1 15 194 https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/d5ee8eb85582829bedd7376e76448e33.pdf 1f1cccd9dce42e5008bc54ae8077500c PDF Text Text � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Student Artwork, 1940s-2025 Description An account of the resource This collection of artwork was created by Wilkes College and Wilkes University students from the 1940s through 2025. It was originally located in the Art Department before being transferred over to the Wilkes University Archives in December 2024 thanks to Sharon Cosgrove, Art Department professor. Because of a lack of documentation for many of the art pieces, some of the metadata fields are unknown including Creators, Dates, or Titles. The student who processed and digitized this collection, Emily Romanoskey, arranged the collection according to the medium type and added a date and creator and title when listed. If any former Art students see a piece that is theres and sees the piece identified incorrectly, please reach out to Wilkes University Archivist, Suzanna Calev (suzanna.calev@wilkes.edu ), with a link to the digitized piece and the proper information so she can update the collection and make sure the item is labeled correctly. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Art Department Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1940s-2025 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource PDF Type The nature or genre of the resource Artwork (paintings, prints, drawings, lino cuts, etc) Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Breiset, A. “Great White Hope” 1996 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Breiset, A. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource JPEG Type The nature or genre of the resource Artwork Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Art Department Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Wilkes University retains copyright of this document. https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/334f9c9682c08236270e92c1bdf0accb.pdf 17b903a96fd731d1c72b1eeeb97c84a5 PDF Text Text �>! � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Student Artwork, 1940s-2025 Description An account of the resource This collection of artwork was created by Wilkes College and Wilkes University students from the 1940s through 2025. It was originally located in the Art Department before being transferred over to the Wilkes University Archives in December 2024 thanks to Sharon Cosgrove, Art Department professor. Because of a lack of documentation for many of the art pieces, some of the metadata fields are unknown including Creators, Dates, or Titles. The student who processed and digitized this collection, Emily Romanoskey, arranged the collection according to the medium type and added a date and creator and title when listed. If any former Art students see a piece that is theres and sees the piece identified incorrectly, please reach out to Wilkes University Archivist, Suzanna Calev (suzanna.calev@wilkes.edu ), with a link to the digitized piece and the proper information so she can update the collection and make sure the item is labeled correctly. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Art Department Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1940s-2025 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource PDF Type The nature or genre of the resource Artwork (paintings, prints, drawings, lino cuts, etc) Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Potash, Brian. “Scoota!” 1996 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Potash, Brian Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource JPEG Type The nature or genre of the resource Artwork Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Art Department Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Wilkes University retains copyright of this document. https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/8a291a21fd7915223416c0b628b78a1b.pdf 21b6e7d9ffb617cfcde3190d35b71d60 PDF Text Text ����[!■ A ��qj q 0啊 (Rad a ①rain There Was This Day There was this day When I came to this place to stay It was weird, different, and nerve racking I thought and thought as I was pacing We got into the car and drove to the sight Thinking how it was going to be the very first night We approached the main desk on the first floor Giving them our names then they “showed us our door We headed for the room not knowing what we'd find Carrying our stuff up two flights of stairs and not looking behind We entered our room laying our stuff on a bed Looking around the room and seeing what lies ahead Unpacking the truck load of stuff we went Finally finishing up spraying our strawberry scent We headed down the hall, to the Pit In a great big circle where we had to sit We went down to dinner after we met Waiting for our schedules we were soon to get Back to the Pit a movie went on My anxiousness soon disappeared and was gone Off to their rooms everyone had to go Not because they were tired, but because the TC's said so The days went by and the week was done We finally realized this could be fun We only have five weeks to go Leaving here, a lot we will know. 城 S^ra 'Yuscavage 1 2 Follow the Yellow Brick Road 4 Follow the Yellow Brick Road �My Name Is the Tinman My name is the Tinman I have no heart I have come to Upward Bound to learn what's in myself U.B. is like the oil that lets me function in the movie. My friends and I are looking for the Wizard of Oz U.B. found us and helped us. The lion has no courage. The scarecrow has no brain in his head. We are looking for something inside our selves the teachers at U.B. showed us the ability to learn what was within me. Thanks to U.B. I have fun learning. Hola, Mellamo Glenda. Soy una buena bnya. Por UB yo puedo ayudar a 虹5 35.s” con sus probjmas. 二 LT le lleyaj. por i:: r esa calle de ladrillos amarilles de las personas UB vida. Me gusta UB porque puedo us ar mi hibilidad para ayudar a otras personas y say simpatica. Tambien puedo encantrar a amigos nueros. Las personas aqui son simpaticas Las personas Dequenas le ayudaron a dorotea. Le Da Cor£\je, Conye, sabiduria, cuidado y un lugar donde se siente amor. Yo recomendaria O UB a .. . ... 1 i -J _ _ _ • _____________ —c —c—AcAc C TTD c todo. Hello my name is Glenda. I^am a good witch. Through UB I was able^to^ help people with their problems. UB leads you down that yellow brick road of life. helping and I like UB because it allows me to use my abilities -----of 二二三二二 ，people --j v-— - being nice. It also allows me to meet new people. people there are nice like the little people that help Dorothy. It gives you courage, wisdom, caring, and a place where you feel loved. I would recommend UB to anyone. Chavon Croman Untitled The student works hard each day Trying to do everything in the best way All his teacher does is teach He wishes he was at the beach But he is stuck doing work all day Gy Dorotea es la chica bonita. Ellale gusta hablar conhente. Dorotea va a muchos lugares. Ella experimenta muchas cosas. Ella la gustan cambios en au vida. ■ Dorotea aprende mucho de ella misma. Ella siguio el camino de la drillos amarillos a Oz y yo segui el mismo comino a Upward Bound. Upward Bound tr^io ~ muchas buenas cosas a mi vida tai como,, aprendiendo _> cosas nuevas. pcxc+ce i n An c Buena — T> 一 .：— *V— j Dorotea aprendio decllc ellammisma deT La Bnya. Yo— —aprendi mucho de los profesores a Upward Bound y yo tratare el mejor eh todos las cosas como hizo Dorotea. 灾prey Bridge Dorothy is a beautiful girl. She likes to speak with people. Dorothy is going to many places. She experienced many things. She likes changes in her life. Dorothy learned much about herself. She followed the yellow brick road to Oz and I followed that same road' to Upward Bound. Upward Bound brings many good things as j to my, life, suchlearning new things. Dorothy learned about herself 『 一 j from the good 一必 witch. T I 'learned much from iJie teachers at Upward Bound and I will try my hardest in everything, just like Dorothy did. Bridge is totally different than Upward Bound If you get behind, you may never be found So stay ahead and keep going I know that classes may be boring Sometimes you may be up all night But with Chuck's help you'll be all right It is okay to be nervous on exam day But then you'll find out that you got an "A" So if you study hard you'll do fine and have a great summer just like mine gfatlcY Follow the Yellow Brick Road 6 Follow the Yellow Brick Road Follow the Yellow Brick Road 7 Follow the Yellow Brick Road �Soy un Icon y soy muy fuerte pero no tengo careOe. You siempre deseaba que you tendreia la co珥je pero pense que no pasaria. Luego he oido de Upward Bound y Upard Bound me encontro justo como Dartea encontro justa como Dartea encontro OZ. Upward Bound era buena para mi proque tengo cor曲e ahora. d but 一 “一 wished that I a lion and I am very strong I have no courage. I always had courage but I thought that it wouldn't happen. Then I heard of Upward Bound and Upward Bound found me, just like Dorothy, found OZ. Upward Bound was great for me because now I have courage. I am r t r l 业Qcniulc >J1 U1J a XIV CO XOVAA. JAAVZ。ux ~ J- ■ ■ ------------------------------ J , Ser una buena bruj a no es facil. Elios trabajan mucho“ 一a Upward Bound y Upward' ~ Bound dijo que ser la bruja no seria facil. Upward Bound ayuda con eso. T\ me ayudo mejorarme. You nunca espere que seria como eso. mmujvua Being the good witch is not easy. They work a lot at Upward Bound and it helped me to be the good witch wouldn't be easy. It helped me in growing. I never expected it to be. AP0lc①心 Q en el Wizard of Oz, you busco un Hola. Yo soy el espant^jo. Como el espant^jo sobre ia caue correcta. Justo lie----------------cerebro. Yo espero que Upward Bound me lleva como Dorotea ayudo el espant可 o del garrote, Yo Bound me 甫 io deseo aeaev que Upward up七帘"罗中 tenga exito. A traves de las experiencias voy a tener en Upward Bound me , ° ____ !__________ A-crzIc omierAa miovna v vivin encontrare mi mi miaixia. misma. Divirtiendo — me *-** encontrando amigos nuevos,viviendo^en enconurure w^-*—-；----------° . ■, ― un lyos de mi casa. Yo llego sa ser mas ---independiente lui vaoa> x ---- r ----------------- * pasan las semands. Como avudo yo la ayude cuando you aceite al hombre de lata lats y eniina en*una Dorotea me ayudo, manera you ayude a los otros. Mi camino de ladnllss amarillos es Upward Bound. Hello. I am the scarecrow. Like the scarecrow in the "Wizard of Oz", I am looking for a brain. I hope that Upward Bound wHl will lead me to Uie^right the right road. road. 』 just as Dorothy helps the scarecrow off the stick, I want Upward Bound to lead me to success. ’Through the experiences that I will have at Upward Bound I will haAng a good time making^new away from find myself. I am having making new friends and：____ being . ° . , ， ，_ _ x________ i•______ t>_____ 4.1r home. I am becoming more independent as the weeks pass. oSince Dorothy helped meTl 繇 ped her oil the tin man and in other ways I will help other me, I helped friends. Upward Bound is my yellow brick road. Christine ©Inger Follow the Yellow Brick Road JO Follow the Yellow Brick Road ，二 ' 4 / q (Haw <a (Reart because qfs Cgrgafcing 巧/ tX-z 7 ��������������力彦心 & 所 r、 勺 > e i s ^-_ - 萨 * r A w l 攵一 一 s t) % 攵寸 叽 ◎ N 0 ， &/ ,Sa s 一 o .6 一 D Y , 1 P Follow the Yellow Brick Road Follow the Yellow Brick Road 40 Follow the Yellow Brick Road 41 Follow the Yellow Brick Road �srF ( ▲ 8 F d r s - 2 S 0 I 7 W - - 殄切泓7■裁吃严切曾— .,Wq教南泓虐绑国々 部跖n。力 3..£。馋瓯 oiAr » 〃,/»-£ 情由幻孑湖勿法新 n娜呢 也希咿 为么 E^3yrzrZ涉 Wcirr 如^ 务必.h"ace 多5 y)u _nv? {re-^w 42 Follow lhe Yellow Brick Road .一 . _ E r_________ 5?和/扣为兑彼刀 久氏旅长)o 丁繇ho.腿，吧由必hk 泓”> C7o Ji\fis to t诚 d^hig. c即割T：.. fo^TU 移糖。~T球C&S'pQ*. to ^Ttj &仅 % if is々况以成 ，y&虹zz 3 叱M 〒娣斯洌侦4.： Gl法3巳 饵/ 会oJ^Jife at A> Oe&u却七做为 m /iviffdb viffdb次泌？七藉' 七普〉 庄> Beec^e- 9%^/呼 a Follow the Yellow Brick Road Follow lhe Yellow Brick Road . ' 八 esF h J / r 搭 s 5 5 e • man 食 〜。 〜 o n g lm 2 - - a a w a b F sf ^ 目寥各由声 mKgrlwm 沙 nDr aw咨 aD~ a > fh% 骂 亏 fr o w 一 沅 纠为 启 月 ge/Fhi^ s c苛 hm u吝 一 ai 一 「携 - e f Follow the Yellow Brick Road ��手户耳鼻冬岂』 \ q ' q r "he w昌 ^. 寸 WLUWi^ z t r V Jr p^ ◎ k ^: s ^ % > 7< ^ e P S <s' 3 & 1 < 、 ■ j 、 o % 考 7 7M T J。 CLmpzJS breRk chsv- i i f r J ^ Txmver 。 w/ch 壮 ib》nlzer m£ ^ o o f Follow the Yellow Brick Road Follow the Yellow Brick Road 46 Follow the Yellow Brick Road ��� Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Upward Bound Lit Journals, 1981-2016 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Provost's Office Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1981-2016 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource PDF Type The nature or genre of the resource Journal Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Upward Bound Lit Journals 1996 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Provost's Office Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource PDF Type The nature or genre of the resource Journal https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/cfd1cd2882df68a93dadee771fc2d4c7.pdf be91e4b75e39e0662136c6ca15339ecd PDF Text Text ��������������V/a'/'c [i. "for b'i ��������^ckS^ Brian __________ �-<ke ^Aiiger-^CHUCK yM _ix^ SloJty Sea**' *<? Charlie «? ��<*- 4 I M»t* 2 ” ’’W : h > «•_____ «• I ; ' A «xc<xr CO'X ������I Rf ■ © ��Success seews access largely o nia'f'fcc of on at'for offers have /c~C. "U?/I'cxtn f'Mjhcr �CrQ2_y u a CS L °^f \ P4 1 ^pr// Cr- �����Ofe ���������e a pose. ����TL U.1 CL man wkc> wa.^5 0.7? -s access kiw.se. kla.s'n'j' kct-n^ Atton ������> r K: fe rz ■ i? .. I I 1 I � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Upward Bound scrapbooks, 1970-2025 Subject The topic of the resource Scrapbooks Description An account of the resource A collection of photo scrapbooks from the Upward Bound program from 1967 to 2025. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Provost's Office Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1967-2025 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource PDF Language A language of the resource English Type The nature or genre of the resource Scrapbooks Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 1996 Upward Bound scrapbook Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Provost's Office Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource PDF Description An account of the resource pictures of Upward Bound students and staff, with notes written in Type The nature or genre of the resource Scrapbook Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Wilkes University retains copyright of this document. https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/4e30852241eff919abf168da6579e3f4.pdf e3f941e573f832f95c7287c1053590da PDF Text Text �From th e I W L K L S Universe Volume 3 <r Number 1 Visiting the Olz Stompin' Grounds CONTENTS , , „ fieid near mv childhood home in Llewellyn, pa. ifshv( There s a Mil n with wooden backstops and wellr°bau fields, actually a g, Looking down from the rocky bank th; ‘Sodden diamonds at oppos ■b like much when j Profiles , lat forms its Editor Vaughn A. Shinkus '91 fWnt'ncevery few years, I can't help but get a little S° back there, asI find myself 101 g * j had there whUe growing up. n°stalgic think. ilAg tb°U! hXuIe 1 was a baseball star-far from it. I spent most of my fiVe_ rX leaeue career goofing around with fellow bench-warming tea) dul1 postin rXX Associate Editor Stephanie Gever Mv neighborhood friends and I encircled that quarter-mile radius hundreds of times on our Schwinn Sting Ray bikes-mine was red, with that silly banana seat I remember, too, the Sunday football games—tackle, of course-wherein the main objective was to play and play until a) someone got really hurt, orb) it got too dark to see tire bah. Sports Editor Tom McGuire '85 Executive Director of Alumni Sandra Beynon Nicholas M'85 Design Projects by Design Corporation Administration Christopher N. Breiseth, Ph.D. President J. Michael Lennon, Ph.D. Vice President for Academic Affairs immates u T the field when games were not in session that I remember most. >e fun we The field has been spruced up a bit since my childhood days. A new shed was erected to replace the small shack that served as a concession stand. There's fresh paint on the backstop, and someone has replaced the rotted boards that had formed the roof of each dugout. But at its heart, the old field is pretty much the same. Athletics aside, "the diamond" was the setting for some of the happiest times of my youth. Going back there inevitably evokes this flood of memories. Sometimes same feelings feelings when when II walk walk across the Wilkes campus, oun leumes iI get get those triose same ven thoughl'm here every day, I still get a nostalgia attack while visiting cerp aces. The creaky basement stairs in Capin Hall take me back to the news thT and^roadcast journalism courses I took there. The distinctive smell of ... T T brar>' somewhat less pleasant memories: the stress associated carrpl a ja research Paper or studying for an exam at a basement study football 6 e'd neXt t0 Pfokerfo8 Hall reminds me of muddy, evening Paul A. O'Hop Vice President for Business Affairs and Auxiliary Enterprises freshmana "a 3Cr0SS carnPus and, in my mind's eye, I'm an 18-year old edlv anticiJT T Jamms was the late 80's, mind you), excitsometimes seemedl °Ur '°ng ™°Ugh rig°rS °f aCademe Paul J. Strunk Vice President for Alumni, Development and University Relations and the years n n urrnountable back then, those were truly carefree days Wilkes alumni T mUC^ foster than I would have liked. More than one Wilkes Universe is published by Wilkes University and distributed free to its alumni and friends. Comments, suggestions and story ideas are welcomed. but they've been re lmProved w’th age. The historic buildings are still here, terminals are everywh t0 meet dle needs today's students. Computer Internet connection wT eaCh d°rm room is linked to the world V'a prettier than you mioht 3'S° added a greenway that makes the campus eyen home run every time at ,ernern^er- Come back and see. You may not have hit a fondly. ah h>vit you 11 reflect upon the playing field just as Unh ensity Relations Wilke*. University P.O. Box 111 Wilkes-Barre, PA 18766 1-800-WJI.KESU, ext. 4770 Fax: (717) 831-7820 E-mail: alumnipub@wilkesl.wilkes.edu Wilkes and Harris Semiconductor: A Shared Vision, A Common Interest Four decades later, a partnership that began with a promise by Dr. Eugene S. Farley continues to benefit Wilkes graduates and a Mountaintop-based semiconductor producer. Bu;ifs th Director of University Relations Craig (Mark) Davis Editorial Assistants Keith Pacyna '98 Jean Pall Amy Sosik '9S Page 8 Page 13 Restoring Hope to the Children of Bosnia Freelance photographer Gary Fabiano '89 documents the work of an experimental program established to rehabilitate children of the former Yugoslavia. Page 18 Penning the Great American Novel Alumni authors comment on the joy of writing and the frustrations ofgetting published, "just write and write and write," says one. "Be persistent." Page 20 A Front Row View of the Technological Revolution As an engineer with the Bell System for more than four decades, the late Emrys “Easy" Lewis watched as technology and government intervention changed the face of the telecommunications industry. | Departments Cover Page 2 Page 6 Page 23 Page 24 Page 28 From the Editor — Revisiting the ol’ stompin’ ground On Campus — Wilkes programs gain national accreditation Presidential Perspective — Wilkes exchange program with Chinese university promotes understanding between two of world’s most powerful nations. Alumni News — Regional Alumni Chapters hold kickoff events in Philadelphia, New York City and Binghampton areas. Colonels of Excellence — Football Coach Sheptock is among NFL players honored for achievements during their college career. Afterthoughts — Dr. Liuzzo flies the friendly skies wipbXt; "e,hes™''u”s- Sinc&rcrely, ON THE COVER (JUL Tears are an important part of the recovery process for children of Bosnia who have been scarred by the tragedies of civil war. "They have to be able to express their emotions." says Wilkes associate professor of Psychology Dr. Holiday Adair. "They need to learn to think differently about the world." v^n A. Shinkus'91 �WILK E S U N I V E R S E On - .-.'MB Wilkes Prof Receives Fulbright to Mexico Dr. Michael A. Steele, associate pro­ fessor of Biology at Wilkes, has been awarded a Fulbright Fellowship to lec­ ture and conduct research in Mexico during the 1997-98 academic year. The Washington, D.C.-based International Exchange of Scholars selected Steele for the fellowship based on his research record, teaching history' and a detailed research proposal. The nine-month award provides a salary; relocation allowance and living expens­ es for Steele, who is accompanied by his wife, Margaret, and children, Michael, Tyler and Emily. Wilkes University' has provided a sabbatical ation of oak forests. In Mexico Steel collaborating with faculty andstudents from the National Herbarium in Pueb] and the Centro de Ecologia at UNAM ' in Mexico City. leave for the year. "The award gives me an opportunity to extend my research into an environ­ ment where understanding the mecha­ nisms of forest regeneration is critical for countering deforestation," said Steele. Established in 1946, the Fulbright Scholar Program offers grants to faculty, professionals and independent scholars' for teaching and research abroad. The program aims to promote global under­ standing while fostering academic and professional development and allowing academicians from the United States an avenue for collaboration with col­ leagues worldwide. Steele's cur­ rent research, conducted with Wilkes students and colleagues from Rutgers State University, the University' of Pennsylvania Dr. Michael Steele and tire University' of California, focuses on the behavior of squirrels and other food­ hoarding animals, the specific decisions they’ make when storing acoms and the effects of their behavior on the regener- Annual Fund Contributions Up Record contributions from Wilkes alumni, friends and region­ al businesses drove the 1996-97 Annual Fund total to more than 5951,000, an increase in giving by more than 540,000 over the previous year. Final figures for the campaign show more than 2900 Wilkes alumni made annual fund gifts. More than 4,100 total donors contributed to Wilkes during 1996-97. "Thanks to the increased support of our alumni, local busi­ nesses and friends in the community, this Annual Fund was an overwhelming success," said Christopher N. Breiseth, Wilkes president. "Their participation shows their confidence in the stu­ dents, programs and future of Wilkes University." Annual Fund money's supplement tuition revenue to provide funding for University’ operations. Contributions help provide scholarships, purchase library books and underwrite general operating expenses. "This increased confidence helps us in so many ways," said Claire Fox, director of development and major planned gifts. "These supporters have demon­ strated that they believe in the value of a Wilkes educa­ tion and are prepared to help ensure a quality educa­ tion for today's students." Support to the campaign was enhanced by several Christopher N. Breiseth, Thea Chesluck Escarge '70, Penny Ruckno ‘6s, Sandra Pitrone ‘77, Cann Cheyfitz and Claire Par. by $40,000 in 1996=97 companies that offer matching gift programs, which can double or triple the size of a gift and thus provide additional financial support. Nearly 554,000 of the campaign was raised from match­ ing gifts. In July, the University hosted a celebration to recognize the more than 70 volunteers who made community appeals and staffed phonathon drives. Sandra Piccone '77 was chair of the drive. Wilkes is very fortunate to have such outstanding volun­ teers, said Fox. "A small army of supporters gave their time to ensure the campaign's success." Wilkes students and volunteers are making phone calls for the 1997-98 campaign, which is again being chaired by Piccone, with assistance from vice chair David Davis '75. ■ Wilkes Programs Recognized Business Programs Accredited by ACBSP Wilkes University's Business Administration, Accounting, and Master of Business Administration (MBA) pro­ grams recently were accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Wilkes University is the only school in Northeastern Pennsylvania and one of only six four-year schools in the common­ wealth to hold this accreditation. ACBSP is one of two associations certified by the United States Department of Education to accredit business programs. To earn the accreditation, the University had to meet 25 rigorous stan­ dards. According to the association's materials, "accreditation provides a means of assuring students, parents, and the business community that business degrees have met rigorous (standards) and a high level of educational quality." "The accreditation is another external acknowledgement of the strong student/faculty interaction in our busi­ ness curriculum," says Dr. J. Michael Lennon, vice president for Academic Affairs. "We applaud the efforts of our students and faculty' whose efforts led to this achievement." Dr. Anthony L. Liuzzo, faculty coordi­ nator for accreditation, has been working with the faculty and administration for more than a year to earn the prestigious accreditation. "The accreditation process included submission and audit of an extensive self-study and an on-site visit by representatives of ACBSP," Liuzzo said. A visitation team came to Wilkes for three days in February to evaluate cur­ riculum, faculty, research and service to the business and educational community. Tire team also reviewed student achieve­ ments and assessed their satisfaction with the business program, university facilities and institutional support for program activities. The team filed a report that cites a dis­ tinctive strength of the business programs nt Wilkes. "Tire University has a tradition of meeting the changing needs and chal­ lenges affecting the community and soci­ ety as a whole," it reads. "The by Cam us National Entities plinary and technologically advanced courses that provide much interaction among its faculty." Dr. Anne Heineman Batory, interim dean of the School of Business, Society and Public Policy, says the accreditation adds value to the Wilkes experience. "The ACBSP accreditation formally acknowl­ edges the quality of the learning environ­ ment in the Wilkes business programs and validates the high competency level of our graduates," she said. Recent graduates and students reacted positively to the accreditation."! am elat­ ed for the School of Business, Society' and Public Policy to receive such an honor. It adds quality to my degree," said Greta Altavilla M'97, who received an MBA degree in May. Senior Joseph Russo will receive his business degree later this year. "I am con­ fident knowing that my education and my goals will be looked upon with more emphasis versus graduating with a stan­ dard bachelor's degree in business," he said. only be awarded after Wilkes's first phar­ macy class graduates in the year 2000. The four-year School of Pharmacy' pro­ gram at Wilkes includes three years of tra­ ditional courses and one year of clinical clerkship at area pharmacies and medical facilities. A competitive program, 80 pre­ pharmacy students are accepted each year into the pre-pharmacy' program, with 65 admitted into the professional pharmacy' program. The School occupies the first and third floors of the newly’ remodeled Stark Learning Center. The first floor houses a pharmacy' information center and com­ puter lab, model pharmacy; and offices. The third floor includes the anatomy and physiology lab, pharmaceutics lab, three research labs, conference rooms, offices, and accessory rooms. Pharmacy School Advances Toward Accreditation Wilkes's Mechanical Engineering and Environmental Engineering programs recently were accredited by' the Engineering Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology’ (ABET). "This honor affirms the quality' of the programs in our School of Science and Engineering," said Wilkes President Christopher N. Breiseth. Wilkes has a proud tradition of educating engineers and this accreditation allows that tradition to continue." Tire University's Electrical Engineering and Materials Engineering programs are also accredited by ABET. The School of Science and Engineering offers a unique integrated curriculum featureing a comprehensive array of courses, personalized faculty attention, a low stu­ dent to faculty' ratio, access to state-of-theart laboratories, interaction with industry and a multidisciplinary team approach to problem solving. "We are committed to providing a con­ ducive learning environment and friendly­ atmosphere for each member of our diverse student population," said Dr. Umid R. Nejib, dean of the School of Science and Engineering. "Our high placement rate is the result of this educa- Wilkes's doctor of pharmacy' program has been granted candidate status, Hie next step toward accreditation by’ the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education (ACPE). The upgrade in status was granted based on the results of an April site visit by an ACPE evaluation team of pharmacy' educators and practitioners. During tire visit, the team surveyed the facilities, reviewed program documentation and interviewed administration, faculty’ and students. In their evaluation report, the team lauds the Wilkes program for its curriculum, facilities and students. "The new curriculum being developed is contemporary and innovative in both its structure and the planned method for delivery," the report reads. According to ACPE materials, candi­ date status is granted to programs that have not yet graduated a class, but have students enrolled in the professional tract. The designation denotes a program expected to develop as planned over a Engineering Programs Earn National Accreditation j I I I I I I | I I �WILKES zz universe On Award Winning Author Gives Reading On £am at Wilkes Three Honored a: Spring, Summer Commencement Exercises By Rich Drees Listen to a I recitation of John I Updike’s many achievements as ■ an author, and I you could con\ ceivably imagine jR him as a "-^rious I- * ----- 1 writer"—squir­ relled away in a small New England coun­ tryside house, wearing a heavy sweater and hunched over a small manual typewriter. Listen to him read his own works, as he did in October to a packed house at Wilkes’s Dorothy Dickson Darte Center for the Performing Arts, and that image would readily be dispelled. Instead of a studied academic, Updike presented himself as a dryly witty story­ teller, mining material from his own recol­ lections of childhood much in the same vein as Hemingway or Twain. Perhaps best known as a novelist for works such as his Rabbit series-for which his 1982 installment Rabbit is Rich won tire Pulitzer Prize—The Centaur or The Witches of Eastwick, Updike began the evening with a selection of poems inspired by his early years growing up in Shillington, Pa., near Reading. After finishing his first poem, "ExBasketBall Player," Updike looked up to the auditorium with a smile. "My 40 years of writing certainly bear in on me as 1 read a poem like this and realize how full it is of obsolete references." But Updike need not apologize. While the imagery of most of the work he read was indeed firmly rooted in mid-century Americana, it's that time period that today evokes a nostalgic fondness. Updike said literature should "concern itself with the inner lives of hidden people." Another poem, "Plow Cemetery," again utilizes the imager}' of rural Pennsylvania— Simon Criticizes Public Officials of Pandering Former Senator Paul Simon was the featured speaker at the six­ teenth annual Max Rosenn Lecture Series in Law and Humanities held in April in the Dorothy Dickson Darte Center for the Performing Arts. Simon retired his Illinois senate seat last January' and is now professor and director of the Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University'. Speaking to an audience that filled the Edward Darling Jr. Theatre, Simon spoke about public mistrust of those who hold public office. "The public perception is that public office is for sale," said Simon. "It is not quite that bad. But what is true, is that access to public office is for sale. Somehow we have to change that." Simon added that politicians have fostered a culture of "pander­ ing" to voters by taking positions that are impossible to defend, such as promising to increase government services while cutting taxes. "The excuse is 'we’re giving the public what it wants,'" Simon said. "My friends, if we want to improve the nation, we have to be willing to sacrifice." Simon cites as an example the plight of education in the United States. Elementary and secondary' education is substandard com­ pared to other nations, he said. "We simply have to do better if we are going to compete with the rest of the world—if we are to understand the rest of the world for our own security." Simon is distressed that most states spend more money on pris­ ons than on schools, and points out that 82 percent of those in prison have achieve less than a high school education. "You specifically a cemetery where family ances­ tors are buried—to examine how he first dealt with the issue of his own morality Updike looked to his own past, to try to gain answers to his future. This theme was repeated in more depth as he read his short story, "Lunch Hour." In it, a man goes to his 45th high school reunion and becomes reacquainted with an old girlfriend he had not seen in the years since. Updike commented that when he was starting out as a writer someone asked him why he seemed to write exclusively about Pennsylvania. "Pennsylvania is reality to me," was his reply. Most of those in attendance at the read­ ing could