4.23.15 Yellow Jacket

WAYNESBURG’S NEWSPAPER SINCE 1924

SPECIAL COMMENCEMENT ISSUE APRIL 23, 2015 | VOL. 91 NO. 20 THEYELLOWJACKET.ORG

602 STUDENTS — ONE GOAL

Photo illustration by Brittany Semco; Photo by Sara Faiad, Yellow Jacket

Graduates toss their caps in jubilation at the end of last year's Commencement ceremony. More than 600 undergraduate and graduate students will have the same opportunity Sunday, May 3, during the university's 164th Commencement Exercises.

More than 600 students will celebrate achievements during Commencement

By NICK FARRELL

JACKET LIFE

Executive Editor

An occasional series

More than 600 undergraduate and graduate students will receive degrees during Waynesburg University’s 164th Commencement Exercises Sunday, May 3.

As is tradition, this year’s Commencement Day festivities include the baccalaureate service at 11 a.m. and the Commencement service at 2 p.m.

“This concludes an accomplishment they’ve worked on for a few years, particularly for undergrads,” said Kerry Purnell, assistant registrar. “I think it’s a fantastic time for families to come together as well as graduates and have that celebratory day.”

All degree candidates are requested to arrive in the Marsh Center at 10 a.m., where they will robe and line up for the procession at 10:30 a.m. Students will not wear caps or hoods during the service.

The baccalaureate service will begin in Roberts Chapel at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Peter J. Paris, profes-

For undergraduate seniors, finals week serves as the last hurrah

INSIDE THIS SECTION:

By JENNY SCHOUPPE Convergence Editor

Change is inevitable. As Commencement approaches, seniors are taking notice of this fact of life.

During the past four years, most Waynesburg University seniors have spent many long nights studying, made plenty of late night Sheetz runs, and more importantly, have had valuable exsor of Christian Social Ethics at Princeton Theological Seminary, delivering the address. The procession will begin 10 minutes before the beginning of the service.

Following the baccalaureate service, the gradu-

periences and made lifelong friendships. Soon enough, the Waynesburg University class of 2015 will graduate and enter into the “real world”.

“It’s scary,” said senior exercise science major Alexandra Sherman. “I’m excited as well, but there so many ‘what ifs’.”

According to Sherman, it seems like just yes terday when she was accepted into See END on A3

ate luncheon in Benedum Dining Hall will begin.

Students may bring two guests to the luncheon, which begins at 11:30 a.m. All guests must presSee GRADUATION on A3

Student support leads to record senior gift

COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER PREVIEW – A2 BACCALAUREATE SPEAKER PREVIEW – A2 CORD RULES FOR COMMENCEMENT – A4

ABOUT OUR "NEW" NAMEPLATE Editor’s Note: This week, the Yellow Jacket is unveiling its new nameplate — but it's not altogether new.

The staff knew it wanted to return to the paper's roots and develop a traditional, gothic nameplate. After hours of testing new typefaces and designs, we ended up unable to find one that was an improvement of that original Yellow Jacket nameplate.

So in this, our 90th year as a student newspaper under this name, it seemed appropriate to adapt that original nameplate and make it our own with a modern touch.

The new nameplate which graces the top of this page is a twist on the original 1924 nameplate — it signifies our connection to our past and a reminder of our ongoing commitment to serving the campus through accurate, timely reporting.

Funding marks largest donation without an alumni match

By NICK FARRELL Executive Editor

A month’s worth of fundraising has set the framework for the completion of an historic senior gift.

Josh Dains, Student Senate president, presented a check for $8,000 to Douglas G. Lee, university president, at Wednesday’s senior class meeting. The check, which was presented on behalf of the senior class gift committee, includes donations provided by current seniors and their

Abby Wernert, Yellow Jacket

Members of the senior class gift committee presented a check to Douglas G. Lee, university president, Wednesday for $8,000. Money raised goes toward the Hanna Hall bell restoration project. xfamilies and alumni donors that will go toward the Hanna Hall bell restoration project.

With the money in hand, the next step in the project is to complete the construction

INSIDE

LOCAL LANDLORDS REACT

SAYING SO-LONG

Commencement. . . . . . . A1–A4 Spotlight. . . . . . . . . . . . . B1–B12 Campus. . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1–C5, C8 Editorial/Op-ed. . . . . . . . C6–C7 Region. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D1–D4 Sports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E1–E4

The university's new policy that will prevent off-campus living beginning in fall 2017 has some local landlords wondering how they'll fill rooms.

Senior members of the Yellow Jacket executive staff reflect on their careers at Waynesburg as part of our annual Spotlight section.

of the Hanna bell pedestal in See GIFT on A2

BASEBALL STILL ROLLING After a 5-4 win Tuesday over Westminster, the Yellow Jackets are winners of three straight.

Copyright © 2015 Waynesburg University 51 W. College St. Waynesburg, Pa. 15370

See C1

See B6

See E1

Commencement

Page A2

April 23, 2015

Baccalaureate speaker Commencement speaker brings diverse background, Christian leadership to campus shares ‘commitment to

By JOHN LYDIC

Multimedia Manger

Waynesburg University will once again have an esteemed Christian leader give one final message to the graduating class of 2015.

One speaker that will address the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students is The Most Rev. David A. Zubik, bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh.

Zubik is set to be the speaker for the graduating students at the commencement ceremony, which begins at 2 p.m on May 3.

The Rev. Jim Tinnemeyer, university chaplain and director of the Center for Leadership and Christian Ministry, thinks he is a great choice to deliver the departing message to all the gradu-

ates because he has als whose lives the background are committed to that matches the their churches, to mission of being teaching and to the a strong faithful broad dialogue of Christian leader. the Christian “I think this faith,” said Tinneis an excellent meyer. “They will choice for a whole definitely have lot of reasons,” some interesting said Tinnemeyer. insights.”

Zubik “He is a wonderful One senior Christian leader and he has a graduating is looking for diverse background.” the push and words to send The choice of Zubik and the class off with what they the other speaker for Com- have learned and apply it to mencement day, Rev. Peter their lives.

J. Paris, professor of Chris“I hope to get a message tian social ethics at Princ- of encouragement and one eton Theological Seminary, final sending off,” said Kyle were chosen to help give the Digiandomenico, senior students a send off speech psychology major. “I hope that would leave a lasting to hear words of affirmation impression of the mission of and truth. I hope to gather Waynesburg. with those, one last time, all “These are two individu- together, and know that we

are now family.”

As the final moments of Zubik’s speech rings around the campus Digiandomenico wants to just take in the message and notice the final pieces of his time at Waynesburg.

“I am looking forward to looking. Looking back on the past four years in celebration with my colleagues,” said Digiandomenico. “I’m looking forward to reminiscing on all that we’ve been through and everything we’ve done. I looking forward to celebrating a rite of passage. I’m looking forward to to the next step. Although it may be ambiguous, if it’s anything like the past four years, I have nothing to worry about.”

Services for commencement begin at 11 a.m. with the baccalaureate service in Roberts Chapel.

Career Services lends hand to seniors Outgoing students encouraged to seek resume review, other services Nika ANSCHUETZ

News Multimedia Editor

Sixty seconds.

A resume has approximately 60 seconds until it is pushed aside into a stack of other resumes.

Newly minted alumni are looking for one thing: a job.

A year after graduation, recent surveys show that 97 percent of Waynesburg University graduates are either attending graduate school or pursuing a career related to their major.

Career Services, tucked away on the third floor of Stover, offers a variety of services to those who are still enrolled at Waynesburg and those who have graduated.

Marie Coffman, director of Career Services, helps students as well as alumni improve their resumes and cover letters.

Throughout the course of the year, Career Services hosts different job fairs specializing in different fields or industries. Every October, there is a nursing job fair, where senior and junior

nursing students can network for possible externships or career opportunities.

Coffman believes that students should get an early start to their job hunt.

“During fall and winter breaks, graduating seniors should be looking for jobs,” said Coffman.

In the fall, Theresa Butler, senior accounting major, took her resume up to Career Services. She had heard about the importance of having a professional resume and she wanted to make sure her resume looked the best.

“With the help of Marie Coffman and Career Services, I was able to restructure my resume,” said Butler.

“This allowed me to obtain many job interviews this year and it landed me a job right after graduation.”

According to experts, resumes are meant to help potential job candidates in interviews.

“An employer will look at a resume for maybe 60 seconds,” said Coffman. “Employers are usually looking through dozens of resumes

so it’s important to grab the employer’s attention within a first glance at a resume.”

Networking is a key component during the job search.

“It’s all about networking,” said Coffman. “If there’s a place where you’d like to work, see if you know anyone that works there or has worked there.”

Waynesburg University professors can also be a helpful tool during a job or internship search.

Joshuah Dains, senior business management major, got his internship at Mylan through a professor.

“A business professor helped me secure an internship with Mylan last year,” said Dains. “And it was through my internship that I locked in a job there after graduation.”

Soon-to-be graduates and alumni can look for careers on www.collegecentral.com/ waynesburg to find employers or potential jobs.

On the website, employers post both part-time and fulltime jobs – as well as intern-

ships – which are available to those who create an online profile. The online profile outlines the types of industries as well as jobs an online candidate seeks.

Coffman believes that looking for a full-time job is a full-time job in itself. She also encourages students and alumni to remain in contact with Career Services throughout their professional career.

“If I ever decide to change jobs, I’ll make sure to send her a copy of my resume and cover letter to review first,” said Butler.

In addition to resumes, cover letters are another important part of finding employment. Career Services can help job seekers to write a strong cover letter.

“Although cover letters aren’t asked for as much, its still important to know how to write one,” said Coffman. “Cover letters should be at least three paragraphs.

The first paragraph should address why you’re applySee CAREERS on A4

Gift: Hanna Bell project remains on schedule Continued from A1

the courtyard between Miller Hall and Hanna Hall.

“I’m very impressed with the senior class and their response and being willing to donate their personal money and getting their parents on board,” said Dains, who also serves as a member of the senior class gift committee.

“A lot of students have commented, ‘if it wasn’t this gift, I wouldn’t be donating,’ so that’s been a reminder as to how our fellow seniors can connect with the gift and they see the value in it. But even larger than that, I feel like the university – whether it’s alumni, administration, faculty, staff or underclassmen – all feel at least some sort of bond to it. Everyone is claiming ownership of the gift, which I wasn’t expecting.”

Vikki Beppler, assistant director of Alumni Relations, echoed Dains’ praise of students who donated to the Hanna bell restoration project, saying this year’s senior gift has received more financial support from students than any previous senior gift.

“I’m extremely proud and overwhelmed by how many seniors and their families have given. What we have seen, too, is not just seniors calling home and asking mom and dad to donate on their behalf, but we’ve seen a lot of student gifts given,” said Beppler. “I’m really proud of the seniors stepping up and raising the money on their own. It’s probably the most senior gift donations that we’ve ever had before. It’s the

most a senior class has raised on their own without a match gift.”

When plans for this senior gift were unveiled early this month, Dains and Terry Sattler, director of Facilities Planning and Management, promised the Hanna bell would be prominently displayed by Commencement Sunday. According to Dains, May 3 still serves as the target date.

“As of right now, it looks like we’re on track to be ringing the bell during Commencement,” said Dains.

The project is moving along as planned, according to both Dains and Sattler. The planter once situated in the courtyard has been removed and replaced with the base of the pedestal. Dains said the sandstone cap will be added soon, and after that, the bell will be installed in its new permanent location.

As for the bell, Sattler said the refurbishing process has moved along smoothly. Vincent Allen Inc. Metal Restoration, which is overseeing the refurbishing process, has removed the graffiti on the bell and has returned it to its original state.

According to Dains, one small crack on the back of the bell appears irreparable, but it shouldn’t impact the bell’s ability to ring. He added that no one will test the bell until Sunday, meaning the bell’s actual sound will remain a mystery until Commencement.

Dains is excited for that moment when the class of 2015 becomes the first class to have the Hanna bell mark their achievements in more than a century.

“Whenever we ring the bell, it’s not about having the best quality sound possible. It’s about the reason behind why we’re ringing the bell,” said Dains. “So the fact that there’s a crack in it, if anything, adds more to it.

It doesn’t take away from the significance of what’s happening.”

He added that he’s grateful for the outpouring of support from the many different channels that helped make this restoration project come into fruition.

“I want to give a big thank you to everybody who has helped make this possible,”

said Dains, who admired the work of the senior class gift committee members as well as contributions made

by Heidi Szuminsky, executive director of Institutional Advancement, and Beppler.

“From Terry [Sattler] and the guys in maintenance, to President Lee for jumping on board and working with me through the process and largely the senior class for taking ownership of it, going along with the vision and wanting to leave a legacy on campus that is unparalleled with anything else we’ve done in our four years here as undergraduate students.”

broad Christian church’

Fleegle.

Tinnemeyer believes that both Paris and commenceAs yet another academic ment speaker, Bishop David year winds down, current se- Zubik, are excellent choices niors are looking forward to to speak in front of the stugraduation and life beyond dent body for graduation Waynesburg Uniservices. versity. Waynes“I think having b u r g ’s a n n u a l an esteemed man Baccalaureate and of the church, an Commencement individual who has services will be committed his life held on Sunday, to the church and May 3, to honor to teaching, will approximately 730 add to the broad undergraduate, dialogue of the graduate and docChristian faith,” toral students, acsaid Tinnemeyer.

Paris cording to a press “I think they will release on the Waynesburg certainly have some great University website. insight and both are really Serving as the honorary down to earth people. They speaker at the Baccalaureate speak in a way that’s engagservice will be the Rev. Peter ing and inspiring.”

J. Paris, the Elmer G. HomFleegle believes Paris will righausen professor emeritus not only add to the Baccaof Christian social ethics at laureate service, but will be Princeton Theological Semi- the perfect conclusion to his nary.

Waynesburg career.

“Dr. Paris comes out of the “I think the Baccalaureate Baptist tradition and I think and Commencement servicit is a good example of our es will wrap up my time here commitment to the broad as an undergrad at WaynesChristian church here,” said burg by putting everything the Rev. James Tinnemeyer, into perspective for me,” said university chaplain. “We’re Fleegle. “It helped me realize a Christian school and what how blessed I’ve been here in that means is that we are re- my time as an undergrad.” ally centered around Jesus According to the press Christ and His church and release, Paris has also been all of its expressions.” elected to several national ofOne of the seniors being fices, including the presidenhonored at the Baccalaureate cies of the American Theoservice, Jacob Fleegle, said he logical Society, the Society is looking forward to what of Christian Ethics and the Paris has to say.

Society for the Study of Black “I am looking forward to Religion and the American seeing how [Paris] can take Academy of Religion. his message he has for us and The Baccalaureate service relate it to our experiences at will be held in Roberts ChaWaynesburg University,” said pel at 11 a.m.

By MATT KOLL

Editorial Assistant

Graduates included in Alumni Relations’ summertime plans

By JENNY SCHOUPPE Convergence Editor

As May 3 approaches, students of the Waynesburg University class of 2015 realize that they will soon no longer be students, but alumni of the university.

As the class of 2015 prepares to move on, the Office of Alumni Relations is working hard to make sure these soon-to-be-alumni stay connected to Waynesburg University.

The first event that the Office of Alumni Relations has prepared is an All Alumni Pirates Night at PNC Park on June 12. All alumni are invited to come and enjoy the game. Those who attend receive a free t-shirt and small snacks and gifts from the Alumni Relations Office.

This event is one of the few events that will cost some money.

A big event that the Office

of Alumni Relations holds every year is the Recent Grad Event in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Alumni from the classes of 2005-2015 can gather and network.

“This is a great event for recent graduates to attend,” said Victoria Beppler, Assistant Director of Alumni Relations. “It will allow them to make connections with alumni in the Pittsburgh area that are in their industry.”

Though the Office of Alumni Relations has only a tentative schedule, there are plenty of other events that they hope to offer recent alumni.

During Homecoming weekend October 2-3, alumni are welcomed back to their Alma Mater to participate in numerous festivities.

On Nov. 19, there will be a Paint and Brew for recent grads. This free event will See EVENTS on A3

Commencement

April 23, 2015

Page A3

End: For some seniors, it’s hard to believe the finish line is near Continued from A1

Waynesburg.

“Getting accepted into Waynesburg was so exciting and it’s crazy how fast these four years have gone,” said Sherman.

Though four years has gone quick for Sherman, she claims it has been filled with so many amazing memories and experiences.

“My mission trip to Romania was one of the greatest experiences I’ve ever had,” said Sherman. “Sporting events, Relay for Life and making friends has also made college unforgettable.”

Sherman, a member of the university’s cross country team, claims that she will take away so much from her four years here at Waynesburg University.

“Through athletics and school work, I feel I have gained a lot of the basic skills necessary to make it in the real world,” said Sherman.

“I credit my coaches Chris Hardie and Michelle Cross for always seeing the best in me and always believing in me. I’ll definitely miss having them around.”

Though Sherman has mixed feelings about graduation, she is looking forward

Sara Faiad, Yellow Jacket

Jenna Dorazio, a member of the class of 2014, walks with her diploma at Commencement last year. That same experience awaits a new crop of Waynesburg graduates in just 10 days. to the future. She accepted a swimming coach position at Kids First Swim Schools.

Sherman hopes that this position will one day help her

achieve a position as a swimming coach at a high level.

Similar to Sherman, seniors Devlin Coughlin and Shelby O’Brien have mixed

feelings about the changes ahead of them.

“Though I’m excited about the new adventures ahead, it’s bittersweet leaving this

place,” said Coughlin, an international culture studies and political science major.

“I have grown so comfortable with the community here.”

Coughlin speaks fondly of her time spent on mission trips to Arizona, Costa Rica and Romania, as well as her time spent here on campus with friends and professors.

“I was so lucky to be taught by such amazing professors,” said Coughlin. “I definitely will keep in touch with them.”

According to Coughlin, Dr. Wadell and the Rev. Poteet have impacted her life tremendously and she hopes that she will be able to continue a relationship with them after graduation.

O’Brien agrees that the people here at Waynesburg University have left a lasting impact on her life.

“The professors in my department have been one of my favorite parts about attending Waynesburg,” said psychology major O’Brien.

“My friends have also made these past years an amazing experience. They have always been there for me and I’m going to miss being able to just walk over to their dorm to hang out.”

Both Coughlin and O’Brien plan on attending graduate school to further their education. They both feel that their experiences have prepared them for all their future endeavors.

Admissions readies for next incoming class Changes to curriculum proposed for new year

By SAMANTHA PEER Op/Ed Editor

While seniors prepare to leave Waynesburg University behind, the 2015-16 incoming freshman class is preparing to begin their journey at Waynesburg.

Currently, about 330 new students will arrive on campus this fall, a number larger than those committed this time last year and in 2012.

Of the 330 new students, 60 percent are female while 40 percent are male, a statistical disproportion typical for this time of year; trends indicate that males decide what college they will attend later than females Thus far, students will be coming from as far away as Alaska, Wyoming and Montana, as well as Germany.

“I think the large enrollment for 2015-2016 is due to our push for the April 15 deadline and our implementation of new communication methods,” said Jessica Sumpter, director of admissions.

The Office of Admissions sent targeted emails and text messages to push a March 5 and April 15 deadline. Those

that adhered to the March 5th deadline now have their housing assignments.

“This year we implemented targeted emails and text messaging to push those dates and bring in deposits so that the incoming students are eligible to fill out their new student forms,” said Jacquelin Palko, assistant director of admissions. “Because we stressed this deadline, we received deposits from 30 new students in just four days.”

The national deadline date for students to receive refunds for their enrollment deposits is May 1.

“We try to push the May 1 deadline, but we still have students that apply and are accepted throughout the summer,” said Palko.

The admissions office decided to implement new communication methods this year in an attempt to vary their methods, and not depend solely on one communication channel.

“We are trying to diversify our communication and not solely rely on a postcard,” said Sumpter. “Trying to hit every form of communication, including texting which

was a new method, was a huge plus.”

Some of the ways admissions diversifies its methods is in advertising in specific college search magazines, Integrated Marketing digital campaigns, open houses, campus visits, phone calls and emails, in addition to several other methods.

The admissions office also tries to incorporate human interaction in their outreach.

“We did a late call night in admissions recently,” said Palko. “As a team, we stayed until about 7 p.m. to make phone calls for students that have received their financial aid packages to make sure that they understand them.

This ensures were not just communicating electronically, but that we are including human interaction to help cultivate relationships with the prospective students.”

Efforts to attract students begin in the fall with travel.

“We visited over 200 high schools and around 150 college fairs,” said Sumpter.

“Matt McNeil travels to California while Dave Floyd goes to Maine and New England.

Matt McNeil traveled to Florida for a Florida circuit fair as

well this year.”

While recruitment efforts start early, email workflows are utilized to ensure steady communication with prospective students.

“Email workflows is an automated process where emails are going out about once a week to people depending on what stage they are in the process,” said Sumpter. “It allows us to constantly reach out to people without setting it up on a weekly basis. That has been very helpful.”

Admissions finds that the key point in prospective students making a decision is in visiting the campus.

“We have a lot of students that visit more than once,” said Sumpter. “Recently, I spoke with a sophomore student that has already visited three times. She said that Waynesburg is her choice and that it’s likely that she’ll come here. She said that she has visited other schools but she likes Waynesburg University the most. I think that is a great example of how our campus community sells itself. Once someone comes for a visit, that is one of the most critical points.”

Graduation: More than 600 to walk May 3

Continued from A1

ent tickets at the door, which were provided to students in their graduation packets.

Students may also obtain their honors cords and academic excellence pins after the conclusion of the baccalaureate service until shortly before 1 p.m. (The university regulates academic regalia adornments. For more on these policies, see AA4 .)

At 12:30 p.m., guest seating begins for the Commencement service on the Miller Hall lawn, with the Rudy Marisa Fieldhouse serving as the inclement weather site.

According to the university’s website, guests who do not wish to sit outside during the ceremony may view a live stream remotely inside Miller Hall, Buhl Hall, the Goodwin Performing Arts Center and the Stover Campus Center. Guests who do not have tickets to the Commencement seating inside the inclement weather site are asked to utilize these remote-viewing sites.

Graduates must arrive in the gymnasium at 1 p.m. to begin lining up for the Commencement procession. According to instructions on the university website,

COMMENCEMENT DAY SCHEDULE Sunday, May 3

10 a.m.

Graduating students and faculty members report to the Marsh Center in Roberts Chapel

10:30 a.m.

Procession line forms for baccalaureate service in Roberts Chapel; guests may begin entering chapel

10:50 a.m.

Procession begins for baccalaureate service

11 a.m.

Baccalaureate service begins

11:30 a.m.

Benedum Dining Hall opens for Graduate Luncheon; graduates and up to two guests my provide luncheon tickets at the door

1 p.m.

Deadline to pick up honor cords and academic excellence pins in the old gym; procession line for commencement ceremony begins to form in the old gym

1:55 p.m.

Student procession for commencement ceremony begins

2 p.m.

Commencement begins on the lawn of Miller Hall (inclement site: Rudy Marisa Fieldhouse)

APPROXIMATELY 4 p.m. Graduating students receive diplomas, become Waynesburg University alumni promptness is required; any WHAT TO WEAR student who arrives late to

the lineup will risk receiving his or her diploma at the end

Baccalaureate: Students do not wear caps, hoods or gowns

of the granting of degrees portion of the ceremony and may not sit with other students in that specific degree category.

Dr. James Bush, assistant faculty marshal, will assist students during the lineup and procession. Graduates will line up in alphabetical order, double file, based on their degree.

Commencement exercises begin at 2 p.m. The Rev. David A. Zubik, bishop of the Diocese of Pittsburgh, will deliver the Commencement address.

According to instructions from the university, students are not to carry flowers during the procession, use their cell phones at any time or wear high-heeled shoes during the outdoor ceremony.

Caps are to be worn throughout Commencement, with exceptions during the invocation, National Anthem and benediction.

Student participation in Commencement exercises is a requirement. The Office of the Registrar requires any students wishing to opt out of the obligation to contact them and state their conflict.

The Commencement and baccalaureate services can be viewed live online at waynesburg.edu.

By ABBY WERNERT

Chief Photographer

Every year, the curriculum throughout each department undergoes many changes.

In some cases, the changes are major; while in others, changes are much smaller.

Students returning to Waynesburg University for the 2015-16 school year, as well as students entering the university either as freshmen or transfers, will get to see the changes that will be instated for the following year.

“This year we had a lot of proposals from across the campus,” said Kristine Schiffbauer, instructor of visual communication and the chair of the Curriculum and Educational Policy Committee.

Every year, the committee as well as the Waynesburg University faculty must approve proposals submitted for a change to the curriculum in full. Once approved, any programs will then be See CLASSES on A4

Events: New alumni invited to interact Continued from A3

allow recent grads to relax and paint crafts and drink coffee, and catch up with other alumni.

Service is a huge aspect of Waynesburg University, and the alumni office tries to still offer service events for alumni.

All Waynesburg University Alumni and friends are welcomed to register for the Alumni Mission Trip: Nashville Urban Farm from July 20-22, 2015.

The trip to Nashville, Tennessee will cost around $225 per person plus travel and lodging expenses. Registration for the trip ends June 8.

This trip will be the alumni offices first-ever domestic Alumni Service Trip to Nashville, Tennessee in July.

Those who participate will serve with Hands On Nashville at their Urban Farm.

Produce harvest from the Farm is used in Hands on Nashville programs to give youth the opportunity to harvest, prepare and taste healthy foods.

Those recent alumni who do not plan on staying in the Greater Pittsburgh area will also have plenty of chances to stay connected and network with other alumni.

The Alumni Relations team will be traveling to Detroit, Cleveland, Richmond, Las Vegas, Dallas, San Diego and New York City, just to name a few, in the fall to hold networking events for alumni all across the United States.

“We are going to be in a lot of different places,” said Beppler. “So no matter where you are, you will be able to reconnect with Waynesburg University.”

For those students of the

Waynesburg University class of 2015 that want to get involved and stay connected, there are two simple steps to do so.

First, update your personal information with the Alumni Relations Office before graduating. Though this information was supposed to be updated during senior exit interviews, there are still other ways to update one’s information. Recent grads can update their contact information by creating an account on waynesburgunited. com or contacting the University’s Alumni Relations Office.

By updating information, the Alumni Relations Office will be able to notify recent grads on upcoming events and provide useful resources for the work field.

It is also important to keep the Alumni Relations Office updated as well. Any change in career or personal life, the alumni office wants to help celebrate with the alumni.

“We like to send small gifts to alumni when they get a new job or get married,” said Beppler. “This allows us to stay connected and involved in the lives of recent grads.”

Secondly, recent grads should follow Waynesburg University Alumni on social media. The alumni relations team updates their LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter regularly with events that all alumni can attend.

“I graduated from Waynesburg in 2011 and so much has changed since then,” said Beppler. “Luckily, I’ve been able to stay on campus and witness the changes.

Most alumni do not get to experience the changes, so I feel it is so important for recent grads to try and stay connected.”

Commencement

Page A4

April 23, 2015

University-sanctioned cord policy remains consistent

By REBECCA BURCHAM Copy Editor

The graduation ceremonies for the class of 2015 are a mere 10 days away; for some seniors, that day of graduation cannot come soon enough. As the days get busier in preparation for commencement, a question that arises every year has again made its way to the forefront of discussion: what is the policy regarding honor cords?

Ac c o r d i n g t o w w w. waynesburg.edu/com-

mencement, a special link on the Waynesburg University website – which contains all of the necessary information graduating seniors need to know about commencement – academic honor cords are permissible to wear during the graduation ceremony if certain criteria are met.

Waynesburg University wishes to preserve the dignity of the graduation ceremonies for all students while appropriately recognizing students who have earned academic honors, states the

website. To that end, in regards to honors recognition, the university holds the following policy on acceptable honor cords for graduation ceremonies: Honor cords may only be worn if they fit one of two criteria; the cords are issued by the Waynesburg University Office of the Registrar, the Waynesburg University Honors Academy or an approved national collegiate honorary society that has a local chapter on campus and a Waynesburg University faculty advisor, or the cords

have been awarded based on academic performance by the student wearing them.

In addition, the university provost must approve all national collegiate honorary societies – and any exceptions to this policy – in advance of the graduation ceremonies.

According to Mary Cummings, vice president of Student Services, the protocol for wearing honor cords during the graduation ceremonies has remained consistent for several years.

Due to the significance

of the commencement ceremonies and their procedures, Cummings advises any seniors who are unsure to go straight to the source and look at the policy on the university website.

“There was some misunderstanding at some point through some discussions,” said Cummings. “Usually the written policy is easier.

With word of mouth, sometimes someone misunderstands and says something verbally [that is incorrect.]”

“If you’re hearing talk in different directions, bring it

back to looking at what’s in writing on the policy,” added Cummings.

In order to prevent as much confusion as possible, information regarding academic honor cords – along with other important commencement-related procedures – was also addressed during the mandatory senior meeting on April 22, according to Cummings.

For more information regarding the graduation ceremonies, procedures and policies, visit www.waynesburg.edu/commencement.

Director of GAPS Summer renovations await Buhl Hall; Phase 4 of Stewart project nears end Counseling set to retire in June

By KIMMI BASTON and ANTHONY CONN For the Yellow Jacket

well as a ground paramedic.

He carries these experiences around with him.

Looking back on his teach“Some of the research and ing career, Dr. Scott Tracy has my area of service continues no regrets. to be mental health emergenTracy, director of graduate cy work,” said Tracy. counseling proTracy attended grams at WaynesCalifornia Univerburg University, sity of Pennsylvania will be retiring for an undergradufrom the university ate degree in both at the end of the secounseling and scimester. ence education.

His teaching caHe taught midreer has spanned dle and high school decades and has science in the Faybeen both prosperette County area for Tracy ous and fulfilling. a number of years.

Tracy started his job at In addition to teaching at Waynesburg in December of the University of Pittsburgh 2009.

Johnstown, where he taught He was instated as the di- undergraduate students scirector of graduate counseling ence education courses, he programs. At the time, the went on to teach graduate graduate counseling program counseling classes at Chatham was very small.

University in Oakland, Penn“I oversaw a program that sylvania. really flourished in numbers At Waynesburg, he had and also added the Council the opportunity to blend two for Accreditation of Coun- of his passions: teaching and seling & Related Educational counseling.

Programs accreditation, “I’m a counselor educator, which is the national accred- so that’s the blend of the two itation for counseling,” said of them,” said Tracy. “Even in Tracy. session, I’m a teacher.”

With the help of Tracy and Throughout his many years his team of counseling faculty, as a teacher, he has kept in in five short years Waynes- contact with students from burg University acquired his first collegiate class. national accreditation, two “I’ve always been a conspecialized masters programs structivist in my approach to and a Ph.D. program. teaching,” said Tracy. “I think Tracy believes that the I’ve always done a good job three specialized counseling at keeping myself centered graduate programs really set around the students. It’s not Waynesburg apart from other about the topic that I’m teachuniversities. ing but it’s about the student “We really went from a pro- that I’m helping.” gram that was relatively small In addition to working at to one that’s now a player at Waynesburg, Tracy also runs the state level,” said Tracy. “I a private practice in Unionwould consider us to be one town. of the best counseling schools “It’s real low-key and it’s alin the region because of the ways a way for me to practice specialization.” my skill in counseling so that Waynesburg has one of I was a better teacher,” said only three CACREP accred- Tracy. “But I also enjoy the ited addiction-counseling counseling piece. I enjoy beprograms in the country. ing a psychotherapist.”

The impact that Tracy has After leaving Waynesburg, made can be felt around the Tracy will continue to run his country. private practice.

It was before Waynesburg One of the things about that Tracy found his passion Waynesburg that Tracy for teaching and counseling. cherishes the most are the One of his earliest recol- relationships. He has created lections was dressing up as a meaningful relationships with fireman. His love for helping both the students and the facothers was an early passion ulty. of his.

It’s just the very deep relaFor many years, Tracy was tionships that I’ve made with a paramedic. He worked in students, program and aluma stat-medevac, an emergen- ni,” said Tracy. “These will be cy helicopter, for UPMC as lifelong relationships.”

By NIKA ANSCHUETZ

News Multimedia Editor

While students are happily finishing their work as the school year comes to a close, some members of Waynesburg’s staff are just getting started. Terry Sattler, director of facilities planning and management, says that much is planned for Waynesburg’s campus this summer, including repairs and upgrades.

The university has plans to complete a minor renovation of Buhl Hall’s fourth floor, which is home to the Department of Communication.

Sattler says there are plans to renovate the Mac Lab as well as room 416, a large room with the capacity to hold 50 people. If these renovations occur, they would take place during the summer.

Buhl’s first renovation site this summer, McCance auditorium, is most likely expected get new carpet shortly after commencement.

Students have been fully aware of Stewart Hall’s renovation, with new improvements slowly showing the form of the designer’s master plan in what has become the university's largest all-time renovation investment Sattler said that work in Stewart Hall is one-third of the way done on the third floor and students can ex-

pect it to be ready for classes this coming fall semester.

This floor will be home to the computer science, math and physics programs, as well some shared classroom space, after the completion of phase four.

“The entire third floor was demoed completely,” said Sattler. “There was nothing left but the exterior walls and the steel structure holding the building up. Currently, the new wall framing is installed, the electric has been completed and inspected and the rest of the mechanical, electrical and plumbing contractors are getting their interior work done.”

Work on the fourth floor is expected to start in May, with completion in time for the spring semester of 2016, putting the project slightly ahead of schedule. Once finished, this floor will be home to the biology department.

The current plan is for Stewart Hall to be completely finished in 2017.

As a result of the ongoing project, some biology classes will be moved into classroom space in the Rudy Marisa Fieldhouse, an area that several science classes are already utilizing. Biology faculty members would remain in the office space at 74 Wayne Street, which they are currently using.

So far, Sattler has received positive feedback from those

who have observed the changes on the fifth floor.

“Everybody who’s gone and looked at the fifth floor has really liked it,” said Sattler.

“It’s just kind of a sneak peak of what the building’s going to look like when it’s all done.”

Sattler believes the renovation is beneficial for not only current students and faculty, but for everyone who will be utilizing Stewart Hall in the future.

“It’s been a very positive impact, both from a prospective student and parent aspect and for our students who had to put up with a lot of disadvantages through the construction project,” said Sattler. “It’s a much needed renovation, and it’s going to be nothing but a positive for all the departments involved in Stewart Hall.”

In addition to academic buildings, Sattler said that the University looks to maintain quality on-campus living by inspecting student houses.

Students currently live in only eight of eleven houses.

There are also plans to work on some of the dorms. This work includes careful repair on infrastructure and drain lines, as well as improving hot water accessibility.

Sattler said that even though students will not be able to see these improvements with their eyes, the work will not go unnoticed.

“Being a small university,

we struggle with the types and ages of the buildings we have,” said Sattler. “We have buildings that go back into the 1960’s, like the underclassman dorms. Even the little things we do…they really pop and make a big impact on the student population as did the lounge renovations in Denny and Burns Halls that were completed last year.”

