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Just in time for the holiday season, Performance Music at The University of Scranton will present its 52nd annual Noel Night concert on Saturday, Dec. 7.
Beginning at 8 p.m. in the University's Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue, the concert will feature The University of Scranton Singers and Chamber Ensembles with organist/pianist Timothy Smith, D.M.A., and trumpeter Mark Gould serving as guest performers.
A prelude with performances by members of the Performance Music instrumental ensembles will begin at 7 p.m.
Admission to the concert is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis.
The University's Christmas gift to the community, Noel Night has become a beloved holiday tradition for many Scranton-area residents since its creation over a half-century ago.
"It's always a wonderful evening," said Performance Music Conductor and Director Cheryl Y. Boga.
At the concert, the 50-plus voice student mixed choir will be joined by the guest musicians and leaders of the University community, who will offer greetings and readings of the Nativity Martyrology and St. Luke Nativity Narrative.
Since 2010, Dr. Smith has served as the director of music and organist at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Scranton. Prior to that, he served in the same position at New York City's famed Riverside Church from 1992 to 2008. A graduate of Yale University with a doctorate from the Manhattan School of Music, he has performed with numerous orchestras throughout the New York City area and has served as university organist at Columbia University since 2000.
Dr. Smith has recorded for the Pro Organo, Philips Classic, JAV and Gothic labels, and has performed at a number of high-profile venues through the years, including the cathedrals of Chartres, Beauvais, Notre-Dame, and the Church of St. Germain-des-Prez in France, and the Lincoln and Wells cathedrals in Great Britain. His performances have received praise in such publications as The American Organist, The American Record Guide and Choir and Organ.
"He's a world-class organist. I'm so happy and grateful that Covenant brought him to Scranton – he is an incredible addition to our community," Boga said of Dr. Smith.
A longtime Performance Music collaborator and member of the brass and ensembles faculties at New York City's Mannes School of Music, Gould served as the principal trumpet of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra from 1974-2003.
Gould has conducted and performed as a soloist with the Seattle Symphony, San Diego Symphony, Colorado Philharmonic, Buffalo Symphony, Juilliard Wind Ensemble, the Waterloo Festival, the Caramoor Festival and the Vermont Mozart Festival Orchestra. He's recorded several albums as director of the New York Trumpet Ensemble, and has been a frequent guest with Speculum Musicae, Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, the MET Chamber Ensemble, Empire Brass, Canadian Brass, Summit Brass, the Graham Ashton Brass Ensemble and Extension Ensemble.
For further information on the Noel Night concert, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music.
Noel Night Concert Set for Dec. 7
University to ring in holiday season with 52nd annual Noel Night concert, presented as a Christmas gift to the community.
In early November, almost 50 students participated in a Search Retreat -- a weekend of talks, personal reflection, and small and large group activities focused on these questions: "Who am I? Who is God in my life? Who do I want to be? How do my relationships with others lead me closer to or further from God?"
A team of 10 upper-class students train for about 30 hours -- reflecting on topics for student-led talks, praying together, and learning to lead small group reflection. There are three retreats each year, and the community gathers monthly for renewals. Retreat alumni conduct a continuous prayer vigil during the retreat so that each hour a different person is praying for the retreatants. Student alumni also return to Chapman Lake to serve meals during the retreat.
Of this faith experience, Colleen Rohr '20, one of the team leaders on this Search, said, "I think it's impossible to really get to know someone and not love them. And Search creates the perfect environment for understanding that."
The Search Retreat began at The University of Scranton in 1984 under the leadership of Fr. Bill Gavin, S.J. and was taken over by Fr. Joe Simmons, S.J. until 1993.
Cathy Seymour '90 went on Search 10 as a student and has directed the Search Retreats since 1993.
"It has been a privilege to accompany so many students on the Search Retreats. It's especially meaningful to be able to work these days with some of the children of my own classmates," she said.
The November 2019 retreat was the 89th Search Retreat at the University, and the Search community is strong. More than 2,900 students have participated over the last 35 years.
Search is Going Strong at 89!
In early November, almost fifty students participated in a Search Retreat.
Many of us celebrate Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November, but what about the third Thursday of November?
Friendsgiving has become a widely recognized occasion by young adults. Whether it is on the third Thursday or the weekend before Thanksgiving, friends get together and eat some Thanksgiving staples. The way to go for Friendsgiving is potluck style. This means a friend group crafts an excel spreadsheet on a Google Drive, each person signs up for something to bring and young adults cook Thanksgiving food for the first time ever, probably.
From my own Friendsgiving experiences -- and also from asking around -- it turns out Friendsgiving is alive and well at The University of Scranton. Scranton students gathered around off-campus or on-campus tables and indulged in turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce and more. What better way to spend time with friends and take a break from the end-of-the-semester stress than to eat a ton of food?
Alexis Ward '20 had a Friendsgiving with her roommates. The group was glad to find a time for them to be together.
"We had (Friendsgiving) because with our schedules being so busy, it's hard to get the whole friend group together, so we used it as an opportunity to get everyone in the same room and celebrate our friendships," Ward said.
An even bigger Friendsgiving went on in a nearby apartment.
Zoë Haggerty '20 celebrated Friendsgiving with 15 friends in her company. The group used to spend a lot more time together, but schedules have gotten in the way a little more this semester. Friendsgiving came at the perfect time for them.
"A lot of us were used to having a few classes together per semester, but this semester many of us only had one or two classes together. We also have all been more involved in different clubs and activities, so we wanted to get together to spend time with each other and catch up!" Haggerty said.
Mary McCafferty spent Friendsgiving with Haggerty. She had a great time at the gathering and found it as a stress-reliever during such a busy time.
"This time of the school year gets really busy with finals coming up, so we thought it was important to take time to relax and just spend quality time with friends! Everyone brought some food to share, and we ended up playing games after dinner and laying a ton. It was a great way to take a break from the stress of the semester!" McCafferty said.
Personally, I have attended Friendsgiving with my Scranton friends, and I think it perfectly fits the type of community we have at the University. Scranton provides me with a home away from home, and it also gives me a family away from home.
Friendsgiving helps Scranton students celebrate their Scranton families while also eating festive holiday food. What's better than that?
Scranton Students Celebrate Friendsgiving
Friendsgiving is alive and well at The University of Scranton. Scranton students gathered around off-campus or on-campus tables and indulged in turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce and more.
The University recently hosted a presentation of the 2019 update of the Living Wage Report and what it costs to live a modest but dignified life in Northeastern Pennsylvania in 2019. Read about the presentation here. The previous report can be found online at: scranton.edu/livingwage. And you can see a video about the report and hear from members of the community about their challenges, below.
In 2016, The University of Scranton and The Institute for Public Policy and Economic Development produced a report that went beyond the poverty rate to analyze what is required for economic security in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Three years later, the data has been updated including key changes in the costs associated with meeting basic needs.
The report once again includes perspectives from community leaders and new policy recommendations rooted in Catholic Social Teaching on economic justice.
Living Wage Study: A Video
The University recently hosted a presentation of the 2019 update of the Living Wage Report and what it costs to live a modest but dignified life in Northeastern Pennsylvania in 2019. You can see a video about the report and hear from members of the community about their challenges, below.
University of Scranton students, faculty and staff donated food baskets for area families in need through its annual Thanksgiving Food Drive organized by the University's Center for Service and Social Justice. More than 80 students, including 45 members of Scranton's Lacrosse team, volunteered to prepare and distribute 200 food baskets to families at the Valley View Housing Development in South Scranton.
Other holiday programs organized by University's Center for Service and Social Justice include Christmas gift drives and a Community Christmas Day Breakfast. The gift drives are currently underway for student, faculty and staff donations.
Local students, faculty and staff will also volunteer for the community breakfast, which will take place from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Dec. 25 in the DeNaples Center. Reservations are not required to attend the free breakfast. For information call 570-941-7401 or email info@scranton.edu.
University Conducts Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive
The University's holiday drives began with the donation of 200 Thanksgiving food baskets to area families in need.
The Staff Senate Staff Development Committee cordially invites you to an informational session on COLD WEATHER SAFETY.
Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2019, at 11:30 a.m. in the Rose Room, Brennan Hall 509.
A light lunch will be served. Registration by 12/2 is required for this event.
Please click here to register.
We are pleased to have Andrew Snyder, Scranton Office Manager and former Director of Continuing Education at AAA North Penn, and Mike Baltrusaitis, University Health and Safety Officer, Cocciardi and Associates, provide this program for University staff!
Staff Senate Invitation: Cold Weather Safety Tips
Congratulations to Andy Buttner (senior, trumpet), Abigail Buck (junior, trombone), Kristen Denniston (junior, horn), and Annie Duffy (freshman, clarinet) on their selection as members of the 73rd Annual Pennsylvania State Intercollegiate Band Festival!
The spring 2020 event will be held at California University of PA, with the band made up of students selected from applicants from college and university bands from throughout the state of Pennsylvania, conducted by guest conductor Dennis Fisher, wind band director emeritus from University of North Texas.
Four Students Selected for PA Intercollegiate Band
The Princeton Review listed The University of Scranton's Kania School of Management among the nation's "Best Business Schools" for 2020, marking the 15th consecutive year that Scranton has been included in the listing of just 248 of the most elite business colleges in the nation. Scranton was included among the list of "Best On-Campus MBA Programs," which was published online in November.
"We commend these schools for their outstanding MBA programs, each of which has stellar academic offerings as well as on-campus and off-campus experiential components," said Rob Franek, The Princeton Review's editor in chief, in a news release announcing the 2020 "Best Business Schools" lists.
The listing of business programs is compiled from an analysis of institutional data and survey data from students attending the business schools. The data incorporates career outcomes, academic rigor, admissions selectivity and other factors.
The profile of Scranton on the "Best Business Schools" website noted its "Jesuit values add an element of social responsibility to the work students do at the Kania School of Management (KSOM)." The profile also said Scranton is "focused on what will be required of an MBA graduate in today's marketplace" and described the school as an "excellent learning atmosphere," where "everyone is friendly and willing to help." The Princeton Review also noted Scranton's professors were accessible and "provide critical insight."
The University's Kania School of Management is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), which is widely considered the standard of excellence for business schools. Less than five percent of business colleges worldwide hold AACSB accreditation.
The Princeton Review also listed Scranton in its 2020 edition of the "Best 385 Colleges," ranking Scranton among the nation's "Best Science Labs" (No. 7), "Best Campus Food" (No. 10) and "Best Run Colleges" (No. 20). The Princeton Review also included Scranton in its 2019 "Guide to Green Colleges."
In other national rankings, U.S. News and World Report included Scranton in a national ranking of the "Best Undergraduate Business Programs" (No. 224) and ranked Scranton's entrepreneurship program at No. 33, its finance program at No. 43 and its accounting program at No. 52 in the country. In the overall ranking for colleges, U.S. News ranked Scranton No. 6 among the "Best Regional Universities in the North," marking the 26th consecutive year that Scranton ranked in the top 10 of its category.
Scranton Listed Among Best Business Schools
The Princeton Review included Scranton among the nation's "Best Business Schools" for 15 consecutive years.
Two University of Scranton Small Business Development Center (SBDC) staff members presented sessions at the 39th America's SBDC national conference in Long Beach, California, this semester.
Keith Yurgosky, business consultant, presented "Overcoming Your SBDC's Social Media Challenges" and also served as a panelist in a digital marketing session with SBDC colleagues from across the country.
Lisa Hall Zielinski, director, presented "Achieving Goals with a Small Business Internship Initiative." Zielinski is a member of the America's SBDC Professional Development and Education Conference Committee, a small group of SBDC staff from across the country who assist America's SBDC staff in planning the annual conference.
This year, more than 1,300 SBDC professionals from across the country attended the conference. These advisors, trainers and directors came together for professional development and networking.
SBDCs are hosted by leading universities, colleges, state economic development agencies and private partners, and funded in part by the United States Congress through a partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration. There are nearly 1,000 local centers available to provide no-cost business consulting and low-cost training to new and existing businesses. The University of Scranton SBDC serves 8 counties in Northeastern and Northern Tier Pennsylvania.
SBDC Staff Members Present at National Conference
University of Scranton Small Business Development Center staff members presented at the 39th America's SBDC national conference.
Ismail Onat, Ph.D., assistant professor of sociology, criminal justice and criminology at The University of Scranton, has received the 2019 Rutgers Center on Public Security (RCPS) Kaleidoscope Award.
RCPS specializes in applying geospatial technologies to scholarly research and addressing crime, terrorism and other threats to public security. It presents the Kaleidoscope Award each year to a recipient who has demonstrated innovative applications of Risk Terrain Modeling, which diagnoses environmental conditions that lead to crime, that advance research and practice for the public good.
Dr. Onat has advanced Risk Terrain Modeling through innovative applications to terrorism, drugs and crime analysis from an international perspective, as well as demonstrating a unique ability to help practitioners maximize local resources and expertise to solve problems. In his participation with the University's Center for the Analysis and Prevention of Crime, he has enhanced the technological and analytical capabilities of students, police officers and other criminal justice agencies in the community.
