At Penn State Wilkes-Barre, more than 100 different high schools and middle schools from the tri-state area recently competed in the Northeast Regional Science Olympiad.  A grass roots organization comprised of educators and citizens, the goal of the Olympiad is to stimulate interest in science through competition. The annual event is held at the Wilkes-Barre campus, and during the competition, students are awarded medals for their outstanding efforts. 

Also, the University offers a unique program entitled TEAMS (Tests of Engineering Aptitude, Mathematics and Sciences). This challenging activity helps students prepare for tomorrow’s world–today. The TEAMS competition is a two part academic exam coordinated by JETS (Junior Engineering Testing Society) and is open to high school Junior Varsity and Varsity teams. During the event, students build their problem-solving skills and learn how to work cooperatively as a group. The competition is co-sponsored by the Pennsylvania Society of Professional Engineers, Luzerne County Chapter.

Another program is the Penn Stater for a Day initiative. Designed for both high school Juniors and Seniors who want the opportunity to experience what it's like to be a Penn State student. Those who participate have the chance to attend classes, meet the professors, and interact with other students and staff members. According to the Admissions office, this highly successful program has been in existence for more than five years. “During a recent University survey, incoming Freshmen rated this event as a deciding factor for choosing Penn State Wilkes-Barre,” said Margie Esopi, Admissions Counselor.

To learn more about these programs, please call the Admissions department at 570-675-9238, or email wbadmissions@psu.edu.

Visitors to the brand new Mount Airy Casino and Resort in the Poconos can now check out the work of William Chickillo, an award-winning artist from Fleetville, Pa. Chickillo, who was competing with a select pool of artists from Northeast Pennsylvania, was chosen by Heather Kubic-Skapyak, an interior designer with Hemmler and Camayd of Scranton. You can see his paintings inside every room on the third and fourth floors of the resort. Chickillo, who is also a Penn State Wilkes-Barre art instructor, said, “The architectural firm was looking regionally for artists to have their works displayed inside the casino. After four or five visits to my gallery, they picked out several large oil-based seasonal paintings from my portfolio.”

Chickillo’s love for art began in high school. “Between playing baseball and drawing, I was really passionate about becoming an artist, and during the seventies I was also a lifeguard at the original Mount Airy Lodge,” said Chickillo. After graduation, Chickillo took off to one of the best art schools in country, and quickly became influenced by such masters as Albert Bierstadt and George Inness. A proclaimed plein-air painter and colorist, Chickillo attended the Maryland Institute College of Art in Baltimore. His inspiration comes from American realism and traditional landscape painting. It was his contemporary American style that sealed the deal with the Pocono casino. According to Chickillo, who has over 160 prints throughout the resort, “My images and themes were a complete match with what the owners were looking for. Actually, the hardest part was trying to work around the construction crews, while trying to hang all the pictures before the casino opened.”

A long-time artist who was born and raised in Scranton, Chickillo began his teaching career in 1988. He holds an MFA degree from the Maryland Institute College of Art, and is currently an adjunct instructor at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. Outside the classroom, he owns the Skylake Gallery, which is located inside the 110-year-old former Fleetville United Methodist Church. Chickillo’s paintings have been seen throughout the country in such places as the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown and the Wildenstein Gallery in New York.

In recognition of Black History Month, Penn State Wilkes-Barre presents a one-man theatrical play entitled Incognito, starring Michael Sidney Fosberg. The one-hour, solo-production, is Fosberg’s story about growing up believing he was white, then discovering early on that he is actually black. In this often funny, deeply emotional one-man performance, he guides his audience on a journey filled with issues of race, diversity, family history, divorce, adoption, and finding a father. According to the Chicago Tribune, “His story, simply but tellingly told… will almost certainly change your attitude in the way you look at yourself, at your society, at the vicissitudes of your life and at the people who fill your days."

Fosberg’s presentation unfolds as a mystery allowing the audience to make their own discoveries about themselves and their perceptions of identity, race and stereotypes. It has been hailed by educators and critics alike as an extremely effective tool, helping audiences to open the door on discussions of race and inclusion.

During Black History Month, you can see the performance of Incognito for one night only, Tuesday, Jan. 29, at 7 p.m. in Barry Auditorium. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Student Activities Office at 570-675-9284.

Want to join the Penn State club of past fitness champions? Then get ready to compete for the title of Penn State Wilkes-Barre’s Strongest Man and Woman contest. The fifth annual fitness competition will be held on February 11-15, 2008 in the weight room located inside the Athletics and Recreation building on the Wilkes-Barre campus. All contestants will have to perform a series of strength exercises such as chin-ups, dips, and the bench press. Once the competitors have finished all the events, the male and female winners will be determined by the greatest combined number of repetitions from all three exercises.