Sattler has been at Waynesburg for two and a half years.

He previously worked at Robert Morris University and Washington and Jefferson College. While at Washington and Jefferson, he saw what improvements could be made with a strong line of support.

According to Sattler, there is a lot of input that goes into these campus projects at Waynesburg. Many opinions are honored when deciding what the greatest needs on campus are.

“Knowing that we can’t replace a lot of our old buildings, it’s good that we can reinvest in them and give something good to the students,” said Sattler.

Reflecting on past accomplishments on campus, Sattler said that it is all worth the careful planning and work behind the scenes.

“I get a lot of satisfaction even from the small improvements that we’re capable of making to the campus,” said Sattler.

Classes: Major, minor curriculum changes approved Continued from A3

presented to the trustees.

According to Schiffbauer, there are curriculum changes made every year and every proposal for a new program has a different reason. Most of the time, proposals for change are made to keep up with the departments’ needs as well as the needs of the university.

“Curriculum changes happen for reasons,” said Schiffbauer. “The committee works hard to make sure the changes work into the overall curriculum so that there are no negatives.”

The programs approved for the 2015-16 school year include both minor and major changes.

The smaller changes are usually revisions made to the catalog that comes out for every year. As some majors or classes are no longer used, they are taken out of the catalog or replaced with the updated curriculum and classes.

“Changes to the catalog are always under review,” said Schiffbauer.

According to Schiffbauer, the highlights of the curriculum proposals this year were the revision of the Honors Program, the creation of a

public relations minor and the creation of a financial mathematics minor through the Department of Business Administration.

Changes made to the curriculum, such as the creation of minors or an update to an already existing program, are undertaken to provide

students with the best education.

“I would certainly hope the curriculum changes are helpful to the students,” said Schiffbauer, who stated the changes and revisions made to the curriculum are meant to improve the learning experience of students.

FOX FORD INC.

743 E. HIGH ST., WAYNESBURG, PA 15370 WWW.FOXFORDMERC.COM (724) 627-3151

Careers: Professional services offered to seniors before graduation

Continued from A2

ing. The second paragraph should talk about the skills that you have that match the job description. And lastly, the third paragraph should thank the employer for reading the cover letter.”

Dains is thankful for the help that Coffman provided him through reworking his resume.

“She was instrumental in helping me create a resume

that accurately portrayed my skills and matched them up to a job,” said Dains. “It was great to have someone go over the details with me and help me along the process.”

Waynesburg University offers a variety of services to aid alumni. The Career Services office is another tool meant to be used by both current students and alumni.

For more information about Career Services, please contact Marie Coffman at mcoffman@waynesburg.edu.

QUICK LANE AT FOX FORD INC. 901 E. HIGH ST., WAYNESBURG, PA 15370 (724) 627-0901

section B

April 23, 2015 | waynesburg university | theyellowjacket.org

Valedictorian’s message: ‘Pay it forward’ Student believes

By Rebecca Burcham Copy Editor

Isaiah Cochran could easily be called one of Waynesburg University’s most involved students. Adding up his academics and extracurricular activities, he might just be the busiest too.

But, he still makes time to ‘pay it forward.’

Cochran, who is originally from Akron, Ohio, had several reasons behind his decision to attend a small college in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania.

“I chose Waynesburg University because of the faithbased aspect, as well as I had a full ride here and I could continue to play tennis,” said Cochran.

“So those three things definitely played a role in me coming to Waynesburg.”

Cochran earned an academic, full-ride scholarship to attend Waynesburg, and he chose to major in biology and pre-med for two related reasons.

“I chose pre-med because I’ve always wanted to be involved in science, but more specifically I’ve always wanted to be involved in the clinical side of science,” said Cochran.

“That’s why I knew I wanted to go into medicine, and also to continue to pay it forward.”

“Biology, I feel, is a more well-rounded degree,” added Cochran.

“I got to take a good amount of chemistry, I got to take some physics. If I would have chosen chemistry [as a major], I would have only had a couple of classes in biology. Medicine if more of a biological field than a chemistry-based field, so that’s why I chose biology.”

In addition to being cocaptain of the men’s varsity tennis team at Waynesburg, he also helped to initiate the American Medical Student Association (AMSA) on campus and is a current na-

Photo courtesy Isaiah Cochran

Biology and pre-med double major Isaiah Cochran was involved in clubs and athletics while earning Valedictorian of the Class of 2015. tional board member of that organization; he was elected as a Global Health Chair of AMSA in February, and he will be starting medical school with that prestigious position.

Cochran was also the outreach events coordinator for Waynesburg University’s American Chemistry Society, and was treasurer for the Black Student Union when it was an organization on Waynesburg’s campus; however, his favorite memories occurred over the course of the past year.

“The memories that stick out to me are the memories I have from senior year, both being a part of tennis and the American Medical Student Association both locally and

nationally,” said Cochran.

“Now, being a senior and being accepted to med school and having played tennis for four years, now I see even more than before. Students and other people look to me for advice, so I really feel like I can pay it forward in this position.”

“Next year, as a first-year med student, it’ll be a lot different. I’ll be starting over again,” he added.

“But I’m really enjoying being able to help those who are underclassmen, on the tennis courts and in the classroom and in regard to AMSA.” Cochran believes that his study habits in high school made the transition to college life easier, but he still had

plenty to learn at Waynesburg, both on his own and with help from faculty.

“If you are motivated, you will definitely find the help you need here at Waynesburg, versus at a large school where you might not see your advisor but once a semester or even once a year,” he added.

Dr. Marietta Wright, assistant professor of biology, states that Cochran is a very accomplished individual.

“I have seen him grow and mature over the past four years, from learning how to navigate the sciences as a freshman to becoming a leader amongst his peers by forming the American Medical Student Association, excelling in tennis, and mentoring his fellow students,” said Wright.

“He is an inspiration for others to learn how to achieve their goals.”

Before heading out into the workforce, Cochran has one final assignment to complete for Waynesburg University.

“I have the honor of giving the Valedictorian speech, and I guess the synopsis of the speech is to pay it forward,” he said.

Cochran had the opportunity to intern during two summers at prestigious, Ivy League schools.

The first internship, during the 2013 summer, Cochran was selected from a pool of thousands of students to participate in the Sackler/NSF REU: Integrated Research at the Frontiers of the Biological, Physical and Engineering Sciences at Yale University's Raymond and Beverly Sackler Institute.

The second internship, during the 2014 summer, Cochran interned as a Catalyst SCRPT at Harvard University and gained research and hands-on experience.

As he goes on to medical school after graduation, Cochran seeks to continue to ‘pay it forward’ through his future career.

the people of WU make it outstanding

By Chelsea Dicks Managing Editor

You have seen him everywhere on campus.

He could be parking his motorcycle, attending a commuter meeting, the first one in the cafeteria some mornings meeting with Dr. Stratton, walking up the stairs in Stover sporting a swanky suit on his way to lead the weekly Student Senate meeting or walking his ‘rat dog’ Motto around campus.

The man is everywhere.

The man is involved in everything.

And Josh Dains tries to be involved with everyone, because in his opinion, people are most important.

“It is the people around me that have made the memories,” said senior business major Josh Dains as he remembers the highlights from his past four years at Waynesburg University.

Dains could have said being a prominent figure within the RJ Tonks fundraiser that successfully raised over $8,000.

“It is the people around me that have made the memories.”

Josh Dains

Business major

He could have said becoming President of Student Senate.

He could have said creating the first ever Kairos trip that was also a success.

He could have said so many things that would have shown all of his accomplishments while here at Waynesburg University.

But instead, he takes cred-

it for nothing, because he knows these successes were much bigger than him.

“I’m really proud of what we have been able to do as a group together these last couple of years,” said Dains.

“They have taught me a lot about myself.”

He says one of the largest things he learned while at Waynesburg University is how to work with other people of all kinds.

“You are surrounded by people your whole life, and I feel that is one of the things that has really had a big impact on me,” said Dains. “To work in cohesion rather than opposing forces is something I know I will take with me.”

He already has a job lined up after college, as well as a beautiful girlfriend, a house where he can mooch off his parents and a plan for his future.

Yet, he questions whether he is ready to leave a place where he knows the routine, the way of life and the customs for a whole new environment filled with unknowns.

“The one thing I am really going to miss is being able to walk around and smile, say hi, and high-five 100 people in one day,” said Dains. “As soon as you leave college, your stomping grounds no longer exist. You are suddenly alumni to this place. You are a figment of an imagination to most people, or just a memory and then suddenly, it’s creating a familiarity with another place. It’s kind of scary but also exciting.”

Dains will be working as a Financial Analyst for Mylan Pharmaceuticals in Morgantown, West Virginia, where he interned last summer, after he graduates from Waynesburg in May.

Kopas: ‘Make friends; that’s what gets you through’

By Danielle Schuyler Editorial Assistant

Elise Kopas perches delicately on a tall chair on the bottom floor of Eberly Library. She smiles across the circular table in front of her and shares about her experience as a Waynesburg University nursing student.

“I have always cared for people,” said Kopas. “Waynesburg University is close to my home, so that also played a part in my selection of this school. Waynesburg’s 100 percent pass rate on the NCLEX exams was pretty impressive too.”

As impressed as Kopas was by the university, she impressed her instructors as well.

“Elise is an outstanding student in the classroom,” said Sara Clutter, associate professor of nursing. “She presents to each class, [is] prepared for the content plan of the day, prepared to participate in classroom activities and prepared to ask intriguing questions that let me know she has good critical thinking skills that she will use to keep her patients safe.”

Kopas’ professional reputation continues to build up, reaching the executive offi-

cials in her department.

“Elise has been an exceptional student, very professional and dedicated to her studies,” said Nancy Mosser, chairperson and director for the nursing department.

“She has served as a tutor for several years, sharing her knowledge and skills with others. Elise was a presence in the department, staying late into the evening hours to tutor other students. She was available to those who asked for assistance, and she always had a smile on her face.”

Elise wore this smile throughout each challenge she faced over these past four

years, including when sophomore year proved to be quite a test.

“When I was a sophomore, it was very overwhelming,” said Kopas. “I would recommend that the nursing department have juniors and seniors act as mentors to underclassmen, so that things may be easier for them.”

According to Elise’s instructors, she embodies characteristics that will permit her to shine in the field of nursing.

“So tiny, yet so tall! In physical stature, Elise is a very petite young woman but her potential contributions to the profession of nursing and the

advancement of healthcare are 10 feet tall,” said Clutter.

“Elise is the ‘total package’ of a great nurse: compassionate, knowledgeable, patientfocused and approachable.”

Kopas reflected on some things she really appreciates from her time at Waynesburg.

“My favorite thing about the nursing program was meeting other great students and the outstanding faculty,” said Kopas. “I feel more prepared and accomplished.”

Being no stranger to long nights of studying followed by early morning commutes to clinicals, Kopas shares some

advice to underclassmen.

“In this program you need to work and study hard,” said Kopas. “Make sure you stick with it. Get the support you need and make sure you ask for help when necessary. Also, do not be afraid to ask questions.”

Kopas is applying to Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, West Virginia and she also has plans to pursue a master’s degree, which will allow her to teach nursing.

Her chapter will soon be closing at Waynesburg, but she will continue to make her school proud in her profession.

Spencer to remember lasting relationships made at WU

By Brittany Semco

Graphic Design Editor

She wants to tell the stories of people who do not have the voice to tell it themselves.

However, for now, she plans on receiving all the professional experience that she can so that she will be prepared for her future endeavors.

Mary Spencer, senior English major with a concentration in professional writing, is from Allison Park, Pennsylvania.

She spends most of her time working toward her goals at Waynesburg University by being a tutor in the University’s Writing Center.

She was a past editor for Muse and Stone and held the position as the non-fiction editor for a year.

Spencer was the Testimony

Coordinator for the university’s student-led worship service, Upper Room, for two years.

She enjoys reading, hanging out with friends and especially spending time with her new neice.

Through her passion in reading, she identifies her favorite author as Brennan Manning, who is a Christian author, because “he writes really honestly,” said Spencer.

“My favorite kind of writing is non-fiction and he embraces that by being very real with people.”

Spencer, also an aspiring Christian author, chose to attend Waynesburg because she “thought it was a good blend of academics and faith.”

However, Spencer’s college career did not start as one in English.

Although she considers herself to be an open book, Spencer said, “I actually wanted to go into medical research.

However, it wasn’t until I took three courses that I said “nope not for me.”

She considers her current career choice a great one because, through it, she has had the opportunity to meet three of her role models.

Her spiritual mentor and boss as a Resident Assistant, Ashley Kelver, is someone who she has developed a good friendship with.

“She speaks the truth, even the hard truth,” said Spencer.

“She has walked the last three years of my life, guiding me with a lot of wisdom.”

In addition to Kelver, Spencer identifies two professional mentors and role models.

“Jill Sunday, who is my boss

in the Writing Center, is very similar to Ashley because she knows me really well,” said Spencer.

“She knows how to make decisions and has given me a lot of opportunities such as working in the Writing Center and even allowing me to tutor graduate students in the RNBSN major.”

Having enjoyed her college career, Spencer’s favorite memory from Waynesburg University will be “building the friendships that I have here and watching how those have transformed over the last four years into friendships that will last.”

After graduation, Spencer plans on finding a job that will help her develop professionally as writer, something she will need to achieve her goals in her field.

Photo courtesy Mary Spencer

English major Mary Spencer hopes to use the knowledge gained at Waynesburg to become a Christian author.

Spotlight

Page B2

April 23, 2015

Emiliani: ‘Thousands of minutes, miles of memories’

By Abby Wernert Chief Photogrpher

There are two types of people that enter college: those who know what it is they want to do, and those who do not.

For senior criminal justice and psychology major Emma Emiliani she happened to fall into the former group.

Coming from Canton, Pennsylvania, located on the opposite side of the state, Emiliani happened upon Waynesburg University by chance.

“When I was researching different colleges, I knew I wanted to go into criminal justice,” said Emiliani.

“There weren’t a lot of criminal justice schools in Pennsylvania, actually. So when I did research criminal justice schools, Waynesburg was one of the first ones to come up.”

Since high school, Emiliani knew she wanted to go into the criminal justice field.

According to Emiliani, crime shows played a small part in inspiring her to choose criminal justice, but it was personal experience that really solidified the idea.

After looking into the school more, Emiliani was impressed with the criminal justice program Waynesburg offered and knew it was the right university to attend to carry out her goal.

Throughout her four

Photo courtesy Emma Emiliani

Criminal justice major Emma Emiliani will take her knowledge gained at Waynesburg and consider the legal side of the criminal justice field rather than pursuing a career in policing. years, or rather three and a half – she spent a semester studying abroad in Lithuania – Emiliani has made sure to get the most from her college experience at Waynesburg.

Both in and out of her major, Emiliani has taken

classes that she feels have helped prepare her for what is to come after graduation.

The class Criminal Investigation helped Emiliani gain the hands-on experience she needed to prepare for life after college.

Meanwhile, her favorite non-criminal justice class was the Forensics Psychology class.

“It’s tied in with my major a lot, but we got some of the specifics on different criminals and just an un-

derstanding of why certain people do what they do,” said Emiliani.

The time she has spent at Waynesburg and as a student in the criminal justice department made the college experience fun and interest-

ing, said Emiliani.

Some of her most treasured moments and experiences at Waynesburg include volunteering with the criminal justice outreach programs, such as the mock crime scene, and spending time with her friends.

While Emiliani is considering taking some time to figure out her exact plans for after graduation, she is considering going into the more legal side of the criminal justice area rather than the field of policing.

Ideally, Emiliani said she would want to become a lawyer or paralegal, as she enjoys working to put facts and cases together that would allow her to bring about justice.

Although Emiliani said there were some things from her four years at Waynesburg she would like to redo, such as participating more in events, the time she spent at Waynesburg proved to be valuable.

“What I learned here is just to take opportunities.

Waynesburg has an enormous amount of opportunities to take, and I’ve gotten to do some like study abroad and that was a really great experience for me,” said Emiliani.

“For my major, I’ve learned to always believe in yourself and go with your gut. I think that’s really important in the criminal justice field – believing in yourself that you can do it.”

Student’s transition from Pitt Music ministry major ready to take on industry to WU difficult, but worthwhile

By Jenny Schouppe Convergence Editor

Philip Hurd’s journey started after graduating high school in 2010.

Originally from the small town of Prattsburgh, New York, Hurd graduated with a class of 27 students.

During his time in high school, he was heavily involved in the music department.

Upon graduating from high school, he was accepted at Roberts Wesleyan College in Rochester, New York, where he majored in Music Education.

After two years, Hurd could not see himself fitting in the program so he looked into transferring.

Steven Hullings, a member of the 2013 graduating class at Waynesburg University, suggested he come down to Waynesburg to be a Sports Broadcasting major.

“I did that for a year but spent more time in the music building being a part of so many ensembles that Dr. DePriest asked why I wasn’t a Fine Arts major,” said Hurd.

Hurd then made the switch to a Music Ministry major, which he claims is where he feels he belongs.

Since coming to Waynesburg, Hurd has been involved in almost every musical ensemble: Symphonic Band (Percussion Section Leader for two years), Touring Choir (Tenor Section Leader for three years), Concert Choir (Tenor Section Leader for three years), Pep Band, Pipe and Drum Band, Jazz Band, Vocal Jazz, Percussion Ensemble and Barbershop Quartet.

He also spent a year doing radio shows for the radio station WCYJ-FM. Due to Hurd’s involvement in the music department, he is leaving Waynesburg with many precious memories.

“I’ve enjoyed working with major recording artists like Michael W. Smith, Cello Fury and Manhattan Piano Trio,” said Hurd. “I have also fallen in love with the Pipe and Drum band, of which I am a member, but I think my two favorite memories involve being off campus. I was selected to be a part of the Pittsburgh POPS, so a group of four Waynesburg students and I performed at Heinz Hall as a part of a large choir featuring members from all the colleges in the area.”

Hurd claims that he’ll always remember all the great opportunities he’s had at

Waynesburg University.

“My favorite memory is that for the past two years I’ve been selected as the principal timpanist for the Pennsylvania Intercollegiate Band,” said Hurd.

“This band features collegiate instrumentalists from all over the state representing upwards of 15 schools. I was lucky enough to be selected to go.”

Through the opportunities and experiences here at Waynesburg University, Hurd feels that he is ready to take on the music industry and maybe even teach one day.

“I think the Fine Arts Department here allowed me to grow into a leader, and the department has adjusted to the new technologies that have become available to musicians like myself and helped me expand my range of knowledge much more than possible five years ago,” said Hurd.

Hurd plans on moving to the Pittsburgh area to look for jobs in the theater district.

“I’ve spent a good amount of time there and like the area,” said Hurd.

“I’m also entertaining the idea of going to get another undergraduate degree in Music Education so that I can teach throughout the state.”

By Kimmi Baston Managing Editor

When Jesse Vihlidahl transferred to Waynesburg University in 2012, the transition was difficult – as it is for many transfer students.

In Vihlidahl’s case, he came from the University of Pittsburgh, which has an enrollment of nearly 35,000 students.

He chose Waynesburg, with 1,400 students, because he had decided to change his major to education and knew of the education department at Waynesburg University.

During the transition, Vihlidahl found that he gained enjoyment from the new experiences and the support from new friends.

“My favorite memory was actually the first few weeks of my time at Waynesburg,” said Vihlidahl. “ After transferring, it was exciting to meet new friends and explore a new campus.

Everyone was very welcoming.”

As a biology secondary education major, Vihlidahl felt that the Education Department provided the best education possible for him to have a successful, prosperous career.

He believes the professors

of the department have the best interests of their students in mind and do their jobs very well.

“The professors were easily my favorite thing about the education department,” said Vihlidahl.

“They were all highly motivated and were always available if you needed help. The education department takes care of their students and adequately prepares them for the education field.”

Currently, Vihlidahl is working a temporary position in Jefferson-Morgan school district.

To prepare him for such a position, Vihlidahl completed a semester of student teaching before he graduated in December 2014.

He feels that student teaching was the ultimate preparation for beginning to move toward a career in education.

“I think my greatest accomplishment was successfully completing my student teaching experience last semester,” said Vihlidahl.

“Student teaching was very demanding, but all the hard work was worth it. It was easily the greatest learning experience of my life.”

Further demonstrating his dedication to the education

department, Vihlidahl was heavily involved in Kappa Delta Pi, the education honorary society, which lends itself to doing various types of service throughout the year.

Through KDP, Vihlidahl was involved in Relay for Life and Operation Christmas Child while he was at the university.

Because he graduated early, Vihlidahl is on his own as he works locally, while many of his friends continue pursuing their degrees at Waynesburg.

“I really miss the community atmosphere created by the students at Waynesburg, as well as seeing my friends there on a regular basis,” said Vihlidahl.

He names his “amazing friends” as his absolute favorite part of Waynesburg University, despite the fact that he attended the university for a far shorter time than most.

Now, Vihlidahl hopes to find a secondary position teaching biology, and he wants to remain in Pennsylvania.

So far, he has submitted several applications to different schools.

“I’m excited to see where these opportunities take me,” said Vihlidahl.

Giuliani cherishes community at WU, women’s basketball team

By John Lydic

Multimedia Manger

As the final spring sports events come to a close, so do the final practice opportunities for senior athletic training and exercise science major Hayden Giuliani. A Morgantown, West Virginia, native, Giuliani has been an involved student over her four years at Waynesburg University, not only with her major, but also as a part of the women’s basketball team, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the vice president of the Athletic Training Club.

With all the involvement in many activities around campus, Giuliani found her favorite moments when she was on the court at the Rudy Marisa Fieldhouse.

“My fondest memory of Waynesburg was being on the basketball team,” said

Giuliani. “Being on a team, meeting new girls and being a part of a community within itself was nice.”

Her involvement within the activities and her major have been well seen by peers and faculty, such as Drue Stapleton, assistant professor of athletic training.

“In the time I have been here, Hayden has brought such attention to detail in what she does and her commitment,” said Stapleton.

“Her work ethic is probably her biggest thing. When there is a job to do, she gets it done. When there is work to do, she gets it done at a high level. She is very dependable.”

Stapleton has enjoyed seeing Giuliani’s involvement and leadership as a member and officer of the Athletic Training Club.

“She has done a great job at organizing the rest of the

Rob Longo, Yellow Jacket

Excerise science major Hayden Giuliani will remember the small community but the great opportunities from her time at Waynesburg. members of the club,” said Stapleton.

As Giuliani reflects back

on her time at Waynesburg and in her major, she believes Waynesburg has pre-

pared her for future career endeavors.

“I think I’m more pre-

pared because with [athletic training], you’re always hands-on,” said Giuliani.

“They have put me in the best opportunities to excel.

They have always helped me along the way. I have had a lot of classmates push me, teachers push me and I have worked really hard to get to this level.”

When Giuliani thinks about what the true Waynesburg experience is for her, she thinks of the small community but great opportunities.

“The Waynesburg experience is a small school, but very interactive and very open,” said Giuliani. “It allows you to be open and be yourself. It gives you so many opportunities to network and meet new people and see many new ideas.”

After graduation, Giuliani is planning to attend graduate school in Florida.

Spotlight

April 23, 2015

Page B3

Dedication to athletics, academics leads to Hope’s success

By Kimmi Baston Managing Editor

Like other students who choose Waynesburg University, Casey Hope was looking for a small school during his college search.

“It’s a smaller school, so [I love] the community type feeling that you get to establish over the four years,” said Hope.

“You know a lot of people that you see every day.

It’s not like it’s a big school where you might know five people and you might never see them. You get to know different types of people.”

Hope was also searching for a school where he could play basketball, which he has done for four years while at Waynesburg University.

He balanced his love of the sport with his responsibilities as an early childhood education/special education major.

As an education major, Hope was an active member of Kappa Delta Pi, the edu-

cation honorary society.

He also volunteered as a Fiat Lux mentor for classes of freshmen completing the introductory Fiat Lux course, and he served on the Student Athletic Advisory Committee, which meets periodically to discuss different issues and activities on campus regarding athletics.

Throughout his time with each of these activities, Hope remained dedicated to his academic career.

He’ll graduate in May with no grades lower than an A-, a feat he calls his greatest accomplishment while in college.

His dedication to academic work stems partly from his love of the education department as a whole.

He feels that the professors in the department make being an education major an extremely valuable experience.

“The variety of professors that we have come from different educational back-

grounds, and they are able to present us with different teaching perspectives based on what they’ve experienced in their careers,” said Hope.

“Those professors are kind of like your friends, especially after spending four years with them.”

In particular, Hope built strong connections with professors Debra Clarke, assistant professor of education and chair of the education department; Frank Pazzynski, associate professor of education; and Charles Braden, an adjunct instructor of education.

Besides missing professors he has become close to, Hope anticipates that leaving Waynesburg will bring a period of adjustment to a life with a less sure routine.

“The real world’s a lot different than college, you know,” said Hope. “You don’t really get to sleep in in the real world. I’ll miss that routine and knowing what to expect. You don’t really know what to expect once

Photo courtesy Casey Hope

Education major Casey Hope will remember the many life lessons he learned as a student athlete at Waynesburg. you leave these walls.”

After graduation, Hope will continue to apply to

school districts in Virginia and western Pennsylvania.

He hopes to land a teach-

ing job either near home in Pittsburgh or in Virginia, where his sister lives.

Tenenbaum looking to combine Nursing student leaves lasting technology with missions trips impression on WU professors

By Danielle Schuyler Editorial Assistant

Photo courtesy Alexander Tenenbaum

Information technology major Alexander Tenenbaum hopes to use technology skills in the missionary field.

By Jacob Meyer Managing Editor

Alexander Tenenbaum understands the difficulty of trying to intertwine his faith with his studies.

As an information technology major, combining his Christian faith into his field has not been easy, and he understands it will be difficult going forward.

Tenenbaum is hopeful, though, that he will be able to incorporate his degree with his faith and service in the future.

He has started the process of combining his major and faith with his senior project, in which he tried to gain information on how to achieve his goal of combining technology and missions. "[For] my senior project I surveyed 21 missionaries and I also contacted a couple of other sources, and I asked the missionaries, 'How is technology relevant to your mission field and how do you need it?’”

Tenenbaum said.

"It gave me an inlet for my major and how to combine my faith and my studies."

Tenenbaum knows that technology is of high importance and is one of the biggest needs in world missions.

Tenenbaum studied abroad in Italy for the 2014 spring semester. He also went to Papua, New Guinea for six weeks on a mission trip and traveled to Boston during college.

"I've always desired to incorporate faith and my studies," Tenenbaum said. "In Boston I did some evangelism and I also did some IT work in their office. In Papua, New Guinea, I got to meet some missionaries and ask them about technology on their missions and I used some of that for my senior project."

During his time as a student at Waynesburg, Tenenbaum said his studies were very diverse because of the course load as an information technology major.

"With IT, there is a broad aspect compared to other majors in computer science, like

I took a lot of communication classes like Web Design, Photography and Public Speaking," Tenenbaum said. "Then I obviously got to take the computer science classes. So itís a broad field within computer science."

Tenenbaum worked for the IT Department on campus for approximately three semesters during his college career.

He also raised money by himself as well as getting assistance from others to have wells fixed and made in Africa.

Tenenbaum said he will remember the people from Waynesburg the most.

"The friends I made and the mentors Iíve had from faculty, Iíll definitely have the rest of my life," Tenenbaum said. "I mean my studies are good, but I think itís the connections you make that are way more important."

Tenenbaum is hoping to get into seminary for a twoyear degree in missions, and afterwards try to combine his degree with a Christian organization.

Who k ne w s ome one could be so excited about yogurt parfaits? Her energy is evident as she encourages people to come visit her table at the Waynesburg University Health Fair. Danielle Rupert takes her major and future career seriously, but she also makes it fun.

“Danielle was the president of the Student Nurses Association of Pennsylvania and was in charge of many fundraising activities for the organization,” said Nancy Mosser, chairperson for the nursing department.

“She was a leader, spending hours organizing events for her class.”

Rupert’s passion for educating others about nursing has left a lasting impression on those who taught her.

“O n e m e m o r y e a s ily stands out: Danielle has served as a tutor for several courses in the Nursing Department,” said Sara Clutter, assistant professor of nursing. “I recently had the privilege of watching her tutoring skills in action. She was so respectful of her peer and so easily discussed study skills, how to break down an NCLEX style test question, and even offer some constructive suggestions to her peer in a way that was both respectful and encouraging.

Those qualities represent true gifts as an educator.”

Flashing back to when Rupert was first looking at places to go to collge, Waynesburg University made a positive impression on her.

“Waynesburg University had almost everything on my checklist,” said Rupert.

“It was a top rated school for nursing and it had an excellent pass rate for the

“Danielle will be a fantastic nurse and an even better nurse educator.”

Sara Clutter

Assistant Professor of nursing

NCLEX. In addition, it was a small Christian school approximately an hour from my home.”

Rupert expressed how genuinely pleased she was with her education here at the university and why she believes others would be too.

“Waynesburg University’s nursing program is one of the best,” said Rupert. “If you are looking to learn a lot and be a well-prepared nurse, Waynesburg should be on the list of potential options.”

Rupert understands the value of hard work and continues to exhibit an attitude of professionalism with all of her assignments.

“Danielle is a dedicated student,” said Clutter. “She has an unparalleled understanding of classroom content and a unique way of sharing that understanding with her classroom peers.”

“Danielle has been an exceptional student, with a high GPA and excellent critical thinking skills,” said Mosser.

When discussing her favorite part about the Waynesburg University nursing program and what she would change, Rupert maintained an enthusiastic nature.

“The simulation lab was my favorite addition to the Waynesburg University’s nursing program,” said Rupert.

“The lab provided excellent opportunities to practice nursing skills without the fear of hurting a patient.

I would not change anything about the Waynesburg University nursing program.

The instructors are excellent and they make sure that we are prepared to take the NCLEX.” Rupert shares encouragement for underclassmen and those preparing to come to Waynesburg University for nursing.

“Don’t give up,” said Rupert. “Nursing as a major and a profession is difficult, but also very rewarding.”

Rupert’s tenacity has paid off, and she now prepares for her post-graduate job.

“I recently accepted an RN position at Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, West Virginia,” said Rupert.

“I plan on working at Ruby for several years and eventually going back for a graduate degree in education.”

Her instructors have no doubt that she will do great things.

“She has so much to offer to others,” said Mosser.

“Danielle knows my one wish for her; we have discussed it several times,” said Clutter.

“Danielle will be a fantastic nurse and an even better nurse educator. Her skills and patience as a tutor are outstanding. She has a promising future as a nurse educator; one who can touch the lives of hundreds who will then go forth and touch the lives of thousands of patients. I look forward to working with Danielle as a nurse educator colleague.”

Bloomster acquires love for enviornmental science from campus involvement

By Rebecca Burcham Copy Editor

When Lindsey Bloomster came to Waynesburg, she was initially unsure about where she should go for her college education. Now, as she prepares to graduate, she will be heading out into the world with a definitive goal.

What is that goal? She wants to help save the Earth.

Bloomster, from Erie, Pennsylvania, didn’t know where she wanted to go for college.

In the fall of her senior year, she was recruited by the Waynesburg lacrosse coach. She ultimately decided that Waynesburg would be a good fit for her,

although she never suited up for Waynesburg’s lacrosse team.

Originally a biology major, Bloomster made the switch to environmental science in her sophomore year.

“I took environmental science in my senior year of high school, and I realized I wanted more earth sciences,” said Bloomster. “I enjoy finding ways to help the earth, and there’s a lot or problems that I think should be dealt with.”

Bloomster added that the job security was appealing as well, as the field of environmental science has a large scope of current job openings.

D u r i n g h e r t i m e at Waynesburg, Bloomster

climbed the ranks to become president of the Ecostewards club and a leader of the Recycling Task Force. Through her extracurriculars, classes and overall experiences on campus, Bloomster has grown in many ways – both academically and personally.

“I grew up a lot here, and I found myself,” said Bloomster. “I came out of my shell a lot more and I realized I wanted to make changes, not only for the campus but to lead [into] a future job.”

“I learned a lot here with it still being faith-based, which was nice,” added Bloomster.

Bloomster credits much of her success to the faculty

within the environmental science department.

“I love the one-on-one interaction,” said Bloomster. “I’ve had a ton of classes with Dr. Paladino, so we definitely developed a nice relationship with each other. She’s just helped me through and steered me in the right direction I needed to go.”

Dr. Janet Paladino, associate professor of biology and Bloomster’s academic advisor, believes that Bloomster is an exceptional student and has a very bright future in the field of horticulture.

“Lindsey possesses a unique combination of academic maturity and motivation that is rare among her peers, and is passion-

ate about leaving a legacy of Environmental Stewardship on campus,” said Paladino. “[She] is extremely well organized, has a great outlook and is not afraid to take on new challenges which will expand the limits of her knowledge.”

B l o oms t e r a c k n ow l edged having many positive memories from her time at Waynesburg, but one of her favorites came in the spring of 2014.

“L ast E ar th Day, we planted trees on campus,” said Bloomster. “I think we had like 15 trees, [and] all the Ecostewards went around campus and planted them … It was a nice sense of community, and actually helping the campus. We had a ton of fun doing it.”

According to Bloomster, the only regrets she has involve not diving into her chosen field sooner.

“I’d probably get more involved my freshman year, and I think I wish I would have changed my major earlier too,” said Bloomster, when asked if she would do anything differently.

“And then just develop the friends that I made in my major sooner, rather than the end of my sophomore year.”

In regards to the future, Bloomster plans to travel before beginning her career.

She hopes to work out in the field in agriculture, and is currently looking at the Longwood Botanic Garden as a future opportunity.

Spotlight

April 23, 2015

Page B4

The History Behind Academic Regalia

By KARA BEMER

Advertising Director

Ever wonder why graduates have to wear those huge robes and where the specific colors originated? There is more to academic regalia than those black robes that will make graduates sweat under the hot Pennsylvania sun during the Commencement ceremony on the Miller Hall lawn. Here is a breakdown of the history of graduation attire and how academics have adapted it over time: History Academic regalia dress dates back to the 12th century at the early universities of Europe.

Universities lacked campus buildings so many of the undergraduates would conduct their studies at a nearby church.

Historians believe that academic dress originated when scholars, who were largely clerics or aspiring clerics in the churches, wore long robes and hoods to keep warm in the unheated church buildings.

The practices of wearing long graduation gowns became more widespread when gowns were established as the official dress of 1321. This was a time period when wearing revealing clothes was frowned upon, so wearing graduation gowns not only became a regal standard, but also served as a modest outfit.

The long gowns varied; hoods normally used for warmth were later used by universities to differentiate and recognize the various grades of scholars.

The official guidelines for dress at all institutions continues to be diverse, since there is no true governing body of academic regalia. However, in 1895, representatives from the American Institution gathered and established a body known as the Intercollegiate Commission to standardize the practice of academic dress. These guidelines are often referred to as the Intercollegiate Code, with the most recent revision-taking place in 1986.