probably find some reality of their own in his selection of works— whether preparing to go to a class reunion, confronting morality or just longing for the day when gas pumps had a glass domes and five bucks would buy lunch for a week. shouldn't have to be an Einstein to figure out that maybe if we put a little more money into education, we wouldn't have to build more prisons." Prior to leaving the Senate, Simon was Illinois' senior rank­ ing senator. He wrote education and job training laws such as the National Literacy Act, the School-To-Work Opportunities Act, the Job Training Partnership Act amendments, several pro­ visions of the Goals 2000 Act and the 1994 reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. He was the lead­ ing Senate champion of the new direct college loan program, and the chief Democratic sponsor of the balanced budget amendment. He was elected to the Illinois House in 1954 and to the Illinois Senate in 1962. In 1968 he was elected lieutenant gover­ nor and was the first in Illinois history to be elected to the post under a governor from another Former party. Senator Paid The Max Rosenn Lecture Series in Law and ■j Humanities was established in 1980 in recognition of Rosenn's 10th anniversary Judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit and >n appreciation for his many contributions to the field of Law, to the United States judi- j Simon speaks at the Spring Rosenn i Wilkes honored three individuals who have dedicated their lives to helping oth­ ers. and awarded more than 450 under­ graduate and graduate degrees at com­ mencement exercises held in May and August. At the 50th annual Spring Commencement ceremony in May, Lorraine E. Hale, Ph.D., was awarded an honorary doctor of humane letters degree for her exemplary work in caring for the nation's infants. With her mother, the late Clara “Mother” Hale, she found­ ed Hale House, a New York City child care agency that has attracted national attention for nurturing and caring for babies born to women addicted to drugs or infected witn HIV. Hale, who was keynote speaker, encouraged the 400 graduates to bal­ ance their lives by nurturing the four unique human needs: living, loving, learning and leaving a legacy. “Only when we see the importance of these needs do we find a way to fulfill them," us Convocation ceremonies in August, she said. “Leaving a legacy is very Breiseth presented a doctor of humane important. It says to the world 50 years letters degree to Attorney George L. from now ‘I was here and I made my life Fenner, Jr., a dedicated friend and worthwhile.'" benefactor of the University. Also at the May exercises, prominent With his late wife, Hilda, an alumna of educator and physician Doris Gorka Bucknell University Junior College, Bartuska, M.D. ‘49 was awarded an Fenner has committed a honorary doctor of science major gift to the University degree. Former director of to help bring culture and endocrinology, diabetes and enlightenment to the metabolism clinical services youth of the Wyoming at the Medical College of Valley. Pennsylvania, Bartuska has “It was our own experi­ received numerous teaching ence with college that awards throughout her convinced us that we career. Now retired from clin­ should do as much as ical practice, she continues possible to make educa­ her medical research and tion accessible to the chil­ writing as a professor emeri­ dren of the Wyoming tus of Allegheny University Valley," Fenner said of Health Sciences. upon receiving the In presenting the honor, Attorney George L. Fenner, Jr. degree. Wilkes President Dr. Always a concerned Christopher N. Breiseth environmentalist, Fenner is giving the lauded her achievements as a member University a major piece of land that will of numerous and professional and com­ be sold to the Wildlands Conservancy to munity affiliations. keep the land forever wild. The sale will “In your many teaching, research and provide a benefit both to Wilkes and to administrative positions... and in your Pennsylvania. local, state and national leadership roles in the medical profession, you have been a pioneer for women,” said Breiseth. Bartuska has received numerous awards, including the Lindback Distinguished Teaching Award, the President's Recognition Award, the Distinguished Daughter of Pennsylvania award and the Gender Equity Award from the American Medical Association. In addition, she was honored with three awards from the Medical College of Pennsylvania Alumni Association and has served as president of the Philadelphia County Medical Society and the American Medical Women's Association. At Summer Commencement/ ciary system and to the quail ty of life in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Vice President for Academic Affairs J. Michael I ennon robes Doris Gorka Harlnska, M.D. '49, who was awarded an honorary doctor of science degree al commencement in May. Lorraine E. Hale delivi*rs the keynote address to the 400 graduates at A Ln/ commencement exercises. Approximately 36 undergraduate and 30 graduate degrees were awarded at the August ceremony. Breiseth delivered the commencement address officially opening the 1997-98 academic year for faculty, staff and students. �WILKES UNIVERSE Pe /p g y © /7> g @ fe 9 & I Cross Cultural Education Key to Improving Chinese ty from each university to get to know each other, share knowl­ edge and broaden their horizons. Students lucky enough to travel half way around the world to study in the other country will discover two nations marked by great contrasts. China represents the oldest, continuous civilization in the world, where there is still great emphasis on the collective good of the whole country. America, by contrast, is perhaps the youngest civilization in the world and has from the beginning placed great emphasis on the rights of the individual. We each have some profound truths to learn from each other, because the 21st century global village will need both the concern for the whole community that is second nature in China and the protected right to individual expression so valued in the United States to harness the true creative potential of human beings in dealing with world challenges. While there is enormous diversity in China, there also is a great common cultural bond among Chinese. America, by contrast, has had to develop its unity out of the vast diversity of peoples coming from every part of the world. Wilkes University's motto—unity amidst diversity—embodies that movement. While we as a nation have not always been successful in this blending of the world's peoples, we have gone farther than any other in discovering that our future health rests upon our ability to educate and protect the Relations Over the 1996-97 academic year, eight students from Heilongjiang University in Hat bin, China studied at Wilkes. In June, Wilkes President Christopher N. Breiseth, along with vice president for Academic Affairs Dr. J. Michael Lennon and his wife, Donna, visited Heilongjiang. Following are Breiseth's observations from the trip on the importance of such cultural exchange. I || lhe relationship between Heilongjiang University and Wilkes University is symbolic || of the larger relationship between China and the United States. The two universities -IL have the opportunity to promote a mutual understanding upon which the two greatest economies of the world must build the future. Cooperation between these two great nations is imperative, not just for the sake of Chinese and American interests, but for the entire world, which will be increasingly dependent on their healthy relations as we enter into the 21st century. By studying each others' history, culture, politics, and economics, students from Heilongjiang and Wilkes can discover the sources of our deepest beliefs, our values, our hopes and fears, even our prejudices. From such study, they can bring to their professions and communities a kind of wisdom that ultimately impacts the national interests of each country, not only within each society' but in our policies toward each other. This really is a very special moment in world history. With the ideological cold war over, there is a genuine opportunity for the world to avoid the great wars that have devas­ tated the 20th century. There still will be great problems, as such struggles are replaced by religious fundamentalists in conflict, ethnic hatred among neighboring peoples and other issues tied up with peoples' personal and social identities. If we can avoid great wars between nations, we are nonetheless going to have to deal with terrorism by angry, disaf­ fected groups who inflict their frustrations on others, as we have experienced in both the United States and China. The threat of terrorism must engage the thoughtful, responsible leaders of our govern­ ments to work together to control access to weapons and technologies that permit devel­ opment of nuclear or chemical weapons. Just as global environmental challenges must pull together our governments and institutions to take collective action, so must we work together to address legitimate grievances of large groups of people. Without such atten­ tion, terrorism is likely to spread as a method for disaffected groups to gain the world's attention. In the lifetime of present college students, the world will genuinely become a global vil­ lage, increasingly more connected by FAX machines and the Internet This extraordinary communication potential imposes burdens on our governments, but also offers unparal­ leled opportunity for thoughtful people to search together for intelligent answers to our common problems. Consider what is happening in medical research, where teams of scien­ tists around the world communicate daily to track results of experiments focused on eradi­ cating specific diseases. Tnis networking process has become second nature to millions of individuals with access to computer technology. President Clinton has pledged to have computers in every classroom in America so that al! school children will know how to find information on the Internet and be able to communicate with other children around the world. We as their parents and teachers must foster an attitude of openness and curiosity to learn about^ pie different from ourselves. This is a fundamental responsibility of education particuhdv of our colleges and universities. The exchange between Heilongjiang and Wilkes is air . / contributing to this enlightened effort at mutual discovery by allowing students and \ I "In the lifetime of present college students, the world will genuinely become a global village. This extra­ ordinary communi­ cation potential offers unparalleled opportunity for thoughtful people to search together for intelligent answers to our common problems. j rights of every individual American regardless of race, sex, religion or country of origin. Our efforts to draw together peoples of such dramatically different backgrounds and secure their rights and opportunities through education, employment, political citizenship and our legal system rep­ resents America's most important contribution to the rest of the world. The tradition of a liberal arts education is central to the strength of American colleges and universities. Its emphasis on developing students into independent and creative thinkers has helped create the dynamism of our economy as well as of our intellectual and political life. Students from China who come to our colleges and universities will be initi­ ated into this secret of American success. It will make them better able to help the China of the 21st century understand what, how and why Americans think and behave the way we do. Such understanding is crucial for the creative and harmo­ nious relations between these two great peoples. Americans’ understanding of China and its unique perspective on itself and on the world is just as important. The educational exchange between Heilongjiang and Wilkes universities can contribute significantly to this mutual understanding. Zhang Jin Le, director, Foreign Affairs Department; Donna Lennon; J. Michael Lennon, vice president of Academic Affairs, Wilkes University; Liu Donghui, president, Heilongjiang University; Christopher N. Breiseth, president, Wilkes University; Xu Shi Dong, deputy president, Heilongjiang University; Zhang Xiaoguan, deputy director, Foreign Affairs Department; Li Hongquan, vice director, International Exchange. �iIe he year was 1959. Dwight D. Eisenhower was in the White House; Alaska and Hawaii became the 49th and 50th states and Wilkes IZh-"7 at .1 a A Q^aJted vision A College President Dr. Eugene S. Farley made a commitment to the Radio Corporation of America (RCA) that would continue to have an impact on the school, the company and the local economy for years to come. To help assure that a new RCA plant would be built in the region, Farley promised that Wilkes would institute new programs in electrical engi­ neering to provide a steady supply of skilled work­ ers for the plant. As a result, Wilkes developed a four-year course in electrical engineering and two graduate programs. For its part, RCA offered technical assistance and equipment to get the new programs underway. Today, the course offerings have changed, Wilkes has become a University, and RCA is now Harris Semiconductor, a 240-million dollar produc­ er of microchips, but that initial agreement to work hand in hand goes unchanged. Wilkes now offers a wide range of courses in electrical and computer engineering. The fouryear program leading to a Bachelor of Science degree offers students various areas of specializa­ tion, including bioengineering, computer engi­ neering, microelectronics, microwave and antenna systems, and telecommunication. These programs provide strong engineering and scientific experi­ ence with advanced techniques heavily integrated into the curriculum. Within these programs, explains Dr. Umid Nejib, dean of the School of Science and Engineering, students focus on high frequency communications, semiconductor fabrication, com­ puters and computer simulation. Interest by K Tracy Fabian "This is one of the few universities in the East that has students produce a working power semiconductor device." Roger Bishop Manager of Human Resource Operations, Harris Semiconductor < HARRIS JEMICONDUCTOR Alumni employees at Harris semiconductor include, row one: Robert English ‘S9. Blake Gillett M ‘95, Maria Rebollo ‘96, Chris Scarba '94, Barry tVoo4 ‘95. Row two: Marty Wentz ‘97, Linda Brush ‘77, M‘95, Paula Lampman Geiser '92, Dave Donlin ‘97, Don Pavinski Jr. ‘93. Paul Wodarczyk 'S6. Don Burton '79. Steve Valley '95. Dr. Vasu Choudhry, associate professor of Electrical Engineering and supervisor of the microelectronics fabrication facility in Wilkes's engineering department, agrees that the partner­ “You don’t find this type of emphasis in regular programs (offered at most schools)," Nejib says, ship between Wilkes and Harris has been benefi­ cial for the University. "so our students truly benefit." "We have a very expensive facility in terms of the investment and maintenance costs." Choudhry explains. "Most of our equipment has come from Harris.” In order to keep up with the ever-changing needs of technology, Wilkes has counted on com­ panies like Harris Semiconductor to provide the resources needed to make the latest technological Choudhry adds that Harris helps with the repair advances available to the students. "Equipment to teach engineering is very funda­ and maintenance of the equipment, as well as providing chemicals needed for the process of mental and expensive," Nejib says. "We're dealing with clean rooms and the cost can get very high. making an integrated circuit on a chip. These Our partnership works very well." experience the fabrication of an integrated circuit donations provide students with the opportunity to �WILKES UNIVERSE from chemical cleanup to testing and design. The Wilkes laboratory process includes 14 of the industry-standard 47-step process, covering all the basics of making and test­ ing the circuit and supplying the background for confi­ dent entry into further research or industry. Undergraduates at most universities never have the opportunity to experiment with the entire process. "This is one of the few universities in the East that has students produce a working power semi­ conductor device,” says Roger Bishop, manager of Human Resource Operations at Harris. It's this experience, says Bishop, that allows Wilkes B.S. graduates employed by the company to develop to a very equivalent level as those with a specialty doctorate from other Rmj Ford Presjdent of universities. As eviMountaintop Operations dence. he cites Ray Ford ‘74, an alumnus who serves as the plant's vice president for operations. The many Wilkes graduates 'working at Harris have formed a base for the success the company has experi­ enced in design and development activities. Bishop says, estimating that approximately 40 Wilkes graduates are employed by the company at any given time. Many of them have been taught by Harris employees who serve as part-time instructors and specialists at the University. In addition to supplying Harris with a steady stream of Pro Harris Semiconductor employs more than 40 Wilkes graduates at its Mountaintop facility: Paul Bath '91 Victor Nardone M'68 Linda Brush '77 M'85 Michael Novosel III '93 Donald Burton '79 Donald Pavinski Jr. '93 Thomas Carter '96 George Plantko '87 Joseph Cumbo '90 Angela Polity '95 David Donlin '97 Maria Rebollo '96 Rick Dolinski '96 Christopher Rexer '85 Frank Egenski '66 M'68 Mark Rinehimer '95 Robert English '89 David Ruskey '95 Raymond Ford '74 Christopher Scarba '94 Paula Lampman Geiser '92 James Scrobola '90 Joseph Gershey M'68 Richard Stokes '94 Blake Gillett M'95 Stephen Vahey '95 Thomas Grebs '83 Jeffrey Webster '93 Michael Hayes '91 Martin Wentz '97 Dale Hildebrand '68 Elna Gene Williams '85 David Hollock '77 Paul Wodarczyk '86 Chris Kocon '85 M'91 Barry Wood '95 Steven Kutney '90 Joseph Yedinak '77 Frederick Lokuta MS '68 Maxime Zafrani '85 Joseph Merli MS '91 Elaine Zarosky '72 qualified employees with undergraduate degrees, Wilkes also provides advanced degrees for company employees. Donald Burke, hon. ‘97, director of engi­ neering at Harris, says the ability to provide an avenue for people in the technical community to obtain an advanced degree nearby has been a great incentive in recruiting employees for the plant. Burke currently has three to four employees in his division pursuing masters' degrees at Wilkes. O HARRIS j ■ 1 -!J SEMICONDUCTOR Profile Future Wilkes students will continue to benefit from Harris's generosity. Choudhry explains that the micro­ electronics lab is currently undergoing renovations that will provide a nicer working environment and the opportunity for students to work with a more sophisti­ cated process. The upgrading of the lab will provide students with experience they might get only in a master’s degree program at other universities. Students also have the opportunity to work at Harris while completing their education through a coopera­ tive program, Choudhry says. The University is not the only one to benefit from the long-standing partnership with industry. Harris Semiconductor has been expanding over the past five to six years, Burke says, about 25 to 35 percent each year. The company recently completed a $160 million project that resulted in the world's first plant for fabricating integrated circuits on eight-inch silicon wafers. The new facility created 100 new jobs for the area, 50 of which require a high level education. Wilkes graduates working at the plant have made serious contributions to the technology that is head­ ing this expansion. Burke says the next phase of expansion—increas­ ing the capacity of the new wafer facility—is already underway. And the company is pushing ahead. With 1995 record sales of almost $240 million, Burke says Harris has a vision of becoming a $1 billion company. One of the big steps in reaching that goal may be a new electronic technology patented by Harris. The Row one: Chris Rexer ‘85, Tom Carter ‘96, Joe Cumbo '90, Elna Williams '85, George Plantko ‘87, Frank Egenski '66. Row two: Elaine Zarosky ‘70, Jeff Webster ‘95, Paul Bath '91, Joe Gershey M'68, Mark Rinehimer ‘95, Joe Yedinak '77, Steve Kutney ‘90, Rick Dolinski '96 new technology, called power electronic building blocks, or PEBB, was pioneered by Harris in con­ Angie Polny ‘95, Joe Merli ‘91, Dave junction with several federal agencies, including NASA, the US Navy and the Energy Department. Lokuta M'68, Maxime Zafrani ‘85. PEBB was developed over an eight-year period, with some of the research completed at the Mountaintop facility. PEBB technology involves a computer chip that allows engines to run more efficiently because it closely monitors their performance. Nejib says that manufacturers have long tried to minimize power loss in electrical motors. Prototypes have already been shipped to the Navy and other potential users, according to Burke. While no firm commitment has been made by the company at this point to build a plant for the manufacture of PEBB, Burke says that, when the time comes, there will be infrastructure Hollock ‘77. Janies Scrobola ‘90, Fred �WILKES universe changes to create a capaci■ ty the company does not cur­ rently have. United States Representative Paul Kanjorski, who was on hand when the new technology was announced last spring, says the PEBB could lead to a S1 billion investment and more than 1,000 jobs for the region. The possibility of such a large scale expansion and investment in jobs for the region has prompted the Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business and Industry to form a special task force to look at the impact such an expansion Prof j i would have. Howard Grossman, a member of the task force and executive director of the Economic Development Council of Northeast Pennsylvania. (EDCNP), explains that the organization wants to do all it can to help promote the super expansion at Harris, which currently employs 800 people locally. “Harris is the type of company we want to nurture and promote," Grossman says. He adds that a higher education community, such as Wilkes offers, is essential to the type of high tech development going on at Harris and to attracting similar types of busi- "TTn January, Wilkes recognized the relationship between I the two institutions by honoring one of Harris's top JLexecutives at the Mountaintop facility. Donald Burke, director of discreet power product development, was awarded an honorary doctor of science degree at com­ mencement exercises. Burke, who first came to the Wyoming Valley from Canada in 1963, expressed his gratitude to the University and cited the importance of Harris's relationship with Wilkes in improving the local economy. "Where do our engineers come from?" he asked. "In large part from Wilkes University." "It should be obvious to us all that technolog}' is never at rest. Just as technology' is to the well being of the Harris endeavor here, the nurturing of our most talented young people will (provide the well being of our society," said Burke. "Tire interdependence of Harris and Wilkes is immense. Both institutions are practitioners in technology and excellence... both provide the new sustenance for the local society." Putting the Harris expansion project and its importance into perspective for the area economy, Burke said having coal and the will to dig it may have been the work of the valley's past, but technology is the future. "The well being of our valley is now dependent upon our technology, not our natural resources. The will today must be not to dig, but to know," said Burke. Burke received a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering from the Technical University of Nova Scotia in 1954 and joined the heavy apparatus division of Canadian General Electric in switchgear and control equipment design. He then moved into systems application engineer­ ing, specializing in electronic potver conversion systems for aluminum refining and electrochemical processes and for large variable speed drives in the steel industry'. nesses to the area. Nejib feels that just having an orga­ nization such as Harris in the Wyoming Valley sends a signal to other compa­ nies contemplating a move to the area. And the relationship between Wilkes and Harris provides a good role model for future business/education efforts. "Our relationship is an ideal example of university-industry interaction," Nejib explains. “Sometimes, when a relation­ ship develops like this, one organiza­ tion overrides the other. Our relation­ ship is on such an even level, it pro­ vides a very good example." a Burke joined RCA in Mountaintop in 1963 as an applica­ tion engineering leader for thyristors and rectifiers, and moved with that group to New Jersey in 1967 to become engineering manager. In 1976, he returned to the Mountaintop plant to begin a quick turn design group. In 1980, Burke assumed responsibility for all power semi­ conductor engineering, moving all associated functions to the Mountaintop plant. Advanced development of Power MOS transistors was begun, and a new wafer processing facility was installed for these products. Assembly and test operations were converted to full-automation. Following the purchase of RCA, the product design activ­ ities of general electric power semiconductors were assimi­ lated into Mountaintop under Burke's leadership. He has continued his role in new product development under Harris Semiconductor. Burke resides in Mountaintop with his wife, Terry. They are the parents of five children, two of whom are graduates of Wilkes. The Burkes also have eight grandcluldren. "1 thank Wilkes for saying I have done something worth­ while. If I have contributed to securing for this valley bridge to the technology of the future, I see it as some recompense for the debt of welcome that I owe," Burke concluded. Dr. J. Michael Lennon robes Donald Burke upon bestowing an hon­ orary doctor of science degree at January Commencement. �- W Profj I I- L . ' 26 September, 7996. Ir.cracr. nUA • falling at incredible amoanis, so t sought shelter in a bombed-cut building. After exploring thepremises far a couple ofminutes, / realized nhere I was. I was standing in the middle ofnothing with a past that was everything. The Sarajevo National Library was cnee a cultural and historical landmark used to advance human existence. There is nothing left, Nothing. Ilater learned that the Serbs went out cf their way to destroy this building in particular because it held all the birth records. To uring their formative years, the children of the former Yugoslavia have been scarred by traumatic events they may never understand. Bom during the region's civil war, they took their first steps amid land mines and sniper fire, spoke their first words between gunshots and mortar blasts. They learned to ignore pangs of hunger and to stay warm with little shelter. Many were orphaned, their families killed or forced into exile dur­ ing the siege. It's been more than 10 years since Sarajevo hosted the Winter Olympic games. Signs still direct would-be visi­ tors to the Olympic Village and other venues throughout the city, but tire sites themselves no longer exist. Collapsed buildings and bullet-riddled cars now define a city that was once an international tourist destination. The fighting has subsided—at least for now—and the people of Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina are begin­ ning their lives anew. There are signs of progress. Houses have been rebuilt, businesses reopened and rubble hauled away. Beneath these surface The remains of the Sarajevo National Library destroy a whole existence. "You could just see it in their eyes. There's not even a word to explain the look they would get." SO Gary Fabiano '89 | i improvements lies the work most vital to the future of this country: fear and hopelessness must be replaced with purpose and hope. The region's future rests within its children, who must now learn that there is a world beyond the horrors of war. With that in mind, U.S.-based relief organization Save the Children has funded an experimental effort to rehabilitate the tens of thousands of children affected by the conflict. Conceived by humanitarian Jim Nutall, the program has established more than 600 play group centers throughout 68 cities and municipalities of Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina. Set up in empty shops, cafes, homes and churches, the preschools provide a refuge where 3-7 year-olds can escape reminders of the disturbing events that have shaped their young lives. Over the past four years, more than 18,000 children have been enrolled. The play groups combine an educational curricu­ lum with psychological counseling and parental involvement—a structured, supportive forum for playing and learning. Children attend in small groups for three hour shifts so that each can receive individual attention. Save the Children provides start-up materials and funding for each new center's first nine months, anticipating that they will be self-sufficient after that. Teachers are chosen from within the community and mothers are trained to serve as teacher's aides, giv­ ing them a desperately needed sense of purpose. Freelance photographer Gary Fabiano '89 trav­ elled throughout Bosnia-Herzegovina to document the program in October, 1996. He visited play centers in Sarajevo, Tuzla, Mostar and neighboring munici­ palities, taking photographs of the children and their surroundings. Before shooting a single frame, Fabiano got to know the children. He laughed and played with them to make them comfortable with this latest stranger in their space. On the surface, he says, they are not unlike typical pre-schoolers—play­ ful and boisterous, affectionate and sharing—but they reveal their pain in many ways. "For the most part, children are children, it doesn't matter 27September, 7996. We travelled to what language they speak," Tuzla. Every building on our drive says Fabiano. ' But I noticed a was destroyed. I asked Thierry to little more stress. >011 could just pull the truck over so I couldphotosee it in their eves. 1 here's not graph, a building covered inpoliti­ even a word Io explain the look cal graffiti. /wanted to explore the the\ would get. building and the surrounding area I abi.ino found that ordinary more but I had this unnerving feele\ enls ran Iriggei tils ul panic ' ing aboutstepping t ,__ g on a land mine. rt rule of thumb they teach here is in the children \t one center, 2 that ifyou do not see anyone he , j child who had i around it is for good reason. ho one 1 had been there in quite some time. �I V ERSE Bombed-out buildings and destroyed automobiles in Sarajevo Profile "It must be very, 29 September difficult for these children, because ■' ca^ under. they keep experi­ tAsinages “Cereal £ve encing the same ^^■ooldieroZ^^lera.restimuli with the ^feampo,^ f ng’ e<*een. same results. They keep get­ trruig to forget. aettfroze ting re-trauma2 October, , ^rCnain^-^<ltlu. tized," says Adair. "They f^orrdered Z k°USe need to learn ffoivo children.? ? Ho ‘v -were to think dif­ Norite were their ferently t,lergo? f foui^^^Aoredid about the world." '^ouee. fmeu The Save I will, ^‘fteoer^ people the Children play groups are designed to achieve this end by remov--------- [ ing children from the destructive environment while teaching them to share their feelings. "They have to be able to express their emotions," says Adair. "They also need to have a support net­ work." Hie program encourages such peer interaction, and addresses problems of stress and distress through structured activities. The walls of the play­ rooms are decorated with crayoned artwork, some of which depicts scenes the children might have wit­ nessed during the war, says Fabiano. These artistic exercises nurture their self-confidence and provide an outlet for free expression. By all accounts, the program is making a difference. So far, more than 150 preschools have become self-sustaining centers of education, safety and fun for children and their families. In many communities, the schools have taken on an even greater significance—they are one of the first signs that conditions are improving. That's not a small victory, since the health and sta­ bility of the Balkan region depends upon their success. H —Vaughn A. Shinkus '91 y^'ZZZeid joined the group late mistook his camera flash for a mortar blast. Tire boy clung tightly to his mother and forced his eyes closed, as if he were trying to disappear. "He wouldn't let go of her leg," Fabiano says. "The kid was scared to death." Such actions are symptomatic of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a psychological condition caused by witnessing violent events, says Dr. Holiday Adair, Wilkes associate professor of psy­ chology. Symptoms include an emotional numbing, heightened arousal, depression, hyperactivity and, often, involuntary flashbacks and nightmares about tire disturbing events. To overcome PTSD, sufferers must learn to recreate the same events with a posi­ tive outcome. J Toy guns arc common among the boys, who often act out scenes they might have wit­ nessed during the war. About the Photographer A freelance photographer based in Manhattan, New York, Gary Fabiano has had his work published in The New York Times, and other interna­ tional publications and distributed by United Press International . A Neptune, N.J. native. Fabiano graduated from Wilkes in 1989 with a Bachelor of Arts degree concentrated in painting and sculpture. After exploring the medium of expressionistic painting, Fabiano says he had a desire to work in a more concrete medium. He began working in pho­ tography more than two years ago because of its “ability to capture human existence." These photographs, which were part of a group show exhibited at Amherst College's Marsh Gallery last year, are