CAMPUS BIOLOGISTS BILL HAMILTON AND DEBORAH SILLMAN'S
"Ecologist's Notebook: Reflections on the Natural World of Western Pennsylvania"

Bill Hamilton, assistant professor of biology, and Deborah Sillman, senior instructor in biology, are a team at Penn State New Kensington who oversee the maintenance of the campus Nature Trail that was constructed in 1985.

Each spring, the biologists write a blog about the birds, insects, mammals and flowers that herald the arrival of spring. On their blog site, "Ecologist's Notebook: Reflections on the Natural World of Western Pennsylvania," they report on their observations around their Apollo house and on local nature trails, as well as the campus trail. This year they are getting an early start.

The first blog, "Signs of Spring," was written Jan. 30 by Hamilton and deals with skunks coming out of winter hibernation and looking for mates.

Their second blog, "Ladybugs," was written on Feb. 6 and talks about these insects emerging. More will follow in the coming weeks.

For Hamilton's blogs and comments, visit http://www.personal.psu.edu/hw7/blogs/nature/index.html online.

Ladybugs are the topic of the second blog.

ADMISSIONS EVENT FOR PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS
8:45 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 29
Call 724-334-LION

Get a glimpse of college life first-hand at the Penn State New Kensington campus from 8:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 29, as a part of the "Be a Penn State Student for a Day" program.

High school students and adult learners can sit in on college classes, interact with current students and take in the campus' atmosphere. Participants will learn about admissions requirements and the financial aid process. Attendees can enjoy a free lunch in Cafe 780. The next "Spend a Day" event is March 28.

To reserve a spot, call 724-334-LION or 888-968-PAWS.

For more on admissions events, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions/admevents.htm?cn11 online.

PRESENTED BY PENN STATE PLAYERS
Thursday-Saturday, April 19-21, Forum Theatre

A featured event of Penn State New Kensington's cultural series, the musical "Cabaret” is the spring stage production of the Penn State Players.

Director Bill Mitas, instructor in theatre arts, has selected a student cast for the three performances that run April 19-21 in the Forum Theatre. The musical, based on the John Van Druten play, is set in 1929 Berlin, at the start of the Nazi Germany.

The cast, currently in rehearsal, includes Chris Capo, Juliann Motosicky, Michael Lowe, Cindi Debor, John Lutman, Andrew Wolf, Debbie Wojciechowski, Danielle Dortenzo, Megan Zidek, Katie Houser, Jillian Snoznik, Kaylyn Farneth, Courtney Rockwell, Michael Fiorina, Andrew Sheffler, Daniel Sheffler, Reid Rotzler, Jimmy Baker, Shahara Seimah, Shenieka Wilson, Lauren Scham, and Sylean Wilson.

In addition to Mitas, the crew features: George Pecoraro, musical director; Motosicky, choreographer; Angie Mitas and  Maria Delvechio, costumes; Katie Houser, dialect coach; Daniel Sheffler and Andrew Sheffler, light design; Lee Herman and Travis Klinger, sound design; Wilson, lighting crew; and Schram, props.

For more information, call 724-334-6032.

"CABARET"
Book by Joe Masteroff
Based on the play by John Van Druten
and Stories by Christopher Isherwood
Music by John Kander
Lyrics by Fred Ebb

CAST AND CHARACTERS

CHRIS CAPO: The Emcee
Emcee of the Kit Kat Klub, a leering, ghoulish, flamboyant, figure

JULIANN MOTOSICKY: Sally Bowles
Headlining British singer at the Kit Kat Klub

MICHAEL LOWE: Clifford Bradshaw
An American writer traveling through Berlin

CINDI DEBOR: Fräulein Schneider
An older woman who runs the boarding house where Cliff and Sally live

JOHN LUTMAN: Herr Schultz
An elderly Jewish fruit shop owner who falls in love with Fraulein Schneider

ANDREW WOLF: Ernst Ludwig
A German man who befriends Cliff when he arrives in Berlin

DEBBIE WOJCIECHOWSKI: Fräulein Kost
A prostitute who rents in Fraulein Schneider's boarding house

DANIELLE DORTENZO, MEGAN ZIDEK, KATIE HOUSER: Rosie, LuLu, Frenchy 
JILLIAN SNOZNIK, KAYLYN FARNETH, COURTNEY ROCKWELL: Texas, Fritzy, Helga
Girls who perform alongside Sally at the Kit Kat Klub

ANDREW SHEFFLER, DANIEL SHEFFLER: Bobby, Victor, Hans, and Herman
The Cabaret boys of the Kit Kat Klub (Bobby and Victor are twins)

MICHAEL FIORINA: The Nazi Youth
A young boy in the Nazis

ANDREW SHEFFLER, DANIEL SHEFFLER: Sailors #1 and #2
Fraulein Kost's sailors

REID ROTZLER: Nazi Guard
Ernst's bodyguard at the Kit Kat Klub

JIMMY BAKER: Max
Owner of the Kit Kat Club

SHAHARA SEIMAH, SHENIEKA WILSON, LAUREN SCHAM,
DEBBIE WOJCIECHOWSKI, SYLEAN WILSON: Kit Kat Klub Patrons/Chorus

CREW

Director: WILLIAM R. MITAS                                     
Musical Director: GEORGE PECORARO                             
Choreographer: JULIANN MOTOSICKY                         
Costumes: ANGIE MITAS, MARIA DELVECHIO
Dialect Coach: KATIE HOUSER                                                                  
Light Design:  DANIEL SHEFFLER, ANDREW SHEFFLER             
Sound Design: LEE HERMAN, TRAVIS KLINGER
Lighting: SYLEAN WILSON                                
Props: LAUREN SCHRAM  

Liza Minnelli and Joel Grey both earned Academy Awards for their performances in the 1972 movie.

PLOT OUTLINE

"Welcome to the Cabaret," sings the Emcee of the Kit Kat Club through painted lips, as the people of Berlin 1929 join him. Both versions of this show follow the same story and share most songs. Musical numbers exclusively in the Original 1967 version include "Meeskite" and "Why Should I Wake Up?" Numbers only in the Revised 1987 version include "I Don't Care Much," "Don't Go" and "The Money Song". Both versions include "Willkommen," "Perfectly Marvelous,"  "Sitting Pretty,"  "Tomorrow Belongs to Me," "Cabaret"," Don't Tell Mama," "It Couldn't Please Me More," and "Two Ladies."  

Heading for Berlin in a railway compartment is Clifford Bradshaw, a young, impoverished American writer who has been roaming Europe in an increasingly frantic search for the inspiration for novel number two. He is joined by Ernst Ludwig, an attractive young Berliner who appears to be in the smuggling business. When Cliff inadvertently helps him, Ernst gratefully gives him the name of a lively rooming-house in Berlin. It is Fraulein Schneider's house. She rents Cliff a room for half its usual price. She shrugs her shoulders. She's lived through so much-nothing is that important-"So What?" Cliff takes out his typewriter. But it's New Year's Eve. Ernst has mentioned a cabaret called the Kit Kat Klub. At the moment it seems much more inviting than the typewriter. 

The Kit Kat Klub is a cross-section of Berlin night-life: thronged with fat, middle-class Germans-prostitutes-homosexuals-the flotsam and jetsam of a doomed city.  As Cliff enters, the Emcee introduces Sally Bowles, a young English girl. As Sally sings "Don't Tell Mama," it becomes apparent that her voice is not the main reason for her employment. Max, the club owner, keeps looking at her in a proprietary fashion. But Sally is looking at Cliff.

Sally arranges to meet Cliff. He invites her home, but she refuses-explaining that, "Max is most terribly jealous."

The next day Sally suddenly appears in Cliff's room with her baggage. Max has thrown her out. Can she stay with Cliff? Cliff finally agrees-"Perfectly Marvelous."   

The Emcee and two frauleins indicate that everybody in Berlin lives with somebody-"Two Ladies"    

Fraulein Schneider is being courted by Herr Schultz, a widower who lives in her house. He is Jewish and the owner of a fruit shop, from which he brings her a costly pineapple-"It Couldn't Please Me More." 

Months pass. Cliff is getting nowhere with his novel-but enjoying life with Sally-"Why Should I Wake Up?" But Sally is pregnant. Cliff is upset-then happy. Ernst arrives to offer him a job smuggling a briefcase into Germany. Needing the money, Cliff accepts.     

Everyone in Berlin earns money in strange, illegal ways-the Emcee announces in "The Money Song."    

Fraulein Kost, a prostitute, discovers that her landlady, Fraulein Schneider, is having an affair with Herr Schultz. Herr Schultz announces they are to be married in three weeks-"Married." Sally arranges an engagement party at the fruit shop.     

Cliff arrives at the party with the smuggled suitcase. He hesitantly gives it to Ernst, who wears a swastika arm-band. Herr Schultz, rather drunk, sings a Yiddish-type song, "Meeskite." Ernst decides to leave, but Fraulein Kost lures him back by singing a Nazi song, "Tomorrow Belongs to Me." When all the guests join in exultantly, the party suddenly turns sour.     

The Emcee and Kit Kat Girls do a Rockette routine which turns into a goose-step.     

Fraulein Schneider breaks her engagement to Herr Schultz. She is afraid the Nazis will come to power-"What Would You Do?"     

The Emcee echoes her predicament. He's in love with a female gorilla-"If You Could See Her."     

Cliff decides to take Sally home to America. Berlin is not going to be any place to raise a family. But Sally refuses. She loves Berlin and her life there-"Cabaret." They have a savage argument. Sally disappears, returning the next day. She's had an abortion. Heartbroken, Cliff prepares to leave alone, secretly hoping she will join him in Paris. But Sally informs him she's always hated Paris. Cliff sadly closes the door behind him. In the train, Cliff begins to write about Sally and the people of Berlin as, in his memory, they surround the compartment-singing, dancing, living on the toboggan that led to the Third Reich.

OVERVIEW OF MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
OFFERED AT REGIONAL LEARNING ALLIANCE
6:00 p.m., Monday, Feb. 13
  6:00 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 16

The first two information sessions on the new Penn State Master of Business Administration program are set for 6 p.m. on Monday, February 13, and Thursday, Feb. 16, at the Regional Learning Alliance in Cranberry, Pa. Penn State New Kensington will partner with Penn State Erie, The Behrend College to offer the MBA degree in the fall.

The information sessions will discuss curriculum, course content and expectations, credit exemptions, application requirements, scholarships, tuition reimbursement, and loan options. Attendees will have an opportunity to network and ask questions.

Guest speakers include Al Warner, director of the MBA program and associate professor of management at Behrend, and Ann Burbules, assistant director of graduate admissions at Behrend. Warner will discuss the MBA faculty, the strengths they bring to the table, an overview of the curriculum and how prospective students will advance their skill set and their career. Burbules will provide admission information, application requirements, deadline dates, test preparation overview and financing options.

The curriculum emphasizes the development of planning and problem-solving skills.  Course work will focus on the practical application of theory to the business world, often enabling students to work with local organizations to fashion real solutions to real problems.

The program will be offered in a blended delivery whereby students will meet face-to-face once per month with the remainder of the course online.  Each three-credit course will involve four class meetings per semester at the RLA with the remaining instruction delivered online. The proposed class time is 6:00 p.m. until 8:45 p.m. Depending on prior undergraduate courses, it will take approximately five to eight semesters to complete the program. This format is ideal for working adults who travel. 

The Regional Learning Alliance was established in 2004 with the cooperation of educational institutions in the region. It offers a variety of degree programs and workforce training for adult and traditional students. Penn State New Kensington is a charter member of the alliance.

The last information session is set for 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 27, at the Cranberry location.

To register for the sessions, visit https://secure.bd.psu.edu/MBAForms/MBAInformationSession.aspx online

BASKETBALL CONCLUDES 2011-12 CAMPAIGN
7:00 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 8,
Penn State Beaver, Athletics Center

Penn State New Kensington’s men’s basketball team concludes its season at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 8, when first-place Penn State Beaver visits the Athletics Center.

For winter sports schedules, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/28376.htm (basketball) and http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/36290.htm (wrestling).

"MOBSTERS, MOLLS AND MARINARA"
5:00 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 26, Cafe 780

Whodunnit? That's what you will have to figure out at Penn State New Kensington's interactive murder mystery dinner theatre, “Mobsters, Molls and Marinara,” at 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 26, in the campus’ Café 780.

Set in Chicago during the roaring ‘20s, the action revolves around Vinnie Vermicelli’s speakeasy. When Vinnie turns up dead, everybody is a suspect. The audience, along with the cast," Mystery’s Most Wanted," a Pittsburgh-based troupe, will help solve the murder.

Tickets are free for students with ID, $10 for faculty and staff, and $20 for the general public. Price includes dinner and theatre.

To reserve your seat, contact Lauren Blum, student life coordinator, at 724- 334-6063 or ldb14@psu.edu via email.

DOC AND LINDA MUELLER ENDOW
$50,000 TRUSTEE SCHOLARSHIP

Benefits Students in
Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology Program

For the past 14 years, Robert "Doc" Mueller, associate professor of engineering at Penn State New Kensington, has helped his students earn engineering degrees; now he is helping them pay for the degrees.

Mueller and his wife, Linda, recently established the Doc and Linda Mueller Trustee Scholarship at the campus. The $50,000 endowment is a need-based scholarship, and new and current students are eligible to receive the annual awards. First preference will be given to students in the four-year Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology (EMET) program.

“Our motivation was that scholarships allowed me to attend college,” said Doc Mueller, who was born and raised on a small farm in Kansas. “It is an appropriate way to repay the opportunities that were given to me because I had a degree.”

Mueller joined the campus faculty in 1998 and teaches upper-level courses in electro-mechanical engineering and lower-level courses in computer engineering technology. The EMET degree program emphasizes all fields of engineering technology related to typical, highly-automated manufacturing, production, or assembly plant processes. He holds a doctorate in electrical engineering from the University of Pittsburgh and earned a bachelor's degree from Wichita State University in Kansas.

Prior to Penn State New Kensington, Mueller spent more than 30 years in the private industry working with industrial control systems. A registered professional engineer in Pennsylvania, he is a consultant regarding industrial automation and serves as an expert witness in product liability and wrongful death lawsuits. He served for 21 years in the military and retired as a colonel from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Mueller is a member of the American Society of Engineering Educators and the American Society of Military Engineers, as well as a senior grade member of the Instrumentation, Systems and Automation Society and the Institute of Electrical Engineers. His consulting firm, Industrial Automation and Control Inc., provides engineering solutions for control system problems. The company is located in the Westmoreland County Business and Research Park on Pennsylvania State Route 780, about four miles from campus.

Linda Mueller is founder and president of a personal care home in Butler, Pa. The 40-bed facility serves disabled veterans. Her association with the campus goes back to her student days. After becoming a registered nurse, she enrolled in the new bachelor’s degree in nursing program. She was a member of Penn State New Kensington’s first class of nursing graduates.

The Freeport, Pa., residents are longtime Penn State donors and have advocated for other campus scholarships and programs. They sponsor the annual Chancellor’s Gala that raises funds for the Advisory Board’s Trustee Scholarship, and they support the Faculty Speaker Series, a biannual lecture and discussion program that is geared to the local community. Doc Mueller received a teaching award in 2010. In keeping with his support of engineering students, he donated the award money to the Bernard and Geraldine Guss Endowed Scholarship. Bernie Guss, professor emeritus of engineering, established the scholarship in 2001 for local students majoring in engineering technology at the campus.

In addition to his academic responsibilities and philanthropic generosity, Doc Mueller co-chairs the campus' Faculty/Staff Campaign for the University's current $2 billion fundraising effort, For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students. The campus is responsible for raising $3 million of the total and is on track to reach its goal. With two and a half years remaining in the campaign, the campus has already hit the $2 million mark, which is 66 percent of its total.

The campus offers a two engineering degrees --a  bachelor's in electro-mechanical engineering, (http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/Degrees/39807.htm); and an associate's degree in biomedical engineering technology (http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/Degrees/bet.html).

WALMART, PITTSBURGH MILLS
GOLDEN CORRAL, ROBINSON TOWNSHIP
SHOP 'N SAVE, ROUTE 286
COMMUNITY MARKET, PENN HILLS
COMMUNITY MARKET, LOWER BURRELL
PRIMANTI BROS., HARMAR
Friday-Sunday, Feb. 3-5

Students at Penn State New Kensington are making their final fundraising push this weekend to benefit the Penn State Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Dance Marathon, aka THON.

Campus students will be canning Friday, Feb. 3 to Sunday, Feb. 5, at Walmart in Pittsburgh Mills, Golden Corral in Robinson Township, Shop 'N Save on Route 286 in Holiday Park, Primanti Bros. in Harmar, and Community Market franchises in Lower Burrell and Penn Hills, to raise money for what is believed to be the largest student-run philanthropy in the world. The proceeds go to research of children's cancer.

THON is a University-wide event, and Lauren Richards, THON committee chair for the New Kensington campus, moved the final canning weekend up by a week after the Jan. 20 weekend was cancelled due to the snow storm.

“Even though we lost a canning weekend, we aren't giving up on our goal or the kids,” said Richards, an information sciences and technology major. "We have really good fundraisers and an awesome team."

THON culminates at Penn State University Park with a 46-hour, no sitting, no sleeping marathon from Feb. 17-19 that benefits the fight against pediatric cancer. The number of dancers going to University Park from each campus is based on the amount of money raised by the campus the previous year. In 2011, New Kensington students raised $52,392, shattering the campus record of $23,000 set in 2010. Since 2002, the campus has collected more than $162,000 for the charity.

Joe Mandak, senior corporate communications major from New Kensington, Erin Prager, senior business administration major from Natrona Heights, Andrew Holodnik, senior administration of justice major from Penn Hills, and Kelsie Nury, a freshman education major from Lower Burrell will represent the New Kensington campus at THON.

The four students were chosen by an interview committee and the selections were based on participation in campus THON activities that began in September-- canning hours, meetings attended, and raising at least $1,000 apiece. The dancers will join more than 700 Penn State students from all the campuses at the Bryce Jordan Center during THON weekend. All monies raised through the dance marathon directly benefit the Four Diamonds Fund at the Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital.

“With everything we have faced this year, we continue to thrive on as an organization, university, team, but most of all as a family," said Nicki Thoma, a junior business major and a 2011 THON dancer.

Even though it’s the final canning event, the fundraising continues with the THON dancers send-off and potluck dinner at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, in the Conference Center.  Non-dancers can revel in the spirit of philanthropy by purchasing apparel or making gifts online. T-shirts emblazoned with “PSNK THON” are available through Lauren Blum, student life coordinator, 724-334-6063 or ldb14@psu.edu via email. Donations can be made by visiting https://secure.imodules.com/s/1218/thon/thon.aspx?sid=1218&gid=1&pgid=671&cid=2344 online. Please be sure to designate the New Kensington campus, #75, for the credit.

For more on campus THON, contact Lauren Richards, ler5128@psu.edu or Nicki Thoma, nat5066@psu.edu via email.

DANCIN’ FOR THE KIDS
(Parody of words and music of the 1985 Live Aid video, “Dancin’ in the Streets,” performed by Mick Jagger and David Bowie, who collaborated on a cover of the 1964 song written by Mickey Stevenson and Marvin Gaye and performed by Martha and the Vandellas).

To view the Jagger-Bowie video,
http://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=dancing+in+the+street&mid=AE0862E2973B1A91104BAE0862E2973B1A91104B&view=detail&FORM=VIRE7 online.

OK, Penn State
University Park, New Kensington, York, Altoona, Schuylkill, Mont Alto

Callin' out around the state, are you ready for a brand new vid?
Winter's here and the time is right for dancin' for the kids.
Dancin' in State College (dancin' for the kids)
From all ‘cross Penn State (dancin' for the kids)
In Jordan Center

All we need is money, fightin’ cancer,
There'll be students everywhere
There'll be swingin' swayin', and records playin,
Dancin' for the kids

Oh it doesn't matter what you wear, just as long as you are there.
So twist and shout, boys and girls,
Raising funds, around the world

There'll be dancin', they're dancin' for the kids.
This is an invitation, for the Penn State nation,
Alumni can do what students did
There'll be laughin' singin', and music swingin'
Dancin' for the kids

New Kensington P.A., Beaver and Fayette now,
Don't forget the DuBois city,
On the streets of Shenango
Back in the Behrend College
It’s the kids we acknowledge

All we need is money, fightin’ cancer
There'll be students everywhere
There'll be swingin' swayin', and records playin,
Dancin' for the kids

Oh it doesn't matter what you wear, just as long as you are there.
So twist and shout, boys and girls,
Raising funds, around the world

They're dancin', dancin' for the kids
Way down in G.A., every day they're dancin' for the kids
Across the white and blue, THON and you
We're dancin  for the kids

ALUMNI CAN RECONNECT WITH UNIVERSITY AND CAMPUS
6:30 p.m., Monday, Feb. 20, Dingbats/Royal Gatherings, Pittsburgh Mills

People don't have to be an alumna or alumnus of Penn State New Kensington to belong to the Alle-Kiski Alumni Society.

Parents of a Penn State graduate or a current Penn State student are welcome to join. Penn State alumni who attended another campus but live in the Alle-Kiski Valley can stay connected to the University through the society, as are people who never attended Penn State but believe in its mission.

Based at Penn State New Kensington, the Alle-Kiski Society is the local chapter of the Penn State Alumni Association and represents the 7,000 Penn State alumni living in the Alle-Kiski Valley. The society engages in campus and community projects throughout the year, including social and fundraising events that benefit the society's endowed scholarship.

The spring fundraiser is the annual Bowl-a-thon, and it is scheduled from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 25, at WildLife Lanes in Lower Burrell. This is a family-fun event for students, parents, alumni, faculty, staff and friends of Penn State. The entry fee is $20 and includes three games and shoe rental. Four- or five-person teams may sign up, or individuals may sign up and be assigned to a short-handed team. The bowl-a-thon is the alumni group's major fundraiser in the spring, and the proceeds support the society’s endowed scholarship and campus projects. Lane sponsorships are available for $50 and $100.

New and recent Penn State graduates are encouraged to attend the monthly board meetings held at 6:30 p.m. on the third Monday of the month at Dingbats/Royal Gatherings in the Pittsburgh Mills mall.

The next meeting is Monday, Feb. 20. For information on the Alle-Kiski Alumni Society, call 724-334-6049, or uxw1@psu.edu via email or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Alumni/alumorg.htm online.

SAXOPHONIST LEE ROBINSON HEADLINES CAMPUS CELEBRATION
Noon, Monday, Feb. 6, Forum Theatre

Penn State New Kensington continues its celebration of Black History Month at noon on Monday, Feb. 6, with a performance by the Lee Robinson Jazz Quartet in the Forum Theatre.

Led by saxophonist Lee Robinson, the group’s sound runs the gamut from subtle and minimalist to dense and emotional. Robinson’s learning progression went from bass clarinet to tenor and soprano sax, oboe, flute and shanai, an East Indian reed instrument. He now concentrates on tenor and soprano saxophones, what he calls his "musical voices.”

The Black History Month celebration concludes at noon on Wednesday, Feb. 29, with a performance by Jabali Afrika in the Forum Theatre. The four musician’s afro-rock sound blends authentic African music with the modern styles. All events are free to the public.

For more information, contact Lauren Blum, student events coordinator, at ldb14@psu.edu or 724-334-6063.

SHENYU XU FROM NORTHEAST UNIVERSITY IN SHENYANG TO
TEACH TWO COURSES IN SPRING AND FALL
Art Exhibit in May    

A visiting scholar from China has joined the faculty at Penn State New Kensington for the 2012 spring and fall semesters.

Shenyu Xu, associate professor of art at Northeastern University in Shenyang, will teach art classes, exhibit her artwork, and give presentations at local high schools during her yearlong stay at the campus. The visit was arranged by Bud Gibbons, professor of visual arts at the New Kensington campus, and sponsored by a grant from the China Scholarship Council, a non-profit institution affiliated with the Ministry of Education in Beijing. The council provides financial assistance to Chinese citizens who want to study abroad and to the foreign citizens who want to study in China.

Xu is teaching a course about art and Chinese culture during each semester. She is teaming with Gibbons to teach another art course, Drawing and Painting. The works of students in the course will be exhibited in the art gallery in April.

“Professor Xu gives Penn State students the opportunity for cultural exchange through authentic Chinese art education right here on campus,” said Gibbons, a veteran of seven excursions to the Far East.

“Bud was instrumental in bringing Shenyu from her native China to share her amazing talent and expertise with our students,” said Arlene Hall, director of academic affairs at the campus.

Xu holds a bachelor’s degree in Chinese painting and a master’s degree in art and culture from the Luxun Academy of Fine Arts in Shenyang. She has written numerous book and articles on Chinese art.

In addition to her educator’s credentials, Xu is an accomplished artist and has exhibited throughout China. Emphasizing vivid colors, she works predominately with traditional Chinese paint colors on rice paper. Xu will display her works in the campus art gallery during May, the month usually reserved for Gibbons’ annual exhibit, “Paintings.” 

“Her paintings are extraordinary,” said Gibbons, who has painted around the world in places such as Tibet and Peru. “I am giving my spot so we can highlight her works.”

When she is not teaching or exhibiting, Xu will travel to area schools to talk about her experiences in China and her perceptions of America.

The campus’ collaboration with Shenyang goes back to 1995, when Xu Yong of Luxun Academy was a visiting professor at the campus. Yong is the uncle of Shenyu Xu. Three years later, Gibbons’ went to China as a visiting professor at Luxun Academy. In 2005, he exhibited the works of Luxun students in the art gallery. The following year, Gibbons headed a delegation of students, faculty, staff and alumni that toured Shenyang and Beijing.

In 2007, Gary Heberling, information sciences and technology program coordinator at the campus, was the guest lecturer at Northeastern University. He taught problem-based learning to graduate students who were working on issues related to designing a database for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. In the same year, Yafei Wang, an art professor at Northeastern, exhibited his paintings in the campus gallery. The connection to Northeastern continued in 2009 when its students displayed their art at the New Kensington campus.

Xu’s office is located in the Art Building, and she can be reached at szx2@psu.edu via email.

Shenyu Xu's "Drama Life: Back Stage,"Chinese painting colors on rice paper.

HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS AND ADULT LEARNERS CAN
RECEIVE ADMISSIONS DECISIONS ON-THE-SPOT
$50 Fee Waived

It is not too late to apply to Penn State New Kensington for fall. The campus' admissions office is holding Application Day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 20, for high school students and adult learners.

The New Kensington admissions staff will be on-hand to guide prospective students through the application process. Those who complete the application and designate the New Kensington campus as their first choice will receive a waiver for the $50 application fee.

Additionally, applicants to New Kensington may receive an admissions decision immediately if they bring a high school transcript and their SAT or ACT scores. Appointments are recommended, but not required. To reserve a spot, call 724-334-LION.

For other admission events, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions/admevents.htm online.

LOWER BURRELL ORGANIZATION ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR
CLARENCE JAMES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

Hightower Scholars Inc., a nonprofit organization that assists students with their preparation for a postsecondary education at a four-year college or university, is accepting applications for its annual Clarence James Memorial Scholarship.

Headquartered in Lower Burrell, the organization comprises members of the Hightower family who established the scholarship to provide financial assistance to a first-year African-American, Hispanic or American-Indian college student. The award can be used for books and supplies at any four-year college or university. The scholarship honors the memories of Clarence Graham and James Hightower, the late grandfathers of the organization's founders. Deadline for applications is March 1.

In 2001, the Hightower family created the Mittie B. Hightower Memorial Scholarship at Penn State New Kensington. The $1,500 award supports minority students at the campus. The current recipients are Raymone Thomas of New Kensington, a bachelor of science in nursing major, and Lydia Johnson of Monroeville, a radiological sciences major.

For more on all Hightower scholarships, visit http://www.hscholars.org/ online.

 AL, KIM, RYAN, JUSTIN AND ERIN ARE
A PART OF THE CAMPUS COMMUNITY

Penn State New Kensington was founded in 1958 after a study revealed a demand for higher education in the Alle-Kiski Valley. The Weber family of Lower Burrell personifies that study and validates the foresight of the University’s and local community leaders.

As alumni and friends, the Webers are affiliated with the New Kensington campus on various levels. Al Weber is the president of the campus advisory board. His wife, Kim, took courses at the campus for a year as a part of the curriculum of the Western Pennsylvania School of Nursing. Their three children, Ryan, Justin and Erin, are alumni, beginning their degree work at the New Kensington campus before completing their majors at the University Park campus.

“Penn State New Kensington offers a world-class education in our back yard,” said Al, who holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Gannon University. “It provides a hub for educational, cultural and athletic activities for campus students and the community at large.”

A vice president with Hefren-Tillotson Inc. and registered investment advisor, Al is active at the campus and in the community. He has been a member of the advisory board for five years and was elected to a two-year term as president in 2010. Under his leadership, the board raised a record $10,000 at its annual Chancellor’s Gala in October. The amount represented a 25 percent increase over the previous year and is earmarked for the board’s endowed scholarship at the campus. He also serves as guest lecturer in marketing and finance classes at the campus. In Lower Burrell, he chairs the Police Civil Service Commission and sits on the board of the Burrell Area Rotary Club. In addition, he served on the Parent Advisory committee of the Burrell School District.

“The role of the advisory board is to improve the educational and social experience of students, and to enhance the profile of the campus,” said Al, who grew up in New Kensington.

Kim is a native of Lower Burrell and a retired registered nurse. She grew up with the campus just up the hill and knows the value of its presence in the community, especially for her family.

“Penn State New Kensington was a great transition campus for all my children, from both a personal and educational standpoint," said Kim, who also volunteered her time for Burrell. “I felt that they all had a great experience at the campus.”

Erin took full advantage of staying home for the first two years. While matriculating at the campus, she was able to play two intercollegiate sports, basketball and softball, maintain membership on the Dean’s List, and work part-time. She earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary and kindergarten education in 2008.

“Living at home gave me the opportunity to adapt to college studies, develop a solid work ethic, and learn to multi-task,” said Erin, a first-grade teacher at Bell Avon Elementary School in the Kiski Area School District. "All of the experiences have assisted me in my career.”

Her brothers are equally successful in their professional endeavors. Ryan earned an economics degree in 2003 and is a financial advisor for Morgan Stanley in Miami. Justin graduated in 2007 with a mechanical engineering degree and is a sales engineer for Lufkin Industries in Leechburg, Pa.

Erin’s bond with the campus continues to grow. She has returned as a student in the master of education program. She will graduate in May with a master’s degree in Teaching and Curriculum.

MASTER OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
DEGREE PROGRAM BEGINS IN FALL

INFORMATION SESSIONS
Monday, Feb. 13; Thursday, Feb. 16; Monday, Feb. 27
6:00 p.m., Regional Learning Alliance, Cranberry, Pa.

Beginning in the fall, Penn State New Kensington will offer a Master of Business Administration degree, it was announced recently by Jan Orris, retiring director of continuing education.

The campus will partner with Penn State Erie, The Behrend College to offer the MBA at the Regional Learning Alliance in Cranberry, Pa.  A work-in-progress for 12 years, the program was officially approved in December.

“It means so much that alumni will finally be able to earn a Penn State MBA degree in the greater Pittsburgh region," said Orris, who will retire Feb. 3 after 15 years at the campus.

The curriculum emphasizes the development of planning and problem-solving skills.  Course work will focus on the practical application of theory to the business world, often enabling students to work with local organizations to fashion real solutions to real problems. 

The program will be offered in a blended delivery whereby students will meet face-to-face once per month with the remainder of the course online.  Each three-credit course will involve four class meetings per semester at the RLA with the remaining instruction delivered online. The proposed class time is 6:00 p.m. until 8:45 p.m. Depending on prior undergraduate courses, it will take approximately five to eight semesters to complete the program. This format is ideal for working adults who travel.  

A pet project of Orris, the Regional Learning Alliance was established in 2004 with the cooperation of educational institutions in the region. It offers a variety of degree programs and workforce training for adult and traditional students. Penn State New Kensington is a charter member of the alliance.

Three information sessions on the new program will be held February 13, 16, and 27, at the Regional Learning Alliance.

For more information about the program or to register for the upcoming information sessions, read our MBA Program Announcement.

“We should not be discouraged by his death but encouraged by his life. It would be a blessing to impact others the way he did." 
-- John Spadaro, Alle-Kiski Alumni Society

More than 100 Penn State New Kensington students, alumni and friends gathered at the campus Lion Shrine Jan. 24 for a candlelight vigil to remember Joe Paterno.

Guest speakers and impromptu speakers from the audience paid tribute to the legendary coach who passed away on Jan. 22. Message boards in the main lobby and in Café 780 were filled with words of support, which will be forwarded to the Paterno family.

The vigil began at 6 p.m. with the lighting of the candles, followed by the singing of the Penn State “Alma Mater” by Heather Lach, a New Kensington student. Kevin Snider, chancellor at the campus, opened the memorial with remarks about the influence of Paterno on generations of Penn State students.

“By all accounts we have lost more than just a coach. He was the symbol of a University so great that he was willing to commit to it for his entire career, so that academics could be emphasized in a successful Division I sports program,” said Snider, who has headed the campus for four years.  “While these past few months have reminded us that Joe was also a man, and as such, wasn't perfect all the time, his impact on Penn State, alumni, employees, students, and the public has been phenomenal.  And it is his extraordinary contributions that we need to focus on now.”

John Spadaro, a 1982 alumnus and board member of the Alle-Kiski Alumni Society, spoke of Paterno’s legacy and how he touched the lives of so many people in such a positive way, both on and off the football field.

“We should not be discouraged by his death but encouraged by his life,” said Spadaro, who attended the New Kensington campus before completing his degree at University Park. “It would be a blessing to impact others the way he did." 

Providing a campus student perspective, Myquan “Que” Harris-Moore, president of the Student Government Association at the campus, talked about Penn State as a family. Although the sophomore from Philadelphia never met Paterno, he is saddened by the loss of someone who means so much to the University.

“We are a family, and like everyone says, we are Penn State,” said Harris-Moore, who will continue his studies at University Park in the fall. “Joe was the best example of that.”

Ron “Bubba” Hileman, a former campus student and 1980 alumnus, had an up-close and personal relationship with Paterno. Hileman served as the football team’s equipment manager for many years and had daily meetings with the coach during the season. In addition to his reminisces about Paterno, Hileman suggested a way for Penn Staters and friends to honor Paterno’s legacy.

“Joe’s true story was that he made an impact,” said Hileman, a resident of Leechburg. “So my advice to you as students and alumni is to continue to make an impact.”

Following Hileman’s remarks, students and members of the local community shared their memories and thoughts about Paterno.

The vigil concluded with the singing of  “Amazing Grace” by Lach and Angie Fisher, administrative support assistant for Student Affairs.

After a public viewing, Paterno will be laid to rest Jan. 25, in a private funeral service. A public memorial service will held the next day in the Bryce Jordan Center.

For the KDKA-TV story and video, visit,
http://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2012/01/24/psu-branch-campuses-pay-tribute-to-paterno/ online.

For photos of the event, visit http://psnk.smugmug.com/ online.

PROGRAM FOR VIGIL AT CAMPUS LION SHRINE
Tuesday, January 24
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Lighting of the Candles

Alma Mater 
Heather Lach, student

Remarks:
Dr. Kevin Snider, Chancellor, Penn State New Kensington
John Spadaro, Alle-Kiski Society
Myquan “Que” Harris-Moore, President, Student Government Association
Ron "Bubba" Hileman, Alumnus and former Equipment Manager

Community  Remembrances

Amazing Grace
Heather Lach, student
Angie Fisher, Administrative Support Assistant, Student Affairs

JAN ORRIS SERVED CAMPUS FOR 15 YEARS

Jan Orris, director of continuing education at Penn State New Kensington, will retire Feb. 3 after 15 years at the post. In his position, he was responsible for credit and noncredit programming, on-site business and industry training, and youth activities.

Working the field of higher education for more than 30 years, Orris joined the campus community in 1997 after serving at Point Park University, Seton Hill University, and Westmoreland County Community College. Under his leadership, the continuing education offerings expanded to include the Organizational Leadership program that began in 2005 and the MBA program that begins in the fall.

Known by the acronym OLEAD, Organizational Leadership is a bachelor's degree program that is designed to meet the needs of adult learners, nontraditional students who are at least 24-years old. The program draws on many disciplines of the liberal arts to focus on issues that all leaders face regarding work and employment issues. Under Orris' direction, New Kensington leads all Penn State commonwealth campuses with 48 students enrolled in the program. In addition to the on-campus program, OLEAD is offered at three other locations: Westmoreland County Community College in Youngwood, Regional Learning Alliance in Cranberry, and Pittsburgh Mills in Frazier. In 2010, Orris received the "Good to Great Enrollment Driver" award for his work in recruiting adult learners for the Organizational Leadership program.

The MBA program is Orris’ farewell gift to the campus. A work-in-progress for 12 years, the program was officially approved in December, nearly six weeks before his retirement. The campus will partner with Penn State Erie, The Behrend College to offer the MBA degree at the Regional Learning Alliance in Cranberry, Pa.

“It is so satisfying to see adult students completing their OLEAD degrees after many years,” said Orris, who has served on the Continuing Education Association of Pennsylvania board since its inception in 1989. “It means so much that Penn State alums will finally be able to earn their MBA degree at the Regional Learning Alliance."

A pet project of Orris, the alliance was established in 2004 with the cooperation of educational institutions in the region. It offers a variety of degree programs and workforce training for adult and traditional students. Penn State New Kensington is a charter member of the alliance.

“Dr. Orris was a great colleague and I will certainly miss his professionalism, dedication to Penn State and his wit,” said Arlene Hall, diretcior of academic affairs at the campus. “Jan worked tirelessly to provide the highest quality programming for individuals, corporations and service agencies within our region.”

