MIKE REED MEET Penn College's new president - Pennsylvania College of Technology
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Fall 2022
®
MEET
MIKE
REED
Penn College’s
new president
SEE PAGE 8
16 A challenging twist on hands-on ed 22 Cause for celebration 32 How to journal
Contents
Penn College Magazine, a publication of Pennsylvania College
of Technology, is dedicated to sharing the educational development,
goals and achievements of Penn College students, employees and
degrees that work.
VOLUME 31 NUMBER 2 ON THE COVER
alumni with one another and with the greater community.
Visit Penn College Magazine online at magazine.pct.edu Michael J. Reed, who began
his duties as president of
EDITOR PENN COLLEGE MAGAZINE
Jennifer A. Cline ADVISORY COMMITTEE 7 Pennsylvania College of
Nicholas D. Biddle ’07 Technology on July 1, leads a
CONTRIBUTING
EDITORS
graphic designer, web developer
Biddle Studios and Sage Age Strategies
High-stakes travel session on innovation during
the annual Summer Teaching
Matt Blymier Joshua Bonner ’03, ’14
Soccer alumna Hailee Hartman ’19, Penn
Institute for the college’s
Cindy Davis Meixel executive director of marketing College’s all-team leader in goals, uses the
faculty. Learn more about
Tom Speicher Mount Saint Mary’s University same mindset she used in the game to adapt
Tom Wilson Reed on Page 8.
L. Lee Janssen ’82 to the constant newness of travel nursing.
Joseph S. Yoder editor-in-chief, retired
The Williamsport Sun-Gazette
ISSUE DESIGNER
8
Lana K. Muthler ’70
Sarah K. Patterson ’05 managing editor
The Express, Lock Haven
Meet Mike Reed
DESIGN & DIGITAL
PRODUCTION Julie Stellfox ’06
Ken Engel assistant director of media relations
Lock Haven University On July 1, Reed began his duties as the
Larry D. Kauffman institution’s eighth president. Penn College
Tina M. Miller ’03 Robert O. Rolley ’83
publisher Magazine’s Tom Speicher sat down with
Deborah K. Peters ’97 The Express, Lock Haven Reed to learn about his path to Penn
and The Williamsport Sun-Gazette
WEB DESIGN College and his goals for its future.
Joseph Tertel ’02
Phillip C. Warner ’06
manager, eCommerce Marketing
12
CONTRIBUTING
Rite Aid
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Blazing the collegiate trail
Jennifer A. Cline PENN COLLEGE MEMBERS
Larry D. Kauffman Barbara A. Danko
Kollin G. Kisner retired director of alumni relations With supportive Penn College staff in their
Cindy Davis Meixel Ashlee E. Massey corner, first-generation college students thrive.
Tom Speicher vice president of public relations attention, alumni
Tom Wilson Student Government Association
Other photos as credited
Share your story and catch
Sandra Lakey
retired faculty up with classmates online at
speech communication and composition magazine.pct.edu/cn
Brad L. Nason
retired faculty
16
mass communications go paperless
Up for the challenge
To receive an email when
Michael J. Reed, Ed.D. Opened for Fall 2021, the Fish Real
PRESIDENT
we publish new editions at
Estate Leadership Challenge Course
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team-building adventures on the south
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PUSHING THE LIMITS
22 Subscription in the subject.
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Because of you … printed Penn College Magazine.
A celebration of the legacy of
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email magazine@pct.edu Class Notes 24
Learn more about the track at magazine.pct.edu/testtrack and
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more about the team at www.pct.edu/baja. Photographic Memory 31
Penn College ®, Future Made by Hand ® and degrees that work ®
Expert Tips
are registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
32
CAMPUS NEWS CAMPUS NEWS
‘Ripple effect’ sparks
collaborative sculpture College appoints experienced educator, administrator as provost
Neslihan “Nesli” Alp began her duties as vice president for academic affairs and provost, the
Internationally known welding
highest-ranking academic officer at the institution, on Aug. 1.
artist Rae Ripple, encouraged
by Penn College student Skyler Alp succeeds Michael J. Reed, who became the college’s new president on July 1, following the
R. Graver to drop by campus, retirement of Davie Jane Gilmour. (Read more about Reed on Page 8.)
honored that invitation with an Alp had been at Indiana State University since 2018, where she served as dean and professor for
inspiring daylong visit. the 2,000-student College of Technology. Previously, she served in a variety of administration and
Ripple’s visit included a “Live With Rae” presentation in faculty roles at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga for 19 years, most recently as associate
the Klump Academic Center Auditorium, followed by a dean of academic affairs and UC Foundation professor.
demonstration in the welding lab, where Ripple put her Her higher-education experience also includes developing and teaching more than 20
renowned stamp on a 200-pound, 9-foot-long motorcycle undergraduate and graduate courses.
sculpture built by members of the college’s American
Alp holds a doctorate in engineering management from the Missouri University of Science
Welding Society student chapter.
and Technology and a Master of Science in industrial engineering and a Bachelor of Science in
Ripple, a social media star, has appeared on “Metal Shop engineering management, both from Istanbul Technical University, Turkey. She also earned a
Masters” and “Monster Garage,” and has been published certificate in management and leadership in education from Harvard Graduate School of Education.
in Welder magazine.
Partnership with Lenfest Foundation yields first graduate Electrical students serve area nonprofits
A building construction technology student is the first graduate in Penn College’s alliance Penn College’s commitment to hands-on education aided
with The Brook J. Lenfest Foundation Inc., which funded a $1.8 million scholarship program area nonprofit organizations, as two sections of electrical
for underserved populations in southeastern Pennsylvania. The distinction belongs construction students contributed nearly 400 hours of work,
to Isaiah S. Robinson, of Philadelphia, who received an associate degree in building saving the YWCA, Sojourner Truth Ministries and the Avis
construction technology in May and began working in the field the following week. Area Recreation Association labor expenses.
