBA degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1991.

Upon graduation from Penn State, Blaney worked for Agway Inc., moving up to a store management position in 1972, at which time he managed four different locations with increased responsibility over the next five years.

In 1976, he left Agway to join his brothers in the fledgling company of Blaney Farms. First as a truck driver, then as a dispatcher, he learned the business from the ground up. He is now the corporation’s vice president and general manager and, with the exception of maintenance, oversees virtually all aspects of the trucking operation.

Blaney is an active community member, focused on, among other things, the promotion of industrial development and education. He is a member and elder in the Pleasant View Presbyterian Church. He serves as an officer and board member of the Uniontown Rotary Club; the district secretary-treasurer of Rotary District 7330; immediate past president of the Fayette Chamber of Commerce; a member of the executive board of the Fayette Chamber; a member of the Advisory Board of Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus; an officer and executive committee member for the Fay-Penn Economic Development Council; and an executive committee member of the Fay-Penn Industrial Development Corp. He also is involved with Chestnut Ridge Counseling Service, Fayette County’s Transportation Executive Committee, the Public Participation Panel, and the Westmoreland-Fayette Workforce Investment Board.
Outstanding Fellow

Pictured from the left: Wayne H. Port, chairman of The Advisory Board of Penn State Fayette; William Blaney, recipient of the 24th Outstanding Fellow of Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus Award; and Dr. Emmanuel I. Osagie, chancellor of Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus.
]]> Fri, 15 May 2009 13:05:39 EST /Information/News/Archive/30956.htm Penn State Fayette students receive awards for excellence /Information/News/Archive/30934.htm More than 50 students of Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus received awards for leadership, scholastic excellence and athletic achievements at a special awards banquet May 1.

Among the evening’s top honors were:

The Eric A. and Josephine S. Walker Award, named in honor of the late Penn State President and Mrs. Eric Walker, was presented to John Marcolini. The award was established in 1971 to recognize a full-time undergraduate student who best demonstrates the outstanding qualities of character, scholarship, leadership and citizenship. Marcolini is involved and holds leadership roles in many campus community organizations, such as the Student Activities Committee, Student Government Association, THON Team, Lion Ambassadors, Orientation Team, Diversity Task Force, Lion Players, Coal and Coke Heritage Music Festival Committee, and Soccer Club.  He also is actively involved with Intercollegiate Athletics and volunteers for numerous community service initiatives including the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign, Youth Soccer and Tennis Camps, and Adopt-A-Highway Litter Control.

The Dennis Hippo Memorial Award, in honor of Dennis Hippo, a member of Penn State Fayette’s first graduating class who was killed in action in Vietnam, is presented to one male and one female full-time student each year who most exemplify the attributes and contributions of Dennis Hippo in the areas of service, leadership, campus and community involvement, academic persistence and altruism. This year’s recipients are Eric Long and Heather Vorrasi. Long, a sophomore majoring in nuclear and mechanical engineering, has been highly involved in a variety of campus organizations, including Student Government Association, Lion Ambassadors, Student Activities Committee, Blue and White Society, THON Team, Outing and Adventure Club, Orientation Team, and Pi Sigma Phi Honors Society.  He also has been involved with the “Hoops for Hope” campaign benefiting local charities, and is an Eagle Scout. Vorrasi, a junior majoring in administration of justice, is involved in the Administration of Justice Society, for which she serves as president, and she also is active in the community as a Girl Scout troop leader and with the Salvation Army’s Toys for Tots.

    The Penn State Fayette Student of the Year Award was presented to Brianne Nero. The award recognizes students who demonstrate strong values in teamwork, overcome obstacles to succeed in their endeavors, display altruism, aid in the improvement of the campus as a whole, and possess Penn State spirit. Nero, a sophomore special education major, has been involved in many campus activities, including Pi Sigma Phi Honors Society, Student Government Association, Student Activities Committee, Lion Ambassadors, Business Society, and Christian Club. She also served as the 2009 THON chair, an philanthropic event which raises money for children with cancer. Nero’s leadership helped the campus students raise more than $71,000 for THON.  In addition, Nero serves on the intercollegiate women’s volleyball team.

The Scholastic Excellence Award, sponsored by the Penn State Fayette Advisory Board, is the highest academic award on campus. The Scholastic Excellence Award is based not only on high grades, but also on a rigorous competition of written and oral academic research presentations. This year’s finalists were Ingrid Carlberg, Alicia Daerr and Bobbie Jo Smith. Daerr was the award recipient.

The complete list of student award winners include:

Leadership Awards
•    Eric A. and Josephine S. Walker Award: John Marcolini
•    Dennis Hippo Memorial Award: Eric Long and Heather Vorrasi

University Awards
•    Evan Pugh Scholar Award: Janice Collins
•    Rock Ethics Stand Up Award: Hilary Griffith
•    President Sparks Award: Kayla Nuccetelli, Michael Pecsko and Jessica Smell
•    Freshman President’s Awards: Erick Capenos, Roberto Delgado, Amber DiDominic, Kimberly Heisterman, Brenda Kelley, Jessica Kodric, Cody Spangler, Jill Spencer and Michael Tandarich

Academic Awards
•    Administration of Justice Student of the Year Award:  Vicky Spells
•    Undergraduate Research Award in Biology: Jamel Lewis and Robert Gratson
•    Associates in Business Award: Connie Erminio
•    Bachelors of Science in Business Award: Jared Ealy and Jamie Marciante
•    English and American Studies Award: Cynthia Simons-Bellina
•    Human Development & Family Studies Award: Cathy Zimmerman
•    Kinesiology Award: Bob Whyel (Fall), Christina Wilson (Spring)
•    Leadership Excellence in Mining Award: David Voda
•    Margaret Reilly Skomra Nursing Award: Cynthia Cale
•    Thelma Sandy Award in Nursing: Toni Thomas
•    Philosophy Award: Philip Cooper and Audra Tewell

Campus Awards
•    Student of the Year: Brianne Nero
•    Scholastic Excellence Award Winner: Alicia Daerr
•    Port Family Public Service Award: John Marcolini
•    Rita P. Peters Scholarship: Michael Pecsko
•    Learning Fair Winners: “Coal: Past, Present and Future”—Nancy Chen, Steve Keller, Claire Slack and Cynthia Simons-Bellina
•    Club of the Year Award: Administration of Justice Society

Athletic Awards
•    United States Collegiate Athletic Association Academic All-American Honors:
Lauren Golden, Brianne Nero and Bethany Novotny
•    United States Collegiate Athletic Association All-American Team Honorable Mention: Heather Kelly, Katie Sleasman and Alex Rossi
•    Penn State University Athletic Conference (PSUAC) All-Conference First Team Honors: Heather Kelly, Katie Sleasman and Samantha Hawk (volleyball); Carey Cox (women’s basketball); Jennifer Lewellen, Bethany Novotny and Jennifer Tressler (women’s softball); and Robert Fulton (baseball)
•    PSUAC All-Conference Honorable Mention: Alex Rossi (volleyball)
•    Men’s Baseball MVP: Robert Fulton
•    Men’s Baseball Most Improved: Rich Miller
•    Men’s Basketball MVP: Jonathan Eicher
•    Men’s Basketball Most Improved: Anthony Howard
•    Women’s Basketball MVP: Carey Cox
•    Women’s Basketball Most Improved: Sara Johnson
•    Women’s Softball MVP: Bethany Novotny
•    Women’s Softball Outstanding Leadership: Ashley Ruble
•    Women’s Volleyball: MVP: Heather Kelly
•    Women’s Volleyball Outstanding Freshman: Katie Sleasman

]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:41:00 EST /Information/News/Archive/30934.htm First Blues and White Gala nets nearly $34,000 for student scholarships /Information/News/Archive/30927.htm More than 150 attended the inaugural Blues and White Gala scholarship fundraising event hosted by Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus on April 18 at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort—and the generosity of those individuals resulted in nearly $34,000 being raised for student scholarships.

Lori Omatick, director of development for the campus and the gala event chairman, says, “We are thrilled by the outcome of this event! We were hopeful that the community would feel strongly that scholarships are important to help Fayette County residents attend Penn State Fayette. In the end, the outcome definitely exceeded our expectations, which is tremendous news for our students.”

Some 1,100 students attend the Fayette campus, which is Fayette County’s only four-year institution of higher learning. Brian Fernandes, director of Student and Enrollment Services, reports, “Scholarships are very important to a majority of our students. Ninety percent of Penn State Fayette students have a demonstrated need for financial aid, and 75 percent of the students who receive financial aid do not receive all of the assistance they need. The funds raised by the Blues and White Gala will go a long way in closing that gap for a number of our students—new enrollments who will begin classes in the fall as well as returning students in their second year or beyond.”

The gala also was an opportunity for Penn State Fayette to recognize two individuals—one in the private sector and one in the public sector—who have been very supportive of Penn State Fayette: a “Friend of Penn State Fayette” Nittany Lion statue was presented to Joseph Hardy III and another to Congressman John Murtha (who was unable to attend, but represented by Mark Critz).

The gala’s planning committee included campus and community leaders, who sought event sponsors and auction items, designed and produced the event’s promotional items and program, and made all the arrangements. Penn State Fayette students and the Nittany Lion were on hand the evening of the event to assist attendees with the auctions.

Penn State Fayette Chancellor Emmanuel Osagie says the campus is grateful for the outpouring of support from the community. “I want to thank everyone who partnered with us to provide local students access and affordability of the quality education Penn State University offers. One-hundred percent of the proceeds from the event will be distributed as scholarships in the year ahead.”

Some of the gala’s key sponsors included Elouise R. Eberly, Advanced Acoustic Concepts, Robert and Meg Eberly III, Ford Business Machines, Nemacolin Woodlands/84 Lumber, Joshua and Maria Swimmer, BAE Systems, Ida M. Procyk, CRH Catering, Foundation Coal, Jackson Farms, Attorney and Mrs. Wayne H. Port, and Uniontown Mall.