Orris holds a doctorate degree in higher education administration from the University of Pittsburgh. He served on the Continuing Education Association Board of Pennsylvania (CEA/PA) since its inception in 1989, including four terms as president. The Greensburg resident was the founder of the Pittsburgh chapter of CEA/PA which comprises colleges and universities in the western region of the state.

“I have been fortunate to work with the best continuing education team on the planet,” said Orris, whose hobbies include reading and travelling. “I look forward to the next part of my journey. I already have plans to travel to the Keys and Tortola.”

The campus will honor Orris’ service to Penn State at a retirement luncheon that is slated for noon, Friday, Feb. 3, in the Conference Center. Guests are asked to RSVP to Sharon Levett, sql1@psu.edu or 724-334-6012 or Beth Nury, bxn10@psu.edu or 724-334-6011.

For more about Continuing Education programs at the campus, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/CE/programs.htm online.

JOE MANDAK, ERIN PRAGER, ANDREW HOLODNIK, KELSIE NURY
TO REPRESENT CAMPUS AT ANNUAL DANCE MARTHON

“The results are in…dim the lights... here we go…these are Penn State New Kensington’s THON dancers…let’s go!”

That’s how “American Idol” host Ryan Seacrest would introduce Joe Mandak, Erin Prager, Andrew Holodnik and Kelsie Nury, this year’s campus representatives at the annual Penn State Interfraternity Council/ Panhellenic Dance Marathon, affectionately known as THON.

The four terpsichoreans were chosen by an interview committee and the selections were based on participation in campus THON activities that began in September-- canning hours, meetings attended, and raising at least $1,000 apiece. In Greek mythology, Terpsichore was the muse of dancing.

They will join more than 700 Penn State students from all the campuses at the Bryce Jordan Center on Penn State's University Park campus during the 46-hour, no sitting, no sleeping marathon, Feb. 17-19. All money raised through the dance marathon directly benefit the Four Diamonds Fund at the Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital.

Mandak is senior corporate communications major from New Kensington. Prager is a senior business administration major from Natrona Heights. Holodnik is a senior administration of justice major from Penn Hills. Nury is a freshman education major from Lower Burrell.
 
The interview committee comprised nine members from the campus: Kevin Snider, chancellor; Tom Wilczek, advisory board; Elaine Zarichnak, nurse; Jim Shields, career services coordinator; Que Harris-Moore, student government president;  Kyle Tomer, alumnus and 2009 dancer; Nicole Thoma, student and 2011 THON dancer; Lauren Richards, THON chair; and Lauren Blum, student life coordinator.

The number of dancers going to University Park from each campus is based on the amount of money raised by the campus the previous year. In 2011, New Kensington students raised $52,392, shattering the campus record of $23,000 set in 2010. Since 2002, the campus has collected more than $162,000 for the charity.

The fundraising continues with the final canning weekend, Feb. 10-12, and the THON dancers send-off, a potluck dinner at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, in the Conference Center. Non-dancers can revel in the spirit of philanthropy by purchasing apparel or making gifts online. T-shirts emblazoned with “PSNK THON” are available through Lauren Blum, student life coordinator, 724-334-6063 or ldb14@psu.edu via email. Donations can be made by visiting https://secure.imodules.com/s/1218/thon/thon.aspx?sid=1218&gid=1&pgid=671&cid=2344 online. Please be sure to designate the New Kensington campus, #75, for the credit.

For more on campus THON, contact Lauren Richards, ler5128@psu.edu or Nicki Thoma, nat5066@psu.edu via email.

FITNESS CENTER, WOMEN'S LOCKER ROOM,
CARDIOVACULAR ROOM, PILATES/YOGA STUDIO

With the support of an eclectic group of donors, the second phase of athletic facilities upgrades has been completed. According to Dave Murray, director of athletics at the campus, the Athletics Center-- home to the basketball, volleyball, and wrestling teams--received the most attention. Improvements included refurbishing the Fitness Center, moving the women’s locker room upstairs and giving it a complete makeover, renovating the downstairs room to make way for cardiovascular equipment, and setting up a pilates/yoga studio. In addition to the indoor amenities, an artificial putting green was installed outside the Athletics Center.

“Alumni and friends have really rallied around our athletics projects,” said Murray, who joined the campus in 2009. “Our students are taking full advantage of the new facilities.”

The Fitness Center houses the heavy weight room and the women’s locker room. The weight room was expanded and currently features selectorized (or pin) weight machines, a squat rack, free weights, and spinner bikes. The locker room was eviscerated and converted into Lady Lions and visitor dressing areas with polished wood lockers, resurfaced floors, freshly painted walls, and rugs with the Penn State athletics symbol--a stylized rendition of the Nittany Lion head in an oval frame--gracing both rooms. The cardiovascular room was moved to its own area on the lower level of the Athletics Center. A rubber floor was installed and light machines, treadmills and exercise bikes were added to give the room the look of a commercial fitness center. The new Pilates/Yoga Studio is a component of the wrestling room that was built last year.

Geared to both students and athletes at the campus, the enhancements were funded by gifts from Roger and Barbara Claypoole, Tad Potter’s Rockwell Family Foundation, Debbie Turnberger’s Honkus-Zollinger Charitable Foundation, and the campus-based Alle-Kiski Alumni Society.

Claypoole’s $10,000 donation went to improving the Fitness Center. The $10,000 Honkus-Zollinger funds were earmarked for the wrestling program and the golf team. The $10,000 Alle-Kiski Alumni Society donation supported the new cardiovascular room. Rockwell’s $12,000 gift provided seed money to launch the wrestling program, and helped to upgrade the women’s locker room. A portion of the Rockwell funds are set aside for the makeover of the men’s locker room.

Phase three of the athletics facilities’ upgrades is currently underway and is expected to be completed by the summer. Improvements include: installing an irrigation system and resurfacing the soccer field; refurbishing the men’s locker room; erecting a driving and chipping cage for golf; and constructing three new offices. Plans for the fourth phase are expected to feature the building of a softball field on campus.

Improving athletics is one of the objectives of the campus’ “For the Future” campaign, a University-wide effort to raise $2 billion by June 2014. The campus is responsible for $3 million of the total. Other objectives reflect the most critical needs for revitalization of our campus, including building a campus of the future that enriches the experiences of students beyond the classroom, and serves the Alle-Kiski Valley community.

Women's locker room.

 
Heavy weight room.                                                           Circuit training room.

ART, CUISINE, JAZZ, AFRO-ROCK

The celebration of Black History Month at Penn State New Kensington features, art, cuisine, jazz, and African rhythms throughout February.

The multimedia exhibit showcasing the works of Women of Vision Inc., a nonprofit women's art collective based in Pittsburgh, opened in January and runs through Feb. 24. Quilts, drawings, photographs, prints and paintings are represented in the 36-piece display created by African-American artists. The gallery is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and noon to 5 p.m. weekends.

A buffet-style luncheon featuring international cuisine is set for noon on Monday, Jan. 30, in Café 780.  The menu includes five African dishes.

The Lee Robinson Jazz Quartet visits the campus at noon on Monday, Feb. 6.  Led by saxophonist Lee Robinson, the group’s sound runs the gamut from subtle and minimalist to dense and emotional.

The Black History Month celebration concludes at noon on Wednesday, Feb. 29, with a performance by Jabali Afrika in the Forum Theatre. The four musicians' afro-rock sound blends authentic African music with modern styles.

All events are free to the public. For more information, contact Lauren Blum, student events coordinator, at ldb14@psu.edu or 724-334-6063.

IN-DEPTH LOOK AT THE FAFSA FORM
6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 1, Conference Center
RSVP: 724-334-LION

The challenge of filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will be explained at Penn State New Kensington's financial aid overview.

Geared to prospective students and parents, "Financial Aid 101" is set for 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 1, in the campus' Conference Center. Seminar participants get an in-depth look at the FAFSA and receive an explanation of the logic behind the questions. Instructors will provide tips on how to complete the form from a home computer. In addition, the admissions staff will review the financial aid process, explain how financial aid awards are determined, and discuss the available types of financial aid.

The FAFSA form is the first step in the financial aid application process. Families need to complete it to apply for federal student financial aid, such as the Pell Grant, student loans and college work-study. Most states and schools use FAFSA information to award their financial aid. Penn State recommends that the FAFSA be completed by Feb. 15 for fall enrollment.

The event is sponsored by the offices of admissions and financial aid at Penn State New Kensington. Light refreshments will be served.

To register for the workshop, call 724-334-LION or 888-968-PAWS or visit the Admissions Events page online.

PENN STATE CAREER DAYS
11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 6 and 7, Bryce Jordan Center

WESTPACS JOB FAIR
10;00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, March 28, Monroeville Convention Center

Registration: 724-334-6065

The Office of Career Services at Penn State New Kensington has scheduled two job fairs -- Penn State Spring Career Days and Western Pennsylvania Career Services Association (WestPACS) -- to help recent and soon-to-be graduates get started on a career.

Employers will be interviewing for full-time positions, internships and summer jobs at both events. The Spring Career Days are from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday and Tuesday, Feb. 6 and 7, in the Bryce Jordan Center at the University Park campus. WestPACS is set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday, March 28, at the Monroeville Convention Center on Route 22 in Monroeville, Pa.

The job events are open to current students and graduates of two- and four-year programs. Pre-registration for all events can be made by contacting Jim Shields at xjs8@psu.edu or 724-334-6065.

For more on Career Services, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentServices/CareerServices/careers.htm online.

THIRD CONSECUTIVE CROWN FOR SALTSBURG PREP SCHOOL
Burrell and Kiski Area Tie for Second

The Kiski School, a college preparatory boarding school in Saltsburg, Pa., captured its third consecutive championship of the StrongLand Chamber of Commerce Math League competition Jan. 12 at Penn State New Kensington.

Kiski School compiled 95 points to pull away from Burrell High School and Kiski Area High School who tied for runner-up honors with 83 points each. The two-day competition, spread out over the fall and spring semesters, features more than 100 students from 8 area high schools answering mathematical questions.

Sponsored by the StrongLand Chamber of Commerce's Educational Committee, the annual competition brings together students from Burrell, Ford City, Freeport, Kiski Area, Kiski School, Kittanning, Leechburg and Valley high schools and gives them the chance to go head-to-head with each other in an academic competition. Each school has three teams of five students, competing against all the other teams in each round. Students answer two sets of eight questions. They are allowed 25 minutes to answer each set. The questions in algebra, geometry and other areas of mathematics are developed by David Wells, associate professor of mathematics at Penn State New Kensington.

At the end of the first round, the leaderboard was crowded as a mere six points separated the first- and third-place teams. Kiski School topped the charts with 41 points followed closely by Kiski Area with 36 points, and Burrell at 35 points.

"The competition provides students with a positive mathematical experience," said Wells, author of two books on mathematics contests. "It exposes them to some challenging problems not normally encountered in the classroom and gives them an opportunity to interact with other students who enjoy mathematics."

Team trophies went to the top three schools and MVP awards were given to the top individual of each team. Individually, Kelly Kuzemchak, a senior at Kiski Area, defended  her medalist title with 26 points.

For additional information, contact Wells at 724-334-6749 or dmw6@psu.edu.

ALLE-KISKI ALUMNI SOCIETY'S SPRING FUNDRAISER
Date: 1:00-4:00 p.m., Sunday, March 25
Place: WildLife Lanes, Lower Burrell, Pa.
Registration: $20 per person
Sponsorships: $50-Nittany Lion; $100-Big Ten
Contact: John Spadaro, 724-337-8536

Registration and sponsorship forms for the alumni society's tenth annual Alumni Bowl-a-thon are available on the Penn State New Kensington Website.

Sponsored by the Alle-Kiski Society, the Bowl-a-thon is slated for 1 to 4 p.m., Sunday, March 25, at Wildlife Lanes in Lower Burrell, Pa. This is a family-fun event for students, parents, alumni, faculty, staff and friends of Penn State. The entry fee is $20 and includes three games and shoe rental. Four- or five-person teams may sign up, or individuals may sign up and be assigned to a short-handed team.

The bowl-a-thon is the alumni group's major fundraiser in the spring, and the proceeds support the society’s endowed scholarship and campus projects. Lane sponsorships are available for $50 and $100.

For information, call John Spadaro, 724-337-8536.

For more about the Alle-Kiski Alumni Society, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Alumni/alumorg.htm

BOWL-A-THON REGISTRATION FORM
ALLE-KISKI SOCIETY OF THE PENN STATE ALUMNI  ASSOCIATION

Date: Sunday, March 25, 2012
Time:  1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Place: WildLife Lanes, Lower Burrell, Pa.
Cost: $20 per person (includes three games of bowling and shoe rental)
Contact: John Spadaro, 724-337-8536
Registration:  Mail the registration form below with your check payable to: AKS – PSAA
       
*************************************************************
The $20 registration fee per person must accompany this form.  Please complete one form per person.  (Please Print)

Name:_______________________________ Work Phone:______________

Address:_____________________________ Home Phone:______________

City:____________________________State:_______  Zip Code:_________

Team Name:__________________________________________________________

Team Members:______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

*************************************************************
Mail to:
Mr. John Spadaro
508 Greenridge Road
New Kensington, PA 15068

Registration Deadline: Friday, March 9, 2012

WAIVER:  In consideration of acceptance of this form, I hereby, for myself, my administrators, my heirs and assigns, waive and release any and all rights and claims for damages I have against the organizers, sponsors, their associates, and representatives.

Signature: ________________________________________ Date: _________________

BOWL-A-THON SPONSORSHIP FORM
ALLE-KISKI SOCIETY OF THE PENN STATE ALUMNI  ASSOCIATION

Date: Sunday, March 25, 2012
Time:  1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Place: WildLife Lanes, Lower Burrell, Pa.

$50 per lane – Nittany Lion Sponsorship
--Company name displayed on sponsorship board
--Company name displayed on scoring monitor
--Company name in Bowl-A-Thon program

$100 per lane – Big Ten Sponsorship
--Company name displayed on sponsorship board
--Company name displayed on scoring monitor
--Company name in Bowl-A-Thon program
--Inclusion in live announcements during event
--Inclusion on the Penn State New Kensington website
--Inclusion on the Penn State New Kensington newswire service
(great source of advertisement to students and parents)

Your contribution is tax deductible
Sponsorship Form:  -- Please make checks payable to AKS-PSAA
Name: _______________________________________________________
Company Name:  ______________________________________________
Address: _____________________________________________________
City: _________________________ State: __________ Zip Code: _______
Mail to:   
John Spadaro
508 Greenridge Road
New Kensington, PA 15068

Sponsorship deadline --- Friday, March 9, 2012

LETTER TO ALUMNI AND FRIENDS FROM AKS BOARD

The Alle-Kiski Society of the Penn State Alumni Association represents more than 7,000 alumni living in the Alle-Kiski Valley. Our mission is to represent all current and former students and friends of Penn State through interaction and service to improve the New Kensington campus and the University. The society develops, promotes and supports the campus and enhances communication between students, alumni, friends, and the University. We are responsible for the development of programs, both educational and recreational to further strengthen our relationship with the campus.

As a way of raising funds, the society is sponsoring our 10th annual Bowl-A-Thon from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 25, 2012, at the Wildlife Lanes in Lower Burrell. We are asking you to support this event by sponsoring a lane. As a $50 lane sponsor, your company’s name will be prominently displayed during the event, and you will be included in the event program that each bowler will receive.  As a $100 lane sponsor, in addition, you will be included in live announcements throughout the event, on the campus website and newswire service.  If you are interested in supporting this event, please complete the enclosed form and mail it to:

Mr. John Spadaro
508 Greenridge Road
New Kensington, PA 15068

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact John Spadaro at 724 337-8536.  We thank you in advance for your support.

Sincerely,

Board of Directors
Alle-Kiski Society of the Penn State Alumni Association

THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT
of the
ALLE-KISKI ALUMNI SOCIETY
and
PENN STATE NEW KENSINGTON

REMEMBERING MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

“MAKE IT A DAY ON, NOT A DAY OFF”
Penn State New Kesnington, Beaver, DuBois, Fayette, Greater Allegheny, and Shenango
Community Service Projects

"A CELEBRATION OF UNITY"
Campus, Community, Local Businesses, Neighborhood Churches
Lighting of the Unity Candle

Unity Day Photos: http://psnk.smugmug.com/ online

In honor of the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr., student volunteers from Penn State New Kensington and other Penn State campuses in western Pennsylvania took on community service projects in the local area.  Billed as “Make it a Day On, Not a Day Off,” the activities were a part of the University’s celebration of King’s birthday. Jan. 16 was a federal holiday and there were no classes that day.

The multi-campus community service project is an annual event that moves around the region. New Kensington was the host campus this year. Ten New Kensington students—Myquan Harris-Moore, Emily McDaniel, Kelsie Nury, Tansey Ochs, Courtney Rockwell, Grant Schoenfelder, Andrew Sheffler, Dan Sheffler, Amethyst Vozar and Kevin Turner--along with their counterparts from the Penn State campuses of Beaver, DuBois, Fayette, Greater Allegheny, and Shenango,  travelled in groups to various community organizations in the area. The students did volunteer work at Habitat for Humanity Restore in New Kensington, Valley Community Services in Cheswick, Alle-Kiski Valley Historical Society in Tarentum, Hope Center in Tarentum, Family Services of Western Pennsylvania in Pittsburgh, and Tri-City Life Center in Lower Burrell. Lauren Blum, student life coordinator at Penn State New Kensington, developed the service project plan for the campuses.

“Penn State encourages the community service aspect of the holiday," said Blum, who is working on a master's degree in student affairs at Indiana University of Pennsylvania “Students volunteered to give up their day off at school to assist the organizations with cleaning, painting, organizing--whatever needed to be done.”

Habitat ReStores are outlets that accept donated goods for resale. The New Kensington ReStore focuses on home improvement goods -- furniture, home accessories, building materials and appliances. These donated goods are sold to the general public at a fraction of the retail price to help local affiliates fund the construction of Habitat homes within their communities. Campus volunteers reorganized a section of the store so additional items can be displayed for sale.

The Historical Society runs the Hetitage Museum that celebrates the cultural, industrial, and ethnic heritage of the Allegheny and Kiskiminetas river valleys in southwestern Pennsylvania. Students rearranged exhibits to open up space for artifacts that have been in storage for some time.

The celebration of the life of and works of King continued the next day when students, faculty and staff came together with Hightower Scholars and the community, local businesses and neighborhood churches. "A Celebration of Unity" featured an information fair on volunteering at non-profit organizations, a panel discussion on political engagement by minority populations, a potluck dinner, and a special documentary and musical performance by Linda Brown, organist for Mt. Calvary Church. The highlight of the evening was the lighting of unity candle by members of the campus, community, local businesses and neighborhood churches.

Diane Hightower, executive director of Hightower Scholars -- a nonprofit organization, and Theresa Bonk, director of student affairs at the campus, developed the multimedia program for the 83rd anniversary of King's birth. Kevin Snider, chancellor at the New Kensington campus, delivered the opening remarks. Valerie McDonald Roberts, manager of the Department of Real Estate for Allegheny County, moderated the panel discussion. Non-profit groups at the fair included United Way of Westmoreland County, Alle-Kiski Hope Center, American Red Cross, Westmoreland County Food Bank and Faith in Action.

For photos of the Unity Day celebration, visit http://psnk.smugmug.com/ online.

For more information, contact Lauren Blum at 724-334-6063 or ldb14@psu.edu via email.

Liz Hays of the Valley News Dispatch, Thom King of Hightower Scholars, and Mitch Nichols of Bibleway Church
were members of the panel that discussed "Political Engagement of Minority Populations."

UNITY DAY
Tuesday, Jan. 17, Conference Center

Volunteer and Non-Profit  Organization Information Fair
2:00-4:00 p.m., Theatre Llobby, Front Lobby

"Political Engagement and Minority Populations" Panel Discussion 
4:00-5:00 p.m., Art Gallery

"Celebration of Unity" Potluck Dinner
5:00-6:30 p.m., Conference Center

Penn State New Kensington and Hightower Scholars Inc, in conjunction with the local church community, will join together on Tuesday, Jan. 17, to honor the life of Martin Luther King Jr.

"Unity Day" will feature an information fair, panel discussion, dinner and a community presentation. The highlight of the evening will be the lighting of the unity candle by members of the campus, community, local businesses and neighborhood churches. All events are held at the New Kensington campus on State Route 780 in Upper Burrell Township.

Diane Hightower, executive director of Hightower Scholars, a nonprofit organization, and Theresa Bonk, director of student affairs at the campus, developed a multi-media program for the 82nd anniversary of King's birth. Kevin Snider, chancellor at the New Kensington campus, will deliver the opening remarks. Community service and community partnerships are the cornerstone of Snider’s vision to make the Alle-Kiski Valley an even better place to live, work and learn.

The celebration will begin at 2 p.m. with the "Volunteers and Non-profit Organization Information Fair" in the theatre and front lobbies at the campus. Non-profits will talk about volunteer opportunities for the local community. Organizations at the fair include United Way of Westmoreland County, Alle-Kiski Hope Center, American Red Cross, Westmoreland County Food Bank and Faith in Action.

Following the fair at 4 p.m. will be the panel discussion, “Political Engagement of Minority Populations” in the campus art gallery. The panel features Dana Brown, executive director of PA Center for Women, Politics and Public Safety at Chatham University; Mitch Nichols, pastor of Bibleway Christian Fellowship Church, faculty member of Geneva College, and TV host of “A Nichols Worth;” Craig Hammond, assistant professor of history at Penn State New Kensington; Thom King, member of New Kensington-Arnold School District; and Liz Hayes, reporter for the Valley News Dispatch. The moderator is Valerie McDonald Roberts, manager of the Department of Real Estate for Allegheny County.

The “Celebration of Unity” begins at 5 p.m. in the Conference Center and features the lighting of the unity candle and a potluck fellowship dinner. Guests are asked to bring a covered dish that can feed 10-15 people.

All events are free to the public. Attendees are encouraged to R.S.V.P. for the dinner at 724-334-6062.

Headquartered in Lower Burrell, Pa., Hightower Scholars assists students with their preparation for a postsecondary education at a college or university. The campus scholarship, Mittie B. Hightower Memorial Scholarship, was established to support a minority student majoring in allied health fields or science programs. The current recipients are Raymone Thomas, a nursing major, and Lydia Johnson, a radiological sciences major.

For more on Hightower Scholars, visit http://www.hscholars.org/ online.

UNITY DAY PROGRAM
All events are free and open to the public. 
Please RSVP for the fellowship dinner, 724-334-6062

“Volunteer and Non-Profit Organization Information Fair”
2:00 – 4:00 p.m.; Theatre and Upper Lobbies

PARTICIPATING ORGANIZATIONS:
United Way of Westmoreland County
YMCA
American Red Cross
Westmoreland County Food Bank
Faith in Action
Rotoract of PSNK
THON
AK Valley Heritage Museum
Alle-Kiski Hope Center

“Political Engagement of Minority Populations” Panel Discussion
4:00-5:00 p.m., Art Gallery

WELCOME AND OPENING REMARKS: Dr. Kevin Snider, Chancellor Penn State New Kensington

INTRODUCTIONS: Theresa Bonk, Director of Student Affairs

MODERATOR’S REMARKS: Valerie McDonald Roberts, Executive Director,
Department of Real estate, Allegheny County

PANELISTS:
Dana Brown, Director of the PA Center for Women, Politics and Public Safety, Chatham University
Elizabeth Hayes, Journalist, Valley News Dispatch
Dr. Mitch Nickols, Pastor, Bibleway Church, Faculty, Geneva College
Thom King, Former Director, New Kensington-Arnold School Board
Dr. John C. Hammond, Assistant Professor of History, Penn State New Kensington

QUESTION AND ANSWER PERIOD

CLOSING REMARKS: Theresa Bonk

“Celebration of Unity”
5:00-6:30 p.m., Conference Center

WELCOME: Dr. Snider

REMARKS:  Diane Hightower , Executive Director, Hightower Scholars Inc; Dean of Students, Westmoreland County Community College

POEM READING: Hannah McBean, Author and Poet, Adult Student, OLEAD program, Penn State New Kensington resident

INVOCATION

DINNER

CANDLE LIGHTING CEREMONY
Candle 1 – Dr. Kevin Snider
Candle 2 -  Hightower Scholar
Candle 3 – Monsignor Gaston, Pastor, St Margaret Mary Catholic Church
Candle 4 – Myquan Harris-Moore, SGA President, Penn State New Kensington
Candle 5- Westmoreland County Community College Student
Candle 6 - Community Representative

SPECIAL PRESENTATION:
Documentary and Musical Performance - Linda Brown, Organist, Mt. Calvary Church

CLOSING REMARKS – Diane Hightower

PLUM NATIVE ESTABLISHES
"SHAFFER FAMILY TRUSTEE MATCHING SCHOLARSHIP"

Former Penn State New Kensington student Suzette Schultz recently pledged $50,000 to create the Shaffer Family Trustee Matching Scholarship at the campus.

Schultz’s gift establishes the 11th trustee matching scholarship at the campus. Through the matching scholarship program, developed in 2002 by the Penn State Board of Trustees, donors become partners with the University in supporting students. The annual spendable income on an endowed scholarship, which averages 5 percent, is matched by the University and allows donors to make the most of their philanthropic dollars.

“Penn State set me on the path to a rewarding career, allowing me the ability to give back to the community,” Schultz said. “Creating a scholarship ensures continued financial support to students for many years to come.  In a small way, I hope to help other students attain their dream of getting a college education as a springboard to a rewarding working career.”

Undergraduates and incoming freshmen at the New Kensington campus are eligible for the Shaffer scholarship. As per the donor’s wishes, graduates of Plum High School will be given first preference. Schultz is a native of Plum and a graduate of the high school.

"Suzette’s gift is a huge benefit to campus students, and we are grateful for her generosity," said Donna Speer, director of development. "The scholarship will help many students who otherwise might not have the chance to go to Penn State and achieve their dreams and life goals."

During the past academic year, 100 Penn State New Kensington students benefited from the generosity of alumni and friends of the campus. The recipients received a total of $160,000, an average of $1,600 per scholarship.

Schultz has a long history of philanthropic activity at Penn State, with the New Kensington campus and the College of Engineering as the major beneficiaries of her gifts. Her family’s Penn State bloodline runs through the New Kensington and University Park campuses. Schultz attended New Kensington before earning bachelor’s degrees in chemical engineering and chemistry at University Park. Her brother, David Shaffer, took the same route in earning his bachelor’s degree. Her daughter, Katherine Schultz, is a senior at University Park.

“Attending the New Kensington campus was a great way to start my college education--small class sizes, lots of support, and a caring staff,” Schultz said.  “In addition, it allowed me the opportunity to live at home and work part time." 

A resident of Thornton, Pennsylvania, located 36 miles west of Philadelphia, Schultz is a senior project manager for AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals. As a part of its employee program, AstraZeneca is matching Schultz’s initial pledge of $25,000.

In addition to commitments to Penn State, Schultz is active in the community. She is the current president of Girls Inc. of Delaware, a nonprofit organization that encourage girls to master physical, intellectual and emotional challenges through research-based initiatives. The programs address many issues such as math and science education and sports participation.  She is past president of the Delaware Valley Section of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers and secretary of the Wilmington section.

SPRING ACTIVITIES RAISE MONEY TO FIGHT CHILDHOOD CANCER
Jan. 18 - "Pie Your Professor”
Jan. 20-22 - Canning Weekend
Community Market Penn Hills, Community Market Natrona Heights, Community Market Fox Chapel,
Community Market Lower Burrell, Shop 'n Save Route 286, Wal-Mart Natrona Heights
Feb. 10-12 - Canning Weekend
Feb. 16 - "Thon Dancers Send-off," Potluck Dinner
Feb. 17-19 - THON,  Penn State Interfraternity Council/ Panhellenic Dance Marathon

With less than a month before the super bowl of fundraising events, the engine of the Penn State New Kensington fundraising machine is revving up with a series of activities that power THON, aka the Penn State Interfraternity Council/ Panhellenic Dance Marathon.

The campus THON committee, headed by Lauren Richards, is sponsoring a series of events in January and February to benefit the University-wide event that benefits the Four Diamonds Fund at the Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital, whose goal is to fight childhood cancer. THON culminates at Penn State University Park with a 46-hour, no sitting, no sleeping marathon from Feb. 17-19. Over the next four weeks, campus students will be canning outside various businesses in the region to raise money for what is believed to be the largest student-run philanthropy in the world.

Lauren Richards, an information sciences and technology major, has set a campus goal of $60,000, the most ambitious in campus history. Last year, students set a goal of $40,000 and shattered the campus record by raising $52,392, eclipsing the previous record of $23,000 set in 2010. Since 2002, the campus has collected more than $162,000 for the charity.

The fundraising cycle cranked up during the fall semester with two canning weekends, a zumba night and a spaghetti dinner. The spring semester opens with a “Pie Your Professor” event and continues with two more canning weekends, Jan. 20-22 (Community Market Penn Hills, Community Market Natrona Heights, Community Market Fox Chapel, Community Market Lower Burrell, Shop 'n Save Route 286, Wal-Mart Natrona Heights) and Feb. 10-12. The Thon dancers send-off, a potluck dinner, is set for 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, in the Conference Center.

In addition to fundraising, the committee is tasked to choose four students who will represent the campus as dancers at the University Park event. Dancers are nominated by the members of the campus community, and the nominees are winnowed by meeting certain eligibility requirements, including the extent of their participation in Thon events. Seven students made it through the nominating process and will be interviewed Jan. 19, and the winning dancers will be announced the following week. The number of dancers going to University Park from each campus is based on the amount of money raised by the campus the previous year. The selection of campus dancers will be based on canning hours, meetings attended, and raising at least $1,000 apiece.

Non-dancers can revel in the spirit of philanthropy by purchasing apparel or making gifts online. T-shirts emblazoned with “PSNK THON” are available through Lauren Blum, student life coordinator, 724-334-6063 or ldb14@psu.edu via email. Donations can be made by visiting https://secure.imodules.com/s/1218/thon/thon.aspx?sid=1218&gid=1&pgid=671&cid=2344 online. Please be sure to designate the New Kensington campus, #75, for the credit.

For more on campus Thon, contact Lauren Richards, ler5128@psu.edu or Nicki Thoma, nat5066@psu.edu via email.

ADMISSIONS EVENT FOR PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS:
HIGH SCHOOL AND ADULT LEARNERS
Date: 8:45 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 25
Place: Conference Center
Amenities: Free lunch
Contact: Admissions Office, 724-334-LION or 888-968-PAWS

Get a glimpse of college life first-hand at the Penn State New Kensington campus from 8:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 25, as a part of the "Be a Penn State Student for a Day" program.

High school students and adult learners can sit in on college classes, interact with current students and take in the campus' atmosphere. Participants will learn about admissions requirements and the financial aid process. Attendees can enjoy a free lunch in Cafe 780.

The next Spend a Day events are Feb. 29 and March 28.To reserve a spot, call 724-334-LION or 888-968-PAWS.
For more on admissions events, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions/admevents.htm?cn11 online.

NEW KENSINGTON ON TRACK TO REACH ITS GOAL
More than two years remaining for
"For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students"
Campus Objectives: Create educational, cultural, and economic opportunities for the region

Giving Information:
Donna Speer, Director of Development, 724-334-6057, dms46@psu.edu via email.

Giving Online:
https://secure.imodules.com/s/1218/index.aspx?sid=1218&gid=1&pgid=658&cid=2321 
(designate"Penn State New Kensington Future Fund")

As Penn State New Kensington continues the public phase of its fundraising campaign, "For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students," it reached its second milestone, the $2 million mark, in December. The campaign is a University-wide effort to raise $2 billion by June 2014. New Kensington is responsible for $3 million of the total.

"With two and a half years remaining in the campaign, we have raised sixty-six percent of our total,” said Donna Speer, New Kensington's director of development. “We are on track to reach our goal."

The campus campaign's objectives are designed to create educational, cultural, and economic opportunities for the region, specifically the Alle-Kiski Valley community. The main objective is to build a campus of the future that enriches the experiences of students beyond the classroom.

“Keeping a Penn State education affordable for families of modest means by increasing scholarship support is the campaign’s top priority," said Mardelle Kopnicky, co-chair of the campus campaign. “At its heart, this is a campaign for Penn State students—to enable the next generation, and all the succeeding generations, of our graduates to realize their full potential as individuals to sustain their families, advance their professions, and contribute to our country’s strength. “

For more information on the campus campaign, contact Donna Speer, director of development, 724-334-6057 or
dms46@psu.edu via email.

To give online,
https://secure.imodules.com/s/1218/index.aspx?sid=1218&gid=1&pgid=658&cid=232 
(Please designate "Penn State New Kensington Future Fund")

CAMPAIGN OBJECTVES
Ensuring student access and opportunity through scholarship support is one of the objectives for the overall campaign. The five key objectives of the campus campaign mirror those of the University's campaign. They are:

-- Ensure Student Opportunity: Students with the ability and ambition to attend Penn State will have this opportunity through scholarship support.

-- Enriching the Student Experience: Students will thrive in a stimulating atmosphere that fosters global involvement, community service, creative expression and personal growth.

-- Fostering Discovery and Creativity: Students and faculty members will come together within and across disciplines to pioneer new frontiers of knowledge.

-- Sustaining a Tradition of Quality: Students will continue to work and study with faculty whose scholarship is enhanced by continuing philanthropic support.

-- Building Faculty Strength and Capacity: Students will study with the finest teachers and researchers.

The campus' fundraising goal is the most ambitious total in campus history. Patrick and Mardelle Kopnicky, residents of Natrona Heights, Pa., are leading the campus committee charged with securing the $3 million in new support.

“Supporting Penn State New Kensington has been deeply rewarding for us, and we hope to encourage other friends of the campus to join us in making sure that it can continue to offer a wonderful educational experience to students from every economic background,” said Mardelle Kopnicky, who earned a bachelor of science degree from Penn State in 1964.

“This campaign is an incredible opportunity for Penn Staters to make a difference for future generations, and we are eager to connect with those who share our belief in the future of the New Kensington campus," said Patrick Kopnicky, a 1966 Penn State architecture alumnus.

 "For the Future" marks Penn State's third capital campaign since the Campaign for Penn State began in 1984. That effort raised $352 million in six years to support a variety of academic initiatives. The Grand Destiny campaign, from 1996 to 2003, raised $1.37 billion. New Kensington surpassed its Grand Destiny goal of $1.8 million, and a majority of the funds were allocated for endowed scholarships, equipment and building projects.

The Office of Development at Penn State New Kensington works in partnership with alumni, students, faculty, staff, advisory board and the community to meet the fundraising goals set forth by the University while also working toward a greater awareness and appreciation for the New Kensington campus and its many economic and cultural contributions to the region.

CAMPAIGN CO-CHAIRS: PATRICK AND MARDELLE KOPNICKY
Patrick and Mardelle Kopnicky, residents of Natrona Heights, Pa., are leading the campus committee charged with securing $3 million in new support for the campus by June 2014.

The Kopnickys, who met as students at University Park, have been married for 44 years, and they are lifetime members of the Penn State Alumni Association. Their daughter, Aimee Kopnicky Marmol, earned her Penn State degree in premedicine in 1992. The couple is now retired. Patrick was principal architect for Kvaerner Metals in Pittsburgh, and Mardelle was owner of Kopnicky Nationwide Insurance in Brackenridge. Though neither attended Penn State New Kensington, they became involved with the Alle-Kiski Society, a regional chapter of the Penn State Alumni Association based at the campus, in the 1980s. Both served terms as president of the society.

"Through the Alle-Kiski Society, we found that Penn State New Kensington and its students, alumni, parents and staff are a very special family of individuals, and they remain as such to this day, " said Mardelle. The Kopnickys have offered their financial support as well as their time and energy to the campus, providing annual gifts to scholarships for many years and creating the Patrick and Mardelle Sacco Trustee Scholarship in 2008.

“We are proud to be able to offer scholarships to Penn State New Kensington students,” said Mardelle. “We see scholarship support as a way of honoring our parents who enabled us to attend Penn State. And in the Penn State tradition, by giving a gift that will keep on giving, we are investing in the future of our community.” The Kopnickys have served as leaders for a number of organizations in the region. Mardelle is the past president of the Allegheny Valley Chamber of Commerce and Allegheny Valley YMCA, and Patrick is the past president of the Council of Friends of Harrison Hills Park. In 1994, they were recognized for their community service by the Penn State Alumni Council.

The Kopnickys succeed Barbara Arnold and Robin Rarie as co-chairs of the campus campaign. Arnold and Rarie, both Penn State graduates and members of the campus advisory board, headed the two-year private phase of the campaign, which began in 2007.

DIRECTOR BILL MITAS PUTS OUT CALL FOR THESPIANS
7:00 p.m, Sunday, Jan. 15, Forum Theatre

Bill Mitas, instructor of theatre arts at Penn State New Kensington, is putting out a call to the campus and community to attend open auditions for the spring production of “Cabaret” at 7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15, in the campus’ Forum Theatre. The musical is set in 1929 Berlin, at the start of the Nazi Germany. The John Van Druten play features 21 characters. Would-be thespians are asked to prepare a song with sheet music or a musical recording. For more information, contact Mitas at wrm14@psu.edu via email.