Robinson said exposure to multiple areas of construction allowed him to fine-tune “Students – as a result of this course – receive a true sense
his focus. of the types of jobs and challenges they will encounter as
“Concrete stuck out to me the most, and I grew to embrace it. I never thought about graduates,” said Joseph R. Raup, instructor of the field-
having a career in concrete prior to attending college or this class. This opened the door experience course. “We’re dealing with real jobs for real
for me to have a paid summer internship at Forcine Concrete and Construction Co.,” he clients with real deadlines.”
said. “I am proud to say that, upon graduating, I have accepted a full-time position with At the YWCA in Williamsport, the students replaced
this company. I look forward to my future endeavors. Thanks, PCT, for all that you have fluorescent lights with LED lights and removed wiring no
done to get me to this awesome career opportunity!” longer in use. A few blocks away, they spent more than 240
Jon A. Good, of Emporium, wires an outlet in a house owned
hours rewiring a house owned by Sojourner Truth Ministries.
by Sojourner Truth Ministries in Williamsport. Good was
The Carl W. Kephart baseball complex in Avis needed one of 14 electrical construction students who served area
upgraded wiring, light fixtures and an electrical panel. nonprofit organizations in the Construction Lab IV: Practical
Commission reaffirms college’s accreditation Experience course.
The students also completed work for the college community:
installing circuits and transfer switches in labs at the
In June, the Middle States Commission on Higher Education reaffirmed accreditation for
Pennsylvania College of Technology.
Schneebeli Earth Science Center, outlets and circuits in the Find complete
Concrete Masonry Building, and panels and circuits at the
articles on PCToday
Every eight years, colleges and universities must reapply for Middle States accreditation. Clean Energy Center Lab.
To find more comprehensive
The evaluation includes an extensive self-study and a visit by a team of external evaluators that reads the college’s self-study
versions of the articles
report; examines documents and other information that serve as evidence that the college meets the seven standards for in Campus News – and
accreditation; speaks to students, faculty, staff and administrators; and makes a recommendation about whether to reaccredit. to read other news stories
Evaluators found that the college met all standards for accreditation and requirements of affiliation, and the team had no about Penn College –
visit PCToday, the college’s
recommendations or requirements for the college to fulfill.
news-and-information website,
The college has held Middle States accreditation since 1970. at pctoday.pct.edu
2 Penn College Magazine Fall 2022 3
CAMPUS NEWS PENN COLLEGE FAMILY
BRIDAL PATH LEADS
BACK TO CAMPUS
Pennsylvania College of Technology’s Schneebeli Earth
Science Center holds such a special place for Elizabeth
M. Getchen that, when it came time to arrange her
wedding flowers, no other venue could come close to
honoring the occasion.
Getchen holds associate degrees in floral design/interior
plantscape (2007) and ornamental horticulture: landscape
technology emphasis (2009) – and obtained permission
to return to the Allenwood-area campus in advance of
her nuptials.
She married Ian J. Mowatt on May 21 near Salladasburg.
Army ROTC cadets receive commissions
“When it was time for me to graduate (from South
Seven graduating Army ROTC cadets were commissioned as second lieutenants during a ceremony for the Williamsport Area Jr./Sr.) high school and start college,
Bald Eagle Battalion. From left: Joseph L. Elinski, active duty, infantry branch; Jared R. Ward, Army Reserve, like most people, I had no clue what I wanted to do. Also,
ordnance branch; Anthony J. Marturano, Army National Guard, ordnance branch; Carolyn R. Strickland, vice my dad was not well, and I needed to be close to home to
president for enrollment management and associate provost; Davie Jane Gilmour, then-college president; help him,” Getchen explained.
Samuel T. Van Dermark, Army Reserve, ordnance branch; Blake T. Blodgett, active duty, infantry branch; and She flipped through the Penn College catalog “what
Ryan A. Godard, Army National Guard, finance branch. Aleah M. Emlet (not available for photo) earned a seemed a million times.”
commission in the Army Reserve, quartermaster branch.
“I am so thankful that I went with the floral design program.
The ESC is just what I needed in my life. Who else can go
to college and be outside all day long?” Getchen said.
First group of four-year mechatronics She fondly recalls horticulture faculty members Dennis
apprentices graduates E. and Christine A. Fink, and Dennis P. Skinner, for their
student-centered passion and empathy. Dennis Fink, the
college’s 1997 Master Teacher, retired in 2012 and passed
The first cohort of Penn College’s four-year registered
away the following year; his wife was a part-time instructor.
apprenticeship in mechatronics graduated in 2022.
Skinner retired in 2019.
In order to successfully graduate from the full mechatronics
“Like I mentioned, my father was ill, so I had missed a lot of
program, the nine apprentices completed four one-year
class to take him to doctors’ appointments, but they were
modules: mechanical components, industrial electricity,
understanding,” she said. “Mr. Skinner was great, always
fluid power and programmable logic controllers.
having so much fun in his classes and labs.”
Each module requires 144 hours of related technical
instruction and 2,000 on-the-job training hours, the latter of The first cohort to complete Penn College’s four-year Getchen returned to one of those labs, the floral room,
which is overseen by each apprentice’s respective employer. registered apprenticeship program in mechatronics over several days in May, along with bridesmaid Vanessa R.
participates in a graduation ceremony on campus. (Atherton) Harman ’08,
’08, who she met in floral design class.
Those companies are responsible for paying the apprentices
and providing that hands-on learning environment, while “Words will never describe how the ESC actually makes
Penn College provides the related classroom instruction. me feel. Life wasn’t easy for me while I was going there. It
The graduates represented six companies: Dempsey was my comfort blanket, a safe place where I didn’t have to
Uniform & Linen Supply, Design Group Americas Inc., think about what was actually going on in my real life. Smiling through her pre-wedding to-do list, Elizabeth M.
Getchen ’07, ’09 makes a sentimental return to the Earth
First Quality Tissue, Girton Manufacturing, The Hershey Co. “I met a lot of wonderful people from the different
Science Center to arrange her wedding flowers.
and West Pharmaceutical Services. programs there, and I couldn’t have asked for a better
college experience.”
