Exploiting the American Revolution and Founding Fathers for political advantages is the subject of a talk by author and scholar Andrew Schocket who visits Penn State New Kensington April 5.

“Muscle Cars, Lattés, and Rooftop Grilling:
How We Sell the Founders, and Why It Matters.”

7 p.m., Tuesday, April 5, Conference Center

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. -- How everyone from advertisers to politicians use, represent, and abuse the American Revolution is the topic of a presentation at 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 5, at Penn State New Kensington. Author and scholar Andrew M. Schocket will talk about “Muscle Cars, Lattés, and Rooftop Grilling: How We Sell the Founders, and Why It Matters.” The event is free to the public.

In addition to the evening lecture, Schocket will meet during the day with students in an honors seminar class. The author is a professor of history and American culture studies at Bowling Green State University. He was invited to campus by Craig Hammond, associate professor of history, who teaches the class.

“Schocket provides a fresh, revealing look at how we understand, embrace, and use the founders in everyday public life,” Hammond said. "With a presidential primary and election just around the corner, Schocket forces us to think about why the founding remains so prominent in American life after two centuries, and how to think intelligently about the barrage of homages to the founders that will be forthcoming as political campaigns seek the support of voters.”

Schocket’s presentation focuses on advertisers shaping the writings and achievements of the Founding Fathers to conform to their own preconceived notions. By portraying the American Revolution and its participants in different ways, advertisers provide fodder for the national conversation on American values.

Schocket cites George Washington as an example. A dignified president with a stern countenance is transformed into a carnival barker with a smirk who peddles cars and trucks. The phenomena is especially prevalent in February, where Washington is often aided and abetted by Abraham Lincoln.

“For a long time, we have slapped the names and images of the founders on products and services from life insurance to beer to plumbing,” said Schocket, director of the American Culture Studies program at the university in Ohio. “For even longer -- since our nation’s inception -- we have contested the meanings of the American Revolution as a way to debate our nation’s principles and values, and just as importantly, who is truly ‘American.’ What is fairly new is how these recent advertisements, like so many facets of our lives, have also become politicized.”

The talk complements Schocket’s latest book, “Fighting over the Founders: How We Remember the American Revolution” (New York University Press, 2015). In addition to advertisers, Schocket takes on an array of industries and individuals, including politicians, who create their own “spin” on the legacy of the Founding Fathers.

“In any society, ownership of an authoritative past provides a powerful political rhetorical weapon,” Schocket writes in the book.

Schocket examines the question of the duality of the American Revolution -- was it limited to the goal of independence from Great Britain or were there broader issues of class, race and gender equality. Those seeking power and profit try to exploit the Revolution by perpetrating myths and ignoring facts. How politicians and advertisers present these 200-year-old memes to the American people controls the narrative and forms the foundation for the collective memory of the nation.

“In all nations, the ability to claim an authoritative version of crucial memories makes for powerful ammunition for fundamental debates,” Schocket wrote. “Defining memory defines the nation, and defining the nation means the privileging of some values and policies over others.”

In preparation for Schocket’s visit, Hammond’s honors class, “Debating the Purpose of Government,” is reading and discussing the book as a part of an assignment.

The day before his campus visit, Monday, April 4, Schocket will be a guest on Pittsburgh’s NPR news station, 90.5 WESA. He will be interviewed live at noon by Paul Guggenheimer, host of "Essential Pittsburgh," a daily program of the radio station. Essential Pittsburgh, which airs from noon to 1 p.m., is a locally produced program dedicated to exploring critical issues affecting Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania. The show features community leaders and newsmakers in the arts, sciences, technology, business, healthcare, government and education. The interview will be repeated at 8 p.m. on WESA.

Seating is limited in the Conference Center. Reservations are encouraged but not necessary. Guests will be admitted on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, call 724-334-6032.

George Washington with a Dodge Challenger during the American Revolution.
Photo courtesy of dsotolotto.wordpress.com

Andrew M. Schocket
Schocket earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Yale University and a doctorate in history from the College of William and Mary. At Bowling Green, he studies and teaches early American history and culture, the American Revolution, the Atlantic World, memory, and digital humanities. His teaching focuses on interactive methods that engage students, on fostering a classroom atmosphere in which all students feel encouraged to participate, and on demanding excellence.

Besides the Founding Fathers book, Schocket has written “Founding Corporate Power in Early National Philadelphia” (EH.NET, 2007). He is published in a variety of academic journals and is a contributing writer for numerous media outlets, including the Washington Post, San Francisco Chronicle, Salon, New York Daily News and History News Network. He blogs regularly at www.andyschocket.net

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

Penn State New Kensington students Yasmin Ray, left, and Brandon Burchette earned scholarships March 4 from the Pennsylvania Black Conference on Higher Education.

Brandon Burchette receives Lynch scholarship and
Yasmin Ray awarded Irvis scholarship at
Black Conference on Higher Education

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. -- Penn State New Kensington students Yasmin Ray and Brandon Burchette were named recipients of scholarships March 4 at the Pennsylvania Black Conference on Higher Education in Philadelphia.

Ray, a senior in the Psychology program, earned the $1,000 K. Leroy Irvis Undergraduate scholarship. The award is based on scholarship, interpersonal skills, leadership, writing, speaking and computational skills, extracurricular activities, and a grade-point average above 3.0. In addition, she was judged on her essay, “Why I Should Receive a K. Leroy Irvis Scholarship Award."  Ray’s essay highlighted her career choice.

“The main point of my essay spoke of wanting to be a counselor as my profession,” said Ray, who will earn her bachelor’s degree in May. “After graduation, I plan to go to graduate school or enter the work force.”

Burchette, a sophomore communications major, was awarded the $1,000 Robert D. Lynch Leadership scholarship. The Lynch award is based on the same criteria as the Irvis scholarship with a special emphasis on leadership skills. Burchette also was judged on an essay, “Why I Should Receive a Robert D. Lynch Scholarship." His essay focused on his development as a college student. He transferred to the campus in the fall from Morehouse College in Georgia.

“I described the significant changes that I've undergone since my freshman year of college, and how these changes made me a good candidate to be the recipient of the Robert D. Lynch scholarship,” Burchette said.

The Black Conference comprises professionals from the public and private sectors -- education, business, social services, law and government -- who are committed to improving and ensuring the education of blacks and other underrepresented groups at Pennsylvania colleges and universities. The organization awarded $9,000 in scholarships to nine African-American students across the commonwealth. Burchette reveled in the experience.

“Being in a positive social environment was just as refreshing as it was informational,” Burchette said. “I could network and learn from young individuals like myself.”

Burchette's journey to the campus took a circuitous route that weaved its way through Atlanta. His interest in Penn State New Kensington was piqued when he attended a campus mentoring program with Chet Howell, a security guard at the campus. Howell has mentored Burchette since the student attended Highlands High School. After enrolling last year for a summer course, a chance meeting with Lou Payne, senior information sciences and technology major and captain of the campus basketball team, cemented Burchette’s decision to transfer from Morehouse.

“Lou referred me to head basketball coach Art McCray,” said Burchette, a 6’5 forward. “I enrolled, tried out for the team and made it.”

Since matriculating at the campus, the Tarentum native has thrived both in and out of the classroom. He was selected to the Dean’s List in fall 2015, his first semester on campus. Membership on the Dean’s List is reserved for students who achieve a grade-point average of 3.5 or higher. He also serves as an orientation leader and holds memberships in the Multicultural club, a student group, and Student Activity Fee board, a campus committee.

A Penn State New Kensington student receiving the Irvis or Lynch scholarship at the conference is becoming an annual tradition, especially for Ray. She is the first campus student to win back-to-back Irvis awards. Hannah McBean, an adult student who earned her bachelor’s degree in organization leadership in December 2014, won the Irvis scholarship in 2012 and the Lynch scholarship 2014.

Ray’s connection to the Black Conference began in 2014 when she participated in the annual Robert D. Lynch Student Leadership Development Institute in Lancaster. Sponsored by the Black Conference, the three-day event was designed to address topics essential to developing leadership skills for African-American, Latino-Americans, and other multicultural college students. The event gave Ray an opportunity to participate in workshops that examined cross-cultural communication, interpersonal relations, inclusive environments, and cultural awareness.

“To be perfectly honest, the experience changed my entire outlook on my future,” said Ray, a member of the Dean’s List with a 3.75 grade-point average. “Sometimes having big dreams in a small town can alienate a person, but at this conference, I was surrounded by like minds with a vision for success not unlike my own. I appreciated the diversity among African-Americans, who are usually the minority in collegiate settings. There were many non-African-Americans in attendance receiving the same wonderful messages, resources and suggestions on how to be successful.”

When she is not focused on her studies, Ray juggles her responsibilities as a mother of two children, and a volunteer for activities on campus and in the community. She is an active member in the Multicultural club, serves as the student representative on the campus Diversity Team committee, and works as the student marketing manager for the Athletic Department. Off-campus, she serves as a mentor to two students in the Pittsburgh Job Corps.

“I am having a wonderful experience at Penn State New Kensington,” Ray said. “I am able to reach my goals knowing that I have a wonderful support system, not only in my personal life, but at school too.”

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

Betsy Blazek-O’Neill and
Dom Battaglia of Allegheny Valley Hospital
“Vitamins & Supplements: Help or Harm?”