To be eligible to compete in the Strongest Man and Women contest you must be a Penn State Wilkes-Barre student, faculty, staff, family, or community member. Prizes will be awarded during the competition to the first and second-place winners.

To learn more about the fitness contest, please contact Dr. Thomas Winter at 570.675.9278.

Growth continues on the Wilkes-Barre campus as construction has been completed on the new Abram Nesbitt, III Academic Commons. The $8 million dollar environmentally responsible building opened to students at Penn State Wilkes-Barre for the start of the 2008 academic semester. Located at the heart of the campus, the state-of-the-art facility has a sustainable design, which means the building is made up of recycled and energy efficient products. This one-of-a-kind structure is the only building in the Penn State regional area that’s Leeds certified.

The new 21,000 square foot Academic Commons will house the Nesbitt Library, Barry Auditorium, the Friedman Art Gallery, the Reese cyber café, and four technologically smart class-rooms. Nesbitt Academic Commons will also serve as a destination stop for many cultural and educational activities. Bohlin Cywinski Jackson of Wilkes-Barre was the architectural firm responsible for the design of the building, and Lobar Incorporated was chosen as the general contractor. 

A dedication ceremony featuring Graham B. Spanier, President of the Pennsylvania State University, and Charles H. Davis, Chancellor of Penn State Wilkes-Barre is scheduled for Thursday March 27, 2008 at 11:00 a.m.

For more information, contact Mark Gregorio, Penn State Wilkes-Barre, Public Information Coordinator at 570.675.9269.

The forum entitled Keeping Pace with Marketing in the Digital Age is ideally suited for senior level managers from companies and non-profit organizations who want to learn more about e-marketing techniques, and how e-marketing impacts the success of their businesses and the global market. With today’s on-line industry growing at such a rapid pace, the program is designed to help businesses understand the importance of e-marketing, and how this platform works within their marketing mix.

Special keynote speaker for the event will be Cathy Von Birgelen, a Strategic Marketing Consultant and Program Manager from Penn State Erie’s Knowledge Park. An interactive pioneer with over fifteen years of hands-on marketing experience, Von Birgelen will showcase her tech experience and knowledge of sales and marketing, publishing, and multimedia production to business professionals who attend the seminar. In addition to her business development background, Von Birgelen has consulted many national companies like General Electric and Choice Hotels. She is also the past president of the Erie Advertising Club, and current member of the Athena Powerlink for Women Owned Businesses. Other guest panelists scheduled to attend the program are Kristopher B. Jones, President and CEO of Pepperjam, Inc. Jack Kiefer, President and CEO of BabyAge.com, Inc., and Christopher J. Haran, CEO of The Great Valley Technology Alliance. 

To learn more about Penn State Wilkes-Barre’s Executive Management Series, contact Ina Lubin, Director of Continuing Education at 675-9251 or ikL1@psu.edu.

To take advantage of this free and fun event, local students are encouraged to visit the web site at http://www.wb.psu.edu/. Each person that participates will then have the opportunity to experience what it's like to be a Penn State student. Plus, everyone that spends the day on campus will have the chance to attend classes, meet the professors, have lunch in the cafeteria, and interact with other students and staff members.

According to the Admissions office, this highly successful program has been in existence for more than five years. “During a recent University survey, incoming freshmen rated this event as a deciding factor for choosing Penn State Wilkes-Barre,” said Margie Esopi, Admissions Counselor. The Penn Stater for a Day experience is designed to function as a unique recruitment tool to attract new students to the Wilkes-Barre campus. 

To learn more and sign-up, please call the Admissions department at 570.675.9238, or register on-line at http://www.wb.psu.edu/ and click “Come Visit Us.”

Continuing Education is also offering a comprehensive workshop for professionals and support staff members who want to make the transition from Microsoft Office 2003 to Office 2007. The three-hour hands-on workshop is designed for the experienced 2003 Microsoft Office user who is looking to update and sharpen their Office 2007 skills.

For registration information, contact the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Continuing Education department at 570-675-9219 or visit them at www.wb.psu.edu/ce.

Division B (Middle School) top 5 teams go on to state competition.

1. Wyoming Area Middle School
2. Stroudsburg Middle School
3. Greater Nanticoke Area Educational Center
4. JT Lambert Intermediate School
5. Harlan Rowe Junior High School

Division C (High School) top 7 teams go on to state competition.