one phase of a larger pro­ ject in which Fabiano documented organizations that offer experimental solutions to social problems. "I have always been a socially con­ scious person," Fabiano says. "It's so easy to just point out a problem, but you never really see anyone go out of their way to offer solutions.” Fabiano says his aim is to show that the actions of a few can make a difference in helping others. He spent nearly a year in New York's Bowery mission documenting a program that rehabilitates homeless and drug addicted men who voluntarily enter to turn their lives around. He also pho­ tographed members of the communi­ ty who joined the Americorp volunteer program. “I don’t think it’s fair that we just tune these things out," Fabiano says. “I think it's our responsibility to do something. It's not about money, it's about just trying." ______ �WILKES UNIVERSE ■ Penning the Great American Novei ■ By Melanie O'Donnell '93 A 4"eve over, John Grisham, Dr. Seuss J-VJLand Maya Angelou ... the next book on the nightstand just might have the name of a Wilkes graduate on the dust jacket. Writing—the career with a mystique perhaps only second to performing—has attracted dozens of Wilkes students across the decades, and several with the right talent and persistence have managed to make their love their liveli­ hood. The craft of writing opens up numer­ ous possibilities, according to Dr. Patricia B. Heaman '61, chair of the Wilkes English department. "A person who can write can do almost anything,'' she says. True to her prediction, most alumni writ­ ers have turned their talents toward prac­ tical uses while exploring their creative potential. "Everything I've done had something to do with writing,'' says Beverly Major Schwartz, '61, who has taught in both col­ leges and public schools, run her own public relations agency, worked as a grant writer, and published four children's books. B3 Her first book, The Magic Pizza, pub­ lished in 1978, grew out of her research for a children's literature class she was teaching. Having spent a summer reading dozens of children's books, Schwartz felt confident that she could write a children's story as well as many of the authors she was reading. At her husband's prompt­ ing, she did, and the book was accepted at the first publishing house to review it. Her second book, Porcupine Stew, fol­ lowed in 1982; then came Playing Sardines (1988) and Over Back (1993). Another book remains unsold, and Schwartz plans to write again "if all the stars are right," she jokes. "It takes a dogged persistence." Catherine McCormick Gourley '72 agrees. "Stay hungry," she says. "Good writers are not published because they give up." Gourley's published work includes five books (a mixture of fiction and nonfiction), short stories, and nonfic­ tion articles, written for audiences rang­ ing from young adults to mature readers. Her diligence has recently enabled her to pursue her writing on a full-time basis; however, she has shared Schwartz's expe- rience of working in writing-related occu­ pations for many years. Gourley credits her 10-year teaching tenure and eight-year career as editor of Read, a magazine for young adults, with helping her to become a published author. "In teaching kids how to write, I was teaching myself how to write," she says. Her position at Read exposed her to the vital workings of the publishing industry. "I learned the editor's side of the desk, which is incredibly valuable as a writer," she says. It also exposed her to other contacts in the industry, and Gourley began receiving offers to do free­ lance nonfiction work for adolescents. Her books Hunting Neptune's Giants and Sharks are targeted for this age group, as is her upcoming biography of female avi­ ator Beryl Markham and a short story col­ lection she edited titled Read If You Dare. Gourley's enthusiasm for her nonfic­ tion projecls—"I get excited to do some­ thing no one has done before," she says— doesn't negate her passion for her fiction writing. She has published several short stories (one of which, "Breaker Boy," was broadcast as a play on National Public Radio) and a historical novel, The Courtship of Joanna. Working as a commis­ sioned nonfiction writer enables her to devote more time to her fiction writing— a common status for many professional writers. Balancing labors of love with writing for a reliable income is a daily routine for Martin Naparsteck '69, who, after years of teaching and newspaper writing, now also devotes himself full-time to freelance writing. While Naparsteck's publication credits include 26 short stories and two novels, his freelance nonfiction work and book reviews absorb much of his time. He sells about a half dozen short stories each year to magazines such as Ellery Queen and Buffalo Spree. "I don't make money from fiction," he admits, "but I would rather be published." Like exercise or eating right, Naparsteck views his writing as a daily habit: "some things you do your whole life." His novel War Song is a good exam­ ple. Begun in his creative writing class at Wilkes, the book was expanded and revised over several years, and finally published in 1980. A second novel, A Hero's Welcome, followed. Since the publi­ cation of his novels, Martin's focus has shifted from the Vietnam war—the topic of both books—to psychological sus­ pense. He believes it is important to not stereotype himself as a writer and has begun to write experimental fiction. His first love, however, is the novel, which he terms "the highest art form ever created," and which is also his current creative pro­ ject. Dr. Brent Spencer '74, assistant profes­ sor of English and director of Creative Writing at Creighton University (and a published novelist and short story writer), offers these words of wisdom to his students in Creative Writing Seminar: "The point is not to learn how to write like others (and certainly not like the teacher) but how to write like yourself—a very difficult task, as any serious writer knows." Gourley agrees that serious writers need to develop confidence in their voic­ es. "Trust your voice to make decisions," she advises. Tracy Youells '94 did just that. A pub­ lished poet and Ph.D. candidate at SUNYBinghamton, Youells became dissatisfied MET” - with the medium of her art form, and sought a better way to capture the emo­ tion of her poetry. Her answer came in the form of performance poetry. "Performing reaches a wider audi­ ence, she explains. "It can never be the same thing twice. I treat poetry like music or drama, and I can now show students the oral aspects of poetry." To date, Youells has performed in Madison, Wisconsin; Binghamton, New York; and is scheduled to appear in Boston at Cambridge University. For her dissertation, she plans to turn 20 of her poems into visual representations that will be installed in the Binghamton University art gallery. "I feel fortunate to have an opportuni­ ty to have the space to create poems and share what I do with the audience," she says. Youells is now teaching her first cre­ ative writing class. Her advice? "Read a lot. Live up to your own tastes. It doesn't matter what people say as long as you're satisfied." Dr. Amy Elias '83, associate professor of English at the University of Alabama, tells her students to "be fearless." While Elias's publishing is usually academic, she faces industry competition similar to that of the creative writers. Like Naparsteck and Schwartz, Elias has dis­ covered that getting published depends largely upon the "trendy" material pub­ lishers are seeking at the time. That can be dangerous for young scholars and writers, she says, who can lose sight of the path that is right for them. "If you love your work and you see yourself as having something valuable to say," she advises, "there are places you can have that listened to. Do it because you like it, and it will withstand the passage of time." "There is room in this country for 20 to 40 writers of good fiction," claims Naparsteck. "Unfortunately, there's a thousand of them." And Schwartz won't deny the existence of luck, either. "Just write and write and write. It's a matter of the right place at the right time. Do some­ thing all the time. Be persistent." Then there is always the tongue-incheek mantra from John Gardner s The Art of Fiction, the virtual bible of many creative writing seminar: "Whatever works is good." Profile �WILKES UNIVERSE ” >' 0 f i I el A Front Row View of the Technological Revolution I - -nigh! Be said trust" e , ‘ Emrys P. "Eas;-" Lewis '45 was present at the I birth of the technological nevciuiton. An engineer with the Bell ( -■-Telephone System, bls career sparmed rcrar decades of the most spectacular growth in the tefeconmamications industry'. He watched the telephone evolve from a "race to have" convenience to a vital necessity; and played a major role in the transition after the break| up of the Ma Bell monopoly. Bom July 3,1926, Lewis attended Nanticoke fPa.) public schools and matriculated at 'Ar.kes ~ precursor, Bucknell University Junior College. After completing r.is t-.-.-o years at BUJC, he joined the Army Air Force and taught algebra, trigonometry and surveying at the Air Force Engineering School. After discharge, he completed his studies in electrical engineering at Permsyh.ania State University, graduating with honors from an accelerated program in 1947. He later would study leadership development at Carlton College, senior management at MIT, marketing at Wharton School and retail marketing at Arden House Columbia. After a stint as an underground surveyor for the Susquehanna Coal Company, Lewis began his telecommunications career with Bell of Pennsylvania in 1949. He quickly rose to district superintendent, and in 1958 was transferred to AT&T's New' York headquarters to serve as the system's first number services planning engineer. In this capacity, he devel­ oped the "555-1212" directory assistance number and was responsible for the conversion of telephone numbers from their former letter/number system. He returned to Bell of Pennsylvania in I960 as division manager, serving in Philadelphia, Harrisburg and Pittsburgh, and was named gener­ al manager of Marketing for Eastern Pennsylvania and Delaware in 1968. In 1976, he coordinated the 100th annual meeting of AT&T Company, Philadelphia, which commemorated the first public demonstration of the telephone at the Centennial Exhibition at Fairmount Park in 1876. Profile When the anti-trust settlement that established the "baby Bell" local tele­ phone companies was announced in 1982, Lewis rejoined AT&T to devise a business plan for managing divestiture of the com­ pany's $13 billion phone, teletype and equipment leasing assets. Before retiring from AT&T in 1984, he was based in Washington as area vice president, estab­ lishing business operations for the com­ pany's six-state Middle Atlantic Region. Upon retirement, he served as director of Marketing at Blue Bell, Pa.-based con­ sulting firm Henkels & McCoy. Before his death in March, he summarized the advances in telecommunications he wit­ nessed throughout his career. Below are excerpts from his essay, "What Happened to the Bell System: A Perspective from the Front Seat on the Trip." The Immediate Need Postwar Lewis began his career during the period of unprecedented demand for tele­ phone service that followed World War II. Only two thirds of American households had telephone service, and one third of existing exchanges were manually switched—callers were greeted by an operator rather than today's familiar dial tone. "The immediate need was to cope with the unprecedented demand for telephone service to serve the (segment) of the pop­ ulation that now seemed suddenly to find a need for telephone service," wrote Lewis. "As veterans returned, finished their education, and began to establish family units, housing developments sprang up everywhere, with consequent demand for telephone service. Some of that demand came from veterans who, when they were in the service, found the telephone a valuable link to home." According to Lewis, this rapid growth rate was straining the country's invest­ ment capital and exhausting the supply of employable females, who served as switchers and operators in the days before mechanized switching. This put Pressure on the industry to convert—at a significant cost—from manual exchanges to electromagnetic equipment which would allow customer dialing. Direct dialing was made available as fast as automatic switching systems and billing systems could be installed in exchanges, but much of the old dial equipment was still unable to route and bill calls. It would be another 18 years before it was all replaced," wrote Lewis. Customer dialing of long distance calls also helped with the demographics prob­ lem of not enough employable women, since it began to reduce the number of operators needed. Rate structures were revised to make calls cheaper when dialed direct and more expensive when an operator assisted. This incentive drove customers to dial their own calls when possible. It wouldn't be until the 1970's when men began to appear as operators under the pressure of equal employment opportunity to help with the demograph­ ics of available women." Telephone Rates and New Technology In the 1950’s, the heightened cost of replacing manual equipment with electro­ magnetic equipment made an increase in local telephone rates necessary. According to Lewis, rate increases were only begrudgingly granted by state utility commissions, who worried about the political implications of increasing voters' utility rates. Technology had the opposite result on the long distance business. In 1949, a long distance circuit cost $60 per circuit mile on copper wires. By the time Lewis retired, the cost had dropped to less than $1 per circuit mile because of fiber optic technology, which enables a strand slight­ ly larger than a human hair to earn' up to 12,000 conversations. "One can quickly see that one 48 fiber cable which is about the size of my mid­ dle finger could carry 240,000 conversa­ tions or more with this technology, wrote Lewis. "This change in technology drove down the cost of long distance call­ ing tremendously. Those users who benefitted were mostly businesses. Opening The Door to Competition Lewis was on the inside as the FCC made several decisions that gradually opened the door to competition against AT&T. In 1956, the so-called "Final Judgment" settlement of a 1949 anti-trust case required AT&T to license all of its Bell Labs inventions to all who paid a license fee, and restricted AT&T to pro­ vide only telephone-related services. A 1958 decision made bandwidth available for microwave use, allowing other com­ panies to build microwave transmitters for internal communications and, in some cases, for regular telephone communica­ tions. The final decision that opened the door for competition against Ma Bell was the 1967 Carterphone decision, which enabled non-Bell System devices to be connected to Bell System lines. Soon after, MCI blossomed with a microwave system from Chicago to St. Louis to handle long distance business from former Bell System customers at a rate below AT&T rates. "From this point on, competition was a way of life, but the Bell System was regu­ lated by tariffs and by FCC constraints, while competitors were free to attack the telephone company markets wherever they chose," wrote Lewis. "And compete they did. MCI grew stronger and expand­ ed into new areas and new technology, Sprint appeared and they both underpriced AT&T because of the regulatory cost structure under ■which AT&T operat­ ed." Divestiture Agreement "In 1975, the Department of Justice filed an anti-trust case again against the Bell System rendering the Final Judgment not so final," wrote Lewis. "This -was set­ tled by a divestiture agreement on January S, 1982—which became effective on January 1,1984—called the Modified Final Judgment. There was still hope that it would be final." The case was a continuing drain on the energies of the AT&T Company/ accord­ ing to Lewis. Competitors were under- FTW �WILKES U N I VERS l: and depreciation unv '.. alien'd a. h'v the 21 telephone .oinpanio-. ot the Hell System. "Rates tor the same piece ot equipmetn were dinerent tn dmerent stales, lull tor mats were ditterent in ditlvtvnt pla.vs We had to think about what would t»e needed to bill, otder install, repair deptv ciate and market the telephone equip ment on customers premises.. I or each function we had to look at it and divide what it should be like after January I 1984." A year later, Lewis was charged with setting up business service operation in the system’s Middle Atlantic region, which employed 2,250 people in six states. Throughout the transition, existing systems were kept operating to maintain continuity of service. "On January 1,1984 we were on our own. It was an emotionally charged moment, gut wrenching and an emotional high at the same time. Old Ma Bell was dead. It would never be the same again. And fortunately everything worked." pricing AT&T sen-ices i£ / because of the subsidy AT&T I y carried for local service. It was _ ' becoming clear that the case would -at be resolved for years, if ever. MeamvrLe competitors were attacking markets ever.v. here and the Bell System was restricted in its response bv the 1956 antitrust settlement "While the hearings carried on there obviously were back room discussions going on and various proposals being made. One such that I was aware of was an accounting separation where monop­ oly services would be accounted for sepa­ rately from competitive services in return for relief from the 1956 decree and some other benefits. This idea held sway for quite a while but finally- was rejected as unworkable. There were too many situa­ tions that could r.ot be defined dearly as competitive or monopoly.’' It -was finally becoming clear to those at AT&T that a restructuring and break­ up was the only solution to an inter­ minable anti-trust case, wrote Lewis. On January 8, 1982, Charles Brown, AT&T chairman and William Baxter, attorney general, announced that the Bell System would be broker, up and begin operating as separate entities on January 1,1984. Local services would be provided by seven regional Bell companies and long distance service could be provided by other companies. The seven baby Bells were defined and had to be named. Wrote Lewis, "We had some fun com­ ing up with potential names, like "Yankee Bell," "Liberty Bell," "Southern Belle," "Cow Beil," "Tinker Bell," but in due course saner people took over and the names you know today were coined." Lewis believed that divestiture was the only' way' to settle the anti-trust case, and that it allowed AT&T to compete with­ out restriction in any' business it could manage. "It was a good move," he wrote. "Customers have more choices. Technology moves at a faster pace with­ out the dead hand of regulation on it. The telephone companies are _ more aggressively looking at new opportunities as Moving on After the Death of Ma Bell providers, bandwidth purveylong distance As staff director in March 1982, Lewis's job was to devise a business plan for managing divestiture of the company's S13 billion phone, teletype and equip­ ment leasing assets. Records of the equip­ ment, its revenue stream, age, condition, a Thoughts on Divestiture 0 r of i i e~\ pre\ hli'i ’i and Viii'loim oilier opportuni­ ties Noire ol lltlh would have been possi­ ble below the dlve'illture and the regula­ tor climate that then existed. As I see it the break up ol the Hell System unleashed d\ namlv loives In technology, manage­ ment, and business that are carrying us to a better lullin'.” I ewis anticipated that competition for providing residential two-way communi­ cation would heighten in the late 1990s. With cable companies already connected to the home and telephone companies connected as well, there is sure to be efforts by each one to get into the others business and pre-empt the competitors revenue stream." His prediction was correct. In 1996, Congress passed the Telecommunications Act of 1996, which allows competition among telephone, cable and other telecommunications providers. The legis­ lation has created a race for dominance in the market, as cable and telephone com­ panies scramble to develop technologies and overtake the others. Wrote Lewis, "Who will win? It's too early to tell... Stay tuned for future devel­ opments because communication technol­ ogy is so dynamic that what is not possi­ ble today will be possible with the next technological break-through tomorrow in this competitive world." Wl __ Alumni News Wilkes License Plates Available socialize. Specialized Wilkes University Alumni license Diates have been produced and are now avail­ able from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. The special organization plates are embla­ zoned with the Wilkes ^^^ilkeTuniversityMumni I WuOO100 For information about joining or forming an aumm chapter in your area, contact the Alumni Office. 11 Pennsylvanja_^^^^J University emblem and marked “Wilkes University Alumni." They are available for Pennsylvania registered passenger cars, motor homes and trucks with a gross weight of less than 9,000 pounds. Motorcycles and trailers do not qualify, and personalized plates are not available. A one time fee of $20, separate from annual registration fees, is charged for each plate. To receive an application form, contact the Alumni Office Regional Alumni Chapters Hold First Events Alumni in New York and Pennsylvania cities have organized regional chapters and held pre­ miere gatherings of Wilkes alumni from their area. The New York City Chapter, led by chapter president Rick Fuerman ‘91, hosted an October wine tasting event on October 8 at the Gramercy Park Hotel in Manhattan. Several alumni from the New York City area attended. Ron Kapon of the Wine Taster's Guild gave wine tasting. More than 40 Philadelphia-area alumni attended the Great Philadelphia Cheesesteak Event held October 12 on Boathouse Row. Wilkes president Christopher Breiseth present­ ed a Wilkes banner to chapter president David Yakaitis ‘78. Dean George Ralston and his wife, Helen, were special guests at the Twin Tiers chapter Fall Fling Dinner, held October 24 at the Shepard Hills Country Club, Waverly, New York. Planned by chapter president Dr. Mario Silvestri ‘82 and vice president Dr. David Talent! '84, the event drew more than 25 alumni from the Binghamton area. In the Wilkes-Barre-area, the Luzerne County chapter hosted a November beer tasting event at the Lion Brewery, Inc. for alumni from the region. Alumni in Harrisburg have been meeting for several years and oflen hold dinner gatherings ln me area. The group is led by Carl Juris ‘59. Alumni chapters are designed to initiate and Promote activities that further the welfare ol l kes and its alumni, foster a dialogue about 10 changing nature of the University, assist in February 6-15,1998 President Christopher N. Breiseth Florida Tour Tampa Bay, Naples, Miami, , Orlando Planning for Reunion Weekend 1998 Underway The Alumni Association is making plans for Reunion Weekend 1998, which will be held June 5-7, 1998 on campus. Alumni from the classes of '38, '43, '48, '53, 58, 63, 68, 73. '78, '83, '88 and ‘93 are invited back to campus to celebrate their reunion. Plans include a Friday evening reception, class meetings, an outdoor barbecue, an all-class dinner and the traditional Golden Colonel brunch. Steering committees are being formed of alumni from each class to plan special class activities, locate missing alumni, and help pro­ mote Reunion Weekend events. The Alumni Office has prepared a Reunion Planning Handbook to assist class chairs and committee members in planning their events. Committee chairs are: Atty. Joseph J. Savitz ‘48, 50th reunion class; Atty. Theodore Krohn '53, 45th Reunion Class; Ronald Tremayne ‘58, 40th Reunion Class; Gerald J. Zezza, Jr. '63, 35th Reunion Class; Dr. Elizabeth Slaughter '68, 30th Reunion Class; Atty. Linell Lukesh ‘72, 25th Reunion Class; Dr. Thomas G. Urosevich ‘83, 15th Reunion Class; Angelo J. Bertinelli 88, Craig Rome '88 and Michelle Rovinsky ‘88, 10th Reunion Class; Jacqueline (Jadi) Willison ‘93, 5th Reunion Class. If you are a member of one of the Reunion classes and would like to help plan your reunion activities, contact the Alumni Office. IF March 28,1998 Fourth Annual Alumni Scholarship Dinner Dance The Woodlands Inn and Resort June 5-7,1998 I Reunion Weekend 1998 : ^Wilkes'Campus . September 18-20,1998 Homecoming Weekend Wjlkes Campus ;~- Alumni Office Contact Information !__1 Sandra Beynon Nicholas M '85 Executive Director of Alumni Jennifer Bullock Assistant Director of Alumni Alumni Directory Still Available The Alumni Association, in conjunction with Bernard C. Harris Publishing Company, Inc., has released a directory of more than 21,000 Wilkes alumni. The directory includes current address, phone, academic, business and e-mail informa­ tion obtained from Alumni Office records and a mailing to the alumni body. The directory is available in a hardbound edi- I tion for $60 or in * a softbound edi-/ tion for $57, iBoth carry a [’■ $7.95 handling charge. To i order a direc- / tory. call the g Alumni f Olfice. / Hi William Goldsworthy, Jr. '76 Alunmi Association President j I Phone: (717) 408-4130 1-800-WILKES-U, : ■__ extension 4130 Email: ahmiailifcolonel.csc.wilkes.edu Mail: Alumni Office W ilkes University P.O. Box 111 Wilkes-Barre. PA 18766 �W I L KES UNIVERSE _____ Surgeon, CEO Given Top Alumni Awards A physician and businessman were presented with the Alumni Association top awards at commencement cere­ monies in May and August. Distinguished Young Alumnus Award Neurosurgeon David J. Sedor, M.D. '85 was presented the Distinguished Young Alumnus Award at 50th annual spring commencement exercises in May. Sedor is a partner with Neurosurgical Specialties of Northeastern Pennsylvania, based in Wilkes-Barre. He has been hon­ ored by members of the Northeastern Pennsylvania medical community for his efforts to establish a new medical proce­ dure in the region. Sedor has spearhead­ ed a movement to obtain Gamma Knife technology, a non-invasive method of removing brain tumors which is currently available in only 28 locations throughout the country. In a nominating letter for the award, the parents of a former Wilkes student treated by Sedor praised his profession­ alism and expertise. Christopher “C. B.” Miller was critically injured after falling from a third floor porch after the railing failed. Sedor first served as Miller's primary physician and later coordinated the team of medical workers who provid­ ed his care. "Although Dr. Sedor tends to downplay his impact on the overall survival of C.B.," Miller's father, Michael, wrote, “it is our opinion that he was responsible for sav­ ing our son's life. He utilized the latest in treatment philosophy and techniques to bring C.B. from the edge of death... Without David Sedor we would not be witnessing the major miracle of our lives." Sedor received his doctor of medicine degree with honors from Hahnemann University School of Medicine, 1 Philadelphia. Pa. He served surgical resi­ dencies at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh (Pa.), and Robert Packer Hospital, Sayre, Pa., and neurosurgical residencies at University of Connecticut, Farmington. Conn, and Hahnemann University. He is a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society, and the American, Pennsylvania and Luzerne County Medical Societies. The Distinguished Young Alumnus Award is given annually to a Wilkes alum­ nus graduated within the past 15 years who best exemplifies the traditions of Wilkes University: vision, understanding of people, maintenance of convictions and loyalty, respect for difference and adherence to ideals that create unity and good will amidst diversity. Alumni N e ws Eugene S. Farley Memorial Alumni Award William P. Montague '68, M’77, presi­ dent and chief operating officer of Clarence, New York corporation Mark IV Industries, Inc., was given the Eugene S. Farley Memorial Alumni Award at summer commencement ceremonies in August. Montague's former accounting profes­ sor and “hero," President Emeritus Robert Capin presented the award, praising Montague's determined work ethic and success. "(Montague) repre­ sents the best of our expectations for our students,” Capin said. A 1968 graduate of Wilkes with a bachelor's degree in accounting, Montague earned his MBA from the University in 1977. He joined Mark IV as controller in 1972, after serving for four years as senior accountant with account­ ing firm Deloitte and Touche. He has advanced steadily through the corporate ranks at Mark IV, serving as treasurer, vice president of finance and chief finan­ cial officer before being named president and chief operating officer in 1996. Montague is a certified public accoun- 211umni News tant in New York and Pennsylvania and a member of the Financial Executive Institute and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. In 1989, he was named Western New York Accountant of the Year. He also serves as a director of Gibraltar Steel Corporation and International Imaging Materials, Inc. Active in the community, Montague serves as a member of the finance advi­ sory board at St. Gregory The Great Church, of the council on accountancy at Canisius College and on the board of directors at Children's Hospital of Buffalo and the University of Buffalo Foundation. Named for Wilkes's first president, the Eugene S. Farley Memorial Alumni Award is presented annually to an alumnus who epitomizes the characteristics of an edu­ cated person as formulated and adopted by the Wilkes faculty in the 1948 creed, "Marks of an Educated Person." Sedor and Montague were selected for the awards by the University's Alumni Association board of directors from nomi­ nees provided by faculty, friends and fel­ low alumni. ■ Previous recipients: Eugene S. Farley Memorial Alumni Award 1980 - J. Warren Blaker, Ph.D. '55 1981 - Joseph P. Lord, Ph.D. '35 1982 - The Hon. Jeffry H. Gallet '64 1983 - William F. Raub, Ph.D. '61 1984 - Paul A. Wender, Ph.D., '69 1985 - Selina L. Edwards Reed, '40 Alumni Association President William Goldsworthy, Jr. '76 presents the Distinguished Young Alumnus Award to Neurosurgeon David /. Sedor, M.D. '85. William P. Montague ‘68, M'77, chief operating officer of Clarence, New York corporation Mark IV Industries, Inc., receives the Eugene S. Farley Memorial Alumni Award from his former professor. President Emeritus Robert S. Capin. 