Quantcast
Channel: Penn State New Kensington Campus News
Viewing all 1342 articles
Browse latest View live

Admissions open house Nov. 13 geared to veterans and adult learners

$
0
0

 

NON-TRADITIONAL STUDENTS RETURNING FROM OVERSEAS DUTY OR
SEEKING A CAREER CHANGE
Information Session Helps Navigate the Challenges of Higher Education
6:30 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 13, Conference Center

The number of veterans deciding to start or return to college continues to rise as the Iraq and Afghanistan wars wind down and more military personnel fulfill their service obligations and return to civilian status. The ranks of adult learners, those classified as at least 24 years old, are also expanding as more displaced workers look for a career change or seek additional education.

To help nontraditional students navigate the many challenges associated with the higher education decision, an information session is set for 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 13, in the Conference Center at Penn State New Kensington. The Veterans/Adult Learners Open House provides prospective nontraditional students with information on the various certificate, associate, and baccalaureate degrees offered at the campus. The sessions include tips on how to finance a Penn State education.

There are numerous academic options available to veterans and adults, including: selecting from more than 200 noncredit, certificate and degree programs; choosing full- or part-time status; and scheduling day or evening classes. The enrollment management staff at the campus will be on-hand to assist prospective students with application forms. The $50 application fee will be waived during the open house.

Veterans and adult learners, who comprise approximately 31 percent of the Penn State New Kensington student population, have their own space on the campus at the Adult Learner Resource Center and Lounge, which is open from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week. The lounge includes a small library of resource books, coffee maker, refrigerator, microwave, a computer and printer, white board, table and chairs for small group study and comfortable chairs for relaxation. Penn State New Kensington strives to support these students in reaching their academic goals while maintaining a healthy life balance.

The catalyst for veterans matriculating at the campus is the Post-9/11 GI-Bill that provides financial support for education and housing. Under the bill's Yellow Ribbon program, veterans who served on active duty since Sept. 11, 2001, are entitled to educational benefits through the Veterans Administration.

For more information or to reserve a spot at the open house, call 724-334-LION or 888-968-PAWS.


Turkey Trot 5K benefits Cystic Fibrosis; community event

$
0
0
Turkey Trot 5K
The Turket Trot 5K gets underway for more than 100 campus and community thinclads.

 

PRE-THANKSGIVING FIXTURE SINCE 1980
10:00 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 17, Athletics Center Parking Lot
Classic 3.1 Mile Run and One-Mile Family Fun Run/Walk

Leaves are falling, temperatures are dropping, and runners are training as Penn State New Kensington’s 33rd annual Turkey Trot 5K is set for 10:00 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 17, starting in front of the campus’ Athletics Center.

A pre-Thanksgiving fixture at the campus since 1980, the race has grown into a 5K, one of the classic distances of running events. Open to the public, the 3.1–mile course meanders through the campus and Upper Burrell Township. There also is a one-mile family fun run/walk that starts at 10:15 a.m.

"I think it is important to continue a tradition for students and their families and friends," said Pepsi Umberger, race coordinator and instructor in kinesiology at the campus. "Our goal is to sponsor a fun, family-friendly race to promote health and wellness in the community."

The 5K course begins at the Athletics Center, crosses the upper parking lot and heads down Myers Drive to the turnaround point. Participants backtracked to the finish line at the Athletics Center.

The entry fee is $15 for college and high school students with ID; $20 for campus faculty and staff; and $25 for local residents. A special family fee of $25 allows four family members to participate in the distances of their choosing. Frozen turkeys will be awarded to the winners of each of the four age categories: 18-24; 25-32; 33-44; 45-and over. All registrants receive a "Turkey Trot" T-shirt and a goodies bag.

All proceeds benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Western Pennsylvania Chapter. Cystic fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States. A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs, leads to life-threatening lung infections, obstructs the pancreas, and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food.

In the 1950s, few children with cystic fibrosis lived to attend elementary school. Today, advances in research and medical treatments have further enhanced and extended life for children and adults with CF. Many people with the disease can now expect to live into their 30s, 40s and beyond.

"It is a great time of year to reach out and get people involved in a great cause," Umberger said. "The race provides fun for the campus and community, while benefiting people who are impacted by Cystic Fibrosis."

Last year, 100 runners took up the challenge, and the race raised more than $2,000 for the family of Patrolman Derek Kotecki, the Lower Burrell police officer who was slain in 2011 in the line of duty

For more information, call or email Umberger at 724-334-6747 or plh20@psu.edu.

Countries of focus celebration features Irish and Scottish music and dancing

$
0
0
Road to the Isles
Road to the Isles performs at the campus on Nov. 7

 

ROAD TO THE ISLES PERFORMS
FOLKSONG TRADITIONS OF TWO ANCIENT CULTURES
Noon, Wednesday, Nov. 7, Forum Theatre
Free to the Public

Penn State New Kensington continues its “Countries of Focus: Ireland and Great Britain” at noon, Wednesday, Nov. 7, with a performance by Road to the Isles in the Forum Theatre.

The ensemble of musicians and dancers draws from their wealth of experiences to perform the instrumental music, dance, and folksong traditions of Ireland and Scotland. The show includes the sword dance, highland fling, sean triubhas, Irish reel and jig, slip jig, and hornpipe, complemented by songs, stories, and instrumental solos, duets, and trios. Based in Pittsburgh, the group portrays a view of the similarities and differences between the music and dance traditions of the two ancient cultures. The show is free to the public.