Dr. Onat received his bachelor's degree at the Turkish National Police Academy and his master's and doctoral degrees at The State University of New Jersey – Rutgers. He joined the faculty at Scranton in 2016.
Professor Receives Public Security Award
Criminal Justice Professor Ismail Onat, PhD., received the Rutgers Center on Public Security award for innovations in Risk Terrain Modeling.
The 2020-2021 Academic Year Guidelines for the Financial Aid Process, a renewal Financial Aid newsletter is now available. Visit scranton.edu/financialaid and click on 2020-2021 Publications. The newsletter was emailed to current undergraduate students and parents of undergraduates on November 22, 2019.
Please review the newsletter (especially the Hot Topic section) for information on FAFSA First and completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, FAFSA. The 2020-2021 FAFSA must be completed by April 15, 2020. The Financial Aid Office will begin upper class processing beginning in June 2020.
If there are any questions or concerns, please contact the Financial Aid Office at 1-888-SCRANTON or finaid@scranton.edu. Thank you for your attention to this important information.
2020-2021 Guidelines for the Financial Aid Process
The 2020-2021 Academic Year Guidelines for the Financial Aid Process, a renewal Financial Aid newsletter is now available.
When having something shipped to you on campus via FedEx, UPS or Amazon, you must use your physical office location, not 800 LInden Street. A list of addresses for campus buildings is located here.
Campus Addresses for FedEx, UPS and Amazon Delivery
When having something shipped to you on campus via FedEx, UPS or Amazon, you must use your physical office location, not 800 Linden Street.
The University of Scranton's 11th annual Community Christmas Day Breakfast will take place Wednesday, Dec. 25, from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the third-floor Fresh Food Company of the DeNaples Center on campus. The breakfast, organized by the Center for Service and Social Justice and Dining Services/ARAMARK, is offered free of charge to the elderly or those who are alone or in need as a gift to the community for the holiday season.
The University's Dining Service/ARAMARK staff and volunteers from the University will prepare and serve the breakfast that will include eggs, sausage, pancakes, danish, juice and more.
Reservations are not needed to attend. Parking is available for the breakfast in the University's parking pavilion on Mulberry Street. For additional information, call 570-941-7401.
Christmas Day Breakfast Planned at University
The University of Scranton will hold its 11th annual Community Christmas Day Breakfast on Dec. 25, from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
The University of Scranton held an orientation for the incoming participants of the Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program for 2019-2020. The program seeks to develop future executives to serve area nonprofit institutions.
Launched in 2017, the certificate program combines a rigorous academic component taught by Kania School of Management faculty with expertise in nonprofit organizations, a mentorship and experiential learning. The program includes capstone project that requires participants to form a comprehensive plan to solve a current issue faced by the nonprofit organization they represent.
Incoming members of the third cohort of Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program and the organizations they represent are:
Michael Brown of Scranton, project manager, The Wright Center;
Chelsea Chopko of Scranton, executive assistant, The Wright Center;
Cathy Colangelo of West Hazleton, executive director, Partners in Education;
Ginny Crake of Pittston Township, executive director, Junior Achievement of NEPA;
Julianne Cucura of Scranton, development director, Boys & Girls Club of NEPA;
Anna Faramelli of Scranton, crisis and advocacy services director, Women's Resource Center, Inc.;
Janine Fortney of Wilkes-Barre, program director, Family Service Association of NEPA;
Nicole Morristell of Scranton, executive director, Lackawanna Leadership;
Megan Mould of Scranton, associate vice president of college advancement, Johnson College;
Amber Loomis of Wilkes-Barre, chief advancement officer, Family Service Association of NEPA;
Ben Payavis of Pittston, chief content officer/executive producer, WVIA;
Jeremy Popiel of Carbondale, aquatic/program director, Greater Carbondale YMCA;
Ron Prislupski of Pittston, chief development officer, WVIA;
Helayna Szescila of Scranton, governance officer, The Wright Center;
Jessica Wallo of Throop, vice president of programs and services, United Neighborhood Centers;
Mary-Pat Ward of Scranton, executive director, City of Scranton OECD.
For additional information visit the Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program webpage or call 570-941-4047.
Third Cohort Begins Nonprofit Leadership Program
The University welcomed members of the 2019-2020 cohort of its Nonprofit Leadership Certificate Program.
Friday, Dec. 6, 2019
5:30 p.m. - WML, Heritage Room
Book Talk and Signing featuring The Kosher Capones by Joe Kraus
Joe Kraus is chair of the English Department and Theatre at The University of Scranton. His new book, The Kosher Capones, tells the fascinating story of Jewish gangsters from Prohibition into the 1980s. Tracing these gangsters through the lives, criminal careers and conflicts of Benjamin "Zuckie the Bookie" Zuckerman, last of the independent West Side Jewish bosses, and Lenny Patrick, eventual head of the Syndicate's "Jewish wing".
Book Talk and Signing will be followed by a reception.
RSVP to Alicen Morrison, Alicen.Morrison@scranton.edu, 570-941-6206
Schemel Forum Author Event: Joe Kraus
"We've told our story to our children and grandchildren. Tonight, with your permission, we'd like to include you into our family and share our story with you," Bernard Schanzer, M.D., said. "Our story is a story of terror and survival told from a child's perspective."
The University's PNC Auditorium in the Loyola Science Center was filled to capacity Nov. 12 for the Judaic Studies Institute Lecture presented by twin brothers Bernard Schanzer and Henry Schanzer, J.D.
Marc Shapiro, Ph.D., professor of theology/religious studies and the Weinberg Chair of Judaic Studies at The University of Scranton, gave a short introduction before the brothers took the stage.
The twin brother spoke about how they were only seven years old when they were first impacted by the Holocaust.
"Our ordeal began when the Germans invaded Belgium on May 10, 1940. Within a few days, 15 members of our extended family – including my ailing grandmother and my sister, who had just had her appendix removed – crammed into a small van. We fled ahead of the event of Germans taking over France," Bernard said.
Their family, trying to get ahead of what was brewing, fled their home and moved south to St. Etienne. During this time, the brothers were able to escape the horror happening around them, but it would be short-lived.
Their father, Bruno Schanzner, was around 40 years old when their apartment in St. Etienne was seized, and he was deported to a French detention camp on August 26, 1942. He – like many other Jews – ended up in Nazi concentration camps such as Auschwitz.
They emphasized how the invasion of Nazi forces into France tore their family – and the country – apart. After their father was deported, their mother went into hiding and the brothers spent years away from her and any other relatives. At some points, they were in orphanages, and at other times they were in hiding on farms.
"At times, we were so hungry, we resorted to stealing food from the animals. We were malnourished. We had worms and we were very sick," Henry said.
Eventually, their mother was able to arrange their stay at the farm of Adolphine Dorel in Saint-Pal-de-Mons, where they were kept safe until the end of the war.
In the summer of 1945, the war finally ended, and they were reunited with their mother. In April of 1946, they arrived in the United States and settled on the lower-east side.
"My mother was a 45-year-old widow. Somehow, against all odds, she overcame. We were poor; we didn't have a pot to put a penny in. We struggled and progressed," Henry said.
They mentioned how their story is a story of matriarchy.
"My mother really sacrificed her life. After the war, it was incredibly difficult for her, yet she managed somehow to raise us without bringing up all the terrible thoughts, memories, and disasters that she had gone through. She isolated us from the real difficulties that she faced when she came to the United States," Bernard said.
They ended their lecture with a call-to-action for the community members and students in the audience.
"We must have the courage to stand-up to evil and to bigotry. You cannot be bystanders," Bernard said. "We have to be vigilant. It [the holocaust] occurred once; it may occur again. What we have to do it make sure that that does not happen again."
Twins Share Their Holocaust Story
Holocaust survivors present "A Twin Tale of Survival in the Holocaust" at the University' Judaic Studies Lecture.
"Dual enrollment benefits high school students on a personal, professional and practical level," according Rebekah Bernard, University of Scranton Information and Technology Specialist for Admissions and Enrollment, who discussed the value of students taking college courses during their high school years in a news article first published in the Scranton Times-Tribune on Nov. 18.
The story highlighted the number of local students taking part in dual enrollment programs at area colleges.
The article by Times-Tribune reporter Kathleen Bolus explains that through these programs "(s)tudents have new and advanced academic experiences which increases their confidence, it lets them try out majors and courses they might pursue after high school graduation and it gives students a discounted head start on their degree," according to Bernard.
At The University of Scranton, high school students are placed in classes on campus with their college peers. High school students who have finished their sophomore year and have a good GPA are eligible to take classes at the University. Information about the University's college enrollment programs for high school students can be found here.
The news article was picked up by AP wire service and published in other papers in Pennsylvania. The full article can be read here, as well as in the Scranton Times-Tribune.
High School Students Benefit from Dual Enrollment
A Times-Tribune news article highlights the benefits to high school students in taking college classes through dual enrollment programs.
The former chief of staff to President Obama reminded students of the value – and responsibility – that comes with a four-year college degree at the inaugural Humanities in Action Lecture.
Denis McDonough, senior principal at the Markle Foundation and chair of its Rework America Task Force, told the audience that – in the future – technology will be used for more and more tasks currently performed by humans, and only 34 percent of the U.S. workforce has a college degree.
"Machines are really good at certain things," said McDonough, explaining that machines can do somethings better than humans but not everything. He went on to say that humans are good at discernment, judgment and complexity. "So, the first and most important thing that you can do for your own career opportunities, and also for the national interest, is to invest in the things that humans do really well. And, you know who has a long tradition of understanding what humans do really well … the Jesuits."
He told the students in the audience that "perhaps the most Ignatian of all, is that you have the responsibility, outfitted and armed with the armor that this place gives you, to take care of this country, to take care of the world and to take care of the most vulnerable."
McDonough, who served as White House chief of staff for President Barack Obama from February 2013 to January 2017, also reminded students that "the principal responsibility of an American citizen is to vote." He said that only 23 percent of 18- to 24-year-olds voted in the 2016 election. "That's a travesty. The first responsibility you have as citizens of this great democracy is to vote," said McDonough.
The conversation with McDonough, titled "From the White House to the Work Force," launched the University's Humanities in Action Lecture Series, which is sponsored by the Gail and Francis Slattery Center for Humanities. At the event, University of Scranton philosophy professor and pre-law advisor Matthew Meyer, Ph.D., faculty director for the Slattery Center for the Humanities, and Scranton Times-Tribune education reporter Sarah Hofius Hall led a question and answer session with McDonough in the McIlhenny Ballroom of the DeNaples Center. Debra Pellegrino, Ed.D., dean of the University's Panuska College of Professional Studies, and Gregory Jordan, executive director of the University's Slattery Center for Humanities, also spoke at the event.
In May 2019, the University established the Gail and Francis Slattery Center for Humanities to advance the University's liberal arts tradition and enhance the core role it plays in the formation of students to become "men and women for others." The Center, named after the parents of benefactor and current University Trustee James M. Slattery '86 and his wife, Betsy, will serve as a national model for humanities in action. Through the Center's programs, elevated discourse on an array of topics and civic engagement will be encouraged by members of the University community, as well as by residents throughout the greater Scranton area.
Responsibilities of a College Education Discussed
The University launched the Humanities in Action Lecture Series with a conversation with President Obama's chief of staff Denis McDonough.
This IT Forum introduces you to technologies that are being implemented by various offices or departments on our campus.
Dec. 3 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in ELH 235. Breakfast is included.
IT Forum: Be Our Guest for Breakfast on Dec. 3
Margaret C. Perez, Bethlehem, had known Edward R. Leahy, J.D. '68, H'01, for more than 60 years. She knew his wife, Patricia, and their late son, Edward Jr. She also knew of the work of The University of Scranton's Leahy Community Health and Family Center and Edward R. Leahy Jr. Center Clinic for the Uninsured housed in the Panuska College of Professional Studies, and was so impressed by its mission that she bequeathed a portion of her estate to the Edward R. Leahy Jr. Endowment at the University – a gift of nearly $1 million.
"Margaret, or Marge as we called her, was a good soul and a life-long friend. She never said an unkind word to anyone and went to church nearly every day," said Edward Leahy. "She had no children or living relatives and when she passed away at the age of 88, she gave her entire estate to charities, including a portion to the Leahy Endowment at the University."
Leahy said Perez visited the Leahy Community Health and Family Center years ago and was deeply moved by the compassionate service shown to people with disabilities. Shortly after her visit, she told Leahy of her intent to bequeath a portion of her estate to the endowment at the University.
The Edward R. Leahy Jr. Endowment was founded by Edward and Patricia Leahy to honor the life and memory of their son, Edward R. Leahy, Jr., whose personal disabilities were attended to with compassion and skill by many health professionals over the course of his life. The endowment provides financial resources to support theoretical and applied research, faculty development, and support for programs that advance the cause of disabled persons who need long-term assistance.