Patterns for gowns and hoods are decided based on appropriate degree color assignments for each area of study.

Robes and gowns There are several different types of robes or gowns worn, each signifying the highest level of academic degree held.

The gown worn by someone earning a bachelor’s degree has pointed sleeves and is worn closed during the ceremony. The gown worn by someone who is obtaining a master’s degree has oblong sleeves, which are open at the wrist with the base hanging down; they can be worn open or closed with fasteners. Doctoral robes include velvet trimming down the front with three velvet bars on the sleeves. Traditionally, all robes are black, regardless of the degree. However, some universities and colleges elect to invest in robes in their school’s colors.

Cap and mortarboard Flat and four sided, the cap is worn on top of the head. Caps come with a single button at the top where the tassel hangs, which is usually colored to signify the institution or type of degree.

At Waynesburg, undergraduates will sport one of a few different colored tassels May 3 depending on their field of study. Students receiving a Bachelor of Arts will wear white tassels, students earning a Bachelor of Science will wear golden yellow tassels, students graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration will wear drab (or brown) tassels and Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduates will wear apricot tassels.

Hoods Academic hoods are traditionally black and made out of the same material as the robe or gown. The length of the hood varies based on degree; doctoral hoods are always the widest. Hoods are often lined on the inside with school colors.

The edges are also often lined in velvet colored by the field of study.

Tams Signifying doctoral degrees, these are made of velvet with ribbon over the fabric. The number of sides may vary, and they are “poofed” at the top. They generally come with tassels and one or two buttons.

Source: https://www.herftjones.com/regaliahistory

Tassel Colors

BA

BS/BSMB

BSBA

BSN

Spotlight

April 23, 2015

Page B5

Forsythe puts in work on and off field Faiad prepares for

After transfering, senior says WU has prepared him well

By JOHN LYDIC

Multimedia Manager

In the last few weeks of the college careers for many seniors, athletic training and exercise science major Jake Forsythe has covered a lot of ground, not only on the football field but in the classroom as well.

Since transferring to Waynesburg, the New Salem native has been heavily involved with his major and athletics. Forsythe’s involvement with his major has allowed him to set up for the next step in his career, and he thinks Waynesburg has given him the tools to do so.

“The classes in general, there is so much work you have to do to get you ready for what you have to do after graduation,” said Forsythe.

“It puts you in the mindset and track for what you have to do after graduation.”

The hands-on teaching provided in the classroom with instructors such as Drue Stapleton, assistant

next step in career

By KARA BEMER

Advertising Director

Jenny Schouppe, Yellow Jacket

Senior athletic training and exercise science major, Jake Forsythe runs the hoping for a touchdown as a running back for the Yellow Jacket football team. professor of athletic training, has brought the framework of what athletic training students like Forsythe experience.

“The coursework has prepared them to take the

next step,” said Stapleton.

“It has given them kind of the baseline information, a combination of that baseline foundation and his individual attributes through internship experiences and

his desire to want to learn more, his ability to move on to the next level.”

Stapleton discussed that students such as Forsythe See FORSYTHE on B8

“I love psychology because I love finding and knowing reasons to why we are the way we are,” said Sara Faiad.

Faiad, a psychology major and biology minor, not only shares a love for studying psychology, but also a passion for animals.

After four years at Waynesburg University, involvement in mission trips and extracurricular organization involvement in Mad Anthony Yearbook and Peer Education Club, Faiad is taking the next step in her career.

Faiad will pursue her masters – at Bucknell University located in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania – in animal behavior and will specifically be accompanied by some primates. While humans and primates share many physical attributes like similar hands, broad shoulders and a rib cage, there is one major similarity that particularly interests Faiad.

Primates are comparable to

humans in how they choose to handle their emotions, even in how long it takes for two primates to make up after a fight and the anxiety they experience before, during and after the fight.

This is what Faiad will be doing in the upcoming years, as she will be in a primate lab.

Faiad shares an extreme excitement for experimental studies of animals.

She will specifically study experimental and comparative social behaviors between different species, but mainly primates and humans.

“I wasn’t even sure I could accomplish this career, but after pursuing both my love of animals and psychology and with the help of Dr.[Jamie] Jellison [associate professor of psychology], I was able to get the help I needed in experimental psychology,” said Faiad. “All of my other professors really prepared me and are great, but Dr. Jellison helped me get to where I wanted See FAIAD on B8

Local student Quincy Hathaway finds interest in sciences Hathaway’s love for environmental science while in high school turned into his future in college

By REBECCA BURCHAM Copy Editor

If passion is equal to success, Quincy Hathaway has been destined to succeed for many years. What began as a high school interest has grown into larger passion and a future career through his experiences at Waynesburg University.

Originally from Carmichaels, Pennsylvania, Hathaway came to Waynesburg University so he would be able to commute, and also because the price of tuition was fairly reasonable.

Hathaway will graduate with a double major in environmental science and biology and a minor in chemistry.

These interests began with Hathaway’s high school learning experiences.

“I was interested in biology, and specifically environmental science, in high school. There is what’s known as the Envirothon; it’s a type of organization where you compete at the state and national level for wilderness knowledge, basically,” said Hathaway in regards to a particular experience that he credits for his interest in the field At Waynesburg University, Hathaway is involved in many extracurriculars, including the Ecostewards, the biology club and Habitat for Humanity service projects.

These experiences, along with the academic environment of the university, have helped him to grow as an individual.

Photo courtesy Quincy Hathaway

Senior environmental science and biology major with a minor in chemistry Quincy Hathaway in his element.

Hathaway has dedicated his last four years of college and his summers helping to advance the sciences.

Academically, Hathaway particularly enjoys the faith versus science debates that spark in the classroom.

“It’s just something that interests me, how faith has a different role in scientific knowledge,” said Hathaway.

“Finding your passion is finding success.”

QUINCY HATHAWAY

Enviornmental Science and Biology Major

“I’ve definitely grown,” added Hathaway. “I’ve been

pushed to excel at Waynesburg, and there have been

ample opportunities to go out and find [openings] like internships. Personally, just through the experiences of college, through the academic and social setting, I’ve changed as an individual.”

According to Hathaway, the Waynesburg faculty is one of the university’s greatest qualities.

“They are always looking to help the students, inside and outside the classroom,” said Hathaway.

According to Dr. Janet Paladino, associate professor of biology and Hathaway’s academic advisor, Hathaway is the highest academic achiever in the environmental science department.

“It is exceptional undergraduate students like Quincy Hathaway that motivate college professors to make the extra effort to insure their students are provided with the most challenging academic experiences,” said Paladino. “I am extremely impressed with his motivation, his interest in scientific research, his passion for molecular and cell biology, his superior written and oral communication skills and his ability work as a team player. I believe that he is destined to be a very successful scientist.”

Hathaway has few regrets when he looks back on his four years at Waynesburg.

“I’d say probably the two things I would change would be some of the courses that I’ve taken … and maybe attending more social events here,” he said.

These miniscule qualms will have no effect on his accomplishments, however. Hathaway pursued his passion at Waynesburg University, and chasing that passion can only lead him to his future success.

A student searching for stability for her future finds it at WU

By CHELSEA DICKS Managing Editor

Even before Alyssa Daniel came to college or chose her major, she kept stability in mind and knew what she wanted in a college experience.

She ended up deciding on Waynesburg University for a couple of reasons. She liked the small size and the rural location in a small town.

The scholarships also attracted her here.

But sports played a huge role in her decision as well, and she liked that here, she had the ability to play tennis at a D-III level.

The idea of stability has always been in the forefront of her mind when picturing her future.

“I decided to major in forensic accounting because I found the classes and subject matter interesting, and also

“Stability has always been important to me, and the accounting field has many opportunities.”

ALYSSA DANIEL

Senior business major

because of the job opportunities available in the field,” said Daniel.

“Stability has always been important to me, and the accounting field has many opportunities.”

Since choosing Waynesburg University, Daniel is proud of all of the things she was able to accomplish during her past four years here.

One thing she is most proud of is her ability to maintain a high grade point average during all four years.

This fact opened up many doors for her. Due to her high GPA, she was offered some great internship opportunities, which later contributed to her job prospects.

Daniel also received a Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants [PICPA] scholarship due to all of her hard work. “[The scholarship] has been a great blessing,” said Daniel.

Now that she is preparing to step out into the real world, she says that the things she will miss the most are the everyday experiences with friends so close.

“From Pirates games, to movie night in the dorms, to tennis matches,” said Daniel, “I am lucky enough to be living near some of them next year, but I will miss the convenience of having them near all the time.”

She quickly added that she

would also miss naps, because to her they are the best.

Daniel said that she has learned a lot while at Waynesburg University, but among the highest and most prominent lessons for her was to learn the importance of figuring out what events and subject she was most passionate about.

“I am someone who at times tries to do too many things at once,” said Daniel.

“During my time here I have learned that there is a limit to the amount of time I have to do these things.”

Even though graduation is fast approaching, Daniel is excited about her future. She has accepted a job working in the tax department at BDO USA in Pittsburgh, which is one of the biggest accounting firms in the city. She is also happily engaged to Aaron Anderson and is expecting to get married in June 2016.

Dave Miller, ADM Photography

Senior business major, Alyssa Daniel plays the sport that she loves. She was part of the Waynesburg University tennis team for four years.

Spotlight

Page B6

April 23, 2015

Yellow Jacket Staff Seniors Reflect Take some advice: How one moment shaped a lifetime Be smart in school, never miss the fun CHELSEA DICKS Senior Columnist

I really didn’t want to do this, because frankly I am no good at writing about myself.

I could go ahead and ramble on about my hard times as a transfer student from Grove City College, how I always knew I wanted to be a journalist or how much the Department of Communication here at Waynesburg University has impacted me.

I guess I could do that, but more than likely most of you have no idea who I even am, so I have decided to take a different approach.

Here are some things that I learned throughout my three years here at WU that will make your college experience better, and cheaper.

Number 1: I have the solution to the number one problem that everyone complains about at this school,

the parking problem.

Actually, Brandon Szuminsky, a communication instructor and our newspaper advisor, came up with it and I agree so I would like to share it with you (just in case someone actually has some initiative and makes a change happen). Parking spots should cost the student more or less in conjunction with how close the spot is to highly trafficked areas around campus. This means that when students apply for a parking pass, they choose a location spot on campus. If they choose spots in front of Buhl or across from Hanna Hall the spot will cost more than spots down

by Willison or down by the parks. Seniors and commuters would get first choice at spots. Smart, right? Someone do something about it.

Number 2: Do not buy a meal plan at any college if you don’t have to. I know that See WISDOM on B6

A message from our Graphic Design Editor BRITTANY SEMCO Senior Columnist

Editor’s Note: Graphic Design Editor Brittany Semco chose not to write a senior column, but still has a message to share with readers.

The future believe beauty

belongs to those who

in the

of their

DREAMS

endless sobs. It shook all my beliefs in life and made me NICK question everything I had FARRELL once known as truth.

Senior Columnist Why do bad things happen to good people? If I’m When I was 13 years old, faithful to God, won’t He my life changed. Whether it reward me? was for better or for worse, Does God really, truly I’ll never really know; but have a plan for me if He what I do know is that this would let something like this one incredibly vivid mo- happen to my family? ment rocked my world and For better or for worse, I’ll changed my perspective on never know, but Lou’s death life. changed my life.

When I was 13 years old, Lou’s death made me my mother and father sat my stronger in my faith. brothers and I down to tell For one, it made me reus our best friend was gone. alize that an unshakable Our cousin Lou had been faith is nearly impossible to shot and killed at age 14. obtain, but an ever growThat one memory is far ing, omnipresent faith is stronger than all the rest, necessary in life. Though I permanently etched in my questioned it in my grief, mind as if hot metal had I knew God still loved my branded my brain. It’s a dark family. I knew he had work memory, filled with rampag- for me to do. I just needed to ing storms and seemingly conquer the challenges that

faced me after Lou’s death, mold something new in my life and continue down that path God created for me.

That path led me to Waynesburg. Here, I’ve continued to grow in faith and in knowledge. I know I’d never have had the opportunity to grow as immensely as I have in four years’ time if I had chosen a different college.

Lou’s death made me realize the value of family.

I’ve always appreciated my family, even at times when I’d question my parents’ rules or fight with my brothers, but over the last four years, I’ve learned what it means to love a family unconditionally. My parents are still my biggest fans, and my brothers, Mitch and Jack, are still my very best friends in the world. I’m thankful that they’ve supported me

through many triumphs — and a few failures — in college.

In the future, I hope to extend those family values and unconditional love and share them with a family of my own. That starts with a girl named Kara, whom I never would have met if I didn’t go to school at Waynesburg. I know I’ve already used this term repeatedly, but Kara has become one of my best friends in life. No one else in the world has watched me go through incredible stresses and break down, and then help me recover by building me back up. She makes me a better, stronger man every single day. I hope that in the future, we can continue to grow together — no matter where life takes us.

I wouldn’t have this hope See LOU on B7

Height is just a number; you always grow KARA BEMER Senior Columnist

Growing up, I never hit a high point in my life – physically, that is. I never grew past the mere height of 4 feet, 11 inches.

Entering Waynesburg University four years ago, I was undecided in my major, knew no one at the university, was unfamiliar with the area and felt extremely small.

I guess I felt physically small, but my vertical challenges were not always my main concern.

In fact, being short has many perks; I can buy kids’ shoes, which saves me mon-

ey, crowd weaving is my art form and I am a great potential candidate for crowd surfing.

Anyway, what I really meant is that I felt small because I didn’t feel like I had a plan entering college.

I soon found friends and got accustomed to the southwestern Pennsylvania lifestyle after relocating from Cleveland, Ohio.

However, it took some time to find my career path, which created some uneasiness in me, as all of my classmates knew exactly where they wanted to be.

My roommate was a business guru, the girl across the hall would tell me about her nursing tests that she was already having after the sec-

ond week of school and I was headed to my next class, career and life planning.

After a full year, I reaffirmed that I still loved writing but I also loved communicating and the idea of working with different people every day.

After a couple of personality and career tests, I was led to a major called public relations.

I took a couple of courses within the Department of Communication and it didn’t take a long time for me to realize that this was where I finally envisioned myself.

After an entire year of stressing over my career path and giving my parents an, “I don’t know what I want to do with my life, I’m only 18,”

answer, I was sure that public relations was my passion.

That covered year one of college for me, but then there were three years to follow.

These three years were filled with heavy deadlines from my professors, late hours in the Mac Lab, part-time jobs that took too much time away from homework and friends, finding classmates for support and friendships as well as plenty of Sheetz runs to put my bank account into the negatives.

Whether you’re a fan of being in college or not, you’re here now, and each day provides the opportunity to gain relationships with See HEIGHT on B7

‘Mistakes’ of the past don’t matter now DANIELLE SCHUYLER Senior Columnist

I was supposed to have graduated by now. I was supposed to have graduated with honors from a state university or Ivy League school.

I was supposed to be in a blossoming career. I was supposed to have—by now— been in a serious relationship that is heading toward marriage.

At least at 17, that’s where I thought I would be a month before my 24th birthday. I

used to be very angry that I did not fulfill these dreams of my 17-year-old self. I would cry frustrated tears, mentally abusing myself for my “mistakes.” When I was applying to college, I had an interview with a Princeton alumnus at his home.

He said that if I wrote a personal essay about how I was remaining competitive in my academics and extracurricular activities despite my obstacles, it would tip the acceptance scales in my favor. So why did I not write the essay?

Since I am a writer, that essay would have been cake. So

why did I throw that chance away?

When I got accepted into the University of Pittsburgh, which I was told was a hard school to get into, why did I leave after two years? Yes, I was really sad.

That was the time when three of my loved ones died over the course of four months. Why did I not stick it out, go to counseling, and just try to ignore the pain?

Why did I throw away that opportunity as well? Why did I think transferring to a school 10 hours away would be better?

Then when I came back to

Pennsylvania after one year, why did I take a semester off of school? Between spring semester 2011 and fall semester 2012, I was internally in a very dark place.

However I am no longer allowing that to cripple me from moving forward. You know what is crazy? I would not change anything that had happened.

Every single day that I wondered if I even had a purpose to live helped make me who I am. I am not being melodramatic, but rather speaking the truth. Each obstacle was See FAMILY on B7

Spotlight

April 23, 2015

Stressful questions lead to many memories ABBY WERNERT Senior Columnist

The great Carl Sagan once said, “For small creatures such as we, the vastness is bearable only through love.”

Throughout my four years at Waynesburg, I’ve often struggled with questions: am I in the right major, do I really belong here, who are the people that are going to have a lasting impact on my life? These questions have caused me way more stress over the past years than what could be considered healthy.

In high school, I must have changed my mind at least three times a year of what I wanted my major to be once I went to college.

Marine biology, English,

pre-med, pre-law, economics, chemistry, international cultures, international relations and linguistics. None of those fall under communications.

In all honesty, I sort of fell into my majors of public relations and journalism.

They sounded interesting and I knew I liked to talk to people and write.

While I realized throughout the past four years that public relations isn’t as glamorous as it originally seemed and journalism can be really, really stressful, I also learned to love my majors.

I realized I didn’t have to be stuck or confined to the typical desk job — the possibilities of what I could do through journalism or public relations were pretty much limitless. If I wanted, I could write about science, or I could write about fashion; I

could plan events or I could work to make a difference.

Besides learning to love my major, I also learned to fall in love with Waynesburg and with Greene County. All my life, I wanted to live in a big city, and while I had applied and been accepted to city schools such as the University of Pittsburgh, I realized I might not have been as ready for something so drastically different than the small high school atmosphere I was used to.

So I ended up at Waynesburg, and found myself incredibly bored.

During my freshman year, I thought there was nothing to do and would go home nearly every weekend.

The more time I spent at the university though, the more things I found to do.

I would go on the trips offered through the school or learn to make my own

fun by hanging out with friends. And really, there are more things to do in Greene County than one might think. You just have to know where to look.

Coming to find a love for both my majors and for the little town I’ve called home for the past four years have definitely made life in college a lot easier.

However, what I’ve come to be the most appreciative of are the people I’ve met. I’m so thankful for the friends that I’ve made, both old and new, both in the Department of Communication and outside of it.

I’m thankful for all of the people I have been friends with for the past four years, for showing me kindness and for sticking by me through all of the good times and especially all of

See QUESTIONS on B8

Leaving a legacy

Shon Meade, Yellow Jacket

Graduating executive staff members include (from left to right) Brittany Semco, Danielle Schuyler, Chelsea Dicks, Abby Wernert, Luke Campbell, Kara Bemer, Megan Potosky, Nick Farrell and Rob Longo.

These nine staffers form one of the most decorated groups in Yellow Jacket history, having collectively earned 12 total awards over the last four years; six from the Society of Professional Journalists, three from the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association and three from the American Scholastic Press Association.

Wisdom: Do what you enjoy while you can

Continued from B6

grants and loans will pay for it but here is the math: There are around 16 weeks, give or take a few days, per semester.

If you have a 19 meal plan, you pay around $14 for each meal here. I am a commuter without a meal plan and I pay around $3.50 for my lunch at the Beehive and $5.10 for a cafeteria meal that is the salad bar and stuff. Not only is $14 a lot, but also if you

add this into your financial package you will later be paying interest on your meals while paying off your student loans.

Number 3: Students, you need to realize that complaining on social media and with one another will change nothing. Someone needs to take some initiative and actually present issues such as the washer and dryer problem to the school so they become aware of the issue.

Number 4: I know this is

cheesy and very cliché but take time to have a college experience. I didn’t, and that will always be a regret of mine. Take time for the things you enjoy. If you are in to theater, be in a play; if you love to worship, join Upper Room; if you love sports, play in the intramural games.

Whatever it is you really enjoy, make time for it. Go to bingo and coffeehouses and concerts. Be a member of a Relay for Life team. I don’t know, just be a part of this

campus.

I know that within five years I will be nothing more than a name rarely, if ever, spoken on the fourth floor of Buhl Hall. I will not leave a legacy, or a name that will become timeless. I will be forgotten by most. But you know what? That’s okay, because there are a few here that will remember me for more than just a name, but as a friend, mentor, co-worker and confidant. What more can I ask for?

Page B7

If you love the grind, it’s never a bother at all LUKE CAMPBELL Senior Columnist

As these past four years come to a conclusion over the next several days, it allows me to finally sit back and assess what all of that time means.

No, that doesn’t mean I get a break.

It just means that around the numerous final projects and upcoming exams, I now make time to keep myself paranoid as to where I might end up after May 3—a date that all seniors have looked forward to.

But as some things just begin in our life, others— thankfully—come to an end.

No more required research papers.

No more checking the grades, immediately pondering the best strategy to pose to your parents that it’s only midterms.

No more walking into family events and getting bombarded by questions about each and every aspect of your life. From grades, significant others, classes and making sure that I have been at least somewhat behaved head those unavoidable, extensive conversation.

We will now attend these sporadic birthday parties, holidays or get-togethers and will be another face in the crowd. Not that I am complaining or anything. It will be good transition to separate myself from a college student into a person making a living and providing.

Instead of how is college, we will receive the prototypical inquiry, “How is work?”

Throughout my last four years of being dragged to a majority of these events, I have listened to that answer more than I have thought about the questions thrown my way.

But the answer that I wanted desperately to hear never came.

Not once. Never.

That symbolic, conversation starter was always preceded with some form of negativity. I continue to listen as people continue to talk about that day-to-day struggle that is their job.

And then I wonder why.

Why is it so awful?

Why, instead of doing something about it, complain about it?

But with each of these conversations that I have listened to, it has hammered home the fact that I owe myself to never go through that.

The classic phrase, “If you love what you are doing, you will never work a day in your life,” is the motto I will always pride myself on.

I never want myself to say, “I have to go to work.”

Instead, “I get to go to work.”

Never let somebody tell you that you can’t do something. Never let other people get in the way of what you want to do.

With my resume being dispensed similarly to the rate of a popular vending machine, I can only hope to get that first opportunity.

But I do know one thing: I am doing everything in my power to get that first chance.

I am doing everything to hopefully one day achieve that dream.

And the best part about it is that I don’t have to do it—I want to do it.

Family: Cherish those around you and live in every single moment Continued from B6

instrumental in bringing me here to Waynesburg University. Each “mistake” helped me find what I really want to do and who I am meant to be.

I am glad those things happened because I have discovered a field that I am truly passionate about. While I have met some really great friends in all of my schools, I was not able to have that feeling of ‘family’ with my fellow students until I became a member of the Yellow Jacket staff.

We are encouraged to reflect in these senior columns.

I am really going to miss hanging out in the “pub office” with people that I have grown to see as my brothers and sisters. Monday and Tuesday nights are going to

feel weird for a little while.

I am going to miss the conflicting music tastes, banter, scribbling of pens, clicking of computers, rustling of papers and the sense of community.

Not every night was a good one, but our team worked through it together. Coming from someone who does not have much immediate family, this means a lot.

I want to encourage anyone reading this to take stock of the family you have here. It may not always be visible, but it is there.

Do not take the people around you for granted because one day you will also graduate. Also, do not be so hard on yourself. The “mistakes” you make are not always mistakes. You may not be where you pictured yourself at 17, but you are where you are supposed to be.

Height: Size doesn’t Lou: How a mindset turns darkness into light define you; reach for new peaks at WU Continued from B6

if I didn’t attend Waynesburg.

Lou’s death certainly made me value just how precious life is.

It may sound conceited, but I don’t go to college for my own benefit — I do it for Lou, too. He was a fun-loving young man who could brighten up any friend or stranger’s day. He seemed to take advantage of every chance to be a good friend and to simultaneously better his own life.

I wear a necklace with the No. 6 — the number on his soccer jersey — as a daily reminder to impact others and to live my own life to the

fullest. It’s a reminder that I have the opportunity to do the earthly things he no longer can.

In his memory, I’ve chased my dream of becoming a sports broadcaster by learning the trade from a great mentor and calling some of the most exciting moments in Waynesburg sports history.

In his memory, I’ve pushed myself to my physical and mental limits by balancing schoolwork with being Executive Editor and working multiple part-time jobs. That Farrell family work ethic has helped me to win numerous journalism awards (thanks in large part to another great mentor), land stints at WJPA Radio and KDKA-FM, earn

a GPA better than the one I sported in high school — which was based on a 5.0, mind you! — and now has me ready to embark on an exciting opportunity as a news reporter at WBOY in Clarksburg, West Virginia — the next destination on this path. When all that work began to pile up and prospects seemed grim, I reminded myself to push through it for Lou. In that way, Lou still sees me through all my toughest challenges.

In his memory, I’ve forged relationships at Waynesburg and new memories that will last a lifetime.

Through these four years at Waynesburg, I’ve carried Lou with me. Because of that, I’ve been the benefi-

ciary of so much good fortune and so many blessings.

My path, darkened by death, seemed lowly and directionless. What I didn’t realize was that two sources of light – Lou and the Lamp – would shine brighter than I ever could have imagined.

Without Lou in my life, and without all these experiences at Waynesburg, I wouldn’t feel as fulfilled as I am in this moment.

No matter the challenges in your life, you have the ability to thrive, conquer and grow. You have the power to make a nightmare turn into a dream come true. I wish each of you reading this, graduating or returning, the very best as you continue down your own path.

Continued from B6

friends, professors and staff on campus.

It also allots each of us an opportunity to continue to gain knowledge in our specific interests and studies so we can be prepared for the next step after college: a grown up job.

I couldn’t have envisioned a more unique and powerful time as I have had these past four years and I will greatly miss being in college, mainly because I can’t sleep in anymore after Commencement.

Perhaps the most important lesson I’ve learned

here is this: you don’t have to know everything or have your life pieced together while you’re in college; you just need to remember your passion, your dream and your framework (for me, that was Waynesburg) to really reach your big aspirations.

While I may have a tough time reaching things in a grocery store or finding a pair of jeans that don’t drag in the mud, I can say that Waynesburg has allowed me to have the platform to feel tall in my accomplishments, relationships and education and reach a milestone and a high point in my life thus far.

Spotlight

Page B8

April 23, 2015

For Hancher, the transition to college was like coming home Getting involved leads to desire to be a professor

“Coming here [to Waynesburg University] felt like coming home."

ABIGAL HANCHER

Senoir English major

By BRITTANY SEMCO

Graphic Design Editor

Abigail Hancher, a senior English major with a focus in creative writing, is so involved on campus that no one experience sticks out in her mind as the most prominent.

Although a native of Washington, Pennsylvania, Hancher spends most of her time on campus.

She is heavily involved with the university’s Writing Center, where she has had the opportunity to work with undergraduate and graduate students.

Hancher also involves herself by being the President of Sigma Tau Delta, a member of the Muse and Stone Board, playing in the Brass ensemble and acting in this semester’s musical, “Once Upon A Mattress.”

Some of her hobbies, other

Photo courtesy of Abigail Hancher

Abigail Hancher, senior English major with a focus in creative writing, plans to follow up her active Waynesburg career with graduate school at Eastern Washington University. than schoolwork and working in the Writing Center, are reading and watching television series and shows.

Stemming from her experience with the Writing Center, she has had the oppor-

tunity to visit classes such as Composition to help students with their writing, which makes her want to teach at the college level someday.

“I want to primarily be a writer in fiction, poetry

or creative non-fiction but, luckily, I enjoy the idea of being a college professor,” said Hancher. “I’ve enjoyed the experience I’ve had working in the classroom with college students and being able to teach would be a bonus to me, something that would supplement my writing.”

Although she has been extremely involved, Hancher did not originally start her college career at Waynesburg University.

She transferred from John Carroll University after her freshman year to Waynesburg University, a place she describes as “a different atmosphere. Coming here felt like coming home. People are really friendly.”

Hancher also applied to Gettysburg College, Dickinson College and Susquehanna University.

Waynesburg University stuck out in Hancher’s mind right away as the place she should be.

“I really enjoy all of my creative writing classes and I am going to miss classes the most with Amy Randolph,” said Hancher. “The students I had classes with and the professors really made those everyday experiences a time to look forward to.”

Hancher has made many friends on campus, but her role models are her professors.

“One of my professors, Jill Sunday, as far as writing goes, is someone who I really admire,” said Hancher. “She has the family, is a professor and is a writer, which is something I admire.”

Hancher also admires professor Jamie Dessart because of the way she can raise a

family and still be a very respected scholar in her field.

“She is a great professor too. That’s what I want to do, watching those women do it everyday. It’s kind of inspiring,” said Hancher.

Having recently been accepted to Eastern Washington University’s Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) program, Hancher’s goal for after graduation is to earn her M.F.A. and then go on to her Ph.D. with the hopes of teaching college students in the future.

She is someone who thrives when learning and embraces the opportunities that college can bring.

“I’m really driven and really just love learning,” said Hancher. “College has been such a great experience for me, obviously I love it so much I don’t plan on leaving for a few years. I like a lot of things, but felt particularly called to write.”

A lot of her energy is involved in becoming a better writer and “learning all I can about writing so I can be the best that I can be.”

DeCarlo prepares for future in business Forsythe: Student After four years at Waynesburg, senior looks forward to career adds to department

By CHELSEA DICKS

Continued from B5

Managing Editor

Zakk DeCarlo went to college searching for THE college experience. If you know Zakk, you know he is a guy who is up for anything, loves to have fun and is sometimes good at getting out of trouble. If you haven’t seen him in classes, you may have seen him on the soccer field, playing the sport that he loves.

Wherever DeCarlo is, you know a good time is going to follow.

“I chose [Waynesburg University] because of the size of the classes and the soccer program and also because I thought I could have a good time here,” said DeCarlo.

And a good last four years he has had.

From the soccer team defeating Grove City College in 2013 to also passing all of his classes “so far,” DeCarlo looks back at his time here and can’t help but smile and laugh.

He came to Waynesburg knowing that he wanted to do something related to business, so choosing a major was no problem for him.

“Accounting was a good background to do most things related to business,” said DeCarlo.

Through his time here, he has learned a lot of life

Dave Miller, ADM Photography

DeCarlo playing the sport that he loves for the Waynesburg University Yellow Jacket soccer team. One of the reasons he chose Waynesburg.

“I chose [Waynesburg University] because of the size of the classes and the soccer program.”

ZAKK DECARLO

Accounting Major

lessons the easy -- and the hard way. The classes in the Department of Business really helped him learn how to study, and what the best form of studying was for him, while the environment and the lifestyle he lived here taught him how to adapt to any situation.

As he gets ready to graduate, he tries to prepare himself for the work force.

“I got really good at scheduling my classes all on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays,” said DeCarlo. “So it is going to be hard for me to get used to doing stuff on Tuesdays and Thursdays.”

He also says that he is going to miss all the free time and the many nights that he and his friends spent together doing who knows what.

Now with graduation only a few days away, DeCarlo plans on interning at Mylan Pharmaceuticals in Morgantown, West Virginia and living his life to the fullest.

“I know I will end up somewhere eventually, so that’s good enough for me,” said Decarlo.

Eberly Library

EXTENDED FINALS WEEK HOURS SUNDAY, APRIL 26 Noon - 1 a.m.

MONDAY - THURSDAY, APRIL 27 - 30 7:30 a.m. - 1 a.m.

FRIDAY, MAY 1 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Week after finals week begins summer hours: MONDAY - FRIDAY 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Have a great summer! *Resume regular semester hours on August 24, 2015

Good luck on your finals!

stood out because of his willingness to add to the department.

“His work ethic has definitely made him stand out among his peers, as well as his willingness to get involved professionally, his willingness to provide professional service while getting hands-on experience and opportunities to further his education and own professional development,” said Stapleton.

After Forsythe receives his diploma, he plans to work with the Belle Vernon School District as a part of their football team until the following semester, when he plans to attend graduate school at California University of Pennsylvania.

The lasting image at

Waynesburg for Forsythe was getting to share the football field with a couple of his family members.

“My fondest memory was being on the football field with my older cousin that graduated last year, Ronnie Skinner, and then being able to play on the field this year, in my final year, with my younger cousin Tristan Sandrosky,” said Forsythe.

With these final days becoming an even smaller number, Forsythe thinks the bonds he created here at Waynesburg have made his experience so successful.

“The true Waynesburg experience for me is coming in and not knowing anybody, and as the years go by getting to know everybody in your field and around campus and having a good relationship with everybody.”

Faiad: Senior sure of future in psychology Continued from B5

to be and reach what I specifically wanted to do.”

Jellison assisted Faiad with keeping her up to date with current animal labs and studies.

Waynesburg University doesn’t have an animal lab on campus, but that didn’t slow Faiad’s education down, thanks to Jellison incorporating a research class and inde-

pendent study for her.

“When I applied to go to Bucknell, I had to show that this is really what I wanted to go into. Jellison organizing my research class and independent study showed this,” said Faiad. “It also confirmed that these were my favorite classes and being around animals and studying them is what I wanted to do.”

Faiad gave many thanks to Jellison and spoke highly of her time at Waynesburg.

Questions: Learning to love yourself is life’s most important lesson Continued from B6

the bad.

The past four years, I have been able to meet so many great people that have had such a positive impact on my time here and made me love my time at Waynesburg.

This past year, however, I’ve had the opportunity to meet some truly wonderful people that I wish for all the world I could spend more time with. In the past year alone, I’ve met people who I now would consider some of my closest friends in life, who taught me how to live spontaneously and enjoy the little things, I’ve fallen in love with a boy that makes every day sunnier and the

stars at night brighter; and I’ve come to appreciate and love the world around me in ways that I never did before.

Above everything else, though, these past few years I’ve come to realize how important it is to love yourself.

It’s not something that’s easy and I still struggle every day to do so. I’ve learned to ignore the people that only work to bring me down, because at the end of the day, they mean nothing to me.

I’ve learned that I need to accept myself for who I am, flaws and all.

And through learning to love myself, and loving those around me and the places I call home, then I can truly succeed and find my place in this big world.

Spotlight

April 23, 2015

Page B9

Rainelli leads WCYJ with playful attitude May filled with Senior leader guidance, support finds home at in four years at WU Waynesburg Athletics, friendships make senior’s years memorable

By MITCHELL KENDRA For the Yellow Jacket

“When I came in as a freshman, I can tell you I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life. I didn’t know if I should really be in college in all honesty; if that was the right choice to make,” said Brandon Rainelli.

Let’s face it, college is not for everyone.

During his senior year of high school, Rainelli was not sure if he was right for college.

After hearing that fellow classmate Ryan Legarsky would be attending Waynesburg University, Rainelli told Legarsky he would apply and the two could room together.

Although he never looked into the university, he came to the conclusion that attending Waynesburg was the best choice he has ever made.

“I never visited [Waynesburg], never really did the research I probably should have and it just so happened I ended up here,” said Rainelli. “I wouldn’t change that decision for anything because honestly, what I’ve got here in my four years, I don’t believe I could’ve gotten anywhere else. It’s made me into the person that I am today.”