The musicians include George Balderose, highland pipes and smallpipes; Oliver Browne: Irish fiddle; Melinda Crawford: Scottish fiddle; and Richard Hughes: great flute, guitar, and vocals. The dancers are Becky Craig, Scottish dance, and Cliodhna Graven, Irish dance. Craig and Graven represent two different traditions of dancing, and each has successfully competed at Irish Feis and Highland Games throughout Northeast United States.

The Countries of Focus program is a year-long, campus celebration of international cultures. For the past six years, the campus has embarked on the promotion of greater awareness and understanding of world issues, international trends and global policy debates. Each year, the campus adopts a country or region of the world to inspire teaching and scholarship. Students, faculty and staff explore and reflect on various aspects of Ireland's and Great Britain's history, culture and economic, social and political reality.

During the 2013 spring break, the campus is sponsoring a weeklong trip to Ireland.  The itinerary, from March 2 to 9, features visits to the cities of Dublin, Killarney, Cork, and Kilkenney in the Republic of Ireland, and Belfast in Northern Ireland.

“The trip to Ireland is a great opportunity for students who have not traveled internationally before,” said Amy Rustic, reference librarian at the campus’ Blissell Library and a member of the International Trip Committee. “The trip will include many interesting stops and will be a great introduction to the culture of Ireland.”

Since 2004, more than 130 campus students have traveled to Spain, France, Italy, China, Greece, Peru and the Galapagos Islands. In conjunction with the trips, students are required to take a related course that enriches their understanding of the destination and its culture. Upon return, participants present their experiences through narratives and slideshows to the entire campus community. These presentations both enable others to share in the immediate travel experience and help to generate excitement in students, as well as faculty and staff, to become involved in future trips.

For more information on the Ireland trip, contact Abhinav Aima, aka11@psu.edu or Gary Heberling, glh10@psu.edu via email.

For more on the country of focus program, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/InternationalPrograms/43845.htm online.

For more on Road to the Isles, visit http://roadtotheisles.org/ online.

Food drive with alumni society's TV football party; 3:30 p.m. kickoff Saturday

$
0
0
TV Football party
Hours before kickoff, Alle-Kiski Society board members turn the Elks Club into a Penn State tailgate party.

 

NON-PERISHABLE ITEMS COLLECTED AT DOOR

NITTANY LIONS AT PURDUE BOILERMAKERS
3:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 3,
Tarentum Elks Lodge #644, Tarentum, Pa.

Pre-game Reception: 2:30 p.m.

The Alle-Kiski Society of the Penn State Alumni Association is sponsoring a food drive Saturday, Nov. 3, in conjunction with its televised football game tailgate party at the Tarentum Elks Lodge No. 644.

Kickoff for the Nittany Lions and the Purdue Boilermakers is 3:30 p.m. The pregame reception begins at 2:30 p.m. Refreshments are provided along with a cash bar.

Penn State fans are encouraged to bring canned food and nonperishable items, such as paper products and infant/baby supplies, to the game at the lodge on Sixth Street in Tarentum, Pa. The society will donate the collected items to the Allegheny Valley Association of Churches Food Bank, which serves the local region.

The Alle-Kiski Society is based at Penn State New Kensington and represents more than 7,000 Penn State alumni living in the Alle-Kiski Valley.

For more information, contact Bill Woodard at 724-334-6049 or uxw1@psu.edu.

For more on the society, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Alumni/alumorg.htm online.

Softball plays at home on Thursday; Barnes wins Player of the Week honors

$
0
0

 

It was another exciting week for women’s softball at Penn State New Kensington. The Lady Lions won all 6 games they played last week and another team member earned national recognition.

Looking ahead, Penn State New Kensington hosts Penn State Fayette on Thursday, April 19 for a conference doubleheader at Wolf Pack Park in Lower Burrell. Games will take place at 1:00 and 3:00 p.m. Penn State New Kensington softball is now 9-1 in the PSUAC conference, and Fayette isn't far behind at 6-4.

The Lady Lions come off of a 6-game winning streak, as they swept their opponents Penn State Greater Allegheny, Penn State Hazleton and Penn College last week. According to head coach Mike Marsili, “We hit the ball very well on Saturday and outscored them. Then, on Sunday our pitching held us in the games. Both offense and defense are doing well and everyone is contributing. It’s not just one or two people winning the games for us, everyone is stepping up to contribute.”


Fan Appreciation Day on Thursday:
Fans are encouraged to support Penn State New Kensington on Thursday, April 19 as the girls try to hold onto their conference lead. Free food, drinks and other giveaways will be provided to those in attendance.

Those needing a ride to and from Wolf Pack Park for the fan appreciation game can take advantage of the campus shuttle. The shuttle will be operating continuously during the game, departing from the lion shrine in the front parking lot and traveling to and from the ballfield from 1:30-4:30 p.m. For those with their own transportation, the field is located at the intersection of Wild Life Lodge and Garvers Ferry roads, a short drive from campus.


USCAA honors sophomore Keri Barnes as Player of the Week:
A few weeks ago sophomore pitcher Tarra Oravec was the first Penn State New Kensington softball player to ever receive United States Collegiate Athletic Association’s Player of the Week honors. Now, teammate Keri Barnes, catcher, is in the spotlight as the campus' second recipient of the Player of the Week award.

Barnes had a strong bat last week and went 11 for 20, hitting an impressive .550 average with 14 RBIs and 7 runs. She had 3 doubles and 3 home runs -- one of which came at a very key moment for New Kensington. On Sunday, Penn State New Kensington was tied at 3-3 against Penn College when Barnes hit a 3-run walk off home run in the bottom of the 8th inning to win the game.

Barnes is a psychology major at Penn State New Kensington and she comes to the team from Leechburg Area High School. 


