Class of 2014 - Wheeling Jesuit University
Transcription
Class of 2014 - Wheeling Jesuit University
A Message from Rev. James Fleming, S.J., Ph.D. WJU President Summer 2014 Wheeling Jesuit University – A Community Treasure WJU is a vibrant campus that opens its doors for community members in many ways. From early March to the end of the academic year, WJU welcomed more than 3,500 community members for special events, lectures, athletic competitions, ceremonies, recreation and more. These activities are designed to engage and benefit the community while showcasing the many facets of WJU—academics, research, advocacy, culture, and athletics. These well attended events serve as examples: Community Day, Gaudiosa, Student Research and Scholarship Symposium, Earth Day, Light the Night, and Celebrate Appalachia. I’m pleased that members of the surrounding community can participate in these events alongside Wheeling Jesuit’s students, faculty and staff. WJU students enjoy Culture Fest during Community Day. Class of 2014 The 2013-14 academic year was a rewarding time for me in my first year as WJU’s President. I am grateful for the support of the many business, community and religious leaders who helped me along the way. Thanks to them, the Class of 2014 received an excellent Jesuit education replete with meaningful experiences that prepared them for life, leadership and service with and among others—our mission. I am proud of this distinguished class of graduates. I wish them Godspeed as they embark on their exciting futures! More information on graduation follows on Page 6. Rev. James Fleming, S.J., Ph.D. WJU President WJU Rolls out the Welcome Mat Gaudiosa Event Exceeds Expectations Wheeling Jesuit’s first ever Gaudiosa (gow-de-O’-sa, meaning “joyous feast”) celebrated the University’s 60th anniversary and raised $72,000 for student scholarships. The March 29th event was a sellout. It was held at the WJU Alma Grace McDonough Center, starting with a cocktail reception and music by the Wheeling Symphony String Quartet. WJU Board Chairman Chris Helmrath kicked off the program with Bishop Michael J. Bransfield and WJU President Rev. James Fleming giving remarks and thanking the event sponsors and attendees. Fr. Fleming expressed special gratitude to Ryan Ferns, B.S. ’05, DPT ’07 for his support of the event. "Thank you, Ryan, for your many years of support to the University. It is support from alums like you who continue to make scholarships grow,” said Chris Helmrath, WJU Board Chair, Bishop Michael Fleming. The Ryan Ferns HealthPlex was the premiere Bransfield and WJU President Rev. James Fleming event sponsor. pause for a photo during Gaudiosa. During the evening, a video was shown featuring current scholarship students which illustrated the vital impact of scholarship support in helping students access and successfully complete a Jesuit education. After dinner, comedian Remy Munasifi ’03 entertained the guests as did musical performers Dathan Williams ’82 and Vera Barton-Caro ’82. The River City Brass, conducted by maestro Dr. James Gourlay, played musical selections which rocked the house. Gourlay also serves as the Director of Instrumental Music and Bands at WJU. The event was planned by WJU’s Institutional Advancement Team, led by Vice President Sarah Kelly and Special Officer Kathryn Kelly. The Gaudiosa planning committee included: Bishop Bransfield and John Beilein ’75, honorary chairs; Michael Ferns Sr.; Jane Straub Friday ’61; Mary Hamm; Christopher and Susan Helmrath; Bill Hogan; Carlos C. Jimenez, M.D.; Bob Knott ‘89; Joe Pangilinan ’88; John ’95 and Libby ’97 Espejo Reasbeck; Danny ’98 and Becky Sancomb; and Edward Schmitt ’70. Among the event sponsors: Platinum -- Bishop Bransfield and the Diocese of WheelingCharleston; The Society of Jesus; and WTOV-TV9 Bishop Michael Bransfield and Ryan Gold -- Beverly Hawk; John ’61 & Marlene Yasinsky; and Jim & Ferns, DPT ’07, talk during the event. Mary Ellen Will Silver -- Dinsmore & Shohl; Lamar Advertising; Parkhurst Dining; Bordas & Bordas, PLLC; Riesbeck’s; Urologic Research Institute; Family Medical Supply; Jane Straub Friday ’61; Lou ’70 & Catherine Volpe, In memory of Dr. Rizal Pangilinan; Congregation of St. Joseph; Absolute Management, Inc.; Boston College; and the Seidl family. Based on its success as a stellar event and an effective scholarship fundraiser, the Gaudiosa will become an annual event at WJU. 2 WJU Rolls out the Welcome Mat Activity Packed Community Day Hundreds of community members visited the WJU campus to attend the University’s first Community Day held on campus March 29, open to the public. The event was part of the University’s celebration of its 60th anniversary and an opportunity to thank the community for its support of WJU over the last six decades. There were a wide variety of activities and exhibits on campus for all to enjoy, offering a snapshot of the WJU experience, including: Two performances: A children’s play and a preview of an upcoming production, both performed by WJU’s student players. Art Exhibition: Featuring the paintings, sculptures, drawings and other works of art produced by WJU’s talented student artists. Information Sharing: Student research exhibits and faculty