After almost 38 years with Penn State, John R. Murphy, director of student affairs at Penn State Wilkes-Barre, has announced plans for retirement at the end of this month. He will be feted at a retirement celebration on Saturday, January 24, 2004 from 3-5 PM (snow date January 25) at the campus in Lehman.

A native of Connecticut, Murphy earned his bachelor of science degree in political science from Marietta College in Ohio and his master’s degree in counseling at the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut. He has served as director of student affairs at the Wilkes-Barre campus since 1967. From 1991-93, Murphy was temporarily assigned to University Park campus when Dr. James Ryan, former campus executive officer at Penn State Wilkes-Barre, was named vice-president of continuing education. Murphy served as Ryan’s assistant and as an assistant to William Asbury, vice-president of student affairs.

Highly respected by his colleagues, Murphy has been the recipient of several awards during his tenure at Penn State. In 1995, he was the first person to receive the John W. Beatty Outstanding Chief Student Affairs Officer Award (he received this award a second time in 1999). Other awards include the Hayfield Community Service Award and the Robert J. Scannell Roll of Honor for service to Commonwealth College athletics’ programs. In addition, Murphy was selected to attend Harvard University’s Management Development Program for College and University Administrators in 1986. He is a member of the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, American Association of University Administrators, and the Luzerne/Lackawanna Dean’s Association.

Murphy will spend a good deal of his time in retirement working on his book, "What They Didn’t Tell Me in Graduate School," a series of observations based on his experiences. “The book’s purpose is not to instruct,” he said, “but to inspire. It illustrates what we in student affairs positions really do, and how graduate course work relates to the actual job. We are like investment brokers, but, unlike others who invest in stocks and bonds, we invest in people’s lives.”

Murphy resides in Dallas, Pa., with his wife, Shawn. They have three daughters, Katelyn, Jennifer, and Brennan, and three grandchildren.

A scholarship to benefit future students is being developed in Murphy’s name. To contribute to the scholarship fund, donations may be sent to the Office of Institutional Advancement, Penn State Wilkes-Barre, P.O. Box PSU, Lehman, PA 18627-0217.

Flanagan-Herstek has been with the University since 1990, serving as coordinator of the division of undergraduate students and department head of advising/counseling and registrar services. She holds a bachelor of science in elementary education with a minor in psychology and a master of science in human services administration. She has been listed in Who’s Who of American Women, Who’s Who in the East, and is a 1989 graduate of Leadership Wilkes-Barre.

As DSA, Flanagan-Herstek will be responsible for the overall administration of student programs and services at the campus in Lehman, including directing the planning, organization and implementation of student personnel services in the program areas of student activities, admissions, financial aid, recreation and athletics, and health services.

On Monday, January 19, James Chester will lecture at noon on African American Ethnicity and Martin Luther King, Jr. in Hayfield House 105. A question and answer period will follow. Mr. Chester is Act 48 Certified by Penn State University and a PA Dept of Education Professional Development Certified Provider. He was formerly with the Dept of Environmental Resources and the Treasurer for the Northeast Network These events are sponsored by the Campus Environment Team and/or the Nesbitt Library.

For more information, call 675-9284.

The workshops will be held at the campus in Lehman on Thursdays, March 18 - April 1 from 6-8 PM. For more information, call 570-675-9220 or email wbce@outreach.psu.edu

Dr. Ivanov graduated with honors from Kiev University, Faculty of Mathematics. He earned his doctoral degree from the Institute of Mathematics of the Ukrainian Academy of Sciences. He has authored and coauthored more than 70 research papers and articles. Previously, Dr. Ivanov received a grant from the National Science Foundation for his cooperative research work with a group of mathematicians at the University of Chile, resulting in several publications. In addition, he was awarded a grant from the National Research Council to support research with professor D. Khusainov at the Kiev National University in Ukraine, also resulting in numerous publications.

Dr. Ivanov resides in Trucksville and has taught mathematics at the campus in Lehman since 1994.

“Penn State Wilkes-Barre is well-positioned to begin offering this degree immediately,” said Dr. Steven D. Putzel, associate professor of English at the campus. “We have a faculty with national and international reputations and with extensive teaching and research expertise in: American & British literature, comparative literature, creative writing, drama, advertising theory, film & media studies, popular culture, women’s studies, computer conferencing, and professional writing. This program is modeled directly on the English baccalaureate offered at Penn State University Park, though our class size is much smaller so students get more personal attention.”

The addition of the 4-year English degree brings to seven the number of baccalaureate degrees that can be completed at the campus in Lehman. Students also have the option of spending two years at the Wilkes-Barre campus, then completing their degree at another Penn State location, including University Park. But with this new degree, students can earn a four-year Penn State English degree without leaving the area.

For more information on the new English degree program, or other programs, contact the Admissions office at 570-675-9238 or wbadmissions@psu.edu

High school juniors and seniors who are undecided about their future college plans are invited, along with their parents, to attend the “Be a Penn Stater This Fall” open house at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. The open house will be held on Sunday, March 7, in the Center for Technology beginning at 1:00 p.m.

Applications for admission are still being accepted for fall, 2004 and admissions procedures and criteria will be explained. The open house provides an opportunity to learn about the programs, facilities and resources available at Penn State Wilkes-Barre in Lehman. In addition, faculty, admissions counselors and staff will be on hand to discuss associate and baccalaureate degree programs, student activities, athletic programs, scholarship opportunities and financial aid.

With the recent addition of two new degree programs, the associate degree in Nanofabrication Manufacturing Technology and bachelor’s degree in English, location-bound students can now choose from seven associate and seven baccalaureate degrees that can be completed at the campus. Students may also complete course work for the first two years of most of Penn State’s 160+ degree majors at the campus and then transfer to another location, including University Park, to complete their degree. General information about Penn State will also be available.

Refreshments will be provided. To make reservations, or for more information, please call 675-9238, e-mail bjk8@psu.edu, or register on-line at www.wb.psu.edu

British novelist Woolf’s representations of Venice exemplify the way writers transform real places into imaginative constructs. Journey with her to an ancient and modern Venice as it was transported to London in an 1891 stage extravaganza. She writes of Venice as the city where lovers meet, where people contract typhoid, and where the Orient Express embarks to exotic worlds. Dr. Putzel will deliver Woolf’s view of Venice through a series of slides taken from manuscripts and rare books housed at the British Library. This presentation is based on research toward a book entitled, “Virginia Woolf and the Theater.”

This lecture is free and open to the public. It will be held in the Science Building’s Bierly Auditorium and light refreshments will be served. For more information, call 570-675-2171.

Since its inception in 2002, AOJ has been one of the fastest growing degree programs at the campus in Lehman. Students preparing to begin their internships are Sherri Kuderka (Department of Corrections); Jennifer Dongas (Luzerne County Court Administrator's Office); Jessica Gorzkowski (Wyoming County Probation Dept.); David Fisher (I.R.S.); Mark Hilpp (Wilkes-Barre Police Dept.); Anthony Dalessandro (Luzerne County Juvenile Probation); Ryan Gildea (Luzerne County District Attorney's Office); Peter Staffaroni (Lackawanna County District Attorney's Office); April Williams (Wyoming Valley Alcohol & Drug Services); Timothy McDermott (Luzerne County District Attorney's Office); Valerie Makowiec (Law Offices of Laputka, Bayless, Ecker & Cohn).

Chocolate-dipped pretzels are available in white chocolate, milk and dark chocolate at $3/bag. The deadline for orders is March 26 and pretzels will be delivered on April 7 and 8. For more information or to order pretzels, call Penn State Wilkes-Barre’s Development Office at 570-675-9228.

The camps provide challenging and enriching activities for students from two to eighteen years old. Created to develop or spark and interest in science and technology, camps are also available for budding artists, journalists, and sports enthusiasts. Hands-on activities, experiments, and projects with experienced instructors are geared to each grade level. Seventeen new camps have been added, including camps for pre-schoolers and early morning and late afternoon camps, designed to help working parents.