1. Athens Area High School
2. Wyoming Area High School
3. Stroudsburg High School
4. Lehighton Area High School
5. Wallenpaupack Area High School
6. Hazelton Area High School
7. Dallas High School

On Thursday March 27th Graham B. Spanier, President of the Pennsylvania State University, will be in Luzerne County for the dedication of the new Abram Nesbitt, III Academic Commons. As part of the dedication program, the University will welcome Spanier to the Wilkes-Barre campus starting at 11:00 a.m.

Despite facing some major obstacles, Shawnee Acker, an Administration of Justice student, is having the time of her life at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. Acker has been selected to receive the 2008 Penn State Wilkes-Barre Outstanding Adult Learner Award. This is quite an achievement for someone who, less than three years ago, was involved in a life-threatening car accident that left her confined to a wheelchair.

While in the hospital, Acker had to re-learn how to walk. During her rehabilitation period, she made the decision to begin taking on-line courses at Penn State University. It was after she was discharged from the hospital that Acker became a full-time student at the Wilkes-Barre campus.

Not only does she excel in the classroom by maintaining a 3.0 GPA, Acker also serves as a volunteer at the Soup Kitchen in Scranton and at Saint Mary’s Villa Nursing Home. She is also the president of the Local Environmental Revolution Club and a member of the Honor Society.

Currently working as an intern at the United States Probation Office for the Middle States of Pennsylvania, Acker is in the process of completing her Administration of Justice degree from Penn State Wilkes-Barre.

Setting high standards and attaining her goals has always been a top priority for Jill Chocallo, an elementary education major from Lehman, Pa. Chocallo can now add the prestigious John Egli Outstanding Scholar-Athlete Award to her list of accomplishments. The Penn State Wilkes-Barre sophomore is a Pennsylvania State University Athletic Conference (PSUAC) Academic All-Conference player, as well as the captain and most valuable player of the 2007-08 women’s basketball team. She is also a member of the Lady Lions volleyball squad.

While playing two varsity sports and maintaining a 3.3 GPA, the scholar-athlete winner says that, “Being the captain of the first Penn State Wilkes-Barre Women’s basketball team has allowed me to demonstrate my many leadership qualities. I’m emotionally moved that my teammates have had the confidence in me to lead this team.”

Not only is Chocallo busy attending classes at the Wilkes-Barre campus, she also has dedicated her time to the local community by organizing a food drive, an event which collected over 5,000 pounds of non-perishable food items for the Luzerne County Head Start program. Since coming to Penn State Wilkes-Barre, Chocallo has served as a volunteer at several different elementary schools and high schools, an experience that will help her achieve her dream of becoming a teacher. Currently Chocallo is in the process of completing her Education degree; she will attend University Park in the fall.

The John Egli Award, established in 1982, honors John’s long-standing dedication and devotion to Penn State University. Egli was responsible for the development of the high-quality athletic programs currently offered throughout the Penn State satellite system. The award recognizes male and female students who have had a distinguished career in the PSUAC, who have been active in co-curricular activities, and who exemplify outstanding leadership qualities.

For more information, contact Mark Gregorio, Public Information Coordinator at 570.675.9269.

Penn State Wilkes-Barre’s Continuing Education department is offering a series of workshops addressing the educational needs of long-term care professionals. Upcoming is “Medicare, Medicaid, and Medical Assistance in Pennsylvania,” which is being offered on Wednesday, May 9, from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Mountain View Care Center in Scranton. The event includes a breakfast and the opportunity to network with other long-term care providers. The event is free for Northeastern Pennsylvania Long Term Care Association members and $50.00 per workshop for non-members. During the program, participants will be updated on the latest news related to government reimbursement programs for long-term care facilities. Those who attend will also gain a basic understanding of the Medicare and Medicaid process as well as obtain information regarding changes affecting eligibility, benefits, and payments. Special guest presenter will be Attorney Daniel K. Natirboff of Capozzi and Associates, P.C.

Nursing home professionals who participate in the seminars will also have the convenience of staying close to home to complete their state requirements for re-certification. “Nursing home administrators are required every two years to earn a certain number of credits to keep their certification. By providing these workshops locally, administrators will not have to leave the area to receive this type of quality programming,” said Ina Lubin, continuing education director at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. 

For registration information contact the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Continuing Education department at 570-675-9219 or visit them at www.wb.psu.edu/ce.