6 - 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 20, Conference Center

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. -- Lucy Ricardo pitching "vitameatavegamin*" in 1952 as a cure for people who were tired, run-down and listless is the most famous of tonics that have been peddled throughout the ages as health solutions for a myriad of ailments. Today, the pills and elixirs, called dietary supplements, are more sophisticated. But are they needed, and do they work any better (or worse) than back in the day?

The answer to these questions will be discussed by a physician and dietician from 6 to 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 20, in the Conference Center at Penn State New Kensington. “Vitamins & Supplements: Help or Harm?” is the topic of a program on the multi-level marketing of dietary supplements.

Betsy Blazek-O’Neill, a physician at Allegheny Valley Hospital, and Dom Battaglia, a registered dietician at the hospital, will discuss how the right nutrition choices can provide necessary vitamins and minerals. They will review the latest information on the ubiquitous vitamins and supplements that are hawked daily by broadcast and print media and across the internet. Blazek-O’Neill and Battaglia will help the audience navigate the potholed road to good health. A question and answer session will follow the talk.

Blazek-O'Neill, board certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation, has been in practice for 28 years. She is an expert in how alternative and complementary treatment options work with traditional medicine. A graduate of the Medical College of Georgia School of Medicine, Blazek-O'Neill completed a residency at University of Wisconsin Hospital.

Sponsored by the campus and Allegheny Valley Hospital PriorityCare, the event is free to the public. Parking is free in all campus lots.

To register or for more information, call 877-284-2000 and select option 2 or visit
https://www.ahn.org/events/vitamins-and-supplements-help-or-harm

*Lucy Ricardo was a character played by Lucille Ball on the “I Love Lucy” television show. In the “Lucy Does a TV Commercial” episode, Lucy is the spokesman the fictitious vitameatavegamin,  a remedy for people who “poop out at parties.” The concoction was actually 23 percent alcohol and would do nothing but get users sloshed. During the many commercial takes, Lucy drinks a full bottle and becomes stewed to the gills. She had a lot of “splainin to do” to her husband, Ricky Ricardo, played by Ball’s real-life husband, Desi Arnez. To view a clip of the Lucy commercial, visit http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=Vita+Vita+Vegamin+Lucy&&view=detail&mid=99C22A8375568FBC66D399C22A8375568FBC66D3&FORM=VRDGAR

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

Family event spotlights cultural diversity of campus

10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saturday, April 9, Athletics Center

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. – Drums from the Far East, dancing from the Middle East and singing from Africa will showcase the diversity of Penn State New Kensington at the first International Children’s Festival from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 9, in the campus Athletics Center. The theme of the festival is “Different Colors, Different Cultures, One World.”

Designed for children and students of all ages, the event will feature live performances and workshops, arts and crafts exhibits, bilingual book readings, cultural displays and a bouncy ball court. The interactive activities will provide an entertaining learning experience for kids and parents. The festival is free to the public.

Children will receive a colorful wrist band and a “passport,” which will be stamped with a star at each of the seven continents they can visit. In addition, kids can take selfies with famous landmarks from around the world, such as the Eifel Tower, Great Wall of China and Niagara Falls.

Performances and workshops will include Taiko drumming and Steel Dragon Lion dancing from Japan, dancing from India and the Middle East, drumming and dancing performances from Africa, and karaoke from Malawi, a country in southeast Africa. Youngsters can learn to salsa at a dance workshop.

Arts and crafts from around the world, organized by JoAnn Wesolosky, an instructor for the campus' Kids in College summer program, will feature origami, the Japanese art of paper folding, a piñata and Chinese lanterns. One of the craft tables is sponsored by Melba Amador, instructor in Spanish, and the campus’ Spanish Club. Amador joined the faculty in August and brought a wealth of Latino, Chicano and Latin America culture to the campus.

During the “Book Nook” session, children stories will be read in several languages. Clothing and fashion by students and faculty will highlight a variety of heritages. The campus racquetball court will house a giant global ball for kids to toss around.

Diversity is the cornerstone of Chancellor Kevin Snider’s administration. Since he was appointed in 2008, the campus has become more diversified, experiencing an increase in international and African-American students and faculty. Nineteen percent of faculty and 12 percent of the student body identify themselves as of international or African-American descent.

The festival is sponsored by the campus’ Office of Student Affairs, Diversity Team, and Student Government Association. Although most campus activities tend to favor the “traditional age” student, those from 18 to 24 years old, the children’s festival was developed with the focus on adult learners and military veterans. This group comprises approximately 25 percent of the campus student population. Many work full time while supporting a family.

“One of the main reasons for this family-friendly event is in support of the adult learners on campus,” said Theresa Bonk, director of student affairs. “Many of our events are geared towards traditional age students. We wanted to encourage and support our older students with more family activities.”

For more information on the festival, call 724-334-6062.

Volunteers needed
Campus students, faculty and staff, as well as community organizations, are encouraged to share their heritage and culture at the festival. Tables will be available for individuals and groups to display clothing, musical instruments and other items from their native countries.

“It would be great if individuals wore traditional clothing,” said Julie Miller, graduate assistant at the campus and coordinator of the event. “We would like the festival to be an opportunity for kids to ask questions about something that they might not be familiar with in terms of wardrobe or traditional dress from a culture that is different than their own.”

The festival committee is looking for volunteers for to read at the Book Nook, teach dancing at the workshops, and sing, dance or play a musical instrument. People also are needed to supervise the art and crafts tables and bouncy ball room.

To volunteer, contact Miller at 724-334-6064 or jam1036@psu.edu

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

Students accepted for the fall 2015 were honored at a reception on campus. Chancellor Kevin Snider welcomes the class of 2019.

Spring Open House

9 a.m., Saturday, April 9

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. -- Prospective students and their families will have the opportunity to discover the benefits of attending Penn State New Kensington at an open house event at 9 a.m., Saturday, April 9.

The Spring Open House program gives participants a chance to explore the University, meet with campus staff and faculty, and tour the campus with current students as hosts. Patty Brady, director of enrollment management, and the admissions staff will talk about the admission process, student-aid opportunities, and student life.

The open house is one of two in the spring to acquaint prospective students with the campus and Penn State's academic programs. The Transfer Student Open House, 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 18, will review the admissions process for transfer students. Discussions will focus on important points about admissions and financial aid services available for this population. Students are welcome to bring copies of any post-secondary transcripts with them for an unofficial review of credit transfer. To register for an event, call 724-334-LION or 888-968-PAWS.

For more on admissions, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions

For more admissions events, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions/admevents.htm

Virtual tour preview of campus
Prior to visiting the campus in person, prospective students can access the new interactive virtual tour. Out-of-state and international students can get a feel for the campus via a home computer or mobile app.

The online tour also highlights campus students, facilities and activities. After previewing the campus, future Penn Staters can use the navigation buttons to schedule a visit or apply online. The tour is available in English, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese.

“This is a great tool for our (admissions) office,” said Corinne Coulson, enrollment specialist at the campus. “It can be utilized during our school visits, college fairs and other recruitment activities.”

Users can explore different areas of the 72-acre campus using four tour options -- walking, panoramic view, videos, and photos. The guided walking tour starts at the Lion Shrine and continues to 19 other campus hot spots, including the Junction Coffee Bar, Art Gallery, Computer Center, Forum Theatre, Conference Center, Café 780 and Athletics Center.

Located in the lobby of the main entrance, the coffee bar has the look of a mini-Starbucks and serves Starbucks products. The Athletics Center houses a  basketball/volleyball court, wrestling room, racquetball court and the Pilates/yoga room, a fitness center, with heavy equipment, and a cardiovascular room with light equipment.

The guided tour features the Biomedical Engineering Technology (BET) and Radiological Sciences (RadSci) classroom and labs. Recent renovations to the areas allow for more hands-on instruction. Healthcare providers rely on BET graduates to operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair medical equipment. Contemporary imaging equipment for the RadSci program gives students the opportunity to work with medical equipment that is currently used in hospitals. Radiographers provide patient care using safe radiation practices, operate sophisticated technical equipment and make independent judgments and decisions daily.

The Panoramic tour provides 360-degree views of campus facilities. The Academic and Student Success Center, Elizabeth S. Blissell Library, and Nittany Highland Apartments are among the 21 campus venues. The virtual tour features students, faculty and staff and highlights the quality of academic programs and the variety of student extracurricular activities.

There is a gallery of 50 photos that feature the Café 780 court yard, the iconic arch that overlooks the campus entrance off state Route 780 and the Larry R. Pollock Fountain, as well as a myriad of campus students. To give the courtyard a more intimate feel, a pergola was installed by the side entrance of the courtyard. Also known as an arbor, a pergola is a type of gazebo that features a shaded sitting area of vertical posts and cross-beams supporting an open lattice. The lattice will be covered with woody vines. The courtyard also features a fire pit, along with new furniture and benches. Chancellor Kevin Snider utilizes the pit for a series of fireside chats with campus students.

To experience the interactive virtual tour, visit www.nk.psu.edu/virtualtour

For videos about the campus, visit http://iyt.psu.edu/newkensington?utm_source=psnk&utm_medium=homepage&utm

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

Penn State New Kensington's power-hitting catcher Rachel Lojas is expected to contend for the conference home run title. The junior co-captain also hits for average and is solid behind the plate.