"CABARET"

Book by Joe Masteroff
Based on the play by John Van Druten
and Stories by Christopher Isherwood
Music by John Kander
Lyrics by Fred Ebb

CHARACTER LIST
The Emcee – The Emcee of the Kit Kat Klub, a leering, ghoulish, flamboyant, figure
Sally Bowles – The headlining British singer at the Kit Kat Klub
Clifford Bradshaw – An American writer traveling through Berlin
Fräulein Schneider – An older woman who runs the boarding house that Cliff and Sally live in
Herr Schultz – An elderly Jewish fruit shop owner who falls in love with Fraulein Schneider
Ernst Ludwig – A German man who befriends Cliff when he arrives in Berlin
Fräulein Kost – A prostitute who rents in Fraulein Schneider's boarding house
Rosie, LuLu, Frenchy, Texas, Fritzy, and Helga – Girls who perform alongside Sally at the Kit Kat Klub
Bobby, Victor, Hans, and Herman – The Cabaret boys of the Kit Kat Klub (Bobby and Victor are twins)
The Nazi Youth – A young boy in the Nazi's
Sailors #1 and #2 – Fraulein Kost's sailors
Nazi Guard – Ernst's bodyguard at the Kit Kat Klub
Max - Owner of the Kit Kat Club
 

PLOT OUTLINE
Welcome to the Cabaret sings the Emcee of the Kit Kat Club through painted lips, as the people of Berlin 1929 join him. Both versions of this show follow the same story and share most songs. Musical numbers exclusively in the Original 1967 version include Meeskite and Why Should I Wake Up? Numbers only in the Revised 1987 version include I Don't Care Much, Don't Go and The Money Song. Both versions include Willkommen, Perfectly Marvelous, Sitting Pretty, Tomorrow Belongs to Me, Cabaret, Don't Tell Mama, It Couldn't Please Me More and Two Ladies. #     

Heading for Berlin in a railway compartment is Clifford Bradshaw, a young, impoverished American writer who has been roaming Europe in an increasingly frantic search for the inspiration for novel number two. He is joined by Ernst Ludwig, an attractive young Berliner who appears to be in the smuggling business. When Cliff inadvertently helps him, Ernst gratefully gives him the name of a likely rooming-house in Berlin. It is Fraulein Schneider's house. She rents Cliff a room for half its usual price. She shrugs her shoulders. She's lived through so much-nothing is that important-So What? Cliff takes out his typewriter. But it's New Year's Eve. Ernst has mentioned a cabaret called the Kit Kat Klub. At the moment it seems much more inviting than the typewriter. #     

The Kit Kat Klub is a cross-section of Berlin night-life: thronged with fat, middle-class Germans-prostitutes-homosexuals-the flotsam and jetsam of a doomed city.  As Cliff enters, the Emcee introduces Sally Bowles, a young English girl. As Sally sings Don't Tell Mama, it becomes apparent that her voice is not the main reason for her employment. Max, the club owner, keeps looking at her in a proprietary fashion. But Sally is looking at Cliff. #     

Sally arranges to meet Cliff. He invites her home, but she refuses-explaining that, "Max is most terribly jealous." # 

The next day Sally suddenly appears in Cliff's room with her baggage. Max has thrown her out. Can she stay with Cliff? Cliff finally agrees-Perfectly Marvelous. #     

The Emcee and two frauleins indicate that everybody in Berlin lives with somebody-Two Ladies. #     

Fraulein Schneider is being courted by Herr Schultz, a widower who lives in her house. He is Jewish and the owner of a fruit shop, from which he brings her a costly pineapple-It Couldn't Please Me More. #     

Months pass. Cliff is getting nowhere with his novel-but enjoying life with Sally-Why Should I Wake Up? But Sally is pregnant. Cliff is upset-then happy. Ernst arrives to offer him a job smuggling a briefcase into Germany. Needing the money, Cliff accepts. #     

Everyone in Berlin earns money in strange, illegal ways-the Emcee announces in The Money Song. #     

Fraulein Kost, a prostitute, discovers that her landlady, Fraulein Schneider, is having an affair with Herr Schultz. Herr Schultz announces they are to be married in three weeks-Married. Sally arranges an engagement party at the fruit shop. #     

Cliff arrives at the party with the smuggled suitcase. He hesitantly gives it to Ernst, who wears a swastika arm-band. Herr Schultz, rather drunk, sings a Yiddish-type song, Meeskite. Ernst decides to leave, but Fraulein Kost lures him back by singing a Nazi song, Tomorrow Belongs to Me. When all the guests join in exultantly, the party suddenly turns sour. #     

The Emcee and Kit Kat Girls do a Rockette routine which turns into a goose-step. #     

Fraulein Schneider breaks her engagement to Herr Schultz. She is afraid the Nazis will come to power-What Would You Do? #     

The Emcee echoes her predicament. He's in love with a female gorilla-If You Could See Her. #     

Cliff decides to take Sally home to America. Berlin is not going to be any place to raise a family. But Sally refuses. She loves Berlin and her life there-Cabaret. #     
They have a savage argument. Sally disappears, returning the next day. She's had an abortion. Heartbroken, Cliff prepares to leave alone,secretly hoping she will join him in Paris. But Sally informs him she's always hated Paris. Cliff sadly closes the door behind him. In the train, Cliff begins to write about Sally and the people of Berlin as, in his memory, they surround the compartment-singing, dancing, living on the toboggan that led to the Third Reich.

MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BIRTHDAY
Monday, Jan. 16

SIX PENN STATE CAMPUSES IN THE WEST
COLLABORATE ON VOLUNTEER ACTIVITIES
“Make it a Day On, Not a Day Off”

In honor of the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr., student volunteers from Penn State New Kensington and other Penn State campuses in western Pennsylvania will take on community service projects Jan. 16, in the local area.

Billed as “Make it a Day On, Not a Day Off,” the activities are a part of the University’s celebration of King’s birthday. Jan. 16 is a federal holiday and there are no classes that day.

The multi-campus community service project is an annual event that moves around the region. New Kensington is the host campus this year. New Kensington students, along with their counterparts from the Penn State campuses of Beaver, DuBois, Fayette, Greater Allegheny, and Shenango will travel in groups to various community organizations in the area, including Habitat for Humanity Restore, Alle-Kiski Faith in Action, Alle-Kiski Valley Historical Society, and Tri-City Life Center. Lauren Blum, student life coordinator at New Kensington, is planning to add three more social service organizations to the itinerary.

For more information, contact Blum at 724-334-6063 or ldb14@psu.edu via email.

The spring semester gets under way on Monday, Jan. 9, at Penn State New Kensington. Registration ends Jan. 8; however, late registration runs until Jan. 20.

There are no classes on Monday, Jan. 16, in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Spring break is March 4-10. The 15 weeks of classes conclude Friday, April 27, and final exams are scheduled April 30-May 4.

Commencement ceremonies are set for 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 5, in the campus Athletics Center.

For admissions information, call 724-334-LION or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions/default.htm online.

SIGN-UP FOR PSUTXT TEXT ALERTS
http://live.psu.edu/psutxt

In the event of snow, severe storms or other emergencies, official word of Penn State New Kensington's closing or class delays can be received via text message and on the campus' website.

Cell phone users who subscribe to PSUTXT, Penn State's text message alert system, will receive a text message when incidents occur that may impact the campus community. Subscription to PSUTXT is free, although individual cell phone carriers may charge for text messaging.

To subscribe to PSUTXT, visit http://live.psu.edu/psutxt online and follow the instructions at the bottom of the page under the PSUTXT heading.

Weather and emergency information also is available under the "News and Events" section on the campus homepage. When there is breaking news, an alert icon will appear in the headlines box along with general information about the nature of the emergency. Clicking on the icon provides detailed information.

The decision to cancel or delay classes will be made as early as possible, usually by 6 a.m. for day classes and 4 p.m. for evening classes. If a two-hour delay is announced, classes will start at 10 a.m. and will last 45 minutes. After a decision on the status of the campus is made, a text message is automatically sent to members.

Information also is available on radio stations (KDKA-1020 AM, B 94-FM 93.7 and Y 108-FM 107.9) and television stations (KDKA-TV Channel 2, WTAE-TV Channel 4 and WPXI-TV Channel 11). In addition to multiple formats, cancellation and delay information for students and faculty/staff can be accessed by phone on a prerecorded message: students call 724-334-6006; faculty and staff call 724-334-6005.

For the delayed class schedules, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/weather.htm online.

ANNUAL MULTI-MEDIA DISPLAY SHOWCASES AFRICAN-AMERICAN ARTISTS

The multimedia exhibit showcasing the works of Women of Visions Inc., a nonprofit women's art collective based in Pittsburgh, opens Jan. 9 in the Art Gallery at Penn State New Kensington.

The exhibit features quilts, drawings, photographs, prints and paintings created by African-American artists. The exhibit runs for two months until Feb. 24. The exhibit is free to the public. The art gallery is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and noon to 5 p.m. weekends.

Founded in 1981, the organization's mission is to promote the art and history of African-American women through exhibitions, education and community involvement. The group establishes relationships with universities, corporations, art groups, foundations and individual artists throughout the country to provide its members with opportunities to grow professionally. Women of Visions members serve as presenters and facilitators of exhibitions, symposia, workshops, and lecture and film series.

For information on Women of Visions, contact Donna Alexander, public relations and marketing director, at 412-606-0733 or dalexanderwov@live.com.

CLASS OF 2011 IS CAMPUS' FIFTY-SECOND
Photos: http://psnk.smugmug.com/

Chancellor Kevin Snider conferred baccalaureate and associate degrees on thirty-six graduates Dec. 17 at Penn State New Kensington's fall commencement exercises.

Barbara Arnold, former Penn State New Kensington student, delivered the commencement address, "Global Initiatives: Where Can Your Penn State Degree Take You?" Kerry Kelly, president of the Alle-Kiski Alumni Society, inducted the new Penn Staters into the Penn State Alumni Association.

Photos of the ceremony are posted on the campus website, http://psnk.smugmug.com/ online.

School of Nursing
Bachelor of Science, Nursing
Brandy L. Campbell, Maria Winger

University College
Bachelor of Arts, Applied Psychology
Rachel A. Barr ###; Robert G. Hughes; Maura L. Sidelko

Bachelor of Science, Business
Ashley L. Aites, Ashley N. Baksis, Hayley A. Karczewski, Robert G. Vandenburgh##, James M. Zollinger

Bachelor of Arts, Communications
Alicia M. Arraujo, Lori S. Maystrovich, Joseph R. Ritter, Gretchen D. Toy#

Bachelor of Science, Psychology
Tyler M. Wilson

ASSOCIATE DEGREES

College of Engineering
Biomedical Engineering Technology
Richard G. Gentile; Evan L. Jackson, Richard P. Kosanovic ###, Gabriel D. Rindosh, Michael W. Soukup

College of Information Sciences and Technology
Information Sciences and Technology
Kimberly S. Kuruc

University College
Business Administration
Andrew V. Holodnik, Audriana M. Negron

Letters, Arts, and Sciences
David L. Bruzda, Richard S. Durzo ###, Stephen F. Sankovich, Joseph A. Swiklinski, Zachary S. Taylor

# Highest Distinction                          ## High Distinction                            ### Distinction
"Subject to completion of all degree requirements and satisfaction of minimum criteria, distinction may be conferred as indicated upon the individuals listed herein and upon such others as may meet the requirements."

 
Commencement is the beginning of new career. 

LOCAL PENN STATERS INVITED TO
GAME AND POSTGAME FESTIVITIES JAN 14
Basketball: 1:00 p.m., New Kensington Lions vs. Penn State Hazleton, Athletics Center
Postgame Celebration: 2:30 p.m., Power Play Sports Bar, Free Refreshments

The Alle-Kiski Society of the Penn State Alumni Association, in conjunction with the men's basketball team at Penn State New Kensington, is sponsoring "Alumni Day" at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 14, in the campus' Athletics Center.

Penn State alumni and friends are invited to join fellow Penn Staters to cheer on the New Kensington Lions at home against South division rival Penn State Hazleton, and to enjoy postgame festivities at Power Play Sports Bar, located on Craigdell Road at Route 56 on the New Kensington/Lower Burrell border. The social includes free food and a cash bar.

For more information or to RSVP for the social, contact Bill Woodard at uxw1@psu.edu.

For more about the Alle-Kiski Society, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Alumni/alumorg.htm online.

TEN EVENTS FOR PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS AND FAMILIES

The Admissions Office is holding nine events during the spring semester for prospective students and parents.

The events include:
• -- "Be a Student for a Day" on Jan. 25, Feb. 29, and March 28.
Be a Student for a Day events give future students the opportunity to attend classes with a current student.
• -- "Financial Aid 101" on January 10 and Feb. 1.
The financial aid program is a guide to the financial aid process and provides an in-depth look at the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form.
• -- "Accepted Student Reception" on Jan. 25  and April 18.
Students who have been offered admission to Penn State New Kensington and their families can learn about what they need to do between their acceptance and their first day of class.
• -- "Application Day" on Feb. 20.
Application Day provides prospective students with help in filling out an application and allows for on-the-spot admissions decisions. The $50 application fee will also be waived during this event.
• -- "Spring Open House" on April 14.
The open house is a chance for prospective students and their families to explore the University and meet with campus students, faculty, staff and alumni.

To register for any of the programs listed above, call 724-334-LION or 888-968-PAWS. For more about admissions, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions/default.htm online.

MONTHLY MEETING AT DINGBATS
6:30 p.m., Monday, Jan. 16, Pittsburgh Mills

ALUMNI SOCIAL AND BASKETBALL GAME
Saturday, Jan. 14
1:00 p.m.: PSNK Vs. Penn State Hazleton, Athletics Center
2:30 p.m.: Postgame Social, Power Play Sports Bar and Grill

New and recent graduates of Penn State New Kensington can connect with fellow Penn Staters at the next monthly meeting of the Alle-Kiski Society at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 16, at Dingbats Restaurant/Royal Gatherings in the Pittsburgh Mills mall.

Alumni who can’t make the meeting can still exercise their Penn State spirit at the society’s, “Alumni Social and Basketball Game,” on Saturday, Jan. 14. Graduates in the area are invited to cheer on the New Kensington Lions against Penn State Hazleton at 1:00 p.m. in the campus Athletics Center. The social follows at 2:30 p.m. at Power Play Sports Bar, next to the ice complex on Craigdell Road at Route 56 on the New Kensington/Lower Burrell border. The social includes free food and a cash bar. For more information or to RSVP for the social, contact Bill Woodard at uxw1@psu.edu.

The society, based at the campus, is the local chapter of the Penn State Alumni Association. The board of directors, comprising alumni, parents and friends of Penn State, represents more than 7,000 alumni living in the Alle-Kiski Valley. Top agenda item is the annual Bowl-a-thon.

The bowl-a-thon is the society's spring fundraiser and will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 25, at Wildlife Lanes in Lower Burrell. This is a family-oriented event, and participants can form a four- or five-person team or can be assigned to a team. The cost is $20 per person and includes three games and shoe rental. Lane sponsorships, the backbone of the fundraising effort, are available for $50 and $100. Proceeds benefit the campus athletic facilities.

The Alle-Kiski Society engages in various projects throughout the year, interacting with other Penn State campuses and current students by social and fundraising events and other networking activities. Social events include a reception for student award winners, a bus trip to a Penn State football game, an alumni tent at the Fall Festival, and student events, such as the Business Club's etiquette dinner. In addition, the alumni group co-sponsors campus events including the semi-annual Alumni Breakfast socials in the spring and fall for local alumni. The most recent morning social was held on Nov. 17 at McCutcheon Enterprises Inc. in Apollo.

Penn State alumni, students, parents, and friends from the Penn State New Kensington service area -- Westmoreland, Allegheny, Butler, Armstrong and Indiana counties -- are encouraged to re-connect with the University and campus by attending meetings. For more information on the society and its events, call 724-334-6049 or send an e-mail to uxw1@psu.edu.

For more information on the bowl-a-thon, call John Spadaro, 724-337-8536. For more about the society, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Alumni/alumorg.htm?cn613 online.

STAFF ASSISTANT RUTH HERSTEK
LIVES NEXT TO CAMPUS
Earned Penn State Degree in December
Three Daughters to Follow

When Ruth Herstek heads to her backyard for family get-togethers Penn State New Kensington is always on her mind. And it’s no wonder. She works at the campus. She just graduated from the campus. And she lives next door.

Herstek, administrative support assistant to the director of Academic Affairs, lives in Upper Burrell, in the shadow of campus. Her yard abuts the Penn State property line.

“I can see the campus from my house and at certain areas of the University, my house from campus,” said Herstek, who began as a part-time staff member in the Continuing Education office. “Walking to the gym, I often hear my dog barking.”

The campus and the Herstek family are intertwined on many levels, especially academically. Herstek received her bachelor’s degree Dec. 17 at the campus’ fall commencement ceremony. Her three daughters, Julie, Jenna and Jamie, are current Penn State students, each at a different stage of their collegiate studies.

“I am proud that my daughters started at the New Kensington campus, which provides a quality, caring learning environment,” said Herstek, who graduated with high distinction. “I feel honored to be a Penn State graduate.”

Seven years ago, inspired by her mother, Elizabeth McClusky, who earned a teaching degree at the age of 50, and with the support of her husband, Ron, Herstek decided to enroll as an adult learner. By juggling office duties, classes and family responsibilities, she earned an associate degree in liberal arts in 2008.

“Work and school have been a great experience for me,” said Herstek, who was a perennial member of the Dean’s List. “But sometimes it feels like I never leave the ‘hill’ since I’m in walking distance.”

After securing a two-year degree, Herstek continued her academic pursuits in organizational leadership, a bachelor’s degree program that is designed for adults with family and career obligations. She improved her communication and writing skills and learned to develop and implement new programs that served her well in her position of working with faculty.

“I’ve learned many new concepts that I brought back to my job,” said Herstek, who earned induction into two student honor societies -- Phi Thetea Kappa and Alpha Sigma Lambda. “I’ve grown so much over the last seven years by challenging myself each semester.”

Herstek’s experiences helped pave the way for her children to matriculate the campus. According to Jenna, “mom made Penn State New Kensington a great place for us to go and her being here makes it even better.”

Julie, the oldest daughter, attended the campus for two years and is nearing completion of her undergraduate studies in psychology at the University Park campus. She graduates in May 2012 and plans to get a master’s degree. While at the New Kensington campus, she had a statistics class with her mother.

“It worked out well because she sat in the front and I sat in the back,” Julie said with a laugh. “It was a good experience and we helped each other.”

The middle daughter, Jenna, is a sophomore corporate communications major. She has decided to stay at the campus to finish her bachelor’s degree work and will graduate in 2014.

“You get a good college experience here,” said Jenna, who like her mother is on the Dean’s List. “I like the small classes and the professors are great.”

Jamie is a senior at Burrell High School and participates in the campus’ dual enrollment program that offers high school students the opportunity to earn college credits. She received three credits for the fall semester and will take three credits in the spring before enrolling fulltime in September in the four-year psychology program.

“Penn State is a great university and the New Kensington campus is perfect for me,” Jamie said. “It is close to home and it has my major. And my sisters liked going here.”

Over the next five years, the third generation of Hersteks will graduate and swell the family’s bachelor’s degree holdings to five. Julie has the inside track on the family’s first master’s degree but she may have competition from mom. Ruth is looking at graduate school, specifically, Penn State’s master’s program in Adult Education. The program is geared to students who want to teach adults and plan learning experiences. As an adult learner, Ruth sees the program as a chance for her to assist others at the New Kensington campus.

“Adult learners need an advocate to help them navigate all aspects of returning to college,’ said Herstek. “I would like to be able get them support and lead them to the resources that are available for them.”

CURTAIN CLOSES ON DRAMA CLUB PRODUCTION

The Penn State New Kensington Drama Club's two-day run of "A Charlie Brown Christmas,” has been cancelled. The show was originally scheduled for Dec. 19 and 20, in the Forum Theatre.

RECEPTION RECOGNIZES CAMPUS PROFESSORS FOR
2011 PUBLICATIONS AND AWARDS

Four faculty awards, three sabbaticals and 21 publications were reasons to celebrate Dec. 7, at a reception in Blissell Library at Penn State New Kensington. Jennifer Gilley, head librarian, hosted the 10th annual faculty publications party, meant to honor the accomplishments of faculty members at the New Kensington campus.

The informal get-together is an effective way for members of the campus family to recognize achievements during the year and “a nice venue for faculty to share potential opportunities for interdisciplinary projects,” said Arlene Hall, director of academic affairs at the campus.

Honored with the Excellence in Teaching Awards were Rujirutana Mandhachitara, associate professor of business administration; Samuel Goldstrohm, instructor in criminal justice; and Sherri Donnelly, adjunct faculty for continuing education. The faculty have three areas of responsibility: teaching, research/scholarly activity and service. The award recognizes campus faculty contributions in teaching. The principal criterion is excellent classroom performance, but excellence in other activities such as advising, supervision of learning outside the classroom, and course development are considered.

In addition to the campus awards, Maria Franco de Gomez, instructor in Spanish, and Robert “Doc” Mueller, associate professor of engineering, were recognized for earning University-wide awards. Franco de Gomez received the George W. Atherton Award for Excellence in Teaching. The Atherton Award is presented each year to six full-time faculty members who have devoted substantial effort to and developed a record of excellence in undergraduate teaching. Mueller was selected for the Penn State Engineering Alumni Society Outstanding Teaching Award, which is presented annually to an engineering faculty for contributions to the art of teaching.

Sabbaticals were granted to Allen Larson, associate professor of communications, Robert Mathers, associate professor of chemistry, and Harold Smith, associate professor of information sciences and technology.

Among the numerous papers, articles and chapters written by the New Kensington faculty was a book on the politics of slavery, edited by Craig Hammond, assistant professor of history, that was published by the University of Virginia Press. "Contesting Slavery: The Politics of Bondage and Freedom in the New American Nation," is an anthology of essays that challenges the conventional wisdom of the expansion of slavery after the American Revolution. Hammond co-edited the book with Matthew Mason, associate professor of history at Brigham Young University.

Scholarly publications were not exclusive to faculty. Special recognition was garnered by a former undergraduate at the campus. Carolyn Serene, who earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics at Penn State Altoona, wrote a paper, “A Generalization of the Second Derivative Test,” that was published in the Pi Mu Epsilon Journal, a publication that promotes mathematics.

Reference librarian Amy Rustic, library assistant Yesenia Figueroa-Lifschitz and staff assistant Beth Matocha assisted in planning the afternoon reception.

FACULTY HONOREES 2011

Dr. Robert Bridges, associate professor of psychology, and Dr. Richard Harnish, associate professor of psychology, co-authored three articles--“Effect of Syllabus Tone: Students’ Perceptions of Instructor and Course” for Social Psychology of Education;  “Engaging Students in Applied Social Psychology” for Promoting Student Engagement; and “Activities, Exercises and Demonstrations for Psychology Courses” for Society for the Teaching of Psychology. In addition, Dr. Harnish wrote an article, “Creating the Foundation for a Warm Classroom Climate: Best Practices in Syllabus Tone,” for The Observer.

Dr. Donald Bruckner, assistant director of academic affairs and assistant professor of philosophy, wrote three articles--“Second-Order Preferences and Instrumental Rationality” for Acta Analytica; “Colburn on Covert Influences” for Utilitas; and “Present Desire Satisfaction and Past Well-Being” for Australasian Journal of  Philosophy.

Dr. Javier Gomez-Calderon, professor of mathematics, wrote an article, “A Note on Cyclotomic Subfields,” for Far East Journal of Mathematical Sciences.

Dr. William Hamilton, assistant professor of biology, and Deborah Sillman, senior instructor in biology, blogged “Ecologist’s Notebook” for their “Hiking Western PA: Observations of Western PA’s Ecosystems.”

Dr. Craig Hammond, assistant professor of history, edited a book, “Contesting Slavery: The Politics of Bondage and Freedom in the New American Nation,” that was published by University of Virginia Press.

Dr. Jyotsna “Josi” Kalavar, associate director of human development and family studies, wrote a pair of articles, “Elder Abuse in India: Extrapolating from the Experiences of Seniors in India’s ‘Pay and Stay’ Homes,” for Journal of Elder Abuse & Neglect and “Aging of Indian Women in India:  The Experience of Older Women in Formal Care Homes,” for Journal of Women and Aging.

Joan Kowalski, senior instructor in engineering, and Tracie Brockhoff, demonstration and equipment specialist in biology and chemistry, delivered a paper, “The FIRSTE Decade of the New Millennium Outcomes and Assessment,” at the American Society for Engineering Education National Conference.

Dr. Rujirutana Mandhachitara, associate professor of business administration, wrote two articles--“A Model of Customer Loyalty and Corporate Social Responsibility,” for  the Journal of Services Marketing and  “Professional Women’s Variety-Seeking Behavior in Fashion Clothing,” for Academy of Marketing Journal.

Dr. Robert Mathers, assistant professor of chemistry, co-edited a book, “Green Polymerization Methods: Renewable Starting Materials, Catalysis and Waste Reduction," that was published by John Wiley and Sons.

Dr. Michael McGinnis, associate professor of business administration, co-authored an article, “A Structural Equation Model Assessment of Logistics Strategy,” for the International Journal of Logistics Management.

Dr. Lois Rubin, associate professor of English, wrote an article, “Jewish Identity over the Life Cycle: Poems by Maxine Kumin and Linda Pastan,” for Women in Judaism: A Multidisciplinary Journal.

Dr. Jennifer Wood, associate professor of education, co-authored an article, "Turning Silence into Speech and Action: Prison Activism and the Pedagogy of Empowered Citizenship," for Communication in Critical/Cultural Studies.

Dr. Yang Xu, assistant professor of business administration, wrote four articles--“Entrepreneurial Social Capital and Cognitive Model of Innovation,” for Management Research Review; “Gender Influences on Mental Models of Firm Strategies,” for Gender in Management; An International Journal; "Competitive Network and Competitive Behavior: A Study of the U.S. Airline Industry," for Academy of Strategic Management Journal; and “A Social-Cognitive Perspective on Firm Innovation,”  for Academy of Strategic Management Journal.

SPECIAL STUDENT PUBLICATIONS
Carolyn Serene wrote an article, “A Generalization of the Second Derivative Test,” for Pi Mu Epsilon Journal.

FACULTY AWARDS
Maria Franco de Gomez, instructor in Spanish, George W. Atherton Award for Excellence in Teaching.
Dr. Robert “Doc” Mueller, associate professor in engineering, Penn State Engineering Alumni Society (PSEAS)
Dr. Rujurutana Mandhachitara, associate professor of business administration, Excellence in Teaching (full-time)
Samuel Goldstrohm, instructor in criminal justice, Excellence in Teaching (part-time)
Sherri Donnelly, Continuing Education, Excellence in Teaching (adjunct)

SABBATICALS
Dr. Allen Larson, associate professor of communications
Dr. Robert Mathers, associate professor of chemistry
Dr. Harold Smith, associate professor of information sciences and technology

FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT OF PREPTECH WILL SPEAK ABOUT
GLOBAL INITIATIVES AND A PENN STATE DEGREE
10:00 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 17, Forum Theatre

Former Penn State New Kensington student Barbara Arnold, the founder and president of PrepTech Inc., an engineering services and mineral processing equipment company in Apollo, Pa., will be the principal speaker at the campus' fall commencement ceremony at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, in the Forum Theatre. The title of Arnold's address is "Global Initiatives: Where Can Your Penn State Degree Take You?" More than 30 graduates will receive baccalaureate and associate degrees.

Arnold was selected in October as an Alumni Fellow, the most prestigious award given by the Penn State Alumni Association. While attending the New Kensington campus, she was elected president of the SGA, and she earned the Eric A. and Josephine S. Walker Award, the campus’ highest student honor. She completed her bachelor's, master’s and doctoral degrees in mineral processing at University Park.

The Apollo resident is a life member of the PSAA and serves on the boards of the campus Advisory Board and the Alle-Kiski Alumni Society. Arnold supports Penn State in a variety of campus projects. She established the Student Leadership Development Fund for awards, guest speakers and travel related to student leadership programs. In 2008, she created the Barbara J. Arnold Global Initiatives Program Support Fund that promotes cultural awareness and diversity enhancement.

For more on Arnold and commencement, visit
http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/graduation.htm

TWO PERFORMANCES;
ADMISSION IS FREE TO THE PUBLIC
7:00 p.m., Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 19 and 20, Forum Theatre

The Peanuts gang, led by that lovable loser Charlie Brown, is the backdrop for “A Charlie Brown Christmas,”  that is the special holiday production of the Penn State New Kensington Drama Club. The play will take place at 7 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 19 and 20, in the campus' Forum Theatre.

Jimmy Baker, a senior communications major, directs his first campus production. Baker, who played the lead role in the recent campus play, “Avenue Q," made his directorial debut in April with the St. Joseph’s High School production of “Beauty and the Beast.” The play earned the Gene Kelly Award for “Best Costume Design.”

Based on the popular comic strip by Charles Schulz, the production features Charlie Brown's quest for the true significance of Christmas. The TV special, a holiday staple that first aired in 1965, won an Emmy award for excellence in television entertainment and a Peabody award for excellence in radio and television broadcasting.

Admission is a free to the public. Donations will be accepted to benefit the campus THON effort. The Penn State Interfraternity Council/ Panhellenic Dance Marathon, aka THON, is a University-wide event that raises money for the Four Diamonds Fund and the fight against pediatric cancer. Over the next three months, campus students will be hosting various events and canning outside businesses in the region to fundraise for what is believed to be the largest student-run philanthropy in the world.

Lauren Richards, THON chair for the New Kensington campus, has set a campus goal of $60,000, the most ambitious in campus history. Last year, students set a goal of $40,000 and shattered the campus record by raising $52,392, eclipsing the previous record of $23,000 set in 2010. Since 2002, the campus has collected more than $162,000 for the charity.

For more information, contact Lauren Blum at 724-334-6063 or ldb14@psu.edu via email.

LINDA MAGUIRE TO USE iPOD TOUCH FOR EDUCATION COURSE

A coursework proposal by a second faculty member at Penn State New Kensington was accepted as a Mobile Media Pilot project for the spring 2012 semester.

Linda Maguire, instructor in education, will utilize the iPod Touch in her “Introduction to Teaching English to English Language Learners” next semester. Camille Downing, adjunct instructor in communications, will use the tablet in her upper-level "Public Relations Media and Methods" course. The two New Kensington campus educators were the only faculty selected from the six Penn State campuses in western Pennsylvania.

Also known as iTouch, the Wi-Fi mobile device is a portable media player, personal digital assistant, and handheld game console. Students in Maguire’s class will use the iTouch to conduct video interviews with international educators--faculty at the New Kensington campus and teachers at local public schools. The interviewees will discuss their experiences in acquiring a second language and interacting with others who speak another language or represent another culture. 

“The course focuses on helping future teachers to understand and support culturally and linguistically diverse students,” said Maguire, who earned a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. “The project will enable students to learn firsthand about the challenges faced by second language learners and the misunderstandings that can arise from cultural and language differences, especially in classroom situations.”

In addition, students will learn how to edit the interviews and share them with the class. Deborah Sillman, senior instructor in biology, who supervises Media Commons at the campus, will help the education majors with the technical aspects of the project.

 “Technology has become a part of our students' daily lives,” said Maguire, a certified elementary and early childhood teacher and reading specialist. “I want to integrate the use of technology in my course to demonstrate its potential as a teaching and learning tool.”

Maguire graduated cum laude from IUP and holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Elementary Education.  Prior to joining the campus faculty, she was an assistant professor at Saint Vincent College where she taught courses in literacy development, content area reading, and early childhood curriculum and supervised student teaching experiences.

The Mobile Media Pilot project is an initiative by Penn State's Media Commons to integrate emerging mobile and social media into the current curriculum. Selecting courses where mobile media can make the most immediate and profound impact is the first step of the project.  Media Commons is a University-wide initiative to provide a variety of services to help students, faculty and staff produce and publish multimedia projects.

For more on Downing’s project, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/44121.htm#NEWS44121 online.

For more about the media project, visit http://mediacommons.psu.edu/mobilemedia online.

MUSICAL COMEDY IS ADULT SESAME STREET
8:00 p.m., Thursday-Saturday, Dec. 1-3, Forum Theatre
Tickets: $5-Students; $8-General Public

Rehearsal Photos:
www.psnk.smugmug.com/Events/AvenueQ-Rehearsal

After building sets, designing costumes, and rehearsing lines, the curtain goes up at 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, as "Avenue Q" begins a three-day weekend run in Penn State New Kensington's Forum Theatre. The other performances are set for 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 2 and 3.

A production by the campus Drama Club, the show utilizes the onstage and backstage talents of campus students, and the directorial acumen of Bill Mitas, instructor in theatre arts at the campus. The reality of life after college and finding your place in the world is the backdrop for this coming-of-age musical comedy.

Based on a book by Jeff Whitty, with music and lyrics by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx, the Tony Award-winning play can be likened to an adult version of Sesame Street, where animation, replete with puppets and puppeteers, interact with the human characters.

Director Bill Mitas, background, and the cast and characters of "Avenue Q."

Jimmy Baker, a junior communications major, is the lead puppet, Princeton, a recent college grad who just moved to New York. His eclectic neighbors live on Avenue Q, a downtrodden street on the outskirts of the Big Apple. Senior Danielle Dortenzo, a veteran of numerous campus productions, is cast in dual roles as Princeton’s love interests: Katie Monster, a kindergarten teaching assistant who is a little older than Princeton, and Lucy, a sultry cabaret singer.

The show is rated R and not suitable for children under the age of 18. Musical numbers include "Schadenfreude," "It Sucks to be Me,” and "What Do You Do with a B.A. in English?" The play ran for six years, 2003-09, on Broadway and is ranked 21st on the list of longest running shows. It is still in production off-Broadway.

Tickets for the Forum Theatre performances are $5 for students and $8 for the general public, and are available at the door. For more information, call 724-334-6032.

Prior to the Friday performance, the campus softball team will host a spaghetti dinner from 4-7 p.m. in Café 780, the campus cafeteria. The cost is $7 for adults and $4 for children under 12. For more information, contact coach Mike Marsili at mjm69@psu.edu via email.

For more about the play and a video clip, visit http://ppc.broadway.com/shows/avenue-q-off-bway/ online.    

 
Roommates Nicky (Chris Capo) and Rod (Jimmy Baker)     Superintendent Gary Coleman (Carla Clark)

STUDENT CAST

PUPPETS
Princeton-Jimmy Baker
Kate Monster- Danielle Dortenzo
Nicky- Chris Capo/Natalie Maretti
Rod- Jimmy Baker
Lucy- Danielle Dortenzo
The Bad Idea Bears- Steve Warhola, Elena Rose
Trekkie Monster- Matt Mlynarski (Voice)
Puppeteers-Reid Rotzler, Steve Warhola
Mrs. T- Natalie Maretti
Rickie- Steve Warhola
Newcomer- Chris Capo
 
HUMANS
Brian- Matthew Mlynarski
Christmas Eve- Natalie Maretti
Gary Coleman- Carla Clark

CHARACTERS

BRIAN: A laid-back guy married to Christmas Eve.
CHRISTMAS EVE: A therapist who moved from Japan.
GARY COLEMAN: Yes, that Gary Coleman. He lives on the Avenue and is the superintendent.
KATE MONSTER: A kindergarten teaching assistant, a bit older than Princeton.
LUCY: A vixenish vamp with a dangerous edge.
MRS. T: Ancient, Kate's boss.
NICKY: A bit of a slacker, who lives with Rod.
PRINCETON: A fresh-faced kid just out of college.
ROD: A Republican investment banker with a secret.
THE BAD IDEA BEARS: Two snuggly, cute teddy-bear types.
TREKKIE MONSTER: A reclusive creature obsessed by the Internet.

Opening number by the resudents of Avenue Q.

LEAVE A LEGACY AT THE CAMPUS;
THANK YOU FOR FAMILY SUPPORT

The Penn State New Kensington Office of Development is taking orders for engraved bricks for the Nittany Lion Shrine on campus.

Orders placed by Dec. 17 will be installed in the spring. The bricks make excellent gifts for December graduates. Parents and spouses of new graduates can leave a legacy for them and build a path to the future with an engraved brick that leads to campus' Lion Shrine. Penn Staters also can give their spouses and parents a big "thank you" that will last forever.

The special bricks form the border of the herringbone-style pathway on the right and left side of the shrine. Engraved bricks replace plain bricks on an ongoing basis. More than 200 of the 1,200 bricks in the two pathways have been engraved.

The Heinz Warneke sculpture sits on a natural monolithic sandstone block in a cove of spruce trees, shrubs, ornamental grasses, seasonal plants, and perennials. The base of the shrine is surrounded by flagstone slabs filled in with other ornamental grasses.

Bricks can be purchased in two sizes: 8 x 4" for $75; 8 x 8" for $150.

To order a brick or for information on Investing in People, contact Donna Speer, director of development,
724-334-6057,  dms46@psu.edu

ARTIFICIAL GREEN FOR PUTTING AND CHIPPING
Second phase: Outdoor Driving Cage

Penn State New Kensington recently unveiled the newest addition to its expanding athletics facilities—an outdoor artificial practice green.

Located on the small plateau behind the Athletic Center, the 45' x 20' rectangular green features two holes that provide a variety of short and long putts and an assortment of left and right breaks.  An area of natural grass surrounds the green and allows for short-range chips.

“During down time between classes or before practice, the players can work on their short games,” said Bill Woodard, men’s and women’s golf coach and alumni and public relations specialist at the campus. “Great benefits are derived from just putting for fifteen minutes.”

The construction of the practice facility was funded by a $5,000 gift from the Honkus–Zollinger Charitable Foundation. Under the direction of co-trustees Debbie Honkus Turnberger and Jason Honkus, the foundation supports a variety of local and national organizations. The Pittsburgh-based organization was established in 2005 by Turnberger, chief executive officer of NEP Inc., and Honkus, her son, who works at NEP, to support a variety of local and national organizations. NEP is the leading international provider of outsourced broadcasting services that deliver live sports and entertainment events. The company was co-founded by Turnberger in 1987.

Honkus-Zollinger has a history of support for the campus. In 2009, its $5,000 grant, earmarked for uniforms and equipment, helped the wrestling program get off the ground last year. The foundation’s largesse continues to benefit the golf team. The private nonprofit firm recently donated $2,500 to build an outdoor driving cage adjacent to the new green. The addition will allow team members to hit full shots into a three-sided net.

The outdoor practice area augments the indoor net in the Athletics Center that can be used in the off-season by the golf team. The enclosed net also doubles as a batting cage for the softball team.