Ever wish you had the chance to blast off on an exciting mission into space, or challenge your skills in soccer with top-notch coaches and players? Starting June 16 through July 25, children who are in kindergarten, middle school, and high school can have fun in a variety of academic enrichment and sports camps at Penn State Wilkes-Barre.

With over thirty different activities to choose from, the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Summer Youth Program boasts an impressive twenty-year history of providing affordable and exciting summer camps for kids in Northeastern Pennsylvania. The camps are designed to engage young children and teens of all grade levels to become physically active and creative. “It’s a great way to experience art, nature, and science. Plus, if you’re looking for high-quality sports camps, our expert Penn State coaching staff will guide your child through the fundamentals of basketball, volleyball, soccer, and golf. Most of all, kids are having fun and making new friends,” said Ellen Gregorio, continuing education representative at the Wilkes-Barre campus.

According to Gregorio, “Our Summer Youth Program has highly trained instructors who have significant amounts of experience in their field. Each staff member has to be approved by Penn State through the University College.”

For registration information contact the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Continuing Education department at 570-675-9219 or visit them at www.wb.psu.edu/ce.

Before becoming the Penn State Lady Lions head coach in April of 2007, Washington spent eight seasons as an assistant coach for Notre Dame, including the last two as the associate head coach. During Washington’s eight seasons on the bench, the Fighting Irish amassed a 188-69 record with eight NCAA Tournament appearances, including four Sweet Sixteen runs and a National Championship in 2001. One of the top recruiters in the country, Washington was instrumental in helping Notre Dame secure eight consecutive Top 25 recruiting classes. This, according to Blue Star Index, was a feat accomplished only by two other women’s college basketball programs in the country.

While competing at the professional level, Washington had a successful six-year career in the Women’s National Basketball Association, playing for the New York Liberty, Houston Comets and Indiana Fever. She played an important role in leading the Comets to the WNBA title in 2000. More recently, Coquese Washington was honored as the 2008 “Rising Star” by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association.

In 1992, Washington graduated a full year ahead of schedule from the University of Notre Dame with a bachelor of arts degree in History. Then in 1997, she obtained her juris doctorate from the University of Notre Dame Law School.

A native of Flint, Michigan, Washington resides in Port Matilda, Pennsylvania with her husband, Raynell Brown, and their three-year-old son Quenton.

The Nittany Woodlands is your home away from home at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. A privately owned apartment complex adjacent to the campus, the Nittany Woodlands has rooms available for students who are enrolled in the fall 2008 semester. The housing complex is situated on ten acres of natural woodlands and is designed for the comfort, safety, and convenience of students. With a walkway and roadway connecting directly to campus, students are within minutes of classes and all activities. During this summer, the apartments will be completely refurbished and will include new flooring, appliances and furniture. Rental prices for these units will not increase during the 2008-2009 academic year.

For more information, call the Nittany Woodlands at 570-675-6398.

For registration information, contact Ina Lubin at the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Continuing Education department at 570-675-9253 or Sally McGuire at the Hazleton campus at 570-450-3110.

Admissions:

Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Bookstore:

Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Nesbitt Library:

Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Finance Office:

Wednesday and Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Registrar:

Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

For more information contact the Public Information office at 570-675-9269 or visit www.wb.psu.edu.

Local automobile dealer Ken Pollock Chevrolet sponsored one of the many contests offered throughout the day by supplying the grand prize; a 2009 Chevy Impala to a golfer lucky enough to get a hole-in-one during the tournament.

With outstanding course and weather conditions, the Johnson Control, Inc. foursome of Mike Moran, Bob Razvillas, Ray Kovaleski and Jason Moore combined to shoot a low round of 59 to win a share of the 18-hole Masters event. The other group, led by Ray Ostroski and Brian Bobeck, captured part of the title with the same score. Each winning golfer received a Penn State Wilkes-Barre navy blazer complete with 24k gold-plated Penn State buttons. 

Constantly recognizing the need for on-going scholarship support for Penn State Wilkes-Barre, the Alumni Constituent Society is just one of the many generous donors who continue to support the Wilkes-Barre campus and northeastern Pennsylvania.

Former Penn State student Amanda Ahmad, and now director of talent development for Spike TV and TV Land will be the featured guest speaker during the sixty-minute presentation. Ahmad, will break down information about jobs in the entertainment field and discuss how earning a Penn State degree helped her prepare for an exciting career with Spike TV and TV Land.

The first ever Alumni Career Speaker Series is an initiative developed by Kathy Flanagan-Herstek, student services director, and Tina Rose, a career counselor at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. The program offers a way for current students at the Wilkes-Barre campus to connect with successful Penn State alumni throughout the country. Free food and drinks will be served after the event.