Discounts are available for children registering for three or more camps. Students may purchase lunch or may bring lunch from home. While children attend camps, parents/guardians are welcome to use the campus library or the exercise/weight room in the Athletic Building. Camps start on June 21 and run through July 30. For more information, or a complete brochure, email or call 570-675-9220.

The University’s Board of Trustees created The Trustee Scholarship Program in July 2002 as a five-year, $100 million scholarship initiative, which matches Penn State supporters with general University funds to assist financially needy students. Penn State University is committed to insuring that a Penn State education remains affordable for all qualified students and the Trustee Scholarship Program is one way of making this possible. The Office of Student Aid determines who qualifies for scholarship consideration by an analysis of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FASFA). After eligible students have been selected, the College in which the scholarship was designated will choose the recipient within their college based on their own criteria.

The incentive behind The Trustee Scholarship Program is that the donor is able to “double the impact” of a gift because the University provides a match until this program concludes on June 30, 2007. This unique criteria doubles the annual amount awarded to students. Trustee Scholarships reach more students and gives them more money—this is vitally important at a time when college costs are rising. And these scholarships go to students in need. More and more students meet admission standards to the University but need help to pay for college. Trustee Scholarships reach the very heart of Penn State's land-grant tradition of access to a college education.

Mr. Fortinsky is a member of Penn State Wilkes-Barre's Advisory Board as well as the University’s Board of Trustees. A graduate of Penn State with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, he received the University’s Distinguished Alumni Award in 1999. Mrs. Fortinsky received the University’s Honorary Alumni Award in 2001. In previous years, the Fortinskys have endowed three additional scholarships at Penn State Wilkes-Barre including the Harold P. Fortinsky Endowed Scholarship, Jacob & Dora P. Fortinsky Endowed Scholarship, and the Shirley & Robert Fortinsky Endowed Scholarship. For information regarding a Trustee Scholarship, please contact the office of institutional advancement at  570-675-9228.

Recently faculty, staff, and students at Penn State Wilkes-Barre were invited to vie for the title of “campus strongest man and strongest woman” in the Athletics & Recreation Building’s state-of-the-art weight room/fitness center.

The contest, brainchild of Thomas Winter, Ph.D., professor of physics, grew out of a physics class he was teaching. “I created a hands-on lab to go with a topic, work and power, which we cover in our physics course,” said Dr. Winter. “Students spent two hours in the weight room performing and analyzing five exercises: chins, dips, bench press, shoulder press, and leg press, determining their own work and power output.  Students got a lot out of it both in terms of learning the concepts from first-hand experience and, at the same time, getting a good workout.  With the latter in mind, and to encourage fitness, I decided to make a contest out of it. Focusing on three of the five events, and coming up with a simple way to judge the winner, I opened it up to the entire campus.”

The contest was a 3-day event and contestants competed against each other in chin, dip, and bench press. First place winners, Craig Smith and Donna Smolow, each received a Penn State sports watch and Penn State regalia. A.J. Kusmierz and Michael Butler tied for second place in the men’s division; Kelly Spencer placed second in the women’s division.

WVW team members who participated in the JETS/TEAMS competition are: Dane Olivian, Viral Tejani, Neil Mucha, William McGarry, Brian Malys, Russel Bregman, Fawzi Hindi, and Stacey DuBois. The team was coached by Marianne Matysczak.

The JETS/TEAMS competition is co-sponsored by the Pennsylvania Society of Professional Engineers (PSPE), Luzerne County Chapter. Tunkhannock Area High School placed second and Dallas High School placed third.

Participants must be at least 21-years old. For more information, call 570-675-9220 or email wbce@outreach.psu.edu

Since 2000, the U.S. has invested millions of dollars into nanotechnology research and development. The National Science Foundation predicts a high demand in the near future for a workforce of highly qualified and trained technicians and technologists to run the processes needed, to troubleshoot this expensive equipment, and to assist in the development of products using nanotechnology.

This presentation is open to the general public. Faculty and staff from the Wilkes-Barre campus will be on hand to discuss educational opportunities in nanotechnology. To register or for more information, call 570-675-9238 or e-mail: wbadmissions@psu.edu

The public is invited to attend; light refreshments will be served. For more information, call 675-9134.

For more information, contact Ina Lubin at 570-675-9253 or wbce@outreach.psu.edu

Joseph Huben, Hughestown, has been named Penn State Wilkes-Barre’s 2004 Adult Learner of the Year. Huben is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Administration of Justice with a minor in business.

Each year the Luzerne County Council on Adult Higher Education, a consortium of the Adult/Continuing Education offices of College Misericordia, King’s College, Luzerne County Community College, Penn State Wilkes-Barre, and Wilkes University sponsors an awards ceremony and dinner to recognize outstanding achievement by an adult learner at each institution. This year, the Outstanding Adult Learner festivities were held at Penn State Wilkes-Barre on Wednesday, March 24.

Huben was employed as a supervisor at a factory until Dec. 26, 1998 when he was in a serious car accident, which led to numerous operations and finally the amputation of his leg below the knee. He spent months in physical therapy and was unable to return to his job. After much soul-searching and with encouragement from the office of vocational rehabilitation, Joe enrolled at Penn State Wilkes-Barre in the fall, 2000.  He was still adjusting to his prosthesis and experienced many difficulties navigating the campus. Unfortunately, Joe developed an infection in his leg and was forced to withdraw from school.  During his recovery, he wrote “The Road to Acceptance,” an article for the Amputee Coalition of America. Medical setbacks delayed Joe’s return to Penn State until summer, 2001.  Since his enthusiastic return, Joe is a dean’s list student, he is active in the Student Support Services as a mentor for incoming freshman students, and he is a tutor in the campus Center for Academic Success. 

He is also the father of three sons, one of whom recently joined him at Penn State Wilkes-Barre as a Liberal Arts major.

Joe Huben is shown in the photo with Patricia Staskiel, counselor and grants coordinator for student support services.

Drinking alcohol has become a part of our social character, but for some it can be addictive and devastating. “Mocktails,” beverages made with no alcohol, showed students there can be a fun alternative to alcoholic drinks. An alcohol screening self-test was also available to students. Their score determined if they show signs of alcohol abuse.

For more information on CPATODA, visit: http://www.psu.edu/dept/ATOD/

Atty. Michelle Olshefski, instructor in the administration of justice (AOJ) program head at Penn State Wilkes-Barre, has been named Penn Stater of the Quarter. The Penn Stater of the Quarter is a member of the campus community who has uniquely demonstrated special concern for the campus, has achieved a significant honor or goal that benefits the campus, or demonstrates special dedication to the mission of the campus.

“In her leadership role in the administration of justice program, Michelle has worked effectively with students and with Penn State Fayette as they extended this program to us,” said Katherine Flanagan-Herstek, interim director of academic affairs. “Her dedicated and successful efforts during this quarter have positioned us to both clarify the application and registration process for new students, and to benefit the campus by increasing enrollments in AOJ, our fastest growing program.”

Atty. Olshefski joined the Penn State Wilkes-Barre faculty in 2002. She is a 1992 graduate of distinction from Eastern College in St. David’s, Pa. with a degree in Business Management and she earned her Juris Doctor Degree from Temple University School of Law. She served as assistant district attorney for several years in Luzerne County and Nassau County, NY.

Two Penn State W-B students earned distinguished recognition for their performance at the conference. Outstanding delegate awards went to Andrew Honeychuck, an international politics major, and David Olsolnick, an economics major. Neil Boyle, a freshman business major, received honorable mention.

The Model Arab League is a part of the Model United Nations (MUN) program at Penn State Wilkes-Barre, both a student club and a course taken for credit.  The MUN is a simulation of the actual committees and agencies of the United Nations that enables students to learn about and become involved in real issues of international relations. Students gain valuable skills in research, writing and speaking.

Yudichak, state representative in the 119th district since 1998, is a graduate of Greater Nanticoke Area High School, Wyoming Seminary, and The Pennsylvania State University. In Harrisburg, Rep. Yudichak serves on the Education Committee, the Environmental Resources & Energy Committee, and the Finance Committee. He serves as the co-chair of the bicameral Penn State Forum on Higher Education. He is a leading advocate for regional municipal cooperation and is noted for his leadership on major issues such as tax reform, health care, education, and the environment.