lectures on a wide variety of topics from the Oscars to local air quality. Culture Fest: Food, music and dance from around the world, showcasing the diversity of WJU’s international students from 20 countries. Concert: WJU’s Symphonic Band performing musical selections at WJU’s new Mount de Chantal Conservatory of Music. Fine Arts Professor Georgia Tambasis works with community members on a gunpowder art project. Athletic Events: Day-long competitions at WJU’s new Bishop Schmitt Field. WJU vs. Michigan State University, rugby; Pride Street High vs. Brunswick High, rugby; and Wheeling Park vs. Brunswich High, lacrosse. Tailgate Parties: Staged during the athletic events for community members and WJU alums to meet old friends, make new ones and enjoy the competitions and games. Micronauts: An interactive and exciting program for young, aspiring scientists offered through WJU’s Challenger Learning Center. A group of dancers bring their colorful act to Campus Ministry Open House: Discussions about the Jesuit WJU’s stage during Culture Fest 2014. charism, religion and student Appalachian research, held at the Chapel of Mary and Joseph and led by WJU students, faculty, staff and Jesuits. Mass: Special service held at the Chapel of Mary and Joseph to celebrate and appreciate the community’s support of WJU over the years. 3 WJU Rolls out the Welcome Mat 15th Annual Student Research and Scholarship Symposium “Why do we do basic research? To learn about ourselves.” -Walter Gilbert, Nobel Laureate WJU is justifiably proud of the quality of its student-faculty research and the quantity--55% of our undergraduates engage in research projects, outpacing a 19% national average. Jacob Kenney (left) explains hydroponic research that he worked on with fellow student Tess Shepard. The research was a joint project of Dr. Mary Railing of the Appalachian Institute and Dr. Laurie Ruberg of Plants, LLC. At this year’s symposium held on April 8, 120 WJU students presented exhibits and presentations before a panel of WJU faculty judges. The student researchers spend months investigating and researching their topics in preparation for the symposium. Faculty selected 17 winners. Some research presented or exhibited at the Symposium included: Solitary Confinement and High Recidivism Rates: Are They Related? Treatment of Acid Mine Drainage with Liquid Cheese Whey as a Sulfate Reducing Bacteria Stimulant Risk Assessment: A Closer Look at the Proposed Concentration of Bromide in the Ohio River After a Barge Collapse Control and Prevention of Cimex lectularius by Means of Using Diatomaceous Earth as a Non-Toxic Matrix Celebrate Appalachia – 10th Annual Event WJU’s Appalachian Institute held its 10th annual Celebrate Appalachia event over several days in April, with presentations, discussion and activities giving community members a better understanding and appreciation for Appalachia and its people. More than 400 attended the various events which were free to the public. Activities included: -Discussion on mountaintop removal coal mining -Screening of the “Hollow” documentary. The film examines the lives of 30 individuals living in McDowell County, WV, who have stayed in the area despite hardships Cabin Fever String Band performs bluegrass music in WJU’s Benedum Room as part of Celebrate Appalachia. -Earth Day Gardening Project which expanded WJU’s Community Garden -Sustainability Fair hosted by the Student Sustainability Club, which showcased local organizations and vendors that work to make the Ohio Valley more “green” 4 WJU Rolls out the Welcome Mat HomeField Advantage Campaign In all seasons and all types of weather, from early morning to late evening, students and community members use WJU’s athletic fields and track for sports training, competition, exercise, recreation and special events. Over the years, constant use and heavy traffic took a toll on the track and fields. In 2013, WJU began a campaign, HomeField Advantage, to raise funds for sorely needed repairs and upgrades to its outdoor facilities. Funds are still needed to complete the multi-phase project, but generous gifts helped to jumpstart the upgrades: $500,000 gift from Bishop Michael J. Bransfield to help upgrade the main field, which is now named in memory of Bishop Bernard Schmitt, Bishop Bransfield’s predecessor $250,000 lead gift from the Cardinal Athletic Club whose members—alums and friends of the University– support WJU’s athletic programs $250,000 pledge from friends and family of the late Bishop Bernard W. Schmitt Other major donors include the Fitzsimmons Foundation; Bordas and Bordas, PLLC; WesBanco; Bob Robinson Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac; John Mensore ’60; Mansuetto Roofing; and Staley Communication. In addition to the WJU students, community organizations that use the fields include: Ohio County Special Olympics – for practices and the annual Area Spring Games, giving special needs youth a safe and accessible environment to train and compete Wheeling Central Catholic High School (CCHS) – for games, meets and practices. CCHS does not have its own track and field and relies on the use of WJU’s facilities WJU student cheer on Special Olympic athletes at Bishop Schmitt Field. Mountain East Conference – for the more than 350 studentathletes who compete in the annual Division II Conference Championship Leukemia & Lymphoma Society – for the annual Light the Night Walk fundraiser with 500-700 people participating in the walk Faith In Action Caregivers – for its annual triathlon, the organization’s main fundraiser Bill Van Horne Track Invitational Memorial Classic – for the track meet which hosts more than 700 college-level student-athletes, their families and spectators If you are interested in supporting the HomeField Advantage Campaign, please contact Danny Sancomb, [email protected], (304) 243-2053 or Noah Mull, [email protected], (304) 243-8148. 