The Blues and White Gala will be an annual fundraiser for scholarships at Penn State Fayette. The next gala is slated for April 17, 2010.

Blus and White Gala
Penn State Fayette Chancellor Emmanuel Osagie (left) presents a “Friend of Penn State Fayette” Nittany Lion to Joseph Hardy III at the inaugural Penn State Fayette Blues and White Gala. (photo credit: Furnace Hill Photography)

]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:40:57 EST /Information/News/Archive/30927.htm Women’s Day program May 21 features artist-blacksmith as keynote speaker /Information/News/Archive/30898.htm
The featured speaker for the 2009 Women’s Day is Ed Claypoole, a motivational speaker hailing from Uniontown. Claypoole is an artist-blacksmith, professional strongman and has been a pastor for 10 years. He utilizes the adversity he’s faced in his own life—a premature birth at 3 pounds, a failed marriage after 23 years and potentially crippling injuries—to connect with a variety of people from all walks of life, encouraging them to never give up.

Other Women’s Day workshops include: “Committing to a Greener Lifestyle: Overcoming the Obstacles” presented by Deb Augustine, a professional organizing consultant; “Bring Your Smile to Life” presented by Dr. Aurelio Cecchini Jr., DDS,  dentist with more than 20 years experience in private practice; and “Think Globally, Act Locally” presented by David Meredith, Penn State Fayette associate professor of engineering.

Nearly 30 area agencies and businesses will be represented in the Community Service and Informational Fair. Women’s Day participants can obtain information about services and volunteer opportunities these organizations provide at several times during the course of the day.

Women’s Day Chair Harriet Galida says, “This year’s event has something for everyone. We have streamlined the workshops, provided many opportunities for attendees to gather information at the Community Service and Informational Fair, and we have a special gift for everyone at lunch. In keeping with our ‘Green’ theme, lunch will be distributed in re-usable, insulated lunch bags. After 27 Women’s Day events, the planning committee still is able to come up with a program that is fresh, different and pertinent to a broad cross-section of women in the local area.”

Registration for Women’s Day is required and participation is limited, so a first-come, first-served policy applies. Registration by May 15 is $21; after May 15 it costs $23. For more information or to register, call 724-430-4141.
]]> Mon, 04 May 2009 17:27:41 EST /Information/News/Archive/30898.htm Penn State Fayette to Host Employer Networking Event May 8 /Information/News/Archive/30897.htm The Career Services and Internship Center at Penn State Fayette, the Eberly Campus, in conjunction with Penn State Shenango, will present “Generation NeXt Goes to Work: Issues in Workplace Readiness and Performance” on May 8 at the Fayette campus. “Generation NeXT Goes to Work” is an event designed to help businesses and organizations understand the up-and-coming workforce of young adults called “Generation NeXt.”

Dr. Mark Taylor will present the keynote address. Taylor is a nationally-recognized educator, expert, speaker and consultant dedicated to helping businesses and organizations better manage the multi-generational workplace, and to successfully bring younger workers into productive roles. Today’s young workers from Generation NeXt are entering the workforce with characteristics and expectations that present unique challenges to those responsible for recruiting, orienting and initiating them into the professional world, as well as those supervising, managing and retaining them once they get there. While recruiters and managers might find many of these young people to be adaptable and technologically savvy, they may also see consumers in the job market who do not expect to “pay dues” and resent the traditional organizational structure. This session will provide attendees with a better understanding of the development and predictable issues of Generation NeXt, and describe what organizations and managers can do to help them transition into and be successful in the professional workplace.

“Generation NeXt Goes to Work” will be held at the Penn State Fayette Community Center. Doors open at noon; the keynote address begins promptly at 12:30 p.m. A networking reception will follow the presentation. Each participating organization will receive one free registration; a $25 fee will be charged for each additional attendee. All participants must register for this event no later than May 5. For additional information or to register, contact the Career Services and Internship Center at 724-430-4123.

]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:40:53 EST /Information/News/Archive/30897.htm Commencement services to be held at Penn State Fayette May 16 /Information/News/Archive/30896.htm Douglas J. Leech Jr. Commencement services for Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus will be held May 16, beginning at 10 a.m. in the main arena of the campus’ Community Center. Some 140 graduates are expected to participate.

The commencement speaker will be Douglas J. Leech Jr., Penn State alumnus and founder, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Centra Financial Holdings Inc. and Centra Bank Inc., formed in 1999 as a community-centered banking company. An honors graduate of the Pennsylvania State University, Leech and the company he founded received national attention in 2007 and 2008, when both Entrepreneur and Inc. magazines ranked Centra Bank as a top performer in their respective lists of the nation’s fastest-growing companies. Leech also has appeared on Fox News, NBC News, National Public Radio, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and several other national and international media sources as the first banker in the country to return the United States Treasury’s TARP funding, which banks throughout the nation received as part of the Economic Stimulus package.

Leech has held leadership positions in more than 30 organizations and has been recognized many times for his contributions and accomplishments. Through the years, he has made it a priority to assist and get involved in activities that lead to the betterment of the local community. In 2008, Leech was presented the “Outstanding Alumnus of Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus Award.” He has been a member of the Board of Directors-Schreyer Honors College, the Pennsylvania State University, since 2003.

Penn State associate professor of English Dr. Beverly Peterson will be the commencement marshal.
]]> Fri, 01 May 2009 10:10:19 EST /Information/News/Archive/30896.htm Dr. Pluhar-Adams receives University’s top teaching award /Information/News/Archive/30885.htm Dr. Pluhar-Adams Dr. Evelyn Pluhar-Adams, professor of philosophy at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus, was awarded the George W. Atheron Award for Excellence in Teaching by Penn State University. The award recognizes excellence in teaching and student support among tenured faculty who have been employed full time for at least three years, with undergraduate teaching as a major portion of their duties. George W. Atherton was the seventh president of Penn State University.

Pluhar-Adams has been teaching philosophy at Penn State Fayette for 30 years. She specializes in the ethics of moral theory and has taught a variety of courses, ranging from Environmental Philosophy to Existentialism. She has written a book, “Beyond Prejudice: The Moral Significance of Human and Nonhuman Animals,” published by Duke University Press. Dr. Pluhar-Adams also serves as the faculty advisor to the scholastic honor society of Pi Sigma Phi.

Pluhar-Adams says she is “absolutely thrilled” to win the award. “Penn State has been the most wonderful place to work,” she explains. “It’s like a big family and I love learning from my colleagues in different fields.  I have learned so much from my students as well.  With our small campus size, it is possible to connect personally with them.  It is a great joy to help them set and achieve their educational goals, and to see them relate real life issues to the classroom.  They are a perpetual source of inspiration to me.”  Pluhar-Adams adds, “I’m living out my dream of being a philosopher, thanks to Penn State.”

The George W. Atherton Award for Excellence in Teaching is presented to only four faculty members each year and is considered one of the University’s most prestigious awards.
]]> Wed, 29 Apr 2009 15:58:54 EST /Information/News/Archive/30885.htm May 19 STEM Conference set to bring educators and business together /Information/News/Archive/30884.htm
Penn State Fayette Chancellor Dr. Emmanuel I. Osagie explains, “Fayette County and the southwestern Pennsylvania area has tremendous potential for growth in the high-tech and science-related industries, but not enough students are interested in pursuing the science and technology subjects that can lead them to exciting, high-paying careers. Educators say they need assistance in making these subjects more exciting and engaging for the students. Well, that’s where area businesses can become involved—by creating partnerships in education. Our aim is to bring educators and industry together to begin to correct this disconnect.”

The STEM conference’s keynote speaker is Robert Daley, who will address STEM from an employer’s perspective. Daley’s background is in working with entrepreneurial and early-stage companies, helping them evaluate markets, develop business strategies and raising and structuring capital. He is the CEO of 4moms, a company that offers products to make routine tasks more enjoyable for parents and children. He earned his undergraduate degree in finance from the University of Virginia and an MBA from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University.

David Meredith, Penn State Fayette associate professor of engineering, will give his presentation “High Tech in Fayette County” that will highlight more than 20 products the world looks to our region to obtain. “The number and scope of high-tech firms in Fayette County is often underestimated,” Meredith says, “but things made in Fayette County are used around the world.”

The conference also will address best practices in STEM education. Last fall, science, technology and math teachers across Fayette County were surveyed to develop a compilation of best teaching practices. The results of the survey will be shared at the May 19 conference, and the Center for the Advancement of STEM Education (CASE) will offer a variety of STEM classroom opportunities.

The May 19 STEM Conference at Penn State Fayette begins at 8 a.m. and concludes at 3:15 p.m. It will be held in the campus’ Community Center. Educators and business leaders interested in participating can register online at http://solutionwhere.com/iu1. Breakfast and lunch are provided. The registration fee is $10; registration and five Act 48 hours for educators is $25. For more information, call Keith Golebie at Intermediate Unit 1 at 724-938-3241 ext. 250. A flier about the conference is available online at www.fayette.psu.edu, then click on Continuing Education.
]]> Tue, 28 Apr 2009 15:24:08 EST /Information/News/Archive/30884.htm Study documents Penn State Fayette’s contributions to Pa. economy /Information/News/Archive/30880.htm Penn State’s impact extends well beyond its teaching and research. In fact, Penn State is Pennsylvania’s largest economic engine, generating more than $17 billion a year in overall economic impact and supporting more than 67,000 jobs. Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus, was responsible for nearly $79.5 million of that amount, and accounts for more than 370 jobs in the region.

In an independent report released April 23, data show that Penn State not only is fueling the growth of Pennsylvania by directly generating nearly $8.5 billion in economic impact but also influences an additional $8.7 billion through business services, research commercialization and the activities of alumni.

On the local level, the Fayette campus infused $45.9 million into the Fayette County economy, $27 million of that in direct business volume.