Rainelli knew that he was a hands-on learner, and his college experience was exactly that: what he learned both in the classroom and out in the radio station would be applicable to his sports broadcasting/sports information major.

The real life hands-on experience gained at Waynesburg is one of its most recognized features and has been extremely important for Rainelli.

“You can only feel, in my opinion, so prepared for [life after] college – there has to be some level of uncertainty there, because that’s just how the human brain works – but I feel that Waynesburg has prepared me enough that I am confident that if I get a job in the field of radio that I can really show off my skills,” said

By JENNY SCHOUPPE Convergence Editor

Chad Sherman, Waynesburg University

Brandon Rainelli, senior communication major, works on a project at Trans World Radio in Bonaire during a mission trip. He led the campus radio station for two years as student general manager.

Rainelli. “And compared to somebody else just coming out of college, I am going to be just as good, if not better than them.”

After working in the radio station since his second day on campus freshman year, Rainelli said one of his professors has particularly influenced his work.

“Doug Wilson has honestly made one of the biggest impacts in my life,” said Rainelli. “Not only has he really taught me the ropes of radio, but he has really helped me find my passion for radio and he has become a close friend now with us working so close together.

Anytime that I need him, he has really been there for me.”

Rainelli said that during his junior year, he was having doubts about the path he had chosen to follow.

The close relationships, with both his professors and his classmates, are what

“You have to be happy in what you do, and if you’re yourself, then you’re going to have fun no matter what you do”

BRANDON RAINELLI

Senior communication major

have made Rainelli’s college experience essential to his life.

“Last year I made a connection with a friend – he was a senior, he graduated – whose name was Mack Pulkowski,” said Rainelli.

“When I kind of had my rough time, I was kind of second guessing at one point why I was here, if I was here for the right reasons, and he kind of helped me get back on track. He was always a positive influence. It was almost like he was like the bigger brother that I was never able to have.”

At the time of his high school graduation, Rainelli was afraid of losing all of the close friendships that had

been developing year after year until the day of their graduation.

“I really wanted to keep contact with some of my friends back home, because we came from a very tight group and we all went our own directions,” said Rainelli. “I went to college, I went out on a limb and I changed as a person, but I still kept the same friendships that I did in high school.”

While keeping his high school friends by his side, and creating new relationships for his other side, Rainelli said that his happiness at Waynesburg has See WCYJ on B11

Senior hopes to pour heart into future sermons

‘Rocked’ by faith, Ziegler hopes to do the same in future

By ANTHONY CONN

For the Yellow Jacket

Hailing from the small, humble town of Keystone, Pennsylvania, senior religion and philosophy major Dylan Ziegler is preparing for a big step in his life.

Yes, he is graduating, but unlike many of his classmates, Ziegler has his eyes on the pulpit.

Seminary may seem like a terribly intimidating aspiration to some, but Ziegler has been thinking about it for almost four years.

He originally signed up for Waynesburg University’s youth ministry program approaching his freshman year, but came to the realization that he had an interest in studying theology and complex ideas.

Ziegler enjoyed the religion and philosophy classes he took at Waynesburg and appreciated the new ideas the professors brought his way.

His faith was “rocked,” and at first not in a good way.

He said that the Biblical Ministry Studies program was a bit difficult initially because of his traditional Christian upbringing.

However, he now knows

Photo Courtesy Dylan Ziegler

Dylan Ziegler, a senior biblical ministries studies and philosophy major, has had his sights set on seminary for four years since arriving at Waynesburg. how to approach people with ideas extremely different from his.

“There’s so many different perspectives, so many different ways to look at the Bible and to look at God,” said Ziegler. “You have to be able to appreciate them without accepting them. You have to be able to respect them without agreeing with them.

I think that’s the biggest way that my faith has grown.”

This major also aided him in preparation to go to seminary.

Ziegler’s been accepted to three seminary schools. He

is leaning toward Princeton at the moment, while Duke and Asbury are still respectable options.

Choosing Princeton would allow him to pursue a doctorate if he wants, but, in Ziegler’s opinion, that just may be too many classes for his enjoyment.

After four years of classes and work in the ministry at Waynesburg, Ziegler feels that he is ready to move on.

Above all else, he said he will miss the people and the sense of community on campus.

Ziegler has also been able

to share his musical talents, playing drums numerous times on campus.

Most recently he was a part of the band “Nameless and Famous” that won second place at WU’s Got Talent.

He also has played in the chapel worship band.

At home, Zeigler is heavily involved in his church’s youth group, Engage.

Dylan Ziegler has poured his heart into everything he has done at Waynesburg, and if he pours that same passion into his future sermons, maybe that church will be “rocked” just as he was.

Four years ago, Samantha May visited Waynesburg University. During her visit, she immediately fell in love with the atmosphere of the school.

May, who is originally from Carmichaels, Pennsylvania, attended Carmichaels Area High School and wanted to remain close to home in the move to college..

For May, who majors in environmental science and minors in business management, Waynesburg was the school that stood out from all the others.

“It was close to home and had a friendly, home-like environment,” said May. “Everyone was helpful and friendly, making my tour here enjoyable.”

Throughout May’s time spent here at Waynesburg University, she has played for the women’s soccer team for one season, been a member of the EcoStewards Club and also been a musician in the Symphonic Band

and multiple ensembles.

T he p ast fou r ye ars would not have been as memorable for May if it wasn’t for the friendships that she built. May said that her friends have been there and supported her since day one on campus.

“Making lifelong friendships has been my favorite part about attending Waynesburg,” said May. “I’ll never forget all the adventures that we have had together over the years.”

The friendships are not the only thing that May has gained through her college experience.

According to May, she feels she has received the skills to be successful in life.

“All of the resources that are made readily available coupled with the excellent faculty and staff have made me more than prepared to go out in the real world,” said May. May has recently accepted a full time position with her current employer for after she graduates in May and she’s excited to graduate and start a career.

Job in admissions paves way for senior psychology major Digiandomenico set to return to Waynesburg after graduation

By KARA BEMER

Advertising Director

“The psychology department is medium sized, providing a unique experience; my classmates and I share many of our classes together,” said Kyle Digiandomenico, a senior psychology major and child development and biblical and ministries studies minor. “It was four years of working on this degree together. We worked on research projects together, failed tests together, served together on mission trips outside of the department. I have become a family with my classmates, we know how we each work, strengths and weaknesses, and push each other. My classmates and professors hold each other accountable and push each of us to succeed.”

Digiandomenico will graduate Waynesburg University in May, but will return to campus in the fall, as he will begin to pursue his masters and serve as a graduate assistant.

Accepting the offer to complete his master’s degree at Waynesburg University was a “no-brainer,” as Digiandomenico sensed his time was not yet finished at Waynesburg as he explained his passion for the institution and its mission of faith, learning and service.

Digiandomenico not only enjoys working as a tour guide for the office of admissions but also has a deep appreciation for his professors and their devotion to students.

“The professors truly care and put effort in wanting you to succeed. They always have their doors open and invite us to have a conversation about anything; life, friend problems, a vent session, even going to see them when we are angry, they will listen,” said Digiandomenico.

“The professors have experience and can tell me what works and what doesn’t and they encourage me constantly," said Digiandomenico. "I give tours and I always tell people that your advisors

nurture you and feed time into you here, and this is because in the end it will be a success.”

Digiandomenico had the opportunity to intern at the Cleveland Clinic this past summer and work on research in a clinical center setting.

However, before completing his internship, he had a hard time deciding if it was where he wanted to spend his summer.

“I had an opportunity to intern at Cleveland Clinic or to work at a summer camp. I didn’t know what to choose, so I consoled with Dr. [Jamie] Jellison [associate professor of psychology],” said Digiandomenico. “Jellison pushed me in the right direction, telling me that if I didn’t, it would be a mistake.

Getting to work in a research and clinical center prepared me and opened my eyes to what physiologists do everyday. I finally took the opportunity and it was because Jellison gave me the confidence and security to have this life changing opportunity.”

Ultimately, after completing his masters, Digiandomenico wants to travel internationally and serve as a therapist in an orphanage.

Digiandomenico has served on the Guatemala mission trip four times, each time knowing that the children of the South-American country give him inspiration and love in an inexplicable way.

His dream is to return the love and inspiration the children he interacted with in Guatemala gave him daily through serving as a therapist in an orphanage down the road in his life.

“I would like to recognize Jellison, Dr. Keith Reider [professor of psychology] and Dr. Michele Karpathian [professor of psychology] for being the foundation and rock to lean on when things got tough and when I needed them most, they were there,” said Digiandomenico. “That’s not something other people have at other universities and I cannot thank them enough.”

Spotlight

Page B10

April 23, 2015

Petrone pursues path to help others Sociology major From Student places main focus Senate to on relationships major, senior wanted to be involved

By ABBY WERNERT

Chief Photographer

By ROB LONGO Sports Editor

Senior chemistry and forensic science major Cara Petrone knows how to stay busy.

As a freshman, she was eager to get to work helping others and becoming involved.

Not much changed during those few short months between high school and college for Petrone, an alumnae of nearby CanonMcMillan High School and Canonsburg, Pennsylvania native.

In high school, Petrone was involved as a majorette in the Big Mac Marching Band, while participating in theatre and being an active member of the National Honor Society. However, one thing did change when Petrone chose to further her education.

“I just wanted to get involved when I first came here,” she said. “I was really shy when I was in high school, which is hard to believe. I’ve always been really quiet and introverted, but when I got to college I wanted to break out of my shell and get involved. I think I went a little overboard and got involved in too many things.”

When it came down to choosing the right school, there wasn’t much of a decision to make once Petrone toured Waynesburg and previewed the forensics program.

She looked at Duquesne,

Photo Courtesy Cara Petrone

Despite all of senior forensic science major Cara Petrone's accomplishments in her academic field, her biggest at Waynesburg was with Student Senate. which was her “dream school for forever” for its forensic law program, but Waynesburg was too much of a perfect fit.

It also didn’t hurt that her and her twin sister, Rhianna, wanted to go to different schools, as Rhianna elected to attend nearby Bethany College.

“We knew we wanted to separate and be our own person now and go to different schools,” said Petrone.

Petrone has quite a few favorite memories and proud accomplishments from her time at Waynesburg, but her favorite by far is all of the work and dedication she put into the now-annual Harvest Festival held in Johnson Commons each fall.

When Petrone was a freshman, the festival was still in its infancy, something that she takes a lot

of pride for what it has become.

“I was a senator at the time,” she said. “I was able to develop it and it’s become my child, and now I have to give it up and it makes me sad.”

There may be a regret or two that each college student has during their four years.

For some, it’s as little as wishing they didn’t spend as much time studying to enjoy the company of their friends. For others, like Petrone, it was the choice of major.

“I would change my major to biochemistry instead of forensic science,” Petrone said. “It would help with the kind of jobs I’m looking into now. Most people see forensic science and don’t really know what it is. They think you’re more of an investiga-

Long wait turned blessing for Law

tor instead of a scientist.”

As far as career goals go, Petrone still wants to help others as she did with her involvement in Student Senate.

“I would love to work in molecular biology or biochemistry to help people, ideally with cancer or any other diseases,” she said.

“That’s what I ultimately want to do.”

But as graduation closes in and the “real world” approaches, Petrone is enthusiastic to see what lies for her down the road.

“I’m excited to start a life now; now that I’m going to be graduating,” Petrone said. “I’ll have time to read now and I’ll have more time to see my family, friends and my boyfriend. I’m also really thankful for all the professors that have put up with me for four years.”

Most seniors at Waynesburg have called the university home for the past four years.

Sociology major Rachael Brown, however, only started at Waynesburg last year, after transferring from Community College of Allegheny County “There are some ups and downs of transferring,” said Brown. “I definitely liked Waynesburg.”

Brown said what she liked most about Waynesburg was the community, the size of the school and the Christian mission.

“It’s a nice little school,” said Brown.

While at CCAC, Brown managed to get done with most of her general education requirements; it was not until she transferred to Waynesburg that she declared a major in sociology.

Although she originally wanted to major in human services, Brown said there was no way she could have fit in all of the credits if she wanted to graduate in two years.

With that in mind, Brown was considering either sociology or psychology.

“I’m super indecisive. I can’t make choices to save my life,” said Brown. “I knew I wanted to work with people.”

After meeting with Brian Carr, Brown was able to make a decision and declared her major as sociology.

Despite being in the major for only two years, Brown has come to enjoy both the people in her major and the classes she takes.

“It’s kind of interesting because most of the sociology classes are taught by Ezekiel

[Olagoke] and he connects a lot of his classes,” said Brown.

“What I really like about Ezekiel and how he kind of views sociology is he really likes to take things from history and make them relevant to today in our lives.”

Brown said she best liked how her classes would take the topic being discussed and relate it to real life experiences rather than simply talking about the theories behind it.

In her classes, Brown explained that most of the time, they would be required to read novels composed of people with real life experiences, and one book in particular, “Gang Leader for a Day,” hit Brown the hardest.

Besides her classes, Brown has also made many friends during her short time at Waynesburg.

“I just never really found my niche in things,” said Brown.

“I guess what I just zoned in on was my relationships with people.”

Despite being a senior, a large majority of the friends she has gotten close to are only sophomores, which is something she said is bittersweet.

Brown said that while she would be able to visit, she would be leaving most of her friends behind.

Although she would be leaving the majority of her friends behind, the time she spent with her friends is some of her most favorite moments from Waynesburg.

“I’ve had a lot of really good, just raw life conversations where people have been open about themselves,” said Brown. “I really appreciate when people are honest about See BROWN on B11

Commitment to Relay, education reflects success

By KIMMI BASTON Managing Editor

Photo courtesy Jimmy Law

Jimmy Law, senior children's and youth ministry major, was undecided until his final day of his freshman year. The wait turned out to be a blessing.

Senior plans for career in ministry, youth leadership

By ANTHONY CONN

For the Yellow Jacket

As the familiar proverb goes, “Good things come to those who wait.”

For senior Jimmy Law, this phrase has appeared to come true.

Law, a children’s and youth ministry major, was undecided until the final day of his freshman year.

The Erie, Pennsylvania native originally sought after Waynesburg’s marine biology program, but quickly realized that he would rather step out of the water and make fishers of men.

Law found the Biblical and ministry studies program challenging and quite thought provoking.

“You really learn how to think about things,” said Law. “To deeply examine your faith, why you believe what you believe, who Jesus is.”

Law was able to make up for his early indecision

and compete the necessary classes in three years.

In addition to his involvement in his major, Law has enjoyed his time spent with concert and touring choir.

Through these various activities, Law has made friendships that he admits will be hard to let go of.

“I don’t even consider them friends; they’re my family now,” Law said.

One of Law’s fondest memories that he will be leaving behind at Waynesburg is the founding of the Christian fellowship group, Ekklesia, which meets regularly on Saturday nights.

Law, along with friend and housemate Dylan Ziegler, formed the group their sophomore year, during a time that they felt the students needed a spiritual uplifting.

Throughout the past few years, Ekklesia has been a haven for many students pursuing God on a personal level.

Law and other leaders of the group have also hosted holiday events and unique worship opportunities for those in attendance.

Ekklesia has still been going strong this year, but Law fears that it may see its end after graduation, unless someone steps up and takes the reigns.

“That’s the nature of ministry,” said Law. “If there’s a need for it, it’ll exist.”

Law plans to take his desire for sharing the Word of God beyond commencement.

He applied for a camp counselor position, where he looks to take a step toward ministry.

He hopes to eventually go into full-time ministry as a youth group leader.

No matter where life takes him after graduation, Law knows that God has a plan for his life.

He believes that his ministry will go to wherever it is needed and to whoever needs it the most.

Bethany Orndoff ’s time at Waynesburg University was paradoxical.

She was extremely involved in extracurricular activities and was a leader in one; she completed her education degree after years of observations and student teaching outside of regular class time; and she maintained a 4.0 GPA through it all.

Her word to describe her college life? Carefree.

“Now that it’s almost over you think, it’s almost carefree in a sense where you always get to talk to your friends,” said Orndoff. “You have deadlines and you have tests, but at the same time, we’re still being able to have fun and enjoy each other’s company, and I’m realizing that this chapter’s going to close and a new one’s going to start.”

Before she can move on to the next chapter, Orndoff must say goodbye to all the people and things she loves about Waynesburg.

As a math secondary education major, Orndoff has been committed to the education department, and she believes it has given back to her hugely in the form of real world experience. The knowledge she gained came through when it was put to the test during her semester of student teaching.

“You really get to see how things work and in the classroom, and then once you’re student teaching, you think about ‘oh, I remember talking about this,’ and you actually get to implement things,” said Orndoff. “Just the preparedness that [the education professors] give you – I didn’t have problems student teaching; I thoroughly enjoyed it and I know that that’s

Photo courtesy Bethany Orndoff

Bethany Orndoff hopes to land a full-time teaching job upon graduation and has put in applications in Waynesburg. what I’m supposed to do.”

Orndoff ’s solid career goals made it a relief to find people at Waynesburg who shared her dreams and could identify with her tribulations.

“My favorite thing about Waynesburg is meeting people who have the same goals as you, career wise, and being able to work with them with the content,” said Orndoff.

“It’s nice to be around people who have things in common and are there for each other no matter what’s going on.”

While Orndoff admits that she will probably miss her friends more than anything else about the university, she also knows that she will miss being involved in Relay for Life.

She got involved in Relay because her mother is a cancer survivor, and the annual event quickly became one of her best memories while in college.

Her junior and senior year, she was a relay captain and online chair for Colleges Against Cancer.

Besides Relay, Orndoff is involved with Peer Educators and worked a part time job at least 20 hours a week for two years of her college career. As such, she feels that the fact she maintained a 4.0 GPA is something to be extremely proud of as she graduates.

“It’s something that I worked hard for, so I’m just excited to be able to have that achievement,” said Orndoff.

Orndoff originally chose Waynesburg University because she wanted to remain close to home in Waynesburg, and the same is true for her future plans.

She has interviewed for a teaching position in Waynesburg and put applications in for several more around the state, and she hopes to have landed a full-time teaching job by the end of May.

Spotlight

April 23, 2015

Page B11

Snavely enjoyed numerous service Grad to continue WU education trips and a semester studying abroad Graduate to study masters in Clinical Mental Health

By ANTHONY CONN

For the yellow jacket

By the time a Waynesburg University senior reaches graduation, it is pretty clear to them that their soon-to-be alma mater boasts a motto of “Faith, Learning and Service.” For Rachel Snavely, a senior Latin American studies major, this motto has stayed close to her heart.

Snavely, originally from Manheim, Pennsylvania, has enjoyed a college career filled with numerous service trips outside of the United States and a semester studying abroad.

What is even more impressive is that Snavely has done all of this in just three years.

Snavely started her time at Waynesburg as a dual major of youth ministry and music ministry. Staying within the Biblical Ministry Studies program, she decided to switch to Latin American studies, and took a full course load over the summer to stay on track for graduation.

“My classes were very influential in helping me decide what I was going to do with the rest of my life and helped me understand my faith a lot more,” Snavely said.

According to Snavely, this

By KARA BEMER

Advertising Director

Photo courtesy Rachel Snavely

Senior Latin American studies major Rachel Snavely switched majors, taking on a massive summer workload to stay on track for graduation. better understanding of her faith has allowed spiritual growth during her time in college.

“Coming to Waynesburg definitely opened my eyes to see that there is more to faith than just what we are taught in Sunday school,” said Snavely. “Realizing that really transformed my faith.”

Snavely said that studying abroad also transformed her faith. She liked the unconventional teaching methods used in Costa Rica as well as the idea of practicing her faith in another country.

She has been to Guatemala

four times, going twice with Waynesburg.

Snavely hopes that her life of service does not stop there.

After she graduates Snavely will spend the summer working at a camp, where she hopes to further develop her skills working with children.

She ultimately hopes to go back to Guatemala and find a permanent job there.

It is safe to say that Rachel Snavely has the heart of a servant and truly wishes to make a lasting impact on others no matter where life will take her.

Kaelee Franko will be graduating in May as a psychology major with childdevelopment and self-development minors.

Franko has utilized her time at Waynesburg University to prepare her for life after graduation.

She plans to move back north and attend graduate school in pursuit of her masters in Clinical Mental Health at Waynesburg University’s Seven Fields campus.

Franko also plans to have a part-time job while in graduate school, but is still in the interview process for positions.

Franko has found that mental disabilities are the specific area of psychology

STAFF REPORT

Nine Yellow Jacket seniors are off to bigger and better things after graduation (we hope).

Nick Farrell, executive editor, will become a news reporter at WBOY in Clarksburg, West Virginia. After serving two year-long terms as editor, Farrell will reside in Waynesburg as he works out of WBOY’s Morgantown bureau.

After serving three years on executive staff after transferring from Grove City, Chelsea Dicks, managing editor, will continue working part-time at the ObserverReporter in Washington, Pennsylvania. Dicks interned with the Observer-Reporter in 2013 and has worked as a stringer for that publication for two years.

Rob Longo, sports editor, will continue working as a news anchor at WJPA in Washington and in a seasonal role with MLB Advanced Media, in addition to working with the MSA Sports

Network and the Beaver County Times.

Abby Wernert, chief photographer, plans to take the summer off or search for an internship in her field.

Her ultimate career goal is to pursue a journalism or writing career in the field of either science or fashion, where she can continue to tell the stories of others and make a difference with her work.

Luke Campbell, sports editorial assistant, is returning to his hometown of Cabot, Pennsylvania for the time being. He can’t wait to see what comes his way.

After a year as graphic design editor, Brittany Semco plans to tour northern Europe this summer.

Assistant graphic design editor Megan Potosky has accepted a full-time marketing and design position at USG Insurance in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, where she has worked part-time since October.

Kara Bemer, advertising director, accepted a position

as an account manager at ECRM in Solon, Ohio. There, she’ll be in charge of planning events for clients near her native Cleveland.

Replacements for these nine executive staff members have been named. Kimmi Baston will serve as the paper’s leader in the executive editor role. Jacob Meyer will take over as sports editor.

Other managing editors will include Anthony Conn, Shon Meade and Mitch Kendra.

In her third year as an executive staff member, Jenny Schouppe will become chief photographer.

Whitney Waters will assume the role of graphic design editor.

Adam Tapparo will head the Yellow Jacket’s business department as advertising director, with Autumn Foust and Casey Heimberger serving as assistant advertising directors.

The complete executive staff for the 2015-16 school year will be unveiled in the first issue of Volume 92 next Fall.

and refining my own goals in the environment here at Waynesburg, I gained a better understanding of others, which I believe has helped me understand all the options that are available to work in this field.”

Franko favors the “small campus atmosphere,” and shares that she has found compassionate professors who find pride in their students’ achievements.

“Teachers want their students to succeed and offer advice and necessary tools for those who are willing to try,” said Franko. “It is encouraging to work hard and have people there who are excited for us as students to succeed, and be looking forward to our future accomplishments.”

Franko encourages future students to try to be organized, plan ahead and work hard while searching for whatever career path is meant for them.

“Despite all the stress that will occur, things generally work out for the best,” said Franko.

Dedication to communication leads Semco to career in design

By MITCHELL KENDRA For the Yellow Jacket

Jacket senior staffers move on, underclassmen move up

that she has a passion for in her field.

“I did an internship working with individuals with a mental disability who require living assistance,” said Franko.

“I would say it was a vital experience to preparing me for the future. I did a lot of research on the options in the area."

"My internship gave me hands-on experience in my field and was very useful in helping me through the interviewing process that I am now still refining for my after school career," said Franko.

Franko credits Waynesburg University for her foundation of success for her internship, personal life and future career.

“Waynesburg has helped prepare me in both professional and personal aspects,” said Franko. “With a lot of personal growth courses, I was able to explore my own beliefs to become a more understanding and competent individual. By developing

The small town feel is something that influences students who plan on attending college. Some will want to keep the small, close feel that they had at their high school, while others want to go out and attend a university with several thousand students in every year.

A small town was familiar, so to Brittany Semco, choosing a small college was ideal.

Growing up in Jamestown, Rhode Island, Semco was one of six total students in her graduating class in high school. Now Semco will join her several hundred Waynesburg classmates on May 3 as Waynesburg holds its 164th Commencement ceremony.

A double major in digital design and public relations, Semco has interests in both fields.

Semco has taken her skills she has learned in her classes and has applied them outside of the classroom. Working as the public relations director for the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) chapter on campus, the graphic design editor for the campus newspaper and a graphic designer for University Relations, Semco is gaining the real world experience that will benefit her after she graduates in the beginning of May. Semco started working as a graphic designer for University Relations during the second semester of her freshman year.

Semco credits the Senior Designer of University Relations, Carrie McAfee, as one of the most influential people during her time at Waynesburg. McAfee said Semco will be very successful in whatever she pursues after graduation.

“I think she will be very prepared,” said McAfee.

“Over time we have been able to give her a little more responsibility on her projects, which I think gives her new experiences each time.

For the most part [with our supervision] on her projects lately, she has been able to go from start to completion.”

After completing her junior year at Waynesburg, Semco interned at Hasbro, in the Graphic Design department.

Semco would like to thank McAfee, all of the communication professors and her friends for all of the support during her time at Waynesburg.

“Very well, I believe,” said Semco on how Waynesburg has prepared her for the future. “I did my internship at Hasbro, the toy company, and I found that I knew how to do everything that they asked me to do and more.”

Semco said that Cori Schipani, a 2014 graduate, is someone who she wants to be like. “[Cori] was the graphic design editor before me for the paper,” said Semco. “She did everything really, really well and with a lot of passion, so I wanted to aspire to be like her.”

During this past fall semester, Semco worked as the principle designer for the wall wrap that was put up in the fourth floor hallway of Buhl Hall as her practicum project. As the semester ended, which usually means the course materials will end, Semco continued to work on the project for several weeks after the spring semester began until the wall wrap was completed.

Richard Krause, chairperson for the Department of Communication, noticed Semco’s hard work during her practicum course, but was not surprised when she kept working on it –he expected her dedication to keep her going until she had finished what she started.

Krause is one of the different public relations professors who have had Semco throughout her four years at Waynesburg.

“The whole range of experiences that she’s had here are really reflected in her work; she is a really good designer,” said Krause. “We’re very lucky to have had her here.”

Semco summed up her Waynesburg career by saying something that is reflective of all of the hard work she has done.

“Everything that I did, I tried to do my best at. I wanted to be the best at what I did. I don’t know if I got there, but that’s what I tried to do. To me, you can’t just do something; you have to do something to your best ability. So that’s what I try to do in and outside of classes.”

Brown: Planning to make a difference Continued from B10

their lives.”

With graduation soon approaching, Brown said she really wants to get a dog and

to possibly find work with a non-profit organization in the Pittsburgh area.

“I want to be at a job where I am somehow making a difference in someone’s life somewhere,” said Brown. “I really

want to do my best to be loving towards other people.”

Brown said a dream job is more about your attitude toward what you are doing than what it is you are actually doing.

WCYJ: Senior makes lasting frienships Continued from B9

come from the close relationships he has formed.

Rainelli said his personal legacy at Waynesburg is the combination of business and casual.

While he is a hard worker, he is glad that he has had the opportunity to enjoy his college experience by having fun throughout the process.

“You have to be happy in what you do, and if you’re yourself, then you’re going

to have fun no matter what you do,” said Rainelli.

Lanny Frattare, Special Assistant to University Relations and Assistant Professor of Communication, spoke highly of Rainelli's leadership skills among other things as a "good leader" graduates.

“He’s a very dedicated and hard-working individual who has every reason to be proud of the direction and leadership he’s given to the radio station," said Frattare. "Years from now when I look back and think about

Brandon, I’ll remember his positive attitude. He always goes around saying ‘it’s just another day in paradise.’”

Rainelli said that his time at Waynesburg has been imperative to success he hopes to accomplish in his future.

“Thanks to all of the professors and all of the students that I got to deal with in my four years. Without them it would not have been the same experience.

I have really met some great people here and I don’t know where I would be without them."

Page B12

Spotlight

April 23, 2015

SECTION C

APRIL 23, 2015 | WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY | THEYELLOWJACKET.ORG

Undergrads plan for future, present at research symposium

By ZACH DIBERADIN

For the Yellow Jacket

On the beautiful and sunfilled weekends, typical college students can be found outside enjoying the nice weather.

The parks throughout campus become a hub of activity by the majority of students.

There are a few students that were not able to enjoy the sunshine and beautiful weather this past Saturday; instead, they were advancing their careers.

A handful of students were presenting their research projects at the 5th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, hosted in Alumni Hall.

The Undergraduate Research Symposium gives students a platform to share the research they have conducted.

A quick walk through Alumni Hall showed the students presenting and sharing their research on a wide variety of research topics as the sun shone through the stained glass. Many chose to

do a display board sharing their procedures and results and expanding upon their overall research in an oral manner. Others chose to give a podium presentation providing an in-depth look at their research and conclusions.

All of the students that participated worked with an advisor during their research projects.

This is very similar to working with an employer in the career field.

“Personally conducting research on my own was fan-

tastic,” said Kody Edwards, a senior chemistry major. “It let me understand how it will be working a job with having an advisor just for guidance and letting you conduct your own work and being able to validate yourself.”

The Undergraduate Research Symposium also allows students to gain experience with hands-on lab work, leading the students to the possibilities of further research and putting them on the right career paths.

“I plan on continuing my research that I presented at

the symposium because it is interesting and I believe I have some great directions to head in to get validated results,” said Edwards. “I enjoyed my time doing this research because I would love my career to head in the direction of working in a lab and doing research.”

Rachel Lovely, a senior biology major with a minor in psychology, hopes that this experience will help her stand out in her future endeavors in continuing her education.

“With the many volunteer

opportunities Waynesburg provides, having research on that resume really helps set you apart from the applicant pool with highly competitive residency programs,” said Lovely.

Getting involved in the Undergraduate Research Symposium is a great way to help connect classroom knowledge and apply it to a functional research project. If you are interested in participating in next year’s symposium, email Chad Sethman at csethman@ waynesburg.edu.

Housing Relay for Life: Campus takes on cancer policy draws criticism Students and local landlords affected by change

By ROB LONGO Sports Editor

For the past couple of weeks, members of the class of 2018 at Waynesburg University have been trying to piece together what their future will look like three years from now because of the university’s new policy change regarding off-campus housing.

For students that have matriculated after the fall of 2014, living off campus will no longer be an option for seniors.

Chris Hardie, assistant dean of Student Services, said the idea was discussed by members of the administration in December of 2013, based off trends from other Christian schools in higher education.

Hardie estimated that 80 to 90 percent of other Christianaffiliated schools have policies where students — with the exception of commuters — are required to remain in on-campus housing for four years.

At the time the studies were conducted, Hardie was not affiliated with any housing decisions.

“There was no real reason for it; we just did some reSee HOUSING on C4

Abby Wernert, Yellow Jacket

Students Addy Pazzynski, Abby Hancher, Amanda Stillings and Amber Lambing perform at the Mini Relay for Life Sunday, April 19. Their music was part of various entertainment provided for those who attended and donated at Relay.

Colleges Against Cancer brings community together to raise money for research

By KARA BEMER

Advertising Director

Despite the dreaded rain and strong winds, the Mini Relay for Life, held on campus Sunday, April 19, was a great success.

Waynesburg University’s Mini Relay for Life holds a special value to many students and faculty on campus as a chance to gather together to help support a strong cause: the fight against cancer.

Student organizations and clubs fundraise together to donate proceeds

to the American Cancer Society.

Before the day of the event, online fundraising was made available through the American Cancer Society website as well as on the day of the fundraiser.

Clubs and organizations set up tables throughout Johnson Commons with different treats, games and goodies to help raise more money to donate.

Kelley Hardie, assistant dean of Student Services, serves as the liaison between Waynesburg University and Colleges Against Cancer, where

her duties include organizing logistics and preparation for the day of the event.

Before the day of the event, there were many meetings and behind the scenes tasks.

Hardie has always been involved in planning Waynesburg University’s Mini Relay for Life as the American Cancer Society holds an important meaning in her life.

“When Chris [Hardie] and I were going through the church for preparation for our marriage we wanted to dedicate our marriage to a charity,”

said Hardie. “We chose the American Cancer Society not only because cancer has affected our family, but both of us had young friends in their early 20s who lost the battle to cancer. Now that we have Madison, our daughter, there is even a bigger reason to fight against cancer and one day ultimately win the battle.”

Aside from Hardie, Theresa Butler, senior accounting major, serves as the president of Colleges Against Cancer and the chair of Relay for Life.

See RELAY on C4

Alumni musicians return to the WU stage Military family

members share advice, inspiration

By SHON MEADE

For the Yellow Jacket

Traditions have always been a part of Waynesburg’s promising outlook.

One of the things that Waynesburg has prided itself on having since 1849 is a tradition of faith.

Events and activities become traditions with the school, too. One tradition that keeps bringing people back to campus is the annual performance of a rock band out of New Jersey.

The Gross National Product will be having its 45th anniversary concert in the Goodwin Performing Arts Center on April 25 starting at 7:30 p.m.

Admission is free.

The group started out during a time in which rock bands were forming left and right in New Jersey.

In the late 1960s, this was also the case with GNP, as a group of friends got together and formed a band.

‘Joining Forces’ program brings military persons to campus

By JACOB MEYER Managing Editor

Photo Courtesy of Bill Molzon

The members of Gross National Product rotate, but the original founders are still involved. Above is Bruce Johnson, an original member who recently passed away.

Bill Molzon, professor of communication, was one of the founding members of GNP and plays guitar with the group.

Molzon brought the idea of bringing GNP to Waynes-

burg in the spring of his freshman year in 1970. Since then they have regularly performed here. The group has also performed at two Rain Day Festivals that are held in town.

As time progressed, community members and students have been added to play with the original members. No one year will have See GNP on C5

Students gathered in the lecture hall in Stewart Hall on April 19 for the “Joining Forces- Recognizing the Military Family” event.

The event was led by two senior nursing students, T.J. Brownfield and Jackie Bindus, as part of a nursing course at Waynesburg.

“This event was put on as part of the Community Health Nursing course,” said Melanie Chrash, Assistant Professor of nurs-

ing. “We have a partnership with the White House called Joining Forces.”

This Joining Forces program is the sixth one to be held at Waynesburg.

“The purpose of the Joining Forces program is to connect military families with the resources available to them, and rallying our country to do even more,” Chrash said.

After an introduction by Brownfield about the topic of the military family, he introduced the panel, which consisted of four members who had different perspectives about their personal experiences.

The members of the panel were Deven Schei, Heather Steele, Amy Boyles See JOIN on C2

Campus

Page C2

April 23, 2015

Semester’s final coffeehouse features all original music

By SHON MEADE

For the Yellow Jacket

With the end of the spring semester coming to a close and finals rapidly approaching, the Student Activities Board has not slowed down with the events for students to participate in. Christian artist Seth Abram came out to Waynesburg for a performance in the Beehive on April 15.

He was the last performer for this year’s collection of Coffeehouse acts. It was not his first time on campus, as Abram performed back August of last year at Waynesburg.