Rep. Yudichak is active in numerous civic organizations including The Luzerne Foundation, the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Advisory Board, Newport Township Lions Club, Plymouth Township Recreation Association, and Sons of the American Legion - Larksville Post. He founded the Yudichak Family Lighthouse Fund, a local charity benefiting local libraries and youth programs, to honor his parents and six siblings.

Approximately 70 students will receive associate and baccalaureate degrees at commencement which will begin at 10 a.m. in the Athletics and Recreation Building. A reception for the graduates and their families will immediately follow the ceremony.

The Walker Award recognizes a student from each campus in the Penn State Commonwealth College whose outstanding qualities of character, scholarship, leadership, and citizenship has positively influenced fellow students and has contributed to the prestige and well-being of the campus and to the reputation of the University as a whole. Honeychuck is vice-president of the Student Government Association, a member of the Model United Nations (MUN) Club, and a member of the Four Seasons Club. Recently, at the annual southeastern MUN Model Arab League, a simulation of the actual Arab League at Converse College in South Carolina, Honeychuck earned distinguished recognition for his performance. He was also instrumental in organizing area Penn State students to participate in Rally in the Rotunda in Harrisburg, an effort to encourage PA legislators to place higher education funding as a priority in the General Assembly.

Honeychuck, a 2002 graduate of Montrose Area High School, is the son of Martin and Debra Honeychuck of South Montrose, PA and Colleen and John McGuire of Raleigh, NC. Recently completing two years at the Wilkes-Barre campus, he will attend Penn State’s University Park campus this fall where he will pursue a bachelor’s degree in international politics, with minors in economics and Middle East studies.

In addition to maintaining an exceptional grade point average, Price was an active member in the Student Government Association, the Four Seasons Club, and the women’s soccer team. She is a volunteer for Habitat for Humanity and the St. Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen and for the past five years, she has been a sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserves. She will receive her diploma from Penn State on May 15 with a bachelor’s degree in business/marketing and management.

The Student Government Association (SGA) at Penn State Wilkes-Barre has selected Scott Stuccio, instructor in meteorology, as recipient of the Hayfield Outstanding Instructor of the Year Award. This award is based on a combination of teaching excellence and contribution to the general welfare of students at the campus.

Stuccio, of Kingston, was cited for his personality, his knowledge of the subject matter, and his natural ability to teach. Stuccio was instrumental in the installation of a VantagePro Wireless weather station on the campus which he has incorporated into his classroom assignments for gathering weather data and analyzing weather conditions.

Stuccio earned his bachelor’s degree in meteorology from The Pennsylvania State University. In addition to teaching at Penn State Wilkes-Barre, he is also chief meteorologist at WYOU-TV 22. Shown, from left are: Andrew Honeychuck, SGA vice-president; Stuccio, and Scott Finlon, SGA president.

AOJ was initiated on the Wilkes-Barre campus in fall 2001 through a combination of courses presented at the campus and pic-tel courses delivered from Fayette. “Penn State Wilkes-Barre is certainly appreciative of the cooperation and help we received from the Fayette campus, without which we would not have been able to establish our own independent 4-year degree program,” said Michelle Olshefski, AOJ program head. “AOJ has been tremendously popular at the campus and we expect continued growth and success. I believe the popularity of the program is due, in part, to the wide array of career opportunities for graduates.”

Olshefski has headed up the program since its inception. As a former assistant district attorney in New York and Pennsylvania, she brings extensive courtroom experience to the classroom, including felony and misdemeanor jury and bench trials. Penn State Wilkes-Barre is the third of Penn State’s Commonwealth College campuses to offer a baccalaureate degree in the administration of justice. This program will be officially in effect when students return to the campus in the fall.

For additional information regarding AOJ or any of Penn State’s 160+ degree programs, contact 675-9238 or visit the web site: www.wb.psu.edu

John T. Yudichak, state representative in the 119th district, delivered the commencement address. In Harrisburg, Rep. Yudichak serves on the Education Committee, the Environmental Resources & Energy Committee, and the Finance Committee. He serves as the co-chair of the bicameral Penn State Forum on Higher Education. He is a leading advocate for regional municipal cooperation and is noted for his leadership on major issues such as tax reform, health care, education, and the environment.

Rep. Yudichak is active in numerous civic organizations including The Luzerne Foundation, the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Advisory Board, Newport Township Lions Club, Plymouth Township Recreation Association, and Sons of the American Legion - Larksville Post. He founded the Yudichak Family Lighthouse Fund, a local charity benefiting local libraries and youth programs, to honor his parents and six siblings.

The Penn State Wilkes-Barre Outstanding Community Service Award was presented to local restaurateur, Eric Lee. This award is given to a member of the community whose volunteer services have positively affected the quality of life in the greater Wyoming Valley. Mr. Lee, Shavertown, has been involved with numerous community service projects including a pro-active drunk driving awareness program, the Friends of Sharon, with the Wyoming Valley Alcohol and Drug Services. He organized a fund raising event that benefited abused women and children and he cooperated with WVIA to bring internationally known Chinese master chef, Martin Yan of "Yan Can Cook," to conduct a fundraiser. A one-time advisory board scholarship in Mr. Lee’s name will be given to a student enrolled at the campus for the 2004-2005 academic year who has demonstrated academic excellence and community service.

A reception for graduates and their families immediately followed the ceremony.

Approximately 900 students attended presentations representing careers including the criminal justice system, performing arts, engineering, athletics, medicine, and teaching. The presenters discuss educational requirements, salary levels and opportunities for advancement, future job markets, other related occupations, work ethics, interview skills and interaction with technology.

Mark Sobeck, Penn State Wilkes-Barre Advisory Board chair, recently presented the board’s 2004 Outstanding Community Service Award to Eric Lee of Shavertown. This award is given by the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Advisory Board to a member of the community whose volunteer service has positively affected the quality of life in the greater Wyoming Valley.

Lee was born in Borneo and immigrated to the U.S. to attend the University of Georgia where he earned a master’s degree in journalism. He began his restaurant career as a dishwasher in Long Island and moved to Wilkes-Barre in 1976 where he now operates three Chinese restaurants. Lee has been involved in numerous community service projects including the organization of a pro-active drunk driving awareness program, the Friends of Sharon, with Wyoming Valley Alcohol & Drug Services; the coordination of a fund raising event that benefited abused women and children; and cooperation with WVIA-TV 44 to bring internationally known Chinese master chef, Martin Yan of "Yan Can Cook," for a fundraising effort.

A one-time Advisory Board scholarship in Lee’s name will be given to a student enrolled at the campus for the 2004-2005 academic year who has demonstrated academic excellence and community service.

Penn State Wilkes-Barre assistant professor of physics and astronomy, Timothy Lawlor, Ph.D., will join colleagues from the University of North Dakota in New Delhi, India, to witness the rare transit of Venus which will occur on June 8, 2004. This event has not been seen since the last transits occurred in 1882 and 1874.

According to the Venus Transit 2004 India Expedition web site, a transit of Venus is one of the rarest of planetary alignments. This phenomenon occurs when Venus passes directly in front of the sun (similar to a solar eclipse). Unlike the solar eclipse, however, where the moon passes across and covers much of the sun, Venus appears as a small dot moving across its face. Only Mercury and Venus, planets between the earth and the sun, can transit and there have been only six Venus transits since the invention of the telescope.

“We are traveling to New Delhi to view the transit because it will be more than two thirds over when the sun rises in the eastern United States,” said Dr. Lawlor. “In India, the transit will be visible from ingress to egress. We also have contacts in Delhi that will allow us the use of their Internet.  We will be webcasting the observations live from Delhi and we will be posting images on the Goddard Space Flight Center's web site.” The next transit will occur on June 6, 2012, followed by transits in 2117 and 2125. The Wilkes-Barre campus Friedman Observatory will be open at sunrise on June 8 to view and photograph the transit. 