5 WJU Graduation Day 2014 Commencement 2014 WJU students marched into WJU’s Commencement Ceremony on May 17. After the pomp and circumstance, they marched out as graduates and faced the future ready to apply what they learned while at WJU. The students were inspired by the keynote address of Patti Quigley, an activist and 9/11 widow who is the Executive Director of Razia’s Ray of Hope, an organization that works to improve the quality of life for the Afghan people. WJU alumnus Lou Volpe, ’70 was awarded an honorary degree for his dedication to Catholic education, service in the Wheeling area and WJU involvement. Volpe spent 37 years teaching religion at Wheeling Central Catholic High School and before that, St. John Central High School in Bellaire. Volpe retired from teaching in 2010. Class of 2014 at a Glance 418 degrees conferred, 297 undergraduates 72 graduated with honors 5,500 service hours Commencement speaker Patti Quigley, above, was awarded with an honorary degree following her address. Valedictorian: Adrianna Ferraro GPA: 4.0 Major: Athletic Training Future Plans: Move back to her hometown of Pittsburgh to work as a certified athletic trainer and begin preparations to apply for a physical therapy degree “Wheeling Jesuit has guided us in the direction of our passions, leading us to make some great memories with even greater people over the four years, and truly realize how much we will miss WJU. So as we start a new journey today, harness these passions and make others' lives as fulfilling as Jesuit made all of ours.” 6 WJU Rolls out the Welcome Mat Joe Gorayeb – Part of the Fabric of WJU Weekdays at 7 a.m., you will find Joe Gorayeb, WJU Security Officer, opening up the campus for business, unlocking 70 doors, checking on the campus facilities and making sure that everything is in good order for the students, faculty, staff and visitors. Gorayeb, a Wheeling native, has been a security officer with WJU for seven years. He works the morning shift and has a number of security responsibilities, dealing with traffic, parking, permits, fire alarms, incident reports, checking vehicles and investigating complaints. WJU employs nine security officers who are trained in CPR, crisis management, campus safety and emergency preparedness and response. Security officers patrol the campus 24/7. But it is how Gorayeb does his job that sets him apart and makes him a popular figure on campus. He is upbeat, enthusiastic, outgoing, and funny. He knows all the students and faculty. He not only cares for their safety and security, he cares about them as individuals. Gorayeb takes a moment to talk with WJU students Garrett Sancomb (left) & Carter Sancomb (right). “Joe is one of those people who brightens up a room when he walks in,” shares senior Jarah Ice. “He doesn't just go through the motions of being a security guard, he actually builds relationships and shows a genuine interest in the students he is protecting. We all love Joe and for the ones who have been around him all four years such as myself, he will forever be a part of our memories of Jesuit!” “The kids here are great,” says Gorayeb. “I call them my angels. I tell them that and I mean it.” He explains that there is a special atmosphere at WJU that makes him look forward to coming to work every day. “We’re family here,” he states, “and everyone is friendly from Fr. Fleming on down. It doesn’t matter who you are or what you do. That means a lot to me.” Gorayeb particularly enjoys interacting with students. He goes out of his way to befriend them and they often share their stories—dating, studying, struggles, games won and lost—and he takes time to listen. “They all know me,” he says, “and I watch over them.” WJU students Holly Deckert (center) and Paige Plesich (right) chat with Gorayeb while he’s out making rounds. Gorayeb is proud to see the hardworking students graduate. “You are so happy that they made it through. And some of them share that they are anxious about the future, but they’re going to make it out there and do great things. Many of the students that graduated keep in touch with me and let me know how it’s going for them, which is great. “Father O’Brien once told me that I was one of the motors that keep WJU running. I am proud to be part of something this big. We are going in the right direction.” 