The Panuska College of Professional Studies houses occupational therapy, physical therapy, kinesiology, counseling and human services, health administration and human resources, nursing and education. Every graduate of PCPS completes a community-based learning requirement for service. In addition, PCPS houses the Leahy Community Health and Family Center with four clinics in medicine, physical therapy, counseling and low vision, and the Alice V. Leahy Food pantry, University of Success program and the new center of Autism.
Perez was born in 1930 in Allentown to the late Manuel and Terrsa (Yllanes-Lugris) Perez. She worked for 47 years with Western Electric, Bell Laboratories and Lucent, before retiring in 1995. She was a member of St. Simon and Jude Catholic Church, Bethlehem. She died in March of 2018.
Leahy Endowment Given Bequeath of Nearly $1 Million
Margaret Perez bequeathed $963,560 from her estate to the Edward R. Leahy Jr. Endowment at the University.
Numerous families in Lackawanna and Luzerne fall below official federal poverty measurements and there are also many others who work full time and are above the poverty line, but still fall short of a living wage that can adequately provide for themselves and their children, according to a new study that offers recommendations to close the gap and promote economic security.
In partnership with The Institute for Public Policy and Economic Development, The University of Scranton's Office of Community and Government Relations, Ellacuría Initiative and Political Science Department released a comprehensive report that details how conditions have changed three years after their groundbreaking "Living Wage Report 2016." A living wage is a rate at which a worker can reach a standard of living that meets essential basic needs and enables the worker to live a modest but dignified life.
"This report includes the perspectives of community leaders who illuminate the challenges faced by our neighbors," said Scott R. Pilarz, S.J., president of The University of Scranton. "These voices, along with the data, put into perspective the difficulties so many in this region face in affording and accessing basic needs. The gaps between a minimum wage and a living wage are stark and the persistence of poverty troubling, and yet the report is in no way hopeless. As Pope Francis has said, 'Poverty is not an inevitable misfortune: it has causes that must be recognized and removed, in order to honor the dignity of many brothers and sisters.'"
To understand better the extent of income issues beyond standard government poverty measures, The Institute for Public Policy and Economic Development used a living wage calculator developed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The Institute and then analyzed federal, state and county economic and census data from 2017 and 2018.
Several resources are available to low- and moderate-income households that do not earn a living wage in NEPA. However, for many programs, some families can make too little to achieve family economic security but not enough to qualify for some assistance. "The 'benefits-cliff' effect is real as low-wage work can result in a difficult transition: benefits swiftly decline but economic stability is still out of reach. The availability of benefits are also a concern as many government programs are being cut or curtailed," said Julie Schumacher Cohen, director of the University's Office of Community and Government Relations, "which puts more and more families in an economically unviable position. Northeastern Pennsylvania has made significant economic and community development progress in recent years and has a generous social service and charitable sector, but the study shows that serious challenges remain."
"While some solutions to address earning a living wage may seem partisan to some, this study is not intended to be a partisan paper," said Teri Ooms, director of The Institute for Public Policy and Economic Development. "It reflects the real-life situation here in NEPA, where income inequality has increased over the past decade and our own residents cannot meet basic needs. It is important for everyone to band together and work on solutions. Mitigating this problem will improve our regional economy and reduce the need for social service programs."
"While not necessarily surprising, it is disheartening to see how difficult economic conditions remain for residents of Lackawanna and Luzerne counties following ten years of economic growth," said Michael Allison, Ph.D., coordinator of the Ellacuría Initiative and chair of the University's Political Science Department. "Our community is not prepared to weather a significant economic downturn."
The study draws on the region's network of social service agencies to shed additional light on the challenges and offers recommendations rooted in Catholic Social teaching. Leaders of the community agencies point to the fraying social safety net and the struggle to help families overcome financial shortfalls, even when they earn more than the state's minimum wage.
The findings of the Living Wage Report Update include:
In Lackawanna and Luzerne counties and across Pennsylvania, the living wage income need has increased for all family classifications from 2016 to 2018. For a family of two adults and two children in Lackawanna and Luzerne counties, the living wage income rose from $44,056 to $48,069, a 9.1 percent increase.
The region as a whole has an above-average proportion of families living in poverty compared to the rest of the Commonwealth.
The state's minimum wage of $7.25 does not meet the living wage standard for any of the family compositions examined in the study. The gap between minimum wage income and living wage income has increased as of 2019.
The cost of meeting some human needs increased dramatically since the 2016 report, including housing costs by 20.2 percent; medical expenses by 12.7 percent; transportation costs by 4.2 percent; and childcare expenses by 4.4 percent.
Achieving economic security requires a multi-pronged team approach that involves public policy changes, further economic and workforce development efforts, government social safety net programs, and private and individual charitable and service activities. "Underlying each of the following recommendations is an effort to identify how various sectors have a role to play in ensuring economic security for a greater share of our neighbors. Community partners can work together to connect families with opportunities and resources in their communities," said Cohen.
The recommendations of the Living Wage Report Update include:
Increase wages: To foster and maintain more family-sustaining jobs, raise the Pennsylvania and/or federal minimum wage, and further increase economic development and workforce activities, including strategic higher education and K-12 collaborations to ensure a match between regional skills and needs.
Support tax credits for low-income families: Support federal tax credits, and potential expanded state tax credits, to assist with basic costs for low-income families, including populations experiencing special economic challenges, such as grandparents serving as caregivers in the wake of the opioid epidemic.
Address housing affordability: Identify and implement a range of strategies aimed at providing affordable housing in ways that address both the necessity of continued economic development and the needs of low-income residents.
Expand access to existing social safety net programs that address issues, such as food insecurity and early education, and ensure that federal and other poverty measures adequately address the realities of low-income Americans.
The study dovetails with the University's commitment, as a Catholic and Jesuit institution, to an educational mission that includes the service of faith and the promotion of justice. The University draws on the efforts of Catholic and Jesuit partners to raise awareness of and advocate for public policies in keeping with emphases within Catholic Social Teaching on principles of human dignity, community and the common good, dignity of work and the rights of workers, solidarity, the option for the poor and vulnerable, and the role of government and subsidiarity.
The University released the report update at a State of Scranton seminar luncheon titled "Living Wage Study: Three Years On" on Nov. 15 on campus. In addition to presentations on the updated report, the more than 130 community leaders, business professionals, government officials and faculty members in attendance discussed and prioritized in small groups how we can collectively respond to issues of economic insecurity in our region.
The event also included a short video featuring interviews of individuals who have experienced economic insecurity in our community, including their recommendations for community action.
Update to Living Wage Report Presented
The University and The Institute for Public Policy and Economic Development updated its Living Wage Report, first presented in 2016.
"Working Towards a More Inclusive Campus" was the theme of the Fall Communications Symposium, hosted by The Staff Senate and the Office of Human Resources on Thursday, Nov. 14. Elizabeth M. Garcia, J.D., Title IX Coordinator and Executive Director, Office of Equity & Diversity, was welcomed as the guest presenter for the semi-annual event, which was attended by University faculty and staff.
Garcia reminded attendees that students, faculty and staff all play a part in creating an environment that makes students feel comfortable and creates a healthy working environment. A variety of hands-on learning experiences are available, including the Diversity & Inclusion Lunch and Learn Series and Title IX Refresher on Required Reporting, both of which were offered this fall. One more Title IX Required Reporter Refresher is available this semester, on Monday, Nov. 25, at 11:30 a.m. in Brennan Hall's Pearn Auditorium.
The OED's website also offers a wealth of resources such as Tool Kits for Inclusionary Hiring and Safe Colleges online training. Monthly suggested trainings are available through Safe Colleges, and over 275 employees have completed the current Discrimination Awareness in the Workplace course. Garcia stressed that anything relating to Title IX that comes from their office is mandatory; all other trainings are optional. She and her OED colleagues are open to feedback on future in-person and online topics.
Garcia also touched on one updated and one new policy that took effect on Friday, Nov. 1. Additional educational sessions are being offered on the Americans With Disabilities Reasonable Accommodation Policies on Wednesday, Dec. 11, at 2:00 p.m. and on the Religious Accommodation Policy on Thursday, Dec. 5 at 2:30 p.m. Both sessions will be held in Brennan Hall's Pearn Auditorium. A new Pregnancy Accommodation Policy is in the works and will soon be submitted to the President's Cabinet for consideration. If approved, information sessions will also be available on that policy.
More information on events, trainings, and additional resources can be found on the OED's website here.
Staff Senate Communication Symposium
"Working Towards a More Inclusive Campus" was the theme of the Fall Communications Symposium, hosted by The Staff Senate and the Office of Human Resources on Thursday, Nov. 14
Although most students have the privilege of going home for the Thanksgiving break to celebrate and spend time with family, international students typically stay in Scranton.
"These students stay around Scranton to either catch up with school work, do some short distance travel, do some Black Friday shopping, sleep in and chill and hang out with friends," Director of Global Education, Huey Shi Chew, said.
Some international students get invited to homes by their friends to Thanksgiving meals, and if they do not, the Office of Global Education tries to match students with host families.
"Since last year, the Office of Global Education tries to match the international students who are NOT traveling, with host families, during the holidays. The Office sees this as a win-win situation for the international students and the host family. The international students get to experience an important American holiday and the host family in return, gets to experience and learn from the international guest about his/her culture," Shi Chew said.
Because campus is closed over Christmas, many international students who do not go back to their home country have to find a place to stay.
"For Christmas, it has been a challenge finding families that will host our international students," said Shi Chew.
Would you like to bring an international student/scholar home this Thanksgiving or Christmas? Sign up to host and experience a different Thanksgiving and Christmas this year, here.
Questions ? Contact : Office of Global Education X 4841 or X 7575
Holiday Hosting Program for Staff and Faculty
Would you like to bring an international student/scholar home this Thanksgiving or Christmas? Sign up to host and experience a different Thanksgiving and Christmas this year!
Join the Jane Kopas Women's Center and the Society for Sustainability and Conservation for our table sit celebrating American Recycles Day this Friday, Nov. 15, on 2nd floor TDC from 3 to 5 p.m.
If you complete our activity, you are entered for a chance to win a zero-waste lunch kit!!
America Recycles Day
All staff are welcome to join us at the Annual Staff Senate Christmas Luncheon on Tuesday, Dec. 17, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. While this is a free event for University Staff Members, registration is required. Please click here to register: http://bit.ly/2019StaffSenateChristmas
Attendees are asked to bring toiletries (shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, etc.) to be donated to the Leahy Clinic. Proceeds from the Basket Raffle and 50/50 will also benefit the Leahy Clinic.
Staff Senate Christmas Luncheon
All staff are welcome to join us at the Annual Staff Senate Christmas Luncheon on Tuesday, Dec. 17, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Kevin M. Murphy, Ph.D., George J. Stigler Distinguished Service Professor of Economics at the Booth School of Business at the University of Chicago, presented "Human Capital, Inequality and Growth" at The University of Scranton's 34th Henry George Lecture held recently on campus.
Considered the preeminent public lecture series on economics in Northeastern Pennsylvania, the Henry George Lecture Series is presented by the University's Economics and Finance Department and the campus chapter of Omicron Delta Epsilon, the international honor society for economics. Among the distinguished list of speakers who have spoken at previous lectures are ten winners of the Nobel Prize in Economics: Paul Romer (2018), Robert Shiller (2013), Tom Sargent (2011), Peter Diamond (2010), Paul Krugman (2008), Joseph Stiglitz (2001), George Akerlof (2001), Amartya Sen (1998), Robert Lucas (1995) and Robert Solow (1987). The lecture series is named in honor of the 19th century American economist and social reformer and is supported financially by a grant from the Robert Schalkenbach Foundation.
University Hosts Annual Henry George Lecture
University of Chicago professor Kevin M. Murphy discussed Human Capital, Inequality and Growth at the 34th annual Henry George Lecture.
Both the women's soccer and field hockey teams won the Landmark Conference Championship this past weekend. Next up for both teams: the NCAA tournament. Women's soccer has been in the tournament the past few years, but this is the field hockey team's first appearance in it since 1997.
The teams are excited to perform on this stage with such a high level of competition. As a member of the field hockey team, I know that it is such an honor to be in the NCAA tournament bracket, and my teammates feel the same way.
"It's an honor to be playing in the tournament. It is such a cool experience, and it's so exciting to be hosting the first game on our home field," said Nicolette Keale '20, captain of the field hockey team.
Women's soccer has an 11-5-3 record so far this season and had a 5-2 conference record, which put them at No. 3 for the Landmark Conference playoffs. The Royals traveled to Elizabethtown for the conference semifinals, where they beat the Blue Jays 3-2. Next up was the Landmark Conference Championship at Susquehanna, which was a rematch of last year's championship game when Susquehanna came out on top. The Royals beat the River Hawks 3-0 this year, earning them their fourth Landmark Conference Championship title in the past five years. Mazie Stiles '21 led the team in goals with seven, with Steph Lowrey '22 following closely with six goals. Callie Deola '22 and Grace Elliott '22 both had three assists apiece, which was the leading number for the squad. The Royals are now heading into the NCAA tournament. For the first round, they are heading to Ada, Ohio, to take on Centre. The game is set for this Saturday, Nov. 16 at 1:30 p.m.