New faces dominate line-up as
team prepares for Saturday's season-opener

2 p.m., Saturday, April 2, away, Penn State Beaver

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. – Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw famously said, “Youth is wasted on the young.” Penn State New Kensington softball coach Mike Marsili might take issue with the Nobel prize-winning polemicist.

Marsili is counting on young players as he will field a starting team of six freshmen when the New Kensington Lions open conference play at 2 p.m., Saturday, April 2, with a doubleheader at Penn State Beaver in Monaca, Pennsylvania. The old French proverb, “Youth must be served,” is a more appropriate aphorism for the coach.

“This year's team has a lot of new faces, but the players have experience playing in high school and on travel teams,” Marsili said. “I am expecting us to be competitive in every game and finish in the top three in the conference.”

Beginning his eighth year as head coach, which makes him the dean of campus coaches, Marsili is expecting the eclectic collection of first-year players to return New Kensington to a berth in the Penn State University Athletic Conference playoffs. The team has missed the post-season during the last three years.

Pitching and defense have been the hallmarks of all Marsili's teams, and both attributes will be on display this season. A veteran catcher will anchor the defense, which will feature rookies on the mound, at shortstop and second base and in centerfield.

“Our strength will be our pitching and our defense up the middle,” Marsili said. “We have a good pitcher, and we have good defensive players. We know which players will be out there, but we have to strengthen a couple of positions. The defense is coming along, but it is still a work in progress."

On offense, Marsili boasts speed, so bunting and stealing will help generate runs. The team also projects power, so three-run homers can help close out games.

“We haven't seen enough live pitching yet to improve, but that will change soon,” Marsili said. “We have good contact hitters and good bunters who can lay it down for base hits.”

The fledging squad will be led by a trio of veterans -- junior catcher Rachel Lojas (Norwin High School), junior outfielder Melanie Campbell and senior first baseman Sabrina Johns. Lojas, an all-conference selection in 2014, sat out last season because of shoulder surgery. The co-captain will provide leadership, as well as stability behind the plate. Lojas hits for both power and average.

“Rachel will bat cleanup and should contend for the conference lead in home runs,” Marsili said. “She has the ability to hit the ball out of the ballpark on any given at bat.”

Johns hit .359 as a freshman third baseman before fracturing her wrist during her sophomore year and sitting out the 2014 season. Last year, she worked on her degree at University Park before returning to the New Kensington campus to finish her administration of justice studies. She moves across the diamond this year. Injuries also slowed down the progress of Campbell, who broke her finger in spring training during her freshman year.

“Sabrina brings a nice bat and will play first base, and Melanie will start in right field and serve as a co-captain,” Marsili said. “We need the players to adjust to their new positions as soon as possible. As with most years, the key to the season is to keep the starters healthy.”

The bulk of offensive and defensive responsibilities will be spread among newcomers. Stephanie Fritzuis will handle the pitching load. She has good control and throws a variety of pitches.

“Stephanie will be our number one pitcher,” Marsili said. “She should keep us in most games and just needs to gain confidence.”

Brittany Wolford and Becca Wilhelm will handle shortstop and second base, respectively. The Burrell graduates have played together for a few years and are comfortable with each other. Wolford can also play outfield. Shianne Bezts will cover the hot corner at third base and serve as the number two pitcher.

Madi Graham, a transfer student from Butler County Community College, will patrol centerfield and bat in the middle of the line-up. Allison Nicklaus, expected to be one of the better hitters on the team, is slated for left field. A versatile player, Nicklaus gives Marsili various options.

“We are counting on Madi to drive in runs and take control of the outfield,” Marsili said “Allison has some good pop with the bat and will play wherever she is needed.”

Marsili is anxious for the regular season to get under way. The team had preseason training in Florida during the campus’ spring break, March 7-11. The New Kensington Lions went 1-5 down south, but the trip provided an opportunity for the players to groove their swings and stabilize the defense.

“We went down to Florida as a group of individuals and came back as a team,” Marsili said. “Hopefully, they will convert the bonding time and field time to production on the field during conference play.”

After the Beaver games, the New Kensington Lions travel the next day to McKeesport for a noon doubleheader at Penn State Greater Allegheny. The first PSUAC home game is a noon doubleheader on Sunday, April 10, against Penn State Worthington Scranton at the Lions' new home, Alcoa Field. The newly renovated field is located about five minutes from campus on the property of Alcoa Technical Center at the intersection of state Rt. 780 and White Cloud Road in Upper Burrell.

Marsili's squad is set to play five doubleheaders at Alcoa Field. The 16-game schedule features all Penn State University Athletic Conference games. The original season opener March 20, at Westmoreland County Community College and home opener March 26, against Southern State Community College were canceled.

“We will eventually be a good team; I'm just not sure how long it will take for everything to come together,” Marsili said. “As with most teams, we will go as far as our pitching takes us.”

For the softball roster and full schedule, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/39082.htm

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

Candee Christy, administrative support assistant to Chancellor Kevin Snider, is Penn State New Kensington's 12th "We Are" recipient.

Candee Christy’s selection expands
campus honorees to a dozen

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. – In Greek mythology, Hercules is known for 12 labours* of adventure and strength. In Penn State lore, the New Kensington campus is known for 12 recipients* of “We Are” pride and commitment.

With the March 21 announcement that Candee Christy, administrative support assistant for Chancellor Kevin Snider, is a “We Are!” winner, a dozen campus denizens have been recognized for performing Herculean feats of service to the campus, University and community.

“We Are!,” a weekly feature of the daily email publication Penn State Today, is a University-wide initiative that was launched in 2015 to provide students, faculty and staff with a platform to give kudos to fellow Penn Staters for work that goes above and beyond their job duties or responsibilities.

Christy’s nominator wrote: "Candee is the staff assistant to the chancellor and so much more. She works behind the scenes of many campus events making sure things run smoothly. Candee should be recognized for her willingness to help anyone and everyone in the Penn State New Kensington community."

The Lower Burrell resident, who earned an associate degree in Secretarial Science, from New Kensington Commerical, joined the campus community in 2004 as staff assistant in Continuing Education. She moved to the Development Office in 2006, before taking on responsibilities of the Chancellor’s office in 2008, when Snider replaced the retiring Larry Pollock as chancellor.

In her position, she is responsible for all aspects of the chancellor's work for the campus, from supporting events to coordinating  the chancellor's schedule. A common thread in all three of her campus positions is working with students.

“The favorite part of my job is helping students,” Christy said. “We have the best students, and I love it when I hear how successful they have become.”

Christy is the 12th staff member from the New Kensington campus to receive the honor in the past 14 months. Nancy Miller, co-director of continuing education, started the We Are! onslaught in February 2015. She was followed by Corinne Coulson, enrollment specialist, Kevin Churik, information technology generalist, Jennifer Marino, assistant director for financial aid, Danielle DeStefano, assistant director of enrollment management, Susan Dale, administrative support assistant in the Office of Academic Affairs, Nancy Burns, staff assistant VI for the Office of Enrollment Management, Karen Harlan, multimedia specialist, Lauren Blum, assistant to the director of student affairs, Diana Hill, administrative support assistant and Jim Shields, career services coordinator. All were nominated by campus colleagues or students for personifying Penn State’s commitment of service to the community.

Snider praised the recipients for shining the Penn State spotlight on New Kensington. He encouraged the campus community to recommend other colleagues for the honor.

“The word is getting out about what a great campus and community we are,” Snider said. “It's a great way to continue to get our fantastic community recognized outside the campus.”

A “We Are” candidate could be a staff member taking extra steps to make sure a project is completed, a student organizing a charitable event, an administrator doing something special for employees, or a faculty member taking additional time to advise students.

To nominate a “We Are” candidate from the campus community, visit http://news.psu.edu/WeAre

To view “We Are” stories, visit http://news.psu.edu/story/359184/2015/06/01/we-are-thankful-these-penn-staters

 Hercules slaying the Hydra was the second of his 12 labours.
The painting is by Antonio Pollaiolo. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.

*The Twelve Labours of Hercules
1. Slay the Nemean Lion,
2. Kill the Hydra,
3. Capture the Cerynean Stag,
4. Cage the Erymanthian Boar,
5. Clean the Augean Stables,
6. Kill the Stymphalian Birds,
7. Claim the Mares of Diomedes,
8. Pen the Cretan Bull,
9. Take the Girdle of Hippolyte, the Amazon,
10. Capture Geryon's Cattle,
11. Fetch the Golden Apples of Hesperides, and
12. Capture Cerberus from the Gates of Tartaros.

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

Penn State New Kensington radiological sciences students, left to right, Hannah Smith, Allison Beattie and Danielle Wertz, placed second in the student research competition in March at the PSRT professional conference.

Radiological Sciences students win
poster and image analysis competitions

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. -- A team of radiological sciences students from Penn State New Kensington gained experience and earned honors March 19 at the annual Pennsylvania Society of Radiologic Technologists (PSRT) conference in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.

Debra Majetic, coordinator of the radiological sciences program, and Marcia Curler, instructor in radiological sciences, escorted 16 second-year students to the annual meeting. The upperclassmen will graduate in August with an associate degree and will be eligible for examination with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) for national professional certification.

“The students were able to network with prospective employers and other students, listen to awesome speakers, meet with a representative from the American Society of Radiologic Technologists and attend the business meeting of the PSRT,” said Majetic, who is a graduate of the campus’ Radiological Sciences program and holds a master’s degree in higher education from Geneva College.