For more information contact Stephanie Andaloro at 570-675-9279 or visit www.wb.psu.edu.

The course is designed for new professionals who wish to keep their supervisory skills up to date, and at the same time be one step ahead of the demands from the workplace. Students who enroll in the class will gain valuable insight on the latest communication and leadership techniques, as well as information on employee relations. The four-week session will cover topics like: Supervisory Roles and Responsibilities, Performance Management, and Managing Time and Priorities. This program is unique, because it provides students with the tools necessary to become effective supervisors. 

Sign-up cost for the program is $645.00 with a discount available for multiple students who enroll from the same company. Classes will be held at the Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance building located in Pittston.

For information or to register for classes contact Janet Rosenbaum, Assistant Director Continuing Education, at 675-9102 or jqr8@psu.edu.

Sodoski, who is employed by the Riverside School District, is an expert in the field of science and technology. With nearly sixteen years of camp experience, Sodoski has provided high-quality science and technology programs at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. Meanwhile, Sprankel’s resume is just as impressive. A teacher at Wyoming Seminary lower school, Sprankel brings her eighteen years of service, knowledge and passion of animal care to the summer program.

For information contact the Continuing Education department at 570-675-9219 or visit them at www.wb.psu.edu/ce.

While attending the open house, students can get information on the 160 degree programs offered by Penn State. In addition, prospective students will learn about the eight bachelors and six associate degree programs available at the Wilkes-Barre campus.

With convenient class schedules, affordable tuition, outstanding faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, Penn State Wilkes-Barre provides the resources of a large research university in a small college setting. Immediately following the information sessions, the Admissions office will offer a complimentary lunch in the Café Commons.

To register on-line visit http://www.wb.psu.edu/ or contact the Admissions office at 675-9238.

Penn Staters and the local community are encouraged to help raise money for breast cancer research by purchasing tickets to this athletic event. Cost is $1.00 per person or $5.00 for eight tickets.

Head coach Regan Palfey, whose mother was a breast cancer survivor says that, “As part of the festivities, the volleyball team will be raffling off Penn State football tickets, as well as gift cards and baskets.” The team will also conduct a bake sale, and have t-shirts and bracelets available at the game. According to Palfey, “All proceeds from the event will go to benefit breast cancer research.”

To purchase tickets for the event call the Athletic office at 675-9262 or e-mail Regan Palfey at rpalf19@hotmail.com.

To take advantage of this free and fun event, local students are encouraged to visit the Penn State Wilkes-Barre web site at http://www.wb.psu.edu/. All participants that spend the day on campus will have the chance to attend classes, meet professors, have lunch in the cafeteria, and interact with other students and staff members.

According to the Admissions office, this highly successful event has been in existence for more than five years. During a recent University survey, first-year students rated this event as a deciding factor for choosing Penn State Wilkes-Barre.

To learn more call the Admissions office at 675-9238 or register on-line at http://www.wb.psu.edu/.

Last year, students received awards and scholarships totaling more than $200,000 from Penn State Wilkes-Barre. The scholarship dinner recognizes students, who have demonstrated academic excellence and service to their community.

Originally developed by a former student government association president, the fundraiser supports THON and the 4 Diamonds Fund at the Hershey Medical Center. All the proceeds from each night go to the 4 Diamonds Fund to help fight childhood cancer with superior care, comprehensive support, and innovative research.

The fun-filled Halloween-inspired activity is coordinated by Penn State Wilkes-Barre students, staff, faculty and volunteers. Over a two-week period, members of the planning committee will spend hundreds of hours preparing to make the event more popular than last year.

The five-night attraction is open to the public and will be held on Thursday and Friday Oct. 17 and 18, and then again from Oct. 23-25. Tours start at 7:00 p.m.; with the last one leaving at 10:40 p.m. Admission is $7.00 for kids 13 and over. Children under 12 pay $6.00. A group discount is available for 10 or more people. 

For information contact Jackie Warnick-Piatt in the student activities office at 675-9284 or visit http://www.events.psu.edu/.

During the two shows, LittleBear will entertain audience members with a variety of dance routines aimed at showcasing the differences in music and culture of the many indigenous nations that reside throughout the United States. “My performance is both traditional and contemporary, showing styles of Native American heritage along with historical lessons, said LittleBear.” He will also lead a group discussion on ancient legends and philosophies that vividly illustrate the spirit of First Nation culture.

For information contact JackieWarnick-Piatt at 675-9284 or go to http://www.events.psu.edu/.