4 Penn College Magazine Fall 2022 5
HIGH-STAKES TRAVEL
WILDCAT ATHLETICS
SOCCER TRAINS TRAVEL NURSE IN ADAPTABILITY
by Matt J. Blymier, assistant director of athletics for compliance and
athletics communication
IT’S JUNE, She was “raised as a baby nurse” in oncology and hematology,
first by chance, since it was one of the few open positions, then by
PHOTO COURTESY OF HAILEE HARTMAN
AND HAILEE
choice, when she decided to stay in the unit because she found the
HARTMAN ’19 work “rewarding and mentally stimulating.”
As a travel nurse, Hailee Hartman ’19 is in Charleston, After about a year and a half at Lancaster General, Hartman
draws on the skills she learned in the South Carolina,
classroom and mental preparation she noticed a trend in travel nursing. Travel nurses typically work for
beginning a new job an agency that places them at facilities that are suffering from a
honed as a Wildcat soccer player.
Kyla Benner at her fifth hospital staffing crisis. Most placements last two to three months. Nurses
in 18 months. And can choose their best fit – which can include location, discipline
while everything and sometimes even the salary range.
Noah Hunt
around her is unfamiliar, Hartman is prepared, calm and focused. “I noticed that travel nursing was trending in March 2020,
The stakes are much higher now, but her preparation and right when the pandemic started,” Hartman explained. “Obviously
mindset echo the approach Hartman took during her standout it’s a quicker way to make a little more money, but there are other
WRESTLING SOFTBALL
soccer career at Pennsylvania College of Technology. valuable reasons to start travel nursing. It really helps prevent
Noah Hunt ’24 became the fifth wrestler The Wildcats caught fire in the middle
“I think I’m a good travel nurse because I can adapt to new burnout because you’re only in one place for a short amount of
in program history to earn a podium finish of the season with a program-record
situations,” Hartman said. “My soccer background provided me time. You get to change facilities and have to learn new systems
at the NCAA Division III Regionals. Hunt 15-game winning streak. The team made
earned fifth place at 141 pounds after history when Kyla Benner ’22 tossed two the necessary skills to be able to adapt quickly to changes. When and people every few
entering the tournament unseeded. perfect games, and Mackenzie Weaver I played, I compartmentalized the game; now I compartmentalize months, and you’re able
Beginning in 2022-23, Penn College ’25 hurled a no-hitter. Penn College the shift. That’s how I get through it.” to take a few weeks off in
joins the Empire Collegiate Wrestling returned to the conference championship Hartman’s preparation and mindset also helped her become
Jacob Carles between jobs.”
Conference. The conference comprises for the third-straight season, finishing as the most prolific women’s soccer player in program history. From Hartman eased into
Alfred State, Brockport, SUNY Cortland, the United East runner-up. 2014 to 2017, Hartman helped Penn College to three postseason travel nursing by taking a
Ithaca, SUNY Oneonta, SUNY Oswego, Benner earned United East Pitcher of berths and a conference final appearance. Individually, Hartman job at a facility in nearby
Pitt-Bradford, Penn State-Behrend and the Year and joined Weaver and Olivia collected three all-conference selections and ended her career as York and commuting from
Rochester Institute of Technology. As Hemstock ’22 on the United East first Penn College’s all-time leader in goals, assists and points.
part of ECWC, the college’s wrestlers will team. Maddie Hurst ’23 and Ivvy her home in Lancaster.
“The biggest thing that separated Hailee from other players She later took a position
compete for conference championships Morder ’23 earned second-team honors.
was her desire to be better, her preparation and her self-analyzing at a facility near a family
and all-conference and all-academic Jordan Specht ’23, Hemstock and
to improve every aspect of her game to become a more complete home in Maryland, then in
honors. Benner were also named to the National
player,” said former Penn College head women’s soccer coach John Pittsburgh, where she had
LACROSSE Fastpitch Coaches Association All-Region
Third Team. McNichol. “That’s what made her a special player, and I know friends and family. Then
Penn College made a return trip to the that’s how she approaches being a nurse.”
conference playoffs before bowing out BASEBALL she traveled farther. She
Early in her senior year of high school at Lampeter-Strasburg, worked for three months
in the semifinals to finish the season at The Wildcats reached the conference
James Thatcher Hartman decided that she wanted to be a nurse. She wanted in Greensboro, North
9-8. Mason Nester ’25 was named to playoffs for the sixth time in seven
to attend a school that favored labs over lectures, and she had a Hartman advances the ball during
the United East first team, while James seasons and finished third. Penn College Carolina, in February and
desire to continue her soccer career. Hartman found both at Penn a Penn College match. She ended
Thatcher ’24, Cole Spezialetti ’25, wrapped up its season with a 21-18 began work in Charleston her Wildcat soccer career as the
Trevor Soli ’24 and Quinn Caviola ’24 record and had four players named to the College and realized early that soccer was more than a game: It at the end of June. college’s all-time leader in goals,
received second-team nods. all-conference team. Jacob Carles ’23 was a support system. At each stop, Hartman assists and points.
was named to the United East first team, “I realized how beneficial soccer was going to be for me in the
GOLF puts her well-rounded
while Cameron Dick ’23, Shane Price middle of my freshman year,” Hartman recalled. “It forced me
The Wildcats earned their third top-three Penn College experience to use by combining the hard skills she
’23 and Sam Zeigler ’22 earned second- to balance school, a personal life and the sport, and provided a
conference finish in as many seasons in learned in the classroom and the essential skills she developed as