The purpose of the trip was two-fold. Students had the opportunity to meet with soon-to-be colleagues and to compete with fellow students in various categories – research presentations, image analysis and Techni-Bowl.

“I thought the conference was very nice, and I learned a lot from the speakers,” Lauren Lizak said. “I really enjoyed the service learning speaker the most. I think that is a great idea, and we should take it into consideration for our program as well.”

Lizak and Carl Tutak were impressed with the board's review session. The session included a review of the five sections of the required ARRT national certification exam for graduates of radiological sciences programs. A practice exam provided a bellwether for the prospective technologists.

“The test was kind of an eye opener on what I really need to look over, which is mostly physics,” Tutak said.

Three of Majectic’s students -- Hannah Smith, Danielle Wertz and Brooke Cass -- were honored for their performance on the mock exam, which featured a review of procedures presented during the session. Eighty-two students took the test, and the top 18 were recognized at the conference.

Mystee Kustes won the top award for the image analysis contest. After viewing several images, students wrote down their choice of pathologies. Kustes’ selection, “Pneumoperitoneum,” won the competition. Pneumoperitoneum is the abnormal presence of air or gas in the stomach.

Allison Beattie, Smith and Wertz placed second in the research competition. Their poster presented the argument of 2D versus 3D mammography.

“I was really happy we got second place in the poster competition,” said Beattie, a recipient of a New Kensington Campus Endowment Fund scholarship. “I felt that our topic was something new and focused on our future in mammography.

Garnering awards and accolades at the society meetings is becoming a tradition for Majetic’s students. In the past seven years, the up-and-coming radiographers have won each of the competitive categories, including Techni-Bowl, a quiz-style competition featuring questions about radiological science.

"The opportunity for our students not only to participate in the competition but also to attend the state meeting was invaluable," said Majetic, who joined the campus faculty in 2005. "Imaging professionals recognize the importance of networking with others, sharing new technologies, promoting the profession and supporting education and new technologies entering the field."

Radiological Sciences program
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. Imaging professionals provide a wide range of services using technology founded on theoretical knowledge and scientific concepts.

As a part of the health care team, radiographers provide patient care using safe radiation practices, operate sophisticated technical equipment and make independent judgments and decisions daily. Radiological services are offered in a variety of settings such as hospitals, health care facilities, physicians' offices, research centers and equipment sales offices. Careers in radiography offer flexible work schedules that accommodate various lifestyles and employment needs.

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, academic- and clinical-based curriculum begins in the fall of each year and requires 24 consecutive months of study, including summer sessions.

“In the past two years, the certification examination pass rate for our graduates was 100 percent,” Majetic said. “The five-year average is 96 percent.”

For more about the radiological sciences program, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/Degrees/44310.htm

Pennsylvania Society of Radiologic Technologists
PSRT is an affiliate of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT). An organized group of radiologic technologists who live in a specific region or state, affiliates share a common mission and purpose with ASRT.

Affiliates provide services for their members, such as conferences, grass-roots networking, social networking, leadership opportunities and community awareness in support of local radiologic technologists.

"One of the greatest strengths of ARST is its 54 affiliate societies, which represent the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Philadelphia, Puerto Rico and Guam,” said Majetic.

The local society supports student research to expand knowledge of the radiology profession.

For more about PSRT, visit http://psrtonline.org/

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

"Practice What We Preach" exhibit
showcases the works of local art instructors

April 1-30, Campus Art Gallery

“I am an artist who teaches. I am a teacher who is an artist. From the time I was very small, I drew pictures; this ability allowed the world to define me as an artist. At the time, I didn't know any artists, but when I met my first art teacher in elementary school, I saw a teacher who made art all day, and I was smitten. What better life could there be than to have all the crayons, paint, pencils, paper and clay to express myself with other people every day?” -- Christy Culp, art teacher, Deer Lakes High School

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. -- After high school students exhibited what they learned in art classes in March, their teachers get to show that they can “walk the walk” as well as “talk the talk” during April, in the Penn State New Kensington Art Gallery.

"Practicing What We Teach" is the theme of the display by high school teachers that runs April 1-30. Regional Art Teachers, a group of area high school instructors are showcasing their artistic talents with a multi-media exhibit that includes paintings, photographs and sculptures.

Christy Culp, an art teacher at Deer Lakes High School, is one of the teachers who is exhibiting in the gallery. A ceramic and pottery artist, Culp uses her artistic talents to connect with students who want to express themselves through art. She guides them through materials and techniques that allow them to grow as artists and “understand themselves as human beings.”

“I try to work on a piece of art or bring sculptures and pottery I have made for the students to see,” said Culp, who has been teaching since 1997. “Modeling artistic behavior is important for students. Witnessing the process helps them understand how art making happens -- from struggling with a concept, struggling with materials, to assessing the final outcome."  The budding artists also ask about making a living by selling art. Culp, who runs a small pottery business, discusses aspects of owning an artistic concern, such as the time and costs involved and the value of an artwork.

“These classroom experiences provide real-world examples of art making, business and community,” Culp said.

Sponsored by the Alle-Kiski Arts Consortium, an organization of local educators dedicated to bringing performing and visual artists to area students, the exhibit features artwork by teachers from four public school districts (Deer Lakes, Highlands, Kiski Area, New Kensington-Arnold) and a private school (St. Joseph’s).

The exhibit is free to the public. Gallery hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., weekdays and noon to 5 p.m., weekends.

Last month, art by the teachers’ students was featured in the gallery. The theme, “Portraiture and Faces” was interwoven in each school’s display. More than 500 two- and three-dimensional pieces, including paintings, drawings, sculpture and jewelry were hung salon-style, a European technique that dates back to the 17th century. Salon-style features a single exhibition room with artwork covering all the walls in a collage-like pattern.

“My role as a teacher is to allow room for growth, allow students to find and ask the questions and along the way find their own joy in the process,” Culp said. “My students know that I am passionate about making art, and how it brings joy.”

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

Danielle DeStefano, right, assistant director of enrollment management at Penn State New Kensington, talks with incoming scholarship recipients during the annual Scholarship Breakfast March 18 at Oakmont Country Club.

New students breakfast with faculty and staff

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. -- Penn State New Kensington scholarship receptions are semiannual events that bring together scholarship recipients, faculty, staff, and donors. The socials give undergraduates and incoming students who received New Kensington campus scholarships a chance to meet their professors and benefactors face to face.

The spring reception was held March 18 at Oakmont Country Club. More than 200 freshmen were awarded scholarships for the 2016 fall semester. Campus faculty and staff met with the soon-to-be Penn Staters and their families in a room overlooking the famous ninth hole at the world-renowned country club, which hosts this year’s U.S. Open.

Patty Brady, director of enrollment management, welcomed the guests, and Kevin Snider, chancellor of the campus, was the keynote speaker. Snider spoke of the quality of a Penn State education and the small-campus experience. He also noted that scholarships are a critical component of the campus' mission.

“Scholarships are the lifeblood of the campus’ history and its vibrant future,” Snider said. “Without the thoughtful support of our scholarship donors, many of our finest moments and educational opportunities for students would not exist.”

Marissa Russo, a senior information sciences and technology major, and Brandon Burchette, a sophomore in the Communications program, talked about the importance of scholarships as a part of their college experiences. A networking session followed the speakers’ remarks.

The campus and University awarded more than $538,00,000 in scholarships to current students for the fall semester. More than 220 students received an average of $2,400 per award.

The scholarships are supported by $304,000 in private donations and $234,000 in University funds. Based on a multitude of factors, including academic achievement, financial need and diversity, the scholarships were distributed to deserving students from cities and towns from across the commonwealth and the country. The campus has 54 scholarship endowments, annual gifts and program awards.

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

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

Penn State New Kensington junior Phillip Marra finished sixth in the 184-pound division at the NCWA national championships.

First two-time All-America wrestling selection

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. -- Sophomore Phillip Marra became Penn State New Kensington’s first two-time All-America wrestler March 11 at the National Collegiate Wrestling Association national championships in Kissimmee, Florida.

Marra finished sixth in the 184-pound division. Last year, he was runner-up in the 174-pound division. The top eight of each weight class earn the national honor.

Marra suffered his first defeats of the year at the nationals. Ranked 18th going into the championships, the Lower Burrell resident worked his way through the bracket to procure All-America honors.

He ended the season with a 15-3 record. A year ago, he finished with a 26-1 record, best in the history of the campus.

A product of the storied Burrell High School wrestling program, Marra is the second New Kensington wrestler accorded All-America status. His former teammate, sophomore Dean Lusk, merited the distinction in 2014, finishing fifth at the nationals in the 285-pound class. As a freshman, Marra just missed the honor by taking ninth in the 149-pound class.

Although a national title eluded him, Marra can take solace in the two conference titles he defended during the post-season. He captured the Penn State University Athletic Conference title in February and the Mid-East Conference championship in early March. The top PSUAC finishers are invited to the mid-east regional, which is a stepping stone to the NCWA national tournament.

Head coach Francis Healy, in his second year at the helm of the campus wrestling program, continues to produce national contenders. During his inaugural season, three student-athletes qualified for the NCWA championships. Healy was named the campus' Coach of the Year in 2015.