“The figures this study reports demonstrate not only the impact Penn State has as a whole on the state economy, but also the significant economic impact Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus, has on Fayette County and southwestern Pennsylvania as a region,” Penn State Fayette Chancellor Emmanuel I. Osagie said. “We consider our campus to be an important community partner—not just an academic institution serving the region—and this study highlights many of our economic contributions.”

According to the study conducted by Pittsburgh-based Tripp Umbach Inc., in 2008 Penn State Fayette spent nearly $2.5 million for capital improvements, goods and services, and supplies; spending that went into Pennsylvania’s economy, in part through local contractors and vendors.

“In addition to campus spending on improvements, goods and services, our direct payroll is a significant benefit to the local economy,” Osagie said. The study shows, adjusting for out-of-state employees, savings and taxes, Penn State Fayette employees received a total of $4.6 million in their payroll checks. “Faculty and staff at Penn State Fayette are among the highest paid individuals in Fayette County,” Osagie added.

Student and out-of-state visitor spending also contribute to the vitality of the region.

“Because Penn State Fayette students all live off campus, their spending for housing, food, transportation and entertainment is spent directly in the local economy,” Osagie explained. “The study reports that in 2008 Penn State Fayette students pumped nearly $19.4 million into the economy.”

Visitors also come to Penn State Fayette from out-of-state to attend cultural or sporting events, conferences on campus, and to visit students and employees. “When they do, they spend money in the area for a variety of things, including accommodations, meals, gifts and other services,” Osagie said. The study puts spending by out-of-state visitors to the Fayette campus at $8.2 million.
“This study is a testament to Penn State Fayette’s commitment as a strong partner in this region, working to not only provide a top-notch education for residents of Fayette County and the region, but also to boost the economy of Fayette County and southwestern Pennsylvania,” Osagie added.

Penn State contributes in a variety of ways to the vitality of Pennsylvania’s economy. According to the report, the University generated more than 2 percent of the state’s business volume or more than $1 out of every $50 dollars in the state’s total economy. In addition, Penn State leverages its state funding. For every dollar invested in 2008 by the Commonwealth to support the operations of Penn State, the University returned $25.06 in economic impact to Pennsylvania.

The four-month study by Pittsburgh-based Tripp Umbach indicates that Penn State’s impact far outweighs other industries in the state. With the total direct, indirect and induced annual economic impact equaling more than $17 billion, the University currently creates more impact than the combined total impact of all of the state’s airport hubs, professional sports teams, and arts and cultural organizations, by attracting nearly 1 million visitors and channeling more than $1.73 billion annually into Pennsylvania’s economy.

Additional key findings in the 2009 Tripp Umbach report include:

  • The University annually expends more than $700 million through its research activities. Research at Penn State supports more than 18,000 additional jobs in Pennsylvania, which generates more than $1.9 billion in additional economic impact and more than $61 million in additional revenue for the Commonwealth annually.
  • Penn State Fayette played a large role in the amount of money spent by Penn State in Fayette, Greene and Washington counties, which amounted to $53.9 million. The total business volume impact of Penn State University in Fayette County was slightly more than $47.2 million.
]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:40:50 EST /Information/News/Archive/30880.htm School nurses: Professional development class begins June 15 at Fayette campus /Information/News/Archive/30878.htm
Program courses are offered each summer and are delivered in condensed formats—designed to minimize impact on summer vacation plans. Participants can earn up to 6 credits within a two-week period. The following course can be taken this summer at Penn State Fayette: Promoting Healthy Lifestyles for the School Age Population, being offered June 15-25.

These courses for School Nurses can help satisfy Act 48 requirements, and some courses also may be applicable toward a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or other Penn State School of Nursing programs. Registered Nurses may also use these courses to satisfy new Act 58 requirements.

The Professional Development Program for School Nurses is supported by Penn State’s School of Nursing and the office of Continuing and Professional Education. More information can be found online at http://www.outreach.psu.edu/cape/SchoolNurse, or by calling Penn State Fayette’s Continuing Education Office at 724-430-4100 ext. 4516.

Penn State Continuing and Professional Education (CAPE) delivers professional development and continuing education programs to adult learners at locations across Pennsylvania. CAPE uses Penn State’s network of 24 campuses and the University’s academic colleges to offer degrees and programs for adult learners in a wide range of fields, including business, education, engineering/technology, health, and justice/government. For information, visit http://www.outreach.psu.edu/cape/online. Penn State Continuing and Professional Education is part of Penn State Outreach, the largest unified outreach organization in American higher education. Penn State Outreach serves more than 5 million people each year, delivering more than 2,000 programs to people in all 67 Pennsylvania counties, all 50 states and 80 countries worldwide.
]]> Thu, 23 Apr 2009 17:15:54 EST /Information/News/Archive/30878.htm Student Business Society hosts benefit concert April 23 at Fayette campus /Information/News/Archive/30874.htm
The Annual Business Society Picnic is open to Penn State business students and alumni, as well as local professionals and individuals interested in any of Penn State’s two-year associate and four-year bachelor of science degree programs available at the Fayette campus.

Following the picnic, the concert begins with Colour Like Clover, a local student rock band that will open for Scott Blasey and The Pittsburgers.   

Two Colour Like Clover band members are Penn State Fayette students: Shaun Novak and Nick Serra. They have performed for audiences in such places as the Hard Rock Cafe in Pittsburgh and The Techroom in Uniontown.

Scott Blasey has been the voice of The Clarks for more than two decades.  He has played in popular venues from coast-to-coast for fans of all ages. He is well known for his thoughtful lyrics that connect with listeners. Blasey also enjoys a successful solo career, having released three solo albums on top of the dozen albums released with The Clarks.   

Tickets for the concert are $10 in advance, and $15 at the door. The concert proceeds will benefit the Penn State Fayette student Business Society. To purchase tickets in advance, call 724-430-4101.

Business Society 

Among the event organizers are (from left): Penn State Fayette Business Program Coordinator and Business Society faculty advisor Dr. Terry Halfhill, Business Society President Suzanne Chambliss, Scott Blasey, Student Government Association President Shawn Shrum, and Business Society Secretary Michelle Swickey.
]]> Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:37:39 EST /Information/News/Archive/30874.htm Marketing and Technology the Focus of April 25 Classes for Artists, Craftsmen /Information/News/Archive/30873.htm
The one-day program is being offered in two sessions at the campus: “Photographing Artwork and Selling on the Internet,” scheduled for 9 a.m. to noon; and “Pricing Artwork and Marketing Issues,” which will follow from 1 to 4 p.m. There is a $59 fee for each class, or both classes may be taken for a discounted fee of $99.

Photographing Artwork and Selling on the Internet will be instructed by David Romero, an award-winning photographer and owner of Vibrant Image, a commercial photographic and Web design studio. Pricing Artwork and Marketing Issues will be led by Peter Eberle, a Penn State Fayette instructor of business and consultant to entrepreneurs.

“This is an opportunity for our campus to work more closely with Touchstone in the development and delivery of programs that will help local artists market and sell their products,” says Penn State Fayette Director of Outreach Joe Segilia.

Development of this program—plus an in-depth, weeklong offering scheduled for June—has been in the works since fall 2008. Segilia says, “Partnering with Touchstone, which offers a wide range of art and fine craft classes, was a good fit. Artists and craftsmen are very creative, but often can benefit by learning good business skills. Penn State Fayette is skilled at identifying and bringing to the table individuals who can share that kind of practical expertise with artists and craftsmen.”

For more information and to register, call 724-430-4211, or go online to www.fayette.psu.edu and click on Continuing Education for a registration form.

]]> Thu, 16 Apr 2009 09:13:52 EST /Information/News/Archive/30873.htm April 22 “CEO Conversations” to feature Marjorie Rendell /Information/News/Archive/30869.htm Marjorie Rendell Judge and First Lady of Pennsylvania Marjorie Rendell is the next “CEO Conversations” featured speaker at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus on Wednesday, April 22. The public is invited to this free event, which begins at noon in the Maggie Hardy Magerko Auditorium in the campus’ Community Center.

Rendell became the 43rd First Lady of Pennsylvania when her husband, Governor Edward Rendell, was sworn in as governor of Pennsylvania in January of 2003. She is a cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of Pennsylvania and received her Juris Doctor degree from the Villanova University School of Law in 1973.

Over the course of her 20-year career as a practicing attorney, Rendell specialized in bankruptcy law and commercial litigation. She was inducted as a judge of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania in 1994 and was awarded the Philadelphia Bar Association’s Sandra Day O’Connor Award in 2004.

As first lady, Judge Rendell has focused on imparting civic responsibility to children through civic learning. She also promotes Pennsylvania’s rich history and partners with the Pennsylvania Commission for Women on its initiatives.

CEO Conversations is designed to bring the business community onto campus to give students the opportunity to hear from and talk with key individuals in the local, regional and national business world about business, entrepreneurship, and leadership. CEO Conversations, an initiative of Penn State Fayette Chancellor Emmanuel Osagie, debuted in fall 2007 with local businessman, philanthropist, and former Fayette County Commissioner Joseph A. Hardy III as the guest speaker.

Guest speakers featured at CEO Conversations include: Attorney General Tom Corbett and Fayette County District Attorney Nancy Vernon; Stephen Sheetz, chairman of Sheetz Inc.; James O’Donnell, CEO of American Eagle Outfitters; Edward Stack, CEO of Dick’s Sporting Goods; Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl; Laura Deklewa, owner and president of Allegheny Construction Group; and Ken Sawyer, CEO of the Pittsburgh Penguins.
]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2009 10:13:34 EST /Information/News/Archive/30869.htm College Prep Course for Parents Offered at Penn State Fayette April 22 /Information/News/Archive/30870.htm
“College Prep for Parents 101” will help parents understand what their children need to do to prepare for college, and how they can help in their success. Admissions Counselor Apryl Kadish explains, “Parents who have high school students getting ready to make the transition to college have a lot of questions. Even if the parents are college graduates, things may be much different than when they attended college. I find parents want to make sure their college-bound children get off on the right foot, so this class was developed to help them help their children.”