team honors. person (head coach) to offer support and encouragement – which
2022. Gavin Baer ’25 highlighted Penn a student-athlete.
College’s performance with a sixth-place is something other students may not have.” “I am very grateful that I had my academic and athletic
finish and was named United East Rookie Following her graduation from Penn College, Hartman experiences at Penn College,” Hartman said. “It provided me
of the Year. returned home and began working at Lancaster General Hospital. so many skills to be successful in my career.” ¢
Gavin Baer
6 Penn College Magazine Fall 2022 7
The partnership with Penn College How have your previous roles PATH TO THE
PRESIDENCY
MEET
provided me an in-depth look at the at the college prepared you for
extraordinary work happening on campus. the presidency? Education Milestones
The culture and mission of Penn College I was fortunate to serve in a wide
Doctor of Education in educational
MIKE
aligned to my personal beliefs, and when range of roles at Penn College, and the
leadership, Drexel University
an assistant dean position opened, I took a collective experiences will be invaluable
risk – seeing it as an opportunity to make as we strategically lead our team forward. Post-master certificate in school
meaningful contributions while enhancing Serving as an assistant dean and dean administration, Penn State University
my professional learning. provided a unique opportunity to work
REED
Master of Education in counseling
closely with a large group of faculty and and education, Indiana University of
When were you first exposed to students to advance a subset of programs Pennsylvania
Penn College, and what was your and lead a school. It also afforded me
Bachelor of Science in secondary
initial impression of the institution? the chance to teach a couple sections of
education, Clarion University of
As a high school leader in the upper-level coursework. Being immersed
Pennsylvania
Harrisburg area, I knew that Penn College with our faculty and students provided a
On July 1, Michael J. Reed, formerly was a quality institution dedicated to comprehensive, hands-on understanding
Penn College Posts
applied technology and boasted an of our culture and how our mission and
Pennsylvania College of Technology’s impressive placement rate. When I toured strategic plans are implemented, showing Vice president for academic affairs
vice president for academic affairs campus for the first time, I was truly blown both our strengths and opportunities and provost
away by the faculty and staff expertise, for growth.
and provost, began his duties as the Vice president for academic
the labs, and industry partners used to Overseeing academic operations operations and associate provost
institution’s eighth president. Penn advance student development. expanded my knowledge of our
Dean, School of Sciences,
College Magazine sat down with comprehensive budgets, building project
Humanities & Visual Communications
Reed takes the What have been the most planning and the entire academic
Reed to learn about his path to Penn podium at a impactful changes you’ve portfolio. It afforded me the opportunity Assistant dean, liberal arts &
College and his hopes for its future. special Board of experienced at the college? to work and learn with additional faculty sciences
Directors meeting It’s difficult to rank because there have and staff and understand the necessary
interview by Tom Speicher, writer/video producer announcing his Secondary school stops in
been multiple advancements. But I believe interconnections of all college divisions.
selection as
three of the more impactful changes have Serving as provost extended my Pennsylvania
president.
been the development of the Center for engagement with all college divisions and Head principal, Williamsport Area
Career Design and the creation of College academic programs. Working daily with High School
It’s obvious from your background and gain relevant experience. Facilitating Prior to joining Penn College as Relations, the reorganization of Academic the president, dealing with assessment and
Principal, SciTech Campus of
that you were drawn to a career groups and engaging with adolescents and an assistant dean in 2014, you Affairs, and the evolution of Workforce grants, and being involved with corporate
Harrisburg High School
in education at a young age. What adults working through extraordinary were a well-established secondary Development. partners and our Board of Directors –
sparked that interest? complexities triggered a dual interest in school leader and administrator. Placing Institutional Advancement, coupled with the aforementioned roles – Principal, William Penn Alternative
For as long as I can remember, helping teaching and counseling. What prompted you to seek an Corporate Relations, Alumni Relations have enhanced my understanding of School
others, competing and working through opportunity in higher education? and Career Services all under College our culture, strengths and opportunities School counselor, Upper Dauphin
challenges have inspired me. I was You began your career as a teacher I’m very proud of what we Relations has created dynamic synergy for growth. Area School District
fortunate to have quality teachers, coaches and counselor before transitioning accomplished at Williamsport, SciTech and has yielded extraordinary results for Teacher, Abraxas Foundation
and mentors, and their impact sparked to administrative roles. Why did and William Penn and enjoyed my students, industry and the college. What appealed to you
an interest in working in the helping you decide to make that shift? experiences in secondary schools. My The three-school model in Academic about becoming president
profession. In addition, I spent a great I enjoyed teaching and counseling, and interest in higher education emerged Affairs has improved collaboration of Penn College?
deal of time with my oldest brother and my interest in administration emerged by through a partnership with Penn College between faculty and staff, enhanced The role of president provides an
Reed poses
sister-in-law throughout my high school seeing firsthand the larger-scale impact when I served as principal at Williamsport. operational efficiencies, and streamlined opportunity to make a more impactful with Davie Jane
years. My sister-in-law was, and still is, a a quality leader, working effectively with Our team worked hard to develop relevant resources for long-term sustainability difference for our students, community Gilmour at a
passionate teacher. Seeing firsthand the a team, could have on students and the partnerships with colleges and industry, planning. and workforce. The talent density on our gala celebrating
impact she had on her students and the community. Administration provided and we promoted applied technology Increasing apprenticeship campus is exceptional. I look forward her June 30
retirement as
satisfaction she had with her career led me an opportunity to make a greater education on our high school campus. opportunities and industry training and to building on our collective strengths
Pennsylvania
to become a teacher. contribution and stretched my personal Penn College became an ideal partner working collaboratively with faculty have and evaluating what systems need to be College of
When earning my bachelor’s degree development. in establishing several dual-enrollment led to expanded reach for Workforce modified to accelerate our growth and Technology
and teaching credentials, I worked at a courses for college-ready students and Development – meeting workforce needs advance our mission. president.
psychiatric center to offset tuition costs development opportunities for teachers. and advancing our mission.