The campus wrestling program was resuscitated in 2011 after laying dormant for 35 years. In the past five years, 11 wrestlers have qualified for the nationals. Marra’s three appearances is the campus standard.

Wrestling was a staple of the campus athletic program in the early 1970s. Bob Darby, former athletic director and coach, started the original program in 1971. It was disbanded in 1975. Jim Giunta, who wrestled at the New Kensington campus during the early days of the program, is the founder and executive director of the NCWA.

NCWA is the governing body for collegiate club wrestling teams in the United States and Canada. It is divided into seven regional conferences: Mid-East; Northeast; Mid-Atlantic; Southeast; North Central; Southwest; and West Coast. The New Kensington Lions compete in the 18-member Mid-East region that includes programs from the University of Pittsburgh, Rutgers University, University of Delaware and Lehigh University.

Penn State New Kensington
Post-Season Wrestling
(2011-present)

NCWA All-America
Year, Participant (weight class), National Ranking
2016: Phillip Marra (184), 6th
2015: Phillip Marra (174), 2nd
2014: Dean Lusk (285), 5th

NCWA National Championships Participants
Year, Participant, National Ranking (weight class), Result
2016: Phillip Marra, 18th (144), 6th
2015: Phillip Marra, 9th (174), 2nd
Dean Lusk, 5th (285), 9th; Trey Turnblacer, 54th (235), DNP
2014: Dean Lusk, 5th (285), 5th
Phillip Marra, 9th (149), 9th; Colin Austin, 21st (165), 20th
2013: John Dopplehauer, 18th (285), 24th
James Melnyk, 63rd, (149), 24th
2011- Lou Gardone (197), 4th, forfeit; Mark Irwin (149), forfeit

Conference Champions
Year, Name (weight class) Conference
2016: Phillip Marra (184), Mid-East, PSUAC
2015: Phillip Marra (174), Mid-East, PSUAC
Dean Lusk (285), PSUAC;
2014: Dean Lusk (285), Mid-East Conference
2012-Matt Kepple (184), Penn State University Athletic Conference
2011- Lou Gardone (197), Mid-East Conference

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

Survivor Yolanda Avram Willis will talk about her Holocaust ordeal April 6, at Penn State New Kensington's "Holocaust, In Remembrance" program. Photo by post-gazette.com and courtesy of Bing Images.

First-hand account of atrocities

"Holocaust, In Remembrance"
Noon, Wednesday, April 6, Conference Center

“I was one of the lucky ones. I was a hidden child, like the famous hidden child Anne Frank. I was not hidden in an attic or a bunker. I was hidden in plain sight passing as a Christian.”—Yolanda Avram Willis

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. -- Survivor Yolanda Avram Willis of Pittsburgh gives a first-hand account of the atrocities of the Holocaust at noon, Wednesday, April 6, in the Penn State New Kensington Conference Center.  Avram Willis is the guest speaker of annual campus program, "Holocaust, in Remembrance." The program is free to the public.

Born in 1934 in Salonika, Greece, Avram Willis was a hidden child during the Holocaust. When the Germans occupied Greece in 1940, she was spirited to the Greek island of Crete and taken in by a Christian family, who put their lives in jeopardy by providing succor to Jews. Given the name Julia and posing as a Christian girl, Avram Willis remained hidden but out in the open for three and a half years until Athens was liberated by the American, British, and French forces.

After the war, Avram Willis attended the American College in Athens, and then came to the United States to study at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She earned a master’s degree in chemistry and a doctorate in sociology. Her 22-year professional career included positions as manager, educator and consultant. She taught at Carnegie Mellon University.

Avram Willis wrote a book, “A Hidden Child in Greece: Rescue Stories of the Holocaust,” that will be published in the summer by Author House Publishing Company. According to the author, the book is a “thank you” to the grandchildren and great-grandchildren of those who saved her and others. Parts of the book were first published in “Flares of Memory,” the anthology of memoirs composed by survivors in the Pittsburgh area.

The 81-year-old author has three children, two stepchildren and four granddaughters. One granddaughter is named Julia, the name Yolanda used in hiding.

Remembrance program
Lois Rubin, associate professor of English who retired last year, arranges for guest speakers in an effort to educate students about the atrocities of the Holocaust.

Since 1992, Rubin has brought 22 Holocaust survivors to the New Kensington campus to speak in April, the month of Holocaust Remembrance Day. According to the Pittsburgh native, the recollections by speakers such as Avram Willis remind the world of the lesson of respecting the humanity of those who are different.

"I continue to do the program because I think we still need to be mindful of the terrible consequences of hatred and prejudice," said Rubin, who taught at the campus for 30 years. "Time is passing, and members of the World War II generation are aging. In a few years, the survivors of the Holocaust will not be around to tell us their stories in person."

Co-sponsored by Rubin and the Office of Student Affairs, the event usually has a large turnout. Seating is limited and group reservations are recommended.

For information or to make a group reservation, call 724-334-6062.

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

Penn State Laureate Carol Reardon's Battle of Gettysburg tour makes a stop at Penn State New Kensington on April 5. Reardon will discuss the history and heritage of the battle.

Dr. Carol Reardon,
"History versus Heritage: The View from Gettysburg,"

Noon, Tuesday, April 19, Conference Center
Free to the Public

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. -- Penn State Laureate Carol Reardon, the George Winfree Professor of American History at the University Park campus, brings her Battle of Gettysburg campaign to Penn State New Kensington at noon, Tuesday, April 19, in the Conference Center.

Reardon’s talk, "History versus Heritage: The View from Gettysburg," will look at the battle that changed the Civil War through two sets of interpretive lenses -- history and heritage. The lecture is free to the public.

According to Reardon, history is an intellectual force that seeks an objective, all-encompassing interpretation of the past, based on critical analysis of evidence and seeking an objective ideal that people accept as truth. Heritage is an emotion-based force that views the past through lenses that filter, sanitize, select, sentimentalize, self-aggrandize, and promote a political or social agenda far removed from the historical event itself.

“Sometimes history and heritage follow the same path, but often enough they work at odds with each other,” said Reardon, a military historian who specializes in the study of the American Civil War and the Vietnam conflict. “The way we look back on the Battle of Gettysburg, the three bloodiest days in Pennsylvania's military history, can help us understand the difference between history and heritage, how those forces play out even today around such controversies as the flying of the Confederate flag, and underscore why it is essential that we recognize the difference.”

In addition to the lecture, Reardon will meet with campus students in the Civil War America class that is taught by Craig Hammond, associate professor of history. Reardon will discuss how contemporary Americans remember race, slavery, and the Civil War.

For more information on Reardon’s talk, contact Hammond at jch24@psu.edu

Carol Reardon
Reardon, who holds a doctorate in history from the University of Kentucky, joined the Penn State faculty in 1996. She was named Winfree professor in 2010. In addition to her professorship, Reardon serves as faculty associate of the George and Ann Richards Civil War Era Center. Based at the University Park campus, the center serves as a resource for interpreting and reflecting on life in 19th-century America.

An author of numerous publications, Reardon’s scholarship includes the award-winning "Pickett's Charge in History and Memory." In the book, she uses the famous Confederate assault at Gettysburg to explore the ways in which the power of memory can shape and, over time, even reshape perceptions of important events.

In 2007, Reardon received the George W. Atherton Award for Excellence in Teaching, the highest teaching award given by Penn State. Two New Kensington campus faculty are recipients of the Atherton award -- William Hamilton, assistant professor of biology in 2003 and Maria Franco de Gomez, instructor in Spanish, in 2011. Franco de Gomez retired in 2013.

Penn State Laureate
An honorary position established in 2008, Penn State Laureate is a full-time University faculty member in the humanities or fine arts. Assigned half-time for one academic year, the laureate brings an enhanced level of social, cultural, artistic and human perspective and awareness to a broad array of audiences. The highly visible representative of Penn State appears regularly at Penn State campus and community events throughout the commonwealth.

Reardon is using her year as university laureate to encourage informed reflection and open dialogue on war, peace and remembrance.

“As a military historian, I am interested in the causes, conduct, cost and consequences of wars as well as the lessons we learn or -- just as important -- fail to learn from these transformational events,” Reardon said.

The eighth Penn State laureate, Reardon succeeded Susan Russell, associate professor of theatre. Previous laureates were: Kenneth Womack, associate dean for Academic Affairs and professor of English at Penn State Altoona; Chris Staley, distinguished professor of ceramic art; Linda Miller, professor of English at Penn State Abington; Robin Becker, professor of English and women's studies; Anthony Leach, professor of music; and inaugural laureate Kim Cook, professor of music in cello.

For more about Reardon and Penn State laureates, visit http://news.psu.edu/story/355181/2015/04/29/academics/military-historian-appointed-penn-state-laureate

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

Alle-Kiski Area Hope Center and Penn State New Kensington are the co-sponsors of the "Hope for Peace Rally" at the campus on April 15.

“Serving Victims, Building Trust, Restoring Hope”

11 a.m. Friday, April 15, Conference Center.

Upper Burrell, Pa. -- In honor of National Crime Victims Rights Week, Penn State New Kensington and the Alle-Kiski Area Hope Center will co-sponsor the “Hope for Peace Rally” at 11 a.m., Friday, April 15, in the campus Conference Center. The event is free to the public.