1991 - Frank Zane, B.S. '64 1992 - John J. Pikulski, Ph.D. '63 1993 - Charles N. Bums, Sr. M.D. '35 1994 - The Hon. Jeremiah E. Berk '63 1995 - Demetrios G. Papademetriou, Ph.D. '70 1996 - Merri Jones Earl '58 Distinguished Young Alumnus Award 1986 - Catherine DeAngelis, M..D., '65 1987 - Charles A. Sorber, Ph.D. '59 1988-Jesse Choper,S.S. '57 1989 - William H. Tremayne '57 1990 - William R. Mainwaring '65 Marks of 1980 - Dan F. Kopen, M.D. '70 1981 - Stephen A. Keiper '73 1982 - Eduardo Marban, Ph.D. '74 1983 - Nancylee M. Landi '75 1984 - Christine Donahue, '74 1985 - Paul A. Chromey, D.P.M. '76 1986 - Paul Domowitch '77 1987 - James H. Calkins, Esq. '76 1988 - Gregory F. Hollis '74 1989 - Capt. William Urosevich '76 1990 - Capt. Patricia A Patrician '82 1991 - Joseph W. Dettmore '76 1992 - Chris Woolverton, Ph.D. '82 1993 - John H. Ellis IV, M.D. '79 1994 - Robert C. Olivia, B.M. '86 1995 - Jeffrey S. Yablon, M.D. '80 1996 - Patricia J. Arthur, B.S. ’86 An Educated Person: Seeks truth, for without truth there can be no understanding; Possesses vision, for vision precedes all great attainments, Is aware of the diversity of ideas and beliefs that exist among people. Knows that progress requires intellectual vigor, moral courage and Cultivates inner resources and spiritual strength, for they enru 1 ^‘^dsustain uf ■ ‘ Respects the religions convictions of all; Participates constructively in Un’ social, economic, cultural, and] <1'1“" ■ Communicates ideas in a manner that assures understanding-ter w-> ... ' , . lime* of crisis; ,• .tV,imjmitw ,;,r nrif.'i. ; ‘ �WILKES . - ■ UNIVERSE Coach Sheptock Honored for Gridiron Achievements Frank Sheptock is a hands-on kinda’ guy. Wilkes's head football coach likes to get in the middle of the action and show his plavers how it's done. A three-time former All-American at Bloomsburg University, Sheptock certainly knows how to play the game. Need proof? Ask the committee of current and for­ mer sports information directors who recently voted him one of the best Division II players of the last quar­ ter century. The voting comes as Division II celebrates its 25th anniversary', with the players to be honored before the NCAA Division II National Championship game in Florence, Alabama on December 13th. Several day's before the team was announced, Sheptock received a call alerting him of his selection as a linebacker. He is still in awe. "I'm humbled by' the fact I am included on a team which features a few NFL Hall of Famers and several who are still playing professionally'," says Sheptock. "This is certainly' an honor I will treasure for the rest of my life. Never did I consider my'self part of the elite in my' sport, but it's nice to know that someone has recognized my accomplishments." Head football coach olonels o zz E x c eI Ie nce Former Wilkes head coach Joe DeMelfi, who coached Sheptock on defense at Bloomsburg and brought him to Wilkes in 1990, is not surprised about the honor given to his former assistant coach. "I'm pleased but not surprised that Sheptock was named to this team," says DeMelfi. "He was someone ■who had a great deal of success during a time when Bloomsburg began to experience success as a team. Frank is one of the better players in their school history." "I always knew that Frank would be successful because he was a very dedicated and disciplined player in high school," adds DeMelfi. "This is a great honor for him." Among those joining Sheptock on the team are for­ mer Chicago Bears great Walter Payton, who played at Jackson State; Buffalo Bills star Andre Reed, who played at Kutztown; Pittsburgh Steelers alumni John Stallworth, who played at Alabama A&M, and Greg Lloyd, who played at Fort Valley State; and former New York Giants punter Sean Landetta, who played at Towson State. At Bloomsburg, Sheptock was a three-time All-East Linebacker as well as a four time All-Pennsylvania first team choice. He still holds Bloomsburg records for tack­ les in a game, with 23; tackles in a season, with 159; and tackles in a career, with 537; in addition to most fumble recoveries in a career, with 12. Sheptock helped Bloomsburg revive a program that had gone 0-10 the year before his arrival. During his career at Bloomsburg, the Huskies won more games each year and reached the NCAA Division II Final Four during his senior year. That team finished with a record of 12-1 and won the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Championship. Sheptock’s tenure as a coach at Wilkes has paralleled his career at Bloomsburg. Joining the University as an assistant coach in 1990 with Joe DeMelfi, Sheptock helped revive a team that had seen victories come few and far between. Under DeMelfi and Sheptock, the Colonels soon were transformed into a winning group that captured the 1993 Middle Atlantic Conference championship and earned a berth in the NCAA play­ offs. In 1994 and 1996, the Colonels also reached the ECAC championship game, winning the 1994 Southeast Championship. Sheptock was named head coach when DeMelfi retired after the 1995 season. In his first season, he guided the Colonels to a record of 8-3 and came within one game of the NCAA playoffs. o n e I s of Excellence Lady Colonels Fight Cancer with Three Point Attack After watching Jenny Casterline suf­ fer with cancer, Wilkes head women's bas­ ketball Coach Karen Haag knew she had to do something to help others affect­ ed by the disease. Jenny, sister of Lady Colonels’ assistant coach Renee Casterline ‘97, was an avid Wilkes basketball fan and fine player in her own right. Her death from leukemia in April, 1995 impelled Haag to get involved with the Coaches versus Cancer Three Point Attack program. Sponsored by the American Cancer Society, the program raises funds by soliciting donations based on the number of three-point baskets made by a team throughout the season. "This is an important cause for me and for the team," Haag says. "I've seen Jenny suffer from cancer and I'm hoping, as a team, we can do something to help others and promote cancer research." Members of the team will solicit spon­ sors, who will make a donation for each three pointer made by the Lady Colonels, according to Haag. Based on last years' team record of 114 three-point baskets, a Pledge of 25 cents would raise $28.50 for the American Cancer Society. A pledge of 50 cents for each three pointer would net $57. The previous year, the team hit 95 The Three-Point Attack is the first nation­ al fundraising effort of the Coaches vs. Cancer alliance, which was formed in October, 1993 between the Association of Basketball Coaches and the American Cancer Society. The program is aimed at raising funds to support the American Cancer Society's three-pronged approach to fighting cancer through research, patient services and education. The program is sponsored by IKON Office Solutions. For the past two years, several schools throughout Pennsylvania have gotten involved with the program. Teams from West Chester University, Pennsylvania State University, York College, Westminster College and others have participated, rais­ ing thousands of dollars for the American Cancer Society. “We are the first school from this area to participate in the IKON Three Point Attack and one of only a handful of women's teams who will be taking part nation­ "This is an important cause for me and for the team. I'm hoping, as a team, we can do something to help others and. promote cancer research." wide,” Haag added. “I hope we get a lot of^ people to support our J efforts." If you are interested in getting involved with the Lady Colonels Three Point Attack, call Coach Haag at (717) 408-4022 for a pledge form.* three pointers. We hope anyone who has been affect6d by cancer will get involved with this worthwhile project and make a pledge," Haag says. Couch Mien Hiiiig Karen Haag Women's Basketball Coach �WILKES UNIV ERSE TERROR in the Friendly Skies ** "The kidnappers fed us twice. In the first instance, we were given only a small package of broken peanuts, accompanied by the juice of a fruit I am certain came not from this world." 3 Bu By Anthony L. Liuzzo. Liuzzo, J.D., I.D.. Ph.D. Tf any well-meaning person should stumJLble onto this writing, please send help. For I have been taken hostage by malevo­ lent forces who reside within the very boundaries of our great country. This nefari­ ous group refers to itself only as "The Carrier." My kidnapping was in great part the result of my own negligence. I willingly and foolishly entered a territory controlled by their armies, an edifice aptly named "The Terminal." Once within the confines of this den of depravity, I was compelled to show proof of identity, and was provided with official documentation, written in a strange foreign language comprehensible only to those with great training in the terminology of law and engineering. All of my posses­ sions were forcibly removed from my per­ son, contemptuously flung upon a hideous conveyor system, and removed from my sight forever. I was left holding one small parcel, containing only the most intimate items for my personal hygiene. I was then forced to walk a great dis­ tance, to an area the enemy referred to as "The Gate." Upon nearing my destination, downtrodden and sullen, I was required to empty my pockets and pass through a device that sent dangerous rays throughout my body, while my belongings were sub­ jected to a similar mistreatment on another conveying device. I did manage to escape unscathed, although several of my fellow hostages did not fare as well. Inexplicably, the}’ set off the ringing of alarm bells, and, although I am uncertain as to their veracity, some related tales of strip searches and other unspeakable violations of privacy. Afte r th o u h t si After waiting many hours, huddled together on stiff benches, I and the other hostages were herded by uniformed guards into a huge box made of a cold metallic sub­ stance and strapped into cramped, hard seats. After an interminable delay, we were hurled into the air. I cannot speak with certainty as to what occurred next, for I entered into a dream­ like state. I can say that I was gravely mis­ treated, being kicked in the back on numer­ ous occasions, and having my knees and shins struck many times from the front. We were bombarded with an endless stream of propaganda, in the form of reading materi­ als, video cassettes, and audio broadcasts. In many cases, I witnessed my fellow hostages being forced to turn over monies to the uniformed attendants. On a couple of occasions, our bodies were subjected to extreme shaking and vibration, which our captors referred to as "The Turbulence." The kidnappers fed us twice. In the first instance, we were given only a small pack­ age of broken peanuts, accompanied by the juice of a fruit I am certain came not from this world. One hostage, whose name I never learned, asked in an Oliverian tone for additional quantities, which the uni­ formed guard simply ignored. Our second meal was provided in a box, and consisted of a meat derived from an animal of which I am unfamiliar. This was covered with an unidentifiable spread, accompanied by a stale bread-like product and brown lettuce. Black, muddied water was provided in ample quantities, with powdery substances to sweeten and whiten the mixture, so as to make it palatable. After many hours, we were finally released, but in a place far distant from our point of departure. I now long for my home and my family, but I have been warned that I must once again place myself under the control of the Carrier, if I am ever to return. I have vowed that I would accept death rather than voluntarily cede my liberty! Anthony L. Liuzzo, J.D., Ph.D. is associate professor of Business Administration and Economics at Wilkes University. He is currently in the market for n good pair of walking shoes. Provide Student Referrals You will receive referral forms from the Admissions Office. Fill these forms out with the names of high school students that you think would benefit from a Wilkes University education. The Admissions Office will send a letter to the student acknowledging that you have referred this person as a possible Wilkes University student. You may also indicate that you wish to bring this student on a visit or par­ ticipate in any of the other volunteer plans with this student. T A "["tikes V University is V looking for alumni and friends to participate in our Volunteer Enrollment Program. A Wilkes University volunteer has fond memories of Bucknell University Junior College, Wilkes College, or Wilkes University. As a volun­ teer, you will be asked to participate in out­ reach activities in your. region that promote the benefits of becoming a student at Wilkes University. w WILKES UNIVERSITY If you have any questions please call the Admissions Office (1-800-WILKESU ext. 4400), and tell the feceptionist that you have " Question regarding the v°l‘inteer Enrollment Program. Contact Accepted Students I i i You will receive a list or data file of no more than 10 students from your area to contact dur­ ing the course of the year. Your participation includes writing at least one letter and follow­ ing up with at least one phone call. You may also, if you wish, meet face-to-face with prospective students. Represent Wilkes College Fairs at You could be asked by the admissions office to cover a regional college fair near your home. These are information fairs that prospective high school students attend to get information on col­ leges. You would work the Wilkes University booth at the fair. Host Regional Admissions Events in Your Area You can volunteer to host a regional recruiting event. These events can be held at your home, place of work, or at a local hotel. The host/spon­ sor works with the Admissions Office on a suit­ able time and place for the event. Attend Recruiting events When a regional recruiting event is held in your area, you will be invited to attend. You will be asked to talk about Wilkes with prospec­ tive students and their families. To participate in the Volunteer Enrollment Program, complete this form and mail it to: Admissions Office, Wilkes University, P.O. Box 111, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18766. Last Name E-Mail First Name. Occupation Preferred Name. Please check the program in which vou have an interest: Title Student Referrals Street J Conta City State J College Fairs _ Zip Code Home Phone ( ). J Regional Event Host and Sponsor Work Phone ( ) J Event Representative Can we call you at work? QUJ N �NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE OIWERSE PAI D PERMIT NO. 355 WILKES-BARRE, PA Wilkes University Wilkes-Barre, PA 18766 ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED Jon T Lindgren Library If this magazine is addressed to a graduate who no longer resides at your home, please tear off the mailing label and mall It, with the corrected address, to the address above. � https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/7aa495edcb0928bb15b2ed7095cc3ca6.pdf ee449be028583cd71dd89bd338304f5d PDF Text Text Tur- Ipow, Loacfor AsJ I ^VTLKES-E 1° panic,• said\^H fat t Labi'tida. \^H I The Colonels\ I'en P'1 after Susqm ■ ' Beit's basket' Itwhumn?*"*.-. kqyt 1 Lu: NCAA bld U=>' ped to win y,. I'* an auteinatl F>r season alive lh.it sense Of I Ulree minutes of r 12-0 lead. 1 P fa”:u- after thaf l*«C0lrWl.,b..op L' r't, ' hmlxmnds. I 23 Wiui-;1n^ k '•rami thrl, -r'» "esatd Io e e |s Play. I^t-f. »h~- „■ W �from the editor Contents Examining Wilkes from the outside-in The strength of an alumni publication is in the variety of WILKES UNIVERSE Volume 3 ❖ Number I Editor Vaughn A. Shinkus ’91 Director of University Relations Craig (Mark) Davis Associate Editors Stephanie Geyer Krista Gromalski '91 Editorial Assistants Jessica Bierbower '97 Regina Frappolli '97 Karen (ones Jean Pall Sports Editor Tom McGuire '85 Executive Director of Alumni and Development Sandra Beynon M'85 Design Projects by Design Corporation Administration Christopher N. Breiseth, Ph.D. President J. Michael Lennon, Ph.D. Vice President for Academic Affairs Paul A. O'Hop Vice President for Business Affairs and Auxiliary Enterprises Wfc Urtiv^e is published three times a year by Wilkes University's University Relations Office and distributed free to alumni and friends of the University. Comments, suggestions, and story ideas are welcomed. Submit all correspondence to: Vaughn Shinkus, Publications Manager, Wilkes University, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18766. Or call 1-800WILKES U. extension 4779 Fax. 1717) 831-4973. Email- alumnipub@wilkesl.wilkes.edu ViThatTthVphiSphy we've adopted at Wilkes, and this edi­ tion of Wilkes Universe perhaps best reflects its practice. Over the past two years, we've established a growing network of COr. respondents who bring an external perspective in communicat­ ing stories about the Wilkes community For coverage of Wilkes's stellar basketball season, for exam­ ple. we looked to two Wilkes-Barre area journalists who knew the subject first-hand. Free-lance sports writer Steve Bennett and photographer Warren Ruda had followed the Colonels all the way to the Elite Eight championships last season, and were with them every' step of the way this year as they made a run for the MAC and NCAA championships. The result is a story which documents in words and pictures each step in the evolu­ tion of a team which sparked excitement on the Wilkes campus and beyond. Geography played a role in our selection of another corre­ spondent. Newly relocated to the greater Philadelphia area, former Wilkes communications assistant Christine Liberaski was in the perfect location to interview Norristown dentist Dr. Thomas Check on his humanitarian efforts providing care to the underprivileged children of Jamaica. Her touching profile of Check captures the compassion and humility of this extraordi­ nary alumnus. Indeed, sometimes the best writers are just across campus. Melanie O'Donnell '93, an assistant dean of Admissions, liter­ ally walked into her assignment. O'Donnell had stopped by the University Relations office just as we we’re brainstorming for a writer to report on Wilkes's faculty writers. A published author in her own rite, O'Donnell was the perfect person for the job. She brings a writer’s perspective to a report on the varied works of several Wilkes professors. Wilkes alumnus lames Clark '93 has covered small-town poli­ tics, big-time rock and roll and even professional boxing. So we knew he d be up for the rather elusive task of examining Wilkes s relationship with the river it borders. An ardent runner, Clark spent much of his college years trotting atop the Susquehanna's protective dikes. His article reflects Wilkes's love-hate relationship with the muddy tributary. We hope you 11 appreciate the external viewpoint each of these correspondents has brought to this publication. Their < is t e ultimate validation of the many interesting people and places which make up the Wilkes Universe. Sincerely, U# Vaughn A. Shinkus Profiles Page 6 A Basketball Season to Remember Capturing the MAC championship and advancing to the NCAA playoffs, the men's basketball Colonels renewed passion for basketball within the Wilkes Community. Page 12 Love Has No Boundaries Each year Dr. Thomas Check '48 travels to Jamaica to provide denial care to Jamaican chil­ dren who otherwise wouldn't receive it. It is a labor of love Page 16 Wilkes and the River The history and future of Wilkes University are inexorably tied to the river it borders. The Susquehanna is a nearby source for both research and recreation. Page 19 The Faculty Writers at Wilkes University The Wilkes faculty includes several published writers whose work encompasses a variety of genres, scholarly, trade nonfiction, and creative writing. Departments Page 2 Presidential Perspective — Help Wilkes maintain its crucial role in the community Page 3 Feedback — Letters to the editor and commentary Page 4 On Campus — News briefs-. New broadcasting center named in honor of TV pioneer Page 22 Homecoming — Alumni news: Make plans for Homecoming 1996 Page 24 Afterthoughts — Dr. Liuzzo confesses his compulsion w ON THE COVER: The 1995-96 Wilkes University men's bas­ ketball players take with them a season of memories. The squad captured the school’s first ever MAC title for men's basketball. Cover by Earl and Sedor Pfiotograpfiy inset photo by Warren Ruda �Wilkes Universe FEEDBACK Presidential Perspective strengthens the community Investment in Wilkes legiate paraphernalia together and We have had a case of basketbail fever at Wilkes. Our men's team took us on a long and wonderful ride, and their 28-2 record—the best winning percentage in Division III in the nation-—contains memorable moments that will last for years to come. The impact on campus spirit and on the Wyoming Valley was extra­ ordinary. When seven Martz buses rolled down 1-81 to the Elite Eight game in the NCAA Tournament for Division 111. there were supporters in cars all along the way who honked in solidarity'. One thousand Wilkes fans attended the game with Franklin & Marshall in Lancaster. The great accomplishment of Coach lerry Rickrode and his team comes amidst a good deal of discussion in the area about the desirability of mar­ keting Wilkes-Barre as a college town. With both Wilkes and Kings. WilkesBarre has the obvious ingredients. The local business and government communities are waking to the fact that no greater asset can exist for a small to medium-size city than a col­ lege or two. Our Wyoming Valley has five It has been proposed that a joint Wilkes-King's bookstore be estab­ lished in the area of Public Square so that students from both campuses could purchase books and other col- Wfiat do you think? F.-JSc-; ;-r. al! issues addressed lit Wilkes Urii.eree:: -xeteained All letters must be ■ lined and cl be subject Io editing. Mail. Publications Manager 'Mlies University PO Box 111 PA 18766 Far-. (717)831-4973 e-mail alurrmipul/'i wilkesl wilkes.edu gather in a proposed coffee house Internet cafe. There are many chal­ lenges to overcome before this can happen, indeed, citizens outs.de of the colleges must recognize that the future of this area rests in no small parton the health and success of the educational institutions. The recipro­ cal is also true. We are about to begin a SI60 mil­ lion levee raising project along the Susquehanna through the WilkesBarre area, with the possibility of building an inflatable dam that will create a lake/waterfront environment right in front of the Wilkes campus. The additional flood control protec­ tion is particularly welcome after the flood threat this winter that caused all of Wilkes-Barre to evacuate. It appears that the proposed Civic Arena also will be built. The decision of Harris Electric (the former RCA facility in Mountaintop which located here because of Wilkes’s pledge to establish graduate courses in certain of the sciences! to expand their oper­ ation with an investment of more than S250 million is a sign of crucial economic development activity. In all of these activities, Wilkes people are deeply involved. In several, the University itself is a crucial player. Since the first years of Bucknell University lurnor College, this institu­ tion has responded to the needs of the region in ways quite unusual for an independent college or university In return, the region has been unusu­ ally and generously supportive of Wilkes. The leadership of the Board of Trustees over the years has come from the local community. While that leadership continues, is has been enhanced by both additional trustees from other parts of the Northeast and Middle Atlantic regions of the country and by increasing numbers of alumni both local and from outside the region. Christopher N. Breisetft In coming months, Trustees and oth­ ers in the growing Wilkes community will be meeting together in small gatherings to talk about a major capi­ tal campaign which will help position the University for the next century. The tentative goal is S35 million, $20 million of which would enhance the endowment, $10 million to support annual operations, and S5 million for bricks and mortar projects. 1 will have much to say about the campaign in future editions, in the meantime, know that your alma mater continues to provide students with an outstanding educational experience in a unique environment where they can learn and acquire transferable skills by becoming involved in activi­ ties which strengthen the community. At the same time, Wilkes must look increasingly to the beneficiaries of its education, our alumni, to provide the financial support to allow Wilkes to achieve its potential as an outstand­ ing small comprehensive university with a national reputation for excel­ lence in teaching, learning and applied research. As the Capital cam paign progresses, I will be inviting each of you to invest in Wilkes University for future students w|10 Al prepare themselves for lives of Prc fessional success and service to others. Next recruiting stop: Milan, Italy? Editor, 1 read with considerable interest the article, "Wilkes Looks Globally for Future Students.” in Wife Universe (Vol. 2 No.l), which I received at my home in Milan sever­ al months ago. I am pleased that Wilkes is finally actively looking out­ side of the United States in its search for a varied and enriching student body. I have been aware for quite a few years that many American Universities and colleges look glob­ ally to "bolster enrollment and enhance cultural learning." An increasing number of American schools are represented at the annual "Study In America" fair in Milan, which takes place in the fall. In fact. 1 remember giving Dr. Breiseth information on the fair some years ago with the aim of encouraging Wilkes to follow a simi­ lar path. From your article it appears that Wilkes is currently recruiting in the Middle East, South East Asia, and Puerto Rico. Should you also con­ sider looking into Italy, I would be happy to be of help. I am a 1967 Wilkes graduate, and the daughter of Dr. J.G. Moravec, who was chairman of the Sociology department in the 60s and 70s. So, as you can see, 1 have ample reason to feel strong ties to Wilkes. Moreover, I am quite familiar with the Italian educational system. 1 am currently an English language lec­ turer in the Department of Foreign Language at the State University of Milan. I also teach at I.U.L.M. (Istituto Universitario di Lingue Moderne), a small private university, specialized in modern languages. —Alexandra Moravec Ocampo '67 Second presidential terms uncommon becomes disillusioned with the President Bill Clinton's re-elec­ president, doubts his ability, and tion team shouldn't start planning votes him out of office. his second term just yet. especially Finally, an incumbent president, in light of the recent Whitewater running on his record, is a more verdict. But history also suggests inviting target for nega­ that it's uncommon for Opinion tive ads when contrasted modern presidents to win with a presidential candi­ re-election—just ask date with no public poli­ Gerald Ford, Jimmy cy accomplishments or Carter or George Bush. "track record." As the art Few 20th century presi­ of negative campaigning dents were elected to two has become more or more consecutive sophisticated, any terms in their own right. incumbent president Woodrow Wilson (D), Dr T/iomas-BaWiiw runs the risk of being FDR (D), Eisenhower (R). skewered for actions taken during Nixon (R), and Reagan (R). Several his first term. vice presidents, however, served If Clinton becomes the fifth pres­ nearly two full terms as they filled ident in the 20th century to be out the unexpired terms of their elected in his own right to consec­ presidents. utive terms, three factors will influ­ This suggests that it has become ence his second term success: his more difficult for presidents to win margin of victory, which party con­ reelection to a second term. There trols one or both houses of are many explanations offered as Congress, and the condition of the to why most "modern" presidents economy. have failed in their attempts to retain the office. With the exception of FDR. presi­ dents entering a second term For one, the American electorate experience their greatest domestic holds unreasonable expectations accomplishments during the first for the president. When candidates year to 18 months. The weight of run in a presidential election, they make claims and promises to all lame-duck status limits a presi­ dent’s credibility with each succes­ types of constituencies. Once elect­ ed, it's obvious that the president sive month into the second term. In foreign affairs, however, they cannot possibly fulfill all of his commitments. Thus he alienates have greater latitude Without the burden of standing for re-election important constituencies, generat­ ing greater cynicism about politi­ and with the constitutional author­ cians. The newly alienated voters ity' inherent in the office, a lame­ duck president can advance his are much less likely to support the president in his reelection bid. international ‘Vision," as Nixon did in traveling to China. Secondly. America's political and economic systems have become so Regardless of Clinton s numbers in today's polls, obtaining a sec­ complex that they are impossible ond term or running an effective for any one person to manage. second term are elusive goals for Thus when a president shows dur­ modern presidents. ing a first term his inability to BuMino is chairperson of the Political break the gridlock with Congress or Science department at Wilkes. control inflation, the voting public 3 �Wilkes Universe ON CAMPUS World Wide Wed page popularity steady Now in its second year as a site on the World Wide Web. the Wilkes University Home Page continues to be a popular destination for web surfers. The home page includes informa­ tion about admissions require­ ments. departmental program ano course descriptions, campus photos and history and access to the University' library'. More than 80,000 computer users have accessed the site since it was announced to the world on March 7. 1995. Accesses per month increased steadily through January. 1996, with a slight decline in the first quarter of 1996. At the height of traffic in January', the site was accessed by 4,700 unique computers, a figure adjusted to eliminate machines which contin­ ually reconnect to the site. According to Dr. John Koch, Webmaster and professor of Math and Computer Science, the growth in the number of hits, or web page visits, has increased as the page contents have expanded. In the past year, several academic departments, administrative offices and student organizations have linked pages to the Wilkes Home Page. In addition, Stark gets face lift to accommodate Pharmacy Wilkes University ■4XA/7 "HomePage EE®® O ajsjjEnn The Wilkes University home page is located at fittpJ/uw.willjes.edu on the World Wide Web. students and faculty members have added personal pages which repre­ sent their own studies and interests. "As the amount of information we put up there increases, the number of people connecting looking for unique information about Wilkes also will increase," says Koch. In January. Koch redesigned the page, changing the background and organizing the hyperlinks into a sec­ tioned table. The site has been rated three stars out of a possible four by the Magellan Internet Directory, a comprehensive listing of nearly two million sites and 40,000 reviews. "Eventually we hope to make the home page even more dynamic," says Koch. Center (SLC) is taking on a new look under the latest phase of the University's campus construction p|ai in. This phase of the plan, which began in January, is nearing completion it includes 40,000 square feet of renova­ tions encompassing the addition of laboratory, classroom and office facilj ties for the University's School of Pharmacy. The School of Pharmacy will occupy the first and third floors of SLC. A space on the first floor will be con­ verted into a pharmacy information center and computer lab, a model pharmacy and staff office space. The new third floor will include an anato­ my and physiology laboratory, five research labs, conference rooms, staff office space and accessory rooms. Named in honor of the late Admiral Harold R. Stark. Stark Learning Center was opened in 1958 and was expand­ ed in 1973. In 1991, major renovations were completed on its laboratory space. The Center includes approxi­ mately 210,000 square feet of space with 160,000 square feet in use as modern classrooms, laboratories, stu­ dios and offices. Pharmacy School gains pre-candidate status 7 ’.■= .'. l i es L.mversir. School of Pharmacy is one step closer to accredi- --• ~..rencsr- Council on Pharmaceutical Education (ACPE) ----- ... ecent.v ■•as granted pre-candidate status after a sight visit re; e;v by the National Pharmaceutical Board. The School is now : - '7 t-e rmai steps toward full accreditation, which can only be ' tr-e nrst class graduates in the year 2000 .-.i rcur-year School cf Pharmacy program includes three years of tra= T'TTTT-T Of Ciinicai derkshiP at Pharmacies and "T,rcomPet|tiveprogram. 80 pre-pharmacy students are New TV studio dedicated In honor of local television pioneer Wilkes University's Stark Learning Qi.' Ji:. . ■__ ’ Looking over the SLC renovation plans ate Robert Saffian. Wilkes staff archil1^' Mife Hardik, job coordinator. PovJ Dr lames Merryman, associate professor of Sociology/Anthropology, holds class at VIPS day. Wilkes first VIPS day is a success Wilkes welcomed more than 100 VIPS to campus last semester, but they weren't your average group of dignitaries. Held in February, Very Important Prospective (V I.P.) Student Day was designed to give potential Wilkes stu­ dents a chance to experience University life first-hand. The high school seniors who attended were offered the opportunity to tour cam­ pus, ask questions and attend classes taught by Wilkes faculty. The VIP students and their parents chose from a schedule of 40 classes such as "Writing and the Information Highway," "Creating Silicon Chips," "The Facts After 50," "Who’s Reading Your Email" and "Design of the Van Halen Concert Stage." Afterward, lunch was served in the Marts Center, where the students attended a Student Life Fair which provided insight on residence life, cooperative education, financial aid, and student activities such as Student Government, Programming Board, and Commuter Council. The VIP Student Day was one seg­ ment of a campus-wide program to enhance the University’s recruiting effort. The integrated approach includes a revised communications plan, a personalized calling system, computer admissions tracking and staff customer service training. Tom Shelburne epitomized the credo "think global, act local." so it's appropriate that a facility which prepares students to interact with the global community now bears his name, say his friends. In April, Wilkes dedicated its newly constructed television studio in memory of the local television pioneer and former owner of WNEP-TV, Channel 16. The Thomas P. Shelburne Telecommunications Center is a 13-room, 5,500 square-foot facility which provides an opportunity for students to gain hands-on televi­ sion experience. "Tom would be especially pleased with it, first of all because he was a teacher," said Tom Bigler '93, professor of Communications, who served as master of cere­ monies at the dedication. "What an appropriate tribute," added Shelburne's longtime friend Wallace Stettler '90. "It's a tangi­ ble reminder of Tom's commitment to the community." Shelburne co-founded radio station WILK and later was chairman and president of NEP Communications. Prior to his death last year, he was a strong advocate for regionalism and promoting the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton area as one region. Dr. Wallace Stettler '90 reflects on the life of his friend, Thomas P. Shelburne. "He did more than anyone to pull this region together culturally and economically and help us real­ ize the strength and growth poten­ tial of the Pocono Northeast,' said Wilkes President Christopher Breiseth. Transformed from a former stor­ age area in the basement of Stark Learning Center, the Thomas P. Shelburne Telecommunications Center features two full-sized pro­ duction studios, three editing booths, various classroom, offices and engineering control booths. The project was financed through the generosity' of the Shelburne family and several close friends. Wilkes students produce a daily news program and coordinate two weekly television shows in the stu­ dio. WOW!, an educational show for children, is produced weekly in conjunction with local station, WBRE-TV. A second program. "Colonels Corner, is a sports talk show which airs on local cable TV systems "In this studio, generations of future Wilkes students will be bet­ d ter prepared for a 21st century media age said Breiseth This is a very special day for the University" I Pmsidi’iil BreiseUi and Mrs. Catherine Sfii’lbunie unveil« plaque Ifctinq bene­ factors u’fio helped fund the Center. Builders, Inc. 4 5 �PROFILE Wilkes Universe Men’s Basketball Even before they began Dan? Clancy reaches for the basket in a celebrated post-season match up against Cabrini College. Colonels Make History on the Court By Steve Bennett practicing for the 1995-96 basketball season, the Wilkes University Colonels had a big, red bulls-eye slapped right in the middle of their collective back. The national spotlight was shin­ ing on ferry Rickrode's mens' bas­ ketball team when it was announced that they had been cho­ sen as the preseason number one Division III basketball team by Sports Illustrated and Street and Smith's college basketball magazines. The Columbus Multi-Media Poll had listed Wilkes as their number one team, while Dick Vitale ranked them third. Then, The Sporting News slid lason Turner was the the Colonels into the fifth slot and Colonels' quiet leader and unstoppable in the paint. selected two Wilkes seniors— center Jason Turner and forward Matt LaBuda—as second team preseason All-Americans. And if that wasn't enough to make Wilkes a marked team this best 25-5, captured the school's year, LaBuda and fellow senior first ever Freedom League title, and guard Chris Parker had their pic­ finished second overall in the tures in major publications, LaBuda Middle Atlantic Conference. The in Sports Illustrated and Parker in first team in school history to Street and Smith's. receive a bid to the Division III All this pres­ NCAA Tournament, sure and the they had advanced team hadn't all the way to the even begun to Elite Eight of the practice. 