Recap from last week:
April 11 - @ Greater Allegheny W 8-2, W 9-0
April 14 – hosted Penn State Hazleton W 10-4, W 6-3
April 15 – hosted Penn College W 6-3, W 4-3

For more information about women's softball, visit http://psnkathletics.com/sports/sball/index

Alle-Kiski Alumni Society meeting Nov. 19

$
0
0

 

THE LAST MEETING OF THE FALL SEMESTER
6:30 p.m., Monday, Nov. 19, J.G.’s Tarentum Station, Tarentum, Pa.

The last meeting of the fall semester for the Alle-Kiski Society of the Penn State Alumni Association is set for 6:30 p.m., Monday, Nov. 19, at J.G.’s Tarentum Station in Tarentum, Pa.

The top agenda items are ideas for future fundraising projects. All students, alumni and friends, especially recent Penn State graduates living in the Alle-Kiski Valley, are encouraged to attend the meeting and become involved in society activities.

For more information, email uxw1@psu.edu or call 724-334-6049. For more about AKS, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Alumni/alumorg.htm online.

Facilitators work with students and faculty in Polycom classes

$
0
0
Student facilitators
Facilitator Steven Yusko works with IST instructor Gary Heberling with a polycom class.

 

STUDENTS LAUREN SCHRAM AND STEVEN YUSKO
TROUBLESHOOT TELECOMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM
Serve as Conduits Between Fellow Students and Campus Faculty

Penn State New Kensington students Lauren Schram and Steven Yusko earned positions that provide perspectives from both sides of the academic vista. As facilitators for the campus’ telecommunications system, Schram and Yusko serve as conduits between fellow students and campus professors.

Known as Polycom, the telecommunications system allows collaboration among geographically dispersed groups, such as students at other campuses, via video and voice distribution. The two students troubleshoot problems that may arise during classroom use of Polycom services.

“I set up the connection and make sure nothing goes wrong,” said Schram, a junior administration of justice major. “I am involved with both the students and the professors, which is my favorite part of the job”

“I am actively involved with the professors in helping them telecommunicate between the New Kensington and the DuBois campuses,” said Yusko, a junior information sciences and technology major. “I am responsible for establishing and maintaining the connection for the duration of the class. I find solutions to problems that may occur.”

The New Kensington campus utilizes Polycom classes for students majoring in Administration of Justice, Information Sciences and Technology (IST), and French. For the fall semester, there are seven student facilitators covering nine classes.

"The facilitators provide a valuable resource for the campus as we move toward more innovative ways to offer programming,” said Andrea Adolph, director of academic affairs.  “The students also benefit as they learn new skills and new technologies."

Schram is a facilitator for the French and Administration of Justice programs. While the campus does not offer a French degree, some of its bachelor’s programs, such as Administration of Justice and IST, require three semesters of a foreign language. The Administration of Justice bachelor’s degree program is offered jointly by the Penn State campuses of Beaver, Shenango and New Kensington. All courses needed for the degree are offered at each campus through a combination of Web-based technology and the traditional classroom setting.

“I also organize the paperwork,” said Schram, a native of Munhall and graduate of Steel Valley High School. “I pass out tests and quizzes and send results to the professor at the Beaver campus.”

Yusko is a facilitator for the IST program, which is a four-year program at the New Kensington campus but not at Penn State DuBois. Yusko helps DuBois students with classes that originate at New Kensington. While he sits in on the classes, Yusko takes advantage of the learning opportunity.

“Since I am an IST major, I am learning the material of the upper-level courses,” said Yushko, who was raised in Monroeville. “I usually incorporate what I learn into my current classes.”

When he is not on campus, Yusko can be found completing his internship at Club Profit Systems, a company that offers a comprehensive and cost-effective golf club management software system.

“I test for bugs and problems in new versions of the company’s software,” said Yusko, a graduate of Gateway High School.” If the software passes, it is released to our customers.  If it fails, I write up a report and submit it to our programmers to fix.”

 

Facilitator Lauren Scram, center, works with students in a French polycom class. 
Facilitator Lauren Schram, center,  works with a student during a French polycom class.

The Administration of Justice program focuses on the interrelated components of the criminal justice system: public and private sector enforcement and investigation, legal systems, correctional treatment and community services. Through a combination of formal classroom instruction, practical training in laboratory courses, individual study and field experience, students in the program will be well prepared to pursue an array of career opportunities in federal, state and local law enforcement and correction agencies, court-related services, probation and parole services, and private-sector security. Schram expects to graduate in May 2014 and plans to continue her education in graduate school.

The Information Sciences and Technology major gives graduates a background in the core technical areas of networking, databases, programming, and system integration. Students are trained in key business areas, such as project management and organization theory. Students develop essential teamwork and problem solving skills through team projects. Students gain real-world work experience through a required internship and a fourth-year capstone project. During the capstone experience, teams of students engage in finding solutions to the real problems of major local companies. Yuskon graduates in December 2013 and hopes to turn his internship into a full-time position at the software company.

 

Spaghetti dinner benefits THON

$
0
0
New Kensington THON Team 2012
THON committee chair Kelsie Nury, center, was a member of the campus team that raised $50,000 for THON 2012.

 

NEW KENSINGTON STUDENTS
GEARING UP FOR 2013 DANCE MARATHON
Noon-6:00 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 18,
Mt. Hope Presbyterian Church, Penn Hills, Pa.

With THON 2013 only four months away, Penn State New Kensington students are stepping up the fundraising activities with a spaghetti dinner from noon to 6 p.m., on Sunday, Nov. 18, at the Mt. Hope Presbyterian Church in Penn Hills, Pennsylvania.