Read more about the upcoming women's soccer match, here.
The Scranton field hockey team is 13-7 this season and had a 6-1 Landmark Conference record. This conference record earned the Royals their first-ever No. 1 seed for playoffs. The squad defeated Elizabethtown 3-0 at home in the semi-final game, which set them up for a Landmark Conference Championship rematch with Susquehanna. In the 2018 championship game, Susquehanna came out on top, but this year, the Royals won 4-1 at home on Weiss Field. Gracie McClatchy '20 had a team-leading 13 goals on the season, followed by Allie Benadon '22 with seven goals. Benadon led the team with six assists, and McClatchy and Brianna Witt '20 followed with five assists each. Goalkeeper Claire McAllister started in all 20 games for the Royals, with a Goals Allowed Average of 1.20 and five shutouts. Field hockey's first-ever conference championship win earned them an automatic bid into the NCAA tournament, which will be the Royals' second time in the tournament (first time since losing in the first round in 1997). The Royals will host MIT for the first-round NCAA game at Weiss Field today, Wednesday, Nov. 13, at 3 p.m. This will be the first NCAA tournament game ever played at Weiss Field.
Read more about Wednesday's field hockey game, here.
Landmark Conference Championship Teams Head to NCAA Tournament
Two University teams, Landmark Conference champions, head to the NCAA tournament this week.
An article about Scranton's ROTC Program in AJCU's Connections highlights the strength of Jesuit teaching found in Scranton's ROTC Program. An expert from the article appears below with a link to the full article.
Contemplatives in action come to mind when Cadet Vincent Oliverio thinks of the way that Jesuit values are embedded in the ROTC Program at The University of Scranton. "When we see others being oppressed, we are taught to reflect, make decisions and take action when needed for the good of others," says Oliverio, a senior computer engineering major.
Cadet Ryan Haley sees Jesuit values in the ROTC's commitment to excellence and the challenge to develop fully the talents of each individual. "Our commitment to develop ourselves and our commitment to become excellent leaders goes back to our concern for the individual, because we want to make sure that we are doing right for the people we serve," says Haley, a senior business administration major.
Lieutenant Colonel William White, professor of military science at Scranton, … goes on to describe the broader need for the key skills a Jesuit education provides. See full article here.
Scranton ROTC Program Featured in AJCU Connections
The Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities' (AJCU) Nov. issue of Connections focuses on serving veterans at Jesuit institutions.
In June 2019, a group of University students traveled to El Salvador for an immersion experience they would never forget. Mei Lin McElhill '20, a counseling and human services major, exclaimed "I am ruined!" in her article featured in Royal News on June 24.
The international service trip hosted by University Campus Ministries in conjunction with CHRISPAZ (Christians for Peace in El Salvador) takes students and chaperones into the heart of a small community to live and walk with the people, experiencing the environment of an unstable third world country. Join us for the next Global Insights lunch and learn featuring Scranton students Mei Lin McElhill '20, Andrew Patterson '20, an exercise science major, and Emily Locascio '20, a biology major, for an eye-opening presentation on the country and culture of El Salvador. This event will be held on November 21, 2019 beginning at 11:30 a.m. in Brennan Hall, Rose Room 509. Registration is required for this event.
Locascio got a sense of a day in the life of her host family, Juana and Julio, during her week-long stay. She relates that even though they lived in circumstances that could become dangerous at any time, they enjoyed simple lives filled with love and selflessness. "The people you surround yourself with is what actually creates your experience," she said.
Patterson spoke of their impactful visit to the Centro Escolar grade school in Suchitoto. This K-5 school was a small concrete structure with walls to separate each grade into small classrooms. "Students struggle to get to school. They have few books and no computers. Many kids drop out so they can go to work to support their families," said Patterson.
McElhill shared that there are new initiatives happening to empower women and connect the marginalized with the middle to upper-class population. "They think about their community and how to pull their country up the ladder. They are very self-conscious about the environment which aligns with our Jesuit values," she said.
This program is being offered by The Office of Global Education, the Cross Cultural Centers, Residence Life and the Office of Equity and Diversity. A light lunch featuring cuisine from the highlighted country will be served. Registration for this event is required.
For more information, please contact Huey Shi Chew at hueyshi.chew@scranton.edu or 570-941-7575.
Global Insights Presents: El Salvador
The international service trip is hosted by University Campus Ministries in conjunction with CHRISPAZ, Christians for Peace in El Salvador.
The University of Scranton joined the National First-Generation College Celebration with an event on campus Nov. 8 to recognize the University's first-generation students, faculty, staff and alumni. The celebration was organized by the University's THR1VE Program, which launched in July 2019 to celebrate and support Scranton students whose parents have not completed a four-year college degree.
The event included an ongoing networking opportunity for first-generation students to connect with first-generation alumni mentors in various professions. The celebration also included trivia about famous first-gen students and the THR1VE program, a photo booth and social media campaign, a hot chocolate bar and a selection of fall foods.
"As the first member of the Pilarz family to graduate from college, I know firsthand the ways that graduation can be particularly life-changing for students, their families, and future generations," said Rev. Scott R. Pilarz, S.J., president, in a letter to the University community about the celebration. "Since our founding as St. Thomas College, educating and forming those who are the first in their families to earn a college degree has been and will continue to be a special part of our mission."
The National First-Generation College Celebration was established in 2017 to honor the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which helped students from minority and low-income backgrounds. For the last two years, institutions from across the nation have organized their own celebrations in support of their first-generation students.
The THR1VE program was developed from a needs assessment survey and other input from first-generation students attending the University. Based on this information, the THR1VE program has focused on three primary areas of support: financial wellness, academic planning and career development. At the University, 23 percent of the undergraduate population identifies as first-generation.
This marks the first year that the University has participated in the National First-Generation College Celebration.
University Celebrates First-Gen Students
The University joined the National First-Generation College Celebration with an event on campus Nov. 8.
Mary Jane Hanson, Ph.D., professor of nursing and director of the Department of Nursing's graduate and doctor of nursing practice (DNP) programs at The University of Scranton, was re-elected as chair of the board for the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) for 2020. This will be her second term.
CCNE is an autonomous accrediting agency that ensures the quality and integrity of baccalaureate and graduate nursing education programs and nurse residency and fellowship programs. The University's nursing programs hold CCNE accreditation.
Dr. Hanson holds certifications as an Adult Clinical Nurse Specialist, Adult Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner and maintains a current part-time family nurse practitioner practice. She also maintains numerous professional memberships.
Dr. Hanson has published more than 30 papers in national and international peer-reviewed journals including Nursing Research, Western Journal of Nursing Research, The Journal for Nurse Practitioners, Nursing Education Perspectives, Journal of Health Management and Public Health, The Journal of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, American Journal of Critical Care, The American Journal for Nurse Practitioners, American Journal of Nursing, and Nursing Management. Her research interests include cigarette smoking, women's health, cross-cultural study, adolescents' risk behaviors and primary health care.
In addition, Dr. Hanson has been very successful at securing grant funding and has successfully authored federal grants for the graduate nursing program totaling more than three million dollars.
Dr. Hanson earned her bachelor's degree from Cedar Crest College and her master's and doctoral degrees from the University of Pennsylvania. She joined the faculty at University in 1996.
Nursing Faculty Member Re-elected as CCNE Chair
Nursing professor Mary Jane Hanson, Ph.D., was re-elected as chair for the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.
This article originally appeared in Campus Corner, our student blog.
On Wednesday, Nov. 6, the University held its inaugural Fail Forward Panel for faculty, staff and students. The panel featured Christine Black, J.D., Bobby Davis, Ph.D., Michael Fennie, Ph.D. and Billie Tadros, Ph.D. They were vulnerable in sharing their stories of adversity, failure and resilience to the 300-person audience.
Often times people only share the good in their lives. This panel acknowledged the bad to help others understand that they are not alone in their struggles. In addition, the panel's shared stories were great examples of how failure can lead to success.
"If we are willing to be authentic with one another, sharing our struggles and not just our joys, we are able to develop more meaningful connections which can sustain us through challenging times in our lives," Dean Lauren Rivera, a moderator on the panel, said.
Sometimes failures can feel like the end of the world, especially for students. The Center for Health Education and Wellness (CHEW) set up "Fail it Forward" boards around campus for people to share their failures with the school community. This public display helped students come to the realization that they are not alone, and that everybody fails at some point in their life. The responses on the boards ranged from sleeping through classes and failing exams to car accidents and tripping in public.
"The 'Fail it Forward' boards are recognizing that everyone struggles, but that it's okay and we have an amazing community here at Scranton that will help you move forward," said Cory Freivald '20, one of CHEW's Peer Health Educator Leaders.
Overall, the Fail Forward initiative encouraged the community to focus on their passions.
"Unfortunately, social media offers a very curated look at life and makes it easy for students who are struggling to feel like they are alone when this is absolutely not the case," Dean Rivera said. "My prayer is that the Fail Forward Panel helped students to recognize they are not alone in their struggles and failures. They can bounce back from these challenges by looking at them as opportunities to learn and to grow."
The Fail Forward initiative was made possible with support from Strategic Initiative Funding.
"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." – Winston Churchill
See more student stories like this one in Campus Corner.
Panel Reminds Students to 'Fail Forward'
On Wednesday, Nov. 6, the University held its inaugural Fail Forward Panel for faculty, staff and students.
Still looking for sites that may be suitable for your Community-Based Learning (CBL)hours? Here are some one-time events:
*Girls on the Run 5K - Scranton High School on Saturday, Nov. 23, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. being a race volunteer. Contact lori.hoinowski@scranton.edu
*Elm Park Church - Linden and Jefferson Ave right on campus! Wed Nov 13, Thurs Nov 15 and Saturday, Nov. 16, all day, helping with their coat giveaway. Contact sadski99@comcast.net
*American Red Cross Blood Drive - Long Center on Nov. 19 and 20 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Contact heidi@daleo2@redcross.org
As always, check with your instructor regarding CBL guidelines for your course. Questions? ellen.judge@scranton.edu
Volunteer Service Opportunity
Still looking for sites that may be suitable for your Community-Based Learning hours? Here's some one time events...
Dec. 4 Noon. Schemel Forum World Affairs Luncheon Seminar: "Reckoning with Contested History as an Essential Part of Sustaining Democracy" presented by Liz Sevcenko, director of the Rutgers Newark Humanities Action Lab. Rose Room, Brennan Hall. Registration required. Fees vary. Call 570-941-6206 or email alicen.morrison@scranton.edu.
Dec. 7 8 p.m. (Prelude begins at 7 p.m.) Performance Music: "52nd Annual Noel Night" featuring The University of Scranton Singers and Chamber Ensembles. Houlihan-McLean Center. Free. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Dec. 15 7:30 p.m. Performance Music: "Empty Stocking Fund Benefit Concert" featuring Ken McGraw with Brass and Ivory. Houlihan-McLean Center. Admission: one new unwrapped toy, new toiletry items or a monetary donation. Call 570-941-7624 or email music@scranton.edu.
Dec. 25 8 a.m. Community Christmas Day Breakfast. Doors open at 8 a.m., Fresh Food Company, DeNaples Center. Free. No reservations necessary. Call 570-941-7401 or email info@scranton.edu.
University Announces December Events
The following is a list of public University of Scranton events taking place during December 2019.
Attention all students pursuing a career in Health care: Please join us for a lecture titled, "Sexual and Gender Minority Cultural Humility in Healthcare 101: Impact on Healthcare Disparities" on Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2019, at 6 p.m. in the Moskovitz Theater on the 4th floor of The DeNaples Center. Dr. Karla Bell, PT will be discussing a foundation for culturally sensitive communication, and professional duties related to sexual and gender minorities.
This lecture is sponsored by the Office of Equity and Diversity's Diversity Initiative Grant in collaboration with the PT and OT departments. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Dr. Janette Scardillo, PT at janette.scardillo@scranton.edu or x5952.
Sexual/Gender Minority Issues in Healthcare
Please join us for a lecture titled, "Sexual and Gender Minority Cultural Humility in Healthcare 101: Impact on Healthcare Disparities" on Tuesday Nov. 19, 2019, at 6 p.m. in the Moskovitz Theater.
What is Beyond the Commons?
Beyond the Commons is a dinner series that gives students the opportunity to network with Scranton alumni who share common interests or majors. Each dinner is hosted in downtown Scranton, free of charge. This year it will be held Nov. 22 at 5:30 p.m.
These dinners offer great networking opportunities and they are a checkmark on all FANS members' road map to a letter of recommendation!
Sign up now, dinner seating is limited: text uosbtc2019 to 41444 or visit: igfn.us/f/22th/n
Beyond the Commons, Student Dinner with Alumni!
Beyond the Commons is a dinner series that gives students the opportunity to network with Scranton alumni who share common interests or majors.
The Jesuit Center is pleased to offer the Ignatian Leadership Program and Footsteps of Ignatius Pilgrimage for 2019/2020.