1995 tournament But it wasn't before losing an as if the 11-point halftime Colonels lead to be elimi­ weren't deserv­ nated by Trinity ing of the acco­ College. lades. After all, So with the expe­ Wilkes was rience of playing in returning all the NCAA tourna­ five starters ment, and the from a 1994-95 determination and Mall LaBuda leas tfic Colonels' main man team that fin­ desire to be able fvliind the three-point arc and one of the fvsl ished a school to take it one step free-throw shooters in the country. further this season, the Colonels were on a mission: To make this season even better than last year. That they did. FOCUS, FOCUS, FOCUS Playing with a whole lot of heart and not relying solely on talent. Wilkes had their best season in school history, a 28-2, in this, the year Wilkes basketball celebrated its 50th anniversary'. It surely wasn't as easy as every­ one watching expected it to be. The fans and the media seemed to expect every' game to be an easy win, disapproving when the margin of victory' was narrower than pre­ dicted and placing more pressure on a team that actually didn't need any more. But as all good teams do, the Colonels understood that basket­ 7 �PROFILE -This team had a tremendous amount of pressure on it from the begin­ ning. We knew what the expectations were, but we just had to go our game." Dave Macedo *95 Colonels Guard 8 Wilkes Universe ball games are won on the court not in a magazine, a newspaper, or on television. With that in mind, Coach Rickrode began to prepare his troops for what turned out to be a wild ride through an incredibly exciting basketball season. "We tried to stay focused and pre­ pare for each team one game at a time," says Rickrode. “I tried not to think about the rankings. Despite early expectations, Rickrode did manage to keep his players on course. All year long, the Colonels played as a team— unselfish, yet business-like. At times, they executed to perfection. "This team had a tremendous amount of pressure on it," says Colonels guard Dave Macedo. "We knew it was on us from the begin­ ning. We knew what the expecta­ tions were, but we just had to go out and play our game." "We didn't worry about anyone's expectations," adds Turner. "Once you start living up to others' expec­ tations, you take away from the task at hand. We knew where we wanted to go and what we had to do to get there." The team was led by the heralded "big four," a quartet made up of seniors Macedo, Rickrode's under­ rated first recruit; Parker, the team's gutsy player who wasn't afraid to shoot the ball; Turner, the Colonels quiet leader and main man in the paint; and LaBuda, a dead-eye shot from behind the three-point arc and one of the best free throw shooters in the country. The season began on Friday, November 17 against Washington College of Maryland in the first round of the Widener University Tournament. The Colonels captured he first round game and eventually won what would be the first of two tournament championships. The second came during the Lehman College (Bronx, New York) Tourney culminating a three-game stretch Rickrode had planned to prepare the team for the long haul, a poten­ tial run in the NCAA tournament The Colonels breezed through th<le first ten games of their schedule before taking time off for the Christmas holiday. The players returned on New Year's night for a workout that was the first of what would be many practices as 1996 was just beginning. DISCOVERING MORTALITY For Wilkes, the first real test of the season came in the finals of their own Holiday Inn/Wilkes University Colonel Classic tourna­ ment. The Colonels advanced to the finals with a convincing win over Marywood College. Then they received what was believed to be Chris Parker iras lhe team's gutsy player. On two occasions he connected on game­ winning shots for lhe Colonels. much-needed wake-up call against St. John Fisher of Rochester, New York. Wilkes dropped its first game of the year in a matchup of teams that were both nationally ranked and top seeded in their respective regions. The Colonels lost 97-91, but the outcome may have been for the best. Finally they had some­ thing to build on as the sense of invincibility left the team. ' That loss did us some good,” says Rickrode. "Before that they thought they could just walk out on the court and teams were going to lie down." "We were able to feed off that loss to St. John Fisher," adds Parker. "We thought we could just go out and beat teams, but that loss showed us we couldn't just do that." What followed was a streak never before seen at Wilkes, as the Colonels ran through the Middle Atlantic Conference undefeated. There were some close games and a few scares, but each night there seemed to be a new hero. One night it was Macedo or Parker, the next LaBuda or Turner would lead the team to victory. But what made this team special was the role players. There was backup center Tim Burlew, junior forward Dave Clancy and 5-foot-9 inch backup point guard Jay Williams, who in one playoff game carried the Colonels on his back. These players emerged as forces to be reckoned with and made this group truly a team. Following a victory' over Lebanon Valley, the team that beat Wilkes in last year's MAC Finals, the Colonels advanced to the second round where they escaped with a two-point victory over Drew. The Rangers had a chance to win the game at the buzzer, but a threepoint shot attempt rimmed out and the Colonel season was still alive. The Colonels went on to defeat Susquehanna to capture the school's first ever MAC crown. “I think we spoiled some peo­ ple with all the 20-win sea­ sons," says Rickrode. “But for this team to go 18-0 in the MAC is quite an accomplishment. And. h. it wasn't easy.” Now the fun was \ supposed to start. The ® \ Colonels had reached Hjk1 the point in the sea­ son they had waited over a year to get to. It was finally time to exorcise the demons from last year, time to make a run toward the Final Four. In the opening round of the NCAA playoffs. lay Williams 9 �Wilkes Universe PROFILE CaMm. Gme Was ‘One for t^e It was the second round of the NCAA Division II! tournament and the Colonel basketball season seemed to be coming to an abrupt end. Then lay Williams took control. With his third straight three-point field goal of the final minute. Williams turned up the volume at the Marts Center to a deafening pitch, it shook the building that night. And the music produced by 2,400 charged-up fans may play in the heads of the Wilkes Colonels forever. "When lay hit some of those threes and the crowd roared." Wilkes forward Dave Clancy said after Wilkes beat Cabrini, 96-91 in overtime. "I said, 'This is what the NCAA tournament is supposed to be about. This is what 1 see on TV when I watch Sports Center. " The NCAA second-round victory was the final encore for the Colonels at home. And the largest crowd of the season swooned over the area's most incredible basket­ ball comeback. The players noticed. "That was the loudest I've ever heard it here." Clancy' said. "That was probably the best atmosphere I've ever played in." "When lay hit the one three and the crowd just exploded, your heart is up in your mouth,' Wilkes coach Jerry' Rickrode said. "You don't get that feeling very often." Then again, performances like that are rare. The Colonels trailed 75-64 with 3.-30 left in regulation and were down 78-70 with 45 seconds left in a season that looked lost. Chasing an outstanding Cabrini team with a deep blend of athletic talent, Wilkes finally caught up when Williams stroked his fourth straight threepointer with six seconds left. The 10 teams went into overtime tied at 82. "It was non-stop for 40 minutes, Clancy said. "It takes a lot to get back in a game like that. When you’re down and fighting to get By Paul Sokoloski Times Leader Sports Writer back, people don’t realize that takes a lot of energy' to get to that point. My legs started to feel a little bit tired. "Jay didn't look like he was tired at all," Clancy continued. "He must have had the adrenaline flowing." When Williams drilled his third straight try. bringing Wilkes within a 80-79 with 16 seconds left in regula­ tion, an ear-piercing gasp of hope flooded the Marts Center. "I couldn’t communicate with the guys during the game,” Rickrode said. It only grew louder when Williams made the biggest shot of his life, the three that saved the season with six seconds left. "Maybe on the street in front of my home, but never in a game," Williams said, when asked if he'd ever hit a shot so dramatic. And when Chris Parker sank the game's final four points to seal vic­ tory from the foul line, the delirious fans had the memory of a lifetime. "Chris Parker, when he made that last shot on the foul line, he was crying. I was told," Rickrode said. "He was so overcome with joy. The emotion is something you’re going to remember for a long time The team just has a no-quit atti­ tude." And for once, a gym full of cheers that may never stop. "The crowd," Clancy said, "was great." Excerpted with permission from The Times Leader March 14 edition. Paul Sokoloski is sports writer. Wilkes faced Allentown College After coming out a little sluggish the Colonels pulled away and advanced to the second round, where mighty Cabrini College awaited. And in what was the great­ est comeback in Wilkes basketball history, the Colonels showed that the game is truly never over until the final buzzer sounds (See sidebar, left). Trailing by 14 points with 1:35 ]ef[ in the game, little lay Williams took over. The tiny guard scored 14 straight points, including four con­ secutive three-pointers to tie and force a game nobody thought Wilkes could win into overtime. Once in the extra session, Williams didn’t stop. He scored six more points to lift Wilkes to a 96-91 win and send them to Lancaster, Pa. for the regional semifinals. "That game was a game that peo­ ple will remember for a lifetime," said Rickrode. "It was just incredi­ ble.” For his efforts against Cabrini, Williams was featured on a seg­ ment of ESPN’s Sports Center. "Jay Williams is the best point guard in the conference who doesn't start," says Rickrode. "Next year we’ll be doing so much more to get him involved." "1 just tried to step up and make the big shots when we needed them,” says Williams. ”1 felt it was just my time. Other times my job is to just distribute the basketball and had the same record as the Colonels and lost to a much weaker opponent, but still found a way to get the region's top seed. Wilkes went toe-to-toe with the mighty Diplomats for 12 minutes on F&M's home floor. Eventually though, Franklin and Marshall pulled ahead and came away with the victory and the right to move on to the Final Four. Though disappointed by what some may perceive as failure, the 1995-96 Wilkes University Colonels accomplished a season that will go down in basketball history at Wilkes University, and probably in the Wyoming Valley. There may never again be a team this good. The Colonels played with some of the best teams in the country, proving they could com­ pete on a national level. They achieved an 18-game winning play good defense." After Cabrini, it was on to face Buffalo State for a right to advance to the Elite Eight. After disposing of the Bengals, there was a matchup with top ranked Franklin and Marshall for the right to go to the Final Four. The F&M Diplomats 32 Chris Parker cuts down the net as a memento of the Colonel MAC Championship victory. Head Condi terry Rickrode. flanked by assistant coaches John Dunne and Matt McCaffrey. streak, earned league and confer­ ence titles, and energized the Wilkes Community along the way. Perhaps someday the players will realize just how good they were. But if anyone knows already, it’s their coach. "1 told the kids that they've had a hell of a career,” says Rickrode. "They shouldn't let the fact that they didn’t make it to the Final Four have an effect on what they have done. This group won 89 games in four years.” Even as the seniors move on, their coach is preparing for next season. And rest assured, if there's a film to be watched or a recruit to be seen, Rickrode will be there. By next year, he'll be ready to reload, instead of rebuild. Because basketball at Wilkes University has changed. And the whole country is watching. Steve Bennett covered the Colonels sea­ son from start to finish as a sports corre­ spondent for The Citizens' Voice news­ paper, Wilkes-Barre. 11 �PROFILE Wilkes Universe A Lifetime of Service “Love Has No Boundaries" the boundaries of his country and volunteered his dentistry skills to care for Jamaican orphans. He does it because he can. hometown values 1 I 0 I I Dr. CM poses with his dental assistant, Sally Keenan, and an enthusiastic group of patients in front of the lamaican dental clinic. By Christine Liheraski 12 In many lives, there’s a defining moment that can shape a person's spirit and direct the way his or her days are lived. For Dr. Thomas Check '50, that moment came in 1956 while visiting family in Czechoslovakia. Check, now a dentist practicing in West Norristown, Pa.. remem­ bers the day as if it were yesterday. I asked the priest of a small, poor village town what I could send him once I returned to the States, says Check, who attended Bucknell University Junior College from 1946 to 1948. "But the priest knew my couple bucks wouldn't change the village's situation and asked for nothing." The priest said the most important thing 1 could do was to always remember "Laska nema chranicov." Those three words in English mean "Love has no boundaries," and they changed Check’s life. Every year for the past 34 years, Check has travelled outside Check always knew that somehow, someway, he wanted to help others. Once he became a dentist, he decid­ ed he wanted to take care of the dental needs of individuals who had no outlet for care. "1 grew up in Wilkes-Barre and was educated at Sacred Heart, Coughlin and then at Wilkes," says Check. 68. "Values were always emphasized, no matter what school I was attending." Check studied biology at Bucknell University Junior College, which became Wilkes College during his second year. Dr. Charles Reif, along with Dr. Eugene Farley, made lasting impressions on Check's life. "Charles Reif was very instrumen­ tal as an example in my life. He had values, discipline and academic demands that had to be met," says Check. "And maybe most important­ ly, no matter how tough he seemed to be, he had a great sense of humor." Check and Reif met again at Wilkes University's 1996 January Commencement when Check received an honorary doctor of sci- Chech examines a young patient as part of the lamaican incre­ mental care program. ence degree from the University in recognition for his humanitarian efforts. "I didn’t know that Thomas Check was involved with volunteering in Jamaica until graduation," says Reif, professor emeritus of Biology. "It surprised me at first, but then I thought, he and all his classmates back then were pretty serious youngsters and would do well.” Dr. Joseph Marino ‘50, now an osteopathic doctor in Philadelphia, was one of Check’s classmates at BUJC. The two Biology majors stayed in touch and have remained best of friends. They’re so close, in fact, that Check is godfather to Marino’s 39-year-old son Michael. "Tom has always impressed me as being an optimistic person who is extremely positive about the future.” says Marino. "There is no doubt in my mind that he entered the dental profession thinking he could some­ how help people." e'®We didn't know what to expect our first year... People would ask us if would ever come back and we’d answer ‘let's leave it to the Lord’s hand.’ By doing that we managed to get back to Jamaica every year.Dr. Thomas Check ‘50 A MISSION TO HELP OTHERS Elizabeth Cliccli, Sally Keenan and Sr. Maria Garrelti. superintendent of Alpha Orphanage. After leaving Wilkes, Check attend­ ed Temple University for his dental degree and the University of Pennsylvania for post-graduate work in pediatric and oral surgery. In the 13 �PROFILE early 1960s, after establishing a suc­ cessful practice, getting married and starting a family. Check decided it was time to help others. His chance came in the form of a newsletter from the Catholic Medical Mission Board. The board was looking for a den­ tist to set up an incremental dental care program at Alpha Orphanage in lamaica. Check jumped at the chance and helped research, design and implement a program that annually measures decayed, missing and filled teeth and then evaluates and manages the increment of change. The program saves teeth instead of extracting them. In the spring of 1962, Check and his wife, Elizabeth, and their three children made their first trip to the country that has one dentist to every' 20,000 people. In the U.S. there is about one dentist for every 1.500 people. "We didn't know what to expect our first year and we were all a little scared," remembers Check. "People would ask us if we would ever come back and we'd give them our stock answer, 'let's leave it in the Lord's hand.' By doing that we managed to get back to Jamaica every year." Chech with Sr. Susan Fragier R.S.M., superintendent of St. John Bosca children's home. Wilkes Universe MORE THAN DENTAL CARE Through the decades, Check has cared for thousands of children at the Alpha Orphanage in the city of Kingston, and St. John Bosco Orphanage in the country setting of Mandeville, which established a dental program about 10 years ago. He says the orphan's dental prob­ lems are no different than those of children he treats in America. The big difference between the children, however, is that most of his Jamaican patients have been abused, abandoned or orphaned. Check recalls some very' sad, but inspiring stories about the children, but the one of an eight-year-old boy named Newton stands out most in his mind. The child suffered abuse from his father that caused his hands to be deformed and webbed The father had lit them on fire as a form of punishment. "But the most incredible thing about the story was what Newton said when 1 asked him how he felt about his father," says Check. "The boy said, 'I forgive him." Check believes it was the love and kindness the boy experienced at St. John Bosco that helped him for- give his father. All the children, says Check, are very grateful to the peo­ ple who run the orphanages, and to the volunteers who pay attention to their needs. "1 didn't realize until a few years ago how important it is to these children that volunteers come back every year," reflects Check. "They all come from dysfunctional families, so to feel the continuity of care by the same people has an enormous impact on them." THE HUB OF THE WHEEL When Check first started his work in Jamaica he spent about a month every year caring for the orphans. Now because of more volunteers, each dentist is only needed for two weeks. Volunteers from around the world, including England, Canada and the United States, now donate their time and skills. The program has grown from being housed in a farm shed at Alpha Orphanage to having two year-round clinics. In addition, the Jamaican government now pays for three full-time dental auxiliaries. "It's a very inspiring thing that Tom is doing down there," says Marino, Citation for Dr. Thomas M. Check Bestowed by Dr. Christopher Breiseth upon awarding of hon­ orary doctorate at Winter Commencement, January 23: Thomas M Check, a native of WilkesBarre, Pennsylvania, you have combined your rich family and religious heritage and your professional expertise to serve humankind, not just in Norristown, your long time home, but in far away Jamaica. In 1962, you began a dental clinic in a refurbished farm shed in Kingston, Jamaica for the children of the Alpha Orphanage. You began by serving 600 children and youth, many of whom would have lost most of their teeth by the time they were in their twenties had they not received the dental care you proceed­ ed to organize for them. While you have mobilized other dentists and raised who is also Check's patient. "As a doctor myself, 1 don't know if 1 could do it. The customs are different, the medical malpractice laws are differ­ ent—Tom really goes out on a limb to help the program succeed." The ever-modest Check takes little credit for the growth of the dental programs in Jamaica. "What we're doing isn't a big deal. My wife and I just happen to be the hub of the wheel," explains Check. "But there are a lot of spokes that keep the wheel going." This humble manner is one of the reasons Diane Jellen, Check's patient, nominated the dentist to receive an honorary degree from Wilkes. In her letter of recommendation, lellen described Check as a person who helped me rethink my values regarding time, ambitions, self indulgence and the value of helping others." lellen is especially proud that her sons, Paul '92, and Jonathan '95, have the same educa- money from your own patients and friends to build this initial modest clinic into a full incremental dental care pro­ gram patterned after the World Health Organization's guidelines, you also con­ tinue to go each year to Kingston with your devoted wife and helpmate. Betty. to serve the children of the Alpha Boys' school and St. John Bosco School. Like the other dentists you have persuaded to provide this care, you pay for your own airfare and receive no remuneration except room and board. You exemplify that private generosity for the public good that is so much part of the American character and which you cited in an early article on Project Alpha in quoting Dr. Arnaud C. Marts, one of the founding fathers of Wilkes University. He said that this generosity "is the inevitable flowering of the very tional foundation as Check. "It is Wilkes alumni like (Check) who make a positive difference in positive ways," wrote Jellen. "It is Wilkes alumni like these that my sons, also Wilkes alumni, would do well to model." best moral, spiritual and cultural aspira­ tion, insights, experiences and inspira­ tions, over 19 centuries, of all the various racial strains that have merged in the creation of Western Man." You have drawn from the rich tradition of your Slovak heritage, being a Sokol of Assembly 59 and a member of the Slovak Heritage Society of Northeastern Pennsylvania. You have been a devoted son, husband, father to your three adopt­ ed children. Tfiontas C., Mary Rose and David and now also a grandfather. Your alma mater is proud to recognize your life to devoted service. By the power vested in me by the Board of Trustees and by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. I hereby confer upon you, Thomas M. Check, the doctorate of sci­ ence. honoris causa, with all the rights and privileges appertaining thereto. found with the project." Christine Liberaski, former communica­ tions assistant at Wilkes, is a public rela­ tions specialist for Communications Solutions Croup, a Philadelphia-area public relations firm. FINDING MEANING March 1996 marked Check's 34th visit to Jamaica. He plans to contin­ ue his work in that country as long as the "Lord allows it." He says he and his wife are hooked on helping and they sur­ round themselves with reminders of the orphanages—photo collages on the walls of his dental office and scrap books at the receptionist's desk. One of the first things patients see as they enter his office is a poster that reads "Love Has No Boundaries." "I never wanted to be labeled a 'wooly-minded do-gooder,' I wanted to have purpose and meaning, concludes Check. "That's what 1 have Cheek with ii satisfied dental patient. 15 �PROFILE Wilkes Universe Wilkes and the Susquehanna A River Runs Through It Wilkes University's histo­ ry has been inexorably linked with the Susquehanna River over the decades. The school's song has lilted to and fro with the flow of water evi­ dent just along the west­ ern edge of the school's grounds. Sometimes, that rela­ tionship has turned a tad adversarial. In June, 1972, the rage of Hurricane Agnes turned Wilkes's grounds into a muddy hinterland. Most recently, a melting of a vast snowpack in January, 1996, dictated the evacua­ tion of a buzzing campus that had just found its spring semester vibe. RIVER AESTHETICS Yet, despite the inherent risk of locating an acade­ mic collective so near to a majestic tributary', Wilkes University and her denizens treasure the aes­ thetic value of the geo­ graphic marriage. Take heed the thoughts of Karen Gould '93, a native of Pitman, NJ. "To me. the river added to the beauty of being at Wilkes,” she says. "Think about it. Would you rather have your school located next to a natural landmark like the Susquehanna or a I CD In January, rising river waters necessitated the evacuation of downtown Wilkes-Barre and the University. major road or highway?" The lure of the Susquehanna has even bordered on the mystical. Just ask Tom McGuire '85, the University's sports information director and former cross-country coach. "I was a runner during my years as a student, and I was familiar with our courses in my days as a coach," says McGuire. "It was very interesting to show the course to the other schools. Many times we would run along Nesbitt Park or other points near to the river and you would see the fog coming off of the water. Some of the other coaches would comment about the mystery of the Susquehanna." Although the Colonel runners enjoyed a natural affinity for their home course, the complexities of the water course some­ times caused unwanted problems. "I remember a particular race from 1981," says McGuire. "Part of the course was flooded. When we would explain to the other squads that some of the course was below the dikes, they used to think we were running in the river. Unfortunately, some­ times we were." RISING WATERS McGuire's runner's lament pales in compari­ son to the woes that the By James Clark '93 Wilkes student body expe­ rienced on January 20 of this year. At 7 p.m. on the 19th, the river was predicted to crest at 27 feet, 10 below the flood stage around the Wilkes campus. By 11 p.m. that evening, the Wyoming Valley’s flood plain was being voluntarily evacuat­ ed. The evacuation would become mandatory a mere eight hours later. As Wilkes's resident population was transport­ ed to College Misericordia in nearby Dallas, Pa.. Residence Life coordina­ tor Doug Lane '89 attempted to place the emergency in perspective. "When I was a student." he says, "I remember the river almost reaching its banks. (The Susquehanna) certainly adds to the cam­ pus experience, but here was a situation where it was causing a tremendous amount of trouble." Lane was one of several Wilkes staff members who managed the student dis­ placement that evening. "Everyone was very calm, he says. "We were instructed to access the dormitories and pull the fire alarms. I would say by I a m., the campus was evacuated for the most Part. It was a very surreal experience." So says Paul O'Hop, the University's vice president coordinated the evacua­ tion. "We have a plan that we follow when a potential disaster faces the school," says the former military officer. "First of all, we consider personal survival. Next, the school reconsti­ tutes. Then, we recover." O'Hop had nothing but praise for staff members who helped move equip­ ment that evening. "I’ll say this much," he says, "they were model employees. We found our­ selves in a very difficult sit­ uation. especially where the new classroom build­ ing was concerned. Even though we were covered by insurance, many of the valuable items were moved to higher ground. It was a complete team effort." I A LEARNING RESOURCE Wilkes's relationship with the Susquehanna isn’t always classified as dangerous, however. According to Ken Klemow. associate profes­ sor of Biology, the pres­ ence of the river on the campus environs adds to a student's educational experience. "There's no question that the Susquehanna has an enormous educational value," he says. "It's a resource that's used in various ways." Chief among those is the river's role as a natural laboratory. "The science students use the river in several ways," says Klemow. "We study river vegetation, ttT/iere’s no question that the Susquehanna has enormous educational value. It's a resource that’s used in various ways." Ken Klemow Assoc. Professor of Biology V �PROFILE Writing What They Know Flooding precipitates Presidential meetings Flood waters have brought United States Presidents to Wilkes-Barre on two occasions in the past 25 years. After the lune, 1972 flooding tfiat resulted from tropical stonn Agnes. President Richard Nixon presented a S4 ntillion check to Wilkes president Dr. Francis Michelini (right), say­ ing "this is one check that won t bounce, Dr. Mike." In February, Wilkes president Dr. Christopher Breiseth was one of several community leaders Io participate in a round table discussion during President Bill Clinton’s visit to the city (below and bottom right), wfiicfi followed small stream flooding and evacuation of the downtown water flow, water chem­ istry’. fish population—you name it." Klemow adds that the Susquehanna benefits undergraduates in ways that transcend its worth as a unique ecosystem. "When you consider the river"' he says, "you can t think only cf its scientific value fa u must also con­ sider its role ir. the culturai and business aspect of a Wilkes stude.';t r.--,r scends pure ecc.or. Dr Dale Ere-’■ . <itchair of Gecer . S’-jJi'.'