"Athletics at the campus is moving to the next level and the Honkus-Zollinger foundation is the catalyst for creating an infrastructure for sports and programs," said Kevin Snider, chancellor of the campus.

The golf team finished fourth this year at the Penn State University Athletic golf championships at the Penn State Blue Course. Sophomores Cody Dinger (West Shamokin High School) and Alex Baker (St. Joseph’s) finished second and third, respectively, were named to the PSUAC All Conference team. Dinger's second place finish was the second best PSUAC finish by a New Kensington player. John Hook won the conference individual title in 2007 and Adam Stawski was runner-up in 2009. Senior Matt Knapp was named to the Academic All-American team by the United States Collegiate Athletic Association.

For more on the golf team, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/28426.htm

New landscaping around the green will allow players to hone their chipping skills.
Next year, a driving cage will be installed adjacent to the green.

ALLE-KISKI SOCIETY DELIVERS CASH AND FOOD TO
ALLEGHENY VALLEY ASSOCIATION OF CHURCHES
Donations Collected at Tarentum Elks Lodge #644

Penn State community spirit matched its football spirit Nov. 19 as the Alle-Kiski Alumni Society collected food and money for a local food bank at its TV football tailgate party at the Elks Lodge #644 in Tarentum, Pa.

Alumni and friends stepped up when it counted and donated $131, two cases of vegetables and six large boxes of non-perishable items. Society board member Lorri Wilde delivered the cash and goods to the Allegheny Valley Association of Churches Food Bank.

"The response was amazing,” said Wilde, immediate past president of the alumni society. "The generosity of Penn State alumni, family and friends once again demonstrates our commitment to our community and those less fortunate."

Located in Natrona Heights, Pa., the food bank provides canned goods, boxed foods, produce, meats, and dairy products to more than 480 families in the region. The service area includes the communities of Brackenridge, East Deer Township, Fawn Township, Frazier Township, Harrison Township, Tarentum, West Deer Township, New Kensington, Lower Burrell, Verona and Arnold. In addition, eligible families receive Christmas and Easter food baskets and turkey vouchers, as well as winter coats, hats, and mittens. Toys and gifts are distributed during the Christmas holiday.

The Alle-Kiski Society’s community service project was held in conjunction with annual football social. More than 60 Penn State fans brought donations to the Elks Club, and cheered for the Nittany Lions at Ohio State University. The football team fulfilled its duty and rewarded the Blue and White faithful with a 20-14 victory.

For more on the food bank, visit http://avaoc.org/

For more on the Tarentum Elks, visit http://www.elks644.org/info.html

For more about the Alle-Kiski Society, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Alumni/alumorg.htm

Lorri Wilde, left, food drive chair, Laura Kelly, (center) and Kerry Kelly, AKS president,
prepare for the pre-game reception.

LADY LIONS FUNDRAISER FOR SPRING TRAINING
4:00-7:00 p.m., Friday, Dec. 2, Cafe 780
Adults: $7; Children (under 12): $4

In an effort to get to play a preseason schedule that is typically impossible during the capricious western Pennsylvania winters, the Penn State New Kensington softball team is raising funds for a Florida trip in March during spring break.

The New Kensington Lady Lions are holding a spaghetti dinner from 4-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, in Café 780, the campus cafeteria. The cost is $7 for adults and $4 for children under 12.

Fourth-year head coach Mike Marsili’s team last traveled south in 2010. The trip allows a respite from the usual indoor workouts.

"We can only do so much in the gym, so it is a chance to get them on the field and see what they can do," Marsilli said. "The Florida schedule gives the coaches an opportunity to analyze players' strengths and determines their positions."

Adult patrons can make it a dinner-theatre night as the Drama Club presents its fall production, “Avenue Q,” at 8 p.m. in the Forum Theatre. The play is rated R and not suitable for children under the age of 18. General admission tickets are $5 for students and $8 for the general public and are available at the door.

For more on the spaghetti dinner, contact Marsili at mjm69@psu.edu via email.

For more about the play, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/44124.htm#NEWS44124 online.

"PENN STATE A.M." HOSTED BY CALVIN MCCUTCHEON
Member, Campus Advisory Board

Special Guest Speaker:
Jack Crook, DEP

More than 30 alumni attended "Penn State A.M.," the free breakfast social held Nov. 17 at McCutcheon Enterprises Inc. in Apollo, Pa.

Co-hosted by Penn State alumnus Calvin McCutcheon, the company's president and member of the New Kensington campus Advisory Board, the breakfast offered Penn Staters a chance to get together and hear about the complementary activities in the Marcellus shale and waste management industries. Guest speakers were Jack Crook, compliance chief for oil and gas at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, and McCutcheon.

Crook, a 1981 Penn State graduate with a bachelor's degree in earth science and geology, talked about the increase in Marcellus Shale drilling permits over the past five years, and the concerns of both proponents and opponents of energy initiatives. McCutcheon, also a Penn State alumnus, gave a brief history of the company that his father founded in 1947 and talked about the environmental services his company provides, including the transportation and disposal of “fracking” fluid from the shale wells. Used by the natural gas companies, hydraulic fracturing, known as fracking, is a process of breaking up the underground rock formations with pressurized fluid. The “fractured” rock releases the natural gas, which is recovered by the driller.

The semi-annual breakfast socials have been a staple of the Alle-Kiski Society's alumni outreach program. Since its inception in 2003 at Kennametal Inc. in Latrobe, Pa., breakfasts have been held at various businesses in the greater Pittsburgh region. Kennametal hosted its second breakfast in 2007. Previous venues included Medrad in Indianola twice; Pittsburgh Tribune-Review in Pittsburgh; Tribune-Review printing facility in Warrendale; Allegheny Ludlum in Brackenridge; Leed's in the Westmoreland County Business and Research Park in Upper Burrell/Washington Township; Alcoa Technical Center in Upper Burrell; Site Signatures in Tarentum; Destination Wellness at the Pittsburgh Mills in Fraser; Respironics in Murrysville and Phillips Respironics in Westmoreland County Business and Research Park; Electro-Optics Center in Sarver, Westinghouse Electric Co. in Cranberry, Century 21 American Heritage Realty in Allegheny Township, and McCutcheon Enterprises.

Planning is underway for the 2012 breakfast socials. Alumni and friends who are interested in hosting an event can contact Bill Woodard, alumni and public relations specialist, at 724-334-6049 or uxw1@psu.edu via e-mail.

Photo Gallery,
http://psnk.smugmug.com/Events/Alumni-Breakfast-McCutcheon/20134675_Db8mLn#1589443621_HKK55CT

For more about McCutcheon Enterprises, visit http://www.completewastemgmt.com/

Calvin McCutcheon recognizes his employees at the Nov. 17 alumni breakfast at McCutcheon Enterprises Inc.
 

Alumni Breakfast Venues 2003-11

Kennametal Inc., Latrobe, 2003
Alle-Kiski Medical Center, Natrona Heights, 2004
Allegheny Ludlum, Brackenridge, 2005
Respironics, Murrysville, 2005
Medrad, Indianola, 2006
Electro-Optics Center, Sarver, 2006
Alcoa Technical Center, Upper Burrell, 2006
Kennametal Inc., Latrobe, 2007
Leed's, Westmoreland County Business and Research Park, Upper Burrell, 2007
Destination Wellness, Pittsburgh Mills, 2007
Tribune-Review, Pittsburgh, 2008
Site Signatures, Tarentum, 2008
Tribune-Review Printing Facility, Warrendale, 2009
Phillips Repironics, Westmoreland County Business and Research Park, 2009
Medrad, Indianola, 2010
Westinghouse Electric Co., Cranberry, 2010
Century 21 American Heritage Realty, Allegheny Township, 2011
McCutcheon Enterprises Inc., Apollo 2011

ANNUAL STUDENT FORMAL OPEN TO
FACULTY, STAFF, ALUMNI AND FRIENDS
7:00 p.m., Friday, Dec. 9,
Lingrow Farm, Leechburg, Pa.

The fall semester ends and the holiday season continues with the 11th annual Blue and White Ball at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 9, at the Lingrow Farm in Leechburg, Pa.

Sponsored by the Campus Activities Board, the semi-formal affair is open to students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents and friends. The ball features a sit-down dinner and music by a disc jockey. Tickets are $20 for students and $25 for the general public and are available in the Student Life Office on campus.

For tickets and information, contact Lauren Blum, student life coordinator, 724-334-6063 or ldb14@psu.edu via email.

ANNUAL SHOW BY
EAST SUBURBAN ARTISTS LEAGUE
Dec. 1-30

ARTISTS' RECEPTION
7:00-9:00 p.m., Friday, Dec. 2, Art Gallery

Artwork by members of the East Suburban Artists League is on display from Dec. 1 through 30, in the Penn State New Kensington Art Gallery.

More than 50 paintings, drawings and sculptures are part of the exhibit, and many are for sale at prices ranging from $50 to $500. An artists' reception is slated for 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 2, in the gallery.

The Art Gallery and the East Suburban Artists League exhibit will be open through the holiday break except for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.

Hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

The reception and exhibit are free to the public.

For information on ESAL, contact Sue Foster at 724-327-6097 or susanfoster@windstream.net.

COACH DOUG SCHNEIDER EYES RETURN TO CONFERENCE PLAYOFFS
Senior Justin Reed Leads Veteran Team

Last year, a young Penn State New Kensington men’s basketball team went into the final game of the season looking for a victory and an invitation to the conference playoffs. They were denied on both counts. This year, an experienced squad plans an early RSVP for the Penn State University Athletic Conference tournament.

“The team is focused on improving and renewing the tradition and basketball culture at the campus, “said Doug Schneider, second-year coach head coach. “We have set high goals, and our experience, balanced with a quality recruiting class, can help us accomplish those goals.”

With a symmetrical blend of five upperclassmen and five freshmen, Schneider looks for the team to improve on its 6-10 record and third-place finish in the PSUAC-West division a year ago, in his inaugural season.

“With the personnel that we have this year, we should be able to play a more up-tempo and team-oriented style of play,” said Schneider, who as assistant coach helped the New Kensington Lions earn two berths in the PSUAC playoffs. “Our strength is leadership, mental toughness, and teamwork."

Heading the list of returnees is senior co-captain Justin Reed, a two-time All-Conference selection. Reed, a 6’3 swing-man from Saltsburg High School, is an excellent perimeter shooter, and equally adept at taking the ball to the hoop. During his Penn State career, he is averaging 16 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.5 assists while shooting 81 percent from the foul line. A year ago, the Moween, Pa. native broke the 1,000-point barrier, the first New Kensington player to do so since Dan Polizzano in 2004.

“Justin is our lone senior and has done a lot for this program with his individual contributions,” said Schneider, who earned a bachelor's degree in communications from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford. “He is now focused on team success and in improving on aspects of his game that are necessary to help the team win.”

Joining Reed at captain’s table is sophomore Daryl Harrington from Perry Traditional. The 5-10 guard is the leader on the court and has stepped up his offense to take on more of the scoring burden. Harrington’s backcourt teammate, Anthony Brown (Oliver), is a versatile 5-10 guard who can fill in at many positions.

“Daryl is the ‘voice’ of our team and his leadership will guide his teammates to success,” Schneider said. “Anthony is one of the hardest workers on the floor, and heart and determination make him a player that every team needs on their squad.” 

Junior guard Abe Strapac (Leechburg) and sophomore guard Mike Poydence (Apollo Ridge) are the outside scoring threats for the New Kensington Lions. Strapec can hit the three-pointers that are needed to open up the inside game, and Poydence is excellent from mid-range to beyond the arc.

“Abe is one of our better shooters and his off-season work has helped to increase his role,” Schneider said. “Mike is a pure shooter and he displays patience, determination, and the willingness to accept whatever role is needed to ensure that the team is successful.” 

Newcomers expected to crack the starting line-up and to provide depth off the bench include a pair of speedy guards and two big inside players. Freshman guards Lamont Wright and Victor Chaney are good ball handlers who can drive and look to dish it off underneath. The recipients of those feeds will be 6-8 freshman center Dillen Statler (Ford City) and 6-5 forward Shaquille Hagar.

“Lamont has a high basketball IQ and  the potential to develop into a leader at the collegiate level while Victor is improving on all aspects of his game to increase his playing time,” Schneider said. “Dillen is coachable and has the potential to be an impact player as the season progresses. Shaquille gives us size and athleticism at power forward.”

Freshman guard Dom Strapec, brother of Abe, is currently battling injuries. He is expected to return in January when the conference schedule heats up and provide another threat from the three-point range.

“We have a very ‘hungry’ team that has displayed the willingness to do what it takes to be successful in our conference,” Schneider said. “The key to this year's season is improvement on focus, academics, selflessness, and teamwork.” 

Schneider was named head coach last year after four years as assistant coach under former coach Ryan Shank. The banner year was 2007 when the team went 22-6 and finished sixth in the nation in the United State Collegiate Athletic Association. In the PSUAC, the team went undefeated during the regular season and finished as runner-up for the conference title. The squad was ranked number one in the country for the last six weeks of the season.

As an undergrad at Pitt-Bradford, he was the captain of the basketball team that won two conference titles and received two NCAA Division III playoff berths. The Marienville, Pa., native led the nation in three-point shooting percentage, 54 percent, in 2002.

When he is not coaching, Schneider is a paraeducator at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf in Pittsburgh. Paraeducators work under the supervision of teachers or other professional practitioners. Their responsibilities include providing other services to youth and their families. Schneider assists WPSD students with both academic and behavior issues. Schneider resides in Apollo, Pa., with his wife, Tiffany, and three-year old son Dalton.

The coach can be contacted at dls86@psu.edu via e-mail.

ROBERT D. ARBUCKLE BUILDING
Science and Technogy Center named after former Campus Executive Officer

University Park, Pa. — Penn State’s Board of Trustees Nov. 11 approved the naming of the Robert D. Arbuckle Technology Building at Penn State New Kensington, in recognition of the former campus executive officer.

"Dr. Arbuckle has been a vital part of Penn State New Kensington’s growth for more than 40 years," said Kevin Snider, campus chancellor. "His unending energy, humor, and devotion to his profession served not only the campus, but the community as well."

Arbuckle, who holds master's and doctorate degrees from Penn State, began his career in 1968 as a professor of history at the University Park campus and six years later was appointed chief academic officer at the New Kensington campus. In 1977, he was named campus executive officer and remained at Penn State New Kensington for fifteen years. Arbuckle assumed the presidency of Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., in 1992. He retired ten years later.

Under Arbuckle's leadership, the New Kensington campus expanded both academically and physically. Two associate degree programs--Radiology Sciences and Biomedical Engineering Technology--were added in the 1980s. The two programs were the first to be offered by a Penn State campus.

Arbuckle also envisioned a new building complex that would serve the needs of students and businesses in the region. He wanted the campus to become more interactive with business and industry in the area, and he wanted local companies "to use our computers."

Coalescing community leaders, he spearheaded a capital campaign for the construction of the two-building Science and Technology Center. The opening of the first building in 1990 made the campus one of the most technically advanced in the Penn State system. That building, now named after Arbuckle, is home to many specialized engineering laboratories that enable students to pursue innovative programs in technology.

Although phase two took another ten years to complete, Arbuckle's campus/business collaboration became a reality in 2000 with the dedication of the multi-purpose Conference Center and Classroom Building by Penn State President Graham Spanier. By partnering with industry in the region, the University increased its presence in the Alle-Kiski Valley. Last year, more than 60 regional organizations utilized the facilities for meetings, training classes, seminars and workshops

In addition to his leadership aplomb on campus, Arbuckle had the same self-assurance onstage. In 1992, theatre director Lil Coury asked him to audition for the campus stage production of "Brigadoon."  While the campus executive officer had a deft touch in giving direction, the would-be-thespian was equally adept at taking direction. He won the role of the elder school master, Mr. Lundie. The play sold out all performances, and it remains the most popular production in campus history

After moving on to Lake Superior, Arbuckle continued in his role as visionary. He was instrumental in expanding the Walker Cisler Student Center, renovating the Student Activity Center, ice arena and library, and breaking ground for the Fine Arts Center. Upon his retirement, he was awarded the title of President Emeritus, and the Student Activities building was named in his honor.

Upon retirement, Arbuckle returned to his hometown area of Washington Township in western Pennsylvania and resumed his bond with the campus. In 2004, he was named an Alumni Fellow, the most prestigious award given by the Penn State Alumni Association. The distinction is reserved for alumni who are leaders in their professional fields. The New Kensington campus boasts two other alumni fellows: Charles Carson (2002) and Barbara Arnold (2011).

Complementing his standing at the campus is his presence in the community. Arbuckle has served as president and chair of several local boards including Rotary, YMCA, United Way, chambers of commerce, and hospitals. He has received numerous awards including the University’s John E. Wilkerson Award for Administrative Excellence and Rotary International's Legacy to Children award for his work in polio eradication.

Arbuckle and his wife, Lorraine, have three children—Lisa, Robert, and Jeffrey. Lisa and Robert are Penn State graduates.

Penn State New Kensington was founded in 1958 as a result of a study of the local need for higher education in the Alle-Kiski Valley. From its roots in a remodeled high school building on Fourth Avenue in the city of New Kensington, the campus has evolved into a modern educational facility on seventy-two wooded acres in the township of Upper Burrell. Today, more than 800 students matriculate on campus and are studying in fourteen associate and bachelor’s degree programs.

FUTURE FUNDRAISING PROJECTS ON AGENDA
6:30 p.m., Monday, Nov. 21, Dingbats/Royal Gaterings, Pittsburgh Mills

NEW AND RECENT GRADS WELCOME

The last meeting of the fall semester for the Alle-Kiski Society of the Penn State Alumni Association is set for 6:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 21, at Dingbats Restaurant in the Galleria at Pittsburgh Mills.

The top agenda items are ideas for future fundraising projects. All students, alumni and friends, especially recent Penn State graduates living in the Alle-Kiski Valley, are encouraged to attend the meeting and become involved in society activities.

For more information, e-mail uxw1@psu.edu or call 724-334-6049.

For more about AKS, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Alumni/alumorg.htm online.

STUDENTS ON SEMESTER BREAK
Monday-Friday, Nov. 21-25

CAMPUS OPEN
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

CAMPUS CLOSED
Thursday-Friday, Nov. 24-25

No classes are scheduled for Nov. 21 to 25, at Penn State New Kensington during the Thanksgiving break. However, the campus will be open during normal business hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Wednesday, and closed on Thanksgiving Day and Black Friday, Nov. 24-25.

Classes resume Monday, Nov. 28. The fall semester ends on Dec. 9, and final exams run from Dec. 12 to 16. Commencement is set for 10 a.m. on Dec. 17, in the Forum Theatre.

PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS CAN GET A GLIMPSE OF COLLEGE LIFE
8:45 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 30

Prospective students get their last chance of the semester to get a glimpse of college life first-hand at the Penn State New Kensington campus from 8:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 30, as a part of the "Be a Penn State Student for a Day" program.

High school students and adult learners can sit in on college classes, interact with current students and take in the campus' atmosphere. Participants will learn about admissions requirements and the financial aid process. Attendees can enjoy a free lunch in Cafe 780. Additional "Be a Student" days will be held during the spring 2012 semester.

To reserve a spot, call 724-334-LION or 888-968-PAWS. For more on admissions events, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions/admevents.htm?cn11 online.

5K RACE AND ONE-MILE FUN RUN BENEFITS
"DEREK KOTECKI MEMORIAL FUND"
10:00 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 19, Athletics Center

FOOD DRIVE HELD IN CONJUNCTION WITH TV FOOTBALL GAME HELPS
ALLEGHENY VALLEY ASSOCIATION OF CHURCHES FOOD BANK
2:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 19, Tarentum Elks Lodge #644
Penn State at Ohio State

Running enthusiasts and football fanatics can enjoy some weekend leisure time while serving the community on Saturday, Nov. 19, at a Penn State New Kensington doubleheader that caters to the tastes of alumni and friends.

In the morning, the annual Turkey Trot 5K and One-Mile Family Fun Run gets under way at 10 a.m. at the campus Athletics Center. Proceeds from the race benefit the family of Patrolman Derek Kotecki, the Lower Burrell police officer who was slain Oct. 12 in the line of duty. All entry fees will go to the "Derek Kotecki Memorial Fund" that was set up by the Fraternal Order of Police, Allegheny Valley Lodge #39 for Kotecki's wife and two children, ages 13 and 9.

A pre-Thanksgiving fixture at the campus since 1980, the 3.1–mile run course begins at the Athletics Center, crosses the upper parking lot and heads down Myers Drive to the turnaround point. Participants then backtrack to the finish line at the Athletics Center. The fun run/walk starts at 10:15 a.m. The entry fee is $15 for college and high school students with ID; $20 for campus faculty and staff; and $25 for local residents. A special family fee of $25 lets four family-members participate in the distances of their choosing. For more information, contact race coordinator Pepsi Hutton at 724-334-6747 or plh20@psu.edu via e-mail.

After concluding the morning's aerobic activities, participants can replace lost fluids in the afternoon by attending a televised football game party at 2:30 p.m. at Tarentum Elks Lodge #644 on Sixth Street in Tarentum. The Penn State Nittany Lions take on the Ohio State Buckeyes in a Big Ten battle in Columbus, Ohio.

In conjunction with the game, the Alle-Kiski Society of the Penn State Alumni Association is sponsoring a food drive. Penn State fans are encouraged to bring canned food and non-perishable items, such as paper products and infant/baby supplies, to the game at the lodge on Sixth Street in Tarentum, Pa. The society will donate the collected items to the Allegheny Valley Association of Churches Food Bank, which serves the local region. The pregame reception begins at 2:30 p.m. Refreshments are provided along with a cash bar. Reservations are recommended and can be made by contacting Bill Woodard at 724-334-6049 or uxw1@psu.edu

For more on the Turkey Trot and Kotecki fund, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/44086.htm#NEWS44086 online.

For more on the football game and food drive, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/44047.htm#NEWS44047 online.

CAMILLE DOWNING'S PROPOSAL ACCEPTED FOR
MOBILE MEDIA PILOT PROJECT
Students to use iPod Touch for Public Relations class

A coursework proposal by an adjunct faculty member at Penn State New Kensington was accepted as a Mobile Media Pilot project for the spring 2012 semester.

Camille Downing, adjunct instructor in communications, will utilize the iPod Touch tablet in her upper-level "Public Relations Media and Methods" class during the spring 2012 semester. Also known as iTouch, the Wi-Fi mobile device is a portable media player, personal digital assistant, and handheld game console. According to Downing, a communications consultant and owner of Downing Communications, the tablet is a tool for students to research, develop and create the materials for the interactive course. The students will study and research public relations theories as related to current events.

"Students will be able to learn public relations theories and apply them to real life public relations plans," said Downing, who joined the campus faculty in January. "The students will work with an actual client to do research and develop the plan, as well as create the creative materials for that plan."

Downing earned a master's in journalism/communications with a public relations concentration from Point Park University. She has worked in a wide variety of public relations and communications positions and has taught communications courses at Point Park.

 The Mobile Media Pilot project is an initiative by Penn State's Media Commons to integrate emerging mobile and social media into the current curriculum. Selecting courses where mobile media can make the most immediate and profound impact is the first step of the project.

Jennifer Wood, associate professor of arts and communications at the campus, is a strong advocate of the media project for communications classes.

"Camille's project is very exciting for a number of reasons," said Wood, who teaches courses in rhetorical theory and conflict resolution. "It gives students hands-on experience with current technological tools, and it is being implemented by a consummate public relations professional."

Media Commons is a University-wide initiative to provide a variety of services to help students, faculty and staff produce and publish multimedia projects. The open house will include tours of the studio and presentations on how the studio supports teaching, learning and research.

For more about the communications program at the New Kensington campus, visit
http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/Degrees/communications_overview.htm

For more about the project, visit http://mediacommons.psu.edu/mobilemedia

WINTER SPORTS TEAMS AWAY THIS WEEKEND
Wrestling
1:00 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 19, Penn State DuBois Duals

Men's Basketball
7 p.m., Friday, Nov. 18, St. Vincent College

With the annual Thanksgiving break looming, the Penn State New Kensington men's basketball and wrestling teams hit the road this week for a pair of contests. Basketball visits St. Vincent College at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 18, for a non-conference game, and wrestling heads to Penn State DuBois at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19, for a conference dual match with Penn College and DuBois.

Basketball opened its Penn State University Athletic Conference schedule at home Nov. 12 with 125-55 victory over Penn State Lehigh Valley. The New Kensington Lions, 2-1 overall and 1-0 in the PSUAC, topped University of Pittsburgh-Titusville, 76-60, in the season opener and fell to Mt. Aloysius College, 131-72, in a non-conference match against an NCAA-III school. Sophomore guard Anthony Brown (Oliver High School) had a double-double, 13 points and 11 rebounds, against the Mounties. Second-year coach Doug Schneider’s high-octane offense is averaging 91 points per game.

NON-PERISHABLE ITEMS COLLECTED AT DOOR

NITTANY LIONS AT OHIO STATE
Saturday, Nov. 19,
Tarentum Elks Lodge #644, Tarentum, Pa.

Pre-game Reception: 2:30 p.m.
Kickoff: 3:30 p.m.

The Alle-Kiski Society of the Penn State Alumni Association is sponsoring a food drive. 
at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 19, at the Tarentum Elks Lodge #644, in conjunction with its televised football game tailgate party.

Penn State fans are encouraged to bring canned food and non-perishable items, such as paper products and infant/baby supplies, to the game at the lodge on Sixth Street in Tarentum, Pa. The society will donate the collected items to the Allegheny Valley Association of Churches Food Bank, which serves the local region.

Kickoff for the Nittany Lions and the Ohio State Buckeyes is 3:30 p.m. The pregame reception will begin an hour before kickoff. Refreshments are provided along with a cash bar.

The Alle-Kiski Society is based at Penn State New Kensington and represents more than 7,000 Penn State alumni living in the Alle-Kiski Valley.

For more information, contact Bill Woodard at 724-334-6049 or uxw1@psu.edu via email.
For more on the society, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Alumni/alumorg.htm?cn613 online.

PROGRAM COORDINATOR FOR
BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY

Myron Hartman, program coordinator and instructor for the Biomedical Engineering Technology program at Penn State New Kensington, was named one of the top sixty biomedical professionals in the United States by 24x7 Magazine.

"Best of 2011 Biomedical Professionals" is the annual profile of the biomedical industry that appeared in the October 2011 issue. The publication is an online resource for the biomedical and clinical engineering industries that provides information on trends, management strategies and technology advancements. Biomedical personnel are responsible for servicing medical equipment in health care facilities.

As coordinator at the campus, Hartman oversees a program that is known for producing well-qualified and knowledgeable technicians. Healthcare providers, including hospitals and clinics, rely on biomedical engineering technicians to operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair medical equipment. Technicians' tasks include inspections and calibration. New Kensington's associate degree program is one of only three in the nation to be accredited by the Technology Accreditation Commission for the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. The program's facilities include a fully-equipped student Intensive Care Unit (ICU) laboratory that is one of only two in the country.

Hartman has been a longtime advocate of the biomedical industry, both on- and off-campus. In June, he collaborated with Medrad Inc. for the inaugural Pittsburgh Biomedical Conference at the campus. In March, he partnered with MD Publishing, to establish an award for second-year students in the New Kensington's BET program. Earlier in the year, Hartman traveled to the Republic of Liberia to repair medical equipment and train personnel at local hospitals. The trip was the first step in establishing a training program for the Liberian technicians. During the summer, a Liberian technician developed additional skills under Hartman while boarding at Hartman's house.

For more on the award and the Liberia trip, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/43722.htm online.

"REALITY ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE"
Noon, Wednesday, Nov. 16, Science Building, Room 138

The Business Club at Penn State New Kensington is sponsoring a talk on climate change at noon, Wednesday, Nov. 16, in the Science Building, Room 138.

The guest speaker is George Hoguet, educator for the Climate Realty Project, a non-profit organization that seeks to bring the facts about the climate crisis to the public. His talk, "Reality about Climate Change," discusses climate change and its impact on the way we live.

The event was organized by sophomore business student Rajesh Vadlamudi, a native of Hyderabad, India, under the supervision of Rujirutana "Dr. A" Mandhachitara, associate professor of business administration and advisor to the club. The talk is free to the public.

To RSVP, contact Vadlamudi at 724-334-6769 or rvv5046@psu.edu via email.

PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS CAN
EXPLORE OPPORTUNITIES IN HEALTH CARE

Radiological Sciences and
Biomedical Engineering Technology Open House
9:00 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 16, Conference Center

Adult Open House
6:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 17, Conference Center

Registration: 724-334-LION or 888-968-PAWS

Prospective students can explore opportunities in the field of radiology and biomedical technology at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 16, during Penn State New Kensington's open house in the campus Conference Center.

Sponsored by the campus' Radiological Sciences and Biomedical Engineering Technology departments, the joint open house is geared to high school seniors and juniors and adult learners, as well as parents and spouses. Participants can review information about the programs, meet with faculty and staff, learn about financial aid, and find out what the New Kensington campus has to offer. Faculty and staff will provide information on various aspects of the two health disciplines.

"The open house offers prospective students a valuable tool for making an intelligent career choice," said Debra Majetic, program coordinator at the campus. "The students have the opportunity to speak with program faculty and current students, followed by a tour of the departments."

As a part of the health-care team, radiographers provide patient care using safe radiation practices, operate sophisticated technical equipment and make independent judgments and decisions daily. Radiological services are offered in a variety of settings such as hospitals, health-care facilities, physicians' offices, research centers and equipment sales offices. Careers in radiography offer flexible work schedules that accommodate various lifestyles and employment needs.

The radiological sciences program at Penn State New Kensington offers students an associate degree, and graduates are eligible for examination with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. The 72-credit, academic- and clinical-based curriculum begins in the fall of each year and requires 24 consecutive months of study, including summer sessions.

Biomedical personnel are responsible for servicing medical equipment in health care facilities. Under the direction of Myron Hartman, program coordinator, the BET program is known for producing well-qualified and knowledgeable technicians. Healthcare providers, including hospitals and clinics, rely on biomedical engineering technicians to operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair medical equipment. Technicians' tasks include inspections and calibration. New Kensington's associate degree program is one of only three in the nation to be accredited by the Technology Accreditation Commission for the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. The program's facilities include a fully-equipped student Intensive Care Unit (ICU) laboratory that is one of only two in the country. Hartman was recently named one of the top sixty biomedical professionals in the country.

Scholarships are available to students in both programs. Blue and White scholarships are available to all first-year students. The program offers $2,000 scholarships to incoming freshmen who score a combined total 1500 on all three portions of the SAT (critical reading, math, and writing). Other scholarships are available to upperclassmen.

Penn State New Kensington offers additional $2,000 in scholarship funds to Pittsburgh Promise scholarship recipients. Through the "Promise" program, Pittsburgh public school's 2012 graduates qualify for scholarships up to $5,000 a year for four years at any college or university in Pennsylvania. Those choosing to attend the New Kensington campus will receive a total of $7,000 in scholarships.

In addition, scholarships are available to minority students in the Radiological Sciences program. The Mittie B. Hightower Memorial Scholarship was created in 2001 by Hightower Scholars Inc. to support minority students majoring in nursing or science. Headquartered in Lower Burrell, the family-run nonprofit organization assists students with their preparation for a postsecondary education at a four-year college or university. Sophomore Lydia Johnson is one of the current recipients of the Hightower scholarship.

Second-year biomedical students are eligible for the TechNation Scholarship that was established this year by Hartman and MD publishing, an online source for dealers and manufacturers of medical and surgical equipment. Sophomores Douglas Skrabiski and Garry Weber earned the awards this year.

Following the joint open house is a special admissions event catering to adult learners. The semiannual "Adult Open House" is set for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17, in the Conference Center. The program will provide prospective adult students with information on campus admissions, certificate, associate, and baccalaureate degrees, and tips on how to finance your education.

To register for any of the open house events, call 724-334-LION or 888-968-PAWS or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions/default.htm online.

To request more admissions information, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions/reqinfo.htm online.

For more information about the radiology sciences program at Penn State New Kensington, contact Majetic at 724-334-6738 or dak25@psu.edu via e-mail or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/Degrees/radsci.htm?cn21 online.

For more information about the biomedical engineering technology program at the campus, contact Hartman at 724-334-6712 or mdh15@psu.edu via e-mail or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/Degrees/bet.html online.

"PENN STATE NEW KENSINGTON"
One-stop Information Center

In an effort to make a one-stop information center for its diverse group of "friends," Penn State New Kensington has launched an official Facebook page. 

The new page, aptly named "Penn State New Kensington," is geared to prospective students, current students and alumni. In addition, faculty and staff and the community can keep abreast of upcoming events and learn about interesting people, both on- and off-campus.

The official page will not supplant the current stable of campus pages, such as Student Life and Alle-Kiski Society/Penn State Alumni Association. It will be home for campus photos, news and announcements and a portal to detailed information on other Facebook pages.

Users will also be able to access the campus' YouTube channel that features a collection of videos pertaining to the campus community.

To "Like" the new Facebook page, visit http://www.facebook.com/pennstatenewkensington online.

STRONGLAND INTERSCHOLASTIC MATHEMATICS LEAGUE
Nine High Schools Competing for Coveted Title
Finals, January 12, Forum Theatre

Students from nine area high schools had their math skills put to the test Nov. 1, for the first round of the StrongLand Interscholastic Mathematics League at Penn State New Kensington.

Sponsored by the StrongLand Chamber of Commerce's Educational Committee, the annual competition brings together students from Apollo-Ridge, Burrell, Ford City, Freeport, Kiski Area, Kiski School, Kittanning, Leechburg and Valley high schools and gives them the chance to go head-to-head with each other in an academic competition.

Each school has three teams of five students, competing against all the other teams in each round. Students answer two sets of eight questions. They are allowed 25 minutes to answer each set. The questions in algebra, geometry and other areas of mathematics are developed by David Wells, associate professor of mathematics at Penn State New Kensington.

At the end of the first round, the leaderboard is crowded as a mere six points separate the first- and third-place teams. Kiski School "A" tops the charts with 41 points followed closely by Kiski Area "A" with 36 points, and Burrell "A"  at 35 points. Individually, Kelly Kuzemchak (Kiski Area) has the inside track for medalist honors with 12 points, three clear of six competitors with nine points each.

Scores carry over to the final round on Jan. 12 in the campus' Forum Theatre where team and individual champions will be crowned. Kiski School, a college preparatory boarding school in Saltsburg, Pa., is the three-time defending champion.

"The competition provides students with a positive mathematical experience," said Wells, author of two books on mathematics contests. "It exposes them to some challenging problems not normally encountered in the classroom and gives them an opportunity to interact with other students who enjoy mathematics."

For additional information, contact Wells at 724-334-6749 or dmw6@psu.edu.

LEADERBOARD
First Round
Kiski School A: 41
Kiski Area A: 36
Burrell A: 35
Freeport A: 31
Kiski School B: 29
Burrell C: 28
Freeport C: 28
Ford City A: 26
Leechburg A: 26
Burrell B: 26
Kiski Area C: 25
Apollo-Ridge A: 24
Freeport B: 24
Kittanning B: 24
Leechburg C: 23
Leechburg B: 22
Valley A: 19

PROCEEDS SUPPORT "DEREK KOTECKI MEMORIAL FUND"
Campus Sponsors 32nd Annual Race
10:00 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 19, Athletics Center 

Proceeds from Penn State New Kensington's annual Turkey Trot 5K will benefit the family of Patrolman Derek Kotecki, the Lower Burrell police officer who was slain Oct. 12 in the line of duty. Entry fees for the Nov. 19 race will go to the "Derek Kotecki Memorial Fund" that was set up by the Fraternal Order of Police, Allegheny Valley Lodge #39 for Kotecki's wife and two children, ages 13 and 9.

"Our Turkey Trot is going to be dedicated to the Kotecki family," said Kevin Snider, chancellor of the campus.  "This is a great opportunity to get some healthy exercise while benefiting one of our local heroes."

A pre-Thanksgiving fixture at the campus since 1980, the race has grown into a 5K, one of the classic distances of running events.  Open to the public, the 3.1–mile run through the campus and Upper Burrell is set for 10 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 19, at the campus Athletics Center. There is also a one-mile family fun run/walk that starts at 10:15 a.m.

"I think it is important to create a tradition for students and their families and friends," said Pepsi Hutton, race coordinator and instructor in kinesiology at the campus. "Our goal is to sponsor a fun, family-friendly race to promote health and wellness in the community."  The 5K course begins at the Athletics Center, crosses the upper parking lot and heads down Myers Drive to the turnaround point. Participants then backtrack to the finish line at the Athletics Center.

The entry fee is $15 for college and high school students with ID; $20 for campus faculty and staff; and $25 for local residents. A special family fee of $25 lets four family-members participate in the distances of their choosing.

Frozen turkeys will be awarded to the winners of each of the four age categories: 18-24; 25-32; 33-44; 45-and over. All registrants receive a "Turkey Trot" t-shirt and a goodie bag.

For more information, call or e-mail Hutton at 724-334-6747 or plh20@psu.edu via email.

Those who cannot make the Turkey Trot but wish to support the Kotecki family can donate directly to the Derek Kotecki Memorial Fund, S&T Bank, 4251 Old William Penn Highway, Murrysville, Pa., 15668. In addition, a website has been created in the officer's honor, and the sale of a specially-designed memorial t-shirt will benefit the widow and children.

For more about Patrolman Kotecki and to order a t-shirt, visit http://www.officerkotecki.com/ online.

HOWARTH FAMILY RECOGNIZED
Elbert Howarth Advocated Building Campus in Upper Burrell

Patrick and Mardelle Kopnicky, benefactors of an endowed scholarship at Penn State New Kensington, were the keynote speakers on Oct. 25 at the campus' annual Scholarship Reception, an event that brings together scholarship recipients and donors.