8 Penn College Magazine Fall 2022 9
What makes Penn College unique in • E xpand stackable credentials to degree How do you plan to collaborate RUNNING WITH REED
the competitive higher-education opportunities. with faculty and staff to meet Hometown: Glenshaw, Pennsylvania;
landscape? With staffing, there are employee collegewide objectives? about 15 minutes from Pittsburgh
Our relevance, industry connections, shortages across the nation, particularly I strongly encourage two-way
Full house: Youngest of 10 kids
hands-on approach, faculty expertise and within the high-demand fields aligned communication, and I get out of my
alumni success make us truly unique. We with our degrees. Our campus experts are office as much as possible to purposefully Trailblazer: First-generation college
offer a full college experience and degrees routinely recruited to return to industry. engage with our stakeholders. Interactions student
The Reed family on an outdoor adventure.
that are in extremely high demand. Our Most of our employees choose to work at through divisional rounds, coffee and Family facts: Wife Christina
graduates are placed on a faster trajectory Penn College to make a difference and conversations, department head/program is executive director of BLaST
for long-term success. We shouldn’t be develop the next generation of tomorrow leader meetings, and shared governance Intermediate Unit 17. Son Gavin
shy expressing how exceptional we truly makers. We need to ensure we keep and councils have yielded multiple is 16, and daughter Cali will be 15
are and the positive impact our graduates our team members actively engaged mission-focused ideas that have helped in September.
make throughout the commonwealth in thought-provoking challenges and maximize opportunities and prioritize First car owned: A used five-speed
and beyond. decision-making processes. planning. As president, I will expand Honda CRX
We also need to keep working to recruit engagement opportunities to include a
During a Heavy Equipment Rodeo, Pittsburgh pride: Fan of the
What are the most significant a more diverse employee population to wider range of stakeholder groups.
part of the Earth Science Center’s 50th challenges facing the college? best prepare our students to enter a global Penguins and Steelers
anniversary celebration, Reed picks
Enrollment, staffing and infrastructure workforce. What role should alumni play First job: Stocking shelves and
up an egg before deftly depositing it
down a tube. present significant challenges and our As for infrastructure, there are many in the college’s future? cleaning floors at Foodland, a
greatest opportunities for improvement. rapid and radical changes and innovations I have a genuine appreciation for grocery store
Regarding enrollment, industry needs happening within industry, and we must our alumni, and many are extremely Favorite food: Pizza
more highly skilled graduates, and the continually adapt our labs, technologies successful leaders in their chosen fields.
Hobby: Being in the outdoors,
return on investment from a Penn College and equipment to ensure our faculty and Our alumni offer invaluable input on
whether trail running, hiking, biking,
education is extremely high. A few steps students remain on the leading edge. what worked well on campus to help
fly fishing or archery
we need to take to bolster enrollment We need to strategically maximize our them advance, and they provide hands-
include: capital and continue to partner closely on insight on emerging trends within Running man: Competed in several
• Strategically build stronger connections with industry. their respective fields. These direct marathons (including the 2018
with high school teachers and parents. perspectives are essential for program Boston Marathon) and endurance
Christina and Mike take to the outdoors
They are major influencers on higher How much influence should advancement and recruitment for our trail races as long as 31 miles
on cross-country skis.
FAMILY PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL J. REED
education decisions, and our successful industry have in shaping the next generation of tomorrow makers. Community connection: Through
approach is not on enough radars. college’s academic offerings? the Salvation Army, developed
• Strengthen relationships with career Industry drives our program offerings, Let’s say you bump into a and directed the Williamsport
and technology centers and career and and quality industry relationships always student prospect during your Community Challenge, a series of
technical education programs. There have been, and always will be, essential to travels. How would you describe local trail races that has raised over
are nearly 70,000 high school students our success. We will continue to recruit Penn College to them? Why $100,000 for families and veterans
in Pennsylvania alone completing CTE/ industry and academic experts to teach, would you tell them to enroll? in need
CTC programs, which directly align with revise and advance our programs. Industry needs more Penn College
Reed celebrates his 50th with children
Gavin and Cali, and their black lab, Rio. most of our degree options. We need to graduates, and we are a direct pathway
ensure more of these parents, teachers Can you characterize your to success. We are innovative, creative
and students are keenly aware of how leadership style? and relevant. We deliver transformative,
a Penn College degree can accelerate Team-focused, collaborative, goal- hands-on education with personable
professional advancement. centered, transparent and transformative. faculty experts, small class sizes and
• Enhance diversity on our campus. The talent and passion on this campus are a long list of industry partners. We
We need to expand recruitment and extraordinary, and the best ideas emerge are what college should be – a full
partnerships within culturally diverse when various points of view and data are experience to develop highly skilled
areas. Industry needs a more diverse used to advance opportunities and solve thought leaders. The result is a 96.2% Reed provides final instructions before the
workforce, and all graduates will benefit complex challenges. Engaging stakeholders placement rate with alumni enjoying Community Challenge trail run to benefit
Reed, the youngest of 10 children, joins from being better prepared to excel in a is important to maximize our collective sustainable careers that include salaries the Salvation Army of Williamsport. Reed is
Reed’s favorite fishing buddy, Gavin,
his extended family for his mother’s culturally rich, global economy. expertise, innovate and modify systems to well above the state and national one of the organizers for the annual event,
catches “the fish of a lifetime” – a 50-inch
90 th birthday party in May. which includes 5K, 10K and half-marathon
• I ncrease part-time and weekend/evening move our institution forward. averages. ¢ muskie – on a fly rod in the Susquehanna
races on the Williamsport Municipal Water
opportunities for working adults who River in early June.
Authority’s trails.
want to complete a degree.
10 Penn College Magazine Fall 2022 11
Blazing the
by Tom Wilson, writer/editor-PCToday
students “learn, evolve, adapt and prepare” “I took Intro to Physics and Anatomy
for their introduction to campus life. and Physiological Survey this past year and
From birth onward, life is they were amazing, but also a stretch for
a formative series of firsts, COMMON THREADS me,” Moon said. “I love that the Tutoring
collegiate trail
EN C O
T-G
Staff at the center, headquartered – Center is open and has so many resources
epic milestones and quieter
1 st
both symbolically and conveniently – to help in any class. The degree that I will
UD F I R S
LL
moments that combine in the Davie Jane Gilmour Center at the get at the end of my years here will help me
EGE STU
to define the human gateway to the college’s main campus, get a very good job with great benefits.
provided a sampling of “rock stars” “Penn College has an amazing
experience.