Parents who attend the class will learn how to help their children set expectations and prepare themselves academically. They will also learn how to help their children aim toward a career, research and apply for college, and apply for financial aid.

For more information or to reserve a seat, call the Penn State Fayette Admissions Office at 724-430-4130.
]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2009 10:59:59 EST /Information/News/Archive/30870.htm Penn State Berkey Creamery ice cream sale underway at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/30871.htm The Penn State Fayette Alumni Society’s annual ice cream sale is underway! Once a year, the group takes orders from the community for the famous Penn State Berkey Creamery’s favorite flavors. All proceeds benefit the local campus and community initiatives of the Penn State Fayette Alumni Society.

This year’s ice cream flavors include: Butter Pecan, Pralines ‘n Cream, Chocolate, Death by Chocolate, Tin Roof Sundae, Peachy Paterno, Peanut Butter Cup, Toasted Almond, Chocolate Marble, and Vanilla. Two flavors of frozen yogurt are also available: Strawberry and Vanilla.

This is an advance-sale opportunity. No ice cream will be for sale on the pick-up day.  Jackson Farms provides the use of a freezer truck and driver, which makes the sale possible.

Orders and payments must be received no later than April 23. The pick-up date is scheduled for Saturday, May 9, from 9-11 a.m. inside Penn State Fayette’s Community Center. For an order form, call 724-430-4190.

]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:40:47 EST /Information/News/Archive/30871.htm Special open house April 18 at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/30868.htm
Brian Fernandes, director of Enrollment and Student Services, says, “It’s not too late for high school students, adults seeking to enhance or change careers, and veterans to enroll at Penn State Fayette for the fall 2009 semester. Because Penn State Fayette offers two-year and four-year degree programs, as well as other higher education opportunities, this special event can help prospective students find out why Penn State could be the right choice for them.”

High school students and adults will be able to meet faculty and current students, hear about Penn State’s many degree programs, and learn about financial aid and the admissions process. The event starts at 10 a.m. with breakfast. An optional tour of the campus will begin at 9 a.m. Penn State Fayette will waive the $50 application fee for anyone who applies to Penn State during the event. Admissions counselors will be available to assist prospective students complete their application form until 2 p.m.

For more information and to register, call 724-430-4130 or register online at www.fayette.psu.edu.
]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2009 10:13:30 EST /Information/News/Archive/30868.htm 28th Women’s Day slated for May 21 at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/30865.htm “We Can Make a Difference” is the theme of the 28th Women’s Day to be held May 21 at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. Committee members have been busy making plans and arranging for the popular event’s guest speakers. Details are being finalized, but Women’s Day Committee Chairwoman Harriet Galida says, “We are pleased to announce Ed Claypoole, a professional strongman, former biker, church pastor and motivational speaker will be our keynote speaker. Claypoole makes his living as an artist-blacksmith, and he promises his presentation will be humorous, honest, friendly, and helpful. Also, several of the presentations will focus on how easy it is to be ‘green’ and help save the planet’s resources.” Other topics include health, careers and how to take care of yourself. Some of the Women’s Day Committee members, which include community and campus representatives, are seen here at a recent planning meeting: (seated in front, from left) Harriet Galida and Jamie Onesi; (back, from left) Patty Zebrasky, Janet Ritenour, Tina Reed, Patty Tobal, Barbara Ventura, Nancy Peton and Cheryl Tkacs. ]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2009 15:26:15 EST /Information/News/Archive/30865.htm April 8 Walking Event Postponed /Information/News/Archive/30863.htm
Penn State Fayette’s “Spring into Fitness” initiative to encourage community members to take advantage of the campus as a safe, convenient walking route is going ahead as scheduled. On Saturday mornings from 9-11 a.m., beginning April 11 through May, the campus will provide water for walkers on campus.

]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2009 08:18:30 EST /Information/News/Archive/30863.htm RNs can earn BS degree in three semesters at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/30864.htm
The accelerated program at Penn State Fayette started in fall 2008 and allows registered nurses (RNs) to earn a bachelor of science in nursing degree in three semesters—an achievement that usually takes two years or more. To streamline the process, the courses are taught in a “blended” format, including in-class, Web-enhanced, and Web-delivered offerings. Also, each semester is divided into two seven-week sessions, further aiding the compression of the course content. Students need to spend only one day per week on campus, and clinical experiences are coordinated with partnering health-care institutions.

Penn State Fayette is one of two Penn State campuses (the other is the Altoona campus) offering the accelerated program, which is being funded by a grant from the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). The Fayette campus was selected in part because of its location in a rural county that borders other rural or underserved counties.

“The importance of increasing the number of nurses with bachelor’s degrees has been identified in the state and this program will help enhance the quality of health care in our region,” explains Melissa Miner, coordinator of Penn State Fayette’s nursing program.

Miner reports students in the initial cohort are pleased with how the program meets their professional and personal needs. “Because of the way the program is set up, nurses can keep their jobs while pursuing their advanced degree. And it is the most-accelerated program offered in the region.”

RNs interested in learning more about the accelerated RN to BS program at Penn State Fayette can call 724-430-4220 or go online at www.fayette.psu.edu/Academics and click on degrees and minors.

The program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). Grants, scholarship and loan programs are available for students who qualify.

]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2009 08:36:27 EST /Information/News/Archive/30864.htm Blues and White Gala to auction sports memorabilia and more for scholarships /Information/News/Archive/30862.htm
A feature of the gala is musical entertainment by the Billy Price Band, a regional favorite who has not played in the local area for some time. Blues and White Gala Chair and Penn State Fayette Director of Development Lori Omatick says, “Billy Price has a large fan base in Fayette County, so this is a wonderful opportunity for people to put on their dancing shoes and help raise money for scholarships.”

Live auction items are sure to pique the interest of local sports fans. Among the sports packages being auctioned are: a Pittsburgh Steelers Fan Dream Package, including four luxury box tickets with pre-game sideline passes; a Pittsburgh Penguins Fan Dream Package, including four premium tickets to a first-round play-off game, meet and greet with Mario Lemieux in his suite prior to the game, and an autographed Lemieux hockey jersey; and a Nittany Lion Fan “Must-Have” Package, including a Penn State football autographed by Coach Joe Paterno.

Other live auction items include a Walt Disney World Yacht Club Resort vacation, Mystic Rock Golf and lesson with the resident pro, a Nemacolin Woodlands Resort Get Away Weekend, a Steelers football helmet autographed by Ben Roethlisberger, and a Pittsburgh Penguins jersey autographed by Sidney Crosby.

Silent auction items are still coming in, but already include authentic African art and jewelry, Lexus Club Pirate Tickets, a Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre package including dinner, a Uniontown Mall Shopping Spree gift basket, and Penn State Football tickets.

Local KDKA-TV sports anchor Bob Pompeani is the gala’s master of ceremonies, while the live auction will be handled by Sotheby’s auctioneer and Penn State alumnus Selby Kiffer. In addition to the auctions and dancing, a highlight of the evening will be when Penn State Fayette honors two “Friends of Penn State Fayette”: Joseph Hardy III and Congressman John Murtha.

Omatick explains the reasoning behind the gala as one of documented need. “Ninety percent of Penn State Fayette students have demonstrated a need for financial aid—with 75 percent of scholarship recipients demonstrating an unmet need. It is important for local Fayette County students to be able to get the high-quality education Penn State offers. The gala is a way for Penn State Fayette to partner with the community to directly help these students. One-hundred percent of the proceeds of this gala will go to students in the form of scholarships this year.” She reports some of the key sponsors of the gala include Advanced Acoustic Concepts, Ford Business Machines, Joshua and Maria Swimmer, Nemacolin Woodlands/84 Lumber, BAE Systems, Ida M. Procyk, CRH Catering, Foundation Coal, and Uniontown Mall.

The Blues and White Gala includes dinner. R.S.V.P.s are being taken through April 13. To receive an invitation or make reservations, please call 724-430-4190.

Gala

Auction items for the Blues and White Scholarship Gala are coming in, and many will have strong appeal to local sports fans. Among the items that will be auctioned at the gala include (from left) an autographed Sidney Crosby Pittsburgh Penguins jersey, displayed by Pamela Moore, chair of the Auction Committee; a Pittsburgh Steelers football helmet autographed by LaMarr Woodley, held by Phil Savini Jr., Ph.D., co-chair of the gala’s Sponsorship Committee; a Pittsburgh Steelers football helmet autographed by Ben Roethlisberger, held by Lori Omatick, chair of the Blues and White Gala Committee; and a Penn State football autographed by Joe Paterno, held by the Nittany Lion.
]]> Fri, 03 Apr 2009 17:12:59 EST /Information/News/Archive/30862.htm Penn State Fayette debuts fitness initiative on National Start! Walking Day /Information/News/Archive/30861.htm
WalkingPenn State Fayette’s “Spring into Fitness” initiative is one that encourages community members to take advantage of the campus as a safe, convenient walking route. Penn State Fayette Chancellor Emmanuel I. Osagie explains, “We see occasional walkers on our campus, but more people in the community should know that we welcome them to walk here. Now that spring has arrived, many people are looking to get outdoors to enjoy the good weather. Why not take a walk? For added hospitality, on Saturday mornings from 9-11 a.m., beginning April 11 through May, the campus will provide water for walkers on campus.”

The April 8 event also kicks off Steps to a Healthier Fayette County’s 2009 Wednesday Walking Series. Launched last year as a county-wide event, the Wednesday Walking series features local communities that designate a walking route in their area. Participants can learn historical information about local communities such as Uniontown, Masontown, Hopwood, Brownsville, Connellsville and Dunbar as they walk.

On April 8, after a brief welcome, Penn State Fayette kinesiology instructor Jes Hutson will lead community attendees in a few common stretches people should do before participating in exercise or physical activity. Walking will begin at 6 p.m., with Lion Ambassadors stationed around campus with information about Penn State Fayette.