For more information, call 570-675-9149 or visit www.wb.psu.edu/observatory and click on Venus Transit. You may also view the images on the Goddard Space Flight Center's web site:  http://sunearth.gsfc.nasa.gov/sunearthday/2004/vt_observe_2004.htm

Dean’s List students are: Monica L. Adams, Wyalusing; Tyler A. Albee, Ashley; Thomas J. Amico, Wyoming; Linda A. Andrejkko, Edwardsville; Kevin J. Arnaud, Dallas; Ryan C. Balara, Shavertown; Jason L. Bator, Scranton; Frank M. Bennett, Montrose; Kelly J. Blinn, Trucksville; Daisy B. Boice, Noxen; Aaron J. Bolton, Hanover Twp.; Shawn Bonsall, Wilkes-Barre; Jennifer Bott, Hazleton; Joseph A. Boylan, Kingston; Neil D. Boyle, Wilkes-Barre; Edmund B. Brooks, Wilkes-Barre; Bethanie H. Buerger, Hunlock Creek; Michael S. Butler, Middleport, NY; Christopher D. Callaio, Exeter; Kristel D. Carter, Dallas; Tamara A. Chaleby, Auburn; Jeffrey D. Chiampi, Jenkins Twp.; Bernard S. Chimock, Harveys Lake; Gina L. Chocallo, Dallas; Toby I. Ciprich, Montrose; Samuel J. Cohen, Kingston; Rachele Cole, Dallas; Melissa Conrad, Wilkes-Barre; Thomas R. Conti, Wilkes-Barre; Kristy Corbett, Gouldsboro; Christopher J. Coslett, Hunlock Creek; Chad M. Cropper, Montoursville; Sameeta Dasari, Wilkes-Barre; Melissa S. DeTorrice, Plains; Joseph Dougherty, Wilkes-Barre; William H. Evans, Hunlock Creek; Marla A. Fino, Wyoming; Lauren Fleming, Wilkes-Barre; James E. Fowler, Brackney; Brian P. Gallagher, Wilkes-Barre; Jessica Gorzkowski, Tunkhannock; Michael T. Gozdiskowski, Tunkhannock; Craig Michael D. Gritzen, Swoyersville; Sarah E. Gronski, W. Wyoming; Jennifer K. Gunshannon, Kingston; Alan J. Gurgal, Kingston; Daniel E. Haddle, Dallas; Shawn H. Hamersley, Hunlock Creek; Elizabeth R. Hanas, Plains; Leslie A. Handley, Kingston; Eric M. Harwood, Nanticoke; Jessica L. Hess, Shickshinny; Jennifer Higgins, Tunkhannock; Mark Hilpp, Wilkes-Barre; Kristin E. Holland, Ashley; Andrew M. Honeychuck, S. Montrose; Matthew J. Hoover, Dallas; Joseph Huben, Hughestown; Christine A. Hudak, Sweet Valley; Stephanie L. Jacobs, Wilkes-Barre; Elizabeth R. Janoski, Dallas; Jeffrey A. Jumper, Trucksville; Daniel Karlotski, Hunlock Creek; Robert E. Kennedy, Columbia Crossroads; Ian M. Klish, Nanticoke; Timothy L. Kluger, Glen Lyon; Mara A. Koenigsfeld, Apo Ae AE; Erin E. Kotchik, Trucksville; Joseph Kovach, Plains; Nicholas J. Kovaleski, Exeter; Amy J. Kozar, Dallas; Joan L. Kupstas, Dallas; Alexander J. Kusmierz, Wyalusing; Ian M. Linsinbigler, Harveys Lake; Heather J. Lumadue, W. Decatur; Nicole R. Magyar, Mountaintop; Therese L. Maxfield, Nanticoke; Philip T. Maynard, Brackney; Kelly M. McAdarra, Wilkes-Barre; Jared E. McTague, Plymouth; Ryan W. McCleary Montoursville; Timothy McDermott, Scranton; Matthew J. Morgan, Shavertown; Dawn M. Mortimer, Wilkes-Barre; Heather M. Mosley, Luzerne; John A. Mullen, Ashley; Casey E. Noreika, Dallas; Jonathan T. Nutche, Shavertown; David A. Osolnick, Luzerne; Amy E. Pack, Shavertown; Michael Padavan, Swoyersville; Jere P. Pallis, Tunkhannock; Daniel J. Pape, Plains; Daniel M. Pentka, Shavertown; Nathan M. Peterson, Harveys Lake; Chester Pickard, Benton; Amanda Pietrzykoski, Swoyersville; John T. Pitcavage, Luzerne; Cynthia R. Price, Wilkes-Barre; Virginia Raggi, Edwardsville; Mary K. Rhoads, Bloomsburg; David M. Riaubia, Sweet Valley; Charles D. Rigdon, Tunkhannock; Matthew P. Rother, Wilkes-Barre; Charles J. Ryan, Hunlock Creek; Chad M. Sakoski, Shawanese; Margaret Santiago, Hazleton; Melissa L. Saxton, Granville Summit; Paul Shedlock, Wilkes-Barre; Christopher M. Sheerer, Avoca; Shaun D. Shillabeer, Wilkes-Barre; Danielle D. Sholcosky, Dickson City; Scott P. Sims, Plymouth; Matthew J. Sokola, Hanover Twp.; Erin L. Sokolowski, Nanticoke; Louis S. Spaciano, Harveys Lake; Lee P. Stanziale, Wilkes-Barre; Maria K. Stevens, Dallas; Leonard J. Strong, Nanticoke; Sara A. Stull, Forty-Fort; Brad Suchoski, Wilkes-Barre; Alyse M. Taddei, Dallas; Mei Hong Tang, Kingston; Robert P. Thomas, Mountaintop; Megan A. Thorne, Sweet Valley; Derek S. Traver, Dallas; Daniel M. Tucker, Mountaintop; Camille D. Valvano, Dallas; Krissie L. Vensky, Pittston; Steven J. Weber, Dallas; Heather L. Wheaton, Rome; Melissa Wickizer, Wilkes-Barre; Jolene M. Williams, Pittston; Christopher Wincek, Wilkes-Barre; Michael P. Yurchak, Dallas; Nathan R. Zagorsky, Plymouth; Keith E. Zielen, Larksville; Mary Beth Ziobro, Dupont.

The three Penn State campuses in the Northeast – Hazleton, Wilkes-Barre and Worthington Scranton have developed a Tri-Campus Career Services website for current and prospective students, alumni and employers. The combined website includes resources from all three campuses and the University, along with several links relating to career exploration and employment.

“Although it is important that each of our Penn State campuses provide career resources on site, current technology offers us new ways to share these resources to better serve our students,” says Dan P. Downey, coordinator of vocational career services. “We are always here to meet one-on-one with students, but the Tri-Campus website gives them a comprehensive look at important career information available throughout the region.”

The Tri-Campus Career Services website was devised at Penn State Wilkes-Barre, which currently serves as site administrator. It outlines materials available in the various career offices and provides a listing of services available at the three campuses, recruitment programs, job opportunities, and special events. “Announcements for Penn State regional events and area job fairs can all be found on this one site,” says Dawn Gomez, Penn State Worthington Scranton career counselor. “The three Northeast campuses are within a reasonable driving distance of one another, so students from one campus can easily attend events being held at one of the other campuses. We also post events scheduled at University Park so that students from all three campuses can share rides and participate together.”

Area Career Services representatives hold an annual Penn State Northeast Career Fair, which rotates from campus to campus each year. Programs like this are included on the site. “Regional events increase our students’ ability to network,” says Kathy Maxwell, Penn State Hazleton career counselor. “Giving our students opportunities to meet business professionals from outside their immediate communities opens new doors for internships or employment.” The Tri-Campus Career website also provides a link to College Central Network (CCN), which was initiated by Penn State’s Commonwealth College. CCN is a clearing house of all job postings provided to Career Services at the 12 Commonwealth College campuses throughout the state.

Penn State students and current students, who are undecided about their major, can also benefit from the Tri-Campus site. “There are so many options for students at Penn State. The University offers over 160 majors, so changing majors isn’t the same hassle it can be at a smaller school,” says Gerry Wall, Penn State Wilkes-Barre/regional career counselor. The Tri-Campus Career website provides a link to “What’s Your Major @ PSU.”  The site offers a simple questionnaire and once it is completed students are directed to various Penn State majors based on their interests. It also lists the campuses providing those majors.