The menu features salad, bread, tea/orange juice/water/coffee, spaghetti with meat sauce or plain marinara, and various desserts. Tickets are $8 for adults, $4 for children under 10, and free for children 3 years old and younger. Takeout is available.

The Penn State Interfraternity Council/ Panhellenic Dance Marathon, aka THON, is a University-wide event that is scheduled for Friday-Sunday, Feb. 15-17, at the Bryce Jordan Center on Penn State’s University Park campus.  Kelsie Nury, a sophomore in the Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Management program, is the THON chair for the New Kensington campus. She has set a goal of $55,000, which would be the campus' highwater mark.

A year ago, Nury, a graduate of Burrell High School, represented the campus as a dancer at the marathon event and helped raise $50,437, second best total in campus history. The $52,000 in 2011 total is the campus standard. In the past three years, the New Kensington THON committee has collected more than $122,000 to support pediatric cancer patients, families and researchers. Since 2002, the total is $216,000.
 

Fundraising activities will continue through February as campus students will be hosting various events and canning outside businesses in the region to raise money for what is believed to be the largest student-run philanthropy in the world.

Mt. Hope Presbyterian Church is located at 12106 Frankstown Road, in Penn Hills. For more about the spaghetti dinner, contact Kelsie Nury at 724-462-1779 or kcn5033@psu.edu via email.

For information on other campus THON events, contact Lauren Blum at 724-334-6063 or ldb14@psu.edu via email


Local Rotarians establish $50,000 trustee scholarship for the campus

$
0
0
Rotary International

 

HIGHLANDS, BURRELL, OAKMONT, FOX CHAPEL AND
NEW KENSINGTON AREA PARTNER ON ENDOWMENT

Five Rotary clubs in the Alle-Kiski Valley joined forces to establish the $50,000 Rotarian Trustee Scholarship at Penn State New Kensington.

The scholarship was announced Oct. 23 at Oakmont Country Club during the 75th anniversary celebration of the New Kensington Area Rotary Club. In attendance was Sakuji Tanaka of Japan, who is serving a one-year term as president of the International Rotary.

The five local rotary clubs--Highlands, Burrell, Oakmont, Fox Chapel and New Kensington Area –as well as several individual donors, created the endowment to assist local area students with their chosen career paths.  Robert Arbuckle, former campus executive officer at Penn State New Kensington and past district governor of the Pittsburgh Area Rotary Clubs, spearheaded the initiative. Arbuckle has been a member of the New Kensington Area club since 1975. 

Hannah McBean, an adult student at the New Kensington campus, opened the anniversary celebration by singing the national anthems of the United States and Japan. McBean is a published author, poet, singer/songwriter, radio host, and motivational speaker. Her book, “Silent Spring,” features inspirational poetry that she uses in her motivational speeches. A junior in the Organizational Leadership program, she expects to graduate in 2014 and begin a start-up company that addresses issues of at-risk children. The Organizational Leadership program is designed for adult learners such as McBean, a wife and mother of six children. The program’s flexibility allows her to take traditional classroom instruction and to study online from home.

Rotary International is an organization whose main objective is service in the community, in the workplace, and around the world. There are more than 34,000 Rotary clubs and 1.2 million members located in nearly every country around the globe. Open to people of all cultures and ethnicities and not affiliated with any political or religious organizations, the clubs volunteer in communities at home and abroad to support education and job training, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation conditions, and eradicate polio.

For a list of scholarships at Penn State New Kensington, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Giving/endowments.htm online.

New entrance off Myers Drive highlights campus construction projects

$
0
0
Rain Garden Serve as Barrier
The new rain garden serves as a barrier to close the old Myers Drive entrance.

 

CHEMISTRY LAB REMODELED;
PARKING LOT RECONFIGURED;
ATHLETICS CENTER COURTYARD REVAMPED
Rain gardens provide barriers to Myers Drive; Lion Shrine area gets a facelift

With the days getting shorter and temperatures getting lower, the construction season is winding down at Penn State New Kensington.

For the past seven months, a series of renovation projects were underway on the campus. Capital improvements include redesigned parking lots, upgrades of chemistry labs and refurbishing the entrance to the Athletics Center.

“The primary intent was to improve the safety and accessibility while using the opportunity to improve the image of the campus exterior,.” said Jason Bush, director of business and finance. “I think the last time the upper parking lot was reconstructed was over 20 years ago.”

The parking lot improvements were highlighted by the removal of the front entrance off Myers Drive that leads to the upper lot. A new road connects the back parking lot with the access ramp. The reconfiguration allows for the addition of 10 new parking spaces and increased handicapped and visitor parking. The entire lot was torn-up and graded, and a new concrete base was poured and paved with asphalt.

The chemistry lab in the Science Building was thoroughly renovated. The upgrades improved safety and will allow for more hands-on instruction that support requirements for chemistry and other disciplines.

The “greening” of the campus moved forward with the additions of two environmentally-friendly rain gardens that control storm water. The gardens serve as a barrier to the closed Myers Drive entrance. Other improvements include seating niches, green space and landscaping in the Nittany Lion shrine area near the front lot.

“These are improvements that you get to see, so they will be more appealing to students,” Bush said.

The Athletics Center exterior is also new and improved. The parking lot for the soccer field as well as the access road underwent the same reconstruction as the upper lot. Other improvements that are in the final stages of completion are the beautification of the courtyard area. Concrete was replaced and reconfigured. ADA accessibility was improved for the front entrance to the building. An outdoor bike rack was added for pedaling enthusiasts and a seating wall, expected to be completed by the end of November, will provide more leisure space for students.