Penn State Fayette campus nurse Kathy Iannamorelli says, “We hope to raise the level of awareness about healthy living in our community. And we want everyone to know that we are committed to encouraging healthy lifestyle changes. We have a beautiful, safe location with little traffic to cause walkers any worry.”

Last fall, the American Heart Association awarded Fit Friendly status to Penn State Fayette for creating a healthy workplace environment. Students, faculty and staff have also been encouraged to walk the approximately 1-mile loop of the campus as often as possible.

]]> Fri, 03 Apr 2009 14:27:57 EST /Information/News/Archive/30861.htm Delia Conti named director of Academic Affairs at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/30860.htm Delia Conti Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus has appointed Delia Conti, Ph.D., J.D., as director of Academic Affairs. In making the announcement, Penn State Fayette Chancellor Emmanuel I. Osagie says, “Delia Conti brings to this position a base of knowledge of Penn State, important experience as a faculty member, and the ability to oversee academic programming that serves our student body, as well as the employers of Fayette County.”

Conti initially came to the Fayette campus in July 2008 from Penn State Greater Allegheny, where she was interim director of Academic Affairs and a member of the faculty. She has been serving Penn State Fayette as the interim director of Academic Affairs as a search for the permanent director was conducted.

The director of Academic Affairs is responsible for all academic matters, including oversight of the campus’ academic degree programs and faculty, the scheduling of classes, and coordination of all instructional activities.

Osagie says, “The individual charged with directing the academic affairs of the campus has a vital role. Delia had the opportunity to see first-hand what the position entailed at our campus and worked with the campus’ management group on a variety of issues. We had a strong field of candidates for the position and Delia was ultimately selected for the post.”

Conti, a Penn State alumnus and Penn State faculty member for 20 years, says she is ready to help lead the campus in serving its students and the community. “I am pleased to join the administrative team at Penn State Fayette to help advance the campus mission to be a premier student-centered regional university. The small classroom environment Penn State Fayette offers, combined with the resources of a large research university, offers tremendous benefits to all students. Over the last year, I have had the opportunity to observe the excellence of our faculty and staff, and I am looking forward to working with the chancellor to lead Penn State Fayette in exciting new directions for continued growth and educational excellence.”

Conti earned her doctor of jurisprudence degree from Duquesne University School of Law, a doctorate and master’s degrees in rhetoric and communication from the University of Pittsburgh, and a bachelor’s degree in communication studies from Penn State. Before becoming a professor of communications at Penn State Greater Allegheny in 1988, she taught at the University of Pittsburgh.

]]> Fri, 03 Apr 2009 09:30:58 EST /Information/News/Archive/30860.htm Recycled Percussion to perform at Penn State Fayette April 7 /Information/News/Archive/30855.htm
Recycled Percussion’s instruments include trash cans, ladders, mailboxes, power tools and otherRecycled Percussion discarded items not typically associated with music. The band’s unconventional percussion sound is sometimes compared to Stomp and the Blue Man Group, but Recycled Percussion says its sound and show are different. The four-man group from New Hampshire includes lead drummers Justin Spencer and Ryan Vezina, guitarist Jim Magoon, and hip-hop/funk DJ and keyboardist Todd Griffin. To create its “junk rock” sound the members blend power-percussion and funky beats with metal grinding guitar and DJ mixes.

Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the Penn State Fayette Student Activities Office or by calling 724-430-4248.
Recycled Percussion

]]> Fri, 03 Apr 2009 17:12:55 EST /Information/News/Archive/30855.htm Children’s Easter Egg Hunt to take place April 4 /Information/News/Archive/30854.htm
Penn State encourages qualified persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact Vanessa Myers at 724-430-4271 in advance of your participation or visit.  

]]> Wed, 25 Mar 2009 17:08:14 EST /Information/News/Archive/30854.htm Career choices are many for two-year degree graduates /Information/News/Archive/30851.htm
The event, titled “Think two-year degree, think Penn State,” will feature a panel of Penn State Fayette two-year degree graduates who will talk about their Penn State education and job opportunities they have had. Penn State Fayette faculty, admissions counselors and student aid counselors also will be on hand to answer questions. The $50 application fee will be waived for prospective students who apply to Penn State at the event.

Register for this event online at www.fayette.psu.edu (under admissions), by e-mailing feadm@psu.edu, or by calling 724-430-4130.

]]> Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:33:02 EST /Information/News/Archive/30851.htm Penn State Fayette wins award for Coal and Coke Heritage Music Festival /Information/News/Archive/30852.htm CUPRAP’s annual conference at the Hotel Hershey March 12. Penn State Fayette Public Relations Director Susan Brimo-Cox (left) received the award on behalf of the campus from CUPRAP President Barbara Marshall.

The Coal and Coke Heritage Music Festival was planned by a committee of campus and community leaders to celebrate the music, arts and culture indigenous to the coal and coke region of southwestern Pennsylvania, and the pride and progress these industries fostered. A multigenerational and multicultural event, the festival featured a full day of music of all kinds, ethnic foods, regional arts and crafts, and activities for all ages. The 2009 Coal and Coke Heritage Music Festival will be held September 19.

CUPRAP, founded in 1980 as the College and University Public Relations Association of Pennsylvania, is an organization of communications professionals from colleges, universities, independent schools and other organizations involved in higher education in Pennsylvania and other states. CUPRAP has nearly 400 members representing 100 institutions.

]]> Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:33:09 EST /Information/News/Archive/30852.htm The Lion Players present “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” /Information/News/Archive/30853.htm
One of Shakespeare’s best known comedies, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is the story of four lovers and the infamous fairy, Puck. Magic, trickery and fantasy abound in the enchanted forest and a complicated love polygon ensues. Everyone seems to fall in love with the wrong person, until the love spells are reversed.

Admission to “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is free, but reservations and tickets are required. Call 724-430-4271 for more information or to make your reservations.
Lion Players
Back row, from left: Fred Adams, Stephanie Helmick, Danielle Brownfield, Adam Margovic, Heather Kelly, Colletta Weimer, Rebecca Walters and James Saul. Front row, from left: Christopher Omiros, Abby Simons-Bellina, Cynthia Simons-Bellina, Steven Wilt, Maggie Simons-Bellina and Lynn Petko.

]]> Mon, 23 Mar 2009 09:37:30 EST /Information/News/Archive/30853.htm Annual youth sports clinics to be held April 10 at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/30847.htm
Students must bring their own ball to basketball and soccer clinics. Clinics are offered throughout the day, as follows:
  • Basketball, 8:30-10 a.m. and 10-11:30 a.m.
  • Soccer, 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. and 12:45-2 p.m.
  • Wrestling, noon-1:30 p.m.
  • Cheerleading, 2-3:15 p.m.
  • Volleyball, 3:30-5 p.m.

Canned goods will be accepted for the Community Action Food Bank. Registration is limited.  For additional details and an application to register, go to www.fayette.psu.edu. Click on Calendar of Events in Quick Links, and then click on April 10. If you do not have a computer, contact Jes Hutson at jeh20@psu.edu or 724-430-4100, ext. 4886.

Sports Clinics
(from left) Jes Hutson, instructor of kinesiology at Penn State Fayette, and student volunteers Jessica Smell, Claire Slack, Lauren Golden and John Marcolini plan events for the campus’ annual free sports clinics for students in grades K–6 to be held Good Friday, April 10.

]]> Thu, 19 Mar 2009 16:51:26 EST /Information/News/Archive/30847.htm There’s still time to register for SAT Prep Course /Information/News/Archive/30844.htm
Penn State Fayette is offering the course to help local high school students prepare for an important part of their college admission process, regardless of where they decide to pursue their higher education. The cost of the SAT Prep Course is $99. For more information, or to register, contact Penn State Fayette Admissions Counselor Apryl Kadish at 724-430-4124.

]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2009 16:13:46 EST /Information/News/Archive/30844.htm Penguins CEO opens spring “CEO Conversations” on March 24 /Information/News/Archive/30813.htm Ken Sawyer, the CEO of the Pittsburgh Penguins The spring 2009 CEO Conversations series kicks off March 24 featuring Ken Sawyer, the CEO of the Pittsburgh Penguins. This free event is open to the public and will be held in the Maggie Hardy Magerko Auditorium, in Penn State Fayette’s Community Center, from noon to 1 p.m.

Ken Sawyer has been a part of the Penguins organization since September 1999, the day after the team emerged from bankruptcy protection under a new ownership group led by Mario Lemieux. Sawyer first served the organization as executive vice president and chief financial officer, became president in 2003, and then chief executive officer in 2006. As CEO, he oversees the entire Penguins operation, including the financing, development and construction of the new arena, which is scheduled to open in the fall of 2010.

Under Sawyer’s leadership, the Penguins have followed a strategic plan that has resulted in the rebuilding of the team’s on-ice product, the rebuilding of the team’s fan base to the point where there is now a 5,000-seat waiting list for season tickets, reaching agreement with the state on the financing for the 18,000-seat multi-purpose arena now under construction, and a new economic structure within the National Hockey League featuring a hard salary cap and revenue sharing.

Since 2000, Sawyer has also represented the Penguins in all NHL matters and is a member of the NHL’s Board of Governors. His working career spans 38 years, including 14 as the chief financial officer of the NHL. Sawyer is a graduate of McGill University in his native Montreal.

CEO Conversations, an initiative of Penn State Fayette Chancellor Dr. Emmanuel Osagie, debuted in fall 2007 with local businessman, philanthropist, and former Fayette County Commissioner Joseph A. Hardy III as the guest speaker. Guest speakers featured in 2008 included Attorney General Tom Corbett and Fayette County District Attorney Nancy Vernon; Sheetz Inc. Chairman Stephen Sheetz; American Eagle Outfitters CEO James O’Donnell; Dick’s Sporting Goods CEO Edward Stack; Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl; and Laura Deklewa, owner and president of Allegheny Construction Group.