After competing in their first United States Collegiate Athletic Conference event (USCAA), the Penn State Wilkes-Barre men's golf team finished as a runner-up in the USCAA National Invitation Tournament held on the Blue Course at University Park. The six-member team completed their round with a final score of 325. Penn College claimed the title with a score of 305.

The team was led by USCAA All-American junior Mike Haley of Kingston, who was also a runner-up medalist, and the only golfer to shoot under par during the three-day tournament. He was followed by freshmen teammates Steve Sabol of Dallas (10^th place) and Zach Aciukewicz of Trucksville (17^th place).

During the 2008 season, the golf team also captured the Penn State University Athletic Conference (PSUAC) Eastern Conference championship, and several members were honored with post-season awards. Two players, Steve Sabol and Zach Aciukewicz were named to the PSUAC All-Tournament team.

With a rich history dating back to 1966, the USCAA is a national organization that exists to provide quality athletic competition on a regional and national level for smaller institutions of higher learning and their student-athletes.

For information contact Jack Monick, athletic director, at 675-9262 or e-mail Monick at jxm15.psu.edu.  

After 25 years of service to Penn State Wilkes-Barre, Ina Lubin, continuing education director, has retired from the University. “It has been an honor for me to work for Penn State. I have always taken my role very seriously and as a representative of an internationally known university, I’ve always tried to put forth my best efforts to represent it well,” said Lubin. “From the time I was a young girl, I wanted to teach, to help others experience the excitement of learning. As a school teacher in Philadelphia, my dream of educating young children to read, write, calculate, and think came to life.”

Lubin began her career with Penn State in 1983, and through 2008 handled various leadership roles and administrative responsibilities related to continuing education. She has served in her current role as the regional director for continuing education since 1992; leading a department responsible for the recruitment and retention of adult students, the development of educational programs for organizations, and educational activities for professional groups. A career highlight came in 1991, when she developed a successful off-campus computer training curriculum for nearly 3,000 Proctor and Gamble employees. Lubin says, “My job in continuing education has given me the opportunity to use the power of education to transform lives. Helping others to grow and develop has given my professional life great meaning. Even as I move on, I suspect whatever new opportunities come my way, I’ll be attracted to those that allow me to engage in the education of others.”

As a former president of the Visiting Nurses Association, Lubin has served on many boards of directors including: The United Way, Leadership Wilkes-Barre and the Jewish Family Service organization. She has also been recognized for her commitment to community service. In 1995, she received the Penn State Wilkes-Barre Hayfield Award for Outstanding Community Service and then two-years later, she was honored by the Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Commerce with the prestigious Athena Award. “All of the awards could not surpass my biggest achievement of raising three children and balancing life and work,” said Lubin.  

Lubin, who is a long time resident of Kingston, earned a bachelor of arts degree in education from Michigan State and a master’s degree in public administration from Marywood University. Post-retirement plans include education-related consulting, human service agency volunteer work, and spending more time with her four grandchildren.

Dr. William Anzalone, Jr., who is a leading expert in the field of forensic psychology, will be the featured guest speaker during the sixty-minute presentation. Anzalone, will discuss his career, as well as provide insight to the exciting world of forensic psychology. During the lecture, Penn Staters will have the opportunity to explore and ask questions about career opportunities in the exciting field of forensics.

The Alumni Career Speaker Series is an initiative developed by Kathy Flanagan-Herstek, student services director, and Tina Rose, a career counselor at Penn State Wilkes-Barre. The program offers a way for current students at the Wilkes-Barre campus to connect with successful Penn State alumni throughout the country. The event is free and open to the public. Complimentary food and drinks will be served after the event.

For information and to RSVP contact Stephanie Andaloro at 675-9279 or visit www.wb.psu.edu.

According to the Department of Agricultural and Extension Education at Penn State, today’s young voters, who are usually viewed as those between the ages of 18 and 25, sometimes up to age 30, are seen historically as eligible voters who vote in lower numbers than their elders. With the use of technology, younger generations could make a huge impact on this particular election. Participants can find out how much their vote counts, as Murphy will encourage dialogue among students and discuss the importance of voting.

For information contact Jackie Warnick-Piatt at 675-9284 or e-mail Piatt at jackiewp@psu.edu.

For information contact the Public Information Office at 675-9269 or e-mail Mark Gregorio at mjg33@psu.edu.