Aerial view of the campus after construction updates.
Aerial view of the campus after the upgrades.

Upgrading athletic facilities is one of the objectives of the campus’ “For the Future” campaign to raise $3 million by June 2014. Envisioned as a four-phase process, the athletic facilities upgrades are geared to both students and athletes at the campus. When the seat wall is finished, the third phase will be finished as well.

The second phase ended a year ago and concentrated on the interior of Athletics Center. Enhancements involved refurbishing the Fitness Center, moving the women’s locker room upstairs and giving it a complete makeover, renovating the downstairs room to make way for cardiovascular equipment, and setting up a pilates/yoga studio. In addition to the indoor amenities, an artificial putting green and driving cage were installed outside the Athletics Center for the men’s and women’s golf team.

Plans for the final phase, an on-campus softball diamond, are underway and awaiting funding. The Lady’ Lions new home will be constructed on a parcel of campus property located below the soccer field. Support from alumni and friends is vital for the project to come to fruition. The softball team, ranked 19th nationally in the final 2012 United States Collegiate Athletic Association poll, currently plays its home games at a municipal field, Wolf Pack Park in Lower Burrell.

Talk on conflict in Northern Ireland

$
0
0
Countries of focus

 

TONY NOVOSEL, SENIOR LECTURER OF HISTORY, UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH
"From Civil Rights to Civil War and Back: Northern Ireland 1967-1994"
Noon, Monday, Nov. 12, Conference Center

The conflict in Northern Ireland is the topic of a talk at noon, Monday, Nov. 12, in the Conference Center at Penn State New Kensington.

Tony Novosel, senior lecturer of history at the University of Pittsburgh, will discuss "From Civil Rights to Civil War and Back: Northern Ireland 1967-1994" and focus on the violence and the peace process. Novosel has traveled extensively in Northern Ireland since 1974, and teaches a class at the University of Pittsburgh about the history of Northern Ireland.  Novosel holds a doctorate in Soviet History from Pittsburgh, where he has taught history since 1990.

The discussion is a part of "Countries of Focus: Ireland and Great Britain," the year-long, campus celebration of international cultures. The talk is free to the public.

For the past six years, the campus has embarked on the promotion of greater awareness and understanding of world issues, international trends and global policy debates. Each year, the campus adopts a country or region of the world to inspire teaching and scholarship. Students, faculty and staff will explore and reflect on various aspects of Ireland's and Great Britain's history, culture and economic, social and political reality. During the 2013 spring break, the campus is sponsoring a weeklong trip to Ireland The itinerary, March 2 to 9, features visits to the cities of Dublin, Killarney, Cork, and Kilkenney in the Republic of Ireland, and Belfast in Northern Ireland.

“The trip to Ireland is a great opportunity for students who have not traveled internationally before,” said Amy Rustic, reference librarian at the campus’ Blissell Library and a member of the International Trip Committee. “The trip will include many interesting stops and will be a great introduction to the culture of Ireland.”

Since 2004, more than 130 campus students have traveled to Spain, France, Italy, China, Greece, Peru and the Galapagos Islands. In conjunction with the trips, students are required to take a related course that enriches their understanding of the destination and its culture. Upon return, participants present their experiences through narratives and slideshows to the entire campus community. These presentations both enable others to share in the immediate travel experience and help to generate excitement in students, as well as faculty and staff, to become involved in future trips.

For more on the country of focus program, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/InternationalPrograms/43845.htm online.

Collaborative workstation in Blissell Library

$
0
0
Collaboration workstation
Up to six students can work together on a project at the Collaboration Workstation.

 

TWO LARGE COMPUTER SCREENS ALLOW
MULTIPLE PARTICIPANTS TO WORK ON DOCUMENT OR PROJECT

Penn State New Kensington’s Blissell Library recently unveiled a two-monitor computer system that is designed for group projects and meetings.

The Collaborative Workstation allows multiple participants to work on a document or project by viewing large computer screens. The area is equipped with a conference table and six chairs. Up to six laptops or ipads can connect into the hub in the center of the table. The monitors can display two of the laptop screens simultaneously, so the group can work as a team.

“It is starting to catch on with the students as student groups began using it last week,” said Jennifer Gilley, head librarian. “We have also had faculty and staff use it for meetings that involved technology.”

There is no formal reservation system set-up, but requests can be made at the library’s front desk. Laptops can be signed out for use at the site. The collaborative station is free to students, faculty, staff and the general public.

Blissell Library is a government depository library, which means that it serves to make selected government documents accessible to the citizens of Westmoreland County. It is only the second library in the county to serve in this capacity and the only Penn State campus library other than University Park to be so designated.

Because of the University's status as a state-related institution and its strong public service commitment, the resources of Blissell Library are available for use by the public. These resources include all online databases. To take advantage of the library's resources, come in and fill out a form to receive a Penn State library card.

For more about Blissell library and the workstation, visit http://www.libraries.psu.edu/psul/newkensington.html/index.html online.

Inaugural rad sci mini-conference draws 200 professionals

$
0
0
Rad Sci Mini Conference
More than 200 radiological technologists attended the campus' first Rad Sci Mini-Conference.

 

ATTENDEES EARN SEVEN CATEGORY A
CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS

The Pennsylvania Society of Radiologic Technologists and Penn State New Kensington joined forces for the inaugural PSRT Mini-Conference Nov. 3 at the campus.