“Serving Victims, Building Trust, Restoring Hope” is the theme, and domestic violence is the target of the rally. Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behavior by a spouse or partner with the intention to gain control over an intimate person or others residing in the same domestic setting. The victims of the abuse are usually women and sometimes children. Domestic violence occurs when the abuser believes that abuse is acceptable, justified, or unlikely to be reported.

Guest speakers will include survivors, advocates, educators and students. They will talk about the physical, emotional, social and moral safety of individuals and provide information on breaking the cycle of violence. The presenters will define the various types of abuse and help victims formulate safety plans, such as keeping a list of important phone numbers -- police, domestic violence hotline, hospitals -- with them at all times.

The Hope Center is a nonprofit organization of social change. The center advocates the elimination of domestic violence through intervention, prevention and collaboration. It seeks to change society’s behaviors, values, and social institutions that create oppression.

National Crime Victims' Rights Week, April 10–16, is an annual observance that underscores the importance of early intervention and victim services in establishing trust with victims, which in turn begins to restore their hope for healing and recovery. The week is marked by an award ceremony on April 12 in Washington, D.C. Individuals and organizations that demonstrate outstanding service in supporting victims and victim services are recognized by the Office for Victims of Crime, which is administered by the U.S. Department of Justice.

For more information on the campus rally, call 724-224-1100.

 Susan Dale, staff assistant for Academic Affairs at
Penn State New Kensington, helps a student apply another green handprint to a Stand for State poster as a show of support during the start of the awareness campaign in January.

Campus takes on sexual assault
The New Kensington campus also is combating sexual assaults through a new initiative, Stand for State. The University-wide effort promotes bystander intervention and its place in preventing sexual and relationship violence. Bystander intervention is based on the fact that people make decisions and continue behaviors based on the reactions they receive from others. The program promotes a sense of responsibility, which gives the bystander motivation to step in and take action.

The culmination of two years of planning, Stand for State uses a bystander intervention curriculum created by Green Dot, a national leader in violence prevention education. Green Dot is built on the premise that in order to reduce harm in a community, a cultural shift is necessary -- that each person can play a role in creating a safe environment. A critical mass of people needs to engage in new behaviors that will make violence and harm, called red dots, less likely in local communities. Red dots represent a moment when words, choices, or behaviors contribute to sexual assault, dating and domestic violence, stalking, bullying or abuse. The new behaviors are called green dots. A green dot is pulling a friend out of a high-risk situation, checking on a colleague who you are worried about, or telling someone to back off. Simply put, a green dot is an individual choice at any given moment to make the community safe. The key tactics for intervening and removing someone from harm’s way are Green Dot’s Three Ds: direct, delegate and distract.

Seven staff and administrators from the New Kensington campus joined 200 of their counterparts from across the University recently for Green Dot's bystander intervention training, where they learned techniques to combat sexual misconduct. The workshops focused on providing participants with the skills to recognize potentially problematic situations, step in and diffuse the situations when appropriate, and seek help when needed.

The campus trainers include: Wesley Sheets, public safety manager; Paula Dove; administrative support assistant for Student Affairs; Susan Dale, administrative support assistant for Academic Affairs; Tracy Gustafson, administrative support assistant for Athletics; Sarah Conte, assistant coordinator of academic and career services; Theresa Bonk, director of student affairs; and Lauren Blum, assistant to the director of student affairs. The trainers will implement bystander intervention workshops for student leaders.

New Kensington kicked off the movement in January with a weeklong awareness campaign. The next phase of the campaign is bystander intervention for campus students. The session is slated from 1 to 4 p.m., April 15, following the talk on domestic violence.

While the Bystander Intervention is initially focused on sexual and relationship violence, it will be expanded to include bystander intervention for mental health-related issues, bias-related incidents, and risky drinking and drug use.

To RSVP for the training session or for more information, contact Lauren Blum at 724-334-6063 or ldb14@psu.edu

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

A traditional African dress to be worn on special occasions was handmade by the mother of former Penn State New Kensington student Thierry Kengne, a native of Cameroon. The elephant and bowl were gifts to the campus by other international students.

Dancing and singing, arts and crafts,
bilingual readings highlight family event

10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m., Saturday, April 9, Athletics Center

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. – The diversity of Penn State New Kensington comes to the forefront at the first International Children’s Festival from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, April 9, in the campus Athletics Center. The theme of the festival is “Different Colors, Different Cultures, One World.”

Students, faculty and staff will showcase their cultures and heritages through singing and dancing performances, hands-on arts and crafts exhibits, clothing displays, bilingual readings and a bouncy ball court. The festival is geared to children, students and parents of all ages. The event is free to the public.

Children will receive a colorful wrist band and a “passport,” which will be stamped with a star at each of the seven continents they can visit. Participants can get their names written in Chinese. Flags from all over the world will be on display. In addition, kids can take selfies with famous landmarks from around the world, such as the Eifel Tower, Great Wall of China and Niagara Falls.

Performances and workshops will include Taiko drumming and Steel Dragon Lion dancing from Japan, dancing from India and the Middle East, drumming and dancing performances from Africa, and a sing-a-long from Malawi, a country in southeast Africa. Wati Kumwenda, a second-year biomedical engineering technology major and native of Malawi, will lead the Karaoke-style event. Youngsters can get into the rhythm by learning to salsa at a dance workshop.

Hands-on arts, crafts and games from around the world, organized by JoAnn Wesolosky, an instructor for the campus' Kids in College summer program, will feature how to create a Pysanky egg from Eastern Europe, origami, the art of paper folding, from Japan, a paper mosaic from the Middle East, and or a folk art bookmark from America. Kids and adults can design their own Guatemalan Worry Doll, Australian Aboriginal Dot Art or Mexican Piñata.

One of the craft tables is sponsored by Melba Amador, instructor in Spanish, and the campus’ Spanish Club. Amador joined the faculty in August and brought a wealth of Latino, Chicano and Latin America culture to the campus.

The “Book Nook” sessions will run throughout the day. Children's stories will be read in four languages – Spanish, German, Chinese and English – by campus students and faculty, including Chinese by Yang Zu, associate professor of business, and English by Janet Knott, nursing program coordinator. Clothing and fashion by students and faculty will highlight a variety of heritages. The campus racquetball court will house a giant global ball for kids to toss around.

Diversity is the cornerstone of Chancellor Kevin Snider’s administration. Since he was appointed in 2008, the campus has become more diversified, experiencing an increase in international and African-American students and faculty. Nineteen percent of faculty and 12 percent of the student body identify themselves as of international or African-American descent.

The festival is sponsored by the campus’ Office of Student Affairs, Diversity Team, and Student Government Association. Although most campus activities tend to favor the “traditional age” student, those from 18 to 24 years old, the children’s festival was developed with the focus on adult learners and military veterans. This group comprises approximately 25 percent of the campus student population. Many work full time while supporting a family.

“One of the main reasons for this family-friendly event is in support of the adult learners on campus,” said Theresa Bonk, director of student affairs. “Many of our events are geared towards traditional age students. We wanted to encourage and support our older students with more family activities.”

For more information on the festival, call 724-334-6062 or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/46481.htm#NEWS46481

                
Children will receive passports to visit the seven continents.    Kids can throw the world across the room with the globe bouncy ball.

Schedule of Activities

Live Performances and Dance/Singing Workshops

11:00 a.m. – main floor
Indian and Middle Eastern Belly dancing and interactive workshop (Anjoli Soi)
11:30 a.m. – dance studio
Sing-a-long from Malawi (Watipatso Kumwenda)
11:45 a.m. – main floor
Japanese Taiko Drum Demonstration (Robert Reams and Missy Jones)
12:15 p.m. – main gym floor
Steel Dragon Lion Dance – Chinese traditional dragon dance performance
12:30 p.m. – dance studio
Salsa dancing for kids (Los Sabrosos)
1:15 p.m. – main floor
Ibeji - African Drum and Dance performance

Bilingual Book Nook Reading

10:45 a.m.
“The Bear Snores On” read by Yang Xu (Chinese & English)
11:05 a.m. 
“Finding Winnie: The True Story of the World’s Most Famous Bear” read by Janet Knott (English)
11:30 a.m.
“The Bear Snores On” read by Yang Xu (Chinese and English)
11:50 a.m.
“The Cat in the Hat” read by Jake Boney (Spanish and English)
12:15 p.m.
“Me on the Map” read by Sarah Shellaby (English)
12:40 p.m.
“Giraffes Can’t Dance” read by Ryan Breen (German and English)
1:05 p.m.
“Fiona’s Lace,” an Irish story read by Janet Knott (English)
1:25 p.m.
“The Cat in the Hat” read by Jake Boney (Spanish & English)
1:45 p.m.
“Giraffes Can’t Dance” read by Ryan Breen (German & English)

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

Penn State New Kensington's Research and Creative Exposition, 1 to 3 p.m., Tuesday, April 12, draws students, recent alumni and prospective employers to the campus.

Career Day helps recruitment for internships and jobs

1-3 p.m., Tuesday, April 12, Athletics Center

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. -- From the effects of political campaign advertising, to the benefits of 3D mammography, to the future of genetic engineering, students at Penn State New Kensington explored a variety of issues during the fall and spring semesters. The results of their research will be unveiled publicly at the 12th annual Research and Creative Exposition from 1 to 3 p.m., Tuesday, April 12, in the campus Athletics Center.