Pilgrims will travel through Spain and Italy visiting the important sites in the life of St. Ignatius Loyola and the early Jesuits, including Loyola Castle (family home, birthplace, and location of his conversion), the cave at Manresa, Montserrat, Vatican City, Church of the Gesu, and Gregorian University.
The Pilgrimage will begin with the fourth cohort of the University of Scranton Ignatian Leadership Program, an opportunity to meet once a month to examine important texts and works in preparation for the pilgrimage.
The monthly meetings will begin with an orientation meeting on November 22 with the Pilgrimage taking place from June 14, 2020 to June 24, 2020.
An expanded description of the Pilgrimage and mostly meeting schedule can be found on the Jesuit Center website.
Please submit your application via email (ryan.sheehan@scranton.edu) by Nov. 18, 2019.
Please be sure to review the dates of the monthly meetings prior to applying. Although space will be limited, I encourage all interested individuals to apply.
Jesuit Center Ignatian Pilgrimage and Leadership Program
Below is a note from University President Scott R. Pilarz, S.J. to the University community.
Dear Members of the University Community,
This month marks the 30th anniversary of the assassination of the Jesuit martyrs of El Salvador at the Universidad Centroamericana (UCA), a Jesuit university in the nation's capital. For many years, the UCA has been a model for Jesuit universities around the world for its very public commitment to the service of faith, the promotion of justice, and the work of reconciliation. The UCA serves as a reminder to us all that Jesuit universities should work to transform culture. As many of you know, The University of Scranton has a special relationship with the UCA, with administrators, faculty, staff, students, alumni, board members, and donors having visited through multiple programs over the last 30 years to express solidarity with the Salvadoran people and work to build a more just, peaceful society there.
The University will offer a series of events this month to honor the work of our martyrs and the Salvadoran people. Please join us in doing the following:
Volunteer Opportunity: Serve and clean at the Seasons of Love dinner at the Church of the Good Shepherd on Sunday, Nov. 10, from 12:00 noon until 3:30 p.m. Transportation will be provided from the university. Please contact Pat Vaccaro at patricia.vaccarro@scranton.edu to register and with questions. Sponsored by The Ellacuría Initiative and the Center for Service & Social Justice.
Prayers of Hope for DACA Table Sit: We will participate in the Ignatian Solidarity Network (ISN) initiative Prayers of Hope to show support for and solidarity with DACA recipients on Tuesday, November 12, The DeNaples Center 2nd floor, 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., as the U.S. Supreme Court begins hearing the case on the legality of the Trump Administration ending the program. Information about the Martyrs as well as the upcoming events will be included. Sponsored by The Ellacuría Initiative, the Office of Community & Government Relations, and Campus Ministries.
Mass and Donation Drive: On Thursday, Nov. 14, at 4:30 p.m. in The McIlhenny Ballroom, we will hold a Mass to commemorate the martyrs and to commission the group attending the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice in DC. Donations of soup, cereal, and socks will be collected at Mass. Sponsored by Campus Ministries and the Center for Service & Social Justice.
Global Insights, El Salvador: Students, faculty, and staff share their international experiences of El Salvador, with a light lunch of Salvadoran cuisine served, on Thursday, Nov. 21, 11:30 a.m. -12:45 p.m., in Brennan Hall Rose Room. Sponsored by The Office of Global Education, The Office of Residence Life, The Cross Cultural Centers, and the Office of Equity and Diversity. RSVP to international@scranton.edu.
Our celebration of El Salvador will continue throughout the academic year, culminating in March with a commissioning Mass for those participating in Spring Break service projects as well as marking the 40th Anniversary of the assassination of St. Oscar Romero.
We at The University of Scranton honor the memory of our martyrs and vow to continue their work.
In the words of the poet, T.S. Elliot, in his play Murder in the Cathedral, "For the blood of the martyrs shall enrich the earth, shall create the holy places. For wherever a saint has dwelt, wherever a martyr has given his blood for the blood of Christ, there is holy ground, and the sanctity shall not depart from it….from such ground springs that which forever renews the earth."
Scott R. Pilarz, S.J.
Commemoration the 30th Anniversary of the Martyrs of El Salvador
This month marks the 30th anniversary of the assassination of the Jesuit martyrs of El Salvador at the Universidad Centroamericana (UCA), a Jesuit university in the nation's capital.
Strategic intelligence analyst and author Avi Melamed will present "An Inside Look: At the War in Syria" on Sunday, Nov. 17 at 7 p.m. in the Kane Forum of Leahy Hall. The lecture, presented by the University's Panuska College of Professional Studies, is free and open to the public.
The lecture further explores the topic introduced to the University's incoming class of 2023 as part of the Royal Reads Program, which this year selected "The Bread of Angels," a memoir about Stephanie Saldaña's journey into Syria under the Baathist regime, as the book that all incoming students would read then discuss further during the academic year.
Melamed is a former Israeli intelligence official and senior official on Arab affairs. He is the author of "Inside the Middle East: Making Sense of the Most Dangerous and Complicated Region on Earth," which offers a unique insight into the Arab world, challenges widely-accepted perceptions and provides a guide to make sense of the events unfolding in the region.
For information about the lecture, phone 570-941-6305.
Expert on the Middle East to Discuss Syria
Strategic intelligence analyst and author Avi Melamed will discuss the war in Syria at the University Nov. 17.
Random Acts of Kindness is hosting its annual "World Kindness Day" event from 1 p.m.-4 p.m at First Floor DeNaples on Wednesday, Nov. 13! There will be a "photo booth," kindness cards, RAKS rock painting, candy and more! We hope to see you all there for cards, crafts, candy and KINDNESS! Have an amazing day, ALWAYS STAY HUMBLE AND KIND! :)
RAKS World Kindness Day
Random Acts of Kindness is hosting its annual "World Kindness Day" event from 1 p.m.-4 p.m at First Floor DeNaples on Wednesday, Nov. 13!
The rule of not discussing politics or religion will be broken at an event co-hosted by The University of Scranton together with several community partner organizations on Monday, Nov. 18. A facilitated dialogue called "Faith and Politics: A Conversation" will take place at 5:30 p.m. on the fourth floor of Shopland Hall, Scranton Cultural Center. Reservations are required to attend the event, which is free of charge and open to the public and will include light dinner refreshments.
Participants will be asked how their faith or worldview shapes their political views. This program invites individuals from different backgrounds and political affiliations to share their experiences, stories and concerns through structured dialogue sessions to build better understanding among neighbors in Northeastern Pennsylvania.
The University has organized similar discussions on campus since 2017 as part of an ongoing "Bursting Our Political Bubbles" Dialogue Initiative, which blends the reflective, structured dialogue methods of national non-profit Essential Partners with St. Ignatius of Loyola's teachings of discernment and reflection.
"Faith and Politics: A Conversation" is sponsored by The University of Scranton, in partnership with the Greater Scranton MLK Commission, Lackawanna County Department of Arts and Culture, Marywood University, Penn State Scranton and the Scranton Area Ministerium.
Reservations can be made by calling 570-941-4419 or emailing community@scranton.edu.
Faith and Politics Conversation Encouraged Nov. 18
The University will co-host with community partners a facilitated dialogue on Faith and Politics at the Scranton Cultural Center Nov. 18.
In mid-October, University of Scranton occupational therapy (OT) students and faculty were invited to present their research endeavors at the annual Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Association conference in King of Prussia. Students and faculty joined more than 500 occupational therapy students, faculty and clinicians from across the state.
Thirty-five OT students presented their faculty-mentored research projects during four poster presentation sessions. Students were accompanied by three OT faculty including Deborah Budash, Ph.D., OTR/L, Chandra Dombroski, MSLPT, DPT and Julie Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV, CLA, FAOTA.
While at the POTA conference, students and faculty interacted with colleagues and potential employers. Many attended informational presentations on varieties of topics ranging from hospice care to incontinence to fieldwork challenges to the opioid epidemic and more. Exhibitors also provided information and samples of upcoming therapeutic products and literature.
Karlie Ashcroft, a senior OT student, also served as POTA's new student representative to the board of directors.
The following were presented at POTA by University of Scranton OT students and faculty:
Preferred Lighting Levels for Reading in College Students - Julie Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV, CLA, FAOTA; Kaitlyn Pittsman, OTS; Megan Schane, OTS
School-Based Occupational Therapy for Children with Anxiety - Kate Horohoe, OTS; Kara Grifonetti, OTS
Occupational Therapy for Caregivers of Early Onset Dementia - Caroline Hickey, OTS; Marcella Guilfoyle, OTS, [Julie Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV, CLA, FAOTA]
Cueing Interventions for Freezing Gait in Parkinson's Disease - Marie Acker, OTS; Melissa Busch, OTS; Chandra Dombroski, LPT, DPT
An Exploration of OT in Hospice - Deborah Budash, Ph.D., OTR/L
Resilience: A Factor in Spinal Cord Injury Recovery - Lucy Fulton, OTS; Emily Errickson, OTS [Julie Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV, CLA, FAOTA]
Interventions for Upper Extremity Spasticity Secondary TBI - Megan Farrell, OTS; Fallon Colman, OTS; [Julie Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV, CLA, FAOTA]
Reminiscence Therapy and Virtual Reality - Alessia Dolgetta, OTS; [Julie Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV, CLA, FAOTA]
Virtual Reality and Upper Extremity Rehabilitation Post-Stroke - Kaitlin Kenyon, OTS; Gabriela Lins, OTS; Catherine Moloney, OTS; Julie Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV, CLA, FAOTA
Sustainable Discharge for Adults with Serious Mental Illness - Mariah Hawley, OTS [Julie Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV, FAOTA]
Treating Spasticity Using Occupational Therapy and Botox - Elizabeth Aberant, OTS; Kayley Carnes, OTS; Chandra Dombroski, MS/LPT, DPT
Animal Assisted Intervention for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder - Nicholas Anthony Chiara, OTS; Melissa Agostinho, OTS; Chandra Dombroski, BS/MS, LPT, DPT
Lifestyle Redesign®: An Option for Opioid Addiction? - Nicole Gervasi, OTS; Anna Giannantonio, OTS; [Julie Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV, FAOTA ]
Physical Exercise Compared to Environmental Modifications for Dementia - Devon Tirney, OTS; Colleen O'Rourke, OTS; [Julie Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV, FAOTA ]
Efficacy of Mirror Therapy for Stroke - Emily Koerner, OTS; Meghan Murtha, OTS; Amanda Hurd, OTS; Julie Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV, CLA, FAOTA
The OT as Educator: Helping Patients Understand Secondary Side Effects of Spinal Cord Injury - Deborah Budash, PhD, OTR/L
Vestibular Rehabilitation Program versus Traditional Physical Rehabilitation - Kimberly Plaspohl, OTS; Erin Sullivan, OTS; [Julie Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV, CLA, FAOTA]
Virtual Reality versus Mirror Therapy for Phantom Pain - Sara Codispoti, OTS; Sarah Aberasturi, OTS; Chandra Dombroski, LPT, DPT
Efficacy of Constraint-Induced Therapy on Upper Extremity Function in Clients Status Post-Stroke - Jenna Neyen, OTS; Sarah Leavy, OTS; Allison Marut, OTS; Julie Nastasi, ScD, OTD, OTR/L, SCLV, FAOTA
Students and Faculty Attend Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Association Conference
In mid-October, University of Scranton occupational therapy (OT) students and faculty were invited to present their research endeavors at the annual Pennsylvania Occupational Therapy Association conference in King of Prussia.
The University of Scranton Players will present the Northeastern Pennsylvania premiere of Jaclyn Backhaus' breakout play "Men on Boats" directed by Jennifer Rhoads. Backhaus' play has quickly ascended to the status of essential theatre after its 2016 Off-Broadway run. University Players will present "Men on Boats" Nov.15-17 and 22-24. Friday and Saturday shows are at 8pm. Sunday's shows are at 2pm. All shows in the Royal Theatre in the McDade Center for the Literary and Performing Arts on the University's campus.
It's 1869 and famed explorer John Wesley Powell leads a quartet of boats down the Grand Canyon to chart the course of the Colorado River. He takes with him 10 explorers, each with his own motivations, history and peculiarities. Jaclyn Backhaus' "Men on Boats" takes Powell's whitewater voyage and gives it a 21st century twist, with the male roles being performed by women. This gender swap creates hilarious and profound results – whose stories do we tell? What does it mean to "discover"? How is history created? And, who is it for?
The company of "Men on Boats" features Keidy Barrientos of Port Jervis, New York; Reilly Charles of Rockaway Park, New York; Bridget Fry of Hightstown, New Jersey; Natalie Gray of Glenside; Katie Karpiak of Scranton; Emmalee Lafean of Basking Ridge, New Jersey; Hannah Mackes of Tafton, Ellen O'Brien Sherry of Kingston, Shaye Santos of Wrightstown, New Jersey; Reagan White of Manahawkin, New Jersey; and Gillian Williams-Mayers of Scranton.
For tickets, contact the Players box office at 570-941-4318 or visit thescrantonplayers.com. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for senior citizens, students, and University of Scranton faculty and staff. Performances during the second weekend are free for first-year students at the University.