The reception gives students who receive New Kensington campus scholarships a chance to meet their benefactors face to face. Campus scholarships are awarded to eligible students on the basis of academic promise, leadership qualities, community service and financial need. This year, new and returning students at the New Kensington campus earned a total of $160,000 in scholarship money. Thirty-nine scholarships were awarded to 100 students with an average award of $1,600 per student.

Among the scholarship students at the reception were Christopher Capo and Katryna Willard, the 2011-12 recipients of the Patrick Kopnicky and Mardelle Sacco Kopnicky Trustee Scholarship, a $50,000 endowment established by the Kopnickys in 2008. Capo is an engineering major from New Kensington and Willard is a letters, arts and sciences major from Brackenridge.

One of the donors selected for special recognition was David Howarth who traveled from Michigan for the reception. The Elbert S. Howarth Endowed Scholarship is named after his father, who passed away in 1992.  Elbert, a registered engineer, retired from Alcoa in 1980 as associate director of the Alcoa Technical Center.

During his 44-year tenure at the company, Elbert was an advocate of higher education and of establishing a local Penn State campus in the area. The New Kensington campus opened its doors in 1958 on Fourth Avenue in the heart of the city of New Kensington and quickly outgrew its downtown campus. Elbert diligently lobbied Alcoa to provide 35-acres of land along Route 780 in Upper Burrell for the growing campus. The initial tract, which has more than doubled to 72 acres, has been home to the present day campus since 1966. Continuing his association with the campus, Elbert served on the Advisory board for 22 years, including a term as president.

Elbert, who earned a bachelor's degree from Carnegie Mellon University, often lamented to his wife, Virginia, that many local and talented students did not go on to college because "they did not want to leave the area or were not able to afford the costs." His vision of the merits of a community campus, coupled with the creation of a scholarship that bears his name, assuaged both concerns.

Virginia, a University of Pittsburgh graduate and former teacher, continues the family's support of the endowment that is awarded to an engineering student at the campus. This year's recipient is Samuel Carlson of West Leechburg who met with David at the reception.

Penn State New Kensington is part of "For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students," a University-wide effort to raise private donations to strengthen support for students, faculty and programs. All gifts enhance Penn State's historic mission of teaching, research and service to society.

For more on giving to the campus, call Donna Speer, director of development, 724-334-6057 or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Giving/givetoday.htm online.

2012 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Elisabeth S. Blissell Scholarship: Gretchen Toy, Casey Domski

Charles H. Booth Jr. Renaissance Scholarship: Vitalii Vasyliev, Colton Tomporoski, Zachary Will

Bozzone Family Foundation Scholarship: William Staniszewski, Brady Boyer, Leigh Hastings

Roger H. and Barbara L. Claypool Endowed Scholarship: Taylor Transue

Thelma M. Clausner Scholarship: Taran Opitz, Michelle Arbster, Brandon Bierer, Melissa Daugherty, Charles Cudlipp, Cody Crone

Dr. Saul and Emma Fleegler Family Scholarship: Amanda Polons, Austin Flick

Ganassi Family Scholarship: Thomas Dalbo

Campus General Scholarship: Michael Klaric, Tyler Davis, Charles May

Bernard and Geraldine Guss Endowed Scholarship: William Staniszewski

Mitte B. Hightower Memorial Scholarship: Raymone Thomas, Lydia Johnson

Elbert S. Howarth Endowed Scholarship: Samuel Carlson

Hazel L. Hug Scholarship: Brandi Ritenour, Jacob Johnson, Jessica Summerhill

The Hyman Family Foundation Scholarship: Amanda Polons, Samantha Polons

Internal CES Scholarship: Andrew Sheffler;  Andrew McKruit;  Zachary Reott, Paige Campbell,  Joshua Marfin,  Nicholas Cavalier,  Mitchell Robinson, Tyler Leatherwood, Kobly Relich,  Joseph Palmieri, Eric Bennardo, Jack Sweeney, Zachary Montgomery, Adam Slater,  Navarre Statam,  Aaron Fehl,  Lee Herman,  Shaquille Hager, Daryl Harrington,  Korie Krull, Ta-Wayne Steele, Stefan Sadock, Travis Klinger, Emerson Kurjakovic

Jerome T. Little Endowed Scholarship: James Craver

Patrick Kopnicky and Mardelle Sacco Kopnicky Trustee Scholarship: Christopher Capo,  Katryna Willard

Evelyn Barker Krepley Scholarship: Deandra Barron, Paige Edwards, Alisha Roudebush, Jayme Livorio, Aric Fellers, Courtney Rockwell

Gregory and Xenia Kotyk Memorial Trustee Family Scholarship: Chelsea Hickman

Eric Sean Link Memorial Scholarship: Christopher Capo

Moore Family Scholarship: Alex Baker

G.E. Marquette Medical Systems Scholarship: Evan Adams

Penn State Alumni Association Trustee Scholarship: Ryan Baker

New Kensington Advisory Board Trustee Scholarship: Taran Opitz, Lindzy Hall, Richard Howett, Josephus Hankey

Laura Lee "Lolly" Benner-Booth Trustee Matching Scholarship: Johnathan Rearick

Charles H. Booth Jr. Trustee Scholarship: Brandon Bowser; Nathan Hand, Laura Giap, Chelsie Girty, Jacob Visnesky, James Miller

Penn State New Kensington Campus Endowment Fund:  Justin Rectenwald, Thomas Dubovi, Brian Jug, Grant Schoenfelder, Jake Howard

Penn State New Kensington Faculty and Staff Scholarship: Colton Tomporoski, Brian Jug

William and Claudia Harbaugh Trustee Scholarship:  Ashley Walker, Jayme Kruse, Michelle Arbster, Zachary Zatko

Dr. N.A. Kopelman and Freda D. Kopelman Trustee Scholarship:  Edward Sasinoski, Robert Vandenburgh, Hannah McBean

Gertrude A. "Trudi" Miller-Clements-Booth Trustee Scholarship:  Kriss Bookwalter, Stephen Artman, Megan Emanuel

R.P. Simmons Family Trustee Scholarship: Ryan Delane, Evan Toy, Michael Lockerman

Trustee Scholarship Fund: Shanna Williams, Jesse Vulgris, Christian Walleck

Lora Lee Phillips Memorial Award: Thomas Dubovi

PNC Financial Corp. Endowed Scholarship: James Craver, Timothy Borland

Alle-Kiski Society Endowed Scholarship: Shanna Williams, Vanessa Peck, Corey Zell, Justin Tinnemeyer, Gretchen Toy

Penn State New Kensington Advisory Board Endowed Scholarship:  Vitalii Vasyliev, Taylor Transue

Joseph and Mary Quarato Nursing Program Award: Maria Eshelman

Honorable L. Alexander Sculco Scholarship: Christopher Bachman

Ruth and Harry Stein Scholarship: Christopher Bachman, Dawnalyn Kann

Technical Employees of Alcoa Metallurgical Award Fund: Justin Rectenwald

John H. Yeamans Family Endowed Scholarship: Daniel Hoffman

SPAGHETTI BENEFIT DINNER
Noon-6:00 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 6
Saxonburg VFW
572 W. Main Street, Saxonburg, Pa., 16056

In anticipation of THON 2012, the engine of the Penn State New Kensington fundraising machine warms up with a spaghetti dinner from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 6, at the Saxonburg VFW in Saxonburg, Pa.

The menu features salad, bread, tea/orange juice/water/coffee, spaghetti with meat sauce or plain marinara, and various desserts. Tickets are $8 for adults, $4 for children under 10, and free for children 3 years old and younger. Takeout is available. Baskets of goodies will be raffled off.

The Penn State Interfraternity Council/ Panhellenic Dance Marathon, aka THON, is a University-wide event, and Lauren Richards, THON chair for the New Kensington campus, has set a campus goal of $60,000, the most ambitious in campus history. Last year, students set a goal of $40,000 and shattered the campus record by raising $52,392, eclipsing the previous record of $23,000 set in 2010. Since 2002, the campus has collected more than $162,000 for the charity.

"I know it's optimistic, but I really want to do at least $60,000 this year," said Richards, an information sciences and technology major. "We have really good fundraisers and an awesome team."

Over the next four months, campus students will be hosting various events and canning outside businesses in the region to raise money for what is believed to be the largest student-run philanthropy in the world.

The THON committee is looking for donations of items for the baskets as well as money for the THON fund.

The Saxonburg VFW is located at 572 W. Main Street, Saxonburg, Pa., 16056. For more about the spaghetti dinner, contact Nicki Thoma at 724-272-0588 or nat5066@psu.edu via email.

For information on other campus THON events, contact Lauren Blum at 724-334-6063 or ldb14@psu.edu via email.

ALUMNI CALVIN MCCUTCHEON AND JACK CROOK TO DISCUSS
WASTE MANAGEMENT AND ENERGY INDUSTRY

"Penn State A.M."
8:00 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 17, MEI, Apollo, Pa.

Penn State alumni Calvin McCutcheon of McCutcheon Enterprises Inc. and Jack Crook of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection are the featured speakers at the next alumni breakfast set for 8 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 17, at McCutcheon Enterprises in Apollo, Pa. McCutcheon will discuss the waste management industry including the disposal of "fracking" water from Marcellus shale drilling. Crook's talk will focus on water use and erosion issues of the oil and gas industry.

The morning social, officially called "Penn State A.M.," is an informal free breakfast geared to Penn State alumni and friends who live and work in the greater Pittsburgh region. With Happy Valley's famous "grilled stickies" highlighting the menu, guests can get a first-hand look at government regulations for waste treatment facilities and the energy industry.

A member of the New Kensington campus Advisory Board, McCutcheon has served as the president of McCutcheon Enterprises for more than 20 years. His company offers transportation, disposal and onsite environmental services for all waste management solutions.  The waste management services company is one of the largest environmental companies on the Eastern seaboard. Its cliental list includes Fortune 100 companies and numerous departments of the local, state and federal governments. McCutcheon holds a bachelor's degree in law enforcement and corrections from Penn State. McCutcheon is active in the community, serving as a founding member of the StrongLand Chamber of Commerce and past president of the Pennsylvania Septage Management Association. 

Crook is the compliance chief for oil and gas at DEP. According to Crook, his duties include supervising the field inspections of drilling sites and "managing violations and penalties when necessary to regulate the growing Marcellus shale industry." A 1981 Penn State graduate with a bachelor's degree in earth science and geology, Crook is an avid Penn State football fan, season ticket holder, and staunch supporter of head coach Joe Paterno.

The alumni breakfast is co-hosted by the Alle-Kiski Alumni Society and Penn State New Kensington. In addition to the free breakfast, there are special door prizes including free beverage tickets for the Penn State televised football tailgate party on Saturday, Nov. 19, at the Tarentum Elks Lodge #644 on Sixth Avenue in Tarentum, Pa., and a free entry fee for the 13th annual Alumni Golf Scramble, scheduled to take place at 12:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 10, at the Links at Spring Church.

To RSVP for the breakfast, contact Bill Woodard at 724-334-6049 or uxw1@psu.edu.

CAREER DAY
8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Monday, Nov. 21, Forum Theatre

An information session for high school students on post-secondary education at vocational, community, and proprietary institutions will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 21, in the Forum Theatre at Penn State New Kensington.

Sponsored by Westmoreland Economic Development Initiative for Growth, better known as WEDIG, "Career Day" is geared to students interested in pursuing career opportunities in the trade and technical fields. More than 200 students from Kiski Area, Burrell, and Valley high schools and Northern Westmoreland Area Vocational Technical School will get first-hand information on job skills that are needed in today's workforce from representatives from various occupations and companies.

WEDIG is an organization of more than 100 business and government officials who work together to achieve economic growth and global competiveness through private-public partnerships. Kevin Snider, chancellor of the New Kensington campus, spearheaded the establishment of the group in 2009 to foster quality development in communities throughout the county. Members come from five Alle-Kiski municipalities -- Allegheny Township, Arnold, Lower Burrell, New Kensington and Upper Burrell. Snider organized WEDIG into committees that deal with five issues: infrastructure; education and training; quality of life; business and investment; and health, wellness and spirituality. Penn State New Kensington students serve as interns to help each committee.

For more information, contact Kathy Starr, 724-845-8789 or kathrich15656@yahoo.com via email.

GEARED TO CURRENT STUDENTS AND ALUMNI
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 2, Monroeville Convention Center

More than 120 employers offering internships and jobs will be on hand at the Western Pennsylvania Career Services (WestPACS) Association College Job and Internship Fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 2, at the Monroeville Convention Center in Monroeville, Pa.

Recruiters from a wide variety of industries, government agencies and nonprofit organizations will attend. The fair is geared toward fall and spring graduates and recent alumni with program certificates and degrees in all majors.

Jim Shields, career services coordinator at Penn State New Kensington, is the chair of the student marketing committee of WestPACS. According to Shields, the event features full- and part-time employment, internships and co-op opportunities, both regionally and nationally.

"Job seekers will be able to discuss current openings and network with employers hiring in numerous career fields," said Shields. "It is the premier job fair for college students and graduates in Western Pennsylvania.”

Sponsored by the WestPACS Consortium of 44 colleges and universities in western Pennsylvania, the job fair is open to students and graduates from two- and four-year degree programs. Advance registration is free until Oct. 31. The cost is $5 at the door.

A resume, college ID and professional dress are required for entrance into the fair. Free parking is available. Register online at www.westpacs.org or contact Shields at (724) 334-6065 or xjs8@psu.edu via e-mail.

For a list of employers and job openings at the job fair, visit http://www.westpacs.org/Default.aspx online.

For information on career assistance at Penn State New Kensington, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentServices/CareerServices/careers.htm

TEAM  EARNS RAVE REVIEWS AT
PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS' "EXTREME ACCOUNTING GAMES"

For the first time in campus history, a team of business students from Penn State New Kensington competed in the PricewaterhouseCoopers' "Extreme Accounting Games," a national collegiate business tournament.

Sophomore captain Rajesh Vadlamudi of Hyderabad, India, sophomore Grant Schoenfelder of Murrysville, senior Marc Meggantz of Fox Chapel, junior Megan Emanuel of Murrysville, and freshman Paige Campbell of East Deer represented the campus Oct. 19 in preliminary rounds at Penn State University Park. Known as "PwC xACT," the competition gives students the opportunity to work through some of the same issues that challenge business and government leaders.

Thirty-five teams, comprising undergraduate and graduate students, devised solutions for business cases that required marketing, management and financial analysis. The New Kensington campus group's case study involved the best option for client: acquire an existing company with significant financial and operational risks, or build a new company from scratch. Presentations were evaluated by a panel of judges from PricewaterhouseCoopers.

"Our students knew their material very well and worked effectively as individuals and as a team," said Rujirutana "Dr. A" Mandhachitara, associate professor of business administration and advisor to the campus team. "They learned a great deal about teamwork, analytical and problem solving skills, and the challenges in time management. It was a valuable learning experience for them." 

The New Kensington team was the first non-University Park campus team to compete in Penn State's opening round. Previously, participating teams were composed of students from the Smeal College of Business. Although the New Kensington team did not advance to the next round, their analytical skills garnered praise from the judges.

"Two judges commented that the team came from a completely different perspective, and they liked the financial and marketing recommendations the team made," said Mandhachitara, who teaches upper-level marketing classes at the New Kensington campus.  "They said that they had never thought about these ideas before." 

Sponsored by PricewaterhouseCoopers, the competition annually attracts more than 4,000 students from 80 colleges and universities. Established in 2003, the event uses real-world business challenges to test critical thinking, team-building and presentation skills. Each national finalist team is awarded $10,000 and an additional $5,000 is given to their faculty advisors.

Penn State New Kensington offers a bachelor's degree in business and an associate degree in business administration.

For more on the campus business program, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/Degrees/business_welcome.htm

RADIO TALK SHOW HOST GIVES HIS VIEWS ON
THE CONSTITUTION AND BUSINESS
1:00 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 2, Art Gallery
Free to the Public

Radio talk show host Glen Meakem will give a talk about the United States Constitution and how it complements business at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 2, in the Art Gallery at Penn State New Kensington. The presentation is free to the public.

Meakem's campus appearance is a part of a daylong program that includes separate presentations for high school students at 10:00 a.m. and campus students at noon in the Forum Theatre. A reception for the entrepreneur and venture capitalist is set for 11:15 a.m. in the Art Gallery.

Meakem, host of the “Glen Meakem Program,” a conservative talk radio show that is broadcast locally on FM News Talk 104.7 on weekends, previously visited the campus in 2009 as guest speaker of "Insight Forum," the lecture and discussion program that is geared to the local community.

For more information, call 724-334-6056.

ABOUT GLEN MEAKEM
A successful technology entrepreneur and venture capitalist, Meakem offers information and insights on how individuals, businesses, states, and the nation can be more successful. His perspectives were shaped by his experiences as a new economy innovator and leader -- first as co-founder, chairman and chief executive officer of Freemarkets Inc. and more recently as co-founder and managing director of Meakem Becker Venture Capital. Freemarkets was a leading business-to-business Internet company which helped Global 2000 companies save money by automating and improving their purchasing functions.

One of the keys to Meakem’s success as an entrepreneur has been his adherence to a strict code of personal and professional ethics and an ability to build strong teams of like-minded individuals. He gained early business experience working in professional positions for Kraft Foods, McKinsey & Company and General Electric.

Early in his career, Meakem served as an officer in the Army Reserve, volunteering and serving as a combat engineer platoon leader in the Gulf War. He graduated from Harvard University in 1986 and later earned his master's of business administration from Harvard Business School.

He launched the "Glen Meakem Program" in 2008 to provide a forum for discussion about making Pittsburgh and Pennsylvania healthy growing places.

Active in the community, Meakem is a member of the boards of Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, Commonwealth Foundation and Extra Mile Education Foundation.  He previously served as a trustee of Carnegie Mellon University, and is a former chairman of the board of the Historical Society of Western Pennsylvania, which operates the Senator John Heinz History Center.  In addition, Meakem serves on the advisory committee of Imani Christian Academy, an inner-city private school. 

Meakem has won numerous awards including the Anti-Defamation League’s National American Heritage Award, Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award for Western Pennsylvania, Syracuse University’s Salzberg Medallion for Exceptional Business Achievement, the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts Cultural Award, and Junior Achievement’s Spirit of Enterprise Entrepreneur of the Year Award.  He was awarded an honorary Ph.D. in business administration by Robert Morris University.

Married for 22 years, he and his wife, Diane, reside in Sewickley, Pa. with their five children.

GLEN MEAKEM PRESENTATION SCHEDULE AND RECEPTION
10:00-11:00 a.m.
Plum High School students

11:15 -11:45 a.m.
Reception for students and community in the Art Gallery (pizza and refreshments)

Noon
Penn State New Kensington students, Forum Theatre

1:00 -2:00 p.m.
Community, Art Gallery

JUSTIN VORBACH WILL RECRUIT AND
COUNSEL PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS

Justin Vorbach was named admissions counselor at Penn State New Kensington. Vorbach is responsible for recruiting and counseling prospective students with the focus on traditional aged students. In addition, he is advisor to the Lion Ambassadors, a student organization found on every campus of Penn State. Their mission is to serve the University, the student body and alumni by acting as representatives of the University.

"Justin brings both knowledge and enthusiasm about Penn State to this position," said Patty Brady, director of enrollment management. "He is passionate about the benefits of attending the New Kensington campus."

Vorbach, a native of Sewickley, Pa., is no stranger to Penn State or campus admissions responsibilities. He spent the past year working as an intern in the admissions office at Penn State Beaver, learning the duties that he is responsible for at the New Kensington campus. Vorbach earned a bachelor's degree in business marketing and management in May at Penn State Beaver, where he was the 2011 recipient of the Eric A. and Josephine S. Walker Award that is given to the student whose outstanding qualities of character, scholarship and leadership contribute to the prestige of the campus.

The Admissions office is cornering the market on Walker awardees as Vorbach is the second member of the staff to earn the distinction. Danielle DeStefano, a fellow admissions counselor, received the honor five years ago from the New Kensington campus.

To contact Vorbach, call 724-334-6018 or send an email to jav5121@psu.edu.

For more about admissions, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions/default.htm online.

INFORMATION SESSION AND DINNER
4:45 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 9, Conference Center
Guest Speaker: Tim Conley, Chief Master Sergeant (ret.), United States Air Force.

Realizing that there are many challenges associated with the decision of veterans to start or return to college, an information session and dinner is set for 4:45 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9, in the Conference Center at Penn State New Kensington.

The Veterans Open House is geared to nontraditional students, those classified as at least 24 years old, who are looking for a career change or seeking additional education. The program provides prospective adult students with information on the various certificate, associate, and baccalaureate programs offered at Penn State New Kensington and tips on how to finance a Penn State education.

There are numerous academic options available to veterans, including: selecting from more than 200 noncredit, certificate and degree programs; choosing full- or part-time status; and scheduling day or evening classes. The enrollment management staff at the campus will be on-hand to assist prospective students with application forms, and application fees will be waived during the open house.

Dinner begins at 5 p.m., and the program follows at 6 p.m. An optional tour of the campus is available at 4 p.m. The Air Force Junior ROTC of Plum High School will post the colors at the beginning of the program. The dinner and program are free to the public.

The special guest speaker is Penn State alumnus Tim Conley, a retired chief master sergeant in the United States Air Force. The Pittsburgh native earned a degree in forest technology before joining the Air Force in 1981. Prior to retirement in 2008, he was superintendent of Aerospace Education and Training and manager of the Air Force Enlisted Career Field at Brooks Air Force Base, Texas. Conley is currently the ROTC aerospace instructor at Plum.

Veterans and adult learners, who comprise approximately 29 percent of the Penn State New Kensington student population, have their own space on the campus at the Adult Learner Resource Center and Lounge, which is open from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week. The lounge includes a small library of resource books, coffee maker, refrigerator, microwave, a computer and printer, white board, table and chairs for small group study and comfortable chairs for relaxation. Penn State New Kensington strives to support these students in reaching their academic goals while maintaining a healthy life balance.

Veterans who have served on active duty since Sept. 11, 2001, can have their tuition costs covered by the program that enables Penn State to share tuition costs with the Veterans Administration.

For more information or to reserve a spot at the open house, call 724-334-LION or 888-968-PAWS.

For more on the Veterans Administration's Yellow Ribbon program, visit http://www.gibill.va.gov/GI_Bill_Info/CH33/Yellow_ribbon.htm

STUDENT AND FACULTY DISPLAY
"The Art of Autumn"
Arists' Reception: 6:00-8:00 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 9

The exhibit of the works of Oakbridge Academy of Arts opens Monday, Nov. 1, for a month-long run in the Penn State New Kensington Art Gallery.

“The Art of Autumn” features more than 150 multimedia pieces by faculty and students of the academy. A reception for the artists will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 9. Both the reception and exhibit are free to the public. Gallery hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m.to 5 p.m. on weekends.

Located on Greensburg Road in Lower Burrell, the Oakbridge Academy is an art and photography school that specializes in career education and training for students who want to gain the working knowledge of visual arts. Two-year programs are offered in visual arts and photography. Scholarships and financial aid are available.

For more information, call Cliff McGuire, assistant director and faculty head, cmcguire@oaa.edu via email.

For more on the academy, visit http://www.oaa.edu/index.htm online.

WRESTLING FEATURES NINE TOURNAMENTS
Three Duals in Athletics Center

BASKETBALL 18-GAME SCHEDULE 
HIGHLIGHTED BY SEVEN HOME GAMES

Penn State New Kensington's winter sports get underway in early November as wrestling and men's basketball open the seasons on the road.

The wrestling team opens the 2011-12 campaign on Nov. 5 with the Knight Open at Clarion University. Under the direction of first-year head coach Doug Joseph, the New Kensington Lions play a nine-match schedule that includes three home duals in the campus Athletics Center and six tournaments on the road. The home matches feature Penn State Fayette on Jan. 7, Penn State Greater Allegheny on Jan. 12, and Penn State Beaver on Jan. 19. Highlights of the away schedule are tournaments at Washington and Jefferson College and Clarion. For the full wrestling schedule, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/36290.htm online.

The men's basketball team opens the 2011-12 season at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 8, with a non-conference match at the University of Pittsburgh in Titusville. Under the direction of second-year head coach Doug Schneider, the New Kensington Lions will play an 18-game schedule that includes 7 home games in the campus Athletics Center and 15 Penn State University Athletic Conference games. The non-conference schedule includes St. Vincent College and Mt. Aloysius College. Last year, the Lions went 6-10 in the PSUAC and finished third in the West division.

For the full basketball schedule, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/28376.htm online.

For more on New Kensington campus athletics, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/sports.htm online.

CAMPUS TRADITIONS

The 2012 Fall Festival, a community event geared to local residents, as well as students and alumni, is set for Saturday, Sept. 29, spread over the campus' 72 acres.

Events will include food vendors, car show, bed races, kids activities, and an alumni tent featuring a televised Penn State football game on a big screen TV. The festival committee is currently in the planning stages of the schedule of events.

The fourth annual Chancellor's Gala is booked for Friday, Sept. 28. The event brings together donors, alumni, students, faculty and staff, and features dinner, entertainment and a silent auction. The 2011 gala raised more than $10,000 for the campus Advisory Board's trustee scholarship.

For more information on the gala, call 724-334-6056.

For a recap of the 2011 festival, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/44034.htm#NEWS44034

For a recap of this year's gala, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/44046.htm#NEWS44046

"YOUTH LEADERSHIP DAY"
8:30 a.m. - noon, Thursday, Oct. 27, Conference Center

"INVENTION CONVENTION"
6:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 3, Conference Center

Penn State New Kensington will host two academic competitions in October and November for high school and middle school students that promote leadership and innovation.

"Youth Leadership Day" will run from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Thursday, Oct. 27, in the campus Conference Center. More than 80 juniors and seniors from 13 local high schools will be assigned groups to discuss case studies of secondary school issues. Guest speakers include Ray Kilmer, chief technology officer, Alcoa; Patty Kirkpatrick, commissioner, Armstrong County; and Kevin Snider, chancellor, Penn State New Kensington. The students were invited to the program after submitting essays on the merits of a leadership program. The event is sponsored by the StrongLand Chamber of Commerce and Leadership Alle-Kiski Valley. For more information, contact program manager Diane Chabel, 412-860-9326 or dchabal4@yahoo.com via email.

Innovation is the keystone for the "Invention Convention" that is set for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 3, in the Conference Center. More than 100 seventh- and eighth-grade students from local middle schools will unveil their inventions and explain their creative processes. A panel of judges from Alcoa, Penn State Electro-Optics Center and Acutronics USA will evaluate the presentations and award first, second, and third-place prizes. Sponsored by StrongLand and the Allegheny Valley Chamber of Commerce and funded by a grant for Alcoa, the convention is the culminating event of a project that began with an orientation program at the campus in September for more than 140 aspiring inventors. In addition to evaluating the inventions, the judges will talk about innovation, patents and project planning. The event is free to the public. For more information, contact Pat Hollinger, 724-34-6053 or pdh5@psu.edu via email.

TERMINAL AT MAIN ENTRANCE, ADMINISTRATION BUILDING

PITTSBURGH ROUTE
Saturdays, 3:00 - 11:00 p.m.
Central City Plaza in downtown New Kensington
Strip District
Greyhound Bus Terminal
South Side
Waterfront in Homestead
Monroeville Mall

LOCAL ROUTE
Sundays, noon-6:00 p.m.
Central City Plaza in downtown New Kensington
Giant Eagle on Tarentum Bridge Road in New Kensington
Galleria at Pittsburgh Mills in Frazer Township
Waterworks Mall in Fox Chapel Borough

You can now get there from here.

Penn State New Kensington students can expand their shopping and entertainment horizons with the new Campus Shuttle that began service Sept. 6. Geared to students living in the Nittany Highlands Apartments adjacent to campus, the free service is provided to students with a valid Penn State ID card.

Operating on the wekend, the 7-passenger van has two loops--local and Pittsburgh. The shuttle terminal is the main entrance of the campus in the upper parking lot.

The local loop destinations include Central City Plaza in downtown New Kensington; Giant Eagle on Tarentum Bridge Road in New Kensington; Galleria at Pittsburgh Mills in Frazer Township; and Waterworks Mall in Fox Chapel Borough. The scheduled runs are from noon to 6 p.m. on Sundays.

The Pittsburgh loop includes stops at the Strip District, Greyhound bus terminal; South Side; Waterfront in Homestead; and Monroeville Mall. The scheduled runs are from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturdays.

For more information, call 724-334-6062

For the shuttle schedule, visit http://nk.psu.edu/StudentServices/43996.htm online. 

PROCEEDS SET GALA RECORD;
FUND ADVISORY BOARD TRUSTEE SCHOLARSHIP

It started as "blue and white" for donors and friends but ended as "green' for students and scholarships.

Penn State New Kensington's Chancellor's Gala, which is a part of the University-wide fundraising effort, "For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students," brought in more than $10,000, a new record for the three-year-old event. The total represented a 25 percent increase from a year ago.

The gala brought together 138 campus supporters--donors, students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends-- for an evening of socializing and networking at Hill Crest Country Club. The theme was "Blue and White Lions Night," and the Penn State spirit permeated the room, as did the sounds of the Student Jazz Ensemble and the enthusiasm of Penn State alumnus and former campus student Joe Battista, who served as master of ceremonies.
 
Guests were at their philanthropic best, showing their gamesmanship acumen while bidding on auction items; invoking fortuitous superstitions when purchasing raffle tickets; and expecting serendipity to play a role in their mystery box acquisitions.

"It was an exceptional night and our thanks for the support that benefits the campus as well as the community," said Donna Speer, director of development.  "We are committed to helping our community grow by breaking the cycle of poverty, and helping our students to advance academically, socially, ethically and culturally."

In addition to fundraising, the Chancellor's Gala serves as a platform for the campus to honor its special donors.

The Hyman Family Foundation was named the third recipient of the "Corporate/Foundation Partner of the Year" award. Kevin Snider, chancellor of the campus, presented the award to the Hyman family for its support of the University and the campus during the past three decades. The inscription on the plaque denotes the family's "leadership, support, and assistance in the advancement, growth, and development of Penn State New Kensington and the surrounding communities." Lois Rubin, an officer of the foundation and associate professor of English at the campus, accepted the award on behalf of the foundation.

Hugh G. McRandal Jr., a former student at Penn State New Kensington, was inducted as the 2011 member of the Arch Recognition Society at the annual Chancellor's Gala. McRandal, a marine forecaster for the Ocean Prediction Center of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, joins the 23 charter members who were honored at the gala a year ago. The donor society's membership is reserved for campus supporters who have contributed a total of $25,000 to the campus.

The proceeds will be added to the Advisory Board's endowed trustee scholarship. Spearheaded by former board president Robin Rarie, the scholarship initiative was established in 2008 as part of the board's leadership gift to the campaign. The scholarship is geared toward upperclassmen who are campus leaders, i.e., Lion Ambassadors, Student Government Association officials and student club officers. The current board, headed by president Al Weber, hosted the gala, which was sponsored by the Burrell Group Inc., McCutcheon Enterprises Inc. and Industrial Automation and Controls Inc.

Penn State New Kensington continues the public phase of the fundraising campaign that helps create educational, cultural, and economic opportunities that campus students and community residents need.

The campaign is a University-wide effort to raise $2 billion by June 2014. New Kensington is responsible for $3 million of the total. During the private phase of the campaign that began in 2007, and during the current public phase that began in 2010, New Kensington has raised $1.8 million, which is 60 percent of its total.
 
Plans are underway for the 2012 edition of the gala, which is set for Friday, Sept. 28.

For more on the "For the Future" campaign and giving to the campus, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Giving/givetoday.htm

Business professor Rujirutana Mandhachitara, known as "Dr. A" in the classroom,
put in the winning bid for the "Wine Country Basket," donated by Bob Schmidt,
immediate past president of the campus Advisory Board.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

GALA SPONSORS
McCutcheon Enterprises Inc., Calvin McCutcheon

Industrial Automation & Control, Robert "Doc" Mueller

Thank You
To the following donors for
making our auction a success:

Leed’s
Barb Arnold
Al and Kim Weber
Valos Candy Co.
Trib Total Media
Development Office
Continuing Education Office
Raymond Gretz and Karen Fassinger
Hill Crest Country Club
Admissions and Business/Finance Offices
Elizabeth S. Blissell Library
Pittsburgh CLO
Fairmont Pittsburgh
Office of Student Affairs
Office of Student Activities
Seven Mountains Wine Cellars
Century 21 American Heritage Realty
Chancellor’s Office
Department of Athletics
True Value Hardware, Sarver
Freilino’s Service
Donna and Terry Speer
Sodini and Co.
Stephen Simpson Gallery
H.J. Heinz Co.
Giant Eagle Inc.
West Interior Services
Starbucks
USA Fitness and Chiropractic
Tom and Pam Wilczek
St. Margaret Mary Church
Chari’s Styling Salon
John Welch
Pittsburgh Irish Classical Theatre
Burrell Rotary
W.L. Roegnick Co.
Villa Balanca
Seita Jewelers
Yute’s Ideal Cleaning
Alle-Kiski Alumni Society
Kevin and Sarah Snider
First National Bank
PNC Bank
Premiere Jewelry – Bonnie Lantz
JG’s Tarentum Station Grille
Pittsburgh Public Theater
Birdsfoot Golf Club
Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
Highland Tire
Shamey’s Gulf Service
Patrick and Mardelle Kopnicky
Venture Outdoors
The Frick Pittsburgh
Bloom’s Florist
Spa Life-Monroeville
Doc and Linda Mueller
Community Market
Bob and Nancy Schmidt
Mike Bonk
Joe Hughes and Penn State Golf Courses

KHANJAN MEHTA IS GUEST LECTURER
"Humanitarian Engineering and Social Entrepreneurship Ventures in East Africa”
Noon, Friday, Oct. 28, Science Building, Room 140

Penn State New Kensington continues its "Countries of Focus" program at noon, Friday, Oct. 28, in Room 140 of the Science Building, with a lecture by Khanjan Mehta, director of the Humanitarian Engineering and Social Entrepreneurship program at Penn State University Park.

The lecture is a part of a program that celebrates the culture and heritage of Kenya and Tanzania. Mehta's talk, "Humanitarian Engineering and Social Entrepreneurship Ventures in East Africa,” examines a program he helped to create that connects rural populations in Kenya and Tanzania with doctors in nearby cities using “telemedicine.” The project uses medical diagnostic equipment along with existing cell phone networks to create a health monitoring system. According to estimates, 97 percent of East Africans have access to a mobile phone.

Sponsored by the Honors program and the International Committee at Penn State New Kensington, the lectures are a part of "Countries of Focus: Kenya and Tanzania," the year-long campus celebration of international cultures. The lectures are free to the public.

For the past five years, the campus has embarked on the promotion of greater awareness and understanding of world issues, international trends and global policy debates. Each year, the campus adopts a country or region of the world to inspire teaching and scholarship. Students, faculty and staff will explore and reflect on various aspects of Kenya's and Tanzania's history, culture and economic, social and political reality.

For more information contact Bill Hamilton at 724-334-6717 or hw7@psu.edu via email.

For more on the "Country of Focus" program, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/InternationalPrograms/43845.htm online.

FORMER CAMPUS STUDENT HONORED WITH
PENN STATE'S MOST PRESTIGIOUS AWARD

Barbara J. Arnold, longtime member of the Penn State New Kensington Advisory Board and the Alle-Kiski Alumni Society, was recognized October 5 as a 2011 Alumni Fellow at Penn State University Park. Alumni Fellow is the most prestigious award given by the Penn State Alumni Association. Twenty-four alumni were feted this year with an awards dinner at the Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center.

Arnold is the third recipient from the campus. Charles Carson, former president of the campus Advisory Board, was honored in 2002, and Robert Arbuckle, former campus executive officer, received the award in 2004. The award is given to alumni who, as leaders in their professional fields, return to the University Park campus to share their expertise with students, faculty and administrators.

Arnold is the founder and president of PrepTech Inc., an engineering services and mineral processing equipment company in Apollo, Pa. Her company offers engineering services to coal companies and offers cyclones, spirals, froth flotation columns, and filter presses to the coal and mineral processing industry. The company is also the U.S. representative for Multotec Process Equipment and PrepQuip, both from the Republic of South Africa.

Her research and development experience--which has included projects for government, industry funding agencies, and private companies--has been in the areas of coal cleaning, coal handling, coal blending, coal cleaning characterizations, and flowsheet evaluations.

An author of more than 50 publications, as well as numerous technical reports, Arnold chairs the Coal & Energy Division of the Society for Mining, Metallurgy, and Exploration (SME). She is also on the editorial boards of Mining Engineering, Coal Preparation: A Multinational Journal, and the International Journal of Mineral Processing.

Arnold was honored with the 2006 Society for Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration Distinguished Member Award. She received the J. W. Woomer Young Engineer Award from the Coal Division in 1992 and received the Henry DeWitt Smith Trust of AIME Scholarship for Graduate Studies in Mineral Engineering for 1985–86.

Arnold is a member and past president of Graduates of Earth and Mineral Sciences (GEMS) Alumni Society and co-chaired the private phase of the New Kensington campus’ “For the Future” campaign. In addition to her service, Arnold has supported Penn State in a variety of campus projects.

She established the Student Leadership Development Fund in 1999 to support awards, guest speakers and travel related to student leadership programs. In 2008, she created the Barbara J. Arnold Global Initiatives Program Support Fund that promotes cultural awareness and diversity enhancement.

Arnold's roots to Penn State New Kensington go back to 1978 when she attended the campus for two years before earning her bachelor's (1982), master's (1985) and doctorate (1989) degrees at Penn State University Park.

As a student at New Kensington, Arnold was a scholarship recipient and president of the Student Government Association. She was honored with the Walker Award that is given to the student whose outstanding qualities of character, scholarship and leadership contribute to the prestige of the campus. Arnold continues to be active on both the New Kensington and the University Park campuses.