Students will display their research as posters at the innovative event. The exposition provides students, under the guidance of a faculty adviser, with the opportunity to conduct research, draw conclusions and present their information in a public setting. This year, 57 students researched 37 projects under the direction of 14 faculty members.

Posters are designed to convey the project's significance to scholars in the field and potential significance to the general public. The students' written research is translated into a poster and presented in public. Participants are judged on content, display and oral defense of their project.

Career Day
In conjunction with the expo, Penn State New Kensington will host the sixth annual Career Day from noon to 3 p.m., in the Athletics Center. Career Day complements the expo by creating new opportunities for the students and faculty to build stronger contacts with local industries through sharing of career information while also highlighting the campus' numerous research and creative activities.

Representatives from more than 30 companies will discuss career options, internships and job opportunities for current students and recent graduates. Organizations attending Career Day represent a variety of fields, including business, engineering, science, information technology, psychology, marketing, administration of justice, communications, finance, accounting, social services and human services. The campus faculty is encouraged to attend as companies will focus on career paths within their organizations that relate to academic disciplines.

"The combination of the Career Day with the Research and Creative Expo creates a major annual event for the campus while giving students significant opportunities to present their best work to local professionals and employers," said Jim Shields, career services coordinator at the campus. "At the same time, it's another chance to showcase Penn State New Kensington as a vital resource for local communities and businesses."

Career Day is more than just a job and internship fair. The goals for the event are three-fold: career information-sharing with students; networking among students, faculty and local businesses; and recruitment for internships and jobs. A directory with more information about opportunities with each employer will be available before the event to help students prepare for their interactions with the representatives.

The free event is open to Penn State students and recent graduates. For more information, contact Jim Shields, career services coordinator, at 724-334-6095 or jshields@psu.edu

2016 Student Projects

Faculty Mentor, Student(s), Project Name

Faculty Mentor: Abhinav Aima
Laura Gensamer, Isabella Bordonaro, Danielle Richardson: “Political Campaign Advertising: Symbology,
Super PACs and Candidates”

Faculty Mentor: Debra Majetic
Allison Beattie, Hannah Smith, Danielle Wertz: “Benefits of 3D Mammography vs. 2D”
Carl Tutak, Brooke Cass, Mark Salway, Krista Ferracano: “Image Gently”
Skyeler Balog, Jillian Kuruc, Lauren Lizik: “Radiation Safety for Technologists and Patients”
Sara Rock, Mystee Kustes, Bill Learn: “Radiation in Cellphones”
Alexandra Seaholm, Caitlyn Sherrock, Emily Gluntz: “Portable CR vs. Portable DR”

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Hal Smith
Evan Shaffer: “The Effect of Heat on Modern Computer Processors”

Faculty Mentor: Dr. William Hamilton
Andrew Soxman: "Cancer Vaccines"
Jared Burk: “Extremozymes: Function and Industrial Application”
Ariel Festa: “Why Your Warts Take So Long To Go Away”
Brittany Hydock” “CRISPR: The Future of Genetic Engineering”

Faculty Mentors: Dr. Hamilton and Deborah Sillman
Ashtyn Neibar: “Rabies on a Molecular Level”
Ashton Keeports: “Seretonin Receptors and Their Link to Depression and Its Treatment”

Faculty Mentor: Joan Kowalski
Evan West: “Dynamics of a Cart Moving Around a Loop”
Ryan Breen: "Virtual Reality: Tangible Applications in a Virtual World"
Ashley Worlds: “The Benefits of Tiny House Living”
Dylan McAnallen, James Messina: “Testing Efficiency of Common Truss Types”
Alec Hydock, Zac Smith: “Evaluation of Deformation Caused By Transverse Loads”

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Craig Hammond
Jacob-Lutz: “The Founders of the United States”
Nathaniel Coup: “Is The Constitution Perfect?”

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Jyotsna Kalavar
Christopher Lecnar: “I'm Here, You're There: Stress and Transitional Elder Support”
Carley Carnahan, Shawn Shannon: “Working in Mental Health”

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Kevin Snider
Hon Tak Cheng: “Retiree Learning Program”

Faculty Mentor: Dr. K.R. Bridges
Jonathan McCabe: “The Hedonis Treadmill: How to Stay Happier Longer”

Faculty Mentor: Ronald Land
Justin Dumm: “Everyday Uses of Simple Circuits”

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Richard Harnish
Kirstin Pine: “Does Coloring Have an Effect on Stress?”
Hannah Barnes: “Pictures Versus Words: Iconic Memory”
Brittany Becker: “What Makes a Role Model? Perceptions of Characteristics of Role Models”
Alicia Carson: “The Effects of Noise Pollution on Learning in a College Environment”
Samantha Kovach: “Font Type and Its Effect of Working Memory”
Josh Gump: “Recall for an Event Among College Students”
Latania Thomas: “Music is Magic: How Classical Music Affects Speed and Memory”
Jaclyn Tinnemeyer: “Beauty is as Beauty Does: Cosmetic Influence on Appearance”

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Robert Mathers
Derek Fuhrman: “Using Electrochemical Reduction to Reduce Carbon Dioxide Levels”
Ariel Festa, Brittany Miller, Brittany Hydock: “Improving DNA Delivery with Polymers”

Faculty Mentor: Dr. Rujirutana Mandhachitara
Shannon Josefoski, Alexis Strawoet, Mike Mascaro: “Uber YES or NO: Reality v Expectation”
Vanessa Sacco: “Corporate Social Responsibility: The Progressive Business Model”

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

Penn State New Kensington student Vanessa Sacco cooks the traditional Navajo fry bread as a part of the campus’ spring break trip to the Navajo Nation in Arizona.

Cooking, shoveling, excavating and constructing provide
cultural experiences at Native-American territory in Arizona

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. – It featured Penn State New Kensington student Trevor Guercio building an outhouse. No, it wasn’t an episode of “Dirty Jobs” on the Discovery Channel. It was a spring break trip in Arizona.

Guercio, a sophomore engineering major, joined eight other campus students for a service learning trip to Navajo Nation in northeastern Arizona to learn about the Navajo culture and history. Outhouse development was on the list of activities that were scheduled for the week.

When one of the program planners was looking for a crew supervisor for privy production on a local Navajo ranch, Guercio was chosen to "sweeten the pot" because of his experience with power tools.

“I went on this trip to get a different view of the world around us,” said Guercio. “Now, building an outhouse might not sound fun to most people, but it was one of the best things I have ever done.”

New Kensington students Bill Carney, Lynsie Headley, Shannon Josefoski, Wati Kumwenda, Jon McCabe, Brittany Miller, Vanessa Sacco, Ashley Worlds and Guercio, accompanied by staff members Lauren Blum, assistant to the director of student affairs, and Corinne Coulson, enrollment services specialist, made the journey March 4 to the Native-American governed territory. They performed a variety of functions at a ranch in Tuba City, which is located near the western edge of the 27,000-square-mile Navajo Nation.

The students helped with various construction projects, such as building a sweat lodge and taking part in a traditional Navajo experience. A sweat lodge is a hut made with natural materials that are used for purification ceremonies and prayer. Sacco, a sophomore business marketing major, was tasked with helping build the lodge and another dwelling. In addition, her culinary acumen was brought to the forefront as she assumed chef responsibilities.

“I cooked for the volunteers, and the meals included a lot of Navajo fry bread,” said Sacco, a resident of O’Hara Township who attended Fox Chapel Area High School. “Additionally, I helped build a hogan and clean a sheep corral.”

Fry bread is fried flat dough that can be eaten alone or made into tacos. It is a simple complement to meals. A hogan is the traditional dwelling of the Navajo people. Packed with earth, it is constructed in a variety of shapes with the door facing east to welcome the rising sun as an omen for good wealth and fortune.

The New Kensington students, along with fellow students from Penn State DuBois, participated in other Navajo ceremonies, including making alkaan, also known as Navajo cake. It takes teamwork to create the cake, which is made in a three-foot-wide fire pit. Almost every act of Navajo life is ceremonial in nature, and each act is augmented by songs and prayers.

“The Navajo people have a beautiful way of living,” Sacco said. “They are rich in their culture, which bonds them together to make an admirably loving community."

The nine-day goodwill journey also included sightseeing trips to the Grand Canyon and Dinosaur Tracks, a site in Tuba City where dinosaurs left their footprints over 200 million years ago. Sacco’s favorite excursion was an unplanned hike.

“I experienced the beauty of Arizona in a way that I will never forget,” Sacco said. “There were more steep cliffs than I had anticipated, but the hike forced me to push myself as an individual.”

The final project of the trip was a presentation March 30 to the campus community. The students showed photos and videos while talking about learning and working with the Navajo people. Both Guercio and Sacco, who serve as Lion Ambassadors and orientation leaders when on campus, recommend the trip for other campus students looking forward to expanding their collegiate experience.

“The trip will change you in so many different ways, and each of these changes is so good,” Guercio said. “Navajo people are some of the nicest, kindest and caring people around,”

“Viewing the way that other cultures live provided me with a new perspective on the importance of coexisting,” Sacco said. “The trip changed me as a person. I will always appreciate the Navajo culture, and I plan to refer to its warmth in my time of need.”

Spring break trips to help others is an annual rite for New Kensington students. Two years ago, Washington, D.C. was the destination, and Puerto Rico was the trendy hotspot last year.