“We think the new regional site is a valuable resource for students of all ages before, during or after completing their college experience,” says Mr. Downey. “They can take advantage of interest surveys and labor statistics before deciding on a career path, explore new majors while in school, or they can use it during their job search.”

Shown in the photo are career representatives from the three northeast region campuses, seated from left, Gerry Wall, Penn State Wilkes-Barre; and Kathy Maxwell, Penn State Hazleton; and standing, Dan P. Downey, coordinator of vocational career services; and Dawn Gomez, Penn State Worthington Scranton.

The tournament is open to all amateur golfers. Champion flight wins Penn State blazers with 24k gold-plated buttons. Hole-in-one prizes include a cruise or vacation trip for two. The first hole-in-one on Hole #15 wins a Chevrolet 2004 Malibu Maxx from Ken Pollock Chevrolet, Inc.

Cost is $100/person. Proceeds benefit Penn State Wilkes-Barre student programs. Call Michele Zabriski, alumni & development specialist, at 570-675-9202 or mtz3@psu.edu to register or for more information. Deadline for registration is July 9, 2004.

In addition to seven baccalaureate and seven associate degree programs that can be completed at the campus, Penn State Wilkes-Barre offers the first two years of most of the University’s 160+ degree majors. An associate degree program in Nanomanufacturing Engineering Technology was added to the campus’s mix of programs last year and a 4-year bachelor’s degree in English has been approved to begin this fall.

Information regarding admissions procedures, scholarships and financial aid, academic advising, and career counseling will be available. The open houses will start each night at 6:30 p.m. in the Bell Atlantic Center for Technology. For more information, or to make reservations, call 570-675-9238, e-mail wbadmissions@psu.edu or visit  http://www.wb.psu.edu/

Students who enjoy making pictures will like the morning session (9 a.m. - noon), PC Palette, which will demonstrate drawing and animating pictures on the computer. Instructor, Frank Sodoski, will work with students to draw characters and diagrams, then animate them for high-tech fun.

The afternoon session (1-4 p.m.) will feature Wizards and Cauldrons: Is it magic or science? Participants will investigate the science behind the magic with instructor, Allison Davis, and live a week as a wizard from a book. They’ll whip up all sorts of chemical concoctions, make an edible wand, and play with “dragon drool.”

Each camp is $79/person and each camper receives a free water bottle. For more information, contact John Swayze at 570-265-2171, ext. 3019 or e-mail jos3@psu.edu.

According to Wilkes-Barre campus student government president, Scott Finlon, “Penn State as a whole, even with the tuition increases, is a value compared to private colleges and universities where we would be paying double, triple, or even more. Penn State Wilkes-Barre remains a lower cost than the University Park campus, and we also have a lower cost of living.” Dr. Mary E. Hines, campus executive officer at the campus, agrees. “This campus remains the main access point to Penn State for many local students who do not have to pay the higher University Park tuition rates when they choose to attend our campus for their first two years,” said Dr. Hines. “Students who complete their degrees at this campus will be able to achieve their goal with reduced tuition for their entire program. This is truly a bargain for students who choose to earn an internationally recognized Penn State degree!”

Specific tuition rates for the University by campus location, level, residency, and program can be accessed at http://tuition.psu.edu/

“Jennifer exhibits special concern not only for the students she serves beyond a full time workday, but she also shows that concern for faculty,” said Dr. Hines. “We can count on her for doing whatever it takes to get the job done. She is frequently found staying late after work, making extra inquiries on behalf of students, or reassuring stressed out students that there are ways to work things out. In addition, Jennifer devotes many hours every year to coordinate the Regional History Day competition at the campus.”

Stombaugh is a West Nanticoke resident. She earned her B.A. in History at the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown and her M.A. in Student Affairs in Higher Education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

The golf foursome led by Dr. William Yunkunis of Tunkhannock has won the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Alumni Society 9th Annual Master’s Golf Tournament held this year at Blue Ridge Golf Club in Mountaintop. This marks the fourth win for the Yunkunis team.

The tournament raised approximately $9,000 profit to benefit Penn State Wilkes-Barre students. The championship flight team received prestigious Penn State Master’s Blazers adorned with 24K gold-plated Penn State buttons.

The winning foursome is pictured with Penn State cheerleaders, from left: cheerleader Anthony Ness, William Yunkunis, M.D., Dean Yunkunis, Tom Yunkunis, and Tom Shalata, and cheerleader Amanda Mack.

Students are asked to meet in the gymnasium at 8:30 a.m. to begin the day with a formal convocation. At this time, campus executive officer, Dr. Mary E. Hines, along with other administrative personnel, will address the students, faculty, and staff. Following convocation, first-year students will receive their student handbook/day planner; attend a seminar: Your First Year at Penn State Wilkes-Barre in 60 Minutes or Less! and participate in ice-breaking “Jack-tivities” with Jack Chambers. During lunch, students will be entertained by Big Al & Friends, a jazz, blues, and folk band. A work-study job fair and campus club fair will be held for interested students (work-study by invitation only).

Activities will continue on the first day of classes, Tuesday, Aug. 31, with the annual Student Government Association Welcome Back Cookout (12-1 p.m.) and the evening Bonfire and Cook Out (7-11 p.m.); Wednesday, Sept. 1: Mechanical Bull Riding, Joust, Football Toss, and Hockey Slap Shot; Thurs., Sept. 2: acappella music with Chapter 6 (noon-1 PM); and Friday, Sept. 3: Magic with Bill Dickson (noon-1 p.m.).

Please contact Jackie Warnick-Piatt, student activities/internships coordinator, at 570-675-9284 to register or for more information.

The Deputy Sheriffs’ Academy is offered at Penn State as an outreach service of the College of the Liberal Arts. The Act 120 program which trains Municipal Police officers is offered by colleges, universities, and selected police academies.

For more information on the Administration of Justice program or credit via portfolio assessment program, call the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Admissions Office at 570-675-9238.

Poetry readings from 1-2:30 PM are free and open to the public. Booksignings will follow the afternoon readings during which time visitors may talk with the poets and purchase their books. A coffee/tea reception will follow.

Jay Leeming earned an MFA from New School University and currently resides in Ithaca, NY. He has been a featured reader at Butler University, at the Woodstock Poetry Festival, at the Omega Institute in Rheinbeck, and at Robert Bly’s Great Mother Conference. His poems have appeared in a variety of magazines including The Bitter Oleander, Northwest Review, Euphony, Heliotrope and Ploughshares and his first book, Dynamite on a China Plate, is forthcoming from Backwaters Press.

Antonio Vallone is an associate professor of English and creative writing at Penn State DuBois. The author of two previous collections of poems, The Blackbird’s Applause and Grass Saxophones, as well as a chapbook-length poem, Chinese Bats, he is also the publisher of MAMMOTH books, a literary press, and the editor of PENNSYLVANIA ENGLISH, the journal of the Pennsylvania affiliate of the College English Association.

This free poetry series is offered as a public service to the community by Penn State Wilkes-Barre and through  the generosity of the festival sponsors. For more information or to register for the poetry festival, contact David Chin, Ph.D. at 570-675-9247 or dpc5@psu.edu.

According to Jane Kravitz Munley, associate professor, psychology/criminal justice and coordinator, criminal justice at Luzerne County Community College, “This is a good opportunity for LCCC students who want to remain in northeastern Pennsylvania to continue their education and earn a bachelor’s degree from a major university.” LCCC’s criminal justice curriculum explores basic underlying and contemporary issues in that field preparing students for entry-level positions or transfer to a bachelor’s degree program.

“We look forward to serving students who are in the process of earning their associate degree from LCCC along with those graduates who have earned their associate degree in years past and are now ready to pursue a bachelor’s degree,” said Michelle Olshefski, Esq., instructor in AOJ at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. “This degree offers the flexibility to pursue a variety of challenging careers offering attractive salaries, job security, and opportunities for advancement.” Penn State’s AOJ curriculum combines formal classroom instruction, individual study, and field experience, including an extensive internship, to prepare students for jobs at the federal, state, and local level.