A life member of the Penn State Alumni Association, Arnold lives in Apollo, Pa.

The Alumni Fellow program is administered by the alumni association in cooperation with the University’s academic colleges, campuses and the Office of the President. Alumni are nominated by a college or campus as leaders in their professional fields and accept an invitation from the President of the University to return to campus to share their expertise with students, faculty and administrators. Each Alumni Fellow received a commemorative award, designed and hand cast by Jeanne Stevens-Sollman, an acclaimed sculptor and medalist and an Alumni Fellow.

The PSAA is the largest dues-paying alumni association in the world with more than 165,000 members. Established in 1870, the Alumni Association strives to connect alumni to the University and to each other, provide valuable benefits to members and support the University’s mission of teaching, research and service.

WHOLE BLOOD OR APHERESIS METHODS
AVAILBLE AT BIANNUAL COMMUNITY EVENT
9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 28, Art Gallery

LOCAL RESIDENTS ENCOURGED TO GIVE A PINT

Students, faculty, staff, alumni and the local residents have two donating options at Penn State New Kensington's biannual Community Blood Drive from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 26, in the Art Gallery.

Donors can choose between the whole blood or apheresis methods. Both methods are safe and both draw approximately a pint of fluid from the donors.

The whole blood method is the typical method where the blood is drawn manually, collected in a pint bag, and stored unprocessed. It is later separated into red blood cells and plasma.

The apheresis method draws blood from the donor, separates it using a centrifuge or a filter, stores the desired part, and returns the rest to the donor. This process is done with a machine specifically designed for this purpose.

The Alle-Kiski Medical Center Blood Bank will collect, store and deliver the blood. Donors of all blood types from the campus and the local community are encouraged to help increase the blood supply in the Alle-Kiski Valley. Last fall's donations totaled 54 units, the second-highest total in campus history.

Appointments are not necessary as walk-ins are welcome. A free cholesterol screening is available to each donor. For more information about the blood drive, contact Elaine Zarichnak at emz3@psu.edu or 724-334-6066.

"A VOYAGE TO GLOBAL BUSINESS ISLANDS"
9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 2, Conference Center

Prospective students interested in global business can learn about the complexities of international markets from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 2, in the Conference Center at Penn State New Kensington.

"A Voyage to Global Business Islands" is an interactive program that explores the global business environment. Participants can learn about effective work habits, the currency trading market and adapting and communicating in an international cultural setting.

The free program includes four workshops, a tour of the campus and lunch with current students, faculty, staff and alumni.

The workshop will be led by campus faculty: Yang Zu, assistant professor of business administration; Frank Santimauro, instructor in business administration; Michael McGinnis, associate professor of business administration; and R. Mandhachitara, associate professor of business administration. Penn State New Kensington offers a bachelor's degree in business and an associate degree in business administration.

To register for the program, call 724-334-LION. Space is limited and the RSVP deadline is Oct. 21.

For more on admissions events at the campus, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions/admevents.htm online.

For more on the campus business program, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/Degrees/business_welcome.htm

"A Voyage to Global Business Islands"
Program

9:00–9:15 a.m.
Registration and Welcome

9:15–9:45 a.m.
“Willpower - the HABIT Strategy”
This session will introduce the H.A.B.I.T. strategy to help you cultivate effective work habits that transcend national boundaries.
Dr. Yang Xu, Assistant Professor of Business Administration

9:45-10:15 a.m.
“Everybody's Money: A Voyage of Discovery”
A peek into the murky world of the (four TRILLION dollars a day!) currency trading market.
Frank Santimauro, Instructor in Business Administration

10:15-10:45 a.m.
Campus Tour by Lion Ambassadors

10:45-11:15 a.m.
“Adapting to International Culture”
Learn how to better relate to others at school, at home, and while traveling.
Dr. Michael McGinnis, Associate Professor of Business Administration

11:15–12:15 p.m.
“Mocktail Party Simulation: The Global Communication Challenges”
A fun simulation that demonstrates the complexity and problems of cross-cultural communication in an international business context.
Dr. R. Mandhachitara, Associate Professor of Business Administration

12:15–1:00 p.m.
Lunch with Panels of Alumni, Current Students and Faculty

1:00 p.m.
Closing Remarks

ALLE-KISKI ALUMNI SOCIETY'S
TENTH ANNUAL EVENT SUPPORTS CAMPUS PROJECTS
1:00-4:00 p.m., Sunday, March 25
Wildlife Lanes, Lower Burrell, Pa.

The Alle-Kiski Society's tenth annual Bowl-a-thon is set for 1:00 to 4:00p.m. Sunday, March 25, at Wildlife Lanes in Lower Burrell, Pa.

Hosted by the local society of the Penn State Alumni Association, the tournament is open to alumni, students, parents, faculty, staff and friends of Penn State. The entry fee is $20 and includes three games and shoe rental. Four- or five-person teams may sign up, or individuals may sign up and be assigned to a short-handed team.

The bowl-a-thon is the alumni group's major fundraiser in the spring and the proceeds support the society's pledge for campus projects. Lane sponsorships are available for $50 and $100. For information, call John Spadaro 724-337-8536.

For more on the alumni society, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Alumni/alumorg.htm online.

PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS CAN MEET
CURRENT STUDENTS AND FACULTY; ATTEND CLASSES
8:45 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 26

Get a glimpse of college life first-hand at the Penn State New Kensington campus from 8:45 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 26, as a part of the "Be a Penn State Student for a Day" program.

High school students and adult learners can sit in on college classes, interact with current students and take in the campus' atmosphere. Participants will learn about admissions requirements and the financial aid process. Attendees can enjoy a free lunch in Cafe 780.

To reserve a spot, call 724-334-LION or 888-968-PAWS.

For more on admissions events, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions/admevents.htm?cn11 online.

PENN STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC CONFERENCE

Men's Soccer
Home, Saturday, Oct. 15, 1:00 p.m.
vs. Penn College, PSNK Soccer Field

Women's Volleyball
Away, Saturday, Oct. 15, 
Noon at Penn State Greater Allegheny

Away, Sunday, Oct. 16
Noon at Penn State Fayette

The Penn State New Kensington women's volleyball concludes its regular season on the road with two Penn State University Athletic Conference matches: noon, Saturday, Oct. 15, at Penn State Greater Allegheny and noon, Sunday, Oct. 16, at Penn State Fayette. The Lady Lions are 4-6 in the PSUAC and 4-7 overall. The men's soccer team returns home for its regular season finale, a PSUAC match at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 15 against Penn College. The team is 4-3 in the PSUAC and 5-6 overall. For more on campus sports, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/sports.htm online.

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FOR THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN
Gifts from corporate supporters count toward the goals of For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students. This University-wide fundraising effort is directed toward a shared vision of Penn State as the most comprehensive, student-centered research university in America. The University is engaging Penn State’s alumni and friends as partners in achieving six key objectives: ensuring student access and opportunity, enhancing honors education, enriching the student experience, building faculty strength and capacity, fostering discovery and creativity, and sustaining the University’s tradition of quality. The campaign’s top priority is keeping a Penn State degree affordable for students and families. The For the Future campaign is the most ambitious effort of its kind in Penn State’s history, with the goal of securing $2 billion in private support by 2014. Penn State New Kensington's goal is $3 million.

FINAL ROUND PSUAC TEAM SCORES
Penn State Hazelton 3331-324-655
Penn State Mont Alto 326-333-659
Penn College 346-326-671
Penn State New Kensington 340-344-684
Penn State Wilkes-Barre 353-347-700
Penn State Schuylkill 360-368-728
Penn State Greater Allegheny 370-362-732

PSUAC TOP FIVE INDIVIDUALS
Nick Tristani (Hazleton) 79-76-155
Cody Dinger (PSNK) 79-80-159
Alex Baker (PSNK) 76-84-160
Chase King (Mont Alto) 80-82-162
Pat Blaney (Hazleton) 80-83-163
Alex Howe (Penn College) 77-86-16

FINAL ROUND USCAA TEAM SCORES
Lindenwood University 303-294-597
Rochester College 302-316-618
Apprentice School 316-316-332
New Hampshire Technical 312-335-647
Penn State Hazelton 331-324-655
Penn State Mont Alto 326-333-659
Penn College 346-326-671
SUNY-ESF 331-341-672
Penn State New Kensington 340-344-684
SUNY-Canton 349-347-696
Penn State Wilkes-Barre 353-347-700
Penn State Schuylkill 360-368-728
Penn State Greater Allegheny 370-362-732
Southern Virginia University 375-364-739
University of Dallas 357-WD

USCAA TOP FIVE INDIVIDUALS
Tommy Stirling (Sou. Maine) 72-68-140
Bo Cook ( Lindenwood) 75-69-144
Ben Hunter (Apprentice) 73-75-148
Khris Bartling (Rochester) 72-78-150
Justin Robinson (Lindenwood) 73-77-150

USCAA ACADEMIC ALL AMERICAN
Matt Knapp, Penn State New Kensington

 
Cody Baker            Matt Knapp                    Alex Baker                             Nate Vertosick

Matt Knapp, Alex Baker, Cody Dinger and Nate Vertosick helped lead the golf team to a
ninth-place finish in the national championships.

PSUAC GOLF CONFERENCE
West Division
Greater Allegheny, Fayette, Mont Alto, New Kensington, Penn College, Shenango
East Division
Abington, Brandywine, Hazelton, Lehigh Valley, Schuylkill, Wilkes-Barre

For more information contact Bill Woodard at 724-334-6069.

2011 OUTLOOK
VETERAN SQUAD POISED FOR RUN AT CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP

Youth must be served, says the old English proverb. It is an aphorism that is beneficial to the Penn State New Kensington golf team; just not this year.

Anchored by six upperclassmen, four returning starters and a pair of former lettermen, a veteran New Kensington Lions team is poised to make a run at the Penn State University Athletic Conference championship.

Unlike a year ago, when freshmen dominated the roster, and inexperience and uncertainty overshadowed skill, the 2011 squad oozes talent, confidence and maturity. To borrow a phrase from former Baltimore Orioles manager Earl Weaver, the team has "deep-depth," and is solid from top to bottom.

"We have a core group of five players who have the ability to go low at each match," said Bill Woodard, in his tenth year as head coach. "Shooting in the 70s is no longer an achievement, it's an expectation."

The top two seeds for the New Kensington Lions will be a rota of sophomores, Alex Baker (St. Joseph's High School) and Cody Dinger (West Shamokin). Both can consistently shoot in the mid-70s and will share the top spot throughout the season.

Baker was the New Kensington's top finisher at the 2010 United States Collegiate Athletic Association national championships with a two-day total of 84-82-166. He was the team's most consistent player, averaging 83 strokes per round with a low of 82. Dinger was the scoring leader during the regular season, averaging 82.6 while posting rounds of 79, 80 and 81. Both have a nice touch around the green.

"Alex and Cody are aggressive long-hitters whose short games help them recover from stray shots," said Woodard, who doubles as alumni and public relations specialist at the campus."Now that they are more experienced, their course management skills are moving to the forefront, and they aren't relying solely on strength off the tee. They are thinking their way around the course and that will lead to lower scores."

Senior Matt Knapp moves up one spot to the No. 3 player. Last year, his first on the team, Knapp had an 86 average. Since then, he has honed his game and is developing into a player who can break 80 regularly. The 44 year-old Kiski Area High School product is the elder statesman on the team. Prior to entering the business administration program in 2008, Knapp served 17 years in the Army.

"Matt has good length off the tee and is handy around the green," said Woodard. "He doesn’t get rattled by a bad shot and can recover to keep it no worse than bogey. He can  go low at any time, and that is what the team needs to make a run at the conference title."

Settled in at the four slot is senior Nathan Vertosick (St. Joseph's, CCAC-Boyce). Vertosick had a career-low of 83 a year ago and is closing in on his first round in the 70s.

"Nate would be a three on other teams," said Woodard. "He provides insurance in the back of the line-up and can step-up if some of the other players falter."

Battling for the last two rungs on the team ladder is senior Bob Adams (Highlands) and sophomore Nicola DeIuliis (Valley). Adams was a member of the 2007 team that finished second in the Penn State University Athletic Conference championships. DeIuliis is progressing under the tutelage of assistant coach John Mandak and will be spotted in the line-up throughout the season.

Mandak, owner of Valos Candy Co. in Arnold, Pa., begins his second season as volunteer swing coach. He has a keen eye for technique and works with the players to correct swing faults. In addition, he offers players sound advice on executing a variety of shots.  Ron Land, associate professor of engineering at the campus, has served as assistant head coach since 2000.

Last year, Penn State New Kensington finished 10th in the national tournament and fifth in the conference tournament. During the regular season, the team finished third in the PSUAC-West with a 9-10 record.

The New Kensington Lions open the season at 11 a.m. Friday, Sept. 2, at the Shenango Classic at Tam O'Shanter Golf Course in Hermitage, Pa. The tournament features all six teams from the PSUAC –West division--host Penn State Shenango, Penn College, Mont Alto, Greater Allegheny and Fayette.

The team is entered into six tournaments, highlighted by a home match, the Bernie Guss Invitational, at the Links at Spring Church in Apollo. The postseason, Oct. 10-11, features the PSUAC conference and United States Collegiate Athletic Association national championships at the Penn State Blue Course in State College.
In a collegiate golf tournament, team scores are determined by the total strokes. Teams seed players one through six and group them with the opponent's seeded players. The best four scores out of the six are counted toward the total.

Penn State New Kensington competes in the PSUAC and the USCAA. The PSUAC conference comprises 15 teams from Penn State campuses across the state. The USCAA is a national organization that is geared to provide athletic opportunities to small colleges -- those with enrollments of less than 1,500. Established in 2001, the USCAA was incorporated to provide an opportunity for members to compete on an equal level of competition with schools of similar size and athletic programs. Headquartered in Newport News, Va., the organization has more than 50 member institutions in 24 states, stretching from Maine to California. New Kensington joined the USCAA in 2005.

2010 RECORD: 9-10 PSUAC; 5th Place

PSUAC GOLF CONFERENCE
West Division
Greater Allegheny, Fayette, Mont Alto, New Kensington, Penn College, Shenango
East Division
Abington, Brandywine, Hazelton, Lehigh Valley, Schuylkill, Wilkes-Barre

For more information contact Bill Woodard at 724-334-6069.

There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing. ~Alfred Wainwright

The rain dampened campus grounds, but not the community spirit as the third annual Penn State New Kensington Fall Festival went on as scheduled on Oct 1. Even with a stable of Penn State meteorologists from around the nation (Penn State alumni make up 25 percent of the country's meteorologists), the campus could not ameliorate the forecast of showers and 40 degrees throughout the day.

"Despite the rain, the families, children and rock fans who braved the weather had a great time," said Theresa Bonk, chair of the festival committee. "The Fall Festival is our way of saying thanks to the Alle-Kiski community and our fall festival sponsors and business partners."

Among the myriad of activities, the bed race, a staple of the festival, was the only casualty of the weather. Despite a quorum of five "mudders"--three campus students groups; a Leechburg High School coterie; and a squad put together by race sponsor Don Ryan of Century 21 American Heritage Realty--the 20-team challenge was cancelled due to safety concerns regarding drenched competitors navigating a nonamphibious mobile sleeping apparatus through slick turns on a moistened tarmac.

The highlight of the festival was a free concert by the Clarks. After moving the main stage indoors, more than 400 fans were treated to two hours of music by the iconic Pittsburgh band. Their American rock sound reverberated throughout the Athletics Center which is on its way to becoming the Fillmore East of western Pa. Discussions are underway to make the Athletics Center the permanent home for the annual concert.

"Although the rain did keep some folks away, the center was packed, and the people enjoyed the Clarks and the opening band Bishop Clay," said Bonk, director of student affairs.  "This was the first rock concert in the Athletics Center, and we hope that this is the start of a longstanding tradition during the Fall Festival."

The festival opened at 10 a.m. with the dedication of a new campus landmark, a three-tier water fountain that honors the legacy of Larry Pollock who served the campus for 35 years as chancellor and director of student affairs. More than 70 students, alumni, friends and former faculty and staff attended the ceremony.  Guest speaker Joe Defilippi, a member of the campus Advisory Board, addressed students in the audience and told them that the fountain was for them. He said it symbolizes the journey that students must take to make their dreams come true.  

"On close inspection, the streams at the top level are smooth and tranquil while those at the lower level are rough and turbulent," said Defilippi, retired director of product technology research for U.S. Steel.  "Together they are reminders that the journey through life will be a combination of smooth times and rough times."

The fountain was made possible by the financial support of Defilippi, Raymond Mastre, faculty, staff, alumni and friends of the campus.

 The bulk of the community activities started at 11 a.m. with a car cruise, food vendors, craft vendors and the kids' zone. Only the children were sheltered from the weather.

Eleven cars and a motorcycle took part in the car cruise. Owners swapped stories about their prized possessions, and casual observers as well as classic enthusiasts were given first-hand, under-the-hood tours. Many of the vehicles came from the garages of alumni, faculty and staff.  Nick Chevrolet, one of the cruise sponsors, unveiled thee 2012 models: Chevy Volt, Chevy Cruze and Chevy Silverado. Commemorative dash plaques were given to the participants, and People's Choice citations were awarded in six categories:

#Best Truck: Garry Arcurio, 1926 Chevy One Ton
#Best Restored, Bud Gibbons, 1946 Chevy Truck
#Cruise Favorite, Darwin Stivenson, 1982 Yamaha 650 Maxim Motorcycle
#Best Sports Car: Stephen Miharik, 1998 Chevy Corvette
#Best Custom: Ronald Patz, 1947 Chevy Sedan
#Best Original: Kevin Churik, 2010 Ford Mustang GT

The car cruise was sponsored by Gatto Cycle Shop, Glenn Bush Ford, Highland Tire and Nick Chevrolet.

Twelve craft booths and five food vendors set up shop in the upper parking lot. Crafters included purveyors of jewelry, t-shirts, kitchen tools, Steelers gear, bikes, wooden furniture, glass pendants, information on credit union accounts, and Penn State merchandise. The food booths featured peanuts and cotton candy, haluski, hot sausage and funnel cakes, ice cream, and beef brisket and pulled pork sandwiches. While the size of the crowd waxed and waned with the severity of the weather, sales were brisk for Jerry's Custard, Fat Daddy's Roadside BBQ, St. Margaret Mary Roman Catholic Church funnel cakes, Barb and Dave Peanuts, and Polished By Time jewelry.

More than 90 children had their fair share of the fun as the Kids' Zone activities featured an inflatable jungle bounce house, balloon artist, circus train, face painting and crafts. The featured attraction was a special exhibit by Tom Kessenich called "Snakes Alive," an interactive live reptile and amphibian show. The most popular activity was painting mini-pumpkins. Some of the kids even participated in a performance by the Ibeji African Drum Ensemble.

"The Ibeji performance was the special treat of the day," Bonk said. "Parents, toddlers, teens and our students learned a special African dance led by Beatrice Mitchell of the band."

While food connoisseurs patrolled outside, Penn State football fans cheered the Nittany Lions inside. Coach Joe Paterno's squad defeated Indiana on a big screen TV inside the alumni tent on the lawn of the Engineering Building. Sponsored by the Alle-Kiski Society of the Penn State Alumni Association, the tent, dubbed "Alumni Central," brought together alumni and friends to watch some gridiron action, do some Monday-morning quarterbacking, and enjoy the camaraderie as well as the refreshments.

"It was an excellent opportunity for all Penn Staters to reconnect with the campus," said Ashley Traini, co-chair of the alumni event and a 2005 graduate.

Planning for the next fall festival is underway. Chancellor Kevin Snider sees the festival as a conduit to the Alle-Kiski valley. According to Snider, the event is "an opportunity for the campus to re-establish itself as the community’s University." Since Snider assumed the chancellorship, other activities and programs have been geared to the public. The campus has engaged residents by hosting job fairs, community-service organizations, and a regional economic development program that brought together local businesses and government officials to achieve economic growth through public-private partnerships.

"I think the festival has started the ball rolling, and we expect to grow each year," Snider said. "It is the kind of event that will build steam and become a major regional event that helps recruitment, fundraising, and support from the community."

For photos from the festival, visit
http://psnk.smugmug.com/Events/Fall-Festival-2011/19327772_jwfpB5#1517005319_Hgvdcqw

OPEN TO PSNK STUDENTS
2:00 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 18,
Science Building, Room 138

2012 Spring Break
New York City Trip
Mar. 4-7

Penn State New Kensington students are invited to attend an information session at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 18, in the room 138 of the Science Building. The campus is sponsoring a trip to New York City during spring break, Mar. 4-7, 2012.

The package features three nights in a Manhattan hotel, and four days of entertaining and educational activities, including a tour of the city, a Broadway show, a daytrip to the Museum of Modern Art, a tour of Liberty Island, and a visit to the United Nations. Students will have time to explore the city on their own.

“New York City is a great place to visit,” said Gary Heberling, instructor in information sciences and technology at the campus. “Diversity is all around you. And to think that we are so close to one of most fascinating cities in the world.  This will be a great experience for students at Penn State New Kensington.”

The trip is being planned by the campus' Travel committee. Heberling, Amy Rustic, reference librarian, and Abhinav Aima, instructor in communications, are on the committee.

"New York is a vibrant and exciting city to visit,” Rustic said. “I think the students on this trip will learn a lot and see many interesting places."

The trip is open to Penn State New Kensington students. The cost is $920, and financial support is available to students through campus resources.

"I believe this trip will be valuable to any student interested in exploring a multicultural and multi-ethnic environment, such as New York," Aima said.

For more information, contact Heberling, glh10@psu.edu, Rustic, aer123@psu.edu or Aima, aka11@psu.edu via email.

ALLE-KISKI JOB FAIR

SPONSORED BY
PENN STATE NEW KENSINGTON AND
PENNSYLVANIA CAREERLINK OF ALLE-KISKI

More than 400 prospective employees and employers came together at Penn State New Kensington for the fourth annual Alle-Kiski Job Fair on Oct. 6 in the Athletics Center.

A record 60 regional companies were represented and 110 representatives were on hand to interview local job seekers and to provide career options for current students and recent graduates, as well as those in the community who were seeking a change in vocation.

"Once again we had the opportunity to provide the community with the chance to meet local employers who are hiring," said Jim Shields, career services coordinator at the New Kensington campus and a member of the committee that organized the fair. "There are jobs out there, and I think it’s great the campus can play a role in meeting the needs of the community." 

The event featured full- and part-time employment, internships and co-op opportunities, both regionally and nationally. Employment opportunities were available in a variety of fields, including health care, finance, retail and manufacturing. The job fair was sponsored by Penn State New Kensington and Pennsylvania CareerLink of Alle-Kiski.

"I’m glad to be able to provide these resources and local contacts to our students and graduates," Shields said. "Through this continued partnership with the CareerLink, we are able to help connect employers and job seekers in this region."

The next job fair is sponsored by Western Pennsylvania Career Services (WESTPACS) Association. The College Job and Internship Fair is set for Wednesday, Nov. 2, at the Monroeville Convention Center in Monroeville, Pa. Recruiters from a wide variety of industries, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations will attend. The fair is geared toward fall 2011 and spring 2012 graduates and recent alumni with program certificates and degrees in all majors.

"Job seekers will be able to discuss current openings and network with employers hiring in more than 20 career fields," said Shields. "It is the premier job fair for college students and graduates in Western Pennsylvania.”

Sponsored by the WestPACS Consortium of 44 colleges and universities in western Pennsylvania, the job fair is open to students and graduates from two- and four-year degree programs. Preregistration is available at http://www.westpacs.org/REGISTER.aspx online.

For more on career services at Penn State New Kensington, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentServices/CareerServices/careers.htm online.

The recipe for a successful job fair: 60 companies, 110 reps, and 400 job seekers.

COUNTRIES OF FOCUS PROGRAM
Nina Jablonski
Noon, Friday, Oct. 14
"Human Origins Research at Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania”

Robin Wiszowaty
Noon, Wednesday, Oct. 19
"My Maasai Life: From Suburbia to Savannah"

Khanjan Mehta
Noon, Friday, Oct. 28
"Humanitarian Engineering and Social Entrepreneurship Ventures in East Africa”

Penn State New Kensington begins its "Countries of Focus" program with three lectures, Oct. 14, 19 and 28, celebrating the culture and heritage of Kenya and Tanzania.

Nina Jablonski, professor of biological anthropology at Penn State, is the first guest lecturer at noon Friday, Oct. 14, in Room 140 of the Science Building. Jablonski's lecture, “Human Origins Research at Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania,” explores one of the oldest prehistoric sites in the world. The gorge is located on the Serengeti plains in northern Tanzania, and is considered by many scientists to be the cradle of mankind. Excavation of the site has uncovered tools that are believed to be more than 2.6 million years old. The inhabitants were not modern humans but  primitive hominids, a group comprised of chimpanzees, gorillas, orangutans and humans.

The next guest speaker is Robin Wiszowaty, author of "My Maasai Life: From Suburbia to Savannah," at noon Wednesday, Oct. 19, in the campus Forum Theatre. Wiszowaty lives in her adoptive country of Kenya where she serves as program director with Free the Children, a non-profit organization that helps children to make a difference in their worlds.  As director, she implements long-term development projects in partnership with local communities. Wiszowaty's book was the selected book for the Freshman Summer Reading Program at the campus. The program was instituted at the campus in 2005 to encourage reading and critical thinking and to provide a shared experience among new students. First-year students at the campus had a homework assignment over the summer -- read a book, chosen by a committee of campus faculty and staff and prepare to discuss it during orientation. Small group discussions are slated with fellow students, faculty and staff throughout the semester.

Khanjan Mehta, director of the Humanitarian Engineering and Social Entrepreneurship program at Penn State University Park, will give a talk at the New Kensington campus at noon, Friday, Oct. 28, in Room 140 of the Science Building. Mehta's lecture, "Humanitarian Engineering and Social Entrepreneurship Ventures in East Africa,” examines a program he helped to create that connects rural populations in Kenya and Tanzania with doctors in nearby cities using “telemedicine.” The project uses medical diagnostic equipment along with existing cell phone networks to create a health monitoring system. According to estimates, 97 percent of East Africans have access to a mobile phone.

Sponsored by the Honors program and the International Committee at Penn State New Kensington, the lectures are a part of "Countries of Focus: Kenya and Tanzania," the year-long, campus celebration of international cultures. The lectures are free to the public.

For the past five years, the campus has embarked on the promotion of greater awareness and understanding of world issues, international trends and global policy debates. Each year, the campus adopts a country or region of the world to inspire teaching and scholarship. Students, faculty and staff will explore and reflect on various aspects of Kenya's and Tanzania's history, culture and economic, social and political reality.

For more information contact Bill Hamilton at 724-334-6717 or hw7@psu.edu via email.

For more on the "Country of Focus" program, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/InternationalPrograms/43845.htm online.

"PENN STATE A.M."
8:00 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 17

Penn State New Kensington's semiannual Alumni Breakfast is set for 8 a.m. Thursday, Nov 17, at the McCutcheon Enterprises Inc. in Apollo, Pa.

The morning social, officially called "Penn State A.M.," is an informal one-hour breakfast for Penn State alumni and friends who have the opportunity to get "inside the ropes" of the environmental services and waste management business. The free breakfast, with Happy Valley's famous "grilled stickies" highlighting the menu, features guest speaker Jack Crook from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.

Co-hosted by Calvin McCutcheon, president of the waste treatment company, and the Alle-Kiski Alumni Society, the event is geared to alumni who live and work in the greater Alle-Kiski Valley area. It is a chance to get together with old friends and receive an update on the current buzz at Penn State and the region.

For more information on the breakfast, contact Bill Woodard at 724-334-6049 or uxw1@psu.edu via email.

For more on McCutcheon Enterprises, visit http://www.completewastemgmt.com/ online.

NINA JABLONSKI,
WORLD RENOWN AUTHORITY ON PRIMATES
Noon, Friday, Oct. 14, Forum Theatre

Nina Jablonski, professor and department head of anthropology at Penn State, highlights Penn State New Kensington's October celebration of Kenya and Tanzania at noon on Friday, Oct. 14, in the Forum Theatre.

Jablonski's lecture, “Human Origins Research at Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania,” explores one of the oldest prehistoric sites in the world. The gorge is located on the Serengeti plains in northern Tanzania, and is considered by many scientists to be the cradle of mankind. Excavation of the site has uncovered tools and the fossils of pre-human primate species and early human species that are believed to be more than 2.6 million years old. The talk is free to the public.

A world-renown authority in primate evolution, the evolution of human skin color, the evolution of hominid bipedalism, and mammalian paleoecology, Jablonski is the author of "Skin: A Natural History," an overview of the evolution of the most visible feature of the human anatomy.

The book prompted an appearance on the cable TV show, "The Colbert Report," on the Comedy Central Network in 2007. A parody of a news show, "The Colbert Report" features Stephen Colbert as a fake right-wing political pundit. He features a wide variety of guests on his show, which has included well-known actors, authors, political personalities and others.

Sponsored by the Honors program and International Committee at Penn State New Kensington, the lecture is a part of "Countries of Focus: Kenya and Tanzania," the year-long, campus celebration of international cultures.

For the past five years, the campus has embarked on the promotion of greater awareness and understanding of world issues, international trends and global policy debates. Each year, the campus adopts a country or region of the world to inspire teaching and scholarship. This year, students, faculty and staff will explore and reflect on various aspects of history, culture and economic, social and political reality within Kenya and Tanzania.

The next guest lecturer is Robin Wiszowaty, author of "My Maasai Life: From Suburbia to Savannah," at noon Wednesday, Oct. 19, in the campus Forum Theatre. Wiszowaty lives in her adoptive country of Kenya where she serves as program director with Free the Children, a non-profit organization that helps children to make a difference in their worlds.  As director, she implements long-term development projects in partnership with local communities.

For more information contact Bill Hamilton at 724-334-6717 or hw7@psu.edu via email.

For more on the "Country of Focus" program, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/InternationalPrograms/43845.htm online.

ALLE-KISKI SOCIETY
6:30 p.m., Monday, Oct. 17,
Dingbats/Royal Gatherings, Pittsburgh Mills

The next meeting for the Alle-Kiski Society (AKS) of the Penn State Alumni Association is set for 6:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 17, at Dingbats Restaurant in the Galleria at Pittsburgh Mills.

The top agenda items are the TV football game party and a discussion of expanding events in the alumni tent at the campus' Fall Festival. Sponsored by AKS, the tent, dubbed "Alumni Central," brought together alumni, friends, faculty and staff to cheer the Nittany Lions to victory over Indiana on a big screen TV.

"It was an excellent opportunity for all Penn Staters to reconnect with the campus," said Ashley Traini, co-chair of the alumni event and a 2005 graduate.

All students, alumni and friends, especially recent Penn State graduates living in the Alle-Kiski Valley, are encouraged to attend the meeting and become involved in the society's activities. AKS hosts numerous alumni events throughout the year. The annual fall alumni breakfast is set for 8 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 17, at McCutcheon Enterprises Inc.

To more information on the breakfast, e-mail uxw1@psu.edu or call 724-334-6049.

For more about AKS, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Alumni/alumorg.htm?cn613 online.

GUEST SPEAKER NICK SMERKER
2:00 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 13, Conference Center, Room 12B

Media consultant Nick Smerker is the guest speaker at Penn State New Kensington's Media Commons open house at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 13, in the campus Conference Center.

Media Commons is a University-wide initiative to provide a variety of services to help students, faculty and staff produce and publish multimedia projects. The open house will include tours of the studio and presentations on how the studio supports teaching, learning and research.

Smerker, Penn State's travelling consultant for Media Commons, provides an overview of the facilities and the equipment. The informal presentation in the New Kensington studio, located on the lower level of the Conference Center, room 12B, is followed by question-and-answer sessions. The event is open to the public and no reservations are required.

The studio is equipped with an HD camera, studio lighting, green screen, and microphones, and can be utilized for video or audio productions. Consultants, training opportunities and audio/video production facilities are available to beginners as well as advanced users.

For information, contact Deborah Sillman at dys100@psu.edu via e-mail.

For more about Media Commons, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentServices/IT/mediacommons.htm online.

“Insight Forum” speaker series resumes in the spring
A talk on Pennsylvania politics by pollster Terry Madonna at Penn State New Kensington has been cancelled. Originally scheduled for Oct. 10, the talk was a part of the “Insight Forum,’ the campus’ speaker series. The series will resume in the spring.

Pollster Terry Madonna will bring his insights on the political landscape of Pennsylvania to Penn State New Kensington at 6:00 p.m. Monday, Oct. 10, in the campus Forum Theatre.

Madonna, professor of public affairs and director of the Center for Politics and Public Affairs at Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pa., is the guest speaker for "Insight Forum," the campus' lecture and discussion program that is geared to the local community.

The event is sponsored by the Faculty Speaker Series Endowment. The endowment was created in 2009 through the generosity of campus faculty, as well as alumni and friends of Penn State. The series brings matters of interest to the campus and the community. Local, regional and nationally-known guests talk about various aspects of American life and take questions from the audience.

Tickets for the Madonna talk are $10. Students with college or high school identification are admitted for free. The series is open to the public. General admission seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. For tickets, call 724-334-6056 or contact tms57@psu.edu via email.

ABOUT TERRY MADONNA
Whether it's breaking down the electability of Republican presidential aspirants, dissecting the re-election of President Obama or scrutinizing the elected representatives of the commonwealth, pollster Terry Madonna utilizes the current data and opinions at his disposal.

A regular commentator on radio and TV political shows, and a quotable source for newspapers and magazines, Madonna brings his insights on the 2011 political landscape of Pennsylvania to Penn State New Kensington at 6:00 p.m. Monday, Oct. 10, in the campus Forum Theatre. A reception to meet the speaker follows the program.

Madonna, director of the Franklin and Marshall Keystone Poll, makes a return engagement for "Insight Forum," the campus' lecture and discussion program that is geared to the local community. He spoke previously at the campus in spring 2010.

A professor of public affairs and director of the Center for Politics and Public Affairs at Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pa., Madonna earned a national reputation as founder of the 20-year old Keystone poll, the oldest survey produced exclusively in Pennsylvania. He polls for the Philadelphia Daily News, Times-Shamrock Newspapers, Pittsburgh Tribune Review, WGAL-TV (Lancaster), and WTAE-TV (Pittsburgh).

For more than 30 years, Madonna has taught and written about his academic specialties: American presidency, and American political parties and political behavior. As a pollster, he has written extensively about voters and voting behavior. In 2008, Franklin and Marshall College began a partnership with Hearst-Argyle Television to conduct national polls. Hearst owns 26 television stations, manages two others, and owns two radio stations. Madonna directs the poll.

Before joining the faculty at Franklin and Marshall in 2004, Madonna was professor and chair of the Government Department at Millersville University. He holds a doctorate in political history from the University of Delaware.

Madonna is the host of "Pennsylvania Newsmakers," a weekly statewide news and commentary program. He writes a biweekly political commentary column, “Politically Uncorrected,” for Politicspa.com, the state’s leading political Web site. Co-authored by Michael Young, the column appears in many state and national newspapers and on two national websites: stateline.org and realclearpolitics.com.

He is a regular panelist on the WPVI-TV (Philadelphia) commentary program, "Inside Story," and a frequent guest on many talk radio programs throughout the state and nation. In addition to his political analysis, Madonna is a public affair's commentator for the New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Philadelphia Inquirer, Christian Science Monitor, National Public Radio, CNN, ABC News and CBS News.  He has appeared on CNN, CBS News, ABC News, C-Span, Fox News, MSNBC and NBC News.

Madonna has appeared in seminars and discussions with diplomats and newspaper reporters from around the world. In addition, Madonna has moderated gubernatorial, congressional, state legislative and school board forums, and debates for various organizations. He is the author of numerous publications in the fields of American history, American government, and American politics.

Madonna has served on numerous governmental boards and commissions: Governor Edward Rendell’s Higher Education Advisory Board, the Benjamin Franklin Partnership Board (appointed by former Governor Dick Thornburgh), and the Board of Embreeville State Hospital (appointed by former Governor Milton Shapp).  He served in the early 1970's as a Lancaster County Commissioner. Currently, he serves on the Education Policy and Leadership Center board.

Madonna has received numerous awards and honors, including Distinguished Professor award by the Pennsylvania Department of Education, the President’s Medallion at Millersville University, and a special commendation for scholarship and leadership from the Board of Governors of the State System of Higher Education.

Additionally, he has been named an “Outstanding Speaker of the Year” by the Speech Communication Society of Pennsylvania, has served as a Commonwealth Speaker for the Pennsylvania Humanities Council, and was given the Daniel Roselle Award by the Middle States Council for the Social Studies.

Hugh G. McRandal Jr., a former student at Penn State New Kensington, was inducted Sept. 30 as the 2011 member of the Arch Recognition Society at the annual Chancellor's Gala.

McRandal, a marine forecaster for the Ocean Prediction Center of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, joins the 23 charter members who were honored at the gala a year ago. The donor society's membership is reserved for campus supporters who have contributed a total of $25,000 to the campus.

The Upper Marlboro, Maryland, resident made an estate gift to the campus in September to establish the "Hugh G. McRandal Jr. Honors Award." The endowment will fund scholarships for campus students who excel in the Honors program. Students in the program have a record of academic achievement and a commitment to scholarship.

McRandal is a 1974 Penn State graduate with a bachelor's degree in meteorology. He earned a master's in meteorology from the University of Utah in 1980. He has been a marine forecaster with the National Weather Service since 1989. The Ocean Prediction Center is one of the National Centers for Environmental Prediction's original six service centers.  Through the prediction center, the National Weather Service issues warnings and forecasts for portions of the North Atlantic and North Pacific oceans.