“I love the small campus and town” said Abram.

While the music was playing, SAB provided mugs and Starbuck’s coffee for those listeners in the audience. A variety of cookies and snacks were also provided to go along with the coffee.

“I really love coffee, and that’s the main essence of a Coffeehouse,” said Ashley Farber, a junior computer science major.

Over 50 students came out for the event in the Beehive

Roomel Reese, Yellow Jacket

Tennessee artist Seth Abram (right) performed with peer Seth Creekmore on Wednesday, April 15. The performance consisted of exclusively original music. to see Abram perform.

Abram was not the only Seth up on stage however: Seth Creekmore accompanied Abram while he was on stage. Both artists provided a collection of humor while they continued playing

throughout the evening.

The first song that the duo played was the song “Fighters,” and it got the crowd moving. Abram performed all original songs he has written on his own.

Other original pieces that

he has written are “Grace is Leading You”, “I Remember You” and “Talking Mountains.”

“Talking Mountains” was given away as a free download to all those that came out for the Coffeehouse.

These songs and more can be found on Amazon, iTunes and Bandcamp.

Also, Abram finished recording his new album the day before coming to Waynesburg, which meant he played a lot of new, un-

heard material.

“It’s nice to come to a late night dinner and sit down to some quality entertainment” said Hayes Salancy, sophomore athletic training major.

Abram mentioned how he has a ten month old at home in Tennessee and that is made it a new experience for him in life. By the end of the night, students were either clapping or snapping their fingers along to the music by both of the Seth’s that were up on stage.

Abram is an independent artist who has been an artist for all of his life. His musical career finally took off thanks to a kickstarter campaign and was able to produce his first album because of it.

“Keeping truth in front of me at all times,” is what Abram said helps him keep his faith in his everyday life.

“Thinking about friends, family and the bible help me make the right choices.”

This was the last Coffeehouse for the spring semester. There will for sure be more to come in the fall semester to bring entertainment and fun for students to enjoy.

Venturing Crew to travel to Join: Students learn from insight West Virginia, New Mexico shared by former service people

By KYLE DAWSON

Editorial Assistant

Waynesburg University’s Venturing Crew, Crew 1849, will take two trips this summer as it continues to make its presence known on campus since its establishment in 2013.

The first trip will take place from June 14-20 in Glen Jean, West Virginia at the Marksman event at the Summit Bechtel Reserve.

The second, from August 16-22, will be a bit further from campus as members of the university faculty, as well as crew members, will head to Cimarron, New Mexico and the Philmont Scout Ranch for the Wood Badge 114 leadership training course.

Before the crew embarks on their two journeys, it is looking for more awareness for the group, as it is still looking for membership since becoming an official group in 2013.

“We are a very high-adventure based group,” said Parker Kantos, a junior member and co-founder of Venturing Crew. “It is less of the educational side of Boy Scouts and more of the fun, camping and hiking part.”

The Venturing Crew tried to go on a trip during spring break, but it fell through as a result of a lack of interest.

“I don’t know if it was a lack of interest for the actual trip or if it was just about the fundraising and funds

“It is less of the educational side of Boy Scouts and more of the fun, camping and hiking part.”

PARKER KANTOS

Co-founder of Venture Crew

for it,” said Kantos. “This high-adventure stuff isn’t exactly cheap, so that may have been an issue.”

The first trip for the summer is the one to Summit Bechtel Reserve.

The cost for interested students, according to the crew advisor and university provost Dr. Jacquelyn Core, is $900, but it is allinclusive.

The Marksman program, according to the summitbsa.org, is a seven-day/ six-night program running Sunday through Saturday.

It consists of three days of shooting and archery activities, which may include trap, five-stand, steel challenge, pistol, long distance rifle, 3D archery, long distance archery and sporting arrows.

According to Summit’s website, “As a bonus, each member of your crew will also be able to select three additional elective activities at other Summit adventure venues. A half-day service project and a ride on the Big Zip – our 3⁄4 mile zip line – round out your week.”

There are a lot of different sports and adventurebased events that students can try their hand at on the trip, including others outside of the zip line and

archery activities, according to Core.

The second trip, a leadership course in New Mexico that Crew 1849 will take in August, involves the Woodbadge 114 course.

“We took the trip last year and we basically spent a week in the mountains learning all kinds of things about leadership,” said Kantos.

Crew members who attend the trip receive a cowboy hat that they are required to wear all week.

“I would recommend wearing it all the time,” said Kantos. “They keep the sun out of your eyes. But, the trip is a great experience and a lot of fun. Philmont is the adventure-base camp.”

Several students and adults will be taking part in the trip, including freshmen communication majors Zach Medovic and Shon Meade along with professors Dr. Karen Younger and Dr. James Bush.

The cost for the Philmont trip is also all-inclusive and is $500.

There are still spots open for both trips.

Interested students should contact Dr. Core in her office in Miller Hall or by email at jcore@waynesburg.edu.

“In the Army, you learn not to be weak at all. In the Army, people think if you have PTSD you're done right away; that means you're weak and you and Mandy Eddy.

Schei, who served over- can't do anything else.”

Continued from C1

seas in Afghanistan in the Army, is from the Wounded Warriors Project and flew from Houston, Texas to be at the program.

Both Steele and Boyles both work for Veterans Affairs, while Eddy is a former military spouse and a nursing student at Waynesburg.

S chei told his stor y, which started with his brother who nearly lost his life overseas in the military, and ended with his experience in a military family.

During his brother’s miraculous recovery from a gunshot wound to the head, Schei decided to join the Army as a combat engineer.

After his platoon was hit by an improvised explosive device, in which a passenger lost a leg but came away without severe physical injury, Schei developed PTSD. The PTSD nearly led to his death by several suicide attempts. After refusing to get help for his illness for fear of being ostracized by the military, Schei finally received counseling and therapy.

Now, Schei tells his story as part of the Wounded Warrior Project to raise awareness about PTSD. Eddy told her story about the changes her and her family experienced while her husband was on his two tours overseas.

Tyler Wolfe, Yellow Jacket

CHAMBERWORKS On Thursday, April 16 at noon, several of Waynesburg University's band ensembles performed at the final Chamberworks exhibition of the year.

KALEB WILLIAMS

Sophomore psychology major

She was very emotional while telling the story about her husband, who could not adjust to life at home after being overseas.

It affected the relationship between the two of them and their two children.

It then led to him becoming abusive towards Eddy, which led her to pursue a divorce.

“The importance of this entire project here was recognition for professionals or soon-to-be professionals to be able to recognize or be able to witness the individuals’ military members and family members who have gone through traumatic events related to the military,” said Brownfield.

“To be able to recognize these individuals and get them to seek the care that is available [is important].”

Brownfield thought the information provided by the panel was very valid to what the students need to know for their future professions.

“The information was very important related to this topic,” Brownfield said.

“We had two people from VA and a member of the military and a spouse collectively who were able to

bring together a decisive opinion that we need to engage the military member and their families to the appropriate resources.”

Kaleb Williams, sophomore psychology major, attended the event and believed it was influential because of the effects the military can have on families and what they go through along with the soldiers.

“It’s very important because the family member who goes to the army isn’t going to talk about it right away—or ever—if the family doesn’t act first,” Williams said. “It’s important for the family to realize that the person who went off to the military isn’t the same person when they come back.”

Williams said the topic of PTSD that was a theme brought up by the panel is vital to be discussed.

“In the Army you learn not to be weak at all,” Williams said. “In the Army, people think if you have PTSD you’re done right away; that means you’re weak and you can’t do anything else. So I think it’s important for them to realize that it is okay and that it’s not their fault and they can get help.”

this fall!

Campus

April 23, 2015

Page C3

Graduate students WU Players perform student-directed plays to be inducted into counseling honorary

By SAMANTHA PEER Op/Ed Editor

By JACOB MEYER Managing Editor

The Waynesburg University counseling graduate program will celebrate its honors society induction and graduate recognition on Friday.

Counseling Intern at Waynesburg, Laura Smith, said the honors society will be inducting twice as many graduate students Friday than in previous years with 40 students, which is about 75 percent of the students in the program.

“I would love to say, which I think is true, that we structure CSI so that the executive board is represented at each of our four campus locations,” Smith said. “So we have one student at each campus location [Main Campus, South Point, Monroeville and North Hills] on the executive board and task those people on disseminating information from the main graduate society.”

In order to be inducted in the honors society, called Chi Sigma Iota, students must go through at least one semester of graduate classes and have higher than a 3.5 GPA. According to the CSI website, “CSI is an international honor society that values academic and professional excellence in counseling. We promote a

strong professional identity through members (professional counselors, counselor educators, and students) who contribute to the realization of a healthy society by fostering wellness and human dignity.”

Smith said the mission of CSI is for students to promote scholarship, research, professionalism, leadership and advocacy as counseling students.

Smith believes graduate students being a part of CSI is a way to practice the mission in pursuit of a career.

“CSI members tr y to advocate in the local community for mental health awareness, and it offers a community for counselors to come together,” Smith said. “Once you’re in CSI, you kind of never leave CSI and you can network with other professionals in the area who are involved in CSI. It’s a way to connect younger students with professionals.”

As part of CSI, students do service projects in the greater Pittsburgh community. Smith said students in CSI have walked for the National Alliance on Mental Illness, raising $1,000. The keynote address at the Friday ceremony will be given

by Dr. JoLynn Carney, professor at Penn State. Smith See HONOR on C4

On Thursday, April 16 the theater department hosted the biannual “A Night of One Acts”.

The One Acts featured two student directed mini shows, “Who Am I This Time?” and “A Simple Twist of Fate”.

Larissa Bray, senior math major, directed the show “Who Am I This Time?” which is about a theater group putting on a play. The lead actor in the show is extremely talented, but lacks personality when it comes to real life. The actress who plays the lead female role is similar to the lead actor when it comes to personality; however, the two have great chemistry when it comes to their acting.

Renee Watts, junior elementary education major, enjoyed playing a role in “Who Am I This Time?”

“Participating in the One Acts is a blast,” said Watts.

“I get to sharpen my acting skills without committing as much time as I would in getting involved in a larger production. It’s also a good and rewarding experience to work with and under the direction of my peers. It is great to see a show come together with the sole contributions to the show coming from students.”

“A Simple Twist of Fate” was written and directed by senior business management major Olivia Long. Long’s show is about “a character in a show that’s tired of living the same story over and

Roomel Reese, Yellow Jacket

Emily Haywood and Jake Restanio perform in the One Act plays Thursday, April 16. The plays were directed by senior math major Larissa Bray. over again every time it’s performed.”

Wanting something new to experience, the character jumps out of the show and throws somebody from the real world into the show in his place. The two characters must then try and make sense of how to best survive each other’s worlds.

This is the second one act that Long has written and directed while at Waynesburg.

Long expressed that writing and directing a one act was a great way to bring her college career to a close.

“I wouldn’t have chose to end my college career another way,” said Long. “I loved my cast and how hard they worked and how much fun we all had together putting this show on stage.”

Long hopes to continue to write shows in the future.

“I hope this isn’t my last show I write,” said Long.

“I’m thinking about editing “A Simple Twist of Fate” and maybe even trying to get it published.”

Amanda Stillings, junior arts administration major, found her experience acting in “A Simple Twist of Fate” to be rewarding.

“With the end of the semester approaching, preparing for the One Acts came at a very crazy time in the semester, but seeing our efforts come together and hearing the reactions of the audience made our struggles worth it,” said Stillings.

Kelli Rodgers, junior elementary education major, greatly enjoyed watching the One Acts and was impressed

by the talent of her peers.

“Seeing the talent of the students on campus and what they are capable of producing without anyone’s help or direction was remarkable,” said Rodgers. “To see that a college student was able to write a play that captivated an audience and had a great plot was very impressive.”

Rodgers attended the One Acts to support the arts and the work of her peers.

“Participating in the One Acts and the musicals on campus in the past, I know firsthand how much work goes into a production and how much of themselves the actors give to entertain the audience,” said Rodgers. “Because of this, I always make an effort to attend shows and support the hardworking and talented actors on campus.”

Senior Stover Scholars sent off with series of guest speakers

By MITCHELL KENDRA For the Yellow Jacket

“The Stover experience: you’re not going to find it at other institutions,” said senior political science major Colin Phillips.

On April 17, what was the last Stover event for the year for some was the very last Stover event for three students. Their last day, was one of remembering.

Not only did the Stover Scholars get to hear from several significant speakers, but the day concluded with the Senior Recognition Dinner. The last event every

year – listening to significant speakers throughout the day followed by the senior dinner – is an annual event, this being the fifth year.

“The great benefit of [the day] was that it brought a spectacular year to a close with a big bang – like the grand finale of a fireworks show,” said Dr. Lawrence Stratton, Director of the Stover Center for Constitutional Studies and Moral Leadership.

The day started out as the Stover Scholars traveled to Pittsburgh to listen to different guest speakers: Bruce Kraus, Pittsburgh City

Council President and William Hernandez, Director of Black Box Corporation and Former CFO of PPG Corporation, amongst others, took time out of their day to speak to the Stover Scholars.

Hon. Thomas E. Flaherty of the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County was the keynote speaker at the banquet that recognized the seniors.

Phillips, senior English literature major Gina Robinson and senior forensic accounting major Jeremy Hinkle – along with junior communications major Nika Anschuetz, who will be grad-

uating in December – spoke to their fellow Stover Scholars during the dinner. The dinner focused on the current seniors’ last four years as Stover Scholars, and was a time of remembering all of the different opportunities they have been given.

During the dinner, Stratton briefly spoke about Phillips, Robinson, Hinkle and Anschuetz individually and his experiences with them over their time in the Stover Program.

As the seniors each had the opportunity to speak at the dinner, Phillips shared a few words of wisdom to the

returning Stover Scholars.

“The advice I gave during my senior speech was to not take the Stover program for granted and to really use the people we meet with to create or expand their networks,” said Phillips.

Not only have the Stover Scholars made relationships with the government officials and attorneys they have met, but the close connection that the students make with one another in the Stover Program is something that Stratton said improves their experience with the program.

Stratton said that this will later impact their lives.

“There was a common theme of the importance of nurturing and building strong relationships,” said Stratton. “The City Council President said that is what political success is dependent upon.”

Phillips, who is a double major in political science and history, said that because of the people he has talked with at Stover Program events, he will be attending the University of Georgia next year to get a doctorate in political science.

“We have met with lawSee STOVER on C5

Campus

Page C4

Honor: Society aims to create leaders Continued from C3

said Carney, who was the international president of CSI when the Waynesburg chapter was chartered, will speak about preventing violence and bullying in schools.

Along with the CSI induction ceremony, the counseling graduate program will also recognize the 38 second-year students who are graduating from the master’s program. “[CSI is about] sending Waynesburg counselors out into the community to begin their service back to the community and to help others with mental illness,” Smith said.

As April is counseling awareness month, Smith believes there is an unfortunate negative stigma associated with seeking help for mental health.

“The purpose of counseling awareness month is to unite counselors together to help them better serve the community,” Smith said.

“But it’s also to allow people who might be in need of services know what’s available and there are people out there who can help even if they feel stigmatized.”

April 23, 2015

Relay: Donations collected at campus-wide charity event

Continued from C1

Butler was in charge of planning the events for Relay as well as keeping the organizations and clubs on a schedule with their fundraisers and responsibilities.

Butler not only worked to finish her degree this year, but also took on responsibility of planning the Mini Relay for Life, which was a stressful but rewarding opportunity.

“I didn’t think it would affect me as much as it did,” said Butler. “But during my final Survivorship Hour I bawled. The stress and anxiety throughout the year is worth every bit of every emotion I felt on Sunday. Seeing the joy in the eyes of children and hearing the stories of survivors. It gives me a hope for tomorrow and future Relays to come.”

Butler plans to stay involved with the American Cancer Society post graduation and would like to be involved in a team at her future workplace, but for now Butler is considering staying close to Greene County with her volunteer work.

“Greene County is actually looking for an event leader for the 2016 Relay,” said Butler. “Despite moving to Pittsburgh post graduation I am considering it.”

Hardie and Butler were nervous about the rain on the day of the event, but many of the clubs and organizations remained in attendance

Abby Wernert, Yellow Jacket

(Above) DeRon Scott and James Glisan sell deep-fried oreos for the Multicultural Club at the Mini Relay for Life. (Right) Entertainment at the event included music, games and stilt walkers.

through the unfortunate weather conditions, not hindering student’s passion and dedication to fighting against cancer.

Many of the relay activities were moved inside to the Goodwin Performing Arts Center.

“I think the rain was a blessing because the Survivorship Hour was moved to the GPAC and it was a much more intimate setting and allowed all of us to really hear the survivors stories,” said Hardie. “There was no typical noise that usually surrounds

the commons; it was only the survivors and the students.

We all really appreciated this moment.”

Hardie and Butler especially thank all of the teams, participants and officers who served to make this year’s Relay such a success.

The Mini Relay for Life is just $2,000 short of reaching their targeted goal for this year’s event; there is still time to donate online or to turn in your donation to Kelley Hardie. The tentative date for next year’s Mini Relay for Life is April 17, 2016.

Housing: Students, community react to end of off-campus housing

Continued from C1

search on it,” said Hardie.

“It comes down to that we can offer a little more service on campus than someone that’s living in an apartment downtown. The four-year policy works for more colleges and universities than it did in the past and that’s why a lot more are coming on board. When we saw that we thought, ‘maybe we were a little bit behind here; let’s kind of see what it looks like.’”

With polic y changes comes displeasure.

Even though, according to Hardie, only 50 seniors on average elect to live off campus, current Waynesburg freshmen are disgruntled with the policy change.

“I think this deprives discipline from the students,” said Micah Hotz, freshman history major.

“If we have our own place, we have to teach ourselves discipline. I just think it sucks. It kind of [makes me think about transferring]. I think this is going to create more competition for Willison, and I don’t want to end up in a quad my senior year.

I like my space.”

“I feel that it is a bad decision,” said Seth Kunkle, freshman exercise science major. “Why does it matter if students are living off campus? If they are doing their school work and getting good grades, then it shouldn’t matter where they are living.”

Even if the policy impacts a small fraction of each class, the loss of those going offcampus to live affects some landlords around the borough.

“There’s not much I can say,” said Phil Armstrong, who manages rental properties at nearby Victoria Square.

“It’s going to affect my business because I house about 20 kids. We’ll just have to deal with that when it comes.”

Not all landlords will be affected, but some don’t quite understand the decision.

“I have 13 rentals and only one with college students that’s been filled since 2009,” said Heather Gilbert.

“They’ve never bothered anyone. I don’t see how a college can do that. I have a daughter that will be going to college to next year. As a parent, I’m not paying for her to live in the dorms. I’m 38-years-old, and I’m also

going to college. Say I lived an hour-and-a-half away; are they going to expect me to live on campus? I know college-aged kids that are married. Are they supposed to live in the dorms?”

After working for Greene County’s economic development sector for eight years and working with housing plans for the entire county, Hardie is assured those apartments will be filled rather quickly.

“I think those apartments will be filled,” Hardie said.

“We have a lot of available tenants that if our students move out, members of the oil and gas industry will move in.”

“Right now, yes; but I don’t know how long that’s going to last,” said Armstrong. “The frackers are about a sevenyear life, and they’re in the third year. After that, it’s not that worker intensive. I’ll have to change direction I guess. That’ll change things.”

The other biggest concern is that some freshmen say they were never told about the policy change until just a few weeks ago.

Hardie, however, said the students were notified well before they enrolled at Waynesburg.

“All of the classes [after the fall of 2014] were made aware of the policy and that’s when it took effect,” Hardie said.

“When we’re out recruiting at events and students are sending their deposits, we make that aware. It’s on the website; it’s in every tour that admissions would give.

It’s just a policy that came in this matriculating class, and it’s conveyed in many different ways.”

“I was told they wanted to implement the policy a few weeks ago,” said Kunkle. I would have definitely looked more into other schools that allowed their students to go off campus. It makes me wonder what else they are going to take away from students.”

“I didn’t know anything about it,” Hotz echoed.

Both Hotz and Kunkle also expressed concern for living in the lone upperclassman dorm that is available to male students, and how Willison Hall — in recent years — has seen a requirement for rooms to have at least three students; sometimes even four.

“It’s hard enough already to get into Willison without

all the juniors and seniors living off campus,” said Hotz.

“If they do get rid of the off campus housing, then they need to build a new upperclassman dorm. They will have no choice because they wouldn’t be able to house everyone.”

A new dormitory has been in the works for the past couple of years, following thenPresident Timothy Thyreen’s annual press conference and his vision to complete renovations to Stewart Hall before tackling another construction project on campus.

Thyreen’s idea was to erect the dorm near the maintenance building behind the Goodwin Performing Arts Center, where the university owns the entire block of houses behind the building.

“I haven’t played the numbers out in Willison to see how legitimate that claim would be, Hardie said.

“As far as I know, we haven’t had extensive discussion with new residence hall construction. I don’t think it’s been put on the backburner, but if you look at numbers, we had a really big class two years ago some medium sized classes since. We still have a lot of room for students the way we’re currently set up.

That could change with the housing policy, but I don’t think we’re going to have a need for a new building. Not

to say it’s not in the works, but we’re not at capacity.

We’re at a number we can handle right now.”

Hotz and Kunkle feel like with the policy change, students will be too sheltered and will hurt students after they graduate with the lack of “real world” experience from budgeting money, paying rent and living indecently, something Hardie really wants to address.

“I definitely think there are things we can do on campus to, maybe in programming and some other different creative ways, we can assist the students with those kinds of things,” he said. “We’ve already started thinking about that. We can do some creative programming in the residents halls for our students that will help them adjust when they graduate and move on. I wouldn’t say it’s a concern of mine. I think that proactively, we can get in front and plan around because we have a couple of years to work that; but I think, as a college students, there’s some of those things you do on a daily basis.”

With the national trend of college enrollment declining, it seems like colleges are doing anything they can to keep their income steady, or increasing.

Hardie dismissed all claims that this is a way for Waynes-

burg to drive its income up.

“I think the ultimate goal is to provide a safe, comfortable living environment for our students,” Hardie said.

“That’s kind of my mission statement. I feel like we do that more effectively when the students are on campus.

To say that it won’t bring in a financial pickup, that would

be wrong of me. When you bring 50 more students on campus, it helps financially.

But I can tell you, honestly, that’s not why the decision wasn’t made. It was made to provide more safety and comfort. Maybe the university will see a little influx of money, but that’s not why the decision was made.”

Need a sweet pick me up?

Try one of out krazy coffee’s available in 33+ flavors!

Coffee flavors are a cross between a cappacino, latte and a cafe au lait!!

Campus

April 23, 2015

Page C5

Campus to celebrate end of classes with Waynestock festivities

By MATT KOLL

Editorial Assistant

After a several year hiatus, Waynestock is making its way back to the Waynesburg University campus on Friday, April 24, starting at 4:30 p.m.

No, Waynestock does not include all of what you may be thinking it does, but this year’s event has Associate Dean of Students Pat Bristor thinking big things.

“If they want to eat, they have to come,” said Bristor jokingly. “But we are hoping for over 500 people to be there.”

The festivities will be taking place in the parking lot between Denny Hall and Roberts Chapel, as security will be clearing out the lot starting Thursday night to ensure no vehicles remain.

A picnic dinner, featuring a pig roast, will be held outside, and students on a meal plan can swipe their cards and commuters or students that do not have a meal plan will have the cost of their meals covered by Student Activities Board.

There will also be a stage for live music at the event, which will be located on the

far end of the parking lot near Burns Hall.

Human iPod Gary Johnson, who sings top 40 music and takes song requests, will be making his second trip to Waynesburg this year – performing at 5:00 p.m. – and later, local country band Ruff Creek will be onstage.

Theresa Butler worked with Bristor to coordinate this event, and both wanted it to have a country feel. So, along with country band Ruff Creek, this year’s Waynestock will feature a mechanical bull.

“We wanted to have a

country theme for this event, so we worked with a local contract agency to bring the mechanical bull in,” said Butler.

“I also thought Ruff Creek, since they are a local band country band, would tie in nicely.”

Along with the pig roast and mechanical bull, Waynestock will also provide an opportunity for some pictures with friends at an old time photo booth.

This year’s event conveniently takes place on the last day of regularly scheduled classes as well, which

will serve to celebrate yet another academic year.

“It’s a time during the last day of classes to have a good time before finals week,” said Bristor. “We noticed that as we get closer to the end of the year, too many students have more work to do in getting projects done. So, we moved our events around and pushed this to the last day of classes as an end of the year celebration.”

Bristor hopes the weather will be warm enough for this event to take place outside, and may have to make a decision on whether the event

should remain outdoors or be sent inside by Thursday night.

She will also be in contact with the musical performers to determine what temperatures they would feel comfortable playing in.

Regardless of the conditions and the venue, Bristor believes Waynestock will be a relaxing time for students before each go their separate ways for the summer.

“I hope this will be a great opportunity for the students to come together and begin to say their goodbyes before settling down for finals.”

Biology class, recycling task force proclaim ‘plastic not so fantastic’

By DANIELLE SCHUYLER Editorial Assistant

In the United States, 1,500 plastic bottles are wasted by people every second. This fact drove an Introduction to Environmental Biology lab here at Waynesburg University to make a statement in Johnson Commons on Tuesday, April 21.

“We all use plastic,” said Michelle Dunseath, digital design and public relations double major and member of the biology lab group. “There is no way to totally eliminate this concern. But students just need to be aware of the amount of plastic they are using.”

Led by Janet Paladino, associate professor of biology, these students collected bottles in their dorms, campus houses and Eberly Library for at least half of the spring semester. The class goal was to collect 1,500 plastic bottles to represent the amount Americans waste every second.

The students showed the rest of the campus how much waste that is by stringing bottles around the trees, hand rails, benches and lampposts in Johnson Commons. Starting around 8 a.m., Paladino’s environmental biology classes tied the rest of the bottles they collected in their classroom and carried the long strands towards the center of campus. Strategically positioning the tied bottles around Waynesburg University’s epicenter, this class of environmentally aware individuals began to pronounce their statement to the rest of the student body.

Abby Wernert, Yellow Jacket

On Tuesday, April 21, Dr. Janet Paladino's biology students partnered with the recycling task force to string up hundreds of plastic bottles in Johnson Commons. The event was meant to recognize how much plastic Americans waste each day.

“I was excited to see what would happen and how the event would work,” said Rebecca Shindelar, senior human services major. “I was not sure what to expect as I had never done anything quite like this before. We were hoping to educate people and get their attention with the startling facts about the use of plastics, but we also wanted the project to be fun. I think it is important to be more aware of the large amount of plastics and other items that we so easily use and dispose of without considering why we use something once and then throw it away. I learned today

from the Ecostewards that it takes bottles 450 years to biodegrade, and that is not even healthy for the earth in comparison to, say, a banana peel decomposing. If even we could just get people to stop using bottled water and use reusable water bottles instead, that would be a success in my book.”

While Tuesday was a little chilly and noticeably windy, that did not deter the students ready to share news with anyone who walked by and inquired.

“I saw a lot of my friends and they were a bit confused, asking about why there were bottles,” said Shindelar. “It

was a great point of conversation, and it was also cool to see students from the university learning about the sad truth of America’s consumption trends. I know that it was certainly not meaningful to all, though, and we still have great room for improvement in our understanding and desire to take care of the earth that God gave us.”

This environmental biology lab group grabbed the attention of not only students, but a particularly prominent Waynesburg University executive.

“The efforts clearly represent the hard work of the students,” said Waynes-

burg University’s President Douglas Lee, who ventured down to Johnson Commons, talking with Paladino and some students involved in the Earth Day celebratory efforts. “The display really shows the significant impact that plastic has on the environment.”

The recycling statement, coined “Plastic Not So Fantastic” was one of a handful of efforts presented in Johnson Commons that afternoon, including Student Services – who served icecold, freshly squeezed lemonade – and some students sharing information about wind energy.

“The university is committed to reducing its carbon footprint,” said Lee. “Stewart Hall, the Chapel and the replacement of Hanna Hall’s windows are all examples of how we are working toward being more environmentally conscious.”

At the conclusion of “Plastic Not So Fantastic,” students reflected on their time and remarked on the future of environmental biology class service projects.

“I think that I would encourage them to find more ways to make it meaningful to them, so that they are invested in the project and adding their personal knowledge and creativity to the project,” said Shindelar.

“Perhaps it would also be helpful for individuals to apply their personal expertise through their majors, and find ways to relate the project to what they are learning in their other classes.

Finding ways to take better care of our earth relates to all aspects of life and school.

I think that I would add participation from a larger group of students for Earth Week in general, but not specifically within the class that Dr. Paladino does her project with. In general, it would just be nice to see a larger group of clubs and organizations in the community getting involved with Earth Week.”

“I think plastic awareness should be a monthly thing, not just on Earth Day,” said Dunseath. “We need to take better care of the Earth. Even if we change one small habit in our lives, we can have a large impact to bettering our environment.”

GNP: Alumni present varied musical stylings Stover: Seniors discuss future career plans Continued from C1

the same people performing because the group alternates people.

Something that doesn’t happen often with artists that come to Waynesburg is that they lack a variety of musical taste. That isn’t the case with GNP. “You may not like one song on the set, but you may very well like the next,” said Molzon.

Classic rock, blue grass and jazz are just some of the musical stylings which will be played.

Junior sports broadcasting major Creg Milko will be playing trumpet with GNP. “It’s a really great experience,” said Milko. “Playing in GNP is the only thing we all have in common and it’s great to learn from them all.”

GNP has something most acts that come to Waynesburg don’t have; a recurring fan base and community support that people look forward to every year.

They only perform once a year and it brings the current students, community and alumni together for a night of reminiscing.

Along with the students participating on stage, there are students from the Department of Communication who will be running a production of the show as well.

Students will be working audio, cameras and directing the show from a television

Continued from C3

Photo Courtesy of Bill Molzon

Members of GNP hang out together before their 4th annual concert in 1974. This year's show at Waynesburg University will be their 45th annual concert. standpoint. er for this event. starting out in his spring seStudents spend the weeks “It’s a word of mouth fac- mester of 1974. prior to the show setting up tor, ” said Molzon. “Someone According to GNP’s Facethe GPAC for the show. may have come to the first book group, “Bruce loved Seven of the original show, then they told their listening to and performmembers of the band will be neighbor about it. Now ing music. He loved making performing onstage, travel- they’ve all been coming ever music with his GNP family ing from all corners of the since.” members. It might be corcountry such as Texas, FlorRecently Bruce Johnson, rect to say the biggest piece ida, New Jersey, New York one of the original members of GNP’s heart was in Bruce’s and North Carolina. of the group that first start- chest. He will be missed imAs much as the concert is ed playing at Waynesburg, mensely.” a tradition here at Waynes- passed away on April 6.

With the group only perburg, it is also a big reunion Johnson graduated from forming once a year, this for old time friends. Mol- Waynesburg College in 1977. is a show that shouldn’t be zon, Bob Christian, Scott He directed the horn section missed.

Buttfield, Tom Minson, Linc for GNP and also played the “The audience is very dedDavis, Charlie Behrend and saxophone. icated,” said Molzon. “And Jeannie Fisher are the origiOver the past 39 years, he we want to put a good show nal members who get togeth- has performed with the show on for them.”

yers, attorneys, politicians, whatever field it may be; so really I could take advice from everyone we’ve met with,” said Phillips. “Realizing a lot of people we’ve met with went to graduate school or went to law school on their path to where they are now, that really motivated me to attend graduate school.”

Stratton said that it is important for the seniors to remember their experiences with the speakers.

“It was remarkable to consider that each of the seniors have met Justices of the Supreme Court, Senators, Governors, business leaders, judicial leaders, as well as the academic program in the Stover Center,” said Stratton.

“Most importantly, it is the knowledge that they are going fourth from Waynesburg to positively transform the polis – the political sphere – which is our objective, our motto.”

Phillips believes the Stover Scholars will benefit from having these speakers on campus.

“Sure, I could’ve gone to those other schools and been with friends, but I would not have met nearly the amount of figures that I’ve met here through the Stover program,” said Phillips. “[Anschuetz]

said it the other night, ‘When you go home and tell your friends and families who you meet with through this program, they’re just in shock because someone our age, as young as us meeting those figures is unheard of in institutions around the United States.’”

Stratton said that he agrees with Phillips' remarks on how the Stover Program will put Waynesburg on the map.

“I think [the Senior Recognition Dinner] demonstrated the depth and the breadth of the Stover Program because we met with people who didn’t all agree with one another when you sit them down in a room, but they were able to share their stories with the Stover Scholars and their visions."

Anschuetz said that she is grateful for having the opportunities she has at Waynesburg and for Stratton’s influence in her life.

“I’m speechless,” said Anschuetz. “It’s been absolutely amazing. I can’t thank Dr. Stratton enough for accepting me into the program.

The Stover Program is one of the reasons that I came to Waynesburg and I haven’t regretted my decision. I’ve learned so much from our guest speakers as well as Dr. Stratton. Dr. Stratton is an incredible man of God. He encourages us to think deeply and critically.”

Op/Ed

Page C6

BEST ALL-AROUND NON-DAILY STUDENT NEWSPAPER

2003, 2004, 2013, 2014

Tenure: keep the intent, iron out the bugs NIKA ANSCHUETZ Columnist

A Student News Publication Since 1924

EDITORIAL Executive Editor Nick Farrell Managing Editors Chelsea Dicks

Kimmi Baston

Jacob Meyer Sports Editor Rob Longo Asst. Sports Editor Carson Fox Op/Ed Editor Samantha Peer Copy Editors Rebecca Burcham

Luisa Singletary Editorial Assistants Lucas Campbell

Matt Koll

Kyle Dawson

Danielle Schuyler

Yurika Blevins

Mitchell Kendra Multimedia Manager J.D. Lydic Multimedia Team Nika Anschuetz

Creg Milko Graphic Design Editor Brittany Semco Asst. Design Editor Megan Potosky Chief Photographer Abby Wernert Convergence Editor Jenny Schouppe Advertising Director Kara Bemer Asst. Advertising Director Adam Tapparo

ADVISORS Richard Krause Brandon Szuminsky Editorials in the left-hand column represent the views of the Yellow Jacket. Letters from readers, columns, cartoons and other elements on the editorial page do not necessarily reflect the position of this newspaper and university.

EDITORIALS

Enjoy now

Make sure to focus on the present It has been a constant theme throughout the past several weeks. All we need to do is get through the remaining days of the semester, and then we can begin to enjoy our lives again.

There is certainly nothing wrong with looking forward to the days off of school during summer vacation; however, we must put more focus on enjoying the present, or at the very least, making the best of it. As many of us likely have great times waiting during the summer months between beaches, parties, concerts and baseball games, we often forget to enjoy the remaining time we have at school.

Bill Watterson, cartoonist responsible for Calvin and Hobbes, once said, “We’re so busy watching out for what’s just ahead of us that we don’t take time to enjoy where we are.”While it may be difficult to imagine liking our school work, the attitude we complete it with can make all the differ-

ence in our overall happiness over the next week and a half.