7 WJU Rolls out the Welcome Mat BOARD SPOTLIGHT Board Member Profile – Susan Donovan, Ph.D. Current city: Baltimore, MD Occupation: Executive Vice President, Loyola University Maryland Education: Saint Louis University (Ph.D.), Florida State University (M.S), and Buena Vista University (B.A.) What part of your role as a Board member gives you the greatest sense of fulfillment or satisfaction? I enjoy working with other board members, faculty, staff, administrators and students to improve the student experience at Wheeling. I have met so many talented and committed people who love Wheeling Jesuit University and it is great to be a part of the community. What do you think are the qualities that set WJU apart from other universities of its size? I have been so impressed with the excellent student research experiences that undergraduate and graduate students have with their faculty members. This doesn’t happen everywhere and it is a strength that will serve our students for the rest of their lives. Do you have any advice for current WJU students that you would like to share? No one regrets that they did not have enough fun in college but you will regret if you fail to make the most of your college experience. Break out of your comfort zone, find your passion and set the world on fire. Now is the time for taking risks on matters of importance that will shape the rest of your life. Board Member Profile – Christopher Hearing Current city: Rockville, MD Occupation: President, Direct Holdings Global Education: University of Maryland (MBA), Villanova University (BS/BA) In what ways do you want to see WJU grow and progress in the next few years? There is a unique opportunity before the entire WJU community. WJU is a terrific university with an incredible success story: high graduation rates, high post-graduate employment, and high levels of community service…the list goes on and on. There’s dedicated and very capable leadership, terrific educators, an intelligent and caring student body and a very supportive community. The fusion of those elements is extraordinarily powerful and the opportunity to make a great difference in so many lives is right before us. Working together to achieve the long term goals of WJU will feed great success across the University and far out into the community. As a successful businessman with a Jesuit education, what advice would you pass along to current WJU students and young alums? Work hard and be willing to do what it takes to be successful wherever you are and whatever you are doing. Raise your hand when works needs to be done even if it’s not specifically part of your job description. WJU taught you how to stand up and stand out, don’t lose sight of that as you move forward. 8 WJU Rolls out the Welcome Mat OF NOTE… Bishop Schmitt Field Blessed and Seeing Action After several months of construction to install a new synthetic turf field, WJU’s students, teams and community members are enjoying playing on the new, state-of-the-art Bishop Schmitt Field this spring. WJU Senior VP for Mission and Ministry Rev. Bill Rickle, S.J. blessed the field before the inaugural women’s lacrosse game in March. The field’s official dedication will take place this fall. Alumni Support Fifty years after earning their degrees from Wheeling Jesuit University (WJU), the Class of 1964 presented a $250,000 check during the University’s annual alumni weekend held June 20-22. The money will be used to establish the Class of 1964 Ignatius Scholarship Fund. Presenting a check to WJU President Rev. James Fleming are Class of 1964 graduates J. J. Lauer, Jim Smith and Geno Julian. Communitas Award Business leader and WJU alumnus Richard Riesbeck ’03 is the 2014 recipient of the Communitas Award, bestowed upon a community member who exemplifies WJU’s mission of life, leadership and service. Riesbeck is the president of Riesbeck Food Markets, Inc., a regional grocery store chain. Riesbeck began working with WJU’s Honor Society, Alpha Sigma Nu (ASN), nine years ago, donating food from his stores for ASN members to collect and distribute to those in need. Professor Awarded Equipment Grant Associate professor of psychology Dr. Michael A. Kirkpatrick was awarded a $20,000 Instrumentation Grant by the WV Higher Education Policy Commission Division of Science and Research. The grant funds laboratory equipment for state-ofthe-art classroom demonstrations and student-faculty collaborative research about Richard Riesbeck ’03 Communitas Award Winner stress, relaxation and meditation. History Professor Honored Associate Professor of History Leslie Leidel was awarded this year’s Fr. Edward Gannon Award, bestowed upon a faculty member who distinguished themselves as an outstanding teacher and scholar and exemplifies the Jesuit tradition of service. Leidel was announced as the winner at commencement and received funding to attend a conference or conduct research. WJU Volunteers Care For Local Parks The City of Wheeling and WJU students are working hand-in-hand with the Wheeling Recreation Department to maintain the Pleasanton baseball field and the playground on Edgington Lane. WJU Assistant Wrestling Coach JD Ramsey (left) and Jacob Haynes ’17 help clear the hillside at On April 23, WJU volunteers spent hours picking up trash, the Pleasanton playground. pulling weeds and clearing debris at the parks. This will be an annual project conducted twice a year. 9
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