.rz .A trerr.e-sc ■1 7 to study," he says. "If you go back as far as the 1800s, when the timber and mining industries were in full force, you'd find a river that's drastical­ ly different than what it is right now.” IMPROVING WATER QUALITY Bruns is upbeat about trie river as he champions its recent evolution. The acid content of the water has definitely decreased since the ' eydey of the mining industry.' he says. "You also have a lesser amount of sediment and heavy metals entering the water, although that is still a problem. "I would say that over the last hundred years, the river's water quality has improved by leaps and bounds. It's been gradual but steady" Such a diagnosis is good news to people such as Tim Sichler ‘85, a graduate assistant in Computer and Electrical Engineering who currently serves as the University's crew team advisor. "Our attitude is that you might as well utilize the river," he says." Yes. the water can be cold, but we try to man the boats on as many days as possible; we try to soldier on. But when the depth gets to be about ten feet, we abandon the cause. Until then, it's busi­ ness as usual.” That sentiment can be cited when considering the Wilkes experience through the years. In 1972, the campus was inundated with the "muddy water." In 1993, a flood scare caused tensions to rise in the community, only to be heightened by the 1996 evacuation. Paul Kanjorski "59, rep­ resentative to the 11 th Congressional District of Pennsylvania for more than a decade, has pro­ posed the harnessing of the Susquehanna's vast potential into a lakefront venture. It’s Kanjorski's view that such a focusing of the river's drawing power would only improve the quality of life in its surrounding communities. Whether or not such high-stakes enviroplanning would benefit Wilkes remains to be seen, but, as Klemow sees things, the Susquehanna is there to take advantage of. "The river can be tapped in so many ways," he says. "We've only scratched the surface of it." lames Clark '93 recently was hired as a copy editor at The Press of Atlantic City. southern New jersey's daily newspaper. The Faculty Authors Wilkes University We've all heard it; sitting in com­ position class, chewing on the edge of a pencil, staring at the long blank page with rows and rows of blue lines to fill- Write what you know, the professor says. Your thoughts are there, lust write them. And while undergradu­ ates still ponder which thoughts they may ). Michael Lennon have that are worth writing down, many of their men­ tors are taking their own advice. Professional, academic writing, once thought to be confined to the realm of articles in scholarly jour­ nals. has blossomed in a way unique to small schools such as Wilkes University. From full-length plays to third-edition textbooks, members of the Wilkes faculty have been busy chewing on the edges of their own pencils, writing—and Publishing—major works. Members of the Wilkes faculty embody a variety of writing genres; scholarly, trade nonfiction, and cre­ ative writing. "It is remarkable at a University like Wilkes, where the teaching load is heavy and teaching >s stressed, that we can produce authors such as these," says Dr. |. Michael Lennon, vice president for Academic Affairs. "It is a tribute to diligence and creativity." ON THE SHELVES AT WALDEN It is diligence, indeed, that would readily describe the work of authors such as Dr. Kuo-Kang Shao, profes­ sor of History. Shao's work, a book about Zhou Enlai, a Chinese policy maker, will be available later this year through St. Martin's Press. The book represents eight years of writ­ ing and research into more than 1,000 primary sources. Despite his meticulous work, however, Shao notes that he could have devoted himself even longer to the project. A similar sentiment is expressed by Dr. Dennis Hupchick, associate professor of History, who has authored three books about Eastern Europe, and co-authored and edit­ ed several more. While many of these works have been scholastic, his most recent solo project. Conflict and Chaos in Eastern Europe, was pub­ lished by the trade division of St. Martin's Press in 1995. Hupchick feels that many of his classroom discussions informed and improved his writing. As in the classroom, Hupchick takes a nontraditional approach to expressing his thoughts, and while he writes for an educated reader, one does PhD. to comprehend his not need al ---------. work. Hupchick sees writing as his opportunity to reach beyond the By Melanic O'Donnell '93 �PROFILE ^Knowledge is not a matter of notes, but what is in your head. If you’ve got interesting and different view­ points, get them out there." Dr. Dennis Hupchick Assoc. Professor of History Wilkes Universe classroom, using his students questions to shape the topics of his arguments. In fact, his next book, already in progress, will be designed to be used as "a student text, but not a textbook," he says. He stresses that any educational material, whether it be in lecture or written format, must be interesting above all else. "As a writer. I have to present something in a coherent and under­ standable fashion," he says. "That’s an extension of the classroom. Knowledge is not a matter of notes, but what is in your head. If you've got interesting and different view­ points, get them out there." IN THE UNIVERSITY SHOPPE What do nuclear reactors, alco­ holic beverages, and steroids have in common? Dr. William R. Stine could tell you. Stine, associate pro­ fessor of Chemistry, recently pub­ lished a third edition of his college textbook. Applied Chemistry. The book arose from the need to create a text intended for non-science majors, one that would demonstrate chem­ istry through everyday objects. In addition to relating chemistry to reactors, alcohol, and steroids, the latest COMING SOON TO A THEATRE NEAR YOU A- ■w- 35 cfW 1 \ Dennis Hupchick 20 edition also includes sections on radon, soap, and baking. In Stine s case, his teaching directly affected the development of the book. "In 1978, I was team teaching a class with several professors, called 'Chemistry for the Consumer.' a course for non-science majors in which we discussed relevant, inter­ esting material. There was no text, but every week we wrote more handouts, which developed into the book.” While the course no longer exists. Stine still uses the text in several formats. Currently, he is teaching it as a Special Topics in Chemistry course to upperclass science majors. Education majors also have read the book on a self-study basis. Additionally, the text is used at more than 100 colleges and univer­ sities throughout the country. "The material lends itself to being used at a lot of different levels," he observes. "There was definitely an established need." Stine is keenly aware, however, of the need to keep such a book cur­ rent, and is willing to publish fur­ ther editions when necessary. But a new project? "Not for a while," he sighs. De®°'s No stranger to the stage. Dr Bonnie C. Bedford, associate pro­ fessor of English, had her first play _ produced before she finished her \ bachelor's degree. \ Comprehensively, Bedford has \ had original works produced 25 3 \ times. But the past few years „\ have been different: her plays \ Sniper. Accident, and two ver- sions of Croup S.O.S. (one with an It is perhaps because of this that a||-female cast, one all-male) have Bedford could not envision herself been professionally produced at the leaving teaching to become a Adam Hill Theatre in Los Angeles. full-time writer. "Teaching California. Additionally. Sniper was makes me question everything I do. It adds account/® ' produced at the T. Schreiber Theatre in New York City, as well as ability." at Wilkes's own Dorothy Dickson Dr. Robert D. Stetten. associate professor of /.»38 Darte Center for the Performing Arts. It also was a finalist in the Psychology, found that Sundance competition, a writing his teaching subsequentcontest organized by the production ly inspired creative writcompany headed by actor Robert ing. "I developed a psy■ Redford. Bedford's screenplay. Watch chological drama to Fires, also was a semi-finalist at complement empiriSundance last year. cal-based knowledge So wouldn't teaching fledgling in the classroom, for exam­ writers seem a little dull to Bedford ple, a Personality class," he says. compared with all this excitement? From there, his work progressed Absolutely not, she says. She does­ to stage plays, staged readings, and n't view teaching and writing as radio plays, four of which have been separate processes—as she is produced on WV1A radio, and made teaching a class how to develop a available to National Public Radio story, she is writing with them. for broadcast. He still ties his writ­ Many of her students had the ing into the classroom, using the opportunity to witness the develop­ idea of a character study to explain ment of Sniper from the rewrite psychological concepts. stage to production. They even Stetten sees his moonlighting, offered criticism in her playwriting however, as a possible second workshop. career: upon his retirement, he For Bedford, educating students plans to devote himself to his writ­ about her personal experi­ ing full-time. ence as a writer is part of AND ON THE SYL­ her job. Students taking LABUS her class are often seeking All of Wilkes's faculty to become published or writers have found differ­ produced writers, and are ent ways to use their mate­ eager to learn about "the rial in the classroom, and business." Yet Bedford impress the value of writ­ feels that her responsibili­ ing upon the student as ty as a teacher is equally well. Hupchick notes that as important as her work Bonnie Bedford while he does not grade as a writer. his students on the quality of their Its energizing to work with stuwriting, he is more keen in making ents, she says. "It's exciting to students aware of writing blunders. 'scover talent and nurture it. Too "A paper that is not written well .,Uch out there can kill a writer, so I detracts from the content." he says. t Se a*1 apprenticeship style of Bedford believes that it doesnt f a5. ing'lts my role to guide and fac"'tate young writers." matter if her students decide to become professional creative writ- I ers or not. as writing creatively helps students in other ways. "Creative writers are more educat­ ed readers; they can pick up more subtle differences in a work. It also helps other Ly" types of writing, in that you come Bjk' . to understand the rules in a different way. Students who »K K way. ULUuciito wiiu Wp, , take a creative writ/ y ing class also can 7'.^ appreciate those who P- '■ . manage to succeed as writers, and recognize writing as a discipline that requires hard work," she notes. Vice President Lennon, an author himself, values the benefits that he feels students receive from faculty authors. "There is no professional academic activity that can con­ tribute to the classroom as writing or editing a book," he asserts. Lennon also values student input. "Student questions help you to not get too esoteric. You must think in terms others can understand. You must rejustify your viewpoint." Most authors can elaborate upon reasons why they feel they must commit themselves to the weighty' activity of writing large works. For some, like Shao, it is the devotion to a cause; for others, like Hupchick. it is a rewarding way to express their opinions. Still others feel a special obligation to write about some unique knowledge that only they may know. But Lennon best sums up why a teacher chooses to write: "It makes it real.” Melanie O'Donnell '93 is an assistant dean of Admissions at Wilkes. Sfie lias won several awards for her creative writing works. 21 �HOMECOMING Nfir Alumni Association president officers elected The ' •.■;> Dr ersm Ahc-m: Assotiatic-r. "ece~.t . ur.cenrer.t a change :r, feadersh.fp. .At its lune 8 meeting members of the Alumni Association Board of Directors elect­ ed William Goldsworthy '76, Suzanne Trosko z . Grum.-m •92, Elizabeth Ward 72 and William Miller '81 to the positions c-f president, first vice president, second vice president and treasurer, respectively. The new officers replace Colleen Gallagher 81, Fred Demech' 61 and James Ruck ‘78 who recently resigned after several years service on the board David Taylor '83 M’85 remains on as Secretary. The elections were held in accor­ dance with the Alumni .Association Constitution, which stipulates that vacancies which occur during a term of office be filled by vote of the board. Term of office is two years. Wilkes _ Wilkes University Alumni Mnrfr your calendar for Homecoming '96 *•“ M)0100 _ Pennsylvania — J Custom plates available to PA drivers The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has approved a special license plate spe­ cially for Wilkes University alumni. The special organization plates are blue and gold and include the Wilkes University' flying "W" emblem and the words "Wilkes University Alumni." Plates are available for Pennsylvania registered passenger cars, motor homes and trucks with a gross weight of less than 9,000 pounds. Motorcycles and trailers do not qualify', and personalized plates are not available. A one-time fee of S20 is charged for each plate. This fee is separate from annual registra­ tion fees. To order, complete the form on the inside back cover of this magazine and mail it to the Alumni Office with a check payable to Wilkes University. The Association must receive 300 forms before an order can be placed. Association plans “Big" trip to New York The Wilkes University Alumni Association is hosting a trip to see the new Broadway musical Big" on Saturday. September 21. Buses will depart Wilkes-Barre from Ralston Field at 9 a.m. The per­ formance begins at 3 p.m., and will be followed by a private reception and tour of FAO Schwarz hosted by Bill Miller ‘81, vice president of the world-renowned toy store. Buses will return to Wilkes-Barre at approxi­ mately 11 p.m. Cost for the trip is SI00. which includes transportation from WilkesBarre, a ticket to the performance 22 and admission to the reception. Other package options are $95 for show tickets only, $35 for the recep­ tion and bus ride only, and $25 for the reception only. A portion of the price benefits the Wilkes Alumni Association. Based on the 1988 movie of the same title, "Big" is the story of a 12year-old boy who suddenly finds himself projected into the body of a grown man. FAO Schwarz is one of the backers of the musical, which opened in April at the Shubert Theatre in New York City. Contact the Alumni Office for tickets. Planned for October 11,12 and 13, Homecoming 1996 promises to be a great weekend for reuniting with your classmates. Alumni events will kick off on Friday afternoon with the annual golf tournament and continue that evening at the Friday Night Frolic in the Annette Evans Alumni and Faculty House. Saturday's events will include the Top of the Hill celebration at the Munson Field House prior to the Colonel's football match-up against luniata. Afterward, meet your friends at Murray’s Inn for the Fifth Quarter party. In addition, the men's Colonels soccer team will meet Susquehanna at 11 a m. and the field hockey squad matches up with Delaware Valley at 1 p.m. Other weekend events planned include a Saturday night reunion gathering for alumni who lived in the River Street Warner Hall dormi­ tory. a Wilkes theatre production in the Dorothy Dickson Darte Center for the Performing Arts, a tennis tournament and a brunch for gradu­ ates of Wilkes's MBA program. Watch your mail for Homecoming Weekend flyers which will further detail the weekend events. Or for more immediate information, con­ tact the Alumni Office. For further information on any Alumni activities, contact the Willies University Alumni Office: (717) 831-4130 or (800) WILKES-U, ext. 4130 Willies University P.O. Box I 1 1 Wilhes-Barre PA, 18766 Fax: (717) 831-4973 e-mail: alumail@colonel.csc.ivilhes.edu Bop1 niiniin io willed an nevi) Alutnni Robert Wachowski S'.». '9 I, known to many Wilkes aluuuu re. -Colonel Bob. recently revepied u position at Wilkes as assistant io the executive director of Alumni and Development -The University is pleased to wel­ come back one of its biggest sup­ porters." says Wilkes president Christopher N Breiseth. "Bob Robert Wachowski Wachowski will be an asset to Wilkes as we continue to improve our ser­ vices to the alumni body." In the newly created Alumni Office position. Wachowski helps coordinate alumni events, such as Homecoming and Reunion Scholarship fund approaches goal The Alumni Scholarship Fund is half way there! Sponsored by the Association, the fund will be used to provide scholarships to children of Wilkes alumni who attend the University. The total currently stands at approximately $5,000, midway to the $10,000 minimum required to endow a scholarship at the University. The Alumni Board of Directors is planning several fundraising events to bolster the fund, including the t hd annual Alumni Dinner Dance, which will be held April 5, 1997 at the Westmoreland Club, WilkesBarre. Donations to the fund are welOrne. Checks should be made > e |-0 unjversj|.y anj led to the Alumni Office. ’Hi..'...: | 1 ., |M||d|)u; / V,l| ; Vi'lilliii < i . , , y , ,, . I,., I,, i. , .. , III'' • _ . , .. VAi' hovy i'i r<Beynon M'85, ' uluiniii and d(-7c' *.pu,, ui For tire pu.i two y, ar. ha§ beep epipJoyi u 3$ substitute u i ■ r 4 the .... Wayne School District where j e also served as cheerleading and soccer coach. A 1989 graduate of Wilkes with a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Wachowski served two years as a service representative for Sony Corporation before returning to the University to obtain a teach­ ing certificate in Mathematics During each tenure at Wilkes, he acted as the Wilkes Colonel, the liiiivricity masyet Jietn-’.i : —-cst : events, orgain.’ing p--p ■_■ll<::> nhil representing the Unneisit' ■ il ulumrii mid community events Wni howski was j student speak sr rtf birth 1989 mid 1994 Wilkes I oiruneiicement ceremonies and at llifi dedication of he Arnaud C Marts Center. In 1994, he received the University's athletic service award tor his work as the mascot He also was a finalist for a position as die Phillie Phanatic, mascot for the Philadelphia major league base­ ball team. The new Alumni Office position was created in response to an Alurnni Association report which called for additional staffing to achieve University and Alumni Association priorities. Wachowski began work at the University in May. University Events Calendar August 29, 1996 Thursday ❖ Summer Commencement' Convocation exercises September 14, 1996 Saturday ❖ Alumni Association Board of Directors' meeting, at Munson Fieldhouse prior to Wilkes vs. Widener football game September 21, 1996 Saturday, 2 p.m. •h New York City theater trip ;O see ''Big." Followed by FAO Schwarz alumni event. September 28. lq9o Saturday ❖ john Wilkes Club Dinner October 11-13, 1996 Friday tftrouyli SuHuari ❖ Homecoming Weekend October 12, 1996 Saturday ❖ University’Council meeting November 2. 1996 Saturday ❖ Alumni .Association annual membership meeting prior to Wftkes vs Delaware Valley foot­ ball game April 5, 1997 Saturday Annua’ Alumni Association Scholars:' p I '.md Dinner Dance M.iu 2-4, 1997 ❖ W.mmt WvW'.v. �mV-904SO Wilkes Universe AFTERTHOUGHTS (01-95) spS'SSSSoh registration plate PO. BOX 68266 Organization or Compulsion? Fee: $20.00 In Pursuit of a New World Order A Dy Anthony L. Liuzzo, J.D., Ph.D. Anthony L. Liuzzo. I.D., Pfi.D., Associate Professor of Business and Economics, can De found "hanging tight" in his office at Willies University. coordinated by color and type of material, so it Is not uncommon for me to do a 'dark blue, delicate, cotloti wash." V 24 am organized. For years. I have been ridiculed, threatened, cajoled and misunderstood. But few will accept my compulsion without at least some feelings of discomfort. My office looks like an advertise­ ment from a furniture catalogue— computer hardware hidden; monitor tilting at exact 27.2 degrees; stapler and paper clips on the right side (all organized people are, of course, righthanded); scrap paper neatly aligned. My filing is up to the second and, in the event of my untimely demise, all of my work could be deciphered prior to the moment of my funeral. My office radio is always tuned to the weather station. My automobile serves as a monu­ ment to The Odd Couple's Felix Unger. It is always topped off with gasoline, its tires inflated to the exact recom­ mended pressure, its glove compart­ ment contents ordered with flash­ light, maps, flares and emergency towing information. It enjoys its weekly wash, and refuses to start if any one of its passengers possesses even an unlit cigarette. I never hang loose, only tight; refuse to cut anyone any slack; and I always play the symphony of my life from sheet music, never by ear. I am a fanatic about time. I am never late, and enjoy getting the "feel of a place" prior to my luncheon companion's arrival. I set my wristwatch daily to the atomic clock. I know precisely where I will be and what I will be doing during each minute for the next year, sleep exactly 7.63 hours per night and chew each bite of my food 31 times (I confess, I am a rebel at times). My home is immaculate. I employ the FIFO method for all foodstuffs and related items: rotating groceries, cleaning solutions, and toilet paper products. I am prepared for the diminished eyesight of my eventual old age, as my refrigerator is always maintained with milk on the top right, eggs in their container and mustard on the door shelf. My laun­ dry is coordinated by color and type of material, so that it is not uncom­ mon for me to do a "dark blue, deli­ cate, cotton" wash. I maintain paper trails for all of my business affairs. I possess every tax return that I have ever filed since my childhood, the original of every check I have ever written, all correspon­ dence (including Christmas cards) and a record of every incoming and outgoing telephone call. I own refer­ ence books and encyclopedias that would rival the Library of Congress. I can win any argument, about any subject, and can provide supporting citations and documentation in moments. I have never knowingly admitted to being wrong. Incidentally, I wish to thank all of those readers who wrote, who tele­ phoned or who otherwise expressed complimentary words for my past columns. A few even pointed out that, in the last issue of Wilftes Universe, I incorrectly cited the Declaration of Independence as containing the redun­ dancy "more perfect union," when in fact it was. of course, the United States Constitution. In light of my previous comments, I view my acknowledgment of this error as a new beginning for me. I resolve that tomorrow I will move my stapler to the left side of my desk! CURRENT REG. PLATE« TtTLE NUMBER 11 CURRENT EXPIRATION —E22--------------------------- —------------------------ MAKE OF VEHICLE YEAR If additional registration cards are desired, the fee Is $i.oo for each card..___________ I JR., me. Vast name" I -------- ■STREET ADDRESS ” first name ---- CITY , cards do you want? MIDDLE NAME OR INITIAL STATE TELEPHONE NUMBER ZIP CODE ( ) HOME ( ) WORK [7 ~TO BE COMPLETED BY APPLICANT NAME OF ORGANIZATION: NAME OF ORGANIZATION CHAPTER. POST. LOOSE. EMPLOYER, otc. TELEPHONE NUMBER Wilkes University Alumni Association (717) 831-4130 STREET ADDRESS CITY P.O. Box 111 STATE Wilkes-Barre ZIP CODE PA 18766 TO BE COMPLETED BY ORGANIZATION OFFICIAL (see special Instructions below) I certify that the Individual named In Section A Is a member In good standing of the organization listed In Section B: NAME TITLE Sandra A. Beynon Director of Alumni SIGNATURE X____________________________________ I CERTIFY THAT ALL. INFORMATION GIVEN ON THIS APPLICATION IS TRUE AND CORRECT AND. THAT WHEN I CEASE TO BE A MEMBER OF THE ABOVE NAMED ORGANIZATION. I WILL LU. IMMEDIATELY RETUF IRN THE REGISTRATION PLATE TO THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION. X. DATE APPLICANTS SIGNATURE IN INK GENERAL INFORMATION REGARDING A SPECIAL ORGANIZATION REGISTRATION PLATE Wilkes University. DO • Fee required with this application is $20.00. Payment is to be made by checker money order payable to NOT SEND CASH. • No special organization registration plate will be duplicated. If your plate is lost or stolen, we will reissue you the next available plate in our series for $5.00. To apply for replacement, complete Form MV—44 and submit with the required fee. • Requests for special organization registration plates are restricted to passengervehicles, trucks and motorhomes with a registered gross weight of not more than 9,000 lbs. Motorcycles and trailers do not qualify for special organization registration plates. • NO REFUND OF FEE will be issued when applicant cancels request after order is placed. • This application, completed in full, along with a check or money order should be mailed to Wilkes University, The Alumni Office, P 0 Box 111, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18766. • Wren the applicant ceases to be a member in the organization or ceases to beemployed^ a pre^ f*o^ Section B, the registration plate must be returned to the Department. Complete Form MV-44 and submit afee of $5.00 tor reissue ot a regular • All telephone numbers will be held in confidence and used only in the event of a problem with your application. • Special organizat ion plates are in number sequence only and may not be personalized. • 11 applicant is a notary appIying for a notary publk piate. the applicant's notary seal should appear in this sectbn instead of an officiars signature senes registration plate. SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS - SECTION C �w I L K E S UNIVERSE Wilkes University Wilkes-Barre, PA 18766 ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED If this magazine is addressed to a graduate who no longer maintains a residence at your home, please tear off the mailing label and mail It, with the corrected address, to the Alumni Office. NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAI D PERMIT NO. 355 WILKES-BARRE, PA � https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/251b6a4cf71ac97a221a37d85efdb385.pdf d81f5191e5181b1540f9ed70deae88f8 PDF Text Text �PRESIDENTIAL PERSPECTIVE The making of a college town UNIVERSE Volume 3 •> Number 2 Editor Vaughn A Shinkus 91 Director of University Relations Craig (Mark) Davis Associate Editors Stephanie Geyer Krista Gromalski '91 Editorial Assistants Karen Jones Patty Mead us '98 Jean Pall Sports Editor Tom .McGuire 85 Executive Director of Alumni and Development Sandra Beynon M'85 Design Projects by Design Corporation Administration Christopher N. Breiseth, Ph.D. President ]. Michael Lennon, Ph.D. Vice President for Academic Affairs Paul A. O'Hop Vice President for Business Affairs and Auxiliary Enterprises Paul Strunk Vice President for Alumni, Development and. University Relations by Universit/s ReiAzlcns Office and distributed free to b.Gcr.r : arc -ner.de cf the University Ccrn'TienCs, sug.s, and story ideas are-Ae.ccrned Submit ail CGrres;-.:.- denoe tc. Vaughn Sr..r-r j-s. ?..n. Manager, Uri.efi t;.'.Vnrec-Barre PA 18766. Or call 1-800ere.': nr 477? Faz f7!7j <n-4973. EmaJ- alumnjpjb^ j/Jkes? .wlkea.ed-j Contents The concept of promoting Wilkes-Barre as a college town now being embraced by area leaders will prove mutually beneficial for both the academic and business communities in the WILKES Profiles Wyoming Valley. Wilkes has a long-standing tradition of serving the community both in educating students of the area and in developing academic programs responsive to local needs. It was the foresight of early leaders of the community who first recognized the need for an institution of higher learning in the Wyoming Valley that led to the estab­ Dr. Breiseth lishment of Bucknell Junior College in 1933 at the depth of the great Depression. Community leaders also provided the impetus for the transition to the four-year Wilkes College 50 years ago. As the 21st Century approaches, we are exploring ways to further strengthen the linkage between the Wilkes community and downtown Wilkes-Barre. Given our location, Wilkes is inevitably entwined with the city. We approach the challenge of marketing the two entities in a cooperative and enthusiastic frame of mind. In all our communications with prospective students, we hope to convey the message that they will become part of a community which extends beyond the campus borders, a lovely small city on the banks of the Susquehanna River. In the same way, prospective businesses can be recruited to Wilkes-Barre knowing that their customer base will comprise students and faculty from Wilkes, as well as our neighboring institutions—King’s College, Luzerne County Community College, College Misericordia and Penn State University at Lehman. A tangible indicator of progress on this front will be the placement of interstate highway signs identifying the five institutions of higher education in our area. This cooperative venture, jointly coordinated and funded by the colleges, local businesses, the Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business and Industry. Luzerne County and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, will ensure that motorists on Interstate 81 -ill identify Wilkes-Barre as a college town. We hope they will be enticed to stop, as well, to visit. To make the college town concept work will require a psycho­ logical change as we move from being the "old coal town." That change is underway, lust as Wilkes has modified our programs and services to better meet the needs of our students, the t eadershiP is encouraging merchants to identify and Ithe needs of our students and faculty and thus cultivate (Continued on page 14) Page 4 Visions of Grandeur Since named director of the Sordoni Art Gallery more than three years ago. Dr Stanley Grand has brought the gallery to a neu> level of prominence in the art community. On the Runway Page 8 Newly crowned Miss New Jersey. Melanie Joyce Bell is the third Wilkes student or alumni contestant to compete in the Miss America Pageant. So what's the allure? Page 12 Wilkes-Barre: Collegetown U.S.A. City leaders believe repositioning this former coal town as a college town will increase business traffic and ultimately improve the area's standard of living. Page 17 Marathon Man Revolutionary heart surgery cured a Baltimore podiatrist's irregular heart beat and altouui him to return home to compete in the Boston Marathon. Departments Cover Presidential Perspective — Cooperation is key to college tou-n success. Page 2 On Campus — Pharmacy School marks its official opening. Page 16 Colonels of Excellence — Wilkes coach accompanies team to Czech Reput’iic. Page 20 Alumni in Sports — Kevin Gryboski '93 pitches in the minor leagues. Page 22 Homecoming — Wilkes names neic assistant in Alumni Office. Page 24 Afterthoughts — Tony Littzzo predicts ireather u’ith the accuracy efan ecciraiiiist. w WILKES UNIVERSITY On the Cover-. Stanley Grand and Nancy Knaverii: the Sordoni Art Gallery. Photography 6y C. Siilunicfe Digital design by Projects By Design Corp. 1 �ON CAMPUS Wilkes Universe School of Pharmacy officially opens The 65 members of Wilkes's first pharmacy- class took the oath of the pharmacist at opening cere­ monies for the School of Pharmacy', held November 3 in the newly renovated Stark Learning Center. The newest of the University's four schools, the School of Pharmacy was granted provisional approval by the Pennsylvania Department of Education in A.ugust 1995. Wilkes also was granted pre-candidate status as part of the formal accreditation process by the American Council on Pharmaceutical Education ■ ACPE i. This status was granted in July i996 after a complete review of the pharmacy program and the University. This is the accepted and recommended route to full accreditation, which can only be awarded after the first class graduates in the year 2000. The pharmacy program consists of five years of study leading to a Doctor of Pharmacy' degree. The school occupies the first and third floors of the Stark Learning Center. The first floor houses the new Pharmacy Information Center and computer labs, a model pharmacy and offices. The remodeled third floor includes the new anatomy and physiology' labs, pharmaceutics lab. five research labs, conference rooms, offices and accessory' rooms. Strunk named to top Development post [Paul Strunk has been named vice president for Alumni, Development and University Relations at Wilkes As chief advancement offi­ cer. Strunk will supervise the University's alum­ ni, annua! giving, planned giving, Paul Strunk community rela­ tions. and university relations func­ tions and will be the senior fundraiser for the institution Strunk joins Wilkes after J1 years as a development officer at the University of Scranton (Pa.j. He began in 1985 as assistant director of development with special respon­ sibility for corporate and foundation relations and later was named assis­ tant to the president. He served as both director of planned giving and director of annual giving before being promoted to director of devel­ opment and director of the capital campaign in January', 1995. A graduate of the University' of Pittsburgh and Scranton Central High School. Strunk was program coordinator for the Muscular Dystrophy Association in WilkesBarre and district executive of Forest Lakes Council of Boy Scouts of .America before joining the University' of Scranton. He is a member of the National Society of Fund Raising Executives Pocono Northeast Chapter, serves as board member and treasurer of Telespond Social Services, and as a board member of The Singers Guild in Scranton. Strunk replaces Thomas Hadzor who left the University in March to become associate director of the Comprehensive cancer Center at Duke University Medical Center. N.C. Wildes admits largest freshman class in years A heightened emphasis on student satisfaction and improved marketing efforts aided in the recruitment of the largest freshman class in recent history this fall, with more than 450 students enrolling at the University The fall 1996 freshman class is 23 percent larger than last year's, due in part to a campus-wide program to enhance recruiting and retention practices. In 1995, Wilkes contracted with an enrollment management consultant, Colorado-based NoelLevitz, to improve marketing tech­ niques. Other enrollment highlights: • The annual return rate of fall 1995 freshmen was 77 percent, up from 66 percent last year. • Of the 167 new transfer students from fall 1995, 72.4 percent regis­ tered for fall 1996. This is the best transfer return rate since 1989. • International student enrollment increased from 27 in 1995-96 to 40 for 1996-97. • A survey of students adminis­ tered in spring of both 1995 and 1996 indicated an increase in overall satisfaction in several areas. The campus-wide emphasis on recruiting and retention continues. Staff and administration are under­ going training designed to impart a better understanding of student needs, promote positive interaction, reduce job stress, and enable posi­ tive communication. In addition, the University recently held a fall visitation day for prospec­ tive students. Directed at high school seniors, the half-day program includ­ ed a complete overview of majors, faculty, facilities, students, athletics arid extracurricular activities. Determination is the key to success, Commencement speakers tell graduates Guests raise their glasses as Sandra Piccone presents the traditional toast to lohn Wilkes. Donors gather for annual John Wilkes Club Dinner More than 110 friends and alumni of Wilkes gathered on campus in September for the John Wilkes Club Dinner. The black tie event is held annually to recognize benefactors who con­ tribute $1.000 a year or more to the University. Guests were greeted at a cocktail party held in the new classroom/office building, overlooking the Fenner Quadrangle. For the first time in sev­ eral years, dinner was served in Weckesser Hall, a return to a tradition of old. Welcoming remarks were given by Rick Ross, a member of Wilkes's Board of Trustees, followed by remarks made by President Christopher Breiseth. Sandra Piccone, chairman of the 1996-97 Annual Fund delivered the traditional champagne toast to John Wilkes. For dinner, guests were offered a choice of beef tenderloin with bernaise sauce or chicken florentine with marsala sauce. "Wilkes University benefactors allow us to make Wilkes an excellent place to learn," says Claire Fox, director of Annual Giving, who planned the event. "Members of the lohn Wilkes Club lead in Illis effort." 