The Arch Society was founded in 2010 and named for the arch that stands at the front entrance to the campus. Designed by Henry Noestheden and donated by Alcoa, the aluminum arch has been a campus landmark since 1976. A symbol of the history and spirit of the campus, the arch is a significant tribute to the campus’s achievements. It was the inspiration for the creation of the new society that supports the needs and programs of Penn State New Kensington students.

"The arch sits at the top of a set of stairs and forms a portal to the campus," said Barb Arnold, who is a charter member of the society. "It leads new students upward to find their path, their adventure and their new frontier."

McRandal received a print of a painting of the arch by Bud Gibbons, professor of visual arts at the campus. The gala was sponsored by the Hyman Family Foundation, the campus' 2011 Corporate/Foundation Partner of the Year.

Membership in the Arch Society is open to alumni and friends of the campus. For more information, contact Donna Speer, Director of Development, at 724-334-6057.

ARCH SOCIETY
CHARTER MEMBERS 2010
THE BOOTH FAMILY
RICHARD P. SIMMONS
JIM AND CARMEN MOORE
THE STEIN FAMILY
JOSEPH AND BONNIE DEFILIPPI
THE HAUPIN FAMILY
FLOYD R. GANASSI
ROGER AND BARBARA CLAYPOOLE
SARAH G. YEAMANS
ROBERT L. MAYER JR.
JIM AND EILEEN KOPELMAN
BILL AND CLAUDIA HARBAUGH
JOE AND EVELYN KREPLEY
DR. ALLEN S. AND JUDITH RUSSELL
REGINA QUARATRO MAGUIRE
DR. BARBARA J. ARNOLD
ROBERT AND IRENE BOZZONE
MARDELLE AND PATRICK KOPNICKY
STANLEY AND LOIS JACOBS
BERNIE AND GERRY GUSS
HAZEL L. HUG
HERMAN ISRAEL
ELISABETH S. BLISSELL

2011
HUGH G. MCRANDAL JR

SAMUEL HYMAN ESTABLISHED
SCHOLARSHIP AT CAMPUS IN 1979
Foundation has supported Honors program,
Blissell Library, Student Funds, Faculty Speaker Series

The Hyman Family Foundation was named the third recipient of Penn State New Kensington's "Corporate/Foundation Partner of the Year" award Sept. 30, at the Chancellor's Gala at Hill Crest Country Club.

Kevin Snider, chancellor of the campus, presented the award to the Hyman family for its support of the University and the campus during the past three decades. The inscription on the plaque denotes the family's "leadership, support, and assistance in the advancement, growth, and development of Penn State New Kensington and the surrounding communities." Lois Rubin, an officer of the foundation and associate professor of English at the campus, accepted the award on behalf of the foundation.

The Hyman Family Foundation was founded in 1957 by Pittsburgh businessman Samuel Hyman, who was committed to organizations in the fields of higher education, health services, and human services. In the 1920s and early ‘30s, Mr. Hyman lived in the city of New Kensington where he owned movie theatres and founded West Penn Mirror and Glass.  After moving to Pittsburgh, he founded and became president of West Penn Realty Company.

Throughout his life, Hyman was passionate about higher education and remained committed to helping New Kensington residents achieve their educational goals. In 1976, he established an annual $5,000 scholarship at Penn State New Kensington that benefitted 10 students each year.

Upon his death in 1977, his daughter Yetta Hyman Elinoff became the trustee of the foundation and continued his ongoing support of the campus. In 1988, she and her husband, Saul Elinoff, endowed the scholarship in honor of her mother, Minnie Hyman, who shared her husband’s education vision for the community.

“Lack of money prevented my grandmother Minnie from finishing her own schooling,” Professor Rubin said. “But she always valued education and would be pleased that funds in her name are being used to help others achieve their goals.”

The Elinoffs continue as trustees of the foundation, which is managed by their daughters Sarah Elinoff Acker and Rubin.

The Hyman endowment provides approximately $4,500 each year for campus students. Eligible students are chosen on the basis of academic promise, leadership qualities, community service and financial need. Since its inception, the endowment has funded scholarships for more than 175 students.

In addition, the foundation has supported the Honors Program, Blissell Library and two campus funds -- Student Loan Fund and Insight Forum Faculty Speaker Series. The student fund is designed to provide assistance to undergraduates for emergencies and books required for their courses. The faculty speaker series fund helps the campus bring in guest speakers who discuss topics that are of interest to the campus and local community.

Penn State New Kensington is part of a University-wide effort to raise private donations to strengthen support for students, faculty and programs.  All gifts enhance Penn State’s historic mission of teaching, research and service to society.

Snider established the corporate/foundation partner award in 2009.  Alcoa was the first recipient. Leed’s was honored a year ago.

Yetta and Saul Elinoff (center) with their scholarship recipients, circa, 1980s.

CONCERT MOVED INDOORS
The Clarks, 5:00-7:00 p.m.
with Bishop Clay: 4:00 p.m.
Main Stage, Athletics Center

Alumni Central: 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Penn State -Indiana TV Football Game: noon
Refreshments

Bed Races: Noon-3:00 p.m.

FALL FESTIVAL
Penn State New Kensington's quest to develop a larger presence in the community continues this weekend with the campus' third annual Fall Festival, geared to local residents as well as campus students and alumni.

The festival gets under way off-campus at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 30, with the Chancellor's Gala at Hill Crest Country Club. Then, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 1, activities for all ages will take place across the campus' 72 acres.

All events on Oct. 1 will be free to the public. Events include food vendors, crafts, a car show, bed races, kids' activities, an alumni tent, and an indoor concert by the Clarks in the Athletics Center.

"We’ve also made great strides re-establishing ourselves as the community’s campus by engaging residents and opening events to the public," said Kevin Snider, chancellor of the campus. "Our intent is to forge even stronger bonds between the New Kensington campus and the community by developing partnerships to make the Alle-Kiski Valley an even greater place to live, work and learn."

In advance of the festival, campus students are celebrating "Spirit Week" from Sept. 26-30, a five-day schedule of student-centered activities.

For a detailed schedule of festival events, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/43255.htm online.

BED RACES
The afternoon schedule of Penn State New Kensington's Fall Festival gets rolling with bed races. Preliminary heats begin at noon in the lower parking lot. The race finals are slated for 3 p.m. For more information the bed races, call 724-334-6019 or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/43930.htm#NEWS43930 online.

ALUMNI SOCIAL, TV FOOTBALL
Campus faculty and staff can catch up with former students at the campus social, to be held from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., in the Alumni Central tent, located on the front lawn of the Engineering building. Visitors will be able to watch Penn State take on Indiana University at noon on a 65-inch TV in the tent.  For more on the alumni tent, call 724-334-6049 or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Alumni/alumorg.htm online.

FREE INDOOR CONCERT featuring THE CLARKS
The Clarks will headline Penn State New Kensington's free indoor concert from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct.1, on the main stage in the Athletics Center. The Clarks will take the stage at 5 p.m. Bishop Clay, an alternative rock band from Pittsburgh, will open the show at 4 p.m. For more information, call 724-334-6063 or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/43923.htm#NEWS43923 online.

LINDA MILLER LEADS DISCUSSION ON
HEMINGWAY'S "INDIAN CAMP"
2:00 p.m., Friday, Sept. 30, Art Gallery

MULTI-MEDIA EXHIBIT
Oct. 1-28

The works of local artist Marilyn Rea are on display from Oct. 1 to Oct. 28 at the Penn State New Kensington Art Gallery.

A native of western Pennsylvania, Rea's style is realism, and genres include nautical scenes, wildlife subjects, landscapes, nostalgic images and digital art. She works in various mediums such as acrylics, pen and ink, portraiture, airbrush, computer and graphic designs. Rea has completed murals for Sadecky Puppets, painted and carved murals for churches, and created wildlife murals, sculptures, and carvings for businesses.

When she is not indulging her creative passion, Rea owns and operates Ye Little Art Shoppe, a gallery and graphic art studio in Kittanning, Pa. In addition, she is active in the community serving as president and chair of the board of directors of the Armstrong County League of Arts.

The exhibit is free to the public. The Art Gallery is open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. weekdays and noon to 5:00 p.m. weekends.

For more information, contact Rea at 724-763-7457 or marilynrea@windstream.net or visit
http://yelittleartshoppe.com/ online.

For a profile of the artist by Rex Rutkoski of the Valley News Dispatch, visit http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/valleynewsdispatch/living/s_719771.html online.

THIRD ANNUAL CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
Saturday, Oct.1, Upper Parking Lot, Lower Parking Lot, Athletics Center

Special Fountain Dedication: 10:00 a.m.


Car Cruise: 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
   


Crafts and Food: 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.


Kids' Zone: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.


Bed Races: noon - 3:00 p.m.



"Alumni Central" Tent: 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
featuring Penn State TV Football: noon



Free Outdoor Concert: 4:00 -7:00 p.m
featuring The Clarks: 5:00 p.m.

FRIDAY
Chancellor's Gala: 6:00 p.m.
Hill Crest Country Club
  

Penn State New Kensington's quest to develop a larger presence in the community continues this weekend with the campus' third annual Fall Festival, geared to local residents as well as campus students and alumni.

The festival gets under way off-campus at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 30, with the Chancellor's Gala at Hill Crest Country Club. Then, from11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 1, activities for all ages will take place across the campus' 72 acres.

All events on Oct. 1 will be free to the public. Events include food vendors, crafts, a car show, bed races, kids' activities, an alumni tent, and an outdoor concert by the Clarks.

"We’ve also made great strides re-establishing ourselves as the community’s campus by engaging residents and opening events to the public," said Kevin Snider, chancellor of the campus. "Our intent is to forge even stronger bonds between the New Kensington campus and the community by developing partnerships to make the Alle-Kiski Valley an even greater place to live, work and learn."

In advance of the festival, campus students are celebrating "Spirit Week" from Sept. 26-30, a five-day schedule of student-centered activities.

For a detailed schedule of festival events, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentLife/43255.htm online.

FRIDAY EVENING:
CHANCELLOR'S GALA AND SILENT AUCTION
Dinner, dancing and a silent auction highlight the third annual Chancellor's Gala, set for 6 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 30, at Hill Crest Country Club. Alumni and friends of Penn State New Kensington will be entertained by the Penn State New Kensington Jazz Ensemble. The cost is $75.The theme of the gala is "Blue and White Lions Night," and the event will bring together founders, donors, alumni, students, faculty and staff, and features a silent auction, a mystery box sale and raffle items. While the contents of the mystery boxes cannot be revealed, the auction items include tickets to a Penguins ice hockey game at the Consol Energy Center, a Las Vegas junket, and a golf package. For those who cannot make the gala, a special auction feature, "Buy it Now," allows Penn Staters and friends from around the world to purchase items prior to the auction at a pre-determined price. All proceeds benefit the campus' Advisory Board Trustee Scholarship, which is a part of the University-wide fundraising effort, "For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students." The gala is sponsored by Burrell Group Inc., McCutcheon Enterprises Inc and Industrial Automation and Control.

For more information, contact Tina Sluss at 724-334-6056 or tms57@psu.edu, or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/43987.htm online.

SATURDAY MORNING:
FOUNTAIN DEDICATION; CAR CRUISE, CRAFTS, FOOD, KIDS' ZONE
Daytime activities at Penn State New Kensington's Fall Festival will kick into gear at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct.1, with a car cruise, craft booths and food vendors in the upper parking lot. Children can enjoy the festivities with numerous activities in the Kids' Zone, located in the Athletics Center. A special event, the official dedication of the new three-tier water fountain is set for 10 a.m. The decorative fountain, located at the front entrance to the campus, honors the legacy of  Dr. Larry Pollock who served the campus for 35 years as chancellor and director of student affairs. The car cruise is sponsored by Gatto, Glen Bush Ford, Highland Tire and Nick Chevroet.

For more information on the fountain dedication, call 724-334-6056 or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/43928.htm#NEWS43928 online.
For more information on the car cruise, call 724-334-6025 or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/43979.htm#NEWS43979 online.

SATURDAY AFTERNOON:
ALUMNI SOCIAL, FOOTBALL, BED RACE
The afternoon schedule of Penn State New Kensington's Fall Festival gets rolling with bed races. Preliminary heats begin at noon in the lower parking lot. The race finals are slated for 3 p.m. Campus faculty and staff can catch up with former students at the campus social, to be held from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., in the Alumni Central tent, located on the front lawn of the Engineering building. Visitors will be able to watch Penn State take on Indiana University at noon on a 65-inch TV in the tent. The bed races are sponsored by PNC Bank. The alumni tent is sponsored by the Alle-Kiski Alumni Society.

For more information on the bed races, call 724-334-6019 or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/43930.htm#NEWS43930 online.
For more on the alumni tent, call 724-334-6049 or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Alumni/alumorg.htm online.

SATURDAY EVENING:
FREE OUTDOOR CONCERT BY THE CLARKS
The Clarks will headline Penn State New Kensington's free outdoor concert from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct.1, on the main stage in the Athletics Center parking lot. The Clarks will take the stage at 5 p.m. Bishop Clay, an alternative rock band from Pittsburgh, will open the show at 4 p.m. For more information, call 724-334-6063 or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/43923.htm#NEWS43923 online.

"BUY IT NOW" AUCTION ITEMS
http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/43849.htm

Presenting Sponsor

The Fall Festival officially opens at 6 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 30, with the third annual Chancellor's Gala at Hill Crest Country Club.

The theme of the gala is "Blue and White Lions Night," and the event brings together founders, donors, alumni, students, faculty and staff, and features dinner and dancing, silent auction, mystery box sale and raffle items. The cost is $75.

While the contents of the mystery boxes cannot be revealed, the auction items include tickets to a Penguins ice hockey game at the Consol Energy Center, a Las Vegas junket, and a golf package.

"The gala is a celebration of Penn State New Kensington and the surrounding community," said Kevin Snider, chancellor at the campus and the inspiration for the event. "It is a look into the coming year of what the campus and communities are doing to enhance the Alle-Kiski region."

For those who cannot make the gala, a special auction feature, "Buy it Now," allows Penn Staters and friends from around the world to purchase items prior to the auction at a pre-determined price. All proceeds benefit the campus' Advisory Board Trustee Scholarship, which is a part of the University-wide fundraising effort, "For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students." The Advisory Board, headed by president Al Weber, is hosting the gala. The Burrell Group Inc. is the presenting sponsor. In addition, McCutcheon Enterprises Inc. and Industrial Automation and Controls Inc. are sponsoring the event. For more information, call 724-334-6056.

"The generosity of many local individuals, businesses and organizations makes this event possible," said Snider, in his fourth year as chancellor. "Their support provides opportunities for students to attend college and build a strong workforce for our region."

The third annual Fall Festival is set from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, at the campus. The event is geared to local residents as well as campus students and alumni. Activities for the young, old and those in between will be spread out on the campus' 72 acres. Highlight of the festival is a free outdoor concert by the Clarks at 4 p.m. All events, like the concert, will be free.

For a list of auction items, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/43849.htm

For general information about the festival, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/FallFestival online.

Thank You
To the following donors for
making our auction a success:

Official page: www.nk.psu.edu/akjobfair

Local residents are invited to attend the fourth annual Alle-Kiski Job Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 6, in the Athletics Center at Penn State New Kensington.

Sponsored by Penn State New Kensington and Pennsylvania CareerLink of Alle-Kiski, the job fair is free to the public, as well as to Penn State students and alumni. More than 50 recruiters are expected to be available to provide career options for those beginning a career or those seeking a change in vocation.

"This is a community-based job fair featuring local employers with hiring needs here in the Alle-Kiski Valley," said Jim Shields, career services coordinator for the campus. "It is a great chance for Penn State students to learn more about nearby companies and their internships, part-time and full-time job opportunities."

Job-seekers can interview with regional companies regarding employment opportunities in a variety of fields, including health care, finance, retail and manufacturing. Last year, nearly 600 prospective employees attended the event.

Penn State New Kensington staff members Pat Hollinger, outreach coordinator, Nancy Miller, area representative, and Shields organized the fair with a committee of representatives from the Alle-Kiski CareerLink, local chambers of commerce and area businesses. According to Shields, the event features full- and part-time employment, internships and co-op opportunities with employers in the local region.

"Job-seekers will be able to discuss current openings and network with employers hiring in numerous career fields," said Shields. "Companies can match the qualifications of the attendees with the skills that the company needs.”

For information, contact CareerLink at 724-334-8600 ext. 211, or talk to Shields, by phone at 724-334-6065 or by e-mail at xjs8@psu.edu.

For more about other job fairs, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentServices/CareerServices/29179.htm online.

For more about career services at the campus, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentServices/CareerServices/careers.htm online.

PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS AND FAMILIES
9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m., Monday, October 10

The Office of Enrollment Management at Penn State New Kensington is offering an "Application Day" workshop for prospective students and their families from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 10.

The admissions staff will help students and parents complete the application form and answer questions about the admissions process. Those who are applying to Penn State will receive a waiver for the $50 application fee.

In addition, prospective students who indicate New Kensington as their first preference may receive an admissions decision immediately if they bring a high school transcript and their SAT or ACT scores. Appointments are not required, but are recommended.

For more information, call Penn State New Kensington at 724-334-LION or 888-968-PAWS.

For more admissions events, visit
http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions/admevents.htm?cn11 online.

CLASSIC SPONSORS

Gatto Cycle Shop Inc.

Glenn Bush Ford, Inc.

 Highland Tire

 Nick Chevrolet

Car aficionados can slake their thirst for modified camshafts and Ford flatheads at the second Penn State New Kensington Car Cruise that is set to run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 1, in the upper parking lot of the campus.

Owners of the American classics are invited to show off their prized possessions and give casual observers, as well as fellow enthusiasts, first-hand, under-the-hood tours. Commemorative dash plaques and goodie bags will be given to the first 35 participants.  In addition, there be people’s choice voting and prizes.

Last year, thirty cars, trucks and hot rods fanciers parked on campus, swapped stories and mused about "racing for pinks." (Pink slip racing is a street race where the victor takes ownership of the loser's car. The pink slip is the car's title.) Many of the vehicles came from the garages of alumni, faculty and staff. Retired registrar Joanne Fitzsimmons and husband, Paul, cruised in with their 1958 Cadillac. Art professor Bud Gibbons showed off his 1946 Chevy pick-up truck. For more information, contact Bonnie Godfrey at bjg24@psu.edu or 724-334-6025.

The car cruise is one of the many attractions of the third annual Fall Festival that is geared to local residents, as well as students and alumni. Activities for the young, old and those in between will be spread out on the campus' 72 acres. All events are free to the public. Activities include food vendors, crafts, and kids zone.

The festival culminates in the early evening with a free outdoor concert. For the second consecutive year, the Clarks will take the stage, and unlike a year ago, admission is free for the show that is slated to begin at 5 p.m. As a show of appreciation to neighbors and local communities, the campus festival committee decided to waive the admission fee this year. The free concert complements the other activities at the festival which is free to the public. Bishop Clay, an alternative rock band from Pittsburgh, will open for the Clarks at 4 p.m. For more information, call 724-334-6063.

Highlight of the preconcert activities is the Bed Race, featuring five-person teams (four pushers, one rider) who will navigate a bed over a measured course. Alumni, community and student groups are encouraged to enter teams. Beds will be provided. For more information, contact Danielle DeStefano at 724-334-6019 or dnd125@psu.edu.

Alumni also will have their time in the sun, or rather in the tent. Dubbed "Alumni Central," the tent will serve as the main venue for the Penn State-Indiana football game on TV and as a social meeting place for alumni and the campus community. Friends of Penn State are welcome to join in the alumni activities. For more about alumni activities, contact Bill Woodard at 724-334-6046 or uxw1@psu.edu.

For general information about the festival, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/FallFestival online.

THIRD ANNUAL CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY EVENT
11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 1

The Clarks, 4:00-7:00 p.m.,
Main Stage, Athletics Center Parking Lot

"Alumni Central" Tent, 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
TV Football Game: Penn State-Indiana, Noon
Lawn, Engineering Building

The third annual Fall Festival at Penn State New Kensington, set for Saturday, Oct.1, features a variety of activities throughout the day for people of all ages.

The festival is a community-wide event that is geared to local residents as well as campus students and alumni. Activities for the young, old and those in between will be spread out on the campus' 72 acres and run from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The highlight of the festival is a free outdoor concert from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. by The Clarks. The legendary Pittsburgh band will take the stage at 5 p.m. Special guest band Bishop Clay, an alternative rock band from Pittsburgh, will open the show at 4 p.m.

A special dedication of the new campus fountain that honors the legacy of  Dr. Larry Pollock, who served the campus for 35 years as chancellor and director of student affairs, is set for 10 a.m. The three-tier fountain is located at the front entrance to the campus. For more information, contact Donna Speer at 724-334-6057 or dms46@psu.edu via email.

Festival activities include a car cruise, food vendors, craft show, bed races, alumni tent and a Kids Zone. All events are free.

The car cruise kicks off the eight-hour festival at 11 a.m. and runs until 2 p.m. in the upper parking lot of the campus. Owners of the American classics will show off their prized possessions and give casual observers, as well as fellow enthusiasts, first-hand, under-the-hood tours. Commemorative dash plaques and goodie bags will be given to the first 35 participants.  In addition, there be people’s choice voting and prizes. For more information, contact Bonnie Godfrey at 724-334-6025 or bjg24@psu.edu via email.

Twelve craft booths and five food vendors will outline the perimeter of the Athletics Center parking lot beginning at 11 a.m. Crafters include purveyors of jewelry, popcorn shirts, kitchen tools, Steelers gear, bikes, wooden furniture, glass pendants, information on a credit union account, Penn State slider football games, and Penn State merchandise. The food booths feature peanuts and cotton candy, haluski, hot sausage and funnel cakes, ice cream, and beef brisket and pulled pork sandwiches. For more information, contact Sharon Levett at 724-334-6012 or sql1@psu.edu via email.

Children can keep busy at the Kids' Zone that runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Athletics Center. Activities include an inflatable jungle bounce house, balloon artist, circus train, face painting and crafts. The featured attraction is a special exhibit by Tom Kessenich called "Snakes Alive," an interactive live reptile and amphibian show. For more information, contact Lauren Blum, 724-334-6063 or ldb14@psu.edu via email.

The third annual Bed Race is set for noon on Saturday, Oct. 1, in the lower parking lot adjacent to the Athletics Center. Believed to be the first of its kind at a Penn State campus, the competition features five-person teams (four pushers, one rider) who navigate a rolling bed over a measured course while performing tasks at various stations along the way. A series of timed heats culminates with the championship run at 3 p.m. In addition, judges will award prizes in various categories including wackiest design and best theme. For more information, contact Danielle DeStefano at 724-334-6019 or dnd125@psu.edu via email.

The "Alumni Central" tent opens at 11:30 a.m. with a campus social on the lawn in front of the Engineering Building. The highlight will be the Penn State vs. Indiana football game at noon on a big screen TV. Refreshments will be available. For more information, contact Bill Woodard at 724-334-6046 or uxw1@psu.edu via email.

For more about the fall festival and a detailed schedule of events, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/fallfestival online.

PENN STATE NEW KENSINGTON FALL FESTIVAL
Tent Opens at 11:30 a.m.
Penn State vs. Indiana, Noon, Saturday, Oct. 1

Kick-off for the Penn State-Indiana TV football game is set for noon on Saturday, October 1. The game will be broadcast on a big screen TV in the Alle-Kiski Society's "Alumni Central" tent at the Fall Festival at Penn State New Kensington.

"Alumni Central" opens at 11:30 a.m. with a campus social on the lawn in front of the Engineering building. Campus faculty and staff can catch up with former students at the social which runs until 4:00 p.m. Refreshments are available.

For more information, contact Bill Woodard at 724-334-6046 or uxw1@psu.edu via email.

For more about the festival and the tent, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/fallfestival online.

ROBIN WISZOWATY
Noon, Wednesday, Oct. 19, Forum Theatre
"MY MAASAI LIFE: FROM SUBURBIA TO SAVANNAH"

Robin Wiszowaty, author of "My Maasai Life: From Suburbia to Savannah," the selected book for freshmen at the campus, brings her inspirational creativity to Penn State New Kensington at noon Wednesday, Oct. 19, in the campus Forum Theatre.

The Freshman Summer Reading Program was instituted at the campus in 2005 to encourage reading and critical thinking and to provide a shared experience among new students. First-year students at the campus had a homework assignment over the summer -- read a book, chosen by a committee of campus faculty and prepare to discuss it during orientation. Small group discussions are slated with fellow students, faculty and staff throughout the fall semester.

Wiszowaty lives in her adoptive country of Kenya where she serves as program director with Free the Children, a non-profit organization that helps children to make a difference in their worlds.  As director, she implements long-term development projects in partnership with local communities.

A product of a middle-class family in Schaumburg, Illinois, Wiszowaty made the life-changing decision to go to Kenya while in college. The journey took her to Nairobi, the capital and largest city in Kenya, to East Africa, home of the Maasai, a semi-nomadic tribe in the remote area of the southern region of the Great Rift Valley. She moved in with a Maasai family and adopted their customs and language. Her book is a memoir of her experiences, and it explores the personal side of many African struggles. Drawing upon her fieldwork experience, Wiszowaty is able to share stories about the lives of rural Maasai community members.

Wiszowaty is the third author of a selected book to speak at the campus. Tamara Draut, author of "Strapped: Why America's 20- and 30-Somethings Can't Get Ahead," talked with students in 2006, and Bill Strickland, author of "Make the Impossible Possible: One Man's Crusade to Inspire Others to Dream Bigger and Achieve the Extraordinary," spoke on campus last year. The author's talk is free to the public.

For more about the author, the book and the guild, visit http://www.arnettandassociates.com/SpeakerDetails/28651/Robin-Wiszowaty.html online.

For more about the Freshman Summer reading program, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Documents/StudentServices/Book_Insert_2011.pdf online.

LAUREN BLUM PROVIDES
ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT TO STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

Lauren Blum was named recently as student life coordinator at Penn State New Kensington.

Working out of the Student Life office, Blum is responsible for student leadership development, student activities, marketing student co-curricular programs, and web support for student affairs. Her duties include providing administrative support to student clubs and organizations, coordinating cultural programs and events, and advising the Student Government Association.

Blum, a native of Beaver Falls, Pa., is no stranger to the campus. She has spent the past year working as a graduate assistant in the Office of Student Affairs.

A graduate of Lock Haven University with a bachelor's degree in Business Administration/Recreation Management, Blum is working on a master's in Student Affairs in Higher Education at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She expects to complete the course work in summer 2012.

"We are hoping to initiate a student leadership program, to encourage students to step up and take leadership roles on campus and in the community," Blum said. "We are also looking into ways to increase our sustainability efforts in student life as well as around campus and in the community."

To contact Blum, call 724-334-6063 or ldb14@psu.edu via email.
Sustainability will be at the forefront from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 28 at the New Kensington campus. A series of town hall meetings are scheduled on all of Penn State campuses during September and October.

The University Sustainability Council is drafting Penn State’s first Strategic Plan for Sustainability and is seeking public input during the drafting process. Erik Foley, director of the Penn State Campus Sustainability Office, and Susannah Barsom, associate director of the Penn State Center for Sustainability, will visit each campus to share the plan in its current form and to listen to input from the campus and the public.

For a list of sustainability initiatives Penn State is already doing, visit http://green.psu.edu/psuDoing/default.asp, and to learn more about Penn State sustainability teaching and research, visit http://green.psu.edu/research/default.asp online.

THREE CONVENIENT LOCATIONS FOR MULTI-MEDIA EDITING

Work on multi-media projects becomes more convenient for the Penn State New Kensington community with the opening of a new Media Commons editing station in the Elizabeth S. Blissell Library. 

The new iMac computer station sits adjacent to the library information desk and offers a convenient third location for individual and group work. This location offers opportunities to edit audio or video projects in a quiet environment. In addition, library staff will be on-hand to offer advice on issues such as copyrights.

The other two locations for the editing stations are in the Computer Center and in the main Media Commons room, located in Room 12B on the lower-level of the Conference Center.

Media Commons is a University-wide initiative to provide a variety of services to help students, faculty and staff produce and publish multimedia projects. The studio supports teaching, learning and research. The studio is equipped with a HD camera, studio lighting, green screen, and microphones, and can be utilized for video or audio productions. Consultants, training opportunities and audio/video production facilities are available to beginners as well as advanced users.

For information, contact Deborah Sillman at dys100@psu.edu via e-mail.

For more about Media Commons, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentServices/IT/mediacommons.htm online.

DEFENSE KEY TO SEASON

A strong and athletic defense will be the hallmark of the 2011 Penn State New Kensington women's volleyball team.

With a blend of savvy veterans and confident freshmen, head coach Dave McGeary will count on his team's ability to read opponents' attack positions and to be in the best position to counter with digs and blocks.

"Our lack of height directs us to play defensive, opportunistic volleyball," said McGeary, who begins his second year as coach."We will force the opposing team to earn their points while trying to take advantage of their missed opportunities."

Last year, a young New Kensington squad finished 2-14 in the Penn State University Athletic Conference. The Lady Lions were competitive in all matches but showed  inexperience at critical moments during the game.

This year, inexperience has given way to maturity, and with maturity comes the ability to maintain composure throughout the match. With the addition of talented and athletic freshmen, McGeary's team can be in position to win games.

"We have a strong core of athletic players returning, and we have a nice mix of talented recruits," said McGeary, a graduate of Dickinson College with a degree in economics. "Our on-court maturity should complement our skill set nicely."

Heading the list of returnees are sophomores, middle hitter Doreen Akins (Lenape), outside hitter Rachel Sportelli (Highlands) and her twin, outside hitter Valerie Sportelli (Highlands). According to McGeary, the trio has worked hard in the pre-season on hitting and serving.

"Doreen gives us strength and consistency in the middle, especially on blocks," said McGeary, a resident of New Kensington and Valley High School graduate.  "Rachel and Valerie mirror each other as strong side hitters and middle back defensive players."

Newcomers expected to crack the starting line-up from the outset are freshmen Melissa Daugherty (Plum) and Tammy Ferriera (Penn Trafford). Daugherty adds another strong outside hitter to the team, and Ferriera takes on setter duties.

"We are expecting significant contributions from Melissa, whose overall skills and experience should provide a solid presence on the court," said McGeary, who also serves as advisor to the student club, Group Investigating God. "Tammy brings good setting skills to the team."

Battling for additional court time will be sophomore defensive specialist Taylor Pastovic (Highlands), freshman outside hitter/defensive specialist Jessica George (Burrell), freshman outside hitter Kara Shaley (West Shamokin) and freshman outside hitter/defensive specialist Katie Colbert (Fox Chapel).

"We are athletic and will play gritty defense," McGeary said. "We should be a strong and consistent serving team, which will keep us in every game."

FALL OPEN HOUSE
6:30-8:30 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 27

BE A STUDENT FOR A DAY
8:45 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 28

Call 724-334-LION or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions/admevents.htm

Prospective students and their families will have the opportunity to discover the benefits of attending Penn State New Kensington at two admissions events during the last week of September.

The fall open house at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 27 gives visitors a chance to explore the University, meet with campus staff, faculty and alumni, and tour the campus with current students as hosts. Patty Brady, director of enrollment management, and the Admissions staff will talk with high school students and parents about the admission process and student-aid opportunities. The open house is one of several programs planned this fall to acquaint prospective students with the campus and Penn State's wide variety of academic programs.

High school students can get a taste of campus life from 8:45 am to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 28, at "Be a Penn State Student for a Day." Participants can interact with current students, attend classes and enjoy a complementary lunch in Cafe 780. Information about admissions and financial aid will also be available.

To register for the events, call 724-334-LION or 888-968-PAWS. For more on admissions, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Admissions/admevents.htm online.

UPCOMING EVENTS

PENN STATE DAY
9:30 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Oct. 22 

BE A STUDENT FOR A DAY
8:45 a.m.-2:00 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 26, Nov. 30

VETERANS' OPEN HOUSE
6:00-8:00 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 9

ADULT/TRANSFER STUDENT OPEN HOUSE
6:30-8:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 17

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Receive stories like this in your email. The Penn State New Kensington Newswire is a free weekly electronic update of news and announcements from the campus. You can get timely information about new academic programs, admissions, career services, student activities, athletics, development and alumni, continuing education, and much more in your e-mail every Thursday. You can also subscribe to the free daily newswire service from University Park and other campuses. To keep in touch with the latest buzz, go to: http://newswires.psu.edu/

FOR THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN
Gifts from corporate supporters count toward the goals of For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students. This University-wide fundraising effort is directed toward a shared vision of Penn State as the most comprehensive, student-centered research university in America. The University is engaging Penn State’s alumni and friends as partners in achieving six key objectives: ensuring student access and opportunity, enhancing honors education, enriching the student experience, building faculty strength and capacity, fostering discovery and creativity, and sustaining the University’s tradition of quality. The campaign’s top priority is keeping a Penn State degree affordable for students and families. The For the Future campaign is the most ambitious effort of its kind in Penn State’s history, with the goal of securing $2 billion in private support by 2014. Penn State New Kensington's goal is $3 million.

FIVE CAMPUS STUDENTS ARE RECIPIENTS

Next AKS Meeting
6:30 p.m., Monday, Sept. 19,
Dingbats/Royal Gatherings, Pittsburgh Mills

The Alle-Kiski Society of the Penn State Alumni Association awarded $3,000 in scholarships recently to five Penn State New Kensington students.

The recipients are Gretchen Toy of Kittanning, Pa; Shanna Williams and Corey Zell of Apollo, Pa; and Vanessa Peck and Justin Tinnemeyer of Lower Burrell, Pa. The society's scholarship, currently endowed at $51,000, is funded through the proceeds of the annual alumni golf tournament. In August, the tournament raised a record $6,800 as 83 alumni and friends participated in the 12th annual scramble at the Links at Spring Church.

Toy, a senior corporate communications major in the Honors program, was awarded $1,000. She carries a 3.98 grade-point average and was named outstanding junior in the communications program at the 2011 Academic and Student Achievement Awards ceremony. In addition to her academic prowess, Toy is active in numerous extra-curricular activities, serving as secretary of the Student Government Association, orientation leader, and writer for the Nittany Pride, the campus newspaper. She earned a Chancellor's Fellow award in 2009. The fellows program allows first-year students to collaborate with faculty on specific projects. The initiative provides students with tremendous opportunities to gain "on-the-job" experiences that are rarely found at the freshman level. Toy will graduate in December, a semester ahead of schedule.

Williams is a junior psychology major and received a $500 scholarship from the Alle-Kiski Society. She carries a 3.95 GPA and works in the Academic and Career Success Center where she tutors fellow students in a variety of subjects. Community service is a major part of Williams' off-campus activities. She has volunteered at Habitat for Humanity and the Rachel Carson Homestead, as well Riding for the Handicapped of Western Pennsylvania, an organization that teaches disabled children to enjoy and ride horses.

Zell is the recipient of a $500 scholarship. A junior electro-mechanical engineering technology major, he carries a 3.57 GPA. A cycling enthusiast, he is an active member of the USA Cycling and the National Bicycle League. In addition, Zell is a certified lifeguard.

Peck, a junior business marketing and management major, earned a $500 scholarship. She carries a 3.5 grade-point average while working full-time to pay for tuition. On-campus, Peck has served as an orientation leader and participated in THON.

Tinnemeyer received $500 in scholarship money. A sophomore mechanical engineering major, he carries a 3.25 GPA and is active in the community and in his church. He has participated in Relay for Life, Allegheny Valley Association of Churches, VAC Walk for Hunger and Voice of Martyrs. Tinnemeyer is a communion steward and instrumental soloist in his church.

Since 1998, the society has awarded $33,000 to 43 campus students. The amount awarded is expected to rise dramatically in the next few years as the alumni group increases its endowment level by 50 percent over the next three years. Last year, the board of directors approved a motion to donate $25,000 to Penn State's new fundraising campaign.

The society pledged to increase the principal of its Alle-Kiski Society Endowed Scholarship from its current total of $51,000 to $76,000 by June 2014. The philanthropic action was a response to a request by Roger Williams, executive director of the Penn State Alumni Association, for local alumni chapters and campus societies to accelerate the growth of their individual endowments during the University's fundraising effort, "For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students." The society has fulfilled more than 60 percent of the pledge.

Endowed gifts are held by the University in perpetuity. The initial gift is invested and only a portion of the average annual investment return is spent. The remaining income is added to the principal as protection against inflation. The society's scholarship was established in 1992 with an initial principal of $15,000. Six years later, it was fully endowed at $25,000. In addition to scholarships, the society sponsors a variety of campus activities throughout the year, including an alumni tent at the Fall Festival on Oct.1.

Penn State alumni and friends are encouraged to re-connect with the University and campus by attending the Alle-Kiski Society meetings that are held at 6:30 p.m. on the third Monday of each month at Dingbats Restaurant/Royal Gatherings in the Pittsburgh Mills. The next meeting is Sept. 19.

For more about the Alle-Kiski Society, contact Bill Woodard, uxw1@psu.edu via e-mail or visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Alumni/alumorg.htm?cn613 online.