CEO Conversations is designed to give students the opportunity to hear from and talk with key individuals in the local, regional and national business communities about business, entrepreneurship, and leadership.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 11:48:10 EST /Information/News/Archive/30813.htm Explore a Penn State education March 16 at Fayette Campus /Information/News/Archive/30812.htm Admissions Office, the Eberly Building. This event for current high school students, recent high school graduates and returning adults is designed to be an informational day allowing participants to explore the range of opportunities awaiting them at Penn State.

Apply to Penn State at the event and the $50 application fee will be waived. Bring your official transcripts and receive an admissions decision the same day. You are also welcome to bring your 2008 tax forms and Student Aid will help you file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.  Complete your visit by taking a tour of the campus, given on the hour beginning at 9 a.m. and ending at 2 p.m.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 11:48:15 EST /Information/News/Archive/30812.htm Penn State Fayette students honored for academic excellence /Information/News/Archive/30811.htm
The Penn State Fayette students who were recognized and became members of Pi Sigma Phi were (name and degree program indicated):

Michael K. Blaze, Nanofabrication Manufacturing Technology
 Danielle E. Brownfield, Education (Pre-major)
Christopher L. Byers, Letters, Arts, and Sciences
Briana A. Bynoe, Liberal Arts (Pre-major)
Ingrid E. Carlberg, Letters, Arts, and Sciences
Luann Clair, Letters, Arts, and Sciences
Connie J. Conrad, Business
Alicia L. Daerr, Human Development and Family Studies
Danielle L. Davison, Nursing
Roberto A. Delgado, Human Development and Family Studies
Derek J. Derr, Engineering
Lauren N. Dix, Education (Pre-major)
Russell N. Dunyak, Mining Technology
Jared T. Ealy, Business
Connie J. Erminio, Business
Mark W. Evans, Mining Technology
Gregory P. Fike, Communications (Pre-major)
Stacy L. Forsythe, Science
Diana S. Green, Nursing
Robert W. Hager, Health and Human Development (Pre-major)
Diana L. Hardy, Human Development and Family Studies
James M. Horrell, Engineering Science
Luke D. Horton, Business
Megan R. Kara, French and Francophone Studies
Kaitlin A. Keslar, University College (Pre-major)
Kelli M. Kite, Nursing
Lisa M. Komula, Nursing    
Shane A. Kovach, Liberal Arts (Pre-major)
Nicole M. LaPresta, English
Jamel R. Lewis, Letters, Arts, and Sciences
Elizabeth A. Liptak, Human Development and Family Studies
Patrick R. Lofink, Business
Eric A. Long, Engineering (Pre-major)
Marcel S. Lowe, Electrical Engineering Technology
Malinda M. Mahoney, Business
Curtis K. Matthews, Business
Sandra L. McCloy, Human Development and Family Studies
Robert N. McIntyre, Information Systems Technology
Janelle L. McManus, Nursing
Tammy E. McMichael, Business
Melanie C. Medvitz, Nursing
Mona L. Miller, Nursing
Jennifer L. Milne, Nursing
Peggy B. Miltenberger, Building Engineering Technology
Nicole E. Mowry, English
Brianne A. Nero, Education (Pre-major)
Bethany A. Novotny, Human Development and Family Studies
Kayla R. Nuccetelli, Business Administration
Timothy J. O’Neal, Mining Technology
Heather  Vorrasi O’Nell, Administration of Justice
Rebecca L. Patch, Nursing
Lana J. Poli, Human Development and Family Studies
Kelly M. Porter, Business Administration
Shawnaa L. Radomsky, Nursing
Sean P. Ruck, Engineering (Pre-major)
Andrew A. Rudge, Mechanical Engineering Technology
Debra D. Sager, Nursing
Lorraine M. Savage, Nursing
Andrew J. Shal, Information Systems Technology
John R. Shandor, Division of Undergraduate Studies
Troy A. Simms, Mining Technology
Cynthia F. Simons-Bellina, English
Jessica M. Smell, University College (Pre-major)
Sheena M. Sparks, Nursing
Vicky A. Spells, Administration of Justice
Jessica L. Spiker, Nursing
Jody M. Sproul, Kinesiology
Andrew M. Stepanik, University College (Pre-major)
Natalie M. Stewart, Nursing
Thomas P. Szczygiel, Building Engineering Technology
Marissa L. Thomas, Business
Valerie A. Ventura, Science (Pre-major)
Christopher L. Vidonish, Nursing
Nicholas S. Vuchenich, Mining Technology
Annie K. Walkush, Education (Pre-major)
George A. Walters III, Science
Robert W. Whyel Jr., University College (Pre-major)
Christina K. Wilson, Liberal Arts (Pre-major)
Jason E. Wingfield, Letters, Arts, and Sciences
Stefanie A. Wisniewski, Nursing
Jane R. Woods, Human Development and Family  Studies
Stephen R. Yarnevich, Electrical Engineering Technology
Stephanie M. Young, Nursing
Billie Jo Yuhaniak, Letters, Arts, and Sciences
 

Pi Sigma Phi
Eighty-four students at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus were recognized for high academic achievement and became members of the Pi Sigma Phi Honor Society March 3. Many students participated in the ceremony honoring them, including, from left, front row (seated): Bethany A. Novotny, Pi Sigma Phi Secretary-Treasurer Melissa L. Walker, Kaitlin A. Keslar, Danielle E. Brownfield, Nicole E. Mowry; second row: Shane Kovach, Gregory P. Fike, Luke D. Horton, Kayla R. Nuccetelli, Kelly M. Porter, Brianne A. Nero, Pi Sigma Phi  President Janice M. Collins, Connie J. Conrad, Connie J. Erminio; third row: Eric A. Long, Jamel R. Lewis, Marcel S. Lowe, Valerie A. Ventura, Annie A. Walkush, Sheena M. Sparks, Christopher L. Byers, Ingrid E. Carlberg; fourth row: Jared T. Ealy, Patrick R. Lofink, Roberto A. Delgado, Diana S. Green, Tammy E. McMichael, Billie Jo Yuhaniak, Alicia L. Daerr, Diana L. Hardy, Melanie C. Medvitz; fifth row: Pi Sigma Phi Vice President Edward O. Banko, Robert W. Whyel Jr., Jason E. Wingfield, John R. Shandor, Nicholas S. Vuchenich, Troy A. Simms, Timothy J. O’Neal, Cynthia F. Simons-Bellina, Malinda M. Mahoney, Rebecca L. Patch, Andrew J. Shal, Marissa L. Thomas, Heather Vorrasi O’Nell, and Vicky A. Spells (not visible).

]]> Wed, 27 Apr 2011 10:33:46 EST /Information/News/Archive/30811.htm Pairings announced for 2009 USCAA National Basketball Championships /Information/News/Archive/30805.htm Penn State Fayette, the Eberly Campus will open up play in the 2009 United States Collegiate Athletic Conference National Basketball Championships with a women’s and men’s doubleheader on March 4. The Lady Roaring Lions will battle Philander Smith, Little Rock, Ark., at 6 p.m., while the men face Central Maine Community College, Auburn, Maine, at 8 p.m.

Pairings were announced from the USCAA National Office in Newport News, Va. A total of five Penn State branch campus schools received bids to the tournament.

Talladega received the top seed in Men’s Division I, followed by Oakwood (2), Rochester College (3) and Southern Virginia (4).

Pennsylvania State University Athletic Conference men’s champion Penn State Beaver received the number two seed in Men’s Division II and will face the winner of the Penn State Fayette/Central Maine winner on March 5 at 8 p.m. at Penn State Fayette.  Also in Men’s Division II, Penn State Hazleton (fifth seed) opens play on March 4 at 10 p.m. when it faces Vermont Tech at Penn State Fayette. Penn College of Technology (9), Williamsport, Pa., will play the University of Maine Augusta at 8 p.m. at Penn State Greater Allegheny.

The top seeds in Men’s Division II are Williamson (1), Penn State Beaver (2), Andrews University (3) and Vermont Tech (4).

In addition to Penn State Fayette, the PSUAC champion Penn State Beaver Lady Lions also received a bid to the tournament and is seeded sixth. The Beaver Lady Lions open play on March 4 against Central Maine Community College at Noon at Penn State Greater Allegheny.

In the women’s division, tops seeds are Robert Morris-Springfield (1), Spalding (2), Apprentice School (3) and Southern Virginia (4).

Admission for the tournament is $7 per day or $20 for a four-day pass for all games—including practice games March 3—for persons 14 years of age or older. Admission is free for children and all Penn State Fayette students. Tickets are available at the door or in advance by calling 724-430-4100, Ext. 4515.

]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:40:43 EST /Information/News/Archive/30805.htm Get a “Taste of Penn State” on March 3 /Information/News/Archive/30804.htm
Beginning at 10 a.m., students sit in on a mock class, followed by a tour of the Fayette campus. The day’s activities conclude with lunch in the cafeteria with Penn State Fayette faculty and students. An application session will be available for students interested in applying to Penn State. Prospective students who bring their official high school transcript with a SAT or ACT test score will receive an admissions decision on the spot. The $50 application fee will be waived for those who apply that day.

For more information and to register, call 724-430-4130 or visit www.fayette.psu.edu.

]]> Thu, 26 Feb 2009 14:38:53 EST /Information/News/Archive/30804.htm Tickets for USCAA National Basketball Championships available now /Information/News/Archive/30802.htm Tickets for the 2009 USCAA National Basketball Championships at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus are on sale now. Action in the championships begins with a full slate on Wednesday, March 4, and continues daily through Saturday, March 7.

“We really think the ticket prices are a great value,” explains Vince Capozzi, athletic director, who reports single-day tickets cost $7. “If a person comes and stays all day, that amounts to a little more than a dollar per game.”