For more information, contact players@scranton.edu or find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
University Players to Perform Men on Boats
The University of Scranton Players will perform Men on Boats by Jaclyn Backhaus Nov. 15-17 and 22-24.
The University of Scranton String Orchestra will perform in concert on Friday, Nov. 15, at 7:30 p.m. in the University's Houlihan-McLean Center (Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue). The concert is free of admission charge and open to the public.
The program focuses on music for string orchestra written by late 20th and early 21st century composers. Selections include dance-based music from a variety of cultures, such as Mosier's "Baltic Dances" and "American Reel," Newbold's "Fire Dance," and Spata's "Maharaja," as well as Hofeldt's "She Will Hang The Night With Stars," Atwell's "Drifen" and Balmages' "30,000 and Forever," and more.
The University of Scranton String Orchestra is a 33-member ensemble comprised of members of the University community – mostly undergraduate students, joined by a few members of the faculty and staff – who are brought together by a mutual love of music-making.
For more information, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music.
String Orchestra to Perform Nov. 15
Performance Music will present In Concert with the University's String Orchestra Fri., Nov. 15, at 7:30 p.m.
Students, join Dr. Michael Friedman in a travel course to Staunton, Virginia.
ENLT 184: Shakespeare in Staunton
Couse meets:
MWF 1-1:50 (from Jan. 29-Mar. 13)
Travel component (Mar. 15-22, during Spring Break)
MWF 1-1:50 (from Mar. 23-Apr. 3)
-Transportation to Staunton, Virginia, for a one-week residency at the American Shakespeare Center (ASC)
-Tickets to five live performances of plays by Shakespeare
-Two filmed perfomances of ASC production of Shakespeare plays
-Fifteen tours, lectures, and workshops on various theatrical topics
-Excursions to the Frontier Culture Museum and the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library
-Final Banquet
Project cost: $1,000 (depending on number of students registered)
Registration is required. Please see Dr. Michael Friedman, CLP 210 or email michael.friedman@scranton.edu or for more information.
This course counts as a Humanities Elective (CL) or as a major elective for English majors. It may be taken as part of a student's regular load in the Spring semester, so it offers a way to take a travel course without adding the extra tuition costs associated with Intersession or Summer travel courses.
Spring 2020 Domestic Travel Course Offering
The College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Scranton and WVIA are proud to present a screening of the documentary film " Ken Burns Presents 'College Behind Bars.'" A film by Lynn Novick. Produced by Sarah Botstein.*
Followed by a panel discussion and audience Q&A about the forthcoming University of Scranton/SCI Dallas Prison Education Initiative.
With panelists Dr. Harry Dammer, Dr. Chris Haw, Michael Goyne (SCI Dallas), and moderated by Chris Norton (WVIA).
Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019
Moskovitz Theater
DeNaples Center 401
*The film screening is a 35-minute preview of the documentary which will air on WVIA/PBS on November 25 and 26.
College Behind Bars - Screening and Panel Discussion
The College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Scranton and WVIA are proud to present a screening of the documentary film " Ken Burns Presents 'College Behind Bars'" followed by a panel discussion and audience Q&A about the forthcoming University of Scranton/SCI Dallas Prison Education Initiative.
The University will hold several regional Christmas parties throughout the holiday season. For a master list of this year's regional parties, visit Scranton.edu/ChristmasParties.
The University will also hold its Deck The Decades alumni participation challenge for the second year in a row. This year, the decade of alumni that shows the most Scranton spirit by collecting the most party regsitrants or making the most gifts to any University cause will win the challenge, and participating alumni from that decade will receive a Scranton ornament. Last year, the 2010s won the inaugural challenge. To register for the challenge and/or make a gift, visit Scranton.edu/ChristmasParties.
On Dec. 5, alumni and friends of the University in the Philadelphia area can celebrate together at The Bellevue Hotel, 200 South Broad Street, Philadelphia. To register, visit this link.
On Dec. 6, alumni and friends in the Washington, D.C. area can celebrate together at The Willard Intercontinental, 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C.. To register, visit this link.
Also on Dec. 6, alumni and friends in New Jersey can celebrate together at The Madison Hotel, 1 Convent Road, Morristown, New Jersey. To register, visit this link.
On Dec. 7, alumni and friends in New Jersey can Brunch With Santa at Basking Ridge Country Club, 185 Madisonville Road, Basking Ridge, New Jersey. To register, visit this link.
On Dec. 8, alumni and friends in NEPA can ride the Scranton Express via the Stourbridge Line and enjoy a visit from Santa, cookies, cocoa, candy canes and silver bells at The Stourbridge Line, 812 Main Street, Honesdale. To register, visit this link.
On Dec. 11, alumni and friends in Harrisburg can celebrate together at Appalachia Brewing Company, 50 Cameron Street, Harrisburg. To register, visit this link.
Also on Dec. 11, alumni and friends in NEPA can celebrate together at a Wine & Paint Night on campus; registtration will open soon.
Alumni and friends in New England will also have the chance to celebrate together Dec. 11 at the Boston Christmas Party; registration will open soon.
On Dec. 14, alumni and friends in the Philadelphia area can celebrate the season at Longwood Gardens, 1001 Longwood Road, Kennett Square. To register, visit this link.
And, on Dec. 18, alumni and friends in New York City can celebrate together at The New York Athletic Club, 180 Central Park South, New York, New York. To register, visit this link.
University Announces 2019 Christmas Parties
Spend the holidays with your Royal Family.
Nearly 30 Scranton Golf alumni recently teed off at Glenmaura National Golf Club at the Karpovich Cup 2019, an annual event that supports Scranton Golf programs in honor of legendary Head Coach Ed Karpovich.
Erik Meyer '15 and Eric Montella '16 took home this year's title. For more information on Scranton Golf, visit this link.
Alumni Support Scranton Golf At Karpovich Cup 2019
Golf Alumni support Scranton Golf programs at annual event.
Several alumni of the Chemistry program recently returned to campus to tour the Loyola Science Center, visit with faculty members and reconnect with fellow graduates of the program.
To see more photos of the event, visit this link.
Alumni Gather For Chemistry Alumni Reception
Alumni celebrate together in the Loyola Science Center.
Nearly 100 alumni, family and friends of The University of Scranton recently attended the Lady Royals Tip-Off Dinner to celebrate the beginning of this year's basketball season.
At the dinner, the University honored Canio Cianci '68, former men's and women's basketball assistant coach, with the Mike Strong Award.
For more information on the Lady Royals, visit this link.
Alumni Gather For Lady Royals Tip-Off Dinner
Scores of alumni turn out for annual event.
What's new with you? To submit a Class Note, visit the Class Notes Submission Page.
Walter Barry '59, West Brandywine, has published a new book called "A Caregiver's Journey Through Alzheimer's," a story about love, companionship, and devotion. It is a story about a couple joining hands and going the distance in a difficult fight against an insidious disease. The storyline is similar to what millions of caregivers endure every day, yet is very personal.
Archbishop Joseph S. Marino '75, Birmingham, Alabama, was named president of the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy in Rome by Pope Francis. Martino will be only the second U.S. prelate to head the Rome-based school, which was founded more than 300 years ago.
Joseph McComb '94, D.O., MBA, Newtown Square, was recently appointed vice chair for quality and performance improvement and associate professor, Department of Anesthesiology, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University.
Joseph Hart G'96, Mantua, New Jersey, and his wife, Lisa David-Hart, have opened an art gallery at the Village on High in Millville, New Jersey. Joseph and Lisa have permanent brain injuries and have experienced strokes. The gallery displays Lisa's beautiful paintings, the works of individuals with disabilities, and veterans.
Michael A. Malia '97, Manasquan, New Jersey, a partner with Peri & Stewart, was installed as the 54th president of the New Jersey Defense Association, New Jersey's Defense Voice, in June 2019.
Paul Ryan '97, Chantilly, Virginia, was promoted to senior tax manager at PBMares, LLP, a leading accounting and business-consulting firm.
Jamie Heenan '99, Scranton, opened the doors to her business, Keep Well, at the Scranton Public Market in the Marketplace at Steamtown, on October 5. Keep Well is a wellness bar which offers a variety of healthy options that change according to season. Keep Well supports local agriculture as well as the environment and purchases their ingredients from local farmers' markets when possible.
Erin Elizabeth Jennings Cody '01, Vestal, New York, was selected as director of Harpur Edge at Binghamton University, SUNY and will start in her new role in January 2020 where she will work to connect alumni and employers with over 12,000 undergraduate and graduate students in the Liberal Arts and Sciences each year through high impact learning experiences that assist them in deepening the edge they gain from their Liberal Arts and Science degrees.
Kelly Parent Huestis '01, G'02, Frederick, Maryland, a physical therapy graduate, was elected as the Section on Women's Health (APTA) secretary, effective 2020-2023.
Jennifer Kelly Dominiquini '93, Sugar Land, Texas, was recently named chief digital experience officer at TDECU, Houston's largest credit union.
James J. Balzano '52, Easton
Edward J. Brislin '52, Orange, California
John Krochta '52, Ruskin, Florida
Msgr. Francis J. Beeda '56, Wilkes Barre
Dominic R. Scott '56, Clarks Summit
Sheldon Liberman '60, Scranton
Robert J. Gaudio G'62, Drums
John Brier '63, Spring Brook Township
John D. Cenera, Jr. '77, West Pittston
Joseph Hessmiller '78, Bethlehem
William F. Jackson '80, Olyphant
Carl J. Vonden Steinen, Psy.D. '82, Lafayette, New York
A son, Owen Michael, to Andrew and Erin Elizabeth Jennings Cody '01, Vestal, New York
A son, Michael Joseph, to Mike '01 and Julie Quinn Husek '03, Chalfont
A son, Patrick Holden, to Patrick '06, G'16 and Nadia Gougeon Dunn '05, G'06, G'17, Warwick
A son, Daniel Francis, to Daniel '07 and Michelle Constantino Crowe '07, Commack, New York
A daughter, Rosemary Margaret, to Arlen '07 and Eileen Honan Stabbe '07, North Haven, Connecticut
A son, Hank Joseph, to Rich Kaminski '09 and Georgia Rose '09, Montclair, New Jersey
A daughter, Natalie Elizabeth, to Alex'12, G'15 and Jennie Hofmann Rizzi '12,G'15, Flemington, New Jersey
Alumni Class Notes, November 2019
Share your story with your Royal Family.
The Office of Equity and Diversity will be holding four information sessions on the new policies regarding reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and religious accommodations for employees.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accommodations Policy Information Sessions:
• Tuesday, Nov. 12 @ 3:30 p.m. (Brennan 228)
• Wednesday, Dec. 11 @ 2:00 p.m. (Brennan 228)
Religious Accommodations Policy Information Sessions:
• Monday, November 18 @ 3:30 p.m. (Brennan 228)
• Thursday, December 5 @ 2:30 p.m. (Brennan 228)
Each session will last up to 60 minutes. All sessions are drop-in sessions and no registration is required.
scranton.edu/equity-diversity/laws.shtml
Questions? Feel free to contact our office at elizabeth.garcia2@scranton.edu or at 570-941-6645
Please mark your calendars accordingly and we hope to see you there!
New Policy Information Sessions for Employees
A $1.3 million National Science Foundation (NSF) grant awarded to University of Scranton physics and electrical engineering professor Nathaniel Frissell, Ph.D., seeks to harness the power of a network of licensed amateur radio operators to better understand and measure the effects of weather in the upper levels of Earth's atmosphere.
The highly-competitive grant awarded by NSF's Aeronomy Program for the project titled Distributed Arrays of Small Instruments (DASI) will be implemented over a three-year period. As principal investigator, Dr. Frissell, a space physicist, will lead a collaborative team that will develop modular, multi-instrument, ground-based space science observation equipment and data collection and analysis software. He will also recruit multiple universities and ham radio users to operate the network of "Personal Space Weather Stations" developed.
The space weather equipment will be developed at two levels of sophistication: one at a low-cost, easy-to-use level for the ham radio operators; and one that is more complex for university partners that will allow for the collection of additional data.
"The equipment and network allows us to measure and characterize ionospheric and geomagnetic short-term, small scale variability on a large geographic scale in order to understand the response of the ionosphere to sources from above (space weather) and below (atmospheric forcing)," said Dr. Frissell in the grant project proposal. "By designing Personal Space Weather Stations variants at multiple price points, open sourcing the hardware and software, and directly engaging with the ham radio community, this project maximizes the chances of widespread adoption of this system."
In the U.S., there are more than 730,000 licensed amateur radio operators and nearly 3 million worldwide. For this initiative, Dr. Frissell will target the ham radio community through the Ham Radio Science Citizen Investigation collective, which he leads, and the TAPR (Tucson Amateur Packet Radio) amateur radio engineering organization.