AKS SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
1998-2012

1998-99
Pat Neal

1999-2000
Jillian Savko
Edward Lee
George Madalay

2000-01
Holly Bell
Karen Bridge
Kimberly Lowers
Theresa Smith
Toni Vokes

2001-2002
Wendy Jarmul
Nicole Palucacos
Joseph Caliguri
James Dykes

2002-03
Ray Mastre
Matthew Marziale
Charlotte Caldwell
Dana Tolatta

2003-04
Pat Olstein
Kenneth Kocon
Charlene Barker
Shawn Vause

2004-05
Jeffrey Arvay
Krista Goch
Jamie Conrad
Kelly Mitchell

2005-06
Shirley Betush
Melissa Franklin
Danica Myers

2006-07
Jeffery Mangone
Marie Rosenberger
Julie Arvay

2007-08
Kristin Clyde
Danica Myers

2008-09
Julie Arvay

2009-10
Katie Shoemaker

2010-11
Melissa Gemballa
Ericka Watson
Jaclyn Burkett

2011-12
Gretchen Toy
Shanna Williams
Vanessa Peck
Justin Tinnemeyer
Corey Zell

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Receive stories like this in your email. The Penn State New Kensington Newswire is a free weekly electronic update of news and announcements from the campus. You can get timely information about new academic programs, admissions, career services, student activities, athletics, development and alumni, continuing education, and much more in your e-mail every Thursday. You can also subscribe to the free daily newswire service from University Park and other campuses. To keep in touch with the latest buzz, go to: http://newswires.psu.edu/

FOR THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN
Gifts from corporate supporters count toward the goals of For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students. This University-wide fundraising effort is directed toward a shared vision of Penn State as the most comprehensive, student-centered research university in America. The University is engaging Penn State’s alumni and friends as partners in achieving six key objectives: ensuring student access and opportunity, enhancing honors education, enriching the student experience, building faculty strength and capacity, fostering discovery and creativity, and sustaining the University’s tradition of quality. The campaign’s top priority is keeping a Penn State degree affordable for students and families. The For the Future campaign is the most ambitious effort of its kind in Penn State’s history, with the goal of securing $2 billion in private support by 2014. Penn State New Kensington's goal is $3 million.

CEREMONY A PART OF THE FALL FESTIVAL
10:00 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 1

The newest addition to the campus external "beautification" program is a decorative fountain, located at the front entrance to the campus. The three-tier water-mover honors the legacy of Larry Pollock who served the campus for 35 years as chancellor and director of student affairs. The official dedication is set for 10 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 1, as a part of the Fall Festival. For more information, call 724-334-6056.

Dr. Larry Pollock
The newest addition to the campus external "beautification" program is a fountain, located at the front entrance to the campus. The three-tier fountain honors the legacy of Dr. Larry Pollock who served the campus for 35 years as chancellor and director of student affairs. Academic expansion was the hallmark of Dr. Pollock's administration.

Under his direction, the campus internationalized its programs and curricula, collaborated with local communities on student projects and expanded diversity initiatives to area high schools. Through four decades, Dr. Pollock's leadership helped the campus offer the finest college education in the region. Faculty advancement, new technology, and campus initiatives gave Penn State New Kensington the competitive edge in recruitment, academics and research. He was honored for his efforts with Penn State's award for Outstanding Service to Students and the Beatty Award for Outstanding Chief Student Affairs Officer.

In addition to the academic accomplishments, Dr. Pollock oversaw a number of program and service initiatives in the Division of Student Affairs. He ensured student representation on every campus committee, including the campus advisory board. Student organizations, such as student clubs, doubled during his stewardship and many facilities supporting student life activities were created including a club suite, TV lounge and game room.

Dr. Pollock's extensive community involvement in Westmoreland County and the Alle-Kiski region has included leadership roles with such organizations as the United Way, Alcoa Community Advisory Board, Burrell Area Rotary, StrongLand Chamber of Commerce and the Northern Westmoreland Foundation.

The fountain was made possible by the financial support of Joseph Defilippi, Raymond Mastre, faculty, staff, alumni and friends of Penn State New Kensington.

Fall Festival
A free outdoor concert by the Clarks is the culminating event of the campus' third annual Fall Festival that is geared to local residents as well as campus students and alumni. Activities for the young, old and those in between will be spread out on the campus' 72 acres and run from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.  All festival events are free to the public.

Highlight of the preconcert activities is the Bed Race, featuring five-person teams (four pushers, one rider) who will navigate a bed over a measured course. Alumni, community and student groups are encouraged to enter teams. Beds will be provided. For more information, contact Danielle DeStefano at 724-334-6019 or dnd125@psu.edu.

Alumni also will have their time in the sun, or rather in the tent. Dubbed Alumni Central, the tent will serve as the main venue for the Penn State-Indiana football game on TV and as a social meeting place for alumni and the campus community. Friends of Penn State are welcome to join in the alumni activities. For more about alumni activities, contact Bill Woodard at 724-334-6046 or uxw1@psu.edu.

For general information about the festival, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/FallFestival online.

A kid, an ice pop, and a fountain make for a perfect summer day on campus.

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THIRTY-SEVEN INSTRUCTORS IN
A VARIETY OF DISCIPLINES RECOGNIZED

Thirty-seven long time adjunct faculty at Penn State New Kensington were honored Aug. 18 for service to the campus.

A staple of most colleges and universities, adjunct faculty supplement the teaching loads of full-time faculty. The part-time instructors specialize in a variety of disciplines. The honored faculty members  received a certificate noting their contributions to the campus.

“We are very fortunate to have a group of adjunct faculty who are loyal to our campus and who continue to serve the educational needs of the campus,” said Arlene Hall, director of academic affairs. "Each semester, selected courses are delivered by adjunct faculty who often are able to add important perspectives related to the practical application of disciplinary knowledge."

Adjuncts at the New Kensington campus were recognized for service of five years or more. Rob Farinelli, who teaches statistics and David Wohleber, an instructor in chemistry and computer science, top the list with 21 years of service. Carol Dilliott (Nutrition) followed with 20 years of service.

For a list of honored faculty, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Documents/Academics/Adjunct_Recognition_Page.pdf

For photos from this event, visit http://psnk.smugmug.com/Events/Adjunct-Faculty-Recognition/

SIGN-UP FOR FREE NEWSWIRE SERVICE
Receive stories like this in your email. The Penn State New Kensington Newswire is a free weekly electronic update of news and announcements from the campus. You can get timely information about new academic programs, admissions, career services, student activities, athletics, development and alumni, continuing education, and much more in your e-mail every Thursday. You can also subscribe to the free daily newswire service from University Park and other campuses. To keep in touch with the latest buzz, go to: http://newswires.psu.edu/

FOR THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN
Gifts from corporate supporters count toward the goals of For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students. This University-wide fundraising effort is directed toward a shared vision of Penn State as the most comprehensive, student-centered research university in America. The University is engaging Penn State’s alumni and friends as partners in achieving six key objectives: ensuring student access and opportunity, enhancing honors education, enriching the student experience, building faculty strength and capacity, fostering discovery and creativity, and sustaining the University’s tradition of quality. The campaign’s top priority is keeping a Penn State degree affordable for students and families. The For the Future campaign is the most ambitious effort of its kind in Penn State’s history, with the goal of securing $2 billion in private support by 2014. Penn State New Kensington's goal is $3 million.

LEGENDARY PITTSBURGH BAND TOPS
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS GEARED TO THE COMMUNITY
4:00 p.m., Saturday, October 1, Athletics Center Parking Lot

Headed by lead singer Scott Blasey, The Clarks are coming back to Penn State New Kensington's Fall Festival on Saturday, Oct. 1, for a free outdoor concert on the main stage in the Athletics Center parking lot.

The Clarks will take the stage at 5 p.m. Special guest band Bishop Clay, an alternative rock band from Pittsburgh,  will open the show at 4 p.m. The concert is the final act of the day long community festival that features a variety of activities that are geared to local residents, as well as students and alumni.

Activities for the young, old and those in between will be spread out on the campus' 72 acres. All events are free to the public. Activities include food vendors, crafts, car cruise, bed races, kids zone, and an alumni tent. For general information about the festival, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/FallFestival online.

ABOUT THE CLARKS
Formed in 1988, the Clarks' image and music evolved over the next two decades. It forged its reputation as a college stalwart in Indiana, Pa., covering established artists and playing fraternity houses and local bars. The band progressed into a regional sensation in Pittsburgh, writing original material, performing on larger campuses and clubs, and earning radio play. The group became a national presence in New York with its "Fast Moving Cars" CD and an appearance on "Late Show with David Letterman." Band members include Scott Blasey, lead vocals, electric and acoustic guitars; Robert James, electric and acoustic guitars, vocals; Greg Joseph, bass guitar, vocals; and Dave Minarik, drums, vocals.

The band has released 14 CDs and sold more than a quarter of a million copies. Its most successful album, "Let It Go," spawned three radio hits, "Born Too Late,"" Better Off Without You," and "Snowman." The group's most recent CD, "Restless Days," features 11 original songs plus a contemporary version of the classic Louis Armstrong piece, "What a Wonderful World," which was commissioned by the Pittsburgh Penguins and used as part of their 2008-2009 marketing campaign.

For more information on the concert, contact Katie Shoemaker, interim activities coordinator, at 724-334-6063 or kls511@psu.edu

For more on the Clarks, visit http://www.clarksonline.com/

Fall Festival
The Clarks concert is the culminating event of the campus' third annual Fall Festival that is geared to local residents and as well as campus students and alumni. Activities for the young, old and those in between will be spread out on the campus' 72 acres and run from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. All events, like the concert, will be free.

Highlight of the preconcert activities is the Bed Race, featuring five-person teams (four pushers, one rider) who will navigate a bed over a measured course. Alumni, community and student groups are encouraged to enter teams. Beds will be provided. For more information, contact Danielle DeStefano at 724-334-6019 or dnd125@psu.edu.

Alumni also will have their time in the sun, or rather in the tent. Dubbed "Alumni Central," the tent will serve as the main venue for the Penn State-Indiana football game on TV and as a social meeting place for alumni and the campus community. Friends of Penn State are welcome to join in the alumni activities. For more about alumni activities, contact Bill Woodard at 724-334-6046 or uxw1@psu.edu.

For general information about the festival, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/FallFestival online.

SIGN-UP FOR FREE NEWSWIRE SERVICE
Receive stories like this in your email. The Penn State New Kensington Newswire is a free weekly electronic update of news and announcements from the campus. You can get timely information about new academic programs, admissions, career services, student activities, athletics, development and alumni, continuing education, and much more in your e-mail every Thursday. You can also subscribe to the free daily newswire service from University Park and other campuses. To keep in touch with the latest buzz, go to: http://newswires.psu.edu/

FOR THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN
Gifts from corporate supporters count toward the goals of For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students. This University-wide fundraising effort is directed toward a shared vision of Penn State as the most comprehensive, student-centered research university in America. The University is engaging Penn State’s alumni and friends as partners in achieving six key objectives: ensuring student access and opportunity, enhancing honors education, enriching the student experience, building faculty strength and capacity, fostering discovery and creativity, and sustaining the University’s tradition of quality. The campaign’s top priority is keeping a Penn State degree affordable for students and families. The For the Future campaign is the most ambitious effort of its kind in Penn State’s history, with the goal of securing $2 billion in private support by 2014. Penn State New Kensington's goal is $3 million.

THIRTY-FIVE GUESTS GATHER AT
ARSENAL CIDER HOUSE AND WINE CELLAR

More than 35 Penn State alumni and friends gathered Aug. 30, for the Alle-Kiski Society's first "Friend-Raiser," a social event that introduced "new" Penn State alumni to "old" society members..

Co-hosted by the "For the Future" campaign committee at Penn State New Kensington, the event was held at Arsenal Cider House and Wine Cellar. The Civil War-themed winery, located across from historic Arsenal Park in Lawrenceville, Pa., specializes in small batch, hand crafted beverages. The venue afforded guests the opportunity to engage campus and society staff, and to enjoy the casual atmosphere that included cider, wine sorbet and a tour of the facilities. 

"It was a perfect opportunity to meet and greet new and old friends," said Patrick Kopnicky, who along with his wife, Mardelle, co-chairs the committee.

Guests savored samples of cider and wine, and for a grand finale, cleansed their palates with a wine sorbet.  Everything was made on the premises. In addition to emails and phone numbers of future Penn State connections, participants left with a personalized one-liter growler of wine or cider.

"I want to thank everyone who made our first friend-raising event such a success," said Donna Speer, director of development at the campus. "It was a great opportunity for alumni to network and socialize with fellow Penn Staters."

"We hope this will be the beginning of future monthly social gatherings, dubbed 'First Thursdays,'" Kopnicky said.

Based at the campus, the Alle-Kiski Society is the local chapter of the Penn State Alumni Association. The board of directors, comprising alumni, parents and friends of Penn State, represents more than 7,000 alumni living in the Alle-Kiski Valley. New and recent graduates of Penn State New Kensington can connect with fellow Penn Staters at the monthly meetings of the Alle-Kiski Society, held 6:30 p.m. on the third Monday of the month at Dingbats Restaurant/Royal Gatherings in the Pittsburgh Mills mall.

Another way to keep connected to Penn State is through the society's Facebook page, Alle-Kiski Society, Penn State Alumni Association. Alumni who earned their Penn State degrees at the campus or those who attended New Kensington and earned their degrees at another Penn State campus are welcome to join. In addition, former campus students who attended New Kensington and then left to pursue their career paths are encouraged to reconnect with the campus. These individuals include many former athletes who continued their academic and athletic careers at other institutions. Facebook is a way to catch up with the "lost" alumni of the campus.

Photos of the event are available on Facebook,
http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.242238492485342.61505.172113656164493

For other events sponsored by the Alle-Kiski Society, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Alumni/alumorg.htm

For more on the "For the Future" campaign, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Giving/givetoday.htm

SIGN-UP FOR FREE NEWSWIRE SERVICE
Receive stories like this in your email. The Penn State New Kensington Newswire is a free weekly electronic update of news and announcements from the campus. You can get timely information about new academic programs, admissions, career services, student activities, athletics, development and alumni, continuing education, and much more in your e-mail every Thursday. You can also subscribe to the free daily newswire service from University Park and other campuses. To keep in touch with the latest buzz, go to: http://newswires.psu.edu/

FOR THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN
Gifts from corporate supporters count toward the goals of For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students. This University-wide fundraising effort is directed toward a shared vision of Penn State as the most comprehensive, student-centered research university in America. The University is engaging Penn State’s alumni and friends as partners in achieving six key objectives: ensuring student access and opportunity, enhancing honors education, enriching the student experience, building faculty strength and capacity, fostering discovery and creativity, and sustaining the University’s tradition of quality. The campaign’s top priority is keeping a Penn State degree affordable for students and families. The For the Future campaign is the most ambitious effort of its kind in Penn State’s history, with the goal of securing $2 billion in private support by 2014. Penn State New Kensington's goal is $3 million.

FALL CAREER DAYS
11:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m., Tuesday-Thursday, Sept. 20-22

Penn State's largest career fair, the annual Fall Career Days, opens from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 20 to 22, at the Bryce Jordan Center on the University Park campus. More than 400 national and regional employers will be recruiting for internships, full-time and part-time positions in all technical and non-technical majors.

Fall Career Days is the best opportunity for all Penn Staters, students and alumni, to meet with major state and national recruiters. Not only is this an excellent opportunity to gain employment, but it is a great learning experience and offers "real life" practice for professional presentation, interviewing and networking skills.

Jim Shields, career services coordinator at Penn State New Kensington, encourages campus students searching for internships and post-graduation employment to attend. The Fall Career Days website is a source of information about the employers who will be in attendance, and it offers the option for students to submit their resumes online before the fair with the possibility of setting up interviews on the day of the event.

The Penn State New Kensington office of Career Services provides comprehensive career planning, education and job search support services for students and alumni of Penn State. For information about Career Services at the campus or to schedule an appointment, call Shields at 724-334-6065 or xjs8@psu.edu.

To access the Career Days Web site, visit http://www.fairs.sa.psu.edu/fall/

For more on career services at Penn State New Kensington, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/StudentServices/CareerServices/career_services.htm

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FOR THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN
Gifts from corporate supporters count toward the goals of For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students. This University-wide fundraising effort is directed toward a shared vision of Penn State as the most comprehensive, student-centered research university in America. The University is engaging Penn State’s alumni and friends as partners in achieving six key objectives: ensuring student access and opportunity, enhancing honors education, enriching the student experience, building faculty strength and capacity, fostering discovery and creativity, and sustaining the University’s tradition of quality. The campaign’s top priority is keeping a Penn State degree affordable for students and families. The For the Future campaign is the most ambitious effort of its kind in Penn State’s history, with the goal of securing $2 billion in private support by 2014. Penn State New Kensington's goal is $3 million.

FOUR HONORED FOR SERVICE TO PENN STATE

Although they received rocking chairs as gifts, four faculty members at Penn State New Kensington won’t be using them anytime soon. Javier Gomez-Calderon, Joan Kowalski, Lois Rubin and Kwang-Shang Wang were honored Aug. 18 for 25 years of service to Penn State.

Gomez-Calderon, professor of mathematics, joined the New Kensington mathematics department in 1986, after seven years as a graduate associate and teaching assistant at the University of Arizona, where he earned his master's and doctorate degrees in mathematics. The recipient of numerous teaching awards, he was given the Milton S. Eisenhower Award for Distinguished Teaching in 2007. The University-wide award recognizes excellence in teaching and student support among tenured faculty members. Milton S. Eisenhower, brother of former U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower, served as president of Penn State from 1950 to 1956.

"I am lucky because I have been living my dream of teaching mathematics for more than two-thirds of my life," said Gomez-Calderon, whose wife, Maria Franco-De Gomez, is an instructor in Spanish at the campus. "I am not an outstanding teacher, nor am I an important mathematician. I simply enjoy doing my job."

Kowalski, senior instructor in engineering, earned a position with the campus faculty in 1987. A Penn State alumna, she earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in civil engineering at the University Park campus. She is the co-founder the Females Interested in Reaching for Science, Technology and Engineering (FIRSTE) Program in 1993 and advisor to the campus chapter of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE). A recipient of the campus' "Excellence in Teaching" award, Kowalski has presented papers at various professional conferences.

Rubin, associate professor of English, has taught composition and women's literature courses at the campus since 1985. She holds a doctorate from Carnegie Mellon University, and her research explores the creative development and conflicting identities of characters in the novels of women writers, in particular Jewish women writers. She edited and contributed two essays to a book on Jewish-American female writers, "Connections and Collisions: Identities in Contemporary Jewish-American Women's Writing." Rubin arranges for guest speakers for "Holocaust, in Remembrance," an annual program that educates students about the atrocities of the Holocaust.

"I continue to do the program because I think we still need to be mindful of the terrible consequences of hatred and prejudice," said Rubin, a native of Pittsburgh. "Time is passing, and members of the World War II generation are aging. In a few years, the survivors of the Holocaust will not be around to tell us their stories in person."

Wang, assistant professor of mathematics, is a native of Taipei, Taiwan. He joined the campus faculty in 1985 after earning his master's and doctorate degrees from the University of Arizona. Among his literary accomplishments is a book in Chinese that was published in Beijing.

The quartet’s silver anniversaries were celebrated during the annual Faculty Orientation program that is held the week before the start of the fall semester.

For more information on the honored faculty, read these bios from the award presentation (pdf).

SOCIALIST REALISM STYLE OF CHINESE PAINTER
Artist's Reception and Show Closing:
5:00-7:00 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 29, Art Gallery

A reception for Chinese artist Naijun Zhang is set for 5-7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 29 in the Penn State New Kensington Art Gallery. The event coincides with the closing of his show that has been running throughout September.

Zhang, assistant professor of painting at West Virginia University, is a veteran of one-man shows and group exhibitions throughout the United States and China. Working with oil on linen or canvas, Zhang paints ordinary people going about their daily activities. His style is socialist realism, which he learned at the Nanjing Art Institute in China. 

Zhang's works have been displayed at OK Harris Works of Art in New York, Michael Berger Gallery in Pittsburgh, Florida State University Museum of Fine Arts in Tallahassee, and the Shanghai Exhibition Center and Jiangsu Provincial Museum of Art in China.

"Naijun is an extraordinary artist I have been trying to get in the gallery for some time," said Bud Gibbons, professor of visual arts at the New Kensington campus and director of the art gallery. "His catalog is excellent."

He learned the socialist realism style at the Nanjing Art Institute in China. The artists and professors he studied under during the Cultural Revolution were influenced by Russian Academic Realists, who introduced the method to China. Socialist realism portrays works of social concern, such as the poor.
 
"My experience growing up during the Chinese Cultural Revolution is visually expressed in these paintings," said Zhang, who joined the WVU faculty in 1999. "They not only produce a multifaceted portrait of China with contradictions but also show a respect for this mythical world of my formative years. My aim in these paintings is to examine the tradition of Socialist Realist painting and cultural forces of the Cultural Revolution and bring perspective on people who may see the world only from one viewpoint."

The exhibit and the reception are free to the public. The Art Gallery is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and noon to 5 p.m. weekends.

The monthly exhibits at the Penn State New Kensington Art Gallery have been finalized for 2011-12.

The fall series continues in October with a multi-media exhibit of Marilyn Rea. November features the art works by students from the Oakbridge Academy, and the fall series concludes in December with the annual display by the East Suburban Artists' Association.

The spring semester exhibits include the "Women of Visions" exhibit in January and February, Alle-Kiski Arts Consortium in March and Penn State New Kensington students in April. The series concludes in May with "Paintings," the annual showing of selected works of Bud Gibbons, professor of visual arts at the New Kensington campus.

All exhibits are free to the public. The gallery is open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and noon to 5 p.m. weekends.

For information on the Art Gallery, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/43828.htm online.

 
^{"Street Basketball, oil on canvas, 17 5/8" x 18 5/8"}             

^{"Tibetan Shoppers," oil on linen, 20" x 16"}

Monthly Art Exhibits 2011-12

October: Marilyn Rea
November: Oakbridge Academy
December: East Suburban Artists League (ESAL)
January-February: Women of Visions
March: Alle-Kiski Arts Consortium-High School Students
April: Penn State Students
May: Bud Gibbons "Paintings"

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Receive stories like this in your email. The Penn State New Kensington Newswire is a free weekly electronic update of news and announcements from the campus. You can get timely information about new academic programs, admissions, career services, student activities, athletics, development and alumni, continuing education, and much more in your e-mail every Thursday. You can also subscribe to the free daily newswire service from University Park and other campuses. To keep in touch with the latest buzz, go to: http://newswires.psu.edu/

FOR THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN
Gifts from corporate supporters count toward the goals of For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students. This University-wide fundraising effort is directed toward a shared vision of Penn State as the most comprehensive, student-centered research university in America. The University is engaging Penn State’s alumni and friends as partners in achieving six key objectives: ensuring student access and opportunity, enhancing honors education, enriching the student experience, building faculty strength and capacity, fostering discovery and creativity, and sustaining the University’s tradition of quality. The campaign’s top priority is keeping a Penn State degree affordable for students and families. The For the Future campaign is the most ambitious effort of its kind in Penn State’s history, with the goal of securing $2 billion in private support by 2014. Penn State New Kensington's goal is $3 million.

"BLUE AND WHITE LIONS NIGHT"
6:00 p.m., Friday, September 30, Hill Crest Country Club

The third annual Chancellor's Gala officially opens Penn State New Kensington's Fall Festival at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 30, at Hill Crest Country Club.

The theme of the gala is "Blue and White Lions Night," and the event brings together founders, donors, alumni, students, faculty and staff, and features dinner and dancing, silent auction, mystery box sale and raffle items. The cost is $75.

For more information, contact Tina Sluss at 724-334-6056 or tms57@psu.edu.

For more on the festival, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/FallFestival online.

MAJOR SPONSORS

McCutcheon Enterprises Inc.
Calvin McCutcheon

Industrial Automation & Control
Robert "Doc" Mueller

CAMPUS PHILANTHOPY
Biannual publication for benefactors, alumni and
friends of the New Kensington campus

The fall 2011 issue of "Campus Philanthropy," the biannual newsmagazine for benefactors of Penn State New Kensington, is available on the campus website.

Highlights of the 12-page, four-color publication include the Chancellor's Gala and Fall Festival; Barbara Arnold named Alumni Fellow; new support for renovations of the Athletics Center; and a recap of summer construction on campus.

To receive a hard copy of the newsletter, email uxw1@psu.edu or call 724-334-6049.

To view the fall edition, visit Campus Philanthrophy Fall 2011 (pdf)

SIGN-UP FOR FREE NEWSWIRE SERVICE
Receive stories like this in your email. The Penn State New Kensington Newswire is a free weekly electronic update of news and announcements from the campus. You can get timely information about new academic programs, admissions, career services, student activities, athletics, development and alumni, continuing education, and much more in your e-mail every Thursday. You can also subscribe to the free daily newswire service from University Park and other campuses. To keep in touch with the latest buzz, go to: http://newswires.psu.edu

FOR THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN
Gifts from corporate supporters count toward the goals of "For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students." This University-wide fundraising effort is directed toward a shared vision of Penn State as the most comprehensive, student-centered research university in America. The University is engaging Penn State’s alumni and friends as partners in achieving six key objectives: ensuring student access and opportunity, enhancing honors education, enriching the student experience, building faculty strength and capacity, fostering discovery and creativity, and sustaining the University’s tradition of quality. The campaign’s top priority is keeping a Penn State degree affordable for students and families. The "For the Future" campaign is the most ambitious effort of its kind in Penn State’s history, with the goal of securing $2 billion in private support by 2014. Penn State New Kensington's goal is $3 million. For more about the campaign and to give online, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Giving/givetoday.htm

NEW KENSINGTON CIVIC THEATRE AND
PENN STATE NEW KENSINGTON

Auditions:
7:00 p.m., Monday and Tuesday, Aug. 29 and 30, Forum Theatre

Stage Production:
"Lucky Stiff"
Thursday-Sunday, October 27-30, Forum Theatre

SIGN-UP FOR FREE NEWSWIRE SERVICE
Receive stories like this in your email. The Penn State New Kensington Newswire is a free weekly electronic update of news and announcements from the campus. You can get timely information about new academic programs, admissions, career services, student activities, athletics, development and alumni, continuing education, and much more in your e-mail every Thursday. You can also subscribe to the free daily newswire service from University Park and other campuses. To keep in touch with the latest buzz, go to: http://newswires.psu.edu/

FOR THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN
Gifts from corporate supporters count toward the goals of For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students. This University-wide fundraising effort is directed toward a shared vision of Penn State as the most comprehensive, student-centered research university in America. The University is engaging Penn State’s alumni and friends as partners in achieving six key objectives: ensuring student access and opportunity, enhancing honors education, enriching the student experience, building faculty strength and capacity, fostering discovery and creativity, and sustaining the University’s tradition of quality. The campaign’s top priority is keeping a Penn State degree affordable for students and families. The For the Future campaign is the most ambitious effort of its kind in Penn State’s history, with the goal of securing $2 billion in private support by 2014. Penn State New Kensington's goal is $3 million.

PROCEEDS PROVIDE
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR CAMPUS STUDENTS

Bolstered by two new sponsors and a field of 21 groups, the Alle-Kiski Society raised a record $6,800 at its Aug. 12 Alumni Golf Scramble at the Links at Spring Church. The total doubled the previous record of $3,400 that was set in 2005. Last year the outing brought in $3,200.

The Burrell Group Inc. and its subsidiary, Westmoreland Insurance Services, sponsored the post-tournament dinner, and LaRusse Distributing Co. sponsored the on-course beverage cart. In addition, 18 individuals or businesses signed-up as tee sponsors, including 12 sponsors who also brought a foursome to the outing.  Those sponsorships helped to swell the field to a record 83 golfers. There were seven groups from the New Kensington campus, the most since the event was established in 2000 by Bill Salem, former president of the society.

Kerry Kelly, current president of the society, attributed the 100 percent increase in profits to the additional support from the campus and the community, as well as the venue.

“The Alle-Kiski Society was able to double our proceeds because of the turnout by faculty and staff and the alumni and business community,” said Kelly, who was elected to a two-year term in June. “We hope to build on these relationships and continue to grow the tournament. The Spring Church course was in great shape, and the staff was well organized and very accommodating.”

Roger Heasley, captain of the Gotham Rogues, sinks the birdie putt on the nine
enroute to a 10-under and a fourth-place finish.

Fundraising and foursome totals weren’t the only standards to be eclipsed. For the third consecutive year, a new tournament scoring record was established as Minuteman Press of Lower Burrell posted a 16-under to capture the 2011 Alumni Scramble title. The winning team, Tony Colecchi, Anthony Giotto, Bob Sciullo and Dennis Colecchi, cleared the field by three shots and bested last year's total by one.

Proceeds from the scramble are earmarked for the "Alle-Kiski Society Endowed Scholarship" at Penn State New Kensington that funds yearly awards to campus undergraduates. For the 2011-12 year, the society will award $3,000 in scholarships to five students. Since 1998, $33,000 has been awarded to 43 students.

And in an effort to boost the amount of scholarship money in the future, the society has pledged $25,000 to increase the principal of its endowment from its current total of $51,000 to $76,000 during the current University-wide fundraising effort, "For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students."

Photos of the event are available on the society's facebook page and the campus' gallery on SmugMug. The 13^th edition of the Alumni Scramble is scheduled for Friday, Aug. 10, at the Links at Spring Church.

For photos and a list of sponsors and golfers, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Information/News/43777.htm#NEWS43777 online.

For photo sampler of the outing, visit the Alle-Kiski Society, Penn State Alumni Association facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/pages/Penn-State-New-Kensington/86093795729#!/media/set/?set=a.235396916502833.60288.172113656164493

To view all photos of the outing, visit the campus gallery on SmugMug, http://psnk.smugmug.com/Events/Alumni-Golf-Scramble/18549414_xm6RDZ#1432280155_RjMqQWS

SPONSORS

"FOR THE FUTURE" DINNER
Burrell Group Inc./Westmoreland Insurance Services



"ROARING LION" BEVERAGE CART
LaRusse Distributing Co.

"BLUE/WHITE" TEE BOX
Moret Construction Co., Anthony Moret,
J & L Installers Inc, Jerry Johns and Lorri Wildi
All About Eyes, Michelle Polimadei,
Trib Total Media: Valley News Dispatch, Jeff Domenick
PSNK Chancellor's Office, Kevin Snider
Minuteman Press, Tony Colecchi
AutomatedLogic, Bob Gutnic
Mike Bonk Grill & Barry's Sports Bar, Vietnam Vets
Sodini and Co., Bob Sodini
DJ Double K, Kerry Kelly
Pat Ostien, EMET 2005
Habsco Corp, George Hubbard,
Michael Burgart, Tax Accountant and Janet Valasek
Industrial Automation & Control, Doc Mueller
AXA Advisors, Stuart Valen
PrepTech, Barb Arnold
Monticello Mortgage Co, Rick Monti, Angelo DiCello
Valos Candy Co., John Mandak

"LIONS PAW" PRIZES/DONATIONS
Pittsburgh Zoo, Dr. Barbara Baker
Larry and Sudee Pollock, Alumni
Penn State Golf Courses, Joe Hughes, Golf Professional
Anytime Fitness-Natrona Heights, Bill Keller
The Links at Spring Church, Al Frantik and Stacy Pasternak
Penn State New Kensington Faculty
Jack Rupp, Alumnus
Eric Felack, Chief Photographer, Valley News Dispatch
Athletic Department, Penn State New Kensington, Dave Murray, Athletic Director


GOLF FOURSOMES (Tee Assignments)

Minuteman Press (2)
Tony Colecchi, Anthony Giotto, Bob Sciullo, Dennis Colecchi

AutomatedLogic (3B)
Bob Gutnic, Jeff Overman, Bob Stokes, Cory Bushman

Mike Bonk Grill and Barry's Sports Bar (3A)
Mike Bonk, Barry Farina, Nick Farina, Bob Funkhauser

Habsco Corp (11) 
George Hubbard, Barbara Hubbard, Tiger Hubbard, Dave Randolph

Trib Total Media, Valley News Dispatch (7B)
Michael Aubele, Roger Parsons, Dave Williams, Bill Beckner

Gotham Rogues (9)
Roger Heasley, Ed Sullivan, John Ahr, Bob Hendricks

Development (16)
Donna Speer, Terry Speer, Barbara Baxter, Don Crosby

Sodini and Co (12)
Bob Sodini, Brad Walters , Dan Walters, John Peters

Business Services (6) 
Jason Bush, John Luchini, Luke Taiclet, Kirk Urey

McClure Johnston (5)
Dan Obriot, Rick Fetterman, Vern Shoemaker, Darren Mull

Academic Affairs (13) 
Arlene Hall, Cindy Funk, Dave Huggins

Chancellor's Office (10)
(2008 champ)
Kevin Snider, Dave Murray, Steve Molitierno, Greg Soxman

AXA Advisors-I (15A) 
Jerry Bahnak, Larry Petrillo, Herman Demao, Ken Burgun

AXA Advisors-II (15B)
Bob Long, Larry Garvin, Mike Polimadei, John Dolmajer

AXA Advisors-III (14)
Stuart Valen, Fred Polimadei, Ron Redner, Jerry Eisaman

DJ Double K (7A)
(2009 champ):
Kerry Kelly, Chris Broberg, Ryan Wilson, Cory Stump

Flexmar Coating (8)
Jack Bracco, Chuck Weston, Pat Ostien, Chet Howell

Industrial Automation & Control (17)
Jeff Bishop, Anthony Balsamico, Jeff Hessom, Luke Solomon|

Burrell Group/Westmoreland Insurance Services (1) 
Andy Baxter, John Popies, Tim Adams, Scott Seapker

Monticello Mortgage Co. (18)
Rick Monti, Ricky Monti, Angelo DiCello, Mike Matyrs

PSNK Public Relations (4)
(Defending the Title)
Bill Woodard, Bill Christy, Bill Keller, John "Bill" Mandak

A record-setting day. Twenty-one groups set a participant record; 16-under by Minuteman Press of Lower Burrell set a scoring record; and $6,800 set a fundraisng record.

SIGN-UP FOR FREE NEWSWIRE SERVICE
Receive stories like this in your email. The Penn State New Kensington Newswire is a free weekly electronic update of news and announcements from the campus. You can get timely information about new academic programs, admissions, career services, student activities, athletics, development and alumni, continuing education, and much more in your e-mail every Thursday. You can also subscribe to the free daily newswire service from University Park and other campuses. To keep in touch with the latest buzz, go to: http://newswires.psu.edu/

FOR THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN
Gifts from corporate supporters count toward the goals of For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students. This University-wide fundraising effort is directed toward a shared vision of Penn State as the most comprehensive, student-centered research university in America. The University is engaging Penn State’s alumni and friends as partners in achieving six key objectives: ensuring student access and opportunity, enhancing honors education, enriching the student experience, building faculty strength and capacity, fostering discovery and creativity, and sustaining the University’s tradition of quality. The campaign’s top priority is keeping a Penn State degree affordable for students and families. The For the Future campaign is the most ambitious effort of its kind in Penn State’s history, with the goal of securing $2 billion in private support by 2014.

STILL NOT TOO LATE TO ENROLL FOR FALL SEMESTER
Call 724-334-LION or 1-888-968-PAWS

There is still time to sign up for fall classes at Penn State New Kensington -- registration continues until Thursday, Sept. 1.

Late registration, for classes that begin later in the semester, begins Sept. 2. The fall semester got under way Aug. 22. There are no classes scheduled on Labor Day, Sept. 5. The 15-week semester ends Dec. 9, and final exams conclude on Dec. 16. Commencement is Dec. 17. The week long Thanksgiving holiday break is Nov. 21-25.

For a schedule of fall classes, visit http://www.nk.psu.edu/Academics/courses.htm online.

SIGN-UP FOR FREE NEWSWIRE SERVICE
Receive stories like this in your email. The Penn State New Kensington Newswire is a free weekly electronic update of news and announcements from the campus. You can get timely information about new academic programs, admissions, career services, student activities, athletics, development and alumni, continuing education, and much more in your e-mail every Thursday. You can also subscribe to the free daily newswire service from University Park and other campuses. To keep in touch with the latest buzz, go to: http://newswires.psu.edu/

FOR THE FUTURE CAMPAIGN
Gifts from corporate supporters count toward the goals of For the Future: The Campaign for Penn State Students. This University-wide fundraising effort is directed toward a shared vision of Penn State as the most comprehensive, student-centered research university in America. The University is engaging Penn State’s alumni and friends as partners in achieving six key objectives: ensuring student access and opportunity, enhancing honors education, enriching the student experience, building faculty strength and capacity, fostering discovery and creativity, and sustaining the University’s tradition of quality. The campaign’s top priority is keeping a Penn State degree affordable for students and families. The For the Future campaign is the most ambitious effort of its kind in Penn State’s history, with the goal of securing $2 billion in private support by 2014. Penn State New Kensington's goal is $3 million.

FACULTY SPEAKER SERIES
presents
"INSIGHT FORUM"
6:00 p.m., Monday, Oct. 10, Forum Theatre

Whether it's breaking down the electability of Republican presidential aspirants, dissecting the re-election of President Obama or scrutinizing the elected representatives of the commonwealth, pollster Terry Madonna utilizes the current data and opinions at his disposal.

 A regular commentator on radio and TV political shows, and a quotable source for newspapers and magazines, Madonna brings his insights on the 2011 political landscape of Pennsylvania to Penn State New Kensington at 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 10, in the campus Forum Theatre. A reception to meet the speaker follows the program.

Madonna, director of the Franklin and Marshall Keystone Poll, makes a return engagement for "Insight Forum," the campus' lecture and discussion program that is geared to the local community. He spoke previously at the campus in spring 2010.

A professor of public affairs and director of the Center for Politics and Public Affairs at Franklin and Marshall College in Lancaster, Pa., Madonna earned a national reputation as founder of the 20-year old Keystone poll, the oldest survey produced exclusively in Pennsylvania. He polls for the Philadelphia Daily News, Times-Shamrock Newspapers, Pittsburgh Tribune Review, WGAL-TV (Lancaster), and WTAE-TV (Pittsburgh).

For more than 30 years, Madonna has taught and written about his academic specialties: American presidency, and American political parties and political behavior. As a pollster, he has written extensively about voters and voting behavior. In 2008, Franklin and Marshall College began a partnership with Hearst-Argyle Television to conduct national polls. Hearst owns 26 television stations, manages two others, and owns two radio stations. Madonna directs the poll.

Before joining the faculty at Franklin and Marshall in 2004, Madonna was professor and chair of the Government Department at Millersville University. He holds a doctorate in political history from the University of Delaware.

Sponsored by the campus' Faculty Spea