Capozzi also notes that, in addition to single-day tickets, sports fans have the opportunity to purchase a pass good for all four days at a price of $20. “You save a dollar, plus you don’t have to worry about standing in ticket lines,” Capozzi points out.

Advance tickets are available Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. by calling Penn State Fayette at 724-430-4100, ext. 4514, or visiting the Athletics Office in Penn State Fayette’s Community Center.

A total of 29 of the tournament’s 49 games will be played on the Fayette campus, with Penn State Greater Allegheny in McKeesport hosting the remaining 20. A total of 30 teams—including both the Fayette men’s and women’s teams—will be in town to vie for championships in Men’s Division I, Men’s Division II and the Women’s Division.

]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:40:40 EST /Information/News/Archive/30802.htm Local school students learn about engineering careers /Information/News/Archive/30803.htm More than 30 middle and high school students—boys and girls—and some of their parents came to Penn State Fayette recently to learn about careers in the nuclear energy industry. In this photo, guest speaker Louis Grobmyer (center), a consulting engineer with Westinghouse Nuclear Services, explains how a nuclear reaction produces energy that we can harness to produce electricity. Grobmyer explained that the demand for electrical energy will double or triple in the next 50 years, and that 50 percent of the engineers currently working in the industry will be eligible to retire within the next 15 years—creating many opportunities for students interested in engineering careers. Many kinds of engineers are needed in the nuclear industry, he said, and he encouraged the students to take lots of math and science classes in order to prepare for college and a successful engineering career. The presentation was part of Penn State Fayette’s celebration of National Engineers Week. ]]> Wed, 25 Feb 2009 10:44:09 EST /Information/News/Archive/30803.htm No. 1 Fayette Thon Team breaks fundraising records /Information/News/Archive/30801.htm In raising $71,070 in the 2009 Thon campaign, the Penn State Fayette Thon Team broke a campus Thon fundraising record and secured the No. 1 spot again among Penn State’s 19 Commonwealth Campuses in the annual money-raising effort to fight pediatric cancer. Since its organization 12 years ago, the Fayette Thon Team has raised a total of $492,505.54 for the Four Diamond Fund charity.

The Thon dance marathon was held at the University Park Campus February 20-22. More than 700 dancers and 15,000 student volunteers, faculty, staff, alumni and family members packed the Bryce Jordan Center for the event. Penn State Fayette was represented by more than 30 students and six dancers. All six Fayette dancers made it through the grueling 46 hours of dancing.

Penn State Fayette Thon Team advisor Chad Long says, “The Thon team set and surpassed three fundraising goals this year—starting with an initial goal of $55,000. There were 36 members on this year’s Fayette Thon Team and each one worked incredibly hard. Many of these students go to school and work, so, they give up their weekends and social time to work for this charity effort. It is amazing to watch them and share in this record-breaking effort—the highest amount raised by the Fayette campus and also the highest amount raised by any of the Commonwealth Campuses in the history of Thon.”

Among Penn State’s 19 Commonwealth Campuses, the Fayette Thon Team has been in the No. 1 spot 10 of the past 12 years; the team placed second in 2005 and 2006.

Penn State Fayette Chancellor Emmanuel Osagie visited the Bryce Jordan Center over the weekend to lend his support to the Fayette Thon Team. He observes, “The Fayette students were overflowing in enthusiasm and dedication to this charity effort. They make me and the whole campus community proud of what they can do—students really putting their hearts and actions to work to make a difference. These ordinary students have demonstrated how they achieve extraordinary goals. This experience will serve them well in their future endeavors.”

Overall, this year’s Penn State University’s Thon reached a new milestone by raising $7,490,133.87 for children with cancer.

Thon is a year-round fundraising event benefiting The Four Diamonds Fund, which is striving to conquer childhood cancer by assisting children treated at Penn State Children’s Hospital and their families through superior care, comprehensive support, and innovative research. The fundraising culminates in the no sitting, no sleeping, 46-hour dance marathon held every February called Thon (short for Dance Marathon). This collective effort has become one of Penn State’s greatest and most unifying traditions.

Any family with a child being treated for pediatric cancer at Penn State Children’s Hospital in Hershey is automatically eligible for support. The Four Diamonds Fund has helped more than 2,000 families since 1972. Approximately 90 new families receive support each year. The Fund offsets the cost of treatment that insurance does not cover, as well as expenses that may disrupt the welfare of the child, such as car repairs, rent, or household utilities.

The 2009 Penn State Fayette Thon Team includes: Chair Bri Nero, Advertising Captain and dancer Tiffany Blocker, Campus Programming Captain and dancer Elizabeth Wallace, Community Programming Captain Stefanie Long, Financial Captain and dancer Mike Flory, Morale Captain Hilary Griffith, Public Relations Captain Claire Slack, dancer Brittany Mihalko, dancer Stacey Newell, dancer Aaron Rovenolt, and team members James Archibald, Amanda Bassinger, Justin Bozak, Janice Collins, Erika Doppelheuer, Greg Fike, Casey Fortuna, Sarah Geska, Matt Hartman, Becky Johnson, Christina Jaynes, Donya Leichliter, Eric Long, John Marcolini, Ashley Marrero, Lindsay Miller, Nicholas Nypaver, Jeanine Piccolomini, Sara Provance, Autumn Ruse, Corey Spaw, Rebecca Springer, Audra Tewell, Annie Walkush, Brittany Washington, and Brandon Wozniak.

For more information about Thon, visit www.thon.org.



PSF Thon
The 2009 Fayette Thon dancers include (from left) Aaron Rovenolt, Mike Flory, Tiffany Blocker, Brittany Mihalko, Stacey Newell and Elizabeth Wallace.

THON Team
The 2009 Fayette Thon Team.

]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:40:37 EST /Information/News/Archive/30801.htm Planning for Blues and White Scholarship Gala underway /Information/News/Archive/30800.htm Planning is underway for the April 18th Blues and White Gala, an event designed to generate scholarship funding for students attending Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. Involved in the planning are (from left) community leaders Lord Peter Palumbo and Joseph Hardy III, Penn State Fayette Director of Development Lori Omatick, and Penn State Fayette Chancellor Dr. Emmanuel Osagie. The gala will be held at Nemacolin Woodlands Resort and will feature musical entertainer the Billy Price Band. Items for the silent and live auctions will include trips, opportunities for dinner with celebrities, sports memorabilia and more. To receive an invitation, please call 724-430-4190. ]]> Thu, 19 Feb 2009 09:49:07 EST /Information/News/Archive/30800.htm Less than three weeks until USCAA National Basketball Championships arrive! /Information/News/Archive/30799.htm USCAAPlanning activity is in high gear as time draws near for the arrival of the USCAA National Basketball Championships to southwestern Pennsylvania. Athletic director Vince Capozzi and coach Ray Smitley begin deciding where sponsor banners will be hung in the main arena in this photo at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus, the host of the games. Thirty teams from across the country will converge on the campus, Uniontown and the surrounding area for the tournament that will be held March 3-7. This event is the first time the USCAA is holding its Men’s Division I and Division II, and the Women’s Basketball national championships concurrently in the same location. The majority of the games and the finals will be played at the Fayette campus, with some preliminary-round games at Penn State Greater Allegheny. Anyone interested in volunteering for the event should call 724-430-4100 ext. 4514.

]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:40:34 EST /Information/News/Archive/30799.htm Middle school students compete in MATHCOUNTS at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/30782.htm

Math Counts
Top 10 MATHCOUNTS student scorers (from left): Joey Rechenthaler (Frazier), Jeremy Guzy (Laurel Highlands), Justin Bruce (Brownsville), Wyatt Goehring (Margaret Bell Miller), Taylor May (Brownsville), Ben Rozzi (Albert Gallatin South), Cameron Jacobs (Margaret Bell Miller), Erika Gesso (Laurel Highlands), Aaron Haywood (Margaret Bell Miller), Justin Kostelnik (Laurel Highlands).

Math Counts
Local middle school students work together in the MATHCOUNTS Team Round.

]]> Thu, 12 Feb 2009 16:44:48 EST /Information/News/Archive/30782.htm Special open house for future engineering students Feb. 17 /Information/News/Archive/30780.htm
Those interested also are invited to hear Louis Grobmyer, a consulting engineer in Systems and Safety Analysis at Westinghouse Nuclear Services, talk about career options in nuclear energy Wednesday evening, Feb. 18, at 6:30 p.m. in the Corporate Training Center in the Eberly Building.

Both events are free. For more information and to register, call 724-430-4130 or register online at www.fayette.psu.edu.

]]> Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:47:48 EST /Information/News/Archive/30780.htm “Celebrate Engineering Week” features guest speakers, public invited /Information/News/Archive/30781.htm
On Tuesday, Feb. 17, national speaker Andy Persily from the National Institute of Standards and Testing will talk about the quality of the air we breathe in his presentation, “What do we think we know about ventilation?” Persily’s presentation will begin at 12:30 p.m. in Swimmer Hall in the Williams Building.

On Wednesday evening, Feb. 18, Louis Grobmyer, a consulting engineer in Systems and Safety Analysis at Westinghouse Nuclear Services, will talk about career options in nuclear energy. Grobmyer’s presentation begins at 6:30 p.m. in the Corporate Training Center in the Eberly Building.

]]> Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:47:43 EST /Information/News/Archive/30781.htm Extended campus tours Feb. 16 at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/30778.htm the President’s Day Open House at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus February 16. Individuals can choose from two sessions: one beginning at 10 a.m. and another at 1 p.m. This event for current high school students, recent high school graduates and returning adults is designed to be an informational day allowing participants to explore the range of opportunities available at Penn State. Participants will start with breakfast or lunch in the cafeteria and take an all-inclusive tour of Penn State Fayette. A question and answer session with Admissions staff will follow. The application fee will be waived for prospective students who apply that day—a $50 savings.  

Due to the length of the tour, participants are asked to dress in accord with the day’s weather and wear comfortable shoes. For more information and to register, call 724-430-4130 or register online at www.fayette.psu.edu.