We know that our work needs to be completed; we all have extremely busy schedules and everyone may seem to be in our way, but remember that the college experience only comes around once, so let’s make the best of it.

A study done by Harvard showed that humans spend about 47 percent of their time doing one thing while thinking about another. The study also found that this sort of daydreaming makes people more unhappy as opposed to when they are simply focused on one activity.

We should look to the rest of the school year with this in mind. The next week will not be enjoyable for us if our mind is off wandering about all of the cooler things that we could be doing. So, let us make an effort to be consciously aware of our surroundings as we finish the semester.

April 23, 2015

Imagine working in a large corporation. You’ve worked there really hard for the first five years. You’ve consistently excelled in all of the aspects of your job and your stellar performance leads to good yearly reviews.

Imagine after five or six years your company believes that you have earned ”immunity.” This immunity bars you from being fired from your job, regardless if your performance drops. You think: great, I can basically perform at any level and still have job security. In academia, this really frightening immunity exists; it’s called tenure.

Tenure exists to protect teachers and professors from being fired without a just cause, which in theory sounds like a great idea. It protects them from getting fired because of a disconnect between administration and a professor’s teaching style.

It also allows them to do research that will benefit the university through different

sort of grants. Tenure, in its original purpose, makes sense. However, I know there are too many poor professors that have been teaching the same courses with the same lesson plans for over 20 years. Tenure doesn’t need to be abolished, but perhaps it needs to be re-worked.

At Florida Polytechnic Institute they have gotten rid of tenure, at least in the traditional sense. They now offer faculty “fixed term, multi-year contracts that will be renewed based on performance.” They want to reward professors for good performance both in research as well as the classroom. According to InsideHigherEd, “The faculty contracts will last for one, three or five years, and will be renewed based on merit rather than on a set rule within the boundaries of tenure.”

I remember attending a visitation day for Messiah College, and they boasted that their professor tenuretrack was unique. They mentioned that every five years all of their professors get reviewed. The review serves a crucial part in determining which professors

should be rewarded for their hard work. There are plenty of hard-working professors and teachers that deserve to be rewarded for their performance; however, there are professors who have seemed to stumble upon tenure that really don’t seem to care anymore.

Tenure makes professors really good researchers, not really good teachers. According to a 2005 study published in the Journal of Higher Education, the more time college professors spend in the classroom, the less they get paid.

The study found that it was true in both larger research universities and small liberal arts colleges.

A different study performed by Northwestern University showed that non-tenure tracked lecturers seemed to cause first year students to want to study deeper about a subject than those professors who were tenured. Although, it’s important to take into account that non-tenure tracked lecturers don’t usually have as many outside obligations as tenured professors do.

Tenure is a controversial topic argued by educators,

parents and students all across the country. Unfortunately, it always seems to be the students that bear the brunt of the consequences from the systematic changes in tenure.

We fill out the SUMMAs at the end of every semester to show the university how we think a particular professor is doing. It’s important that we let the university know about professors who maybe aren’t teaching at the quality we want them to. Am I saying that all tenured professors across the board are bad? No. I simply want there to be more accountability for said tenured professors. Yes, it a lengthy process to become a tenured professor. But it’s also important that administrations know that the students know which professors are “good” and which professors you should “avoid.” Students can really learn more from good professors. We want to learn from professors who are passionate and knowledgeable about their field.

Their passion is infectious and often causes students to think critically about an issue.

Professional development essential over summer SAMANTHA PEER Columnist

For the Yellow Jacket’s faithful readers, you are accustomed to editorials and columns urging you to devote time to professional development over break.

It is a topic we stress constantly, and with good reason, as our education should not stop simply because classes are over.

In fact, because classes are over, this is the perfect opportunity to do some independent learning and spend time on things that you may not have had the time to do while consumed with home-

work and extra-curricular activities.

Before your eyes glaze over, stay with me. Professional development sounds awful. This I know. But it definitely doesn’t have to be.

Professional development can mean exploration, not the continuation of boring assignments.For example, this summer I challenge you to volunteer, shadow, “intern” and read.

Volunteer. I have heard from countless professionals whose volunteering has led them on a path to discovery of their calling or vocation.

Perhaps you are an accounting major, but when you spend some time volunteering at a summer camp, you discover your niche may

be working with children instead.

If nothing else, volunteering can be an outlet for some passions that your profession doesn’t provide.

Shadow. While many of the courses and activities offered here at WU are very hands-on, one opportunity we aren’t necessarily afforded is to spend time with professionals at their workplace, learning from what they do.

Reach out to a local professional in the line of work that you are considering and ask to spend a few hours with them one day this summer to see what life is like in their shoes.

You could fall deeper in love with your future profession or decide that it is not

your cup of tea. Either way, a valuable lesson is sure to be learned.

“Intern.” Notice the quotations.

Fortunately, I have landed a PR internship right here at WU for the summer, but last summer I worked at my local Dairy Queen.

However, this didn’t stop me from building my own unofficial internship.

As a PR student, social media is a needed skill set, so I made and managed a Facebook page for my father’s CPA business.

Writing is also a needed skill set in my major, so I started a blog to keep my See DEVELOPMENT on B3

Prepare over break

It's never too early to begin professional development There are many different opportunities that students have on campus. The Student Activities Board, theater productions and sports teams, amongst many others, are how many students spend their free time – compared to simply staying in their rooms all night watching Netflix.

But students on this campus are given more opportunities than just the extracurricular events that happen around campus; students at Waynesburg are given the opportunity that is vital to our future success: a hands-on learning experience.

The nursing majors gain hands-on experiences from things such as the SimMan simulator and the opportunity to go out into their field and gain an involvement doing what their major will

consist of.

As the university’s website states, “Waynesburg University educates students to make connections between faith, learning and serving so they might faithfully transform their communities and the world.”

If we apply what we learn both in and out of the classroom to our Christian faith, then our local communities will benefit from this.

Countless upperclassman have said that the hands-on experience they gained either improved or disproved their love of their major, and they cannot stress just how important these realizations are.

With our learning experience that we have gained at a small liberal arts college, it is truly amazing to see what our students can do.

NEWSPAPER POLICY The Yellow Jacket is the student-operated newspaper of Waynesburg University funded by student fees and advertisements and is intended for the entire college community. The Yellow Jacket is produced by the student staff on a weekly basis during the academic year. The office of the Yellow Jacket is located in room 400 of Buhl Hall. It is the right of the Yellow Jacket to print all material deemed newsworthy and gathered in a fair and unconditional manner. No advance copies of stories will be shown, and reporters' notes are considered confidential. No "off the record" information will be accepted.

ADVERTISING POLICY Anyone wishing to advertise in the Yellow Jacket should email the advertising director at jacketads@waynesburg.edu.

Ads must be submitted by the Monday before publication date and not conflict with the university mission.

Walking by Faith: Barbara Kirby Editor's Note: The following is an interview with Barbara Kirby, director for center for research and economic development and project director for the teaching with primary sources program, as part of a series of weekly conversations with members of the campus community about living out vocational faith.

By SAMANTHA PEER Op/Ed Editor

Q. When did you first come to Waynesburg and what led you here?

A. I moved to Waynesburg as a college senior in doing my internship at Catholic Charities. I really fell in love with the college town that it is, so I stayed after I graduated.

My internship was a community development internship with Catholic Charities,

so then I went on to work in community and workforce development in adult education. I started with Waynesburg University through a grant program that is now called Innovation Works and is based out of Pittsburgh.

We established a Center for Education and Technology at Waynesburg University. I worked with then-President Thyreen and Waynesburg University took the lead in providing professional development for teachers and students around technology in education.

This was in the early 90s, so you have to remember that technology in education was a brand new thing, so it was really an exciting job for me to get.

The position has evolved over time to be different things, but it has always been an amazing position.

One of my very first projects was to write a grant to get the Internet. It was a $10,000

grant and it was a fun time in which we were figuring out how the Internet would enhance education. We would have a lot of conversations as to whether the World Wide Web could sustain itself and if people could make money off of it.

To think back now and see how everything has changed in terms of education, its huge, but Waynesburg University has been there with the community the whole way through.

Q. How do you live out your faith in your position

at Waynesburg?

A. Probably the most tangible way is with the Newman club. I’ve been privileged to serve as one of the advisers for around 15 years. But I like supporting our students in learning and connecting with their faith.

It is really kind of a critical time when you talk about faith formation.

It’s pretty easy to fall away from your faith when you are in college. I think Waynesburg has a great environment See FAITH on B3

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters to the editor are encouraged as a method to bring issues of concern into the public eye. Letters should be typed, limited to 300 words, signed and include a phone number for confirmation. Letters may be submitted to 400 Buhl Hall, sent to the Yellow Jacket via campus mail or via email to jacket@waynesburg.edu. Letters may also be sent to Yellow Jacket, 400 Buhl Hall, Waynesburg University, 51 W. College St., Waynesburg, Pa. 15370. All letters must be received by 5 p.m. the Monday of any publication week.

Op/Ed

April 23, 2015

Page C7

Cheat Sheet: 2016 presidential campaign is heating up Editor's Note: The following is a synopsis of a recent topic trending in world or national news.

Its off to the races for both Democrats and Republicans alike as candidates are officially entering, testing the waters, or publically stating interest in running for President of the United States in the upcoming 2016 election.

Sen. Ted Cruz, Republican, of Texas kicked off the campaign season on March 23 declaring to an audience of college students at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, that he was running for President.

Next to officially announce was Sen. Rand Paul, Republican, of Kentucky, the son of the former congressman and presidential candidate Ron Paul. With his slogan of “Defeat the Washington Machine,” Paul entered the race on April 7 and immediately got to work on campaigning, going to events in New Hampshire and challenging Democratic leaders in Congress with policy questions as CNN explains.

According to Fox News, many pundits say Paul has both a slight advantage and

Courtesy of MCT Campus

Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) announces his candidacy for President of the United States alongside his family on Monday April 13 at the Freedom Tower in Miami. disadvantage going into the race as he will most likely carry over some of the supporters from his father’s previous campaigns for president, but Paul will still be associated with his father, who is not always viewed most favorably.

A week later, while it was highly speculated and almost presumed since President Obama won re-election in

2012, former Senator and First Lady Hillary Clinton officially announced that she would run for the Democratic nomination for President. She made her formal announcement on April 12 in a web video saying that “Everyday Americans need a champion. And I want to be that champion.”

The latest person to formally announce was Marco

Rubio, a Republican Senator from Florida who made it known he was running on April 13. Elected in 2010 as part of the Tea Party wave, Rubio has been characterized as the type of candidate Republicans need to run for higher office. He not only hails from the important swing state of Florida, but also due to the fact that he is of Cuban decent, some

Republicans think he may appeal more to the growing Hispanic population of the United States.

According to the New York Times, on the Republican side, imminent announcements are expected from former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, former Arkansas Governor

and 2008 presidential candidate Mike Huckabee, and famed retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson. Former Pennsylvania Senator and 2012 candidate Rick Santorum is also said to be considering a run, along with former Texas governor and 2012 candidate Rick Perry, current Louisiana governor Bobby Jindal, current South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham, and former HP CEO Carly Fiorina.

On the Democratic side, the New York Times also reports that former Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley, former Virginia Senator Jim Webb, and former Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee are all taking the necessary steps to explore or declare a run. Vice President Joe Biden has not made an announcement if he will run, but according to USA Today, he is in no rush to make a decision. Welcome.

The campaign for 2016 has officially begun.

-CNN -Fox News April 20, 2015 Information curated by RYAN SCHWERTFEGER For the Yellow Jacket

In the news: Ten headlines you need to know this week Editor's Note: The following is a summary of the 10 stories from last week that a college student needs to know.

1. 93-year-old Nazi faces wartime trial According to CBS News, a Nazi war trial like no other began on Tuesday in Germany. The man facing charges said he did not kill anyone, but Oskar Groening, now 93 years old, holds a dark past.

CBS said he was the accountant at the Nazi’s Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland.

During the war, he was a part of Hitler’s paramilitary organization. Groening’s job was not to decide who lived and who died, but he did confiscate their valuables. A German court will decide if he is guilty of accessory to murder.

– CBS News, April 21 2. Teva offers to buy Mylan According to the Observer-Reporter, Teva has offered to buy Mylan for about $40.1 billion in cash and stock in a deal that would create a powerhouse of generic drug development. Teva is a pharmaceutical industry. If Mylan accepts the offer, this will allow Teva to secure a more dominant position as it would be taking Mylan off a growing list of competitors.

The Observer Reporter also mentioned that Mylan, based in the Netherlands, already announced Friday – as a speculation was swirling about a possible Teva bid –

that it doubted that regulators would approve such a deal and said it is committed to its current strategy as a standalone company.

It is said the deal probably would not be approved because the businesses overlap in major ways. Teva offered to pay $82 per share, a 21 percent premium to Mylan’s closing price, on Monday, said the Observer Reporter.

Mylan’s buyout is more attractive to Teva.

– Observer Reporter, April 21 3. Reclamation of Mather coal refuse moves forward The Observer-Reporter stated that reclamation of the Mather coal refuse dump using soil from the dry lake bed of Duke Lake at Ryerson Station State Park is moving ahead well and is now about one-quarter of the way completed, a state Department of Environmental Protection spokesman said Monday.

DEP has proposed trucking about 250,000 cubic yards of soil from Ryerson to Mather, which is enough to cover the 70-acre coal waste site’s rocky surface with two to three feet of clean soil. DEP spokesman John Poister said about 77,000 cubic yards of soil have been delivered to the Mather site.

The work began in late fall

by Berner Construction Co., which was hired by DEP. The Observer Reporter said that the contract to Berner totaled $1.59 million and that DEP is also providing about $2 million to truck the soil from Ryerson to Mather. The soil

removal is being completed with the money DCNR received from Consol Energy.

– Observer Reporter, April 21

4. Man caught jumping White House fence On Monday, April 20, CBS said Jerome Hunt of Sacramento, California was charged with unlawful entry after he was arrested for trying to climb the White House fence Sunday evening. The 54-year-old man went to court at the Washington D.C. Superior Court on Monday.

Unlawful entry can lead to six months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.

According to CBS News, the judge released him under certain conditions, including a requirement that he get a mental health assessment. Sunday’s incident was the 16th time someone had tried jumping the fence at the White House in five years.

– CBS News, April 21 5. St. Louis City Hall evacuated On Tuesday, April 21, the St. Louis City Hall was evacuated after two suspicious cylinders and a bag were found at three entrances, said CBS News. There was an oxygen tank with wires coming out of it at one entrance.

Police Chief Sam Dotson said there were no known written or verbal threats, but the suspicious items were clear evidence of a threat. It is said that police checked other buildings to make sure there were no other items left.

– CBS News, April 21

6. Abortion restrictions go to state government.

According to ABC News, legislation that would place licensing restrictions on all seven of Tennessee’s abortion clinics is headed to the governor for his consideration.

ABC also said the House approved the measure 79-17 on Tuesday and the Senate passed it 28-14 last week.

Facilities or physician offices would have to be licensed as ambulatory surgical treatment centers if they give more than 50 abortions a year.

– ABC News, April 21 7. Tulsa deputy pleads not guilty A 73-year-old Oklahoma deputy who fatally shot a suspect who was pinned down by officers has pleaded not guilty to a second-degree manslaughter charge, CBS says. It is said that the deputy shot Eric Harris on April 2 after confusing his stun gun and handgun. Harris died after running from a sting operation involving gun sales.

CBS states that Harris’ family lawyer said on Monday that Bates was using an unauthorized weapon when he fired the fatal shot.

The lawyer for Harris’ family said Bates violated a number of policies, one being carrying his personal handgun after training at the range on a different weapon. Records were released and it showed that Bates trained on a .45, but the weapon he killed Har-

ris with was a .357 Smith and Wesson.

– CBS News, April 21

8. Man crosses Boston Marathon finish line after 20 hours On Tuesday morning, Apr. 21, the final runner of the 2015 Boston Marathon crossed the finish line after battling downpours and thunderstorms for the last couple miles.

According to CBS News, the 39-year-old Venezuelan athlete with muscular dystrophy overcame incredible odds and finished the marathon after walking for about 20 hours.

The runner has not let his disease get in the way of his last five marathons in which he competed. FOX25 said he races for charity and to educate and inspire Venezuelan youth. He is also a university professor and motivational speaker.

– WPXI, April 21 9. Dock to Lock 5k set for May 9 The Greene County Department of Recreation will host the 2015 Dock to Lock 5K Run/Walk along the Greene River Trail on May 9 starting at 9 a.m. Contributors can sign up for the race with a pre-registration rate of $18 by Friday, April 24, or pay a $20 registration fee the day of the race, said the Observer Reporter. The race’s registration and packet pick-up begins at 7:15 a.m. at Rices Landing fire hall, and

at 8:30 a.m. participants will be taken to the starting line by bus. There will be a reception after the race at the Rices Landing fire hall. At the reception, awards will be given to the top three male and female runners/walkers, along with the top three male and female participants in various age categories, according to the Observer Reporter.

The 5K is a fundraiser that benefits the department’s programs like the summer Day Camp program that offers free activities for county children ages 5 to 15 years old.

– Observer Reporter, April 21 10. Americ an E agle distribution center closing According to WPXI, the American Eagle Distribution Center located in the north of Pittsburgh will be closing at the end of July. Currently, 200 people work there. The company mentioned their plan to close two years back, and now it’s officially happening.

The company is giving the workers a chance to transfer to another distribution center in eastern Pennsylvania or other facilities in the company, WPXI said. The center opened back in 2007, and they are closing because more people are shopping online and the center could not be changed enough in demand.

– WPXI, April 21 Information curated by YURIKA BLEVINS For the Yellow Jacket

Faith: Kirby devoted to student growth Development: Grow this summer Continued from B2

for not letting that happen, but that’s not the same in a lot of universities.

It’s nice to watch them come in as freshman and go to church with them on the first Sunday and then watch them graduate and know that they have both grown as students and young professionals in their faith.

It’s really nothing that I have done, it’s just supporting them and helping them do all that themselves.

It’s really special, you see them come in and go out. It’s a unique blessing.

I also teach a Service Learning class, but in the past I taught computer science and introductory computer courses.

In the past I have done the service trips section of Service Learning, but this semes-

ter I am starting to do general again and it has been a good experience to work with a diverse group of students instead of just mission trips.

I’ve led SLR Mission Trip sections because I’ve been to Guatemala with students three times now.

At that time, we were just kind of figuring out how it was going to work.

Our first trip included 10 students, myself and a representative from St. Ann’s who had gone to Guatemala for many years.

Then after I left for a few years, Pat Bristor took over and she has done a really good job just rolling with the ball and really adopting the mission as her place.

Q. Have any moments, whether in interacting with students or faculty, touched you spiritually or affirmed your faith?

A. Absolutely, both in times of trouble and thanksgiving. I think that is when people feel faith the most present, in those instances.

Just this semester, two students undertook a festival of praise and a time of adoration, and they developed this worship event as their class assignment.

It was an amazing thing to watch unfold and to see the students develop the event.

They did a fantastic job and the event will most likely sustain itself after they graduate.

For someone to be able to say that they started something on campus that would continue to grow after they graduate is truly amazing.

People from St. Ann’s and students from Cal U came to the event; it got to be a community-oriented event.

It was nice to see the interaction between the St. Ann’s

community and the campus community.

Q. What do you find yourself needing to be reminded of?

A. A lot of things, but it comes down to relying on God first. Because it is easy to rely on your faith when you have worries and troubles, but to start with faith first and set the course is what I think I need to be reminded of.

Q. Do you feel you are where God needs you to be?

A. Absolutely, I feel blessed to be working with the best and the brightest, both in terms of my colleagues and the faculty and then the young adults, who are just so full of potential. Being in a work place where we can celebrate our Christianity, is a great place to be.

Continued from B2

writing skills sharp and potentially market my skills to future employers. There are tons of ways to build your own internship and/or build and strengthen skills that will be needed for your future.

Read.

Some say it doesn’t matter what you read as long as you are reading, which is true, but I am talking about more specialized reading.

I am a public relations student, and I am very much interested in helping companies give back to their local and global communities through corporate initiatives, which is called Corporate Social Responsibility.

Therefore, I plan to spend my summer reading about

what companies are doing to give back. I suggest you follow suit in terms of your respective interests. Hopefully this advice was not what you thought it was going to be or was something you have been advised of previously, as when I think of professional development, I think of polishing my LinkedIn page and resume.

These are not bad ideas, either. You never know when an opportunity for an internship or employment will present itself, so its good to be prepared with the proper credentials and the summer is a great time to clean these things up as you will have the free time to do so.

In conclusion, no matter what year you are: spend time on professional development this summer.

Campus

Page C8

April 23, 2015

THE BACK PAGE

A Tradition of

s e t a l p e Nam

Since 1924

Written by: Nick Farrell

As the Yellow Jacket closes its 90th year of publication, we went back into our archives to reprint iconic nameplates from our past in advance of the unveiling of a new nameplate in this week’s Commencement Issue.

Below is a collection of nameplates used over the 90 years of the Yellow Jacket’s circulation. Each has its own history and stories surrounding the issues it was used for. Enjoy browsing through the old designs and reading the interesting facts each one carries in its legacy.

About this nameplate: The newest addition to Waynesburg College in 1968 was Buhl Hall. As noted in the first Yellow Jacket of the 1968-69 school year, a “modern aspect” of Buhl Hall’s decor were its blackboards. Burns Hall also earned its name in 1968.

In an era before cell phones, writers also noted student gripings about a new phone system that required dimes for every three minutes of usage.

WAYNESBURG’S NEWSPAPER SINCE 1924

About this nameplate: This nameplate dates back to the first issue of the 1924 Yellow Jacket, which was originally a 36-page magazine published quarterly. The new Yellow Jacket nameplate featured in this issue was created from this design.

About this nameplate: This nameplate dates back to 1957, when a then unprecedented 768 students were enrolled at Waynesburg College. This prompted the construction of a new dormitory: Thayer Hall. In addition, the Yellow Jacket profiled “Freshman Days,” where new students were required to complete various tasks between Matriculation and Homecoming.

About this nameplate: This nameplate dates back to 1967. During the week of Sept. 29 that year, the Yellow Jacket began publishing issues weekly, instead of biweekly. The football team also began its season that year with two victories in a row, inspiring athletes and students alike. The Sept. 29 issue announced the Danford Foundation Fellowship, a prestigious award for students, and President and Mrs. Bennett M. Rich hosted a reception in their home.

WAYNESBURG COLLEGE WAYNESBURG, PA. 15370

About this nameplate: As students returned to campus in the fall of 1975, the dining hall’s new management promised to offer “different types of foreign cuisines and exotic new foods.” On a national scale, the Yellow Jacket published a story explaining that Congress appeared close to passing a bill that would authorize $10 million to educate students on the use of the metric system.

About this nameplate: This nameplate is from the Jan. 23, 1976 issue of the Yellow Jacket. In that issue, the United Presbyterian Church U.S.A. announced its new grant program, the Appalachain Scholarship Program, which Waynesburg students were invited to apply for.

Waynesburg College also announced receipt of funds from a U.S. Steel Foundation Grant.

WAYNESBURG COLLEGE WEEKLY NEWS PUBLICATION

University prepares for annual Assessment Day

Campus recounts life of successful donor

About this nameplate: This nameplate returns to Dr. W. Robert Stover’s era as a student at Waynesburg College. In the 1940s, the Yellow Jacket offered previews of its top stories each week to the left and right of this nameplate, something that’s been replicated here. The Commencement issue in 1940 offered this blurb in the nameplate: “Fifty-six seniors to receive degrees.” The issue also contained a story about an aviation class to be offered in the summer.

About this nameplate: About a decade ago, the Yellow Jacket began a tradition that will continue next week.

That’s when the Jacket published a double issue on April 29 - the first modern Commencement Issue. The paper also grew from a 12-page weekly during the 2004-05 academic year. Under this nameplate, the Yellow Jacket earned its first regional awards from the Society of Professional Journalists. In 2004, SPJ named the Yellow Jacket the top paper in the Region. In total, the Jacket has received nine SPJ awards since 2003.

Design by: Brittany Semco

SECTION D

APRIL 23, 2015 | WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY | THEYELLOWJACKET.ORG

Alligator spotted in Monongahela River yet to be found The search continues in Belle Vernon for alligator; professor of science informs locals not to worry

By CARSON FOX

Assistant Sports Editor

According to Southwest Regional Police Chief John Hartman, there has been no update in regards to the recent spotting of an alligator in the Monongahela River near Belle Vernon, Pennsylvania.

Hartman said that there have been nine reports, with two claiming to be eye witnesses – one man saw it on his boat, while another man witnessed a duck get sucked down into the river without resurfacing.

Once the reports were released, Hartman said two boats were put into the water

“I don't think the alligator in Belle Vernon poses a threat to Greene County [residents].”

JANET PALADINO

Associate Professor of Science

– one of them from the Coast Guard – but neither found anything.

The reasoning behind the

decision to release the report was due in part to reports of alligator sightings in the Monongahela and Yough-

Local businesses share struggles On your mark, after graduation get set,

By KIMMI BASTON Managing Editor

In a town of just over 4,000 people, every customer that visits the downtown shops is vital. The merchants in downtown Waynesburg realize this, and as such, they’re preparing for a summer without college students to boost their business.

5 Kidz Kandy co-owner Pansy McConnell estimates that during the fall, winter and spring months, college students make up some 50 percent of the business her store receives. Jim Winegar, co-owner of Artbeat Gallery, also said a good portion of his sales during in-school months comes from college students.

The students of Waynesburg University have developed relationships with many of the businesses in downtown Waynesburg.

Some organizations welcome students who complete service hours there, and some simply accept happily the purchases students make at their stores or businesses.

Regardless of the nature of the relationship, most of the downtown organizations agree that summer, with the absence of students, brings a definite drop in customer traffic.

“Any kind of downturn or lack of activity is something that a business person doesn’t look forward to,” said Winegar.

During the school year, Winegar and the Artbeat Gallery partner with the university for a number of events and promotions. Classes from the art department visit the gallery on a fairly regular basis, according to Winegar, to view the art and talk to the owners about techniques and methods. Winegar also puts out a newsletter that always mentions artistic events hap-

pening at the university.

In the fall, the university students will create an exhibit at the gallery with art from Italy that they will share with local high school students.

Additionally, though they don’t always buy “big ticket items,” students contribute to the gallery in the form of purchases. So, when students are gone during summer months, the gallery must find a way to make up for any loss in sales.

“We’re planning a summer open house on June 19, and certainly the Rain

iogheny rivers in 2007, as well as a sighting in 2013 in Fairmont, West Virginia, which confirmed the possibility of alligators being spotted in the region.

“The fact remains that the animal could survive in these waters at the time that we’ve found it,” said Hartman.

In regards to any rea-

sons how an alligator could have found its way into the Monongahela River, Hartman has three leads.

First, it could have been released recently by an exotic pet owner.

Second, it could have swam up on a traveling See ALLIGATOR on D4

Jenny Schouppe, Yellow Jacket

drop from a firetruck!

By JENNY SCHOUPPE Convergence Editor

The S outhwest Regional Medical Center [SRMC] hosted its eighth annual Duck Race on April 19.

The event was held at the Greene County Fairgrounds in Waynesburg, PA from 1:00-3:00 p.m.

All the proceeds from the event benefitted the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life of Greene County.

The event was filled with games, face painting, plenty of prizes and finished with the duck race.

Those who participated had the option of buying rubber ducks for $5.00 each before and at the event for the competition.

Towards the end of the event, all ducks were collected and then dumped from the bucket of a Waynesburg Volunteer Fire Department fire truck.

Prizes were then rewarded to those who ducks landed closest and then furthest to the bulls-eye.

“Any kind of downturn or lack of activity is something that a business person doesn't look forward to.”

JIM WINEGAR

Co-owner of the Artbeat Gallery

Day activities are something that we try to do something interesting and special for that,” said Winegar. “It’s all sort of gearing up for accessing additional traffic interest by doing activities that will hopefully be of interest to the public.”

5 Kidz Kandy has also begun planning events for the summer in the hopes of increasing sales that drop when college students return to their homes.

“We’re trying to do some kind of promotion every month to bring people into our store,” said McConnell.

“We have something for Mothers’ Day, Fathers’ Day and of course Rain Day.” The sweet shop has been in Waynesburg for less than a year, but already McConnell can tell the difference college students make for the busiSee BUSINESS on D4

Special Olympics hold meet and greet event

By DANIELLE SCHUYLER Editorial Assistant

Basketballs do more than just bounce. Volleyballs are meant for more than just spiking. These athletic tools, along with others, may be used to change lives.

On Saturday, April 18, Waynesburg University’s old gymnasium became a center for dreams to be reborn. After more than two years of questions, answers, hits and misses, the Special Olympics of Greene County struck gold with a meet and greet event for prospective athletes and their families, volunteers and coaches. With help from the Waynesburg University criminal justice club, led by criminal justice instructor James Tanda, some university athletes and a public relations campaign

Photo Courtesy Gracious Shaver

Future competitors in the Special Olympics take a day to meet one another along with coaches and volunteers. They also practice some of the athletics they will be competing in this coming fall. management team from the Department of Communication, the Special Olympics of Greene County executive

board was able to get the ball rolling once again. Special Olympics of Greene County caught the attention of a man

very much involved with the Special Olympics of Pennsylvania.

“I lived in Buffalo, New

York, and was looking for a chance to work in nonprofit,” said James Binz, western region field director at Special

Olympics of Pennsylvania,” said Binz. “Previously I had 10 years of experience working with Boy Scouts of America. I grew up in Pennsylvania and wanted to get back to the area. In October it will be three years since I started at my position with the Special Olympics of Pennsylvania.”

He has been in attendance at Special Olympics of Greene County board meetings and was instrumental in getting the meet and greet together.

“They have a very successful leadership team here,” said Penny Coup, senior director of local program development for Special Olympics of Pennsylvania.

Coup observed the day’s events and expressed her wishes for Special Olympics See GAMES on D4

Region

April 23, 2015

Page D2

Greene County teens unite in public library for service

'Tag You're It' program offers professional work experience for local high school students

By TAYLOR WHITE

For the Yellow Jacket

When walking into a library, the last thing you expect to here is “tag, you’re it!”

At the Eva K. Bowlby Public Library in Waynesburg, this is a common phrase.

'Tag, You’re It' is not just a common game played by children in the backyard, but it is also a teen advisory group that meets weekly at the Eva K. Bowlby Library.

Teens from all over Greene

County meet every Wednesday for about two hours to socialize with each other, plan events for the children’s department, work on community service activities and, most importantly, laugh and enjoy each other’s company.

'Tag, You’re It’s' mission is to provide a safe and fun environment where teens can socialize, learn different things, help to implement programming for teens and assist volunteering to help in the area and also to give back

“My communication skills are better. I am also more informed of things that are happening in the community.”

DESIREE TEDROW

'Tag You're It' member

to the Greene County community. Some activities the teen group has completed are decorating the Greene County library system window on High Street during national library week; repairing and implementing story time for

the children’s department; and competing in the Greene County reading competition.

They also created a centerpiece design, which won the people’s choice award at the Off The Shelf Fundraiser, which assists the libraries

of Washington, Greene and Fayette counties. The teens produce a public service announcement to bring awareness of teen dating violence in Greene County.

In addition to carrying out these community service projects, they make time for enjoyable activities like movie night, roller skating and going to Seven Springs Ski Resort. 'Tag, You’re It' is a great opportunity for teens to connect with each other and to make lasting bonds.

“Friends, this is where my friends are,” said Trista Ruffner, a frequent participant in the program. “I enjoy coming every week, and just hanging out and socializing with them.”

'Tag, You’re It' has not only impacted the ones benefiting from the various service projects, but has greatly affected the development of the teen’s leadership skills.

“My communication skills See TEENS on D3

Mine to undergo studies for future

By DANIELLE SCHUYLER Editorial Assistant

Jenny Schouppe, Yellow Jacket

BUCKIN' BULLS AT LOCAL FAIRGROUND The Greene County Fairgrounds hosted a bull riding competition this past weekend, during which many cowboys showed off their skills in front of a large crowd.

Waynesburg's Bonner scholars lead empty bowls outreach to end hunger

By BRENDAN KEANY Staff Writer

The Waynesburg Bonner Scholars are working to fight the hunger problem in Greene County.

This past Sunday marked the second annual Empty Bowls event, which took place at the fairgrounds, as the scholars looked to revive a hunger campaign that was created in 1990.

The Bonner Scholars have been working since last semester to make this awareness event a success through raising money and creating ceramic bowls to represent the hunger that still affects Greene County.

The scholarship group raised funds for the event by selling luncheon tickets at

$15 a piece.

Together, the group sold around 150 tickets, which was an encouraging sign for the leadership of the program. Senior Bonner Scholar Rebecca Shindelar described the event and everything that went into making the experience positive for everyone involved.

“We invited members of the community to partake in the luncheon,” said Shindelar.

“We also invited artisans to help in making ceramic bowls, and with the bowls that the Bonners made, we had about 250 ceramic bowls from artisans, students and high schools from the surrounding areas.”

Each person who purchased a luncheon ticket was served lunch and one of

the ceramic bowls that the different organizations took the time to make.

The bowls are not necessarily for practical purposes, but according to Shindelar, they are used as a symbol for the pressing need for food, even in Greene County.

“The ceramic bowl is a reminder of hunger in the area,” said Shindelar. “It’s an empty bowl so that we remember.”

The turnout for the event was solid, and it even included some high profile names.

As well as many community members coming out to support the event, two of the county commissioners were there to show their support, and this was seen in more ways than one.

They donated the space

for the program so that the fees for the event were taken care of.

Furthermore, the president of Waynesburg University, Doug Lee, and his wife, went to the fairgrounds to encourage the strides being taken to eliminate hunger from Greene County and surrounding areas.

However, the Empty Bowls campaign is not an official organization, but simply a fundraising program created by university students.

Therefore, all money raised by the fundraiser was donated to an organization that has the ability to fend off hunger.

The organization that the scholars chose was the Weekend Food Program.

“Basically, it’s a program

for every elementary school in Greene County,” said Shindelar.

“It’s for kids who need an extra hand; kids that teachers, social workers and other adults in the school system recognize as being food insecure. Which means they’re like stuffing food in their pockets or they’re a little antsy and what not.”

Most of these kids are already on a reduced cost lunch program, which means that they get much of their food taken care of during the school week, but the weekends can still be a time of insecurity when it comes to hunger.

“This program makes sure that these kids get food over See BOWLS on D3

Bowlby Library offers educational children's program

“Fifteen years ago, I wouldn’t expect myself to still be here today, but I really love it. The fact that I Children can be impacted am the first person who gives literacy and educaby books even before they are tional components to these children is my biggest capable of reading the words. reward from it all.”