Penn State Wilkes-Barre is hosting an informational session on Tuesday, Nov. 18, starting at 6:30 p.m. in Barry Auditorium. The program is designed to help high school students and their families learn more about the University. Students can find out about scholarship opportunities, financial aid, academic programs, athletics, and student activities. During the evening, admissions counselors will be available to help students weigh their academic strengths and explore their degree options.

While attending the info session, guests can receive information on the 160 degree programs offered by Penn State. In addition, prospective students will learn about the eight bachelors and six associate degree programs available at the Wilkes-Barre campus.

With convenient class schedules, affordable tuition, outstanding faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities, Penn State Wilkes-Barre provides the resources of a large research university in a small college setting. The event is open to the public and complimentary refreshments will be served.

To register visit www.wb.psu.edu/Admissions/admevents.htm or contact the Admissions office at 675-9238.

Dr. Christyne Berzsenyi, associate professor of English at Penn State Wilkes-Barre has been awarded a one-year, $1,000 grant from Wal-Mart for the regional competition for National History Day. The funding will be used to help pay for student awards and other expenses related to the event.

Maureen Mulligan, community involvement coordinator for Wal-Mart, approved the grant and said, “Wal-Mart has always reached-out to neighbors in the community and has been known to help those who need support in many different ways. Based on need, Wal-Mart awards over 20 grants per year, ranging from $1,000 to $5,000. All the money gets distributed to valid non-profit groups.” The community coordinator stated she enjoys helping organizations that are truly in need. “There are a lot groups out there, and it’s great that Wal-Mart can help people who need it the most.”

National History Day is a highly regarded academic organization for elementary and secondary school students. Each year participants from northeastern Pennsylvania choose historical topics related to a theme and conduct extensive primary and secondary research through libraries, archives, museums, oral history interviews and historic sites. Students then present their work in original papers, websites, exhibits, performances and documentaries.

Berzsenyi, who is the campus coordinator for Regional History Day said, “Hosting the regional competition is a wonderful opportunity for Penn State Wilkes-Barre to share our educational expertise and resources, as well as our facilities with bright and motivated local students, devoted teachers, and our active community of history enthusiasts.” The regional event will be held at Penn State Wilkes-Barre on Saturday, March 28, from 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The top three finishers from each region advance to the Pennsylvania State competition, and then winners at the state level compete in National History Day at the University of Maryland in June.

For information, contact Christine Berzsenyi at 675-9275 or e-mail Berzsenyi at cab39@psu.edu. 

Penn State Wilkes-Barre recently unveiled its new Digital Commons studio to students, faculty and staff. Through the use of modern technology and software, Penn Staters now have the ability to create multimedia projects in a state-of-the-art digital production facility. With an estimated price tag of $10,000, the Digital Commons is a one-of-a-kind production suite, consisting of a recording studio and an editing room.

With the explosion of user-created content environments like YouTube and Google Video, the Digital Commons brings together a wide range of resources, which helps students learn about digital media, including editing audio and video projects, podcasts, movies, slideshows and media conversion. The digital studio is designed to enrich the lives of students by creating digital content for their coursework.

A university-wide initiative developed by Penn State's Information Technology Services, the Digital Commons provides all Penn State campuses with a common set of tools like high-end Macintosh computer workstations, professional audio and video equipment, and editing software such as Final Cut Pro and Audacity. “Students who take advantage of the resources offered in the Digital Commons are gaining valuable skills that will transfer over to careers like web design, movies and special effects, multimedia development and television production, ” said Susan Hales, an instructional design specialist at Penn State Wilkes-Barre.

Members of the Wilkes-Barre campus can begin using the service by visiting www.carpoolworld.com/psuwb. Signing up is simple, and once a person enters their trip details into the system, carpoolworld.com goes to work by matching potential commuters with other travelers that have similar transportation needs. After a match has been made, registered users then contact each other by phone or e-mail.

Another green initiative on campus is the twenty year-old recycling program. Recently, students, faculty and staff collected over 14,500 pounds of products ranging from paper and plastic goods; to glass and aluminum cans. In 2003, the program earned an award from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection for the greatest pounds of recycling per student, first among colleges in northeastern Pennsylvania. “What pleases me about the program is how long it has continued, and that it’s a comprehensive program involving the entire campus, recycling both the common items such as paper and bottles, but also unusual items such as Styrofoam and discarded catalogs. We find a home for discarded books and many other reusable items,” said Thomas Winter, physics professor and head of the recycling program at Penn State Wilkes-Barre.

For more information contact Mark Gregorio, public information coordinator at 675-9269 or visit http://www.wb.psu.edu/.