]]> Fri, 06 Feb 2009 16:18:07 EST /Information/News/Archive/30778.htm “Think Globally, Eat Locally” /Information/News/Archive/30779.htm
At the presentation, Sarver will talk about the concept of sustainability and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), which unites a local community with local growers. Benefits include accessibility to fresh organic produce and an increased awareness of local families to the dynamics associated with farming and food production.

The Sarver family’s Sarver’s Hill Farm is a staple of Westmoreland County, and has been in operation since the late 1700s. Production is focused on organic vegetables, as well as fruits and berries.

“Think Globally, Eat Locally” is being hosted by Penn State Fayette’s Diversity Task Force to increase awareness about international and environmental issues.

]]> Fri, 06 Feb 2009 16:18:17 EST /Information/News/Archive/30779.htm Volunteers needed for USCAA National Basketball Championships, March 3-7 /Information/News/Archive/30757.htm The USCAA National Basketball Championships are coming to Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus March 3-7. This event will be the largest sporting event in Fayette County’s history. Thirty teams from across the country (including Penn State Fayette’s men’s and women’s teams) will descend upon the Fayette campus and the local community. There will be 49 games—29 of them played at Penn State Fayette. Volunteers are needed to help make the event a success.

  • Volunteers are needed in the following areas:
  • Ticket Takers/Sellers
  • Team Registration (March 3 only)
  • Hospitality Room Hosts
  • Concession Stand Workers
  • Team Hosts
  • Scorers, Timers, Announcers

 

]]> Fri, 22 Feb 2013 16:40:31 EST /Information/News/Archive/30757.htm “Student for a Day” Open House Feb. 4 at Fayette Campus /Information/News/Archive/30735.htm
Prospective students will get a taste of the college experience, and learn how they can get on track of an exciting career with any one of Penn State Fayette’s six baccalaureate degrees, 10 associate degrees, or the first two years of more than 160 Penn State majors offered at the Fayette campus. Parents of high school students are welcome to participate. The $50 application fee will be waived for those who apply to Penn State that day.

Reservations are required. Register by calling 724-430-4130 or online at www.fayette.psu.edu.

]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2009 11:33:18 EST /Information/News/Archive/30735.htm Trading floor debuts at Penn State Fayette /Information/News/Archive/30734.htm
Pennsylvania State Senator Richard A. Kasunic was on hand Jan. 23 for the festivities and presented Penn State Fayette Chancellor Dr. Emmanuel I. Osagie a check in the amount of $50,000, a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development that funded the creation of the campus’ trading floor and additional electronic tickers for the Williams Building and the Community Center.

The trading floor was created at the campus to provide an advanced learning environment for students at all levels and is intended to replicate a real world trading experience for students. It provides a bridge linking Penn State Fayette students to Wall Street and helps the business program to boast of similar facilities with the top-ranked business education programs nationally.

Dr. Pawan K. Madhogarhia, assistant professor of finance, explains, “This is a unique learning environment in which students can virtually trade financial securities as if they were on an actual trading floor. An LCD Screen offers access to live coverage of news from different sources, such as CNBC, Bloomberg, CNN, and other financial and news networks. And real-time tickers provide important financial information to gauge the stock and market specific reactions to different news.”  

Students using the trading floor will be engaged through simulated trading, analyzing market reactions, portfolio management, derivatives trading, performance evaluation and other business related challenges. Madhogarhia says, “Important concepts that students learn in finance and other business classes will be related to the real world of finance through movements in the markets and specific financial securities as a result of the dynamic changes in different variables that impact their pricing. Students can access corporate accounting and financial data, monitor corporations’ SEC filings, track the trading behavior of financial institutions, and gain insights into valuation of derivative securities. And, through specific business exercises, students will make trading and pricing decisions based on analysis of data—allowing them to apply different portfolio management techniques and test different trading strategies without risking any real capital.”

Osagie, who was a former business professor and the dean of the School of Business at the College of New Jersey prior to joining Penn State University, spearheaded the effort to create the trading floor on the campus. He says, “One cannot rely on static teaching tools and techniques in the tumultuous and ever-changing world of business. There is only so much you can learn from textbooks and in a traditional classroom. In the same fashion that the sciences have laboratories, it is important for business students to have a laboratory to replicate the real-world experience of Wall Street and to have real-time streaming information about financial markets worldwide. Having the ability to actually practice what they are learning helps increase the students’ comprehension and retention.”

Senator Kasunic pointed out the importance of a quality college education for the community’s youth, as well as adults who may need retraining for a career change. “We all need to support Penn State Fayette as the only four-year institution of higher education in Fayette County. It brings world-class quality education to our area residents. If we’re going to continue to grow as a region, we must develop strategic partnerships between the community and the campus. This trading floor partnership will help to create more access to quality education and provide students with the technology they need to compete in a global economy.”


Trading Floor

From left: Dr. Pawan K. Madhogarhia, assistant professor of finance; Penn State Fayette Chancellor Dr. Emmanuel I. Osagie; Pennsylvania State Senator Richard A. Kasunic; and Dr. Terry R. Halfhill, assistant professor of business administration and head of the campus’ business administration program.

]]> Mon, 26 Jan 2009 16:53:54 EST /Information/News/Archive/30734.htm Jan. 29 presentation to examine the credit market meltdown of 2008 /Information/News/Archive/30733.htm of political science, and Dr. Pawan K. Madhogarhia, assistant professor of finance, will examine the mechanisms that unleashed this financial tidal wave and they will explain what caused the recent near-collapse of the financial system in easily understandable terms. The presentation is free and will be held in Penn State Fayette’s Swimmer Hall in the Williams Building beginning at 12:30 p.m. Pizza and pop will be available at 12:15 p.m.

]]> Fri, 23 Jan 2009 16:41:37 EST /Information/News/Archive/30733.htm Free federal student aid workshop Jan. 29 for college bound high school students /Information/News/Archive/30732.htm Fri, 23 Jan 2009 09:39:13 EST /Information/News/Archive/30732.htm Shakespeare Festival at Penn State Fayette Jan. 26-30 /Information/News/Archive/30716.htm
Highlights of the week include two performances, open to the public:

•    A two-hour performance of As You Like It  by The National Players will take place Monday evening, Jan. 26, from 7-9 p.m. in the Maggie Hardy Magerko Auditorium in the Community Center.

•    Shakespeare-in-the-Schools will present a 55-minute adaptation of Macbeth Friday afternoon, Jan. 30, from noon-1:15 p.m. in the Maggie Hardy Magerko Auditorium in the Community Center.

Both performances are free, but tickets are required. Call 724-430-4271 to obtain tickets.

The festival week also includes two Shakespeare workshops. Both are open to the public; tickets are not required for the workshops.

•    “Actors’ Journey Through Shakespeare,” a demonstration presented by cast members of the National Players acting company, on Tuesday, Jan. 27, noon-2 p.m. in the Maggie Hardy Magerko Auditorium in the Community Center.

•    “Bringing a Shakespeare Speech Alive,” a demonstration presented by Shakespeare-in-the-Schools, on Wednesday, Jan. 28, noon-1:30 p.m. in the Maggie Hardy Magerko Auditorium in the Community Center.

Rounding out the week are special Shakespeare-related exhibits in the Penn State Fayette Library available for public viewing, including “Shakespeare’s Stratford,” a guest exhibit of photographs taken by Dennis Brestensky; a display of Fayette Campus Shakespeare books, videos, CDs and DVDs; and unique and imaginative projects created by students from previous Introduction to Shakespeare classes at the Fayette Campus. Library hours are: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

]]> Fri, 16 Jan 2009 13:24:26 EST /Information/News/Archive/30716.htm DCNR staff learns about criminal procedure at Fayette Campus /Information/News/Archive/30715.htm  
DCNR Forestry

Instrumental in launching and presenting this specialized course are, from left: Joe Segilia, director of Continuing Education at Penn State Fayette; training organizers Robert McJilton and Lee Jordan, fire inspectors for DCNR Forestry; and Jack Heneks, lead instructor and assistant district attorney for Fayette County. ]]> Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:51:12 EST /Information/News/Archive/30715.htm Public invited to debut of Trading Floor Jan. 23 /Information/News/Archive/30714.htm
]]> Thu, 15 Jan 2009 15:51:47 EST /Information/News/Archive/30714.htm January 20 event to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. /Information/News/Archive/30713.htm Shindana Cooper A special Martin Luther King Jr. observance featuring acclaimed storyteller and poet Shindana Cooper will take place Jan. 20 at Penn State Fayette, The Eberly Campus. The celebration—free and open to the public—begins at 11:30 a.m. in Swimmer Hall in the Williams Building.

Cooper, a professional storyteller in the centuries old tradition of the African Griot, will speak at the Fayette campus about Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy and the importance of leadership in the 21st century. Cooper has been the featured artist at Baltimore’s AFRAM Expo, Baltimore’s Artscape Celebration and The National Catholic Conference for Interracial Justice. She produced her own radio program, “Keepers of the Culture,” for WCCN in Baltimore and hosted her own television special, “Stories From ‘Round The World.” Cooper is a member of The National Association of Storytellers, The African Heritage Education and Research Institute, and the American Library Association.

In addition to observing the work and legacy of Dr. King, the Jan. 20 program will recognize dozens of Fayette County’s African-American students for significant achievement in academic scholarship, community service, athletics and performing arts.

On the actual Martin Luther King Day holiday date, Jan. 19, Penn State Fayette students (who have a day off from classes) will gather to have a “Day On” to perform community service with fellow students from the Penn State Beaver, Dubois, Greater Allegheny, New Kensington and Shenango campuses.

The Martin Luther King Jr. celebration at Penn State Fayette is sponsored by the campus’ Diversity Task Force.

]]> Mon, 05 Jan 2009 17:13:44 EST /Information/News/Archive/30713.htm