RO
P DE who have navigated the first-generation reputation when it comes to preparing
Students, allies shape positive ‘first’ impressions
NT There’s that exploratory switch to solid minefield without losing sight of what students for success in the real world. I
food, not to mention the wobbly steps initially drew them to Penn College. While can honestly say that, so far, I have been
between a steadying coffee table and a each arrived with a unique back story, thriving here and cannot wait for my next
parent’s waiting arms. Oh, and don’t forget there are common threads in the tapestry couple of years.”
preschool play dates and kindergarten they weave: drive, focus, satisfaction, hope, Like so many of the college’s tomorrow
tears. Or an exhilarating crush on a involvement in student organizations – makers, Melina K. Petrick, a dental hygiene
theretofore-unnoticed classmate, the and the presence of mind to score big when student from Falls Creek, saw the merit of
rush of independence that accompanies playing whatever hands they’re dealt. a hands-on learning environment when
a learner’s permit and the flush of pride “I was always good at school, but it was choosing where to expand her knowledge
when landing a perfect summer gig at the never something I loved to do for eight and skill set. But she also took notice
end of senior year. hours a day for my K-12th grade years,” of the school’s “friendly and beautiful”
The next chapter for some – higher radiography student Brielle C. Moon said atmosphere marked by water fountains,
education – can bring a double debut: of her attraction to an associate-degree flowers and art, and said she admired the
A student leaves home for an extended major. “When I was looking at colleges I hard-working college employees who make
time and, in many cases, is the family’s wanted to apply to, four-year colleges were campus such a conducive environment for
collegiate trailblazer. not on my list. Penn College has so many student success.
Equally paved with elation and two-year programs, it made it so easy “Although I had a great first year of
potholed with hurdles, that path is closely for me to find a field of study that I was college, I did encounter difficulties along
monitored by a vigilant lineup of advocates interested in.” the way,” she said. “As I transitioned
at Pennsylvania College of Technology. Among the challenges faced so far, from high school to college, I had to
Recently joining the institution’s bullpen the Lewistown resident said, are the adjust my study habits. I learned to make
of resources is the LEAP Center, which demanding science-based classes required a study schedule so that I had enough
holistically helps first-year and transfer for her program. time each day to review material. I also
Kayleean A. Finan is at
home as a student in
the physical therapist “Being a first-gen college
assistant major at Penn
College. “I knew that this student, you are often beset
was the career I wanted with feelings of ‘Am I good
for myself,” she says. To
achieve her dream, she enough to be here?’ ‘Can I
relies on inner strength
and study techniques
make it?’ or ‘I have no idea
suggested by faculty, what is going on.’”
the First Year Experience
course, and her LEAP Christie A. Bing Kracker, director of
Center adviser. “This has Penn College’s LEAP Center and a
made it easy, to know that first-generation college graduate
I have someone there to
help me if I needed it.”
12 Penn College Magazine Fall 2022 13
8 %
following graduation – no mere talking “This concept is always pushing me, as the activities, as well. Throughout my first years after graduation.
PHOTO COURTESY OF TARYN A. ZIMMERMAN
4
points for a national leader in applied reward associated with being able to year, I spent a lot of time visiting animals “Being a first-gen college student,
ege technology education – helped to seal see my idea become a tangible object because I feel they help tremendously you are often beset with feelings of ‘Am
n n Coll ration the deal. is incomparable. with stress.” I good enough to be here?’ ‘Can I make
1 Pe ene
a ll 2 0 2 first-g ts Rough spots can and do crop up, “Moreover, sustainability and green Some of that stress was attributed to it?’ or ‘I have no idea what is going on,’”
o f F s wer e s t uden r al however, and Zimmerman shares her architecture are two topics we have delved the workload. Bing Kracker said. “During this past year
t u d ent llege g f e de
s c o w i n ge peers’ ability to power through adversity. further into, which has furthered my “I knew coming in it would be more, of transition for me, I could occasionally
ollo olle
n: F n n C i o n” as
ni t io , Pe t “The main challenge I have motivation. This allows me to incorporate but that also means putting more time in feel those same types of questions floating
De fi elines genera icat ed
guid “ fir s t- ve i nd a
encountered in the transition from high new concepts into my design work to and studying differently than I did in high through my thoughts. It was important Dental hygiene student
fi nes w ho ha en t has er. school was learning to study and teach ensure modern architecture is ecofriendly, school,” she said. “The LEAP Center and to find other first-gen colleagues or
d e t s p a r i g h Taryn A. Zimmerman is
en er rh
s t ud t n e i t h gr ee o myself,” she recounted. “College is more while still being aesthetically appealing. FYE (a required First Year Experience those with similar life journeys for me motivated to make her
t ha e
r ’s d parents – who are providing
hel o individualized work, whereas, in high Each semester reinforces the vast impact class) helped with different ways of to connect with and find support.”
b ac an opportunity to her that
school, everyone works together.” architecture has on everyone’s lives and studying. The professors also will give Working with students to help them
they did not have – proud.
Another stumbling block was learning the critical role I can play in ensuring strategies to study for their exams.” transition into Penn College was also
used the ‘active recall’ method to achieve the importance of time management, designs are safe and sustainable.” Finan has availed herself of the center, a way for her to ease any concerns,
productive studying.” and – yet again – a familiar lifeline was which provides first-year students with an she noted.
Among the campus’s “top-notch manifest. academic adviser and a LEAP adviser to “I was able to demonstrate that, what
resources” for students, she said, one site “The Tutoring Center has helped me aid in smooth passage. I may have been missing in specific
saw more of her than others. significantly and worked with me, day in “This has made it easy, to know that I knowledge about Penn College processes,
“The Tutoring Center staff is excellent and day out, until I received the grades I have someone there to help me if I needed I made up for in transferrable skills and
at explaining things in a variety of ways,” wanted. The LEAP Center and my adviser it throughout the first two semesters,” genuine desire to help students succeed.