'Nearly 70 graduates were awarded degrees at the University's annual summer commencement ceremony, held in August at the Arnaud C. Marts Sports and Conference Center. Honorary degrees were presented to Gary Alt., Ph D, a wildlife biolo­ gist, and Colonel William Corbett, a retired Army career officer and long­ time friend of the University. In accepting the honor, both men cited determination as the key for success in life. "Don't ever be afraid to dream,” Alt told the graduates. "If you work hard and never give up. your dreams can become a reality. You must believe in yourself, or no one else will believe in you.” "We cannot let ourselves be satis­ fied,” added Corbett. "Drop that sack of potato chips and get off your sofa." The Eugene S. Farley Alumnus Memorial Alumni Award was pre­ sented to Merri J. Earl ‘58, a first grade teacher in Binghamton, N.Y. (see article page 23). In delivering the keynote address. PresMeiil Christopher N. Brrisctli miwils tl:<degrees <il Coiiuiifiiawiit cwdsrs. Colonel William Corbett accepts an honorary doctor­ al degree from President Christopher N. Brefsetfi. Wilkes President Christopher N. Breiseth encouraged the graduates to live by the example set by the three honorees, by living lives in harmony with their environment. "In the use of natural resources," Breiseth said, "be mindful of future generations of both humans and wildlife. In the nurturing of the young, be mindful of intergenerational responsibilities both to our parents and to our children and grandchildren who will inherit the earth we leave them." The invocation was given by Rabbi Michael loseph. and the benediction by Reverend Bette Poe. Remarks were offered by Dr. I. Michael Lennon, vice-president for Academic Affairs. Mary B. Rhodes, chairman of the student affairs committee of the Board of Trustees. Walter A. Placek, Jr. '61, chair of the faculty affairs council and Paula Van Fossen '97, president of Student Government Greeting the graduates Van Fossen commended the graduates for their perseverance. "You are the proof that working on that paper an extra hour does pay off.' she said. "Thank you tor being wonderful role models to us all.' 2 3 �PROFILE Wilkes Universe At first glance, Stanley Grand appears a bit out of place on the Wilkes campus. He exudes style as he strides about the gallery, impeccably dressed in a swank, tailored suit, his salt and pepper hair slicked perfectly back. It's a look more befitting of an urban sophisticate than a col­ lege administrator. Grand Sordom Art Gallery director Stanley Grand and coordinator Nancy Krueger in the main gallery. Sordoni Art Gallery Visions of Grandeur By Rebecca Steinberger '92 4 ■ In reality Grand is both Now in his fourth year as director of the Sordoni Art Gallery, he emanates the high standards and excel­ lence he expects from his gallery exhibitions. It's a quality that shines through in every show. Call it panache. "A gallery tends to take on the personality of its director," says Joe Butkiewicz, arts and enter­ tainment editor with Wilkes-Barre newspaper The Times Leader and a member of the Sordoni’s Advisory Commission. "At the Sordoni, you see it in the kinds of shows, with the community organiza­ tions and increasing sup­ port among the Friends." Indeed, Grand has worked tirelessly to devel­ op an invigorated art com­ munity around the gallery. He's also continued the Sordoni's 25-year tradition of exhibiting diverse works of art not typical of local gallery displays. "We have the most ambitious gallery in this area," Grand asserts. "We see our competition as institutions such as Reed, Oberlin, and Skidmore. Having a highly visible gallery in a university with strong academics is inte­ gral." Members of the interna­ tional art community are beginning to notice. An art review in a recent edi­ tion of Tfe Neu< Republic ref­ erences the Louisa Matthiasdottir retrospec­ tive that will be shown at the gallery in early 1997. Curators from the renowned Whitney Museum in New York City have sought catalogs from recent Sordoni exhibi­ tions, and the internation­ ally-known Print Quarterly quoted from another A small conference room across from the main gallery ftas been converted into a print room which accommodates 12-24 wife on paper per show. Sordoni publication. In addition, several Sordoni shows have gone on to appear in other venues. Yet, for all the prestige and international recogni­ tion, the gallery remains one of the region's best kept secrets. "It is the most important art exhibit space in Northeastern Pennsylvania," says Butkiewicz. "But still it's under used for the quality of work that's there." A TRADITION OF QUALITY EXHIBITS Opened in 1973 to serve as a cultural center in the Wyoming Valley, the gallery was established with gifts provided by the Andrew J. Sordoni Foundation. By deacces­ sioning art from the for­ mer state senator’s collec­ tion, gallery directors established an acquisi­ tions fund for the pur­ chase of art works. It is still used today. Housed in the Stark Learning Center on the Wilkes campus, the main gallery' premieres approxi­ mately seven shows per year, each featuring any­ where from 25 to 45 art pieces, depending on the scale. In addition. Grand and gallery coordinator Nancy Krueger recently converted a small confer­ ence room across from the main gallery into a print room. The extra space provides a venue for the exhibition of works on paper, creating a balanced display of art pieces with­ in the gallery' at-large. Exhibitions tend to have �I he Sordoni has been put on the 7: . /.. • ~ art map. Melanie Maslow Lumia Sordoni supporter on nationally known con­ temporary artists. Each year the gallery holds at least one blockbuster exhibit—shows that fea­ ture works borrowed from around the country' and are accompanied by a scholarly catalog. Recent blockbusters include "Between Heaven and HelL Union Square in the 1930s" and "Robert L. Schultz: Drawings 19801995." Choosing such exhibi­ tions can be time-con­ suming. The Sordoni staff plans shows three years in advance, since art work often must be borrowed from individual lenders, museums and galleries The pieces are selected by Grand and Krueger, who often seek inspiration from the vast artistic Wilkes’s proximity to The Big Apple and other major cities has other advantages for the Sordoni staff, as well as the regional arts commu­ nity. The gallery' has led a number of bus trips to exhibits in New York City and Philadelphia. Lecturing over donuts and coffee served along the way, Grand provides back­ ground on the artist and exhibit the guests are about to see. Such art excursions have been popular among art lovers and novices alike. Grand says. Two recent trips to the Cezanne exhibit at the Philadelphia Museum of Art quickly sold out. Grand takes this role— as art educator—very seri­ ously. In addition to his Ph D. in art history to teach classes as an assis. tant professor in the art' department. He vieWsthe gallery first as a teaching resource, a point not lost on members of the University’s art faculty who recognize the impor­ tance of having a first-rate gallery in their own back­ yard. ii A NEARBY TEACHING RESOURCE Richard Fuller, chairper­ son of the department, feels it's important to expose his students to Sordoni exhibitions. Most recently, he took his class­ es to the Permanent Collection Exhibit, a dis­ play featuring selections from the gallery's 1500piece archive. Fuller applauds Grand for his skills in presenting the information to students. "He puts the exhibit in historical context for the ART 101 students and takes them through each piece," Fuller says. "For many students, the Sordoni is the only oppor­ tunity they have to see excellent works of art. If it were not for the gallery, they would never be exposed to the art world." The Sordoni is increas­ ingly becoming a player in that world, by way of the printed pieces become part of the annals on each artist. "We're really looking to become a part of the scholarly dialogue," he says. FRIENDS HELP SUSTAIN Like many art institu­ tions, the gallery, which remains free and open to the public, relies heavily on the support of its benefactors. More than 550 "Friends of the Grand and Krueger plan shows three years in advance, since art is often borrowed from throughout the nation. Other fund raising vehi­ cles include Sotheby’s Heirloom Discovery Days and a recent sale of Fine Art Limited Edition Lithographs. Melanie Maslow Lumia, a Wilkes trustee and member of the Sordoni Art Gallery Advisory Commission, commends Grand's efforts for reviving the newsletter and involv­ ing the business commu­ nity as a support mecha­ nism. "A high level of aware­ ness has been raised from companies with the cre­ ation of the Business Council." Lumia says. “The Sordoni has been put on the international art map." With the gallery' growing in space, support, and recognition, it would be plausible to think of relo­ cating the Sordoni to a larger space. But Grand remains content in the Stark Learning Center, explaining that perhaps sometime the Gallery will have the opportunity to move. It’s not an issue he’s concerned with at present, he says, and adds that the University admin­ istration has been extremely supportive of his efforts. "As long as the Sordoni Art Gallery remains acces­ sible to Wilkes University' and the community', it will thrive," Grand says. "We strive to further strength­ en Wilkes's reputation for excellence by consistently setting a high standard in all Sordoni activities." "We see the gallery tied to the big picture of Wilkes University." Rebecca Steinberger '92 is coordinator of part time pro­ grams at Wilkes. �PROFILE Wilkes Universe Miss America Pageant Wilkes women excel in scholarship competition The lights of an Atlantic City stage and the eyes of a nation upon her, the contes­ tant from Vernon, New Jersey deftly fell in line with other young women as they moved in rhythm toward the moment when millions would learn their particu­ lars. As magician Harry Blackstone and a bevy of male dancers twirled, tricked and tumbled while Regis Philbin paced off stage right, the 20-year-old biology major had her moment in the sun. giving a highereducation institution's scattered body of alumni, students and facul­ ty members a collective thrill. "Melanie Bell. Miss New Jersey, Wilkes University!" Yes. during the Miss America Pageant she was ours. For five seconds on prime-time network television, the school’s name was out there for all the right reasons, oddly enough for the third time this decade. Bell followed in the hallowed footsteps of Wilkes graduates Linda O'Boyle Zaneski I 4 8 h i i 4 7 I I I ^a"'e ^ce Be^ Performs her signature dance routine at the Miss America pageant, held in September in Atlantic City, N.J. 91 and Judy Fitch Guinosso '92 as representatives of a state (those ladies bearing Pennsylvania's ban­ ner) m the most recognized schol­ arship pageant in the history of such events. FAMILY LOSS IMPARTS DRIVE TO HELP OTHERS By James Clark '93 I Bell s presence was more than warranted, according to the Pageant's standards. Her platform, "Children in Crisis: Dealing with Loss and Separation," is rooted in the passing of her father while she attended high school. As Bell, an aspiring veterinarian who also boasts a distinguished dance resume, told the pageant's atten­ dees, "I handled my own grief process with the unconditional love of animals, my dedication to dance and by helping others." Her work in helping others face the loss of loved ones has led to her establishing a bereavement group on the Wilkes campus. Because of her leadership role in campus organizations like this one. Bell has become well-known among her fellow students, according to Jane Lampe-Groh, dean of Student Affairs. When speaking with Bell during one of her pre-pageant visits to campus, Lampe-Groh expressed the optimism shared by Bell's many Wilkes supporters. "I told her 1 hoped we wouldn't see her around here for a year," Lampe-Groh said. "We've arranged a three-day schedule for her so she can fulfill her duties as Miss New Jersey, but the Miss America sched­ ule would have precluded her schooling for a while." Alas, Wilkes's latest entry in the Miss America extravaganza didn't leave the resort town with a crown on her head or even a top-ten fin­ ish. But a mere two days before the pageant's hectic Saturday-evening spectacular finale, Bell took a rare break from an afternoon of rehearsals. With the sounds of the Carnival Cruise theme song emanating from a nearby piano, Bell stole away from a lunch of cod and Monterey Jack cheese to reflect on why Wilkes University has produced three Miss America contestants in the 1990s. Asked jokingly if Wilkes could now be considered a "pageant-con­ testant factory," Bell, clad in blue jeans, white sneakers and a gray sweatshirt, laughs aloud. "No, I just think it’s been a great coincidence," she says, adding that the personal attention inherent at Wilkes makes it easy for its stu­ dents to thrive in competition. "If anything, I think it's the one-on-one contact we have with our professors and fellow students. You learn to become sure of yourself and not be afraid to speak up. It definitely helps in pageants." ALUMNI CONTESTANTS LEAD THE WAY Former contestant O'Boyle Zaneski knows this well. The for­ mer Miss Pennsylvania became part of the pageant scene long before she received the state crown in 1991. Today, she is a new mother, a full-time nurse manager and the newly anointed Mrs. Pennsylvania, an honor bestowed to the winner of a pageant featuring married contes­ tants. In addition, she remains tied to the pageant world by train­ ing young women for competition at her Wilkes-Barre-based Zane Studio. Zaneski says the events have helped her develop public speaking skills that have been invaluable in her career and numerous volunteer activities. For that reason, it's one 66 I was so excited. Many people were incredibly nervous, but I couldn’t wait to go out there and have fun. 99 Melanie Joyce Bell Miss America contestant f ?r i 9 �PROFILE Wilkes Universe T Wilkes’s State Pageant Winners t.' ** ™ and color that generates some sort of pleasure in a beholder," he says. "In that way, I guess you could say the young women in these pageants are objects of beauty. "However, I remember Miss Bell being the only student in one of my particular classes to earn a 4.0," he adds. "She's really quite brilliant." \ I § I 1 INTELLIGENCE AND BEAUTY Linda O'Boyle Zaneski ‘91 Miss Pennsylvania 1991-92 Judy Fitch Guinosso '92 Miss Pennsylvania 1992-93 of the primary traits she strives to cultivate in her young students. "Some of the girls find the inter­ view portion of the pageants the most frightening," she says. "I tell them it's just important that they have an opinion and express it elo­ quently. The judges don’t grade you on what you say, necessarily, but in how well and strongly you say it." CRITICS SAY PAGEANTS PROPAGATE BEAUTY MYTH Still, pageants have been criti­ cized by those who believe that physical attributes, rather than ver­ bal expressiveness, are the most celebrated virtues of the contes­ tants. So why would a young women like Bell, who carries a 3.8 grade point average with minors in chemistry and dance, participate in a "beauty" pageant? "Miss America isn't a beauty pageant, it's a scholarship pageant," Bell counters. "You don't have to be beautiful to be Miss America. There are other qualities that the judges look for. They look at your platform and how you pre­ sent yourself." Melanie Joyce Bell '97 Miss Neiv Jersey 1996-97 And to those who disagree, she offers a more pragmatic rationale. "Well," Bell says, "I'm participat­ ing in pageants for scholarship money. What I want to become (a veterinarian) requires a lot of tuition money. Even though Wilkes is a great school, it isn’t inexpen­ sive. I'm just trying to get as much scholarship money as 1 can." Financial rewards notwithstand­ ing, the underlying premise on which pageants are built troubles many, including Holiday Adair, Wilkes associate professor of psy­ chology. "Without taking away from (Bell)." she says, "1 think pageants are a way of saying, 'Here's how we’re to treat women.' They're definitely one way to finance an education, but overall, I think they have a negative effect on the development of women's roles in our society." Stanley Kay, professor of philoso­ phy at Wilkes, takes a disciplinerelated view of pageants, but is quick to commend Bell's academic prowess. "In loose philosophical terms, beauty is an arrangement of line Lampe-Groh agrees with Kay's assessment of Bell and feels the same applies her fellow Miss America contestants. "I think when you look at that stage, yes, you see a lot of beautiful women, but you don't see too many unintelligent ones," Lampe-Groh says. "The program that Melanie is undertaking is very ambitious.” O'Boyle Zaneski, who also judges pageants, has heard from many Linda O'Boyle ZanesDi relinquishes the title of Miss Pennsylvania to I tidy Fitch Guinosso in 1992. e Bell takes a break with Miss Neiv Hampshire between rehearsals for the Miss America Pageant. pageant detractors during the course of her competitive years, and she's often countered their arguments. "1 earned scholarship money and, now. cash prizes,” she says. "1 learned how to be confident in front of people. Being successful in pageants has definitely opened doors for me." Former pageant participant Fitch Guinosso offered similar sentiment in a September 1992 interview with Wilkes-Barre's Citizens' Voice newspa­ per. "Aside from the scholarship money, the experiences were so valuable," she said. "It wasn't at all what 1 expected. I thought there would be a competitive atmosphere between the girls and that each one of us would be in our own little world. "Instead, we talked to one anoth­ er. we communicated ... 1 felt a bond with everyone." The camaraderie, along with the scholarship money and public com- I 1 munication skills the women devel­ op, are only some of the rewards offered by pageant competition, the women say. The thrill of performing in front of a crowd is also a major highlight, Bell says. "I was so excited." she says. “So many people were incredibly ner­ vous, but 1 couldn't wait to go out there and have fun. I've been danc­ ing for so many years, and it was definitely a highlight." But above all. she adds, the Miss America mystique is inescapable. "Without a doubt, it's definitely something 1'11 look back on and treasure, no matter how old 1 am or how far away 1 am from the experi­ ence,” she says. ”1 mean, it's every little girl's dream to walk on that stage with a chance to be named Miss America. I'm lucky enough to have lived it." James Clark '94. a frequent Universe contributor, is a copy editor with the Press of Atlantic City (N.J ). 11 �PROFILE Wilkes Universe Wilkes-Barre Cultivating an image College town, U.S.A. Wilkes President Christopher Breisetti speaks at a neies confer­ ence announcing a joint agreement establishing cross-registration between Wilkes, Kings College and College Misericordia. knowledge industry. They believe the Wilkes-Barre of the future isn’t a coal town, but a college town. The logic behind the concept is nearly indisputable. Greater WilkesBarre has five colleges—Wilkes. Kings College. Luzerne County Community College. College 2 Misericordia and Penn State Wilkes§ Barre. Working in concert with the business community, they have 6 great potential to contribute posi­ tively to the psyche and economy of the city, and ultimately make it a Wilkes-Barre, it seems, is a better place to live. city without an identity. Reaching that point, the leaders Once a prosperous mecca concede, will require changes in the for anthracite barons, the way the colleges interact with the city has spent the better city and with one another part of this century trying to Moreover, the area must overcome shake its coal town label an inferiority complex which shapes the way it is perceived. Just as the and redefine itself in the black mounds of coal residue wake of the industry’s haven't disappeared overnight, it decline. won't be easy to change public per­ Now, as the new century dawns, ception of an entire community. community leaders believe they But it can be done—indeed, has have found the answer to this been done-—in other cities across conundrum, if the city is to prosper, the nation. Tom Dennis, editorial they say, the demise of the coal page editor of Wilkes-Barre's The industry must give way to a growing Times Leader recently travelled to five O By Vaughn Shinkus '91 12 of the country's best known college towns to research a continuing series of editorial reports. The newspaper chose Amherst, Mass., Blacksburg. Va„ Burlington, Vt„ State College, Pa. and Fargo, N.D. as cities that might serve as a model for the transformation of Wilkes-Barre into a college town. PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES SET COLLEGE TOWNS APART College communities, Dennis says, share traits which set them apart from your average metropolis, not the least of which is an over­ whelming aesthetic. In Blacksburg, bike paths and hiking trails inter­ lace with the streets and walkways of village life. Burlington boasts sprawling mountains and lake front parks. State College is surrounded by rolling countryside. Even cold, flat Fargo has cultivated parks which span 2,000 acres. "Definitely part of what is appeal­ ing about these places is that they are just so pretty,” Dennis says, not­ ing that with its river-front setting and location at the foot of the Pocono Mountains, Wilkes-Barre has potential to be a city as beauti­ ful as any other. Beyond physical beauty, however, college communities have attribut­ es which make them fine places to visit and live, Dennis says. Traits such as charm, culture, a love of learning and pride in the communi­ ty also contribute to their attractive­ ness . "Run down the list of criteria that improve quality of life and it adds up to college town," Dennis says. Cultivating these intangibles in Wilkes-Barre will take time, and many feel attempting to do so would be putting the proverbial cart before the horse. The first step in creating a college town environ­ ment is to open the psychological boundaries that exist between the colleges and the city, says Larry Newman, Wilkes-Barre City's direc­ tor of economic development. "From our perspective, there's a certain amount of misunderstand­ ing that we are magically going to transform Wilkes-Barre into a col­ lege town," Newman says. "It really has more to do with finding ways to better integrate the lives of the col­ leges with the lives of the down­ town businesses." Stephen Barrouk. president of the Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business and Industry', agrees. "1 see it as a mutually beneficial exercise for the schools and the community," Barrouk says. "The stu­ dent body and faculty offer a vitality to the downtown. For too long there has been a separation of these mutually compatible entities." Both Newman and Barrouk say they are changing their retail recruiting strategies to target busi­ nesses that will attract the college 96 For too long there has been a separation of these mutually compatible entities. 99 Stephen Barrouk President. Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business and Industry 13 �PROFILE population to the downtown. In doing so, they hope to create a syn­ ergy between students and mer­ chants that will have a positive effect on Wilkes-Barre's downtown economy. COLLEGES ONE PART OF DOWNTOWN SUCCESS Still, there are several pitfalls inherent in advancing the concept, the largest of which is economic. The 12-13,000 students that attend the colleges of Greater Wilkes-Barre pale in comparison to the 20,000 or more that attend college town schools like Penn State University or Virginia Tech. "The biggest barrier is the num­ bers," says Dennis. "In these other places, students account for a large part of the population. Students in Wilkes Universe this area just don't pack the eco­ nomic clout to drive the economy. Newman and Barrouk concede that Wilkes-Barre's students make up a smaller percentage of the pop­ ulation than those in places like State College and Blacksburg. They both note, however, that Greater Wilkes-Barre's combined college population is significant enough in number to complement other seg­ ments of the market. Recent suc­ cesses in recruiting office workers to the city will make the downtown dynamic even richer. "I don't think it will ever be a pure campus community, but there are enough students to make a differ­ ence." says Barrouk. "We have a base of a lot of young people that can make the downtown more youthful. PRESIDENTIAL PERSPECTIVE (continued from inside front cover) their business. A student-friendly downtown will increase the amount of foot traffic, as students and faculty alike are encouraged to view the city as an extension of their campus and participate in its social and cultural life. At the same time, the colleges are joining together to pro­ mote activities centered around the downtown area. It is too early to predict whether a joint collegiate center and bookstore on Public Square for Wilkes and King's students can be made financially feasible. But the very exploration of the proposal, at the same time Wilkes, King's and College Misericordia have signed a consortium agreement allowing students to cross-register for courses on each other's campus, is a sign of new thinking. These initiatives will contribute to the sense of commitment by the community and the colleges to the youth of our area. The future of both the city and the educational institutions rests in no small part on the success of these efforts. The first step in positioning the region for success in the knowledge industry will be in creating an environment where leaders in business and academia can thrive. By all indications, college towns have all the necessary ingredients. We at Wilkes are delighted to be part of the mix. 14 Area leaders hope Wilkes-Barre's Public Square will serve as a central gathering point for a diverse group of people. Adds Newman, "We won't be a college town to the exclusion of everything else. What makes the downtown so unique is that so many different people can come into contact with one another." Perhaps the biggest impediment to progress will be getting every­ one—students, merchants, resi­ dents—to change their attitudes toward their own community and toward one another. "Traditionally the downtown has been viewed as the DMZ between two colleges." says Newman. "That needs to be overcome. Perception is the largest barrier to break through." With that in mind, the city and colleges have joined forces to coor­ dinate a series of ongoing joint col­ lege events aimed at drawing stu­ dents from the five colleges togeth­ er in the downtown. The first was a welcome back student party held in September on Public Square with bands from each of the five colleges competing for the title of Best College Band. Afterward, downtown businesses hosted an "All College Mixer" at a downtown hotel. On the heels of this successful event, a committee of student and administrative representatives from the five colleges was formed to organize others For Halloween, the group coordinated a haunted man­ sion staffed by service clubs from the five colleges and held down­ town in the newly renovated Pomoroys building. And students from all five schools gathered at a Halloween costume contest and party held in the F. M. Kirby Center. In addition. Cafe Cinema, a monthly showing of independent films and discussions with independent film­ makers, was held downtown at the F. M. Kirby Center and promoted as a joint college activity SCHOOLS COOPERATE TO BETTER THE COMMUNITY The schools have begun to work together in more formal ways, as well. In December, Wilkes, Kings and Misericordia announced the adoption of a uniform academic cal­ endar and a cross-registration agreement which will allow stu­ dents at each institution to take classes at the other two schools. The decision opens the door for additional consortia! ventures such as joint faculty appointments and § <D CD O CO •5 Wilkes freshman Donna Talarico assists Disc jockey Jeff Walker al an all-college Parly held al the EM. Kirby Center. ' I d Kings College President Rev. James Lackenmier, C.S.C., Willies President Breiseth and Misericordia President Dr. Albert Anderson sign an agreement which permits students to register for classes at any of the three institutions. academic programming, valuable tools in marketing Wilkes-Barre as a college community. School officials agree that such cooperative arrangements will not replace the healthy competition in recruiting, athletics and academics that exists among the schools. Rather, they say it means that each will endeavor to practice enlight­ ened seif interest. "I don't see this pushing each of us toward specialization," says Wilkes President Christopher N. Breiseth. "This does not supplant competition." In addition to the other initia­ tives, Wilkes and Kings are consid­ ering a proposal to replace their campus bookstores with a com­ bined collegiate center located in the downtown. The idea, which is contingent upon negotiation with a third party bookstore contractor, has drawn mixed reaction from stu­ dents, many of whom are wean' of leaving campus to buy books. A sur­ vey of students at both institutions indicated that 60 percent have an interest in continuing discussions about the proposed center. Others, like Wilkes freshman Donna Talarico, are ready to pro­ ceed, full speed ahead. Talarico is so excited about the project that she's begun to adopt the parlance of an economic development officer. "That would be the building block for everything." Talarico says of the bookstore. "If we can increase foot traffic downtown, it'll really improve the overall image of Wilkes-Barre." No matter what the outcome of the collegiate center, projects like it mark the beginning of a new era of cooperation in Wilkes-Barre—the college town era. "We are a community in very sig­ nificant transition," says Barrouk. "I believe we will see a major transfor­ mation within the next five years. Progress is occurring as we speak." Adds Sue Kluger, executive direc­ tor of Leadership Wilkes-Barre, "It's a wonderful cooperative venture between town and gown. We're proud of our colleges and universi­ ties. Let's promote them." 15 �COLONELS OF EXCELLENCE Wilkes Universe Soccer trip is cultural experience for Wilkes coach Watching this summer as the Czech Republic played Russia in the European Cup semifinals. Wilkes women's soccer and softball coach Kevin Vrabel discovered that sports, like music, can be a universal lan­ guage. Vrabel was a guest coach travelling with a group of players, parents and coaches on a soccer and sightseeing trip to the Czech Republic. Having accepted an invitation to watch the televised event at the home of a Czechoslovakian soccer coach, the team found themselves fumbling through phrase books to communi­ cate with their hosts. "Nobody in their family spoke English, but the common bond was soccer," Vrabel recalls. "When we saw something in the game that we could appreciate, everybody collectively would yell 'YEAH!'" It was one of many things Vrabel and the 15 young players learned during the two-week trip organized by the Soca Organization of Charlottesville and Albemarle JVa.j, a league comprising 3,000 players aged 6 to 30. VILEMOV Vrabel was invited by the organiza­ tions president, a longtime friend. The 12 and 13 year-old players he accompanied had spent more than a year raising funds toward the trip, a soccer-based cultural journey planned by their parents. Landing in Prague, the group boarded a bus owned by members of the soccer club of Vilemov, a small village of 1,000 people two hours southeast of the city. Their interpreter was a local math and physics teacher and the only person in the enclave who speaks English. The group was housed at Castle Malaymov, a large mansion owned by Polish-Americans from Charlottesville. The group was the first athletic delegation to stay at the manor, which the family plans to develop into a center where college students can pursue central European studies. The American team played eight soccer games, finishing the tour with a record of 5-2-1. Vrabel says he was pleased that the team achieved a winning record even though they were playing teams that were bigger, faster, stronger and technically more sound. "Our kids did really well," he says. "We played Praha Juniors—the Prague league champs—and beat them, even though they were proba­ bly better soccer players. "It was sort of like that American stereotype—we're the underdogs and we're just going to keep running at you. Our kids had worked hard to get there—shoveling snow, cutting grass, washing cars for a year and a half— so there was a little extra incentive. And that made a difference in most of the games." But the young players took away much more than soccer triumphs, Vrabel says. Their initial preteen desires—a longing for McDonalds and convenience stores—quickly gave way to the reality of being in a foreign land and not speaking the language. Vrabel believes this was a humbling experience forthem, but one that will make them more appre­ ciative of life in the United States. "It was really interesting to see how introspective they could be," Vrabel says. "They found some positive things about it and some things they didn't like." Vrabel himself had an eye-opening cultural experience. During the stay he had the opportunity to visit the homeland of his Slovakian ancestors, a small town that bears his name. He and the interpreter drove five hours to Vrable, a Slovakian town of about 9,000 people. Crossing from the Czech Republic into Slovakia, Vrabel noticed a vast difference in the coun­ tryside. a difference also reflected in its people. "1 was treated like the prodigal son as soon it was brought to attention that I was American Vrabel who had come looking for my ancestors. It was like the town hall shut down They went just nuts for me." These lessons in cross-cultural friendship are ones that he will carry forever. Vrabel says. Both he and his players brought home a feeling of camaraderie—and reverence—that can't be learned from textbooks. "Sometimes Americans feel that people should adjust to us if they