Organized by Debra Majetic, coordinator and instructor for the Radiological Sciences program at the New Kensington campus, the conference was geared to technologists in the imaging field of the health care system. More than 200 professionals and undergraduates attended the event that offered career development topics that ranged from understanding cultural diversity to radiation risks of diagnostic imaging. Attendees can earn seven Category A continuing education credits approved by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT).

“The conference helps radiographers stay abreast of innovative changes in the field by receiving much needed continuing education credit,” said Majetic, a 1979 graduate of the campus’ radiological sciences program.

The guest speakers included: Dolores O’Hara, coordinator of Nursing program at the New Kensington campus; Natasha Garrett, director of international student services at La Roche College; Mark Straub manager of radiology informatics at West Penn Allegheny Health Systems; Margaret Blackwood, system director of radiation physics and radiation safety officer at West Penn Allegheny Health System; Myron Hartman, coordinator of the Biomedical Engineering Technology program at the New Kensington campus; and Marcia Curler, clinical coordinator for the Radiological Sciences program at Penn State New Kensington.

Radiography is a science combining medical imaging technology with human compassion. Radiographers use their knowledge of physics, human anatomy and physiology to create permanent medical radiographic images. These imaging professionals provide a wide range of services using technology founded on theoretical knowledge and scientific concepts. Radiological services are offered in a variety of settings such as hospitals, health-care facilities, physicians' offices, research centers and equipment sales offices.

Because of its focus on health care, Pittsburgh has long been a hotbed for careers in radiology. The Radiological Sciences program at Penn State New Kensington offers students an associate degree, and graduates are eligible for examination with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. The 72-credit program begins in the fall of each year and requires 24 consecutive months of study, including summer sessions. The program is conducted in cooperation with the hospitals of West Penn, Butler Memorial, and Allegheny General, Alle-Kiski Medical Center, and Allegheny Imaging of McCandless. Careers in radiography offer flexible work schedules that accommodate various lifestyles and employment needs.

For photos of the conference, visit http://psnk.smugmug.com/ online.

For more about the conference, contact Majetic at 724-334-6738 or dak25@psu.edu via email.

For more on the Radiological Sciences program at Penn State New Kensington, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/Degrees/44310.htm online.

Rad Sci students show their Penn State spirit
While showing their Penn State spirit, students in the campus' Radiolgical Sciences program learn that the quest for knowledge continues after graduation and in the workforce.

Thanksgiving week: No classes; campus open three days

$
0
0
Thanksgiving Break
Thanksgiving Week: The campus is closed Thursday and Friday...

 

STUDENTS ON BREAK:
Monday, Nov. 19 - Friday, Nov. 23

OFFICES AND ART GALLERY OPEN:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Nov. 19, 20, 21

CAMPUS CLOSED:
Thursday-Friday, Nov. 22-23

CAMPUS OPEN AND CLASSES RESUME:
8:00 a.m., Monday, Nov. 26

No classes are scheduled at Penn State New Kensington Monday to Friday, Nov. 19 to 23, during the Thanksgiving break.

The campus will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Wednesday, Nov. 19 to 21; campus will be closed Thursday and Friday, Nov. 22 and 23. Classes will resume on Monday, Nov. 26.

The fall semester ends on Dec. 14, and final exams run from Dec. 17 to 21. Commencement is set for 10 a.m. on Dec. 22, in the Forum Theatre.

No classes Monday-Friday ...no classes Monday-Friday...

Art Gallery closed on Thursday ...Art Gallery is closed on Thursday-Friday.
Weekend hours, noon-5:00 p.m., Saturday-Sunday.

Saturday’s Turkey Trot caters to running enthusiasts, joggers, casual walkers

$
0
0
Downhill finish
A downhill finish for the 5K.

 

THIRTY-THIRD ANNUAL TRADITION RUNS
THROUGH CAMPUS AND UPPER BURRELL
Classic 5K: 10:00 a.m.
One-Mile Fun Run/Walk: 10:15 a.m.
Saturday, Nov. 17, Athletics Center

With distances that cater to the tastes of running enthusiasts, joggers, and casual walkers, the Penn State New Kensington Turkey Trot gets under way at 10 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 17, at the campus Athletics Center.

A 33-year tradition at the campus, the pre-Thanksgiving race has grown from an informal weekday 2-miler into a classic weekend 5K, a 3.1-mile run through Upper Burrell. Held in conjunction with the 5K is a low-key 1-mile fun run or walk that starts at 10:15 a.m.

The feature race begins at the Athletics Center, crosses the upper parking lot and heads down Myers Drive to the turnaround point. Participants then backtrack to the finish line at the Athletics Center. The 1-miler will stay within the parameters of the campus.

Fourth-year race coordinator Pepsi Umberger, instructor in kinesiology at the campus, developed the three-race format to accommodate alumni, friends and families in the local communities. The Saturday date and open registration dovetails with Chancellor Kevin Snider’s vision of using the resources of Penn State to engage the community and enhance the quality of life in the region. In addition, Umberger has partnered with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation to help children and adults with the debilitating disease.

"November kicks off the holiday season, and it is a great time of year to create a level of health and wellness awareness in the community and among students, faculty and staff," said Umberger, who also serves as director of the campus’ intramurals program. "I believe people are looking for fun events and good causes to get together with family and friends."

The entry fee is $15 for college and high school students with ID; $20 for campus faculty and staff; and $25 for local residents. A special family fee of $25 allows four family members to participate in the distances of their choosing. Frozen turkeys will be awarded to the winners of each of the four age categories: 18-24; 25-32; 33-44; 45-and over. All registrants receive a "Turkey Trot" T-shirt and a goodies bag.

The one-mile fun run is a family event.
The one-mile fun run is a family event.