Petrick said. “There’s also a broad selection have also been a huge help. They are she said. Much like my first year of college, I found
of study materials. For example, I had the always reaching out and looking to help in “Help” also takes the form of ways to connect with others, reaffirm my
opportunity to use the detailed anatomy any way possible. They really take notice knowledgeable and empathetic friends, belief that I did belong here, and that I
models and (organs from) cadavers, which of the little things and help the first-year such as Penn College President Michael had a lot to contribute to help move this
helped me learn a lot of information students greatly!” In addition to small class sizes and J. Reed, the youngest of 10 children who campus community forward.
quickly!” With the wisdom of someone who’s the instant feedback he gets from the enrolled at Clarion University as an “I don’t believe we outgrow our first- Brielle C. Moon says that
she is thriving, with the help
been there, she offers this advice to other faculty in his major, Yocum has “benefited undergrad. gen identity and how it shaped us; we
of on-campus resources,
LIFELINES, HOME AND AWAY first-generation students: “Stick with it. It tremendously” from his Career Services “Like many other first-gen students, continue to integrate it into who we are despite the demanding
Another first-generation student – gets tough sometimes, but do not give up. interactions – particularly in perfecting his it took some time for me to believe in today and into how we navigate new science courses required for
Taryn A. Zimmerman, of Lock Haven, Use resources such as the Tutoring Center resume and offering confidence-boosting myself – believe that I belonged on campus transitions,” added Bing Kracker, who is competitive entrance into
who is also enrolled in dental hygiene and reach out to your professors. Your mock interviews. – and learn how to be most successful,” brainstorming a number of campus events the radiography major.
– points to her parents with pride and professors are there to help you and guide “Additionally, I have utilized the said Reed, who assumed the presidency to raise awareness of first-generation
gratitude for providing an opportunity you. Also, make friends! They are going makerspace a few times for various class on July 1. (See more about Reed on Page students’ needs – particularly in the
they didn’t have, as well as their support through the same thing you are, so use one projects, such as the laser cutter and 3D 8.) “I was fortunate to have a brother admissions process and during that crucial
“every step of the way.” another to your learning advantage.” printers. This has been a huge help when and sister-in-law who lived close to the metamorphic period following high school
PHOTO COURTESY OF MELINA K. PETRICK
“I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for Lex R. Yocum, of Watsontown, who it comes to getting projects completed, university, and they served as invaluable or transfer.
them,” she said. “I am greatly motivated already earned an associate degree in specifically when the printers or cutter mentors, particularly during challenging “I think that I am successful in work
to make them proud!” architectural technology and is working in the architecture lab are occupied. times. Their insight helped me succeed and in life because of the support I
Once she decided to go to college, her toward a bachelor’s in building science Anything you can think can be done in and discover unique opportunities to received as a first-gen. It helped develop
selection was an easy one. & sustainable design: architectural the makerspace, which is a huge help.” maximize my learning.” a sense of resilience in me for all the
“I chose Penn College because it was technology concentration, knew about Another passionate ally is Christie transitions that life brings.” ¢
close to home and I liked the small class Penn College from friends and family ONE GIANT LEAP A. Bing Kracker, director of the LEAP
sizes. The staff takes the time to get to (sister Latricia is in the physician assistant Inner strength sustained another Center, also a first-generation college
know you, and you get a chance to know program) and attended a summer Watsontown resident, Kayleean A. Finan, student, who earned bachelor’s and Melina K. Petrick, a dental
hygiene student, adjusted
your peers,” Zimmerman said. “I also Architecture Odyssey camp during high when she determinedly worked through master’s degrees at the University of
P RO U her study habits from high
really enjoyed the thought of ‘hands-on school. the competitive pre-stage to the full Memphis before a career that began with D school to college, drawing on
F IR S T
experience,’ and the instructors have real- “The idea of being able to imagine a physical therapist assistant program. a decades-long stint in Student Affairs. - GE N the Tutoring Center and other
world experience in your major, so they structure in my mind, designing those “This kept me motivated because I Reflecting on her own adaptation to a C OL L campus resources.
EG
know what is required for the industry.” ideas on paper and in various programs, knew that this was the career I wanted for new role, a new campus and a new division S T UD E
State-of-the-art equipment and an and then having the idea physically created myself,” she said. “I focused on my studies within higher ed, she was reminded how
EN T
acknowledged high job-placement rate has always been fascinating to me,” he said. and made sure to keep free time for other initial academic experiences can echo
14 Penn College Magazine Fall 2022 15
UP FOR THE
CHALLENGE
Services employees. Boosting the endeavor
“The pressure of a financially were Brent and Daria Fish,
who generously gifted support to honor
challenge allows you the memory of Brent’s father, William
H. Fish. It’s been a true team effort that
to see a vulnerable has resulted in a ripple effect of infinite
opportunities.
side of people but “It was special for me to see participants
experience in real time the surprising,
also highlights their unexpected personal insights that come
from challenge and team-building
inner strength!” experiences,” Cooley said. “I really
appreciated seeing groups coalesce during
their experience: Individuals would
Leadership Challenge Course arrive at the course for their program as
individuals, standing alone and looking
transforms at their phone, or chatting in groups
of two or three, but leaving in larger
individuals to teams groups, laughing, talking about what just
happened.”
Other faculty have taken notice,
scheduling Challenge Course sessions for
their students.
“It was wonderful watching the
students connect outside of the classroom
and clinic environment,” said Bridget E.
Motel, dental hygiene instructor. “I saw
and those resulting benefits follow them encourage each other as they worked
participants off the course into their together to navigate the course obstacles
classrooms, labs and lives. and complete the unique problem-solving
“I encountered course participants exercises. Students developed their
across campus after their sessions and leadership, teamwork and critical thinking
learned that some of the skills they applied skills in a fun, friendly environment.
Members of the Student American Dental Hygienists Association are led by Rob
during their experience (communication, Both first- and second-year students truly
Cooley, bottom right, who initiated the Fish Real Estate Leadership Challenge Read more at magazine.pct.edu/uf
Course, through an activity that uses a large “webbing loop” to form a circle. The
respect, collaboration, support) continued enjoyed this experience and appreciated
group begins standing, and first leans back while holding the loop. “The collective to influence their work and peer groups the opportunity to interact!”
by Cindy Davis Meixel, writer/photo editor
balance of the group depends on everyone working together and trusting each long after the challenge course event,” Joe Tavani, instructor of automotive
other,” Cooley says. Once comfortable with leaning, the group sits and rises in said Rob Cooley, associate professor of technology: Honda PACT, says he sought
unison. “This is achieved without using anything but the loop to support us.” anthropology/environmental science. out the Challenge Course for his students
Cooley is an associate professor of anthropology/environmental science.