For more information on LCCC’s criminal justice program, call 740-0348; for Penn State W-B’s AOJ program, call 675-9238.

To help increase interest and understanding of engineering and technology, Penn State Wilkes-Barre will host an Engineering Open House on Friday, October 15, 2004 at the Bell Atlantic Center for Technology on the campus in Lehman. High school students will have the opportunity to learn about various disciplines of engineering including aerospace, architectural, civil, environmental, electrical, mechanical, telecommunication, surveying, and more. Information on nanofabrication manufacturing technology, the newest associate degree major at the campus, will also be available.

Highlighting the program is an afternoon on-site visit to a local engineering firm where students can experience the day-to-day activities of engineers working in the field. Students can choose to visit one of the following companies: Borton-Lawson Engineering, Commonwealth Telephone, Quad Three, The Architecture & Engineering Group, or Martin & Rogers. Lunch will be provided.

Penn State Wilkes-Barre offers baccalaureate degree programs in Electrical Engineering Technology and Surveying and associate degree programs in Electrical Engineering Technology, Surveying Technology, Nanofabrication Manufacturing Technology, and Telecommunications Engineering Technology. Students can complete the first two years of many of Penn State’s baccalaureate engineering degrees at the Wilkes-Barre location, then complete their degree at another location, including University Park.

For more information or to make your reservation for the Engineering Open House, call 675-9238, e-mail wbadmissions@psu.edu or visit www.wb.psu.edu/openhouse/eoh to register on-line. Registration deadline is October 8; seating is limited.

In order to spark an interest in the subject for students from a variety of disciplines and interests, Dr. Slann drew from his many years of classroom experience to produce a text written in a conversational style that is both informative and understandable. “Using our own familiar political and social systems as reference points, we must explore the challenges and opportunities provided by the analysis of histories, cultures, religions, political processes and institutions, and cultures distinct from our own,” said Dr. Slann. “Students must be aware that what happens in a country thousands of miles away (and possibly one they never even heard of before) can impact them in a variety of ways, some positively, some negatively, and some downright destructively. Remaining aloof from world affairs is no longer an option.”

Dr. Slann earned his B.A. in History at the University of Miami, his M.A. in Political Science from the University of Connecticut, and his doctorate in the same at the University of Georgia. He has authored and co-authored several publications on terrorism and ethnic conflict, including his most recent work, Encyclopedia of Terrorism, with Cindy Combs (published by Facts on File). Dr. Slann has been called upon for his expertise on subjects including domestic and international terrorism, hostage situations, American foreign policy, Iraq, the Soviet Union, and the Middle East for newspaper, radio, and television interviews, lectures, and panel discussions and he is available to speak to community and civic organizations. In addition to his duties as director of academic affairs, Dr. Slann is teaching courses in political science and administration of justice at Penn State Wilkes-Barre and he is preparing to teach classes in terrorism and comparative politics next summer. Dr. Slann is the founder and academic advisor for the Model United Nations student organization.

Introduction to Politics was published by Atomic Dog Publishing. An On-Line Study Guide Edition is also available at http://www.atomicdog.com/.

The Student Government Association at Penn State Wilkes-Barre recently announced the revitalization of the Business Club at the campus in Lehman. The club provides opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to attend lectures, off campus seminars, and field trips. Currently, the club members are planning a canned goods drive to benefit the St. Vincent DePaul Soup Kitchen and a field trip to the Yuengling Brewery in Pottstown.

Shown, from left: John Weber, club advisor; Bobby Zybsheski, secretary; Terry Clemente, club advisor; Therese Maxfield, vice-president; Joleen Dimaggio, treasurer; Richard Bosher, president; and. Absent from the photo is: Joseph Rodano, public relations.

Students can complete seven baccalaureate or seven associate degrees at the Wilkes-Barre campus, or they can complete the first two years of more than 160 of the University’s degree programs and transfer to another location (including University Park) to finish their degree. Campus tours will be available and prospective students, their families, and alumni are encouraged to stay and enjoy a free tailgate party compliments of the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Alumni Society.

In conjunction with Penn State's celebration, Pennsylvania Gov. Edward G. Rendell has signed a proclamation declaring Oct. 30 Penn State Day across the commonwealth. In signing the proclamation, Rendell encouraged all students, faculty, staff, alumni and supporters to join in recognizing the vital role the University plays as an active community partner throughout the commonwealth.

To register for the open house, visit http://www.nepa.psu.edu/ or call the Admissions Offices at 570-675-9238.

Tom Knapp, associate professor of economics at Penn State Wilkes-Barre, will speak about the competing presidential candidates’ economic agendas on Friday, October 29, at noon, in the Science Building auditorium on the campus in Lehman.

Dr. Knapp will present an overview of the economic context of the election, including the causes and consequences of the recent recession and recovery. He will discuss the effects of the Bush tax cuts on the economy, the federal deficit, and the national debt, and he will assess each candidate’s plan for social security, public spending and taxes.  Dr. Knapp will also make a brief presentation on the economics of the Iraq war. At the conclusion of his remarks, he will address questions from the audience.

This event, sponsored by the Campus Environment Team, Campus Ministries of Northeastern PA, and the Student Activities Fund, is free and open to the public. For more information, call 570-675-9284.

Mentors identify opportunities in their every day professional activities that will allow students to increase their knowledge of the profession. They include the students in as many aspects of their career as possible and can also provide valuable networking experiences.

Anyone interested in becoming a mentor or in obtaining more information about the program may contact Dan Downey, Penn State Wilkes-Barre, at 570-675-9208 or e-mail: dpd10@psu.edu.

Generous donors to Penn State Wilkes-Barre’s 2003-2004 Annual Fund and the sponsors of endowed scholarships at the campus provided the means to award approximately 160 scholarships to first-year and returning students this academic year. Students who received scholarships recently had the opportunity to meet and thank their benefactors at the annual Scholarship Recognition dinner at Apple Tree Terrace, Dallas, Pa.

Scholarship students pictured, first row, from left: Natasha Hennings, Angela Anderson, Therese Maxfield, Lenny Yashinski, Danielle Tomkoski, Michael Butler, Sarah Chuplis, Brad Rigdon, Todd Cosgrove; Second row: Kenneth Lasoski, Steven Weber, Carolyn McGinty, Kaitlyn Musto, Neil Mucha, Jonathan Nutche, Kaitlin Monick, Stephen Williams, Amanda Boice, Megan Thorne, Nolan Bennett, Michael Gozdiskowski, Amy Pack, Shawn Hamersley, Joseph Redinski; Third row: Joe Pascucci, Eric Harwood, Eric Petrow, Jeffrey Chiampi, Lauren Noreika, Pamela Stadts, Tracey Morgan-Chopick, Matthew Empfield, Robert Kennedy, Melissa Conrad, Melissa Saxton, Melissa Wickizer, Dana Miskin; Fourth row: Robert Appleton, Jason Yaletsko, Kristina Colladay, Daniel Karlotski, Jennifer Gunshannon, Patrick Barone, Daniel Haddle, Joel Mazer, Michael Yurchak, Lauren McKenna, April Trotter, Dawn Mortimer, Ashley Hules, Christopher Zavada; Fifth row:Evan Negroni, Christopher Brzenchek, Lawrence Mahally, Chris Coslett, Nathan Peterson, Laura Shedlock, Christopher Torres, Bradley Suchoski, Aaron Bilby, Adrienne Panuski, Joseph Nowakowski, Bryan Jones; Row six: Peter Kennedy, Greg Cherkauskas, Thomas Ash, Jr., Scott Finlon.

Absent from photo are: Tyler Albee, Frank Babyak, Matthew Berlew, Anthony Capristo, Hope Defazio, Joseph Denoy, Benjamin Dodge, Linda Evans, William Evans, Marla Fino, Kyle Gildea, Ricky Gowin, Sonya Grebs, Jessica Hess, Dennis Hontz, Robert Hooper, Alexander Hunting, Timothy Kluger, Jennifer Kondertavage, Shawn Lees, Kelly McAdarra, Calvin McDougal, Frederick Merman, Daniel Pentka, Justin Roman, Joseph Sack, Margaret Santiago, Samantha Scully, Brian Stempien, Maria Stevens, Gary Strzelczyk, Sara Stull, Frank Sylvester, Krissy Vensky, Robert Winkler, and Richard Zaverack.