 
Trevor Guercio, left, walks the audience through the mastery of rearing an outhouse during a presentation March 30 by Penn State New Kensington students on their experiences in Navajo Nation during spring break.  To watch the presentation in full, click on the video below.

News Contact: Bill Woodard
Alumni and Public Relations
724-334-6049, uxw1@psu.edu

Amy Cyprych, a 2002 graduate of the Information Sciences and Technology program, will share her insights with Penn State New Kensington's Class of 2015.

Amy Cyprych to address 56th graduating class

10:00 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 19, Athletics Center

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. -- Penn State New Kensington alumna Amy Cyprych, director of risk revenue at Highmark, will be the principal speaker at the campus' fall commencement ceremony at 10 a.m., Dec. 19, in the Athletics Center. Thirty graduates will receive baccalaureate and associate degrees.

Cyprych earned a bachelor’s degree in information sciences and technology in 2002. At Highmark, she leads a team of program and project managers and business and data analysts, who support risk adjustment for Medicare Advantage and Affordable Care Act. Cyprych’s responsibilities include facilitating the department’s strategic and tactical planning, leading business process modeling and redesign activities, developing business requirements and test plans, and managing the operational data submission processes. Risk adjustment is a government reimbursement program administered by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

“I am passionate about identifying an organization’s business goals and developing people, process, and technology strategies to support these goals,” said Cyprych, who was a member of the campus' Honors program. “I enjoy bringing cross-functional teams together to accomplish a common goal.”

A frequent guest speaker in IST classes at the campus, Cyprych enjoys interacting with the students and sharing her experiences in the corporate world. In addition, she has sponsored projects for the senior capstone course, and she has participated as an employer partner of the GREAT (Growing Regional Excellence through Experience, Academics, and Training) program for promising students in engineering and technology fields.

New Kensington’s IST program gives students a background in the core technical areas of networking, databases, programming, and system integration. Graduates are trained in key business areas, such as project management and organization theory. The capstone course, “Information Sciences and Technology Integration and Problem Solving,” provides students with real-life problems faced by organizations. Each semester, nationally-known corporations bring campus students on-board as interns for special projects. At the end of the semester, the students present their results to the company, usually in front of its top management. The campus program is one of best in the Penn State system. For more on the program, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/Degrees/44621.htm

The campus’ five-year-old GREAT program matches promising engineering and IST students with local internship opportunities. The GREAT program is a partnership between the New Kensington campus, the Penn State Electro-Optics Center and industries within the greater Pittsburgh region. Students visit companies and attend job/internship fairs. Unlike many other programs, GREAT provides qualified engineering and IST students with the opportunity to build professional skills and experiences starting as soon as their first year at the campus. The advantages of freshmen internships are numerous. For more about the GREAT program, visit www.nk.psu.edu/GREATprogram

Cyprych lives in Lower Burrell with her husband, Jim, and their two pugs, Peyton and Bailey.

For more on commencement, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/academics/graduation.htm

The bowlathon is a family event, and the Lion is on-hand to entertain kids, as well as meet and greet alumni and friends.

Second highest total in event history;
Proceeds benefit campus scholarships and projects

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. –The Penn State New Kensington Alumni Society raised $7,000, the second best total in bowlathon history, at its 14th annual Alumni Bowlathon on March 13.

More than 150 alumni and friends filled Wildlife Lanes to capacity for the New Kensington society event that was only a $100 shy of the bowlathon standard of $7,100 that was set in 2014. Last year, the bowlathon netted $6,600. Proceeds from the 14-year event are plowed back into the society’s endowed scholarship at the campus.

John Spadaro, a 1982 Penn State graduate and a member of the society’s board of directors, has chaired the event since its inception in 2003. Vera Spina Greenwald, president of the society, praised Spadaro and his group of volunteers.

“In any task, you need a good leader, and John fulfills that role wonderfully,” said Greenwald, a 2003 alumnus. “But you also need great volunteers to put their time, money and energy into the event. I want to thank everyone who organized, volunteered, bowled, obtained a sponsor, donated something or convinced their friends and family to give up a Sunday to come out and support a great cause. I am very proud to be part of such a great group of people.”

Thirty-six teams filled the lanes of the Lower Burrell bowling center. The bulk of the proceeds was raised through the generosity of sponsors, led by tournament sponsor, Lanco Electric Inc. In addition, 39 lane sponsors, including 21 “Big Ten” sponsors who donated $100 each and 18 “Nittany Lion” sponsors who donated $50 each, bolstered the numbers.

“To see everything come together on ‘game day’ after months of hard work makes it all worthwhile,” Spadaro said. “It could not happen without our dedicated sponsors who each year come to the table with their donations, which go to a great cause…the students.”

Scholarship Endowment
Proceeds from the bowlathon support the Penn State New Kensington Endowed Scholarship that funds yearly awards to campus undergraduates. In the past five years, the endowment has risen from $51,000 to $109,000, as the society has donated more than $60,000 to the campus and scholarship.

For the current academic year, the New Kensington society awarded a record $5,500 in scholarships to four campus students: Lynsie Headley of Ford City; Alissa Dolensky of Lower Burrell; Adis Juklo of Pittsburgh; and Carley Carnahan of Lower Burrell. Since 1998, the society has awarded $53,000 to 59 campus students.

“Our mission is to represent all current and former students and friends of Penn State through interaction and service to improve the New Kensington campus and the University,” said Spadaro, who attended the campus before completing his bachelor’s degree at University Park. “Penn State New Kensington students are the beneficiaries of the bowlathon proceeds.”

Society on campus
In addition to its scholarship largesse, the alumni organization, which comprises Penn State graduates from the New Kensington and University Park campuses, made a $10,000 gift to campus athletics for equipment for the cardiovascular fitness room. The society also donates $500 annually to the Academic and Student Awards reception, which recognizes more than 100 campus students and their families for their academic and extracurricular accomplishments. The awards ceremony is set for 7 p.m., Friday, April 29, in the Forum Theatre.

The New Kensington society also engages in various campus and alumni projects throughout the year. It interacts with former and current students by sponsoring social events and other networking activities. In addition to raising money, board members are active on campus. They serve as a resource at many student functions, including admissions events, where they to talk with prospective students, and career events, where they discuss job opportunities with soon-to-be graduates.

The society represents more than 7,000 alumni living in the Alle-Kiski Valley. Penn State alumni and friends are encouraged to reconnect with the University and campus by attending monthly meetings. The group meets eight times a year, at 6:30 p.m. on the third Monday in February, April, May, June, August, September, October and November. The meeting venue rotates among the campus, Tarentum Elks Lodge and JG’s Tarentum Station in Tarentum. The next meeting is April 18 at the Elks Lodge.

Chancellor’s Cup
There were five campus teams vying for the Chancellor’s Cup, emblematic of bowling supremacy of Upper Burrell, home town of the campus. The Old Timers, under the tutelage of captain Ron “Bubba” Hileman, successfully defended the cup for a third time, holding off a late charge by Bill Christy’s Juicers, the last team not named Old Timers to hoist the cup. The tournament’s high game of 268 and high set of 671 was turned in by Tim Perroz, a member of the victorious squad that included Steve Perroz, Ryan Perroz, Leo Fitch and Hileman. In the bowlathon’s 14-year history, the Old Timers have quaffed from the goblet a record nine times. The Mean Four own two titles, and Juicers, Fun Fest and Half-Keglers, the inaugural cup holders, are one-win-wonders.

The society's next major fundraiser is the alumni golf scramble that is set for 12:30 p.m., Monday, Aug. 1, at Arnold Palmer’s Latrobe Country Club. For information on the golf outing, call Kary Coleman, director of development and alumni relations, 724-334-6057 or kxc22@psu.edu

If the Roaring 20s piano player opens with Elton John’s “Funeral for a Friend” or the flapper closes with Billy Joel’s “Only the Good Die Young,” can the audience deduce, despite the anachronism, the killer of Vinnie Vermicelli?

"Mobsters, Molls and Marinara"

6 p.m., Wednesday, April 20, Cafe 780

“Be careful who you call your friends. I’d rather have four quarters than one hundred pennies.” -- Al Capone

UPPER BURRELL, Pa. -- You gotta know cement shoes from wingtips to find the gangster who done Vinnie Vermicelli wrong at Penn State New Kensington's murder mystery dinner theatre presentation, "Mobsters, Molls and Marinara," at 6 p.m., Wednesday, April 20, in the campus' Cafe 780.

A scheduling conflict precludes Nancy Drew from solving the conundrum, so the interactive production will rely on the audience to ascertain the identity of the perpetrator of this most foul deed. Seated in the midst of Vinnie’s speakeasy, would-be sleuths must finger the rogue who had a smile that went a long way, but who also had a gun that went even further.

Tickets are free for campus students with an ID, $10 for faculty and staff and $20 for the general public. Price includes dinner and the performance. To reserve your seat, contact Lauren Blum, student life coordinator, at 724-334-6063 or ldb14@psu.edu.

The production is handled by the cast of Mystery's Most Wanted, a Pittsburgh-based ensemble. Mystery's Most Wanted has been performing murder mystery dinner theatre in the region for 13 years. The troupe comprises five professional character actors who have strong improvisation skills. They write and perform the original comedic mysteries.

For more about the show visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/46473.htm

For more on Mystery's Most Wanted, visit http://www.mysterysmostwanted.com/