Cooley initiated and shepherded as a way to infuse a teamwork component
D
the Challenge Course after witnessing into what is otherwise a fairly solitary
evin Boyd-Joseph says he barely knew each other, but out there, Course. A diverse array of academic majors and team-building activities,” said Brenda countless transformational experiences career field.
didn’t really get to know we got to know each other – more than took advantage of the unique offering, Wiegand, associate director of academic among students on study-abroad “In the automotive business and, in
his classmates until he set in the classes. It was nice learning about as did student organizations, athletics operations and a course facilitator. expeditions and in his Outdoor Recreation general, a lot of trades, you’re not in a
foot on the Fish Real Estate everybody, communicating, and getting teams and a range of college departments. Featuring nine elements ranging in as a Therapeutic Tool course. During a teamworking situation; you’re doing your
Leadership Challenge Course. It was the to know about our different lives and The current academic year will no doubt physical difficulty, the 14,400-square-foot Spring 2019 sabbatical, he researched and job solo. For the most part, you’re alone
sixth week of classes in Fall 2021, and backgrounds,” Boyd-Joseph said. “It was see renewed enthusiasm and increased Challenge Course focuses on collaboration consulted with Tony Draus, of EdVenture in your day, and if you lose focus, you
the Hanover resident joined with other different from team building I’d done in engagement at the hands-on enterprise. and problem-solving, explores leadership Builders in Bloomsburg, and the duo make mistakes. I thought the Challenge
automotive technology: Honda PACT the past.” “The course presents an opportunity and communication concepts, and brought the vision to life – with the Course would contribute to their learning,
students at the outdoor venue on the south Nearly 400 students engaged in team- for members of our campus community encourages self-discovery and team added expertise of faculty and students in seeing how other people’s points of
edge of campus. building exercises during the 2021-22 to step outside of their comfort zone by growth. Strengthening relationships as in architecture and building construction view help in solving problems,” Tavani
“Up to that point, it felt like we academic year at the new Challenge engaging in challenging and fun leadership well as self-confidence are key outcomes, technology and Penn College General explained.
16 Penn College Magazine Fall 2022 17ELEMENTS CHALLENGE
OF THE
COURSE
Wildcat Walk
Get your group to safely traverse multiple lengths
of cable without falling off. There are trees and
poles between the stretches of cable, which help,
but moving between trees can be challenging.
Communication and trust are key to success here.
Z Steps
Similar to the Wildcat Walk, but this activity uses
planks instead of rope. The added challenge here
is that trees or poles are off limits as supports.
Commitment Bridge
This is a trust-building activity. Team members pair
up and stand facing each other at the intersection
of two cables strung into a “V” shape. The pair
holds hands or locks arms and shuffles outward on
the cables as the cables get farther apart. As the
participants progress along the widening V, they
will lean increasingly on each other.
Human services & restorative justice student Jorden
K. Graham, bottom left, and students in various Tire Traverse
other majors tackle trust-building challenges, A very physical element. The goal is to get
including, clockwise from top left: students place
your group across the course from one tire
a ring onto the sleeping king’s finger (that is, they
to the next without touching the ground.
place a tire with 10 handles onto a post without
touching the post); complete the multiline; and work
Triangle Tension Traverse
their way through the Z Steps.
This is a low-profile but challenging station!
It begins easily, but the difficulty is increased
With the outdoor venue launching experience of learning different working Starting each session with icebreaker quickly as participants traverse.
during the COVID-19 pandemic, the styles. We each applied our unique key games and evolving into activities Team Nitro Crossing
Challenge Course offered additional strengths as a cooperative force, which requiring physical support between Teams swing across an imaginary canyon using
healthy benefits. was fun and enlightening. The pressure of participants, the Challenge Course creates one rope and four platforms. The basic rule of
“The Challenge Course was a place a challenge allows you to see a vulnerable experiences where the individual’s and this station is that the hazard will consume the life
where positivity and fresh air eased the side of people but also highlights their team’s success and physical safety depends Dominique A. Viola, a May support tools (rope, platforms) if participants let
stress from masking, COVID-19 and the inner strength!” on the participants collaborating directly dental hygiene graduate, is go or stop touching those items.
spotted by her peers as she
world, and allowed people to just be their The Challenge Course has also adeptly and intentionally.
best selves, pushing boundaries, learning stirred laughter into the learning. “As a facilitator, I have found that one
reaches for a rope. In its first Postman Walk
year, the Challenge Course This tightrope-like activity involves a two-line
about others, and making authentic “Everyone worked together through of the most impactful parts of the course is hosted 34 groups, including
bridge with one rope as a handrail.
connections with people in their major, laughter and collaboration,” said Samantha the opportunity to debrief activities with academic classes, student
team or group that they might not have Theriault, a dental hygiene student from participants,” Wiegand said. “Through organizations, athletics teams Multiline
ever really engaged with otherwise,” Taylor. “Even those who came with these reflection activities, it’s easy to see and departmental staff.
This element involves dangling support ropes
Cooley said. apprehension left with a team spirit and the value the course provides. Some of the that are hung at various heights and lengths.
Jorden Graham, a human services enjoyed their time! Taking time to build comments I hear participants say are: Your team will climb these ropes simultaneously.
& restorative justice student from relationships with my classmates outside of ‘I can’t believe I just did that!,’ ‘No one
Williamsport, concurred: “I was excited the classroom benefitted our relationships has ever cheered for me like that before,’
Porthole
Everyone has to escape a sinking ship via the
to be outdoors and get to know my peers’ from that point on.” or ‘I didn’t realize I could lead.’” ¢
porthole to the lifeboat. Team members will
smiling faces. What surprised me was the
pass through a tire with some added difficulties.
18 Penn College Magazine Fall 2022 19You can also read