Recently northeastern Pennsylvania area residents received an early dose of winter weather. Forecasters at AccuWeather are saying that the weather outlook compared to last year calls for an overall colder and snowier winter.

Poor weather conditions cause events to be cancelled and classes to be delayed. Sign up for PSUTXT and have messages sent directly to your cell phone. If an emergency situation arises or if bad weather strikes the area, you will always be informed with PSUTXT.

A campus-specific text messaging notification service, PSUTXT is available to members of the Wilkes-Barre campus who wish to subscribe. Emergency notices including weather alerts, campus closings, etc. will be sent directly to subscriber's cell phones. Only messages of an important nature will be sent. This text messaging service will not be used for routine news items.

While individuals' phone plans may charge for receipt of text messages, subscription to the PSUTXT service is free. Subscribers also can choose University Park concert information including Bryce Jordan Center concert announcements and other entertainment news or University Park sports alerts. To sign up, visit http://newswires.psu.edu/ online and follow the instructions at the bottom of the page under the PSUTXT heading.

Penn State Wilkes-Barre recently held its annual scholarship dinner to pay special tribute to donors for their generous support and to recognize scholarship recipients for their accomplishments. On Thursday, Oct. 16, the development office played host to over 100 students and donors at the yearly event held at The Appletree Terrace in Dallas. The program honors undergraduates for their extraordinary academic achievement and community service.

Last year, students received awards and scholarships totaling more than $200,000 from Penn State Wilkes-Barre. The scholarship dinner continues to recognize students from the Wilkes-Barre campus, who have demonstrated academic excellence and service to their community.

A memorial service for Kate Brennan, a former Penn State Wilkes-Barre senior instructor of English, has been set for Monday, Dec. 1, at Bierly Auditorium in the Science Center. The service will begin at 7:00 p.m., with a candlelight ceremony to follow. After the vigil, a reception will be held inside Hayfield House.

Brennan, who died suddenly on Oct. 17, began her Penn State teaching career in 1986, and for 22 years her dedication to the University inspired many colleagues and students. Whether it was teaching seventh-grade children or lecturing undergraduates, Brennan’s passion to educate others led to the implementation of programs that would impact the needs of many students. Friends and family remember Brennan as someone who had an empathetic and passionate personality, as well as a person who exhibited a free spirit for life.

A long-time resident of Dallas, Brennan earned a bachelor of arts degree in English from Misericordia University and a master’s degree in the same discipline from the University of Scranton. She is also a 1971 graduate of Dallas High School.

For information and to RSVP contact Stephanie Andaloro at 675-9279 or e-mail Andaloro at sja11@psu.edu.

At the Wilkes-Barre campus, sophomores Courtney Senghaas from Nuangola, Bryan McLaughlin of Dallas, and senior Melissa Gunshannon from Kingston are helping the community in ways that will leave a lasting impression. The THON volunteers have been coordinating year-round fundraising activities to benefit the 46-hour dance marathon. In a statement from the planning committee, Gunshannon says, “The success of THON is only possible because of the enormous commitment made by the entire Penn State community. Last year, Penn State Wilkes-Barre donated over $12,000.00 and this year we’re hoping to raise even more.” All the proceeds go to the Four Diamonds Fund at the Hershey Medical Center to help fight childhood cancer.

THON is scheduled for Feb. 20-22, 2009 at the Bryce Jordan Center in State College. Several hundred dancers and thousands of supporters will come together for what has become one of Penn State's greatest and most unifying traditions.

For THON information contact the Student Activities office at 675-9284 or e-mail Jackie Warnick-Piatt at jxw64@psu.edu.

Through an exclusive Penn State assessment program known as DISCOVER, career counselors Geraldine Wall and Tina Rose assist students in identifying their strengths and interests and connect them with several career options. Career Services also offers internship opportunities and job placement for students seeking full and part-time employment. With business, engineering, and technical majors being the most in demand, the career services department boasts a 100 percent job placement rate for students who graduate with a Surveying Technology degree from Penn State Wilkes-Barre.

As students progress through the steps of their job-search process, Career Services offers many educational activities and resources to help ensure that students are making informed choices, including: Resume writing workshops, mock interviews, career fairs, a career library of informational materials, and a job web site known as Nittany Lion Recruiting. “Taking advantage of the available resources is part of the process; however networking is important. Students, who take the time to network with employers, stand a better chance of getting a job versus those who just flood the market with their resumes,” said Geraldine Wall, career services coordinator at Penn State Wilkes-Barre.

For information contact Geraldine Wall at 675-9124 or e-mail Wall at ggw10@psu.edu.