All proceeds benefit the Cystic Fibrosis Western Pennsylvania Chapter. Cystic fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States. A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs, leads to life-threatening lung infections, obstructs the pancreas, and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food.

In the 1950s, few children with cystic fibrosis lived to attend elementary school. Today, advances in research and medical treatments have further enhanced and extended life for children and adults with CF. Many people with the disease can now expect to live into their 30s, 40s and beyond.

"It is a great time of year to reach out and get people involved in a great cause," said Umberger, who earned a master’s degree in sports administration from Kent State University. "The race provides fun for the campus and community, while benefiting people who are impacted by Cystic Fibrosis."

Last year, 100 runners took up the challenge, and the race raised more than $2,000 for the family of Patrolman Derek Kotecki, the Lower Burrell police officer who was slain in 2011 in the line of duty.

For more information, call or email Umberger at 724-334-6747 or plh20@psu.edu.


Last chance of semester to 'Be a Student for a Day' at New Kensington

$
0
0

 

PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS GET
FIRST-HAND GLIMPSE OF COLLEGE LIFE
8:45 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 28
Free Lunch

Prospective students have the final chance this semester to get a first-hand glimpse of college life at Penn State New Kensington, from 8:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 28, as part of the campus' "Be a Penn State Student for a Day" program.

High school students and adult learners can sit in on college classes, interact with current students and take in the campus' atmosphere. Participants will learn about making a successful taransition to college. Attendees can enjoy a free lunch in Cafe 780.

Additional "Be a Student" days will be held during the spring semester in 2013.

To reserve a spot, call 724-334-LION or 888-968-PAWS. For more on admissions events, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions/admevents.htm online.

Local food bank is recipient of New Kensington alumni society drive

$
0
0
TV football game
The Penn State faithful were treated to a Nittany Lion victory.

 

FOOD DRIVE HELD IN CONJUCTION WITH TV FOOTBALL GAME

Penn State community spirit matched its football spirit Nov. 3 as the Alle-Kiski Alumni Society collected food and money for a local food bank at its TV football tailgate party at the Elks Lodge #644 in Tarentum, Pa.

Alumni and friends stepped up when it counted and donated eight large boxes of non-perishable items. Society board member Lorri Wilde delivered the goods to the Allegheny Valley Association of Churches Food Bank.

"The response was amazing,” said Wilde, immediate past president of the alumni society. "The generosity of Penn State alumni, family and friends once again demonstrates our commitment to our community and those less fortunate."

Located in Natrona Heights, Pa., the food bank provides canned goods, boxed foods, produce, meats, and dairy products to more than 480 families in the region. The service area includes the communities of Brackenridge, East Deer Township, Fawn Township, Frazier Township, Harrison Township, Tarentum, West Deer Township, New Kensington, Lower Burrell, Verona and Arnold. In addition, eligible families receive Christmas and Easter food baskets and turkey vouchers, as well as winter coats, hats and mittens. Toys and gifts are distributed during the Christmas holiday.

The Alle-Kiski Society’s community service project was held in conjunction with the annual football social. More than 70 Penn State fans brought donations to the Elks Club and cheered for the Nittany Lions who played at Purdue University. The football team fulfilled its duty and rewarded the Blue and White faithful with a 34-9 victory.

For photos of the event, visit http://psnk.smugmug.com/ online.

For more on the Alle-Kiski Society, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Alumni/alumorg.htm online.

'The Glass Menagerie' in rehearsal for Nov. 29 opening

$
0
0
The Glass Menagerie
The Drama Club's fall production opens a three-day run Nov. 29.

 

FALL STAGE PRODUCTION
8:00 p.m., Thursday-Saturday, Nov. 29-Dec. 1, Forum Theatre

The cast and crew of "The Glass Menagerie" are in rehearsal at Penn State New Kensington. The three shows performed by the Drama Club are set for 8 p.m., Thursday-Saturday, Nov. 29 and 30 and Dec. 1, in the campus' Forum Theatre.

Directed by Bill Mitas, instructor in theatre arts at the campus, the drama revolves around a domineering mother, an extroverted son and introverted daughter. The play was written by Tennessee Williams and is considered by many to be autobiographical.

"The students are working hard with lines and music," said Mitas, in his fifth year as director of campus productions. "They will be ready for show time."

The four-member student cast features Pamela Farneth (Amanda Wingfield) Chris Capo (Tom Wingfield), Kylee Danko (Laura Wingfield) and Josh Milan (Gentleman Caller).

Assisting Mitas with the production are: Erin Holleran, stage manager; Samantha Ndungu Muhhuku, props master; Anthony Maiolo and Cody Shoemaker, set; Joshua Marfin and Qi Shi, sound; Zachary Montgomery and Toney Michael, lighting; Simrit Singh, video; and Angie Mitas, costumes.

The “The Glass Menagerie” opened on Broadway in 1945 and won the New York Drama Critics Circle Award. It was Williams’ first successful production, and he followed it with other classics including “A Streetcar Named Desire” and “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof.” Williams is regarded as one of the top American playwrights.

Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students. For more information, call 724-334-6032.

CHARACTERS AND CAST

Amanda Wingfield (Pamela Farneth)
A faded Southern belle abandoned by her husband who is trying to raise her two children under harsh financial conditions. Amanda yearns for the comforts from her youth and also longs for her children to have the same comforts, but her devotion to them has made her – as she admits at one point – to almost be "hateful" towards them.