According to Dr. Frissell, measuring and better understanding modulations in the upper atmosphere – specifically the ionosphere – is important because these changes can affect radio transmissions as well as satellites, which then can affect the internet, cellphones, GPS systems and more. He also explained that radio remains a very important communication tool because it is a way of communicating worldwide that doesn't rely on infrastructure. Radio communications can bounce (refract) off the ionosphere and return to earth. This process can repeat multiple times – for example, allowing people in the U.S. to communication with people in Australia – without the use of expensive satellites.
Already published research by Dr. Frissell using data collected by existing Ham radio users shows the sensitivity of the existing technology and the capacity of network of licensed radio enthusiasts to measure modulations produced in the ionosphere. In the study "Modeling Amateur Radio Soundings of the Ionospheric Response to the 2017 Great American Eclipse," published in Geophysical Research Letters, Dr. Frissell measured changes in the ionosphere during the solar eclipse. The data he used was collected by hundreds of licensed ham radio operators in the U.S. who participated in a contest he ran that allowed him to collect the data he needed for the analysis. The new initiative expands this model and provides additional equipment to add to the data to be collected and analyzed.
Collaborators in the NSF funded DASI project with Dr. Frissell include: William Engelke and Travis Atkison, Ph.D., of the University of Alabama; David Kazdan, Ph.D., and Soumyajit Mandal, Ph.D., of Case Western University; Hyomin Kim, Ph.D., of the New Jersey Institute of Technology; Phil Erickson, Ph.D., of MIT's Haystack Observatory; and Scotty Cowling of TAPR and Zephyr Engineering; among others.
Dr. Frissell joined the faculty at Scranton in the fall of 2019. He earned a doctorate and a master's degree in electrical and computer engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in Blacksburg, and a bachelor's degree in physics and music education from Montclair State University in New Jersey. He is the founder and lead organizer of the international citizen science space physics research collective known as the Ham Radio Science Citizen Investigation (HamSCI.org).
Professor Awarded $1.3 Million NSF Grant
Nathaniel Frissell, Ph.D., assistant professor of physics and electrical engineering, was awarded a highly-competitive $1.3 million NSF grant.
Performance Music at The University of Scranton will pay homage to the great composer Vaclav Nelhybel with a concert celebrating the centennial year of his birth.
The Vaclav Nelhybel Centennial Concert will take place Saturday, Nov. 23, at 7:30 p.m. inside the University's Houlihan-McLean Center, Mulberry Street and Jefferson Avenue. The performance will feature The University of Scranton Symphonic Band and internationally acclaimed trumpeter Christian Jaudes. Admission is free, with seating on a first-come, first-seated basis.
This concert carries a special resonance, given Nelhybel's long and close relationship with the University. At the time of his death on March 22, 1996, he was the composer-in-residence at Scranton and a beloved mentor to Performance Music Conductor and Director Cheryl Y. Boga.
The composer's influence is still very much alive at the University, as it is throughout the world. For the past 20 years Scranton has served as the home of The Nelhybel Collection, which includes Nelhybel's published and unpublished compositions, personal papers, manuscript scores and other valuable materials, all impeccably curated by the composer's widow.
Among other highlights, the concert will include a performance of Nelhybel's epic work, "De Profundis," featuring Jaudes, a faculty member at The Juilliard School and trumpeter on numerous Grammy Award-winning Broadway and studio recordings.
The concert will also feature a poem written in Nelhybel's honor by Louisiana poet/playwright John Doucet, and reminiscences from University alumni who worked with Nelhybel. Members of the composer's family will be in attendance.
"This is the official Nelhybel centennial concert," Boga said. "The concert band is very excited to do a program comprised almost completely of music by our favorite composer, in honor of his memory."
It's no overstatement to say Nelhybel was among the most acclaimed, respected and prolific composers of the second half of the 20th century.
Born in 1919 in Polanka, Czechoslovakia, the Jesuit-educated Nelhybel studied composition and conducting at the Conservatory of Music in Prague, and musicology at Prague University and the University of Fribourg in Switzerland.
Nelhybel first made his name in the years following World War II, when he served as composer and conductor of Swiss National Radio and as a lecturer at the University of Fribourg. In 1950, he became the first musical director of Radio Free Europe in Munich, Germany, a position he stayed in until moving to the United States in 1957. Nelhybel became an American citizen in 1962 and lived for many years in New York City and Newtown, Connecticut, before settling in Scranton during the last decade of his life.
A staggeringly prolific composer, Nelhybel left behind a rich body of concertos, operas, chamber music pieces and dozens of compositions for symphony orchestra, symphonic band, chorus and smaller ensembles. More than 400 of his works were published during his lifetime, while many of his over 200 unpublished compositions are in the process of being published.
While Nelhybel wrote most of his works for professional performers, he also enjoyed composing original, challenging pieces for student musicians, and took a special delight in collaborating with them.
The University of Scranton Symphonic Band is a 75-member ensemble comprised of members of the University community from majors and departments spanning the curriculum. While none of the student players are music majors, they are united by their mutual love of making music.
For more information on the concert and The Nelhybel Collection, call 570-941-7624, email music@scranton.edu or visit scranton.edu/music.
Concert to Celebrate 100th Birthday of Composer
Performance Music will present the Vaclav Nelhybel Centennial Concert Saturday, Nov. 23, at 7:30 p.m. in the Houlihan-McLean Center.
The University of Scranton welcomed the third cohort of students into its doctor of business administration (DBA) program.
Douglas M. Boyle, DBA, associate professor, Accounting Department chair and DBA program director, faculty from the DBA program and DBA students from the first and second cohorts, joined together to welcome the new students into the program at an orientation session on campus.
Housed in the University's Kania School of Management, the DBA program began in the fall semester of 2017.
The University's DBA program, with a concentration in accounting, was developed to provide experienced practitioners with a practical pathway to an academic career. The program offers participants flexibility, while still providing for the development of the knowledge and skill set necessary to become a "scholarly academic" – one who is qualified to teach at a school of business that possesses or is seeking formal accreditation by Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International).
The incoming DBA students are:
Andrew J. Gregorowicz of Jessup;
Marissa Hoffmann of Smithtown, New York;
Gregory Kogan of Brooklyn, New York;
Laura B. Lamb of Pennellville, New York;
Marie S. Lopes of Pawtucket, Rhode Island;
Stasia H. Morlino of Plymouth Meeting;
Thomas K. Parker of Rock Hill, South Carolina;
Nicole M. Piotrowski of New York, New York;
Elizabeth S. Quaye of Laurelton, New York;
Natalie A. Roberts of Rosedale, New York;
Nadine S. Samuels of West Orange, New Jersey;
Jessie C. Wright of Poland, Ohio.
New Students Begin DBA Program at Scranton
The University welcomes its third cohort of students into the doctor of business administration (DBA) program.
Dear Members of the University Staff:
The Staff Senate would like to thank all staff members who took the time to recognize and share their colleague's accomplishments, sense of community, and dedication to excellence! The Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award would not exist without our caring community! THE MEG CULLEN-BROWN MAGIS AWARD WINNER for NOVEMBER is: CHRIS KRALL - Infrastructure
How long have you worked at the University?
Since Sept. 10, 1994
What is your title?
Senior Systems Engineer
What do you like best about your job?
Providing technologies to help people in their jobs
I like to run and bike
Chris will receive a certificate for $50 worth of complimentary food at our fabulous University food service outlets, as well as a reserved parking space for the month of their selection! Each monthly winner is also invited to the Senate Recognition luncheon in May to receive a certificate of appreciation. We congratulate our winner and all the other nominees for being recognized as "Magis" employees.
We hope you will join the Staff Senate in recognizing and nominating employees in the future and share our excitement for giving individuals the opportunity to be acknowledged for their outstanding efforts on behalf of our campus community.
The nominations must be submitted by the 29th of the month for the next drawing to pick a winner.
Click here to obtain a nomination card.
Click here to see past winners and nominees.
The card may be completed online and forwarded to Peggy Doolittle at peggydoolittle@scranton.edu. You may also print it out and send it to Peggy's office in 401 Louis Brown Hall. In addition, Nomination Cards will be available to Facilities Operations and University Police personnel through their supervisory chains of command.
Congratulations to Our Other November Magis Nominees:
Ann Keeler
Colleen Heckman
Autumn Forgione
Debbie Zielisnki
Daniela Teneva
Carlene Coombes
Will Geiger
Chris Krall
Shawn Beistline
IT Field Operations
Donna Cochrane-Kalinoski
Meg Cullen Brown Magis Award - November
Congratulations to our November winner, Chris Krall!
The University of Scranton announced the establishment of a scholarship to honor David F. St. Ledger '56, G'69. Established by the St. Ledger family, the David F. St. Ledger '56 Scholarship will be awarded to undergraduate students graduating from Forest City Regional High School or Carbondale Area High School who enroll at the University as an education, history or political science major. The scholarship will be awarded starting in the fall semester of 2020.
Following graduation from Benjamin Franklin High School in Carbondale, St. Ledger served in the U.S. Navy. He earned his bachelor's degree in political science from the University in 1956 and his master's degree in history in 1969. He taught courses in American history and government in the Carbondale School District for seven years, then taught in the Forest City School District until his retirement in 1995.
St. Ledger lived in the Carbondale area for most of his life. An active member of St. Rose of Lima Church, he served on several parish committees and was a lector for more than twenty-five years. He also served on the Board of Directors for the Carbondale Public Library and the Carbondale YMCA, and coached Little League Baseball.
St. Ledger passed away in 2017. His obituary can be seen here.
University to Offer New Scholarship in Fall 2020
The University of Scranton announced the establishment the David F. St. Ledger '56 Scholarship.
The University hosted a day-long series of panel discussions titled "The Crisis of Democracy Today: What Can the Humanities, Law, and Civic Activism Do to Address the Challenge?" as part of the formal launch for the Sondra H'87 and Morey Myers H'12 Distinguished Visiting Fellowship in the Humanities and Civic Engagement. The event took place on campus on Oct. 25.
The last of three-panel discussions on Oct. 25 focused on "How Can Law Address the Crisis of Democracy?" Panelists were: David Cole, J.D., legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union and the Hon. George J. Mitchell Professor in Law and Public Policy, Georgetown University; Nomi Stolzenberg, J.D., Nathan and Lilly Shapell Chair in Law, University of Southern California Gould School of Law; Marcia Greenberger, J.D., founder and co-president emerita of the National Women's Law Center; and President Judge Michael Barrasse, J.D. '78, G'78. Michael Fairbanks '79 H'06, chairman of the board, Silver Creek Medicines and fellow at the Weatherhead Institute for International Affairs at Harvard University, provided the introduction, and Joel Kemp, J.D., Ph.D., assistant professor of theology and religious studies at The University of Scranton, served as moderator.
In his opening remarks, Fairbanks utilized the example of Rwanda as a new, upcoming legal paradigm from which the United States may learn a way to approach its own challenges. "They've built something new in the law, and it's called 'building modern institutions on traditional values,'" said Fairbanks. "We go over there with fancy notions about privatize and democratize and liberalize, and they're so smart, they take a tiny bit of what those of us from the West said and then for the rest make up their own path." Fairbanks also noted that Sondra Myers served an integral role in Rwanda, writing a handbook about their institutions in Rwanda's official language, Kinyarwanda, so that children could learn about their country in their native tongue.
Following the opening remarks, the panelists introduced themselves with a comment on the state of the American democracy today. Judge Barrasse touched upon recent threats to the rule of law in the United States: "In Pennsylvania – in our city of brotherly love, Philadelphia – we now have a city that has declared itself a sanctuary city, essentially indicating laws that it's not going to enforce or support." Likewise, he added, some cities have asserted themselves as Second Amendment sanctuary cities, upholding the right to bear arms over federal law, all of which create a cause for concern. "If a citizen sees government officials choose not to follow law, then why should they?" he said. "Without the rule of law, we will have anarchy to follow."
Meanwhile, Atty. Cole addressed the institution's autocratic leaders of democratic societies target: namely, the press, non-government organizations, universities and religious institutions. "Why? Because each of these are places where people can come together in pursuit of their views and in check of governmental abuse," said Atty. Cole. In a democracy where the institutions of civil society are under attack, he continued, the First Amendment is critically important in protecting citizens' ability to criticize governmental authority, and people have spoken out in response to the threat against it through protests and membership in the ACLU, which has swelled to 1.8 million members. "People recognized the importance of these institution," Atty. Cole added. "Citizens will be our salvation."
For Atty. Greenberger, justice cannot be achieved without activism. "As a public interest lawyer, much of my work was to link activism and law, and that remains more true now than ever. In the Me Too movement, which arose certainly after the election, after the Women's March, women in Hollywood came forward. But what's not so well-known is that farmworker women contacted those women in Hollywood and told them how proud they were because they understood how hard it was to step forward," said Atty. Greenberger. "And these women in Hollywood were so blown away that they set up the Time's Up effort and supported a legal fund that would be available to help women in non-traditional jobs, who were often facing multiple kinds of discrimination, to have access to the law. That's how getting those stories out made a difference."