Most young parents think

By COLE LONG

For the Yellow Jacket

that daycare is the right catalyst for them to help jumpstart their child’s education.

Another option parents have in Greene County is the Eva K. Bowlby Library Children’s Department which offers a wide variety of programs for children up to the age of six.

Eva K. Bowlby expressed a desire in her will for the library to nurture the children of Greene County.

Because of this, the Children’s Department is now what the library is most known for in the community.

Some of the programs of-

Kerry McClure Bowlby Library staff member

fered include preschool, Toddler Share and Stories under the Moon.

All programs are free and last roughly about an hour.

Involvement in the library’s programs could very well be a child’s first experience with literacy and education.

With this in mind, the workers of the department like to keep in mind the typical developmental patterns of each age.

Each week brings a different theme, but the department always features the same itinerary which includes readings, songs, snacks and crafts.

Not only does it help the children develop literacy skills, but it also assists them in developing their social skills with other young children.

As expected, some of these children in any age group, may experience separation

anxiety when having to temporarily leave the comfort of their caregivers.

“There was one girl who came in that was shy and cried,” said Kerry McClure, staff member of the children’s department.

“The more she came to the library, the more she started to settle in and become comfortable with the people and her surroundings.”

The children are not the only ones who grow from the programs, but the instructors who plant these initial educational seeds are also rewarded.

“Fifteen years ago, I wouldn’t expect myself to still be here today, but I really love it,” said McClure.

“The fact that I am the first person who gives literacy and educational compo-

nents to these children is my biggest reward from it all.”

See BOWLBY on D3

What was once a location home to a great tragedy has potential to be reborn into a place that Greene County community members may treasure for years to come.

The Mather Mine brings to memory for many county residents an explosion that caused the community to lose many brave men on May 19, 1928.

Almost 87 years later, however, the mine site may see vibrant life once again.

Langan Engineering and Environmental Services Inc. are conducting a study to determine just what may be done to make the Mather Mine site usable again.

“The first phases were completed in 2005,” said Crystal Simmons, manager of the Greene County Industrial Development Authority.

“We are looking to find with the study the level of contamination. It is also important that we find out what needs to be done to remediate the contamination.

In addition, we would like to see if the contamination levels are even manageable.

We cannot say what will be developed. It could be recreational, residential, or industrial. The results will help us to know what direction to go to develop the Mather Coal Mines.”

Simmons also expressed what the Greene County Industrial Development Authority considers to be a vital priority.

“We want residents to be satisfied with how we deal with the environmental issues,” said Simmons.

“They have been patient.

Our concerns are what the residents are concerned about.”

Earlier in the semester Waynesburg University's environmental biology classes visited the Mather Mine site.

One member of the class posed a serious question in regards to the safety of the mines.

“What if the mines collapsed? ” said Rebecca Shindelar, senior human services major. “If the coal is still burning down in the mines, how safe will it be to See MINE on D3

Region

Page D3

April 23, 2015

Waynesburg construction making strides

Bowlby:

Children, staff see benefits at library

Continued from D2

Tyler Wolfe, Yellow Jacket

An example of some of the roadwork that needs to be done in the Greene County area.

Cones like the one shown above can be seen creating lanes throughout downtown Waynesburg and leading traffic throughout all of the construction.

By ANTHONY CONN

For the Yellow Jacket

Anyone traveling through downtown Waynesburg at any given hour throughout the day has most likely seen firsthand the construction that has been taking place in town.

A simple trip to Walmart can take close to twenty-five minutes because of bottleneck traffic that greets drivers after leaving campus; or

a simple drive home from work can turn into a maze of orange and white and a headache caused by the exhaust fumes from the line of cars in front.

While this construction has been in progress for quite a while, those in Waynesburg can rest assured that the work is coming along according to plan.

Mike Simms, Waynesburg borough manager, is pleased with how the construction

has gone so far.

“The progress has been great,” said Simms.

Quite possibly the most noticeable project in town is the lane expansion work done on Route 19 by McDonald’s.

Work is being done to create more space for traffic underneath the bridge.

Simms said that that the southern end of the bridge is done, but more work is still needed on the rest of

the bridge.

Traffic has been backed up in this area during the construction, but traffic lanes have not and will continue to not be affected.

According to PennDot, this project is estimated to be completed by October 2017.

Some other projects include pavement preservation on Route 21 and several safety improvements on Route 19. The pavement work on Route 21 includes resurfac-

Bowls: Students spread awareness in community

Continued from D2

the weekend,” said Shindelar.

“They send the kids home with a backpack or a package of food with them.”

The total figures from the weekend fundraiser are not completed yet, but the last time Shindelar checked, they had raised about $2,600 for the program.

She expects that figure to climb once results from the silent auction come back.

All in all, Shindelar believes the total amount will be near the $3,000 mark. If anyone would like to get involved and continue the progress already made by the Bonner Scholars, there are several ways in which to do so.

First, the remaining bowls from the fundraiser are being sold at the Center for Service Leadership office, which is right next to the security office in the Stover building on Waynesburg University’s campus. The sales are donation based, so the bowls do not have a specific price.

Furthermore, anyone can write a check to the Community Foundation of Greene County, with the check made out to “Empty Bowls.”

The foundation accepts donations and funding year round, and they are always looking for help in that regard.

are better,” said Desiree Tedrow. “I am also more informed of things that are happening in the community.”

One of the many benefits to participating in Tag, You’re It is that every teen in Greene County between the ages of 13-18 is welcome.

There is no official registration or binding service commitment contract, making the community involvement easier and even more appealing.

Tag, You’re It is always welcoming young adults with various personalities and skills to share a similar

Mine: New future awaits Mather Coal Mine site after historic tragedy Continued from D2

Courtesy of Adrienne Tharpe

(Above) The Empty Bowls event gave students a hands-on pottery experience, where the bowls were given out to exemplify the hunger present in Greene County.

(Right) Gracious Shaver creates and designs her own bowl.

Teens: Library program enriches social lives Continued from D2

ing and implementing guiderail updates between Gwynn Road and Rolling Meadows Road.

The street paving and guardrail installation is already underway and will be completed by May 29th.

For now, those living in Waynesburg must deal with the construction at hand.

PennDot and others are working to make Waynesburg much easier to navigate in the future.

passion of learning, teaching and creating.

When asked how she would describe Tag, You’re It, Ruffner said, “it’s a wonderful atmosphere to meet teens in the community, to socialize, brainstorm and most importantly laugh with.”

Just as a library has a different variety of books, Tag, You’re It has a melting pot of young people on different pages of their stories.

Some are in their first chapter, while others are closing the first edition of their series.

Regardless of where they place their bookmarks, the teens all have one thing in common: they have been tagged as future impactful citizens of Greene County.

McClure is just as impactful in these children’s lives as any educational experience they will receive at their young age.

The children in the department absolutely adore her and it is quite noticeable when she interacts with them.

Often times there are chants from the children saying, “Miss Kerry, Miss Kerry” just trying to gain her attention.

There is no limit to how many children may participate in the programs as registration is not required.

There are no deadlines, so parents may bring their children in when the time is best for them.

The Children’s Department is always accepting of new young children to join in their learning endeavors.

As Albert Einstein once said, “Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind.”

Staff members at Eva K. Bowlby Library’s Children’s Department continue to excel in training the minds of their young patrons in a fun, friendly and engaging manner.

put recreation fields above them?”

When that question was later brought up to Simmons, she responded with assurance and positivity.

“The Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation has this project in its grasp,” said Simmons.

“I have confidence that they have done and are doing what is necessary to make sure that the Mather Coal Mines are going to be safe.”

It is no question that local community members love their athletics.

The possibility that recreational fields for sports like soccer and baseball could be built on the Mather Mine pile opens up even more chances for the community to come together.

“With success of this project there will be a 70 acrewide site that will be developable,” said Simmons.

“It will be environmentally safe, benefitting the community. The environmental concern would be eliminated.”

Students expressed how important it is that efforts are being made to make the Mather Mine site safe and useful.

“What happened at the Mather Mines on that day in 1928 was tragic,” said

“I have confidence that they have done and are doing what is necessary to make sure that the Mather Coal Mines are going to be safe.”

CRYSTAL SIMMONS

Greene County Industrial Development Authory Manager

Michelle Dunseath, senior digital design and public relations double major.

“The Greene County Industrial Developmental Authority is doing a lot to create new and positive memories with the mining site. This will help not only the people that could use the sites, but the county as a whole. New life on the Mather Coal Mine site will bring even more positive morale to the area.”

Region

Page D4

April 23, 2015

Pennsylvania ground is ready for planting and gardening

By CHELSEA DICKS Managing Editor

Everyone has heard the cliché phrase ‘April showers bring May flowers.’

During this time of year, we hear it a lot more.

This is because in Pennsylvania, now is the time to start planting.

Here are some tips and facts about gardening in Pennsylvania: 1. According to the Men’s Gardening Club in Pittsburgh, the last hard frost average for Pittsburgh is around April 20. For outlying areas, the last hard frost is averaged around April 30.

2. Now is the time to start weeding. As it may be a couple days early to actually start planting, you can get a head start on the garden by taking care of all the weeds

right now. The ground in the area should be soft enough that a hoe or small hand spade should be able to do the job if your hands have trouble, according to the calendar for Pennsylvania Gardening.

3. Technically, according to the calendar, people living in this area should have started mulching back in March, but if this step has yet to be taken, now is the time to start. Make sure to remember where your perennials or fruit trees were planted to make sure those areas receive the fertilizer and mulch that they need.

4. If you are interested in planting roses, herbs or perennial flowers, April is the best month to do it. If you are planting a vegetable garden, you can start planting carrots, beets and other

rooted vegetables, according to the calendar.

5. There are a lot of seeds that take much longer seasons to grow than Pennsylvania has to offer. But there is an easy solution. Start to sow your seeds within your house and place them near a window. According to thompson-morgan.com, this will help plants such as geraniums and begonias get to their peak along with the rest of your plants within your garden.

6. Another tip from thompson-morgan.com is to get rid of the bugs and pests from the ground in your garden.

“Hunting down and removing hibernating pests now can save a lot of trouble,” said the website.

Due to the ground being cold, some bugs will still

be in hibernation, making them easier to catch and remove.

7. The lawn that you choose to place your garden within is important too and can be taken care of now. The ground in this area is covered in leaves and debris at this time. To get a head start on the lawn, rake the leaves and debris off the ground. Make sure to seed the lawn designated for the garden area so the ground is ready to produce the plants you will later plant.

No matter what kind of garden you are planning to plant – vegetable, shrubs or flowers – April is not too early to begin working on your outdoor oasis.

So have fun planting a garden that you know will thrive and earn that ‘greene’ thumb.

PLANTS THAT GIVE YOU

"BANG FOR YOUR BUCK" 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Lavender- $6-$10 Annuals: Snapdragon- $6 Annuals: Cleome- $1 - $4 Annuals: Caladium- from $8 Perennials: Black-Eyed Susan- from $8 6. Perennials: Maiden Grass- $9 - $12 7. Perennials: Daylily- from $4 8. Shrubs: Yaupon Holly- $12 - $30 9. Shrubs: Spiraea- $7 - $40 10. Shrubs: Clethra- $10 - $25 11. Trees: Sourwood- $15 - $75 12. Trees: Apple- $10 - $20 13. Trees: Swamp White Oak- $25

Gracious Shavers

Tori Kramer with a Special Olympic athlete.

Games: Olympics hope to attract many athletes Continued from D1

of Greene County.

“There was a good turnout today. I am really hoping that a team of athletes will be in place by the fall season.”

The Special Olympics of Greene County team manager echoed this sentiment.

“There was an incredible response from potential athletes,” said Randi Chambers, who is also a mother of one of the athletes. “I looked for a program like this 12 years ago. Greene County used to compete in bowling.”

Chambers explained that when the local bowling alley was put out of commission, they had to stop competing.

In S e pt e mb e r 2 0 1 4 , Chambers was approached

by Waynesburg University education major Brianna Watt, who wanted to know if Chambers was interested in getting involved with Special Olympics of Greene County.

As a Waynesburg University alumna with a master’s degree in counseling, bachelor’s degree in psychology and pre-law and a minor in sociology, Chambers was enthusiastic to hear from a student at her alma mater.

Understanding the university's mission of service, she exclaimed how perfect of an opportunity it would be for students to work with the organization.

“It is very hands-on,” said Chambers. “Also, the organization is close so students do not have to worry about

commuting. A big thing is that volunteers do not need to fundraise to participate.

Going on mission’s trips is very popular at Waynesburg University and it is a very good way to serve people.

However, you can also serve right in your own town.”

Coup explained how getting involved would not only fulfill service requirements but could build the student volunteer’s resume.

“The Special Olympics has great name recognition worldwide,” said Coup. “Involvement with this organization helps the athletes and the volunteers alike. Greene County is one of two counties in Pennsylvania that does not have a currently working Special Olympics program. It needs people with a passion for helping other people to become leaders. Even if you are just remotely considering getting involved, go to an event in a nearby county. You will not regret it.”

Binz added that the Waynesburg University community held a major influence on the outcome of Saturday’s meet and greet.

“The momentum came from Waynesburg University and its people choosing to get involved.”

Looking toward the future, Binz has high hopes for Special Olympics of Greene County.

“I believe the Greene County Special Olympics will have national and world level athletes five years from now,” said Binz.

Roomel Reese, Yellow Jacket

PLANTS MAKING THEIR DEBUT

Take a walk through downtown Waynesburg and next to the roads will be sprouts of colors. Local yards and flower beds have started to show the signs of life that spring awakens. Colorful tulips and daylilys are common species that can be seen in the wild and within planted gardens during this time of year. With spring finally here, the grass has become much greener and yards are filled with more color.

Alligator: Officers continue search in local river Continued from D1

barge from the south along the Mississippi River.

Third, the Pittsburgh Zoo was called and according to Hartman, has been extremely helpful in the case that a transported alligator never made it to its destination.

Besides Southwest Regional Police, the Fishing Boat Commission, the Pittsburgh Zoo and the Coast Guard have all aided in the attempt to find the alligator.

This comes as a concern to Hartman as civilians ap-

proach the summer months on the Monongahela.

“As the weather warms, that increases traffic, especially recreational traffic on the river,” said Hartman. “As a police force, I felt it was our responsibility to make notification.”

Waynesburg University Associate Professor of Biology and instructor of Environmental Science Janet Paladino, believes that this alligator could not have paddled upstream from Southeastern United States rivers or coastlands, but rather someone dropped it off be-

cause he or she did not want to care for it anymore.

Additionally she said that alligators are more likely to stay in one area instead of traveling, but they have been reported as swimming upwards of 20 miles.

“I don’t think that the alligator in Belle Vernon poses a threat to Greene County [residents],” said Paladino.

Though, she does note that the American alligator can survive subfreezing temperatures because of its ability to slow its metabolic rate and become dormant.

“I am not sure that it

would survive the water temperature in Southwestern Pennsylvania, but they are pretty tolerant to cold,” said Paladino.

With there being only one alligator reported, unless said alligator was pregnant during the time of its release, this may be an isolated, random occurrence, rather than an invasive species infestation.

Officers suspect it to be a one time occurence.

Hartman advises anyone with information or anyone who sees suspicious, alligator-like activity to call their local police force.

Business: Local stores prepare for summer loss

Continued from D1

ness by purchasing coffee, ice cream and candy.

Together with nearly 15 businesses, 5 Kidz Kandy has become part of the Downtown Waynesburg Merchants’ Guild, to which the Artbeat Gallery also belongs.

Winegar said the group collaborates regularly to or-

ganize events for the community and keep awareness up for the various smaller businesses.

In the end, downtown Waynesburg businesses believe they’ll make it through the summer. They deal each year with the departure of college students, and while it often hits their business hard, with a little planning, they can make up the difference.

Store Hours:

Monday-Friday: 9 am to 8 pm Saturday: 9 am to 4 pm Sunday - Closed

595 East High St., Waynesburg, PA 15370 724-627-5454 or 724-627-6823 Fax: 724-627-5429 www.mccrackenrx.com

McCracken Pharmacy since 1961

SECTION E

APRIL 23, 2015 | WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY | WWW.THEYELLOWJACKET.ORG

Baseball picks up season sweep of Westminster with 5-4 win

By KYLE DAWSON

Editorial Assistant

After Tuesday’s home win against the Westminster Titans by a score of 5-4, the Waynesburg baseball team swept its second series in Presidents’ Athletic Conference play this season.

Before that, the team won its series against Bethany this past weekend by winning twice in Bethany, West Virginia, after losing the home game Friday.

With the two series wins, the Jackets still have not lost a series in PAC action and continued what has been a string of success since a tie against Pitt-Greensburg a while back.

“As we enter every series in our conference our intention is to win the series,” said head coach Mike Humiston. “I think the guys have bought into the ‘win the series’ mentality. So we went into Saturday’s doubleheader with that mentality after the

Dave Miller, ADM Photography

Cameron Bernhardt, seen here in a game earlier this year, drove in a pair of runs and went 3-for-4 Tuesday. loss Friday and were able to come out with two wins.”

Having already won the series with a doubleheader sweep of the Westminster Titans back on April 14, the Jackets weren’t looking to enact that win the series mentality. They were looking

Bachman finishes top 10 in ORLC in scoring ize Waynesburg opponents with her lethal scoring ability.

The women’s lacrosse “The game itself is played program, started a mere at a faster pace,” noted seven years ago, is still Bachman, on the transiconsidered to be up-and- tion from high school to coming. college. “My high school However, an 11-62 re- team was short on defendcord coming into this sea- ers. I wanted to be a good son doesn’t scream success player all-around player, so to the potential recruits that I liked being able to get the step foot on the southwest- opportunity to play both ern Pennsylvania campus. positions. When I got to But on sophomore Holly Waynesburg, I was immeBachman’s visit, she didn’t diately put on attack, and look at that. She was all too have loved it ever since.” familiar to youthful proIn B a ch man’s f re sh grams. Bachman, a gradu- men campaign, she tallied ate of Knoch High School 22 goals, which was good in Butler, Pennfor s e c on d on sylvania, took up the team behind lacrosse for the then-senior Vicfirst time during toria Shepherd. her ninth-grade Those tallies were year with a proalso accompanied g r am t hat w as by five helpers. only four years in However, afthe making. ter it was recog“ It w a s s t i l l nize d t hat she pretty new,” said was Waynesburg’s Bachman Bachman. “They main offensive were still in the building threat, teams were bound process, trying to attract to handle her differently on girls to play and expand the defense. sport within the area.”

“A lot of teams know However, the allegiance going into the game who that was formed in her to watch out for just from freshman year resulted in statistics and film,” said having the most wins in Bachman. “It’s a complischool history, allowing ment that other teams are the Knights to make their putting their best defender first ever WPIAL playoff on you or are constantly appearance. double teaming you. But it But what Bachman didn’t makes me want to work that know at that time was that much harder.” she would be a part of She erased all doubt of something similar nearly any sophomore slump with three years later.

11 goals in her first three After a position change games to open up the seafrom defense to forward son. coming out of high school, she has continued to terrorSee BACHMAN on E2

By LUKE CAMPBELL

Sports Editorial Assistant

to break out the brooms and finish the job.

Waynesburg did just that behind key offensive performances by sophomores Ben Miller, Jonathon Kletzli and Cameron Bernhardt, as well as junior Matt Bensinger.

But the story of Tues-

day’s game aside from what turned out to be a comefrom-behind win, was the first collegiate start of a freshman well known for pitching in Greene County, Brandon Lawless.

The Carmichaels native was “the guy” on a team that went all the way to the PIAA Tournament last season.

On Tuesday, he pitched six scoreless innings, before the wheels fell off in the seventh inning for Waynesburg’s defense, in a situation that saw Lawless chased from the contest. Lawless’ final line on the hill included six innings and change, four runs, none of which were earned, off a mere two hits. The freshman walked five and struck out four. “[Lawless] had to make an adjustment,” said assistant coach Scott Van Sickle, who served as the skipper for the Mighty Mikes while Lawless was there. “He’s worked very hard to get to the point where he could start for us

this year, because he’s never had to do that, because he’s been the man. College baseball is a big difference and he showed he could go out there and throw all his pitches.”

“I just went out today like I did in high school and tried to pitch well,” said Lawless.

“I’ve been working on some things mechanically with Pete [Stofcheck, an assistant coach with the Jackets]. But these kids can hit a lot better than what I’m used to, so I’m just working hard.”

The reason Lawless came out of the game wasn’t exactly his fault. Three defensive errors by Bernhardt allowed runners on base, and Lawless hit his spots on the mound; he just wasn’t able to get an out. Junior ace Brian Resnik came in to clean things up and ended up earning his seventh win on the season.

If Bernhardt could have made up for those errors in any way, he certainly did at the plate. In his first at-bat,

the Connellsville, Pennsylvania native got a first-pitch fastball and hit his second home run of the season to put the Jackets ahead 1-0.

“I went up to the plate saying to myself ‘if I get a firstpitch fastball and it’s a strike, I’m going to hit it,’” said Bernhardt. “Sure enough, I got it, and I just swung as hard as I could, and it went out.”

A batter later, Miller launched his third homer of the season to put the Jackets ahead 2-0. A few innings later, a double play ball scored Waynesburg’s third run. Then after the four runs came across for Westminster in the seventh, Waynesburg found itself behind 4-3 in the eighth with two outs.

Bensinger doubled for his second two-base hit of the day and then scored on Kletzli’s single to right field.

Senior Kyle Weyand came in to run for Kletzli, stole second base and then scored on See BASEBALL on E2

Lacrosse wins on wild last-second goal

Jackets end season on high note

By JEFF CHAMP

For the Yellow Jacket

The Waynesburg women’s lacrosse team finished its record-setting year with a thrilling 9-8 win against the Franklin College Grizzlies thanks to a last second goal from a first-year player.

Junior Lauren Blair, who joined the team after finishing her third year as a member of the women’s basketball team, was the hero for Waynesburg and allowed the team to set a single-season program record for wins (five).

Blair had possession in the offensive zone in the waning seconds and the whistle blew.

The refs called an illegal block on Franklin, which set up a potential game-winning free position shot for Blair with one second remaining on the clock.

The Ohio native came through with the gamew inning shot, b est ing sophomore goalie Kayanna Wolter to clinch the victory for Waynesburg. Known for being a team player both on the field and the court, Blair was quick to commend her teammates.

“It felt great to end the season with a win,” said Blair.

“Honestly, I think this was a team effort.”

Head coach Maria Shepas acknowledged the effort Blair has given to the team during her first year as a Jacket lacrosse player.

Rob Longo, Yellow Jacket

Waynesburg's Jess Rains (right), pictured here in a game earlier this season, had a game-high three goals in Saturday's 9-8 win over Franklin College.

“Blair is an athlete”, said Shepas. “She’s a fighter, she wills things to happen and that is a testament to her work ethic.”

With the win, the Yellow Jackets finished with a 5-9 overall record and 3-6 in Ohio River Lacrosse Conference action. Previously, the highest win total for the program was three wins, which was set last season.

Women’s lacrosse became a varsity sport at Waynesburg University in 2008, spanning eight seasons.

“It’s awesome what we accomplished,” said Shepas.

The 2015 season was the inaugural one for the ORLC, and Franklin College head women’s lacrosse coach Stephanie Eft sees a bright future ahead for all of the teams that are a part of the conference.

“I think, in the future, this conference is going to be competitive,” said Eft. Waynesburg was led on offense by sophomore midfielder Jess Rains, who accounted for three of the goals, but it was the two timely goals by Blair that stole the show for the Jackets.

The score at halftime was 4-4, and shortly after the second half started, the game was delayed due to lightning in the area.

After a half hour delay, the teams returned to the field and play resumed. After play resumed, Blair found the back of the net rather quickly to break the tie. The teams would then battle back and forth for the majority of the second half, before Blair’s game-winner.

The 2015 season might be over, but the future of

the women’s lacrosse team is looking rather bright.

Two of the top-three players in points on the team just completed their respective sophomore seasons. Those players include sophomore forward Holly Bachman and Rains.

Waynesburg will be graduating five seniors this year, but the team appears to be in good hands for the upcoming years, according to Blair.

“I think the program is going up,” said Blair. “It has been going up for the past few years.”

Shepas challenged the team, as it now looks ahead to 2016, after failing to qualify for the ORLC’s first Championship Tournament.

“They can only go up if they want it,” said Shepas.

“It’s all going to be about commitment and effort.”

All in all, it's been a roller coaster ride at Waynesburg ROB LONGO Sports Editor

Maybe I came to Waynesburg for the wrong reasons.

Maybe I came to this school, some 71 miles away from my hometown of Beaver, Pennsylvania, because I thought it would whisk me away from the proclaimed “Beaver Bubble,” which would never let you go once inside, keeping you there forever. Or maybe it was the pressure of others, along with

my high aspirations, of continuing my football career after high school. I’m not really sure what it was, to be honest.

But what I can tell you is, four years later, not much shaped out the way I thought – or hoped – it would.

In all honesty, I suppose the whole reason why I did choose to attend a small, Christian school in the heart of Greene County was a man who many people saw on their living room televisions and listened to on their back porch radios for over three decades calling Pittsburgh

Pirates baseball – Lanny Frattare.

I’ve always loved sports.

Since the day I was old enough to play organized sports, I was there. Basketball, football in middle school, soccer and especially baseball – a game I fell in love with at a very young age.

I’m not sure why I became obsessed with baseball. I didn’t spend very much time with my father growing up, and maybe it was the fact that the only time we really spent together involved the quirky sport. Whether he was coaching me, playing

catch together or heading to Pittsburgh on Sunday afternoons to catch a couple innings at Three Rivers Stadium, then heading to McDonald’s on the way home to split a 20-piece McNugget, it was always about baseball.

Baseball was something his father instilled in him at a young age as well. Either way, the sport connected with me.

The lure to learn from a man that spent 33 seasons behind a microphone broadcasting Major League Baseball drew me in right away. Just like many others my age and even older,

Lanny was a second father to them, a babysitter, a friend that they would spend a few hours with on warm summer nights.

With that said, I had an epiphany. Long story short, why waste what some say is the best four years of your life doing something that, in the long run, will destroy your body, when you can work just as hard to better yourself career-wise after college?

To me, the choice was a nobrainer. Regardless, some did frown upon that decision.

Looking back on it, it was the best decision I’ve ever

made. I was able to accomplish everything I wanted to at Waynesburg, and then some. Four years ago, I would have rolled my eyes and laughed if someone told me that I would be in the position I am now. Covering a Division I basketball game as a freelance journalist and broadcasting one as a freelancer before the age of 21 is something I feel that very few can say.

In the eight semesters that I have written for this newspaper and the seven that I See LONGO on E3

Sports

Page E2

April 23, 2015

Men's track looks to surprise at PAC's Golf teams ready for

By ZACK ZEIGLER

Editorial Assistant

With spring in the air, the Waynesburg University men’s track team, looks to turn a couple of heads at the event that it has been waiting for – the arrival of the Presidents’ Athletic Conference Outdoor Championships.

For the rather youthful men’s squad, including upstart first-year sprinter Mark Minjock, it is a chance to go out and show what they can do on the conference’s biggest stage.

“It’s a good feeling to be competing here,” said Minjock. “I am determined to do the best I can to score points for the team.”

For some of the veterans on the team, it will be one of the last time they take to the track with their Jacket

teammates.

“It has slowly been eating at me more and more as the season progressed,” said senior thrower Travis Schubert. “I’m sure it’s going to be an emotional day when I have to throw my last implement.”

This past week, the Jackets competed in the PAC South Quad Tournament, in which they took first place, beating out three of their PAC rivals: Bethany, Saint Vincent, and Washington & Jefferson.

This event, along with a lot of hard work, has prepared the Jackets for the big event, according to Minjock and Schubert.

“I feel that the whole season has helped us prepare for this meet,” said Minjock. “We are all coming into place and have worked our way to get to the point we are at now.”

“Its always a good feeling to get a victory in anything you do,” said Schubert.

“However, we went about it with more intensity at practice. We had a bunch of great performances [at Bethany] and we hope to take the momentum we have and get the same results in the PAC Championships.”

In the last few PAC Championships, the Yellow Jackets have come close to winning it all, but fell just short. In the last three seasons, they have come in third, second and fourth place, respectively.

Seniors like Schubert are looking to finally get over the hump and bring home a first place trophy for Waynesburg University.

“I can say from being around the throwers that we seemed to be more disciplined and focused,” said

Schubert. “The team, as a whole, has been putting in crazy amounts of work and practice, which is how you get the positive results we want in the end.”

The Jackets will look to its senior leaders to help guide them through the Outdoor Championships and achieve the goals that were set at the beginning of the season.

The PAC Championship tournament starts this Friday and runs through Saturday.

It will feature all nine of the PAC teams competing for the top spot and all the glory.

Last season, Grove City was able to take the PAC Outdoor Championships; however, the Jackets had some standouts on the field.

Then-junior hurdler Byrum Louco took home the See TRACK on E4

Bachman: Sophomore finds scoring touch at WU Continued from E1

The only time she has failed to score in the team’s 14 contests this year was on March 24, where the team could only muster three shots in the 21-1 trouncing.

Bachman’s 42 goals on the season easily lead the team and are good for seventh in the Ohio River Lacrosse Conference, but most importantly, shredded the record at Waynesburg, which was previously held

by Shepherd with 35.

Those 42 goals also exceeded more than the entire team in three of the six years prior to Bachman becoming a Yellow Jacket.

“I just want to be someone that the team can look up to, count on and respect,” she said. “This is so rewarding to me because it’s a way for me to know that all my hard work and drive is worth it. I want to be the best I can be -- not just for myself, but for the team.”

Bachman, along with the rest of the junior and sophomore-heavy squad, is

Rob Longo, Yellow Jacket

Bachman, pictured here in a game earlier this season, led the team in goals with 42, which was good for seventh in the Ohio River Lacrosse Conference. looking to change that mold from a “new” team to that of a “competitive” team.

With the most wins in school histor y coming this year at five, Bachman knows that this team has the ability to continue to improve.

“Continuing to recruit is the biggest thing,” said

Bachman. “We need to be getting girls with more experience so that when they are coming in, they already have passing, catching, cradling and the concepts of the game down.”

She notes that stick skills and handling are something what the team lacks due to the inexperience of a ma-

jority of the team.

However, she said that their hard work and willingness to learn has exceeded any faults that the team has.

“I love our team,” she said. “Everyone has their own personality and interests, but we all have the love of the sport in common.”

spring championships

By CHELSEY WITHERS For the Yellow Jacket

After an upsetting fall season, the Waynesburg University golf program looks to have more success this spring at the Presidents’ Athletic Conference Championships, which will be held this weekend in Belle Vernon, Pennsylvania.

During the fall, senior Tyler Tracey led the team, but he will not be participating in the Championships this weekend. Therefore, the team will look to others for leadership.

“Without our best golfer being there, I still believe we have three golfers that can pull in good scores,” said head coach Sam Jones. “Jacob Fleegle, Josh Henning, and Tyler Miller – these guys have all pulled in good rounds, and I am looking forward to seeing their scores.”

The men’s side was fortunate to sneak in two competitions this past week.

Members of the team were able get to out and practice on their new home course, South Pointe in Washington County, as well as participate in a tournament on Monday.

“Even though it was a short amount of time, we have had a pretty decent, intense preparation in the last couple of weeks leading up to

the PAC’s,” said Jones.

This past fall, the men finished in last place at the PAC Fall Championships, but hope to continue to improve that score this spring.

The women finished just like the men, falling in last place (seventh) in the fall.

The women will be participating this weekend, along with the men at the PAC Championships. The team is compiled of six members, three of which are seniors.

The team is led by senior Kelly Mehal, who has been a part of the team for the last three seasons. However, Mehal has had touble getting in swings with golf sticks, which have been replaced recently with another stick.

“I haven’t been able to get out on the course too much recently, but I hope to get a few practice rounds in before Friday,” said Mehal. “I have had lacrosse practices and work that have interfered with getting out to play. I look forward to getting out and playing. It’s one of my favorite sports to play, and I hope to finish my college athletic career with success.”

Unlike the men’s team, the women’s team hasn’t been as successful in getting out onto the links, but despite the lack of practice, the women’s team looks to be successful this weekend, just as the men’s team does.

Baseball: Jackets rattle off three-straight wins Continued from E1

Bernhardt’s base hit to left field.

“I was not going to let the guys down,” said Bernhardt.

“I made those errors in the seventh inning, and I wanted the chance to get us a run back. I got it and just tried to get the job done.”

The Jackets were scheduled to battle with Pitt-

Greensburg today in a doubleheader, weather permitting. The Jackets will return to action this weekend in a series against 1-79 rival Washington & Jefferson.

First pitch for Friday’s nine-inning contest is scheduled for 4 p.m., weather permitting. Then, the two teams square off Saturday in a doubleheader on the road. First pitch for Saturday's doubleheader is slated for 1 p.m.

PRESIDENTS’ ATHLETIC CONFERENCE ROUNDUP SOFTBALL

BASEBALL STANDINGS Thomas More Waynesburg Thiel W&J Saint Vincent Westminster Grove City Geneva Bethany

Conf.

14-3 13-4 12-5 10-7 8-9 9-11 6-12 4-12 2-15

Overall 22-7 15-13-1 23-8 18-10 16-15 15-19 10-18 10-18 6-21

Saturday’s Box Score

WAYNESBURG 10, GENEVA 0 Waynesburg 1 1 4 1 0 2 0 0 9 Bethany 0 0 2 5 0 0 1 x 8 WP: Meyer LP: Hoffman S: N/A Top Performers Batting

1. Ben Shorthouse 2. Johnathan Kletzli 3. Matt Bensinger Pitching

3-4, 3 RBI, 2R 3-4, 2 R, 2 RBI 3-5, 2 R

Luke Carter.......................3 in, 5 H, 6 R, 6 ER, 2 BB, 0 K Jacob Meyer.....................4 in, 6 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 0 BB, 1 K

RECENT RESULTS

Friday, April 17 Bethany 10, Waynesburg 9; Saint Vincent 7, Geneva 6 (10 inn); Westminster 14, Grove City 5; Thiel 11 Penn State Behrend 4 Saturday, April 18 Waynesburg 4, Bethany 2; Waynesburg 9, Bethany 8; Sain Vincent 13, Geneva 1; Saint Vincent 16, Geneva 4; Westminster 9, Grove City 3; Grove City 17, Westminster 10; Thomas More 4, Wash & Jeff 3; Thomas More 1, Wash & Jeff 0; Thomas More 5, Wash & Jeff 4 Sunday, April 19 Saint Vincent 8, Penn State Altoona 7 (8 inn); Saint Vincent 16, Penn State Altoona 10

UPCOMING GAMES

Friday, April 24 Bethany at Thiel - 1 p.m.; Westminster ta Geneva - 4 :30 p.m.; Wash & Jeff at Waynesburg - 4 :30 p.m.