On Tuesday evening, November 9, 2004, Dr. Mary E. Hines, campus executive officer at Penn State Wilkes-Barre in Lehman, announced plans for the construction of an $8 million Abram Nesbitt, III Academic Commons building with groundbreaking in summer 2005. Dr. Hines made the announcement to an enthusiastic crowd of faculty, staff, students, advisory board members, and community supporters of the campus. Penn State cheerleaders, the Nittany Lion, and the PSW-B Chorus helped to kick-off the celebration with a Penn State Blue & White tailgate party. “As we approach our 90th anniversary in 2006, our newest building will blend Penn State’s educational traditions with a vision for a future of even higher quality higher education,” said Dr. Hines. “The library, classrooms and academic support services housed in the Academic Commons will provide local Penn State students and area residents new opportunities to experience the University’s excellence in teaching, research, and service.” Dr. Diane Disney, dean of the University’s Commonwealth College, was also in attendance and offered remarks to the audience.

Penn State Wilkes-Barre has been serving the educational needs of the community since 1916. The growing number of associate and bachelor’s degree programs that can be completed at the campus and the expansion of continuing education programs have presented significant space and technological challenges. Construction of the Academic Commons will add 33,000 square feet of space for research, learning and academic support. The new facility will include an enhanced Nesbitt Library, seminar rooms for class instruction and student project work, study rooms, and reading areas and lounges; spaces for cultural and intellectual events for the campus and community; additional classrooms with enhanced technological capabilities; and expanded spaces for continuing education courses for area businesses. Once the new building is completed, the former library will be renovated to house essential academic support services including the Advising/Counseling Center, Registrar, Career Center, and the Center for Academic Success.

William Davidowitz, a long-time member of the campus advisory board and chair of the campaign, stated, “As a Penn State alum, I am honored to chair this campaign which will bring numerous academic enhancements to our local students in their pursuit of a quality Penn State education.” Honorary chair, Robert A. Fortinsky, a Distinguished Penn State alum and member of the University’s Board of Trustees, said, “As we move forward to the public phase of our campaign, we will be seeking the support of community members and corporations to partner with Penn State Wilkes-Barre in this expansion of facilities to serve their needs and those of local students. Our Academic Commons will bring resources which will be shared by both our students and our communities.”

Students in the campus Surveying Club, along with members of the maintenance department, mapped out a “footprint” of the new building which will be located between the current library and Hayfield House. WNEP-TV’s SkyCam took aerial photos of the site which were presented to those in attendance at the kick-off. Peter Bohlin, president and principal, Bohlin Cywinski Jackson, unveiled a working model of the project.

Jane A. Kanyock, director of institutional advancement, said the campus has raised $5.4 million in private support toward the $8 million goal in the silent phase of the campaign. Updates and information on how to contribute to the Academic Commons project can be found at www.wb.psu.edu/academiccommons or by calling the office of institutional advancement at 570-675-9228.

Penn State Wilkes-Barre is a major cog in that engine, with a total impact of more than $49 million alone. In addition, the campus contributes significantly to Penn State’s total business volume impact of nearly $330 million in surrounding Bradford, Luzerne, Lycoming, Sullivan, Tioga and Wyoming Counties.

Overall, the University also influences an additional $6.9 billion indirectly each year through business services, research commercialization and the activities of alumni – for a total of more than $13 billion in annual economic impact in Pennsylvania.

The purpose of the study, conducted by Tripp Umbach & Associates and commissioned by Penn State, was to analyze a number of economic factors spurred by the University and gauge the value of the institution to the commonwealth. Among the factors considered were government revenue, the impact of students, employees and alumni, and research.

“Penn State’s annual economic impact of more than $6 billion represents the single largest institutional economic impact that Tripp Umbach has calculated after more than 15 years and hundreds of studies,” said Paul Umbach, president of Tripp Umbach. “While it is typical that an organization’s economic impact on its home state is roughly equivalent to its annual operating budget, Penn State’s impact is nearly three times larger, due in part to more than a half a billion in tourism generation and more than a billion in economic impact associated with out of state dollars attracted for research activities.

Based on the study’s findings, Penn State is driving approximately 2 percent of the state’s overall business volume – or $1 out of every $50 in the Pennsylvania economy. The University pumps more into the economy than other leading statewide economic entities such as airport hubs ($3.6 billion in annual impact), professional sports teams ($1 billion) and arts and cultural organizations ($600 million) combined.

Spending by out-of-state visitors alone totaled $632.7 million last year, including $6.5 million at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. Combined with spending by students ($717.7 million), employees ($522.4 million), and the University for capital improvements, goods and services ($796.3 million), Penn State drives nearly $2.67 billion in business volume into the state’s economy, with $21.4 million of that total coming from the Lehman campus.

Tax revenue coming from Penn State alone more than repays the amount of appropriation received by the University each year. In 2003, tax revenue generated $492 million for the commonwealth. Government revenue driven by Penn State included $291.1 million – $3.4 million at the Wilkes-Barre campus – as a result of its operations and payroll taxes and $201.5 million in impacts induced by alumni and businesses who benefit from Penn State research.

In sum, the University returned $1.56 in tax revenue for every $1 it received in state appropriation.

People are the driving force behind much of the University’s statewide economic impact. In terms of employment, Penn State is the state’s largest non-governmental employer. As of 2003, Penn State Wilkes-Barre had a total employment impact of 400 jobs.

To download a full summary of the economic impact study and obtain facts on the methodology used and other information, go to http://www.psu.edu/ur/topics/economic_impact/ .

Thirteen students at Penn State Wilkes-Barre were among the first to reap the benefits of the Trustee Scholarship Program, established by the University in July, 2002. The University’s Board of Trustees created this program as a five-year, $100 million scholarship initiative, that matches trustee scholarship contributions dollar for dollar, thereby significantly increasing monetary aid for students.

Penn State Wilkes-Barre currently has three Trustee Scholarships thanks to the generosity of Robert and Shirley Fortinsky, David and Deborah Reese, and the Penn State Bookstore. Recipients of all campus scholarships were recently honored at a dinner at Apple Tree Terrace in Dallas.

Trustee Scholarship students are pictured, seated, from left: Michael Butler, Robert Kennedy, Megan Thorne, Amanda Boice, Eric Petrow, Evan Negroni. Standing: Todd Cosgrove, Patrick Barone, Kenneth Lasoski, and Jason Yaletsko. Absent from the photo are: Calvin McDougal, Marla Fino, and Thomas Mitchell.

Members of the Lion Ambassadors and Students for Justice collected donations on campus and also donated funds from their club’s treasuries. Donations were collected up until Veteran’s Day when a total of $750 was sent to Operation Gratitude in California. Financial aid coordinator, Kathy Pesta, organized the effort at the campus. “We wanted to help Operation Gratitude reach their goal of sending 25,000 packages between Veteran’s Day weekend and the end of December to help make the holidays a little brighter for our troops,” said Pesta. “We collected funds to help cover the shipping charges. The generosity of our campus community will help send several care packages to our men and women overseas who cannot spend the holidays at home with their families.”

On Saturday, December 18, 2004, Penn State Wilkes-Barre held a commencement ceremony for 53 graduates in the Athletics & Recreation Building’s gymnasium. The ceremony began at 10 a.m. with musical selections by the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Chorus. Christopher Borton, president of Borton-Lawson Engineering and Penn State Wilkes-Barre alumnus was the featured speaker. Valedictorian was Krissie Vensky and class speaker was Margaret Santiago.

A reception for graduates and their families, co-sponsored by the student activities fee, immediately followed the ceremony.