come into our country by speaking our language—I felt some of those things while in the Czech Republic. I was embarrassed that I didn't know more about their language and more about their culture." It makes you realize that it's a huge world out there and being American and speaking English is lust a little sliver of it." Boston Maratfion Surgery leads alumnus to marathon achievement Every Boston Marathon has a defining story­ line, be it elation, heartbreak or frustration. The pace and distance and yes, the mental taxation will break the strongest of runners. For Dr. John Senatore '79 just being part of the centennial renewal of America's greatest footrace was the fulfillment of a life-long dream. Born with an irregular heartbeat, he had believed it to be physi­ cally impossible. Then, while scanning televi­ sion, he happened upon a story about a new pro­ cedure that would cor­ rect the condition, which was once thought to be controlled only by med­ ication. affairs of the heart Senatore, 39, was a sprinter during his high school years in Weston, Massachusetts, but that was the extent of his run­ ning capacity. His heart would run away with itself when he asked it to do more. Even a class­ room exam in school, a form of cerebral yet sedentary competition, would accelerate his heartbeat. If he sat down too quickly, the problem would be there. A heavy dinner instigated the same runaway condition. Involvement in long­ distance running was out of the question. But thanks to surgery he underwent in 1992, Senatore was able to take part in one of the world's epic marathons. Before, he could only be a spectator This year, he was a participant. "Irregular heartbeats have bothered untold thousands,” Senatore says. "The discomfort makes you feel as if someone is sitting on Dr. Joftii Senatore pauses for a pfeto <K (lie top of Hedrtfreat Hid. By John Steadman Tlii’ Balfinwre Sun 17 �PROFILE Wilkes Universe your chest. You give yourself a carotid neck massage, even splash cold water in your face, to try' to ease the heart­ beat." 66 Growing ifp, I never considered there’d be a remote chance that I’d be able memories of all those races I watched have never faded. Jo/ih Senatore '79 RELIEF THROUGH SURGERY His condition has changed drastically thanks to a new proce­ dure perfected at Johns Hopkins Hospital. The surgery, performed by Dr. Thomas Guarnieri, involved inserting a catheter to bring about an accessory' pathway to the heart which allows the organ to attain its normal rhythm. Senatore expounds enthusiastically on the result. "After what was then new surgical option for patients, I was run­ ning within six weeks. I was able to sustain the pressure associated with distance running and found a stamina 1 never had before." Now Senatore is a prized patient. His regu­ lar training program totals about 35 miles per week. He’s twice completed the New York City Marathon, then went on to achieve what was once considered an impossible goal. The Boston Marathon represents a profound personal meaning for Senatore. As a child, he grew up watching the event. It was a family tra­ dition, the thing to do. His parents would take him to a location near the halfway point to enjoy the highlight of the Patriots' Day holiday— the historic road race from Hopkinton to Boston, a route of 26 miles, 385 yards, through such pleasant-sounding but punishing check­ points as Framingham, Natick, Wellesley, Auburndale, then to Heartbreak Hill, Brighton, Brookline and, finally, the finish line. "Just to do it and be a part of it means so much," he says. "Growing up, 1 never considered there'd be a remote chance that at 39, or any age, I'd be able to quali­ fy. The memories of all those races I watched have never faded." BOSTON: A HAPPY HOMECOMING From practicing podia­ try in Baltimore to returning home to Boston more than 30 18 years later to run in the grueling, road-pounding effort is an accomplish­ ment in itself. After graduating from Wilkes with a bachelor's degree in Biology, Senatore went on to California College of Podiatry and later estab­ lished a practice in Baltimore. He now resides in Glen Arm, Md., operates two offices and is on the staff of the Union Memorial Hospital's Sports Medicine Center. His profession is an ideal fit with his avocation, allowing him to treat his own marathon-induced foot problems and not the bottom of Heartbreak even send himself a bill. Hill," he says. It's an unnatural under­ Senatore knew he was­ taking, to ask the n't about to chal­ legs and lenge the body to Boston carry you Marathon 26 miles I leaders, but and, don't I was elated forget the ’ to be 385 yards. among the Boston Marathon’ Baltimore But Boston was a happy Road Runners homecoming for club raising funds for the Senatore, whose wife, 3American Liver year-old son, mother, sis­ Foundation. And being ters, brothers and old involved with 40,000 other neighborhood friends runners in this momen­ were there to watch him tous 100th gala provides among the crowd of run­ an incalculable dimen­ ners. "They all met me at sion of enthusiasm. .Si I □ □ Senators poses before the start of the race in Hopkinton. Completing the Boston Marathon means more than he can put into words. In a way, he's climbed a mountain he never thought he would have a chance to chal­ lenge. The 100th running was a spectacular event. But for Dr. John Senatore, it was a family reunion, a homecoming and the realization of how far medical science has allowed him to run. Reprinted with permission from The Baltimore Sun, April 7. 1996 edition. Steadman is a spans columnist. 19 �Wilkes Universe ALUMNI IN SPORTS Kevin Gryboski '95 Wilkes baseball star pitches in the minors Every little boy that plays baseball dreams of some­ day being given a chance to play the game he so loves as a professional. For Kerin Gryboski 95, that dream has come true. Gryboski recently fin­ ished his second season with the Seattle Mariners organization pitching for the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers, a Class A team that lost in the champi­ onship series to the Western .Michigan Whitecaps. His first year in the organization, right out of Wilkes, was spent in Everett. Washington playing for the Everett Aqua Sox in the Rookie League. But while playing the game for pay is fun. iife in the minors is far from glamorous. “It is not an easy lifestyle.” says Gryboski. “You have to get up early to go on read trips, ail of which are by bus. We had a few trips during the year in which we rode the bus for eight hours, got there, played a game, and then Gryboski, center, meets Seattle Mariner stars Alex Rodriquez and Ken Griffey. went to eat fast food. That is probably the toughest part of life in the minors." “When we play at home things are a little easier,” Gryboski adds. ”1 share an apartment with several of my teammates and we take turns cleaning and cooking." A DEPENDABLE STARTER The Timber Rattlers are a Midwest League team based in Appleton, Wisconsin, a town of approximately 60,000 peo­ ple 20 miles south of Green Bay. The team plays in a stadium that opened just two years ago. According to Gryboski. many of the stadiums in the Midwest League are new and compare favor­ ably to Northeastern Pennsylvania's Lackawanna County Stadium. “The team we lost to in the finals. Western Michigan. averaged more than 13,000 fans a game in a brand new park." Gryboski explains. "It is a first class facility." Gryboski began this past season with the Timber Rattlers as a "closer." someone brought in to pitch when the game is on the line. He ended the year, though, as one of the team's most dependable starting pitchers. “I was all set to start the season in Lancaster. California, but after cuts were made at the major league level, it filtered down to me and I was sent to Wisconsin," says the 6'5" Gryboski. "It was cold and snowy and I struggled in the early going. Once they moved me into the starting rota­ tion. I got hot and went into the all-star break 6-0 as a starter." "In the playoffs I was pitching every third day and ended with a record of 2-1 and a 1.89 ERA." Gryboski says. "For the regular sea- By Tom McGuire ‘85 Sports Information Director son 1 was 10-5 with one save and a 4.74 ERA.” A power pitcher during his years at Wilkes, Gryboski struck out 100 in 138 innings of work this sea­ son for the Timber Rattlers. Gryboski was a four-year starter for the Colonels and helped the team to the 1994 MAC Baseball championship. He fin­ ished his college career with an 18-13 record, a 2.62 ERA and 195 strike­ outs in 205 innings. His 22 complete games are a Wilkes record. And while many of his teammates came from bigger schools, the fact that Gryboski played for a Division 111 school made no difference in the way he approached his career as a professional. "Yes. there is some dif­ ference from Division 1 to Division III, but you still need to be able to throw the ball over the plate, no matter where you are playing." While his numbers were good, Now Trading at Card Sflows... Gryboski says the Seattle Mariners want him to fur­ ther improve. That means there is no rest in the off season. "Seattle gives each play­ er a booklet and a video on weight training and running." says Gryboski whose brother, Brian, is a starter on Wilkes's men's basketball team this sea­ son. "I am to lift weights four times a week and run on the other three days. One of my coaches from Wisconsin is calling me once a month to check on my progress. They don't want me throwing until January when I will get ready for spring training." HOLDING ALL THE CARDS While Seattle is mindful of Gryboski's pitching, his agent is looking out for his business interests. “My agent (who is asso­ ciated with NBA star Charles Barkley's agent) usually calls me once a week to check and see how I am doing," says Gryboski. "He lines up endorsements for me, like the one I have with Rawlings. He also arranges for my appear­ ance at card shows in Wisconsi n during the season." Yes' that's right, the former s':ar hurler for the Kevin Gryboski Colonels has his own baseball card. "It was strange seeing my face on a baseball card because as a kid I was a collector," says Gryboski. "And now for someone to ask me to autograph my card is very strange." Another exciting event for Gryboski was a recent meeting with Seattle Mariner stars Ken Griffey and Alex Rodriquez when they came to town this summer. "The Mariners play each one of their minor league teams and when they came to Appleton I got a chance to meet both Ken and Alex,” says Gryboski. "The game couldn't be played because of some heavy rains, but the play­ ers did hang around and sign autographs." GETTING TO THE SHOW Ultimately Gryboski would like to make it to the major leagues, but is realistic about his chances. “The chances of anyone making to the big leagues is I in 1000. but at least 1 have the opportunity to pursue this dream.' says Gryboski. "Not many peo­ ple who play baseball are ever given this kind of opportunity, 1 hope my dream will be fulfilled. 21 �Wilkes Universe HOMECOMING Jennifer Bullock named assistant director in Wilkes Alumni Office Jennifer Bullock has been named assistant director of alumni at Wilkes. In this alumni relations position, she will coordinate alumni events, such as Homecoming and Reunion weekends and expand the alumni in admissions, volun­ teer development, senior gift, and student alumni pro­ Jennifer grams. She also is charged with developing the student alumni association and re-establishing regional alumni chapters, beginning in Philadelphia, New York and Washington D.C. A 1994 cum laude graduate of Lebanon Valley College, Annville. Pa.. Bullock earned a bachelor's degree in English with a concentration in com­ munications. She brings several years experience to the position, having served an internship in Lebanon Valley's departments of development and alumni programs as an undergrad­ uate. She also worked for Bullock three years as a student caller for the school's annual fund cam­ paign. working her way up to phonathon supervisor during her senior year. After graduation, Bullock returned to the Wyoming Valley and accepted a position as a billing specialist for Events Calendar January 16, 1997 Winter Commencement Ceremony Arnaud C. Marts Center, Wilkes campus January 25, 1997 Wilkes vs. Scranton Basketball Reception 5-8 p.m. Arnaud C. Marts Center. Wilkes campus February 7, 1997 Alumni President's Breakfast Westmoreland Club S. Franklin Street, Wilkes-Barre May 10, 1997 Alumni Athletics Hall of Fame Dinner Arnaud C. Marts Center. Wilkes campus May 17, 1997 Spring Commencement Ceremony June 13, 1997 Alumni President's Breakfast Westmoreland Club S. Franklin Street. Wilkes-Barre September 13, 1997 Alumni Association Board Meeting February 8, 1997 Alumni Association Board Meeting Weckesser Hall, Wilkes campus October 17-19, 1997 50th Annual Homecoming April 5, 1997 Alumni Association Board Meeting Weckesser Hall, Wilkes campus November 14, 1997 Alumni President's Breakfast Westmoreland Club S. Franklin Street, Wilkes-Barre Alumni Association Scholarship Dinner Dance Westmoreland Club S. Franklin Street, Wilkes-Barre May 2-4, 1997 Reunion Weekend 22 November 15, 1997 Alumni Association Board Meeting Annual Open Meeting Weckesser Hall. Wilkes campus The Times Leader newspaper, WilkesBarre. Bullock believes she's found her niche in college advancement. "It's great to interact with students and alumni. It's important to culti­ vate them into becoming active with the University," she says. Bullock plans to pursue a masters degree at Wilkes beginning next fall. "1 love working at Wilkes," Bullock says. "It s a very exciting place to be, it seems like the University is always on the edge of something new.” Bullock replaces Robert Wachowski, who left the University for a teaching position in August. —Patty Meadus '97 Scholarship Dinner Dance will be April 5 All alumni are invited to the third annual Alumni Association Scholarship Dinner Dance, which will be held Saturday April 5. 1997 at the Westmoreland Club, Wilkes-Barre. Proceeds from the event are applied to a scholarship fund estab­ lished for children of alumni. This year's event is being chaired by Thomas ('77) and Elizabeth Ward ‘72. Wilkes senior Paula Van Fossen is serving as student co-chair. Fiftieth Homecoming Celebration in 1997 Wilkes University Alumni ” w»00100 Pennsylvania JSjj Alumni Association offers custom plates The Wilkes University Alumni ^Association is offering specialized Pennsylvania license plates embla­ zoned with the Wilkes University emblem. Nearly 200 alumni and friends of the University have applied for the plates so far. The Alumni Association must receive 300 forms before an order can be placed with Penn DOT. Issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), the special organization plates are blue and gold and include the words "Wilkes University Alumni.” Plates are available for Pennsylvania registered passenger cars, motor homes and trucks with a gross weight of less than 9,000 pounds. Motorcycles and trailers do not qualify, and personalized plates are not available. A one-time fee of $20 is charged for each plate. This fee is separate from annual registra­ tion fees. To receive an application form, contact the Alumni Office. The Alumni Association Board of Directors are making plans for the University's 50th Annual Homecoming Celebration, which is scheduled for the weekend of October 17-19, 1997. A number of events are being planned, including an all-class dor­ mitory and club reunion. For more information, or to help plan a specific event, call the Alumni Office. For further information on any Alumni activities, contact the Wilkes University Alumni Office: Top teacher receives Farley award at August Commencement ceremony ■ First grade teacher Merri J. Earl '58, has received many awards, including the nation s top honor for science and math teachers. But to hear her speak, its apparent that her greatest reward comes from the children she sees every day. Remember that children are our most precious resources." says Earl. "Encourage them to explore. Listen to their stories. Explore their discoveries. And above all, enjoy their innocence." In August, Earl received yet another honor in the form of Wilkes's Eugene S. Farley Memorial Alumni Award, which is named for Wilkes's first president, who devoted more than three decades to the advancement of the school. The award is given annually to an alumnus or alumna of any degree pro­ gram who epitomizes the characteristics of an educated person. Speaking at the ceremony, Earl said she was flattered to receive an honor which carries the name of a man held in such high esteem among her Wilkes classmates. "We were in awe of him,” she said of Farley. Earl, a first grade teacher at John R. Harshaw Primary School, Binghamton, N.Y., was awarded a 1995 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science and Mathematics Teaching. It is the J nation’s highest such award, bestowed to only 216 kinder­ garten through 12th grade science and math teachers nationwide. (717) 831-4130 or (800) WILKES-U, ext. 4130 Wilkes University P.O. Box 1 ] 1 Wilkes-Barre PA, 18766 F<Ut: (717) 831-4973 e-mail: alui"ail&colonel.esc.wilkes.edu William Goldsworthy '76, president of the Alumni Association presents the Eugene S. Farley Memorial Alumni Au’anl to Merri I. Earl '58. In 1996, Earl was runner-up position for the National Teacher Training Institute's Teacher of the Year Award, and in 1993 she was named the New York State English Council's Teacher of Excellence. Earl is active in many professional organizations, including the National Councils of Teachers of Mathematics and of English, the Associations of Mathematics Teachers of New York State and of the Southern Tier, the New York State Reading Council, the New York State Reading Association, the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, the New York State Association for the Education of Young Children, the Parent Teacher Association, and Phi Delta Kappa. In her position at John R. Harshaw. Earl chairs the math committee and coordinates a parent bi-monthly dis­ cussion group. She is also involved with the Site Based Council. Staff Development Task Force, Assessment Task Force and Parent Volunteer Committee. Earl holds a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary' education from Wilkes and an Master's of Arts degree in reading from S.U.C at Cortland. New �Wilkes Universe AFTERTHOUGHTS Hot Under the Collar How's the weather up there? By Dr. Anthony Liuzzo Associate Professor of Economics 4 As an economist. I am often asked to predict rates of interest, inflation­ ary' expectations, retail sales, and trade deficits. So, I am not totally unacquainted with how difficult it is to forecast with reasonable accuracy, and I know the feeling of embarrass­ ment associated with being proved incorrect. But, how is it that meteorologists can be so wrong, so frequently, and never admit to their mistakes? Why does it rain whenever I wash my car, and why does the sun shine upon me as 1 tote my umbrella? I have never really comprehended the difference between a low and a high, and I invariably get the weather trivia ques­ tion wrong. Reports of the wind chill factor in the winter simply induce in me an increased level of shivering, and data relating to the temperature/humidity index in the summer evoke additional beads of perspira­ tion upon my brow. I wish they would hear my plea to cease reports on barometric pressure indices, and times of high and low tides, for they can rest assured that in no way do I plan my day around these events. I do not care about heat waves in the South, water short­ ages in the West, or deep freezes in the North. Similarly. 1 do not enjoy video clips of automobiles spinning out of control on ice-slicked high­ ways: nor bellicose children engaging in snowball warfare on days of school cancellations; nor, in this age of political correctness, depictions of swimsuit-clad females enjoying West Coast beaches. Nevertheless, I continue to be a weather junkie, clicking my remote control unit incessantly so that I can catch each network's affiliate's fiveday forecast. In this vein, I recently conducted a survey, in order to test the three major networks' powers of prediction. 1 must point out that the survey was not scientific, in that I did not take a random sample, nor did I measure my results for validity or reliability. I did not test for predictions of pre­ cipitation, nor the forms that such would take, since the weather fore­ casters insisted upon only providing ranges (forecasting, for example, four to twelve inches of snow). Furthermore. I ignored all references to comments such as "partly cloudy," "some sun," "mostly fair," and “could be some precip," since, in my hum­ ble, lay person's judgment, these descriptions are all the same. 1 sim­ ply took note of the forecasts for the high temperature for a period of sev­ eral days, and compared these to the actual temperatures, as the networks themselves reported. Network One was off consistently by six degrees, irrespective of how far into the future they predicted. Network Two erred by only three degrees, at least for the next day's weather—but as they attempted to go further into the future, they too ran afoul by six degrees. Network Three missed the mark by five degrees for the next day's weather, seven degrees for two days into the future, six degrees for three days, and only five degrees for four days. Presumably being farsighted offers some assistance in forecasting. My own method of weather predic­ tion is quite simple. I use no comput­ ers, do not stay in touch with the National Weather Service, and do not even possess a weather vane. I sim­ ply predict that the high temperature for tomorrow will be identical to that of today. Using this technique, I was off by an average of only five degrees for the period in question. And that's not too shabby—even for an economist. Liuzzo is associate professor of Business and Economics. He is the proud owner of six umbrellas. Launch riEISa Opportunity Your donations to Wilkes take students to places they never dreamed possible. Just ask senior Ann Marie Blasick. A mechanical engineering major, Blasick was among a select group of students accepted into NASA's Langley Research Summer Scholars Program. She spent last summer in Hampton, Virginia working on a nozzle to be used in the rockets of reusable launch vehicles. But she couldn't have gotten there were it not for the generosity of the Sorber family. The Merritt W. and Marjory R. Sorber Scholarship was established with gifts from the couple's children to help students who maintain an outstanding academic record. Preference is given to graduates of Northwest High School, where the late Merritt W. Sorber served as principal for many years. Having graduated from Northwest at the top of her class in 1993, Blasick was a perfect match. 'When you receive a scholarship, it's easy to think 'it's just money," says Blasick. "But it means more. I'm trying to give enough back so that they get a return on their investment." In Blasick, the Sorbers have a sound investment indeed. A Dean's List student and active student leader, she serves as record­ ing secretary for the Wilkes Student Government Association and a member of the Student Alumni and Academic Standards Committees. Blasick is treasurer of the Wilkes Chapter of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and was the 1994-95 secretary/treasurer of the Society of Women Engineers. She is also a member of the Anthracite Region Student 5 Chapter of the American Society for Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers and Sigma Pi Sigma, the National Honor Society for Physics students. in addition to the Sorber scholarship, she has received numerous other awards, including the > National Science Scholar ' Award and the National Society of Professional Engineers Education Foundation Luzerne County Chapter Scholarship. Blasick says she has become comfortable in these leadership roles largely because of the encouragement of her professors. 'I can honestly say that Wilkes is a place where I have never felt forgot­ ten,' says Blasick. 'I have had profes­ sors who have organized Sunday softball games, taken us on overnight field trips and given out their home phone numbers in case we become confused late in the night.' These are opportunities she believes she would have missed at a larger school. And she extends her gratitude to the scholarship donors who made it possible. 'I was able to come to Wilkes solely because of scholarship money. There was no way I could have attend­ ed a private school without financial help.' And no way she could have made it to NASA, either. 'At NASA, they didn't treat me like I was this inept student. 1 was able to contribute some­ thing. That's a great feeling.' And a feeling to be shared by the Sorbers, who have helped her get off the ground. 7 was able to come to Wilkes solely because of scholarship money. There was no way I could have attended a private school without financial help." Ann Marie Blasick �Collegetown, U.S.A. Community leaders are betting that Greater Wilkes-Barre's five institutions of higher learning—Wilkes University, King's College, College Misericordia, Luzerne County Community College and Penn State University at 4 Lehman— hold the key to economic prosperity in the city. LUZERNE © w I L K E S UNIVERSE Wilkes University Wilkes-Barre, PA 18766 ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED James P Berg Library If this magazine Is addressed to a graduate who no longer maintains a residence at your home, please tear off the mailing label and mall It, with the corrected address, to the Alumni Office. NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 355 WILKES-BARRE, PA � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Wilkes Alumni Magazine, 1947-present Subject The topic of the resource Alumni Relations Description An account of the resource <p>An archive of Wilkes University Magazine, from 1947-present. The magazine went through various names including <em>Wilkes Alumnus</em>, <em>Wilkes Quarterly,</em> <em>Wilkes Universe</em>, and the current title, <em>Wilkes Magazine</em>. Some editions for the <em>Wilkes Universe</em>, will have multiple issues within the file record. Our holdings may be missing editions for certain years due to having no physical copy within the collection. </p> Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Wilkes University Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Wilkes University Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Wilkes University Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1947-present Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Wilkes Universe 1996 Subject The topic of the resource Alumni Relations Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Marketing and Communications Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource PDF Type The nature or genre of the resource Magazine https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/a335475cd2d89d99b151566571b604f2.tif e733e9976977639813124167ec3e91c6 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Community Service Photographs, 1996 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 1996commserv191.tif Title A name given to the resource group of students holding item Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Marketing Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource TIF Type The nature or genre of the resource Photograph Subject The topic of the resource Wilkes University; Students Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Wilkes University retains copyright of this image. https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/95deb03ffc8e13f17b274ccf8325ef5f.tif ea767199103405ab727d1d6dda54ee84 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Community Service Photographs, 1996 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 1996commserv190.tif Title A name given to the resource female students standing together Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Marketing Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource TIF Type The nature or genre of the resource Photograph Subject The topic of the resource Wilkes University; Students Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Wilkes University retains copyright of this image. https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/267d7bc8e1e2d7344be71cb8a57a1d29.tif 4ca6a745da1dbfe283bff8daaa62a304 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Community Service Photographs, 1996 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 1996commserv189.tif Title A name given to the resource male and female student on couch Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Marketing Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource TIF Type The nature or genre of the resource Photograph Subject The topic of the resource Wilkes University; Students Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Wilkes University retains copyright of this image. https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/046089a7108d3d597f9924c9ba54cdf2.tif 7966af2bcba1208c850d78cc227c34fc Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Community Service Photographs, 1996 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 1996commserv188.tif Title A name given to the resource female students on mattresses Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Marketing Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource TIF Type The nature or genre of the resource Photograph Subject The topic of the resource Wilkes University; Students Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Wilkes University retains copyright of this image. https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/abd36d2d3e0428abf0a79b9e16107837.tif 7d8dc3d2eb879635d1297bde9db4d56b Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Community Service Photographs, 1996 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 1996commserv187.tif Title A name given to the resource male and female student in lodge Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Marketing Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource TIF Type The nature or genre of the resource Photograph Subject The topic of the resource Wilkes University; Students Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Wilkes University retains copyright of this image. https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/71e81c8118a4b07961fc92b0a27106b6.tif 66eaea318b8afecaebe475e2c126920f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Community Service Photographs, 1996 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 1996commserv186.tif Title A name given to the resource female student in woods Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Marketing Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource TIF Type The nature or genre of the resource Photograph Subject The topic of the resource Wilkes University; Outdoors Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Wilkes University retains copyright of this image. https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/6dc9f7e187bbcf984bdd22f7b4e3d0c7.tif 0c75cce62a78f1442afd269e25ffd9cf Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Community Service Photographs, 1996 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 1996commserv185.tif Title A name given to the resource female student sitting on a rock Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Marketing Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource TIF Type The nature or genre of the resource Photograph Subject The topic of the resource Wilkes University; Outdoors Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Wilkes University retains copyright of this image. https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/74c589f9fb527d45bb79683f6210d2d0.tif 57b8a8f2a53fd921ef6bdac09afa144f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Community Service Photographs, 1996 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 1996commserv184.tif Title A name given to the resource three students in woods Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Marketing Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource TIF Type The nature or genre of the resource Photograph Subject The topic of the resource Wilkes University; Outdoors Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Wilkes University retains copyright of this image. https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/da004fedb4e4ee0ceeb22a74311a6db3.tif 2e7d27345a9762a4cb24ed2630ba3336 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Community Service Photographs, 1996 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 1996commserv183.tif Title A name given to the resource students walking by lake Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Marketing Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource TIF Type The nature or genre of the resource Photograph Subject The topic of the resource Wilkes University; Outdoors Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Wilkes University retains copyright of this image. https://omeka.wilkes.edu/omeka/files/original/9bf8e068ba6cb5b587289d4471d5f511.tif 5d8e7680103e298a8b3b1eaf0a311a6a Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Community Service Photographs, 1996 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context 1996commserv182.tif Title A name given to the resource two students in the woods Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Marketing Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource TIF Type The nature or genre of the resource Photograph Subject The topic of the resource Wilkes University; Students Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Wilkes University retains copyright of this image.