Tom Wingfield (Chris Capo)
Amanda's son and Laura's younger brother. Tom works at a shoe warehouse to support his family but is frustrated by his job and aspires to be a poet. He escapes from reality through nightly trips to the movies and local bars. Tom feels both obligated toward yet burdened by his family. He feels he is grossly misunderstood by his mother.

Laura Wingfield (Kylee Danko)
Amanda's daughter and Tom's older sister. A childhood illness has left her with a limp, and she has an inferiority complex that has caused her to be isolated from the outside world. She has created a world of her own symbolized by her collection of glass figurines.

A Gentleman Caller (Josh Milan)
An old high school acquaintance of Tom and Laura. Jim was a popular athlete during his days at Soldan High School and is now a shipping clerk at the same shoe warehouse in which Tom works.

Mr. Wingfield
Amanda's absentee husband and Laura and Tom’s father. Mr. Wingfield was a handsome man who worked for a telephone company and "fell in love with long distance," abandoning his family 16 years before the play's action. Although he doesn't appear onstage, Mr. Wingfield is frequently referred to by Amanda and his picture is prominently displayed in the Wingfields' living room.

CREW

Erin Holleran- Stage Manage
Samantha Ndungu Muhhuku- Props Master
Anthony Maiolo-Set
Joshua Marfin-Sound
Zachary Montgomery-Lights
Qi Shi-Sound
Cody Shoemaker-Set
Simrit Singh- Video
Toney Michael- Lights
Costumes- Angie Mitas

DIRECTOR

William Mitas

LeaderQuest conference grooms future student leaders

$
0
0

 

NINE STUDENTS ATTEND SECOND-YEAR CONFERENCE

Penn State New Kensington is on the verge of getting an infusion of new student leaders. Nine campus students attended a leadership conference, Nov. 9-10, and if history repeats itself, most will assume leadership berths on various campus committees and organizations.

LeaderQuest is a two-day event that brings together emerging student leaders from the Penn State campuses in western Pennsylvania--Beaver, DuBois, Fayette, Greater Allegheny, Shenango and New Kensington.  Held at Penn State’s Stone Valley Recreation Center Stone in Huntingdon County, about 17 miles from the University Park campus, the conference’s mission is to foster a culture of new leaders on each participating campus.

“We specifically target students who have yet to hold a leadership position on campus but have fantastic potential to do so in the future,” said Lauren Blum, coordinator of student life at the New Kensington campus. 

The conference helps aspiring student leaders develop their dormant skills by recognizing personal values and leadership styles and understanding the importance of multicultural competency. Coupled with increased communication skills and respect for the community, attendees are poised to become the vanguard of campus activities.

A year ago, 12 campus students, including freshmen Kelsie Nury, Bill Staniszewski and Courtney Rockwell, made the 131-mile trip to the inaugural conference. None of them had previously held leadership positions at the campus. Today, all three are deeply involved in extra-curricular activities at the campus and appreciate the opportunities opened for them by the conference experience.

“None of the students was more than a little involved on campus,” said Blum, who holds a master's degree in student affairs from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.  “Now they are very much involved and served as orientation leaders for fall orientation. They wanted to attend LeaderQuest again this year.”

After last year’s conference, Nury joined THON, a student-run, University-wide fundraiser that benefits pediatric cancer patients, families and research. She earned the coveted role as a dancer at the marathon event and helped the campus raise $50,437, second best total in New Kensington history. This year, she oversees the campus’ fundraising effort as the campus’ THON committee chair. She has set an ambitious goal of $55,000.

 “I had a fabulous time, learned a lot about being a leader, and it definitely helped me feel confident in stepping up as the THON chair this year,” said Nury, who is studying in the Hotel, Restaurant, and Institutional Management program.

Staniszewski emerged from the conference and landed board positions on two student clubs. He is president of Engineering Club and vice president of Lion Ambassadors, a service organization found on every campus of Penn State. In addition, he is associated with THON and the Campus Activities Board (CAB), which assists the Student Life Office in planning campus events and activities.

“LeaderQuest really helped me to step out of my shell, and now I am involved with a lot of campus organizations,” said Staniszewski, an electro-mechanical engineering technology major. “I learned a lot and made some great friends. I just love doing stuff on campus as much as I can.”

Working with THON seems to be a common denominator for LeaerQuest conferees. Rockwell is on the THON committee and is a member of the Lion Ambassadors. She also serves as marketing chair for CAB.

“I made some really great longtime friends, both from our campus and from other campuses,” said Rockwell, who is majoring in health and human development.  “LeaderQuest also helped me step up this year more confidently.”

For more on clubs and organizations on campus, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/ClubsAndOrganizations/clubs.htm online.

Thursday is Penn State Day of Philanthropy

$
0
0
Penn State day of Philanthropy

CAMPUS AND UNIVERSITY RAISE AWARENESS OF
PRIVATE GIVING AND IMPACT ON STUDENTS
Thursday, Nov. 15,
www.NOV15.psu.edu

Penn State New Kensington, in conjunction with other Penn State campuses, is participating in a University-wide philanthropy initiative on Thursday, Nov. 15.

The second “Penn State Day of Philanthropy” is intended to raise awareness of private giving’s impact on the University and its students. Alumni and friends are encouraged to support the campus by giving online. By designating Penn State New Kensington, your gift benefits the Future Fund at the campus. The Future Fund holds unrestricted gifts that are essential to the continued success of the campus.

Chancellor Kevin Snider depends on these flexible resources to address the New Kensington campus’ most pressing needs and to create opportunities. These funds are applied to areas with the greatest need, like student aid and academic initiatives.

For more information on the event or to give online, visit www.NOV15.psu.edu.

Viewing all 1342 articles
Browse latest View live