Students who earned diplomas are: Associate Degree in Business Administration: Toni Jackloski, Heather Lumadue, Summer Traver, John Voda; Associate in Information Sciences and Technology: John Arnone, Garry Musselman; Associate in Letters, Arts, and Sciences: Justin Gibbons, Tara Matreselva, Stephen Stasukinas; Associate in Electrical Engineering Technology: Scott Lees; Associate in Surveying Technology: Michael Kempinski; Bachelor of Arts in Administration of Justice: Kristy Corbett, Krista Slusark, Renee Zator; Bachelor of Science in Administration of Justice: Joseph Bradley, David Fisher, Timothy McDermott, Joseph McKennas, Margaret Santiago; Bachelor of Science in Business: Alison Antos, Owen Cocolin, Christopher Dalessandro, Nicholas Kovaleski, Nicole Magyar, Dawn Mortimer, Gregory Naylor, John Nicholson, Scott Sims, Erin Sokolowski, Sandra Stavetski, Krissie Vensky, Heather Wheaton, Jeremy Yakus; Bachelor of Science in Information Sciences and Technology: Shawn Bonsall, Bryan Grigalonis, Robert Hooper, Musangi Muthui, Jeremy Sawicki, Matthew Suchoski, Daniel Tucker, Eric Ziomek; Bachelor of Science in Surveying Engineering: Frankie Babyak, Michael Fenick, Robert Howett, John Koptchak, Cory Mason, John Mullen; Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology: James Evans, Brian Gallagher, Frank Sylvester, Steven Visniski, Mark Zavislak; Bachelor of Arts in Letters, Arts, and Sciences: Karen Little.

Dean’s List students are: Robert C. Ace, Dunmore; Charles J. Adzema, Forty-Fort; Robert J. Appleton, Shawanese; Thomas S. Ash, Tunkhannock; Frankie J. Babyak, Clarion; Jason L. Bator, Scranton; Frank M. Bennett, Montrose; Joanne D. Benscoter, Hunlock Creek; Marc Berneski, Kingston; Kevin G. Bilwin, Larksville; Kelly J. Blinn, Trucksville; Amanda M. Boice, Harveys Lake; Lori A. Bolesta, Plymouth; Anthony E. Bosket, Allentown; Jennifer L. Bott, Hazleton; Edmund B. Brooks, Wilkes-Barre; Bethanie H. Bueger, Hunlock Creek; Michael S. Butler, Middleport, NY; Anthony J. Capristo, Bear Creek Twp.; Ralph A. Capristo, Bear Creek Twp.; Joseph Carrasquillo, Pocono Lake; Ann Marie Cebula, Dupont; Sumei Chen, Kingston; Gregory Cherkauskas, Wilkes-Barre; Jeffrey K. Chiampi, Jenkins Twp.; Toby I. Ciprich, Montrose; Rachele M. Cole, Dallas; Kristina R. Colladay, Shavertown; Thomas R. Conti, Wilkes-Barre; Kristy L. Corbett, Gouldsboro; Christopher Coslett, Hunlock Creek; Chad M. Cropper, Montoursville; Katie L. Dale, Dallas; Paul L. Delaney, Wyoming; Jeffrey J. Dengler, Plymouth; Joseph T. Dougherty, Wilkes-Barre; Mary Dumas, Exeter; Kristen M. Durso, Nanticoke; Brian J. Edwards, Pittston; Matthew A. Empfield, Shavertown; Sterling B. English, Bear Creek; Bryan T. Erwine, Shavertown; Linda A. Evans, Exeter; William D. Evans, Tunkhannock; Ashlee E. Fagula, Dallas; Marla A. Fino, Wyoming; Michael K. Franks, Mountaintop; Kyle C. Gildea, Forty-Fort; David R. Glicini, Dallas; Eleanor J. Gosiewski, Edwardsville; Michael Gozdiskowski, Tunkhannock; Sonya A. Grebs, Mountaintop; Bradley E. Grey, Harveys Lake; Matthew R. Gushka, Kingston; Daniel E. Haddle, Dallas; Shawn H. Hamersley, Hunlock Creek; Eric M. Harwood, Nanticoke; Randall A. Hayes, Kingston; Jessica L. Hess, Shickshinny; Jason R. Hinz, Hunlock Creek; Ryan J. Honeychurch, Nanticoke; Christine A. Hudak, Sweet Valley; Megan Ide, Edwardsville; Michael T. Ipekdjian, Andover, NJ; David Kalman, Brooklyn, NY; Peter M. Kennedy, Harveys Lake; Timothy L. Kluger, Glen Lyon; Mara A. Kownigsfeld, Military; John R. Koptchak, Osceola Mills; Erin E. Kotchik, Trucksville; Amy J. Kozar, Dallas; Nicole I. Kubiak, Hanover Twp.; Jacquelyn B. Kuderka, Falls; Eric C. Kyttle, Harveys Lake; Joseph J. Lawless, Wilkes-Barre; Shawn K. Lees, Meshoppen; Ian M. Linsinbigler, Harveys Lake; Heather J. Lumadue, West Decatur; Alysia J. Malar, Jermyn; Timothy J. McDermott, Scranton; Richard F. McGavin, Tunkhannock; Carolyn McGinty, Inkerman; Lauren A. McKenna, Shohola; Jacqueline M. Misunas, Wilkes-Barre; Kaitlin S. Monick, Hanover Twp.; Gregory M. Moran, Kingston; Kenneth J. Morgan, Whitehall; Dawn M. Mortimer, Wilkes-Barre; Elise C. Mosca, Forty-Fort; John A. Mullen, Ashley; Kaitlyn R. Musto, Dallas; Lauren A. Noreika, Dallas; Jonathan T. Nutche, Shavertown; Christopher Organek, Trucksville; Daniel J. Pape, Plains; Joseph F. Pascucci, Wilkes-Barre; Autumn M. Pencek, Tunkhannock; Heather M. Perry, Dallas; Nathan M. Peterson, Harveys Lake; Gina Polidori, Plains; Bryan J. Potter, Plains; Virginia L. Raggi, Edwardsville; Daniel G. Reese, Hunlock Creek; Mary K. Rhoads, Bloomsburg; Jennifer L. Robbins, Wyoming; Justin M. Roman, Wilkes-Barre; Jeffrey P. Rothstein, Shavertown; Charles J. Ryan, Hunlock Creek; Joseph M. Sack, Hanover Twp.; Margaret L. Santiago, Hazleton; John M. Saviano, Harveys Lake; Melissa L. Saxton, Granville Summit; Matthew A. Shedletsky, Swoyersville; Laura M. Shedlock, Wilkes-Barre; Jerry P. Sitko, White Haven; Krista M. Slusark, Edwardsville; Christopher W. Snyder, Mohnton; Erin L. Sokolowski, Nanticoke; Brian C. Stempien, Sweet Valley; Maria K. Stevens, Dallas; Sara A. Stull, Forty-Fort; Bradley T. Suchoski, Wilkes-Barre; Mei Hong Tang, Kingston; Meggin L. Taylor, Shickshinny; Brian A. Thomas, Wanamie; Robert P. Thomas, Mountaintop; Julian A. Thompson, Trout Run; Derek S. Traver, Dallas; April L. Trotter, Falls; Krissie L. Vensky, Pittston; Steven J. Weber, Dallas; Melissa E. Wickizer, Wilkes-Barre; Leonard T. Yashinski, Pittston; Michelle M. Yosh, Stroudsburg; Christopher L. Zawada, Mountaintop; Robert T. Zbysheski, Pittston; Kristi Zola, Forty-Fort.

“Despite his full-time faculty responsibilities during the fall ’04 semester, Bill made significant additional contributions to the campus and community,” said Janet Rosenbaum, assistant director of continuing education. “He voluntarily developed and delivered several projects for continuing education, including: a presentation on marketing on a shoestring for an annual commerce show; a training program in the Northern Tier for people interested in tracing their family heritage; and a highly successful movie and discussion series that highlighted films with ties to Northeastern Pennsylvania.” In addition, Bachman travels to Procter & Gamble every week to teach an undergraduate course to adult students pursuing a Business Leadership Certificate Program.

Bachman earned his B.F.A. and M.A. in Communication Arts from the New York Institute of Technology. He joined the faculty at Penn State Wilkes-Barre in 1982. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Bachman also owns and operates VideoGuard Communications, an advertising agency and video production facility.