Saturday, April 25 Thiel at Bethany DH - 1 p.m.; Geneva at Westminster DH - 1 p.m.; Grove City at Penn State Behrend DH - 1 p.m.; Saint Vincent at Thomas More DH - 1 p.m.; Waynesburg at Wash & Jeff DH - 1 p.m.

Sunday, April 26 Saint Vincent at Thomas More - 12 p.m.; Wash & Jeff at La Roche DH - 1 p.m.

STANDINGS Saint Vincent W&J Thomas More Westminster Bethany Geneva Grove City Thiel Waynesburg Chatham

MEN’S TENNIS Conf.

10-4 10-4 10-4 9-5 7-5 8-6 6-6 5-9 3-11 0-14

Overall 22-6 17-9 20-14 19-11 16-14 18-16 14-9 12-16 9-25 3-19

Saturday’s Box Score

SAINT VINCENT 2, WAYNESBURG 1 Waynesburg 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 Saint Vincent 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 2 WP: Grimes LP: Flynn S: N/A Top Performers Batting

1. Theresa Soknich 2. Cameron Grimes 3. Katty Potopenko

2-3, 1 RBI 1-2, 1 R 1-3

Pitching Lyndi Gareis.........................6in, 8 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 2 BB, 2 K Cameron Grimes..............0.2 in, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 0 K

RECENT RESULTS

Friday, April 17 Geneva 2, Grove City 1; Anderson 5, Thomas More 3; Thomas More 2, Anderson 1; Pitt-Greensburg 4, Waynesburg 2; Pitt-Greensburg 6, Waynesburg 2 Saturday, April 18 Thomas More 6, Bethany 0; Bethany 6, Thomas More 4; Geneva 9, Chatham 0 (6 inn); Geneva 10, Chatham 1 (5 inn); Grove City 5, Westminster 4; Grove City 4, Westminster 0; Saint Vincent 2, Waynesburg 0; Saint Vincent 2, Waynesburg 1; Wash & Jeff 9, Thiel 1 (5 inn); Wash & Jeff 1, Thiel 0 Sunday, April 19 Bethany 11, Franciscan 3 (5 inn); Bethany 21, Franciscan 3 (5 inn); Case Wester Reserve 9, Thiel 1 (5 inn); Case Western Reserve 15, Thiel 7 (6 inn)

UPCOMING GAMES

Thursday, April 23 Bethany at Grove City DH - 3:30 p.m.; Wash & Jeff at Muskingum DH - 3 :30 p.m.; Penn State Beaver at Thiel DH - 4 p.m.

Friday, April24 Thomas More at Anderson DH - 3:30 p.m.; Geneva at Grove City - 5 p.m.

PAC PLAYERS OF THE WEEK

Saturday, April 25 Wash & Jeff at Bethany DH - 1 p.m.; Waynesburg at Chatham DH - 1 p.m.; Westminster at Geneva DH - 1 p.m.; Thiel at Grove City DH - 1 p.m.; Thomas More at Saint Vincent DH - 1 p.m.

PAC BASEBALL LEADERS

PAC PLAYERS OF THE WEEK

Hitter: BenShorthouse, Senior, Waynesburg Pitcher: Brian Resnik, Junior, Waynesburg Batting Average: Pogue, .465, TMC; Kilkeary, .462, SVC; Malone, .459, SVC

STANDINGS Grove City W&J Waynesburg Thomas More Saint Vincent Westminster Bethany Thiel

Conf.

7-0 6-1 5-2 4-3 2-4 2-4 1-6 0-7

MEN’S/WOMEN’S OUTDOOR TRACK Overall

7-6 9-9 6-7 7-8 4-5 2-7 5-11 0-10

Tuesday’s Recap

Singles Abbot (WES) def. Cochran (WAY) 2-0, retired HArris (WAY) def. Matisi (WES), 6-4, 7-5 May (WES) def. Littlejohn (WAY) 3-6, 6-2, 8-5 Brunnette (WAY) def. Andino (WES) 6-1, 6-0 Foremski (WES) def. Phillips (WAY) 7-5, 2-6, 10-6 McKnight (WAY) def. McCarthy (WES) 6-2, 6-1 Doubles Cochran/Harris (WAY) def. Abbot/Matisi(WES) 9-8, 7-5 Littlejohn/Brunnette (WAY) def. Andino/Foremski (WES) 9-7 Phillips/McKnight (WAY) def. McCarthy/May (WES) 9-7

RECENT RESULTS

Friday, April 17 Grove City 9, Wash & Jeff 0; Thomas More 7, Berea 2 Saturday, April 18 Thomas More 5, Bethany 4; Grove City 9, Waynesburg 0; Wash & Jeff 8, Westminster 1 Sunday, April 19 Bethany 8, Muskingum 1

UPCOMING EVENTS Friday, April 24-Saturday, April 25 2015 PAC CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT 8:30 a.m.

PAC SOFTBALL LEADERS

Batting Average: Duerr, .519, SVC; Noel, .438, SVC; Shirey, .438, GRO RBI: Noel, 29, SVC; Duerr, 28, SVC; Fee, 27, GEN Home Runs: Lineberger, 6, SVC; Payne, 4, WAY; Stewart, 4, TMC Stolen Bases: Kelly, 11, BET; Hicks, 9, GEN; Finke, 8, TMC

WAYNESBURG ATHLETES OF THE WEEK Jonathon Kletzli, Baseball

Addy Knetzer, Women’s Track and Field

Hitter: Emily Watson, Junior, Washington & Jefferson Pitcher: Smantha Emert, Sophomore, Saint Vincent

RBI: Pogue, 40, TMC; Kenning, 35, TMC; Kletzli, 33, WAY Home Runs: Kilkeary, 6, SVC; Pogue, 5, TMC; Waugman, 5, GRO Stolen Bases: Rooney, 14, W&J; Fox, 11, SVC; Santana, 11, GEN

Waynesburg at Wash & Jeff DH - 1 p.m.

99.5 The Hive WCYJ-FM

MEN RECENT RESULTS

Team Saturday, April 18 DAVE LABOR INVITATIONAL This was an Unscored PAC Event POLAR BEAR INVITATIONAL 11. Thomas More, 18 pts.

Individual DAVE LABOR INVITATIONAL MEN 100 METER DASH 1. Carl Zallow, Youngstown ST., 10.51; 2. Leighton Antonio, Youngstown St., 10.60; 10. Chirstopher Jones, Thiel, 10.86 MEN 200 METER DASH 1. Carl Zallow, Youngstown St, 21.42; 2. Leighton Antonio, Youngstown St, 21.43; 8. Christopher Jones, Thiel, 21.93 MEN 400 METER DASH 1. Kyle Minger, Bethany, 48.73; 2. Mote Chapman, Slippery Rock, 49.41 MEN 800 METER DASH 1. Ryan Thompson, Slippery Rock, 1:55.16; 2.

Dy;in Wilhoite, Youngstown St, 1:57.14; 13. Steve Morgan, Thiel, 2:09.62 MEN 1500 METER DASH 1. Austin McLean, Youngstown St, 3:51.59; 2.

Tyler Palenchark, Slippery Rock, 3:59.14; 11. Steve Morgan, Thiel, 4:19.12 MEN 5000 METER RUN 1. Austin McLean, Youngstown St, 15:06.46; 2.

Paul Fleming, Carnegie Mellon, 16:06.75 MEN 110 METER HURDLES 1. Matt Bernadowski, UNA, 14.74; 2. Noah Bostick, Slippery Rock, 14.85; MEN 400 METER HURDLES 1. Savon Salter, California, 53.67; 2. Jacob VanHouten, Slippery Rock, 53.92; 8. Taran Sifontes-Lavine, Westminster, 57.02 MEN 3000 METER STEEPLECHASE 1. Stewart Jones, UNA, 9:20.61; 2. John Hutnyan, Youngstown St, 9:39.39 MEN POLE VAULT 1. Cam Daughtery, UNA, 5.01m; 2. Jordan Pacheco, Slippery Rock, 4.96m; 8. Andrew Brannen, Westminster, 4.26m MEN HIGH JUMP 1. Aaron Morgan, California, 2.04m; 2. Arnaldo Morales, Youngstown St, 2.04m; 3. Nic Jones, Thiel, 2.00m MEN LONG JUMP 1. Umar Moore, Bethany, 7.28m; 2. Nic Jones, Thiel, 7.25m MEN TRIPLE JUMP 1. Caleb Smithco, Slippery Rock, 14.70m; 2. Umar Moore, Bethany, 14.33m MEN SHOT PUT 1. Trevor Milller, Slippery Rock, 16.54m; 2. Ryan Booth, Youngstown St, 16.36m; 6. R.J. Malson, Thiel, 14.22m MEN DISCUS 1. Connor Neu, Youngstown St, 46.53m; 2. Ryan Booth, Youngstown St, 44.75m; 16. Evan Wagner, W&J, 38.55m MEN HAMMER THROW 1. Connor Neu, Youngstown St, 61.60m; 2. Nick Garuccio, Slippery Rock, 51.71m; 15. R.J. Malson, Thiel, 36.02m MEN’S JAVELIN THROW 1. Chris Carper, UNA, 67.35m; 2. Ryan Sherwood,

UNA, 64.43m; 8. Chris Casagrande, W&J, 48.60m

WOMEN RECENT RESULTS

Individual DAVE LABOR INVITATIONAL WOMEN 100 METER DASH 1. Nina Grambling, Youngstown St, 11.81; 2.

Jasmine Bailey, Slippery Rock, 12.14; 21. Brittany Traynor, W&J, 12.94 WOMEN 200 METER DASH 1. Jasmine Bailey, Slippery Rock, 24.70; 2. Jen Shiley, Youngstown St, 25.08; 23. Brittany Traynor, W&J, 26.86 WOMEN 400 METER DASH 1. Jen Shiley, Youngstown St, 55.92; 2. Allison Gibbens, Edinboro, 57.07; 12. Alex Hall, Thiel, 1:00.48 WOMEN 800 METER 1. Jada Wilson, Indiana, 2:19.47; 2. Chelsia Poole, Seton Hill, 2:20.65; 12. Meredith Steinmetz, Thiel, 2:28.41 WOMEN 1500 METER DASH 1. Janine Powis, Slippery Rock, 4:45.26; 2. Anna Hosl, Edinboro, 4:50.80; 11. Summer Walker, Thiel, 5:37.78 WOMEN 3000 METER RUN 1. Jackie Kleinschrodt, Seton Hill, 11:26.99; 2. Katie Guarnaccia, Point PArk, 18:32.06 WOMEN 5000 METER RUN 1. Meagan Carter, Seton Hill, 18:05.57; 2. Katie Guarniccia, Point Park, 18:32.06 WOMEN 100 METER HURDLES 1. Kennedy Evans, Slippery Rock, 14.43; 2. Hilari Noris, Edinboro, 14.70; 6. Morgan Berg, Thiel, 15.03 WOMEN 400 METER HURDLES 1. Taylor McDonald, Youngstown St, 1:02.77; 2.

Tatiana, Clarion, 1:03.60; 3. Marisa Toensing, Westminster, 1:03.84 WOMEN 3000 METER STEEPLECHASE 1. Chelsia Poole, Seton Hill, 11:07.25; 2. Kaylee Haberkam, Sippery Rock, 12:05.66 WOMEN HIGH JUMP 1. Ashley West, Slippery Rock, 1.68m; 2. Sabrina Anderson, Slippery Rock, 1.68m WOMEN POLE VAULT 1. Marissa Kalsey, Westminster, 4.01m; 2. Courtney McQuaide, Slippery Rock, 3.71m WOMEN LONG JUMP 1. Brianne Dietrich, Edinboro, 6.07m; 2. Savannah Osborne, Youngstown St, 5.55m; 15. Tatiana Ruzzini, W&J, 4.83m WOMEN TRIPLE JUMP 1. Ieisha Jackson, California, 11.60m; 2. Kailah Holmes, California, 11.52m; 16. Morgan Berg, Thiel, 10.09m WOMEN SHOT PUT 1. Jenifer Neider, Youngstown St, 13.59m; 2. Victoria Miller, Seton Hill, 12.39m; 18. Taylor Ketler, Thiel, 9.44m WOMEN DISCUS 1. Victoria Miller, Seton Hill, 38.84m; 2. Ciera Trybend, Youngstown St, 37.79m; 5. Taylor Ketler, Thiel, 36.60m WOMEN HAMMER THROW 1. Brittany, Christiansen, Slippery Rock, 51.78m; 2.

Jenifer Neider, Youngstown St, 489.62m; 8. Devon Dobbs, W&J, 38.50m WOMEN JAVELIN THROW 1. Samantha Taylor, Slippery Rock, 48.41m; 2.

Mallory Sanner, Seton Hill, 48.34m; 8. Erin DeFalco, Thiel, 31.50m

Sports

April 23, 2015

Weekly Awards

This week’s pair of standout athletes certainly deserve the honors, as they were able to step up their performances and guide their respective teams to victories. to earn this week's Athletes's of the Resnik Blair Week awards.

On the men’s side of things, junior pitcher Brian Resnik continued his dominance on the mound this season following a 2-0 effort this past week. Resnik is now 7-1 on the season, and he his tied for the Presidents’ Athletic Conference lead in wins.

During Saturday's game, Resnik wowed the opposing team as he threw a complete game against Bethany while allowing just two unearned runs on four hits and two walks. The 12 strikeouts that he registered put him alone atop the PAC in that category. He finished off his impressive week with a 1.93 earned-run average and 23 total strikeouts. After Tuesday's 5-4 win over Westminster, the Jackets battle Washington & Jefferson at home Friday.

On the women’s side of Waynesburg athletics, the lacrosse team received positive attention for their thrilling 9-8 victory over Franklin in the season finale that took place Saturday at John F. Wiley Stadium.

However, it was first-year player and junior Lauren Blair who stole the show, as she scored a last-second goal on a free-position shot, which propelled the Jackets to victory.

The Granville, Ohio native gave her team the victory with just over one second remaining on the clock, which allowed the women to see a program record in wins with five this season. The goal gave the women a 3-6 record in the inagural season of Ohio River Lacrosse Conference action.

With the win, the Waynesburg lacrosse team closes out the season on a high note with the win. The Jackets did not qualify for the ORLC playoffs, which take only the top four teams.

Page E3

Catching platoon keeps baseball fresh

Contrasting styles of Rubasky, Miller give Jackets balance

By CARSON FOX

Assistant Sports Editor

Ever since everyday starter and one of the best catchers in Waynesburg baseball history, Brendan Scioscia, graduated in 2012, head coach Mike Humiston has opted for a platoon approach for his backstops.

In 2013, then-junior Marc Timmons split time with then-freshman Derrick Zavatsky, and last year, the platoon increased to a three-man position, with Timmons, then-sophomore Tyler Rubasky and thenfreshman Josh Hausler all seeing time.

This year, Hausler made the move to the outfield after he and Humiston talked during the fall season about utilizing his speed in a different role.

As the season unfolded, it’s been a two-man gig between Rubasky and sophomore Ben Miller, a transfer from Susquehanna University, along with sophomore Scott Hefty working in the bullpen. According to Humiston, he platoons his catchers to maximize their potential without wearing them out behind the plate.

Tyler Wolfe, Yellow Jacket

After making four starts behind the plate in 2014, Tyler Rubasky, seen here in a game earlier this season, has started 17 of Waynesburg's 30 games.

“Because we’re playing so many games back-to-backto-back, what we’re trying to do is keep guys fresh,” said Humiston. “That’s part of our philosophy. The other thing is to give our opponents a different look.”

Miller, at 6'0," 205 pounds and Rubasky at 5’9” and 145 pounds shows there is an obvious difference in each players’ frame. Humiston said both add a different dimension for the ball club. He called Miller a great

addition to the team because of his arm strength, quick release, throwing accuracy and power at the plate. On the other hand, Rubasky is a spray hitter who is “baseballSee CATCHERS on E4

Tennis prepares for conference championships after rough final match Jackets look for redemption after 9-0 loss at Grove City

By AUSTIN ANDERSON For the Yellow Jacket

The Waynesburg men’s tennis team will travel to Erie, Pennsylvania this weekend with high expectations, as it takes part in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference tournament.

The Jackets find themselves in third place with a 5-2 conference record. They only trail the undefeated Grove City Wolverines (6-0) and Washington & Jefferson Presidents (6-1).

Waynesburg head coach Ron Christman believes that Waynesburg has an opportunity in all nine of the singles and doubles competitions, which are spread throughout different times on Friday and Saturday.

“I really have that kind of confidence in our team,” said Christman. “We have the talent. Everybody gets a little nervous, but we have to handle our own nerves.

In some cases, we have lost some matches where we did not lose to the opponent, but we lost because of ourselves.”

The Jackets suffered their second conference loss to Grove City on Saturday. Despite the Wolverines taking all nine singles and double matches, Christman was encouraged by his team’s efforts.

“Even though some of the scores do not show it, we

learned a lot,” he said. “We are are going to get a couple days of practice in to work on specific things for each player and each doubles team.”

The one match that caught the eye of Christman was the number-two doubles match, as Waynesburg freshman Andrew Brunette and senior Phillip Littlejohn fell to Grove City’s Dan Schafhauser and Zack Sprunger, 9-8.

“They were down 1-4 and made a match out of it, and then lost in the tiebreak,” said Christman. “Grove City was nervous. The coach and the players were nervous.

They didn’t know whether if they were going to pull that out or not.”

Christman felt that this particular doubles match was in Waynesburg’s grasp.

“It probably was a little bit of freshman nerves in Andy’s case on that last point when he made an error,” he said.

“If he makes a good volley in that case, then they’re still in the match. He’s one of the ones that learned something.”

The Jackets are led by senior Isaiah Cochran, who finished 3-4 in conference play and 4-8 overall in the number one-singles position and feels that the majority of the losses were due to nagging injury.

“I am putting an asterisk next to three of my losses,

Dave Miller, ADM Photography

Senior Isaiah Cochran, pictured here in a match earlier this season, is set to make some noise at Saturday's PAC Championships at first singles. Cochran has battled injuries since his freshmen year. so really the only one I am taking ownership of is the one against Grove City,” Cochran said. “Peter [Riley] is a strong player, and there’s some things I’ve needed to do better that the score does not indicate how I played. It will be different this weekend when we play.”

Christman understands

the ups and downs of Cochran’s injury, and how he fares against the rest of the pack.

“He’s kind of messed up the seedings because he’s beat players that should be higher-seeded. He retired against Westminster, but he should have retired against Thiel as well,” said Christ-

Longo: In the end, everything works out Continued from E1

have been on the executive staff for, I have learned a great deal. I’ve stayed up until the early hours of the morning, writing on deadline to cover stories such as the 2012 election night and the Boston Marathon bombings. I’ve written opinion pieces that didn’t quite sit well with some members of the administration that reside in Miller Hall. I’ve even had some strong thoughts on athletic teams on campus that felt like I was attacking them, instead of me simply being critical, since that’s what journalists do.

At any rate, I’ve learned that this business can be a glorified hell, even if you’re right, wrong or indifferent.

As I look back at everything that has transpired the last four years, I really don’t know what to think. Like every other college student, it was a roller coaster ride.

There were smiles and jubilation, tears and heartaches, all sandwiched between a multiple senses of accomplishment. I am the first in my family to move away from home and go to college.All I’ve ever wanted to accomplish in my life is to make my parents proud of the person I’ve become, and all I can do is hope I’ve done an OK job of that to this point.

But there’s another thing I discovered here at Waynesburg, other than one heck of a sunset on cool spring evenings. I stumbled upon a second home for four years. I’ve made some good friends and

even a couple of enemies, but support I have received chasing this wild and crazy dream of mine has been outstanding.From the support of the faculty around Waynesburg; especially in the department of communication, from my newly created friends and my old high school ones I remain in contact with today, to of course my wonderful family and my girlfriend, Katherine. Without their support, I would be nothing. But above all, I have to thank the man upstairs to leading me to this place with wonderful people.

Once again, all of this would be nonexistent if it wasn’t for that man who intrigued me with baseball throughout the majority of my childhood, keeping me on the edge of my seat, even if the team he watched 162

times each summer had 21-straight losing seasons (side note, I feel like I’m partially to be blamed for that, considering I was born on Opening Day of the 1993 season). From the bottom of my heart, I cannot thank Mr. Frattare enough for taking me under his wing and looking out for me. It’s a debt that I don’t think I can ever repay.

As far as my college choice goes, I was a little skeptical in my first semester or two at Waynesburg. I wasn’t sure if I belonged here or not.

But as time went on, I knew this is where I belonged.

So, if someone asked me if Waynesburg was the right decision, I can happily sum up my thoughts in one, brief statement.

There was no doubt about it.

man. Brunette has fared well in the fourth-singles position. He is 4-3 in conference play and 5-7 overall in his first season.

“I played soccer in high school, so I am used to running around a lot. A lot of people in the four position are usually well-rounded athletes, instead of solely ten-

nis players,” said Brunette.

“There are players who are going to run down the ball and get the ball like crazy. It’s a good matchup for me.”

The Pennbriar Athletic Club in Erie will once again host the two-day event.

The first matches begin at 8:30 a.m. Friday, with the finals set for Saturday.

Saturday's women's track performance could help end rebuilding phase “I think we are still in a rebuilding stage with the girl’s team,” said Falvo. “I believe After six months of prep- we are two years away from aration, the culmination of a championship run. A topthe track season four finish is realisbegins Friday. tic for them.”

The women’s The coach notes track team will that his team is head to Grove strong in several City, Pennsylvania areas, but the lack to compete in the of depth across Presidents’ Aththe entire team letic Conference will likely not be Championship for enough to win a its two-day event. title this season.

Knetzer Despite the ex“I believe we are citement for championship strong across the board for weekend, head coach Jason the throws, jumps and disFalvo wants to temper expec- tance,” said Falvo. “We do tations for the team heading into the meet.

See WOMEN on E4

By BRENDAN KEANY Staff Writer

Sports

Page E4

April 23, 2015

Waynesburg Football: Secondary sees biggest improvement in spring

By CARSON FOX

Assistant Sports Editor

With spring practices now over for the Waynesburg University football team, head coach Rick Shepas was most impressed with the improvements made among the members of the defensive secondary during spring practice.

Last year, the Jackets finished last in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference in the pass defense statistical category, allowing teams to pass for an average of 250 yards a game.

Shepas noted the team made what he called a “bold” move of moving starting quarterback contender and current-freshman Christian Breisinger to safety to bolster the core in the secondary.

Now, Shepas believes he has a competitive group in the secondary with currentsophomores: Roomel Reese, Tevin Odom, Eli Hargis, Josh Mundell, Zach Sniadach and current-junior Dontae Gibson, as well as Breisinger.

“I think the secondary,

which was not a strength for our team last year, will definitely be a defensive strength coming back,” said Shepas.

The most concerning position for Waynesburg heading into 2015 is quarterback with three-year starter Carter Hill graduating. Though, Shepas noted that spring ball isn’t exactly the time for a depth chart to be formed without players going full throttle in pads, he noted that the quarterback competition has become a two-man race between sophomore Chris Shortley and freshman transfer Cage Galupi from Marietta College. Shepas mentioned Shortley had the best finish of the spring, while Galupi said he spent most of the spring learning the playbook, his new receivers and the calls.

Galupi transferred from Marietta because he believed the program wasn’t doing the things necessary to be a winning program like Waynesburg, since he came from western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League powerhouse North Allegheny.

Heading into the summer, Galupi plans on improving his strength and conditioning, as well as working with his new receivers so he can compete for the starting quarterback job.

“That’s the number-one goal,” said Galupi. “That’s why I’m here. I wanted to come in, and I wanted to play, so that’s definitely the focus this summer – to do everything I can and make sure that happens.”

Addressing the offensive skill positions, Shepas confirmed that running back Willie Leavell will return for another season since he has another year of eligibility.

Behind Leavell, Shepas noted current-freshman Blake Roar as someone who has made the most out of spring practice with current-junior running back Jerry Lawman in Germany due to an internship.

He said Roar will be used both out of the slot and in the backfield in 2015.

Shepas said current-sophomore tight end Dan Davis had an excellent offseason, and current-freshman Jon

Babos will be used as both a tight end and a back. On the outside, look for currentsophomores Kevin Barnes Jr. and Tim Cooper to have big seasons in 2015.

“We gotta find a way to get Tim Cooper and Kevin Barnes the ball as much as we can,” said Shepas.

Along the offensive front, Shepas said the team experimented with using currentjunior Tyler Powell at tackle, with three-year starter and current-junior Nik Sappie solidifying the line at center.

They will be counted on most as leaders, as Shepas noted he will play a number of younger guys along the line early on in the season. “[Sappie] will definitely lead that group,” said Shepas.

“Along with Tyler Powell. I like the way we look up front.”

On the defensive line, Waynesburg has had a strong recent track record at defensive end with playmakers Matt Krause, Brandon Fedorka and Josh Tolliver all being counted on as playmaking pass rushers.

Shepas said current-juniors Kurt Detwiler and Jordan Voitus will solidify that position, but current-freshman Brad Grinnen will be the next “guy.” In six games played last season, the six foot, 225 pound Grinnen recorded five tackles, but showed explosion off the line of scrimmage.

“He played a lot as a freshman, like Fedorka did,” said Shepas. “He was a playmaker and got better.”

At linebacker, current-junior and second leading tackler from 2014 Aaron Palmer will be counted on to lead the charge, as Waynesburg will be looking to replace reliable graduating starters John Sikora and Kyle Richey. Shepas mentioned current-junior Jon Carlier and current-sophomore Tyler Givens as potential starters, but they will be pushed by a slew of incoming players to the position.

“We got some great newcomers,” said Shepas. “We have Michael Heasley – a local newcomer, Bo Hampson in the secondary. Both are going to be significant play-

ers; and Tristan Sandrosky.

Sandrosky was a linebacker in high school, but I wanted to put him at safety since I knew we were going to have depth problems in the secondary.

He’s more comfortable down low.”

Shepas said the team had a particularly early spring season to allow the players to finish the school year in the weight room, as the focus now turns to strength and conditioning heading into summer.

He noted that the team has five weeks of training before the team competes in a scrimmage Aug. 28 against Carnegie Mellon, but the team may need two additional scrimmages, as well as the first two weeks of the non-conference season to figure out the quarterback position.

“Every year, we look at our roster and make sure that we make the best moves defensively first, to solidify, because you need to be a great defensive football team to win games in this league,” said Shepas. “We did that.”

Softball splits doubleheader Catchers: Rotation leads with second-place Presidents to success behind the plate Continued from E3

Rob Longo, Yellow Jacket

Sophomore Demi Lewin, pictured here in a game earlier this season, drove in three runs to pace the Jackets to a 4-3 in game one of Tuesday's doubleheader.

Solid offense, Kotomski's complete game lead Jackets to win over W&J

By RJ LEISIE Staff Writer

After getting swept this past weekend, while continuing its six-game losing streak, the Waynesburg University softball team was looking for something good to end the regular season home portion of the schedule. Unfortunately, the Washington & Jefferson Presidents, who were tied for the lead in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference heading into Tuesday, were coming to town.

The first game of the doubleheader featured back-andforth action with the Jackets striking first. Junior infielder Jess Dorazio, who was moved up from her normal ninth position in the lineup to the second spot, had a one out, triple in her first at-bat. Sophomore Demi Lewin drove in Dorazio with an RBI single to left field. “[Lewin] has been a steady

presence in our lineup,” said head coach Richele Hall. “She went cold for a little in the season, but all hitters do it. She’s back in the groove and hitting in the three spot and driving in RBIs, which are huge for our team.”

W&J couldn't answer until the third inning when third basemen Sadie Marak drove in a run on a single to second base. The Presidents added another run in that inning and one in the top of the fifth.

Trailing 3-1 heading into the bottom of the fifth, the Jackets turned to the top of the lineup, looking for some offense, and they got just what they were looking for. Senior outfielder Theresa Soknich lead off the inning with a single, and then advanced to second on a base hit by Dorazio. Lewin dug in and looked to do some damage.

“I just went up to bat with an open mind and was fo-

cused on getting the ball in play,” said Lewin. “I knew on a 3-2 count, she was going to put the ball in the strike zone, and I was able to drive it.”

And drive it, she did. Lewin hit a bases clearing triple, driving in her second and third RBIs, respectively, and tied the game at three apiece with the Presidents. Senior infielder Haley Payne followed with a sacrifice fly to centerfield, and Lewin tagged up and gave the Jackets a 4-3 lead.

Junior Stephanie Kotomski, who started the day on the rubber for Waynesburg, looked to finish out the game, not just for her, but also for the team, as a whole. She went the full seven innings, while only giving up those three runs on 10 total hits.

“I just wanted to end the season on a good note,” said Kotomski. “Especially since W&J is a big rival. We just wanted to get a win.”

minded” in the way that he can control a game because of his familiarity with the pitching staff and blocking ability.

“Both have done very well,” said Humiston. “We’re fortunate to have two guys that we feel comfortable throwing in at any given time.”

After going through a frustrating freshman season, both behind the plate and at the dish for Susquehanna, Miller said he has acclimated to Waynesburg thanks to his teammates accepting him as a friend, not just as another person in a uniform.

He said that he’s been focused on working on his receiving and blocking, since his former school considered him a defensive liability. As of the Bethany series this past weekend, Miller’s thrown out six runners trying to steal a base and hasn’t allowed a ball get past him in three weeks.

“My throwing has always been my strongest ability behind the plate,” said Miller. “I have the tendency to throw a lot of runners out.”

At the plate, Miller has been one of the power hitters for Waynesburg’s offensive attack that is in the upper half of the Presidents’ Athletic Conference.

As of Wednesday, he owns a .589 slugging percentage, leads the team in home runs with three and has recorded five doubles with 13 RBIs. Despite splitting time with Rubasky, Miller said he gets along well with his counterpart and appreciates that there is another catcher on the team that he can rely on when he’s not in the game.

Women: Jackets look to snap expectations Continued from E3

not have enough depth in the sprints at this time.”

A top-four finish at a conference championship meet is always the goal for both the men and women’s programs, according to Falvo.

If those goals are met from a team standpoint, Falvo will be pleased with the results.

However, there are several individuals who look to perform well at the meet. Falvo called out a few members of the team who could piece together solid days. Freshman standout thrower Addy Knetzer was the first name that came to his mind.

“Addy Knetzer in shot put,

discus and the javelin,” said Falvo. “She is an MVP candidate, for sure.”

Knetzer certainly has put together a solid season, especially since much of the training season for her was occupied by her participation in basketball.

Despite her late arrival to the track scene because of basketball season, Knetzer has already won the shot put event at the Indoor PAC Championship meet, and she has been a steady thrower throughout every invitational since the outdoor season began.

Falvo also mentioned that standout freshman Julie Gerber and senior Annette Aho should be forces in both

the 5,000-meter run and the 10,000-meter run, respectively.

With so many underclassmen looking to make an impact on the biggest stage of the season, Falvo places importance on the captains to make sure that everyone stays calm.

“I look for great leadership,” said Falvo. “The captains need to smooth out the high emotions that happen at this meet. We cannot get too high or too low. We need to stay focused and grind it out.

They need to set that tone.”

Furthermore, Falvo looks at the experience gained from competing at the indoor championship meet as a positive for the younger

track and field athletes who lack the experience.

“I believe it’s all an experience thing,” said Falvo. “Indoor PAC’s helped in a major way with this. We have been in this situation before.

The pressure has been there.

They handled it, and they did some great things.”

Although a victory at the championship meet this weekend appears rather unlikely, Falvo still believes that his team will still compete hard and perform well for, if anything, personal pride.

“I believe they are ready,” said Falvo. “They have worked very hard all year and are going to peak at the right time."

Though, like Rubasky, Miller is a competitor, but doesn’t see the competition for playing time as adversarial.

“In high school, I caught pretty much every game during my junior and senior years,” said Miller. “So I am used to catching every game. But with college having a 40-game schedule, no catcher is going to be able to be 100 percent. [Rubasky] is a really good catcher, so it’s nice knowing we’re still solid behind the plate.”

After seeing sparing playing time as a freshman and starting a handful of games behind the place as a sophomore, Rubasky has made major strides, specifically at the plate this season.

As of Wednesday's action, Rubasky owns a .477 onbase percentage, while pacing Miller in hits and runs batted in. But it has been attention to minor details this season that he attributes to his improvements – controlling the game, glove work, blocking and getting bigger in the weight room.

“At this point, my mechanics are there at the plate and behind the plate,” said Rubasky. “It’s all just the little things.”

When asked who would get the start behind the plate in a high-pressure situational game, such as a PAC Championship clinching game, Humiston had to take a deep breath and think it over as if it was the milliondollar question on "Who Wants to be a Millionaire," before ultimately deciding on starting Rubasky at catcher and Miller at designated hitter. One could tell it was a difficult decision to make.

“Miller can hit the long ball,” said Humiston. “It’s not that I don’t have confidence

in Miller, but [Rubasky] has a better grasp of kind of what we’re doing, how we’re doing things and working the pitching staff. He’s been here for three years, so he knows these guys.”

Speaking as if he was drawing up the lineup card for a possible playoff game, Humiston likes the pairing of Rubasky with starting junior pitcher Brian Resnik, but it is subject to change in Humiston’s eyes.

“Just to know that the coaching staff and my teammates have confidence in me makes all the difference, especially from a pitching standpoint,” said Rubasky.

“If my center fielder doesn’t have confidence in me behind the plate but my pitcher does, and the coaching staff, that’s all that matters."

Though Miller feels as if he can contribute better behind the plate than at the designated hitter spot, he’s accepting of the way that Humiston draws up the lineup card in that type of a situation.

“No coach wants a player that is satisfied with not playing,” said Miller. “I’ve always tried my best on the field to perform, so it doesn’t add any extra fuel to the fire, but it just confirms the reason why I need to show what I can do every single day.”

Because of the battle for starting time at the catching position due to each player’s differences in skill sets, one would wonder whether it is seen as a strength or weakness for the Waynesburg University baseball team.

But when asked if the catching p osition is a strength on the team, Humiston summed it up in one, profound word.

“Absolutely.”

Track: Jackets to compete at PAC Championships Continued from E2

PAC Track MVP, as well as the PAC Track and Field MVP. He placed first in the 400-meter dash and the 400-meter hurdles.

Also being recognized at last year’s PAC Outdoor Championships was thenjunior jumper Jason Propst, who finished as an Honorable Mention All-PAC selection in the high jump.

This year’s crop of athletes is confident that they can get it done and follow it the footsteps of their successors.

“Our keys to success are us performing the way we have been performing all year

long,” said Minjock. “We have the potential to do great things. We just need to fulfill our roles.”

“Quite honestly, we just got to do what we do best – perform,” added Schubert.

“We have everything it takes to win. We have a strong team overall, and we just have to go out and perform our best and we will come out on top.”

As head coach Jason Falvo always says, “you are either all in or all out,” and this year’s team is definitely buying in to this team’s success.

“Our team is locked and loaded,” said Minjock. “We are going to make a surprise at the PAC Championships."