Atty. Stolzenberg called attention to a grave threat to democracy: the war against secularism. "In the United States, we have a long tradition of religious war against secularism by Protestant and Evangelical Christian groups, as well as some conservative Catholic discourse," she said, "but what's new is that anti-secularists now occupy unprecedented levels of power." Using Attorney General William Barr's speech at the University of Notre Dame, Atty. Stolzenberg illustrated the ways in which anti-secularists attack secularism: "They say secularism destroys traditional morals, that it's discrimination against their religious liberty. This is a discourse that is very dangerous to democracy."
Following their opening remarks, the moderator asked the panelists questions as did audience members. The program concluded with brief closing remarks by Sondra and Morey Myers.
The Sondra H'87 and Morey Myers H'12 Distinguished Visiting Fellowship in the Humanities and Civic Engagement, housed in the University's Slattery Center for the Humanities, will help to advance the University's efforts to bring renowned scholars, artists, and thinkers to Scranton to share their work and enrich cultural and civic activity at The University and in Scranton.
Panelists Consider Law, Autocracy and Democracy
Panelists discussing "How Can Law Address the Crisis of Democracy?" tackle autocracy, advocacy and the Constitution at a recent fellowship launch.
The University of Scranton has named Gerald Zaboski '87, G'95, vice president for enrollment management and external affairs.
"Gerry has faithfully served the University for 31 years, most recently as vice provost for enrollment management and external affairs," said Scott R. Pilarz, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, in an announcement to the University community of Zaboski's promotion. "Gerry works tirelessly for the University and has worked closely with me throughout my years at Scranton, providing guidance with strategic institutional communications. I greatly appreciate his leadership and his dedication to the Jesuit mission of the University."
In this position, Zaboski will provide overall strategic direction to the University's admissions and enrollment activities, financial aid, branding and marketing efforts, news and media relations, and community and government relations. He will also continue to serve as a member of the University's cabinet and as the leader for the University's Incident Management Team.
Zaboski joined the staff at the University in 1988. During his career at Scranton he served as executive assistant to the president, vice president for external affairs and vice president for alumni and public relations. He has also served on and chaired several committees including the University's 125th Anniversary Committee. Prior to joining the University, he worked as public information manager for the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce.
Zaboski serves on the board and executive committee of the Scranton Lackawanna Human Development Agency, and on the boards of Lackawanna Industrial Fund Enterprises and the Institute for Public Policy and Research. He also serves as treasurer of the West Wyoming Hose Company #1. He is a past president of the Scranton Lions Club.
A resident of West Wyoming, Zaboski earned his bachelor's and master's degrees from The University of Scranton and is a member of Alpha Epsilon Alpha and Alpha Sigma Nu honor societies.
Gerald Zaboski '87, G'95 Named Vice President
University of Scranton alumnus Gerald Zaboski was named vice president for enrollment management and external affairs.
The rule of not discussing politics or religion will be broken at an event co-hosted by The University of Scranton together with several community partner organizations on Nov. 18. A facilitated dialogue called "Faith and Politics: A Conversation" will take place at 5:30 p.m. on the fourth floor of Shopland Hall, Scranton Cultural Center. Reservations are required to attend the event, which is free of charge and open to the public and will include light dinner refreshments.
Reservations can be made by calling 570-941-4419 or emailing community@scranton.edu. For more information, visit scranton.edu/dialogues.
The University will co-host with community partners a facilitated dialogue on Faith and Politics at the Scranton Cultural Center on Nov. 18 at 5:30 p.m.
If you are interested in spending next June in one of Europe's most dynamic cities, feel to attend the Scranton in Berlin 2020 Information Session, which will be Tuesday, Nov. 5 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. in Saint Thomas 312.
We will discuss the agenda for our two weeks in Berlin, hear from veterans of previous trips, and the deadlines for signing up. It is always a grand adventure and not to be missed! No history or German prerequisites are necessary!
-Dr. Sean Brennan
German Travel Course Information Session, Nov. 5
The Manresa Retreat is inspired by the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. The entire weekend is student-led and offers participants the opportunity to explore the Ignatian principles of Finding God in All Things, Gratitude, a Faith that Does Justice, Discernment and magis. The Manresa Retreat allows students time to get away for a weekend and reflect upon meaning and direction in their own life in a fun communal atmosphere. The cost of the retreat is $30 and includes a shared room with bathroom and all meals, snacks and supplies. Fee assistance is available upon request. Contact amy.hoegen@scranton.edu in Campus Ministries for more information or register on Royal Sync here.
Sign up for the Manresa Retreat
The Manresa Retreat is inspired by the the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius.
Three Accounting Department faculty members at The University of Scranton, Amanda Marcy '10, G'11, Ashley Stampone '10, G'11, and David Salerno, Ph.D. '97, G'06, and Economics and Finance Department faculty member, John Ruddy, D.P.S. '91, recently had their research featured by a professional organization and cited in a Texas Supreme Court decisions. All are University of Scranton graduates.
Marcy and Stampone's work, titled "Emerging Technologies Will Impact More Than Office Duties" and set to be published in the Pennsylvania CPA Journal this fall, was featured in an article by the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants concerning how technological advancements will bring changes to CPA licensing and the CPA Exam. Marcy, assistant professor of accounting, received her bachelor's and master's degrees from The University of Scranton, where she is currently pursuing her D.B.A. She joined the accounting faculty at the University in 2015 and is a certified public accountant. Stampone, faculty specialist in accounting, received her bachelor's and master's degrees from The University of Scranton. She is also pursuing her D.B.A. at the University. A certified public accountant, she has taught at Scranton since 2016.
Dr. Salerno and Dr. Ruddy's work, titled "Defining and Quantifying Pension Liabilities of Government Entities in the United States" and published in the Journal of Corporate Accounting and Finance, was cited by the Supreme Court of Texas in rendering a government employee pension decision involving the Dallas Police and Fire Pension System. Dr. Salerno, associate professor of accounting received his bachelor's and master's degrees from The University of Scranton and his doctoral degree from Kent State University. A certified public accountant, he joined the University faculty full-time in 2007. Dr. Ruddy, assistant professor of economics and finance, received his bachelor's degree from The University of Scranton, his master's degree from George Washington University and his doctoral degree from Pace University. A certified public accountant and a chartered financial analyst, he joined the faculty at Scranton full-time in 2013.
KSOM Alumni Faculty Research Cited
Four KSOM faculty members recently had their research featured by a professional CPA organization and cited by a state Supreme Court.
The Office of Research and Sponsored Programs (ORSP) has a monthly raffle during the academic year (once during the summer) for members of the University who submit external grant proposals. This month the winner is Nathaniel Frissell, Ph.D., faculty member, Physics - Electrical Engineering Department. ORSP will randomly select a name from all faculty and staff members who have applied for an external grant during that time period. The winner receives a $25.00 gift Card.
ORSP October Raffle Winner: Dr. Nathaniel Frissell
The Office of Research and Sponsored Programs (ORSP) has a monthly raffle during the academic year (once during the summer) for members of the University who submit external grant proposals.
The Office of Human Resources: For Your Benefit Series
Session 3: Nov. 12, 2019, 2:30 p.m., TDC 405
Money at Work: Tomorrow in Focus: Saving for your Ideal Retirement
Believe it or not, your retirement starts now!
No matter how old or young you are, or where you are in your career, your retirement begins when you start saving for it. Join us for an interactive exploration of retirement saving and learn how to help create an effective plan to help maximize your retirement potential. TIAA?s workshop leader will help you understand the real benefit of time in regards to saving, learn the essential features of retirement investments and gain the knowledge you need to create or modify your own retirement plan.
Please RSVP to Eileen at eileen.notarianni@scranton.edu by Nov. 11.
For Your Benefit Series: Money at Work
The Office of Human Resources: For Your Benefit Series Session 3: Nov. 12, 2019, 2:30 p.m.
Join the THR1VE Program in celebrating the successes of our first-generation students, faculty, staff, and alumni during The University of Scranton's inaugural National First-Generation College Celebration on Friday, November 8, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on the second floor of the DeNaples Center!
This year, The University of Scranton joins hundreds of colleges and universities across the country in commemorating the 54th anniversary of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which increased access to higher education for millions of Americans.
Our inaugural celebration will take the form of a Fall Festival, complete with your favorite fall foods. We will also have a photo booth and some first-gen giveaways, so you can proudly showcase your #FirstGenRoyal pride!
Additionally, the first 100 students to participate in our celebration will receive a limited-edition T-Shirt!
Students will also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities and sign up for Scranton Connections, a unique platform maintained by the Center for Career Development that allows students to connect with first-generation alumni mentors in various professions.
We also encourage faculty and staff who identify as first-gen grads or advocates to pick up a THR1VE pin at the event. We hope that you will wear this pin proudly throughout the day, while sharing your experiences as first-gen graduates or advocates with our students.
Don't miss your opportunity to participate in this historic celebration of all that our first-gen Royals have accomplished!
For more information on the November 8th celebration, please visit the Center for First-Generation Student Success here.
Join the THR1VE Program for Free T-Shirts, Fall Food and Fun
Join the THR1VE Program in celebrating the successes of our first-generation students, faculty, staff, and alumni during The University of Scranton's inaugural National First-Generation College Celebration!
The Fail Forward Panel will be held Wednesday, Nov. 6, at 7:00 p.m. The Fail Forward Panel is an initiative that's new to our campus and designed to help students normalize the struggles and challenges encountered in everyday life.
We're lucky to have four panelists from our community who are willing to be vulnerable, sharing their stories with the hope of helping students to develop a growth mindset and grow their resilience. Panelists include Christine Black, J.D., Bobby Davis, Ph.D., Michael Fennie, Ph.D. and Billie Tadros, Ph.D.
Students, faculty and staff are all welcome!
This initiative is made possible with support from Strategic Initiative Funding.
Fail Forward Panel, Nov. 6
The Fail Forward Panel is an initiative that's new to our campus and designed to help students normalize the struggles and challenges encountered in everyday life.
The Staff Senate and the Office of Human Resources are honored to invite faculty and staff to The University of Scranton Communication Symposium that will be taking place on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:50 p.m. The event will be in the McIlhenny Ballroom, The DeNaples Center. Two Communications Symposiums are held each year to provide an opportunity for improved communications between key University leaders and our campus community.
This semester, we welcome the opportunity to hear from the following guest presenter:
Elizabeth M. Garcia, JD | Title IX Coordinator and Executive Director, Office of Equity & Diversity
Liz practiced labor and employment, and local government law for over 18 years in New Jersey. As a shareholder/partner of a large firm, she represented small local and large national companies and local governments on a variety of matters in both State and Federal Courts and agencies. She served at President of the Burlington County Bar Association and Bar Foundation. She has also been recognized as "a Top 25 Women to Watch", one of 50 "New Leaders of the Bar", and "Best Attorney in Business for Employment and Labor Law" to name a few. She is a graduate of the James E. Beasley School of Law at Temple University and Wheaton College in Massachusetts. Liz loves to travel and loves puppies.
Space is limited; kindly RSVP by November 11 by clicking here. Questions may also be submitted with your registration.
The University of Scranton Communication Symposium
The Staff Senate and the Office of Human Resources are honored to invite faculty and staff to The University of Scranton Communication Symposium that will be taking place on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:50 p.m.
The Undergraduate Award for Humanistic Inquiry (UAHI) is a grant of up to $1,500 for student research or creative work in the humanities. The UAHI is available to any undergraduate student, regardless of major, who seeks to pursue a humanities-based scholarly project with a faculty mentor during the 2019-2020 academic year. Funding will be provided to successful applicants beginning in December 2019. A final portion of the award will be distributed after the student's presentation of his/her work at the Celebration of Student Scholars on April 24, 2020, and the submission of a final report.
To apply for an UAHI, please submit a proposal to orsp@scranton.edu by Friday, Nov. 15, 2019. Application details can be found here.
If you have any questions related to the suitability of your project for the UAHI, please contact Dr. Joel Kemp (joel.kemp@scranton.edu) or Dr. Aiala Levy (aiala.levy@scranton.edu). Questions concerning proposal submission should be directed to Dr. Tabbi Miller-Scandle (tabbi.miller-scandle@scranton.edu).
Apply for Undergrad Award for Humanistic Inquiry
The Undergraduate Award for Humanistic Inquiry (UAHI) is a grant of up to $1,500 for student research or creative work in the humanities.
In Memory of Pope Benedict XVI
University of Scranton marks the passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.
Postcards from 2023 Scranton Intersession
'Moonlight' to Open Black History Month Film Series Feb. 1
Campus Coffeehouse with Travis Prince Feb. 23
CHEW'S Weekly Wellness Classes Begin for Spring Semester
Angel Bladt is Meg Cullen-Brown Magis Award Winner
2023 Tax Season Has Officially Begun; University Accounting Professor Joseph Hammond Discusses VITA Service Offered by Students
- WBRE / WYOU PA HOME PAGE
Local faithful saddened by death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI; Rev. Joseph G. Marina, S.J., president of the University of Scranton, comments
- Victoria Advocate and The Times-Tribune
Gap Insurance Guide; University Professor of Marketing Abhijit Roy, Ph.D comments
- Wallet Hub
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