April 19, 2017

t-notes archive

Next Issue: April 26, 2017

Thiel Happenings

Three seniors recognized for campus contributions with April Student of the Month honors

Thiel College, a leading liberal arts college in northwest Pennsylvania, announces Elizabeth Carlson ’17, of Kane, Pa., Julia Fink ’17, of Andover, Ohio, and Beverley Kozuch ’17, of Templeton, Pa., as its April Students of the Month.

+ Read the full story in the newsroom

Community Medical Ethics Project presentation will delve into age-based health care rationing

The Community Medical Ethics Project will host a presentation on April 26 at Thiel College, a leading liberal arts college in northwestern Pennsylvania, with recognized bioethics expert Alex London, Ph.D., who will discuss if age should be a factor for rationing of health care.

+ Read the full story in the newsroom

James Pedas Professor of Communication published in top academic journals

Thiel College James Pedas Professor of Communication Dane S. Claussen, Ph.D., reviewed three modern communication texts for two of the most recognized academic journals in communication theory.

+ Read the full story in the newsroom

‘Science Connector’ taking shape

The steel beams for the $4.5 million “Science Connector” facility were recently put in place. It is on course for its summer completion and dedication at Homecoming 2017. The new facility will add 7,850 square feet of collaborative and lab space. 

Scarpitti discusses the power of ‘PRAYER’ for business seminar students

Joe Scarpitti ’80 is one of four students of Professor David Miller ’61 who also returned to Thiel College in a teaching capacity. Scarpitti was back on campus on April 5. This time he was a leading a class in a different fashion, as a speaker for Miller’s senior business seminar. Scarpitti discussed many things, including the acronym PRAYER, which Scarpitti said is an acronym he uses to remember important phases of plan and a fundamental habit for him.

“The senior seminar is designed to help students have the opportunity to learn how to plan for their lives, find jobs and become better men and women. Mr. Scarpitti is one such example of whom to especially listen to—he was humble about his success.” — Hunter Michaelis ’17

“Overall, I truly feel as though Joe’s words made an impact on me. I am at a crossroads in my life, and I am not as worried after listening to his advice. I am excited for the next chapter of my life and ready to start it as soon as possible.” — Amanda Zimmerman ’17

“The meal was amazing, with possibly the most delicious dessert yet. It was great to meet Joe, hear his stories over dinner and spend time with my classmates and favorite professors. It was a fantastic evening followed by a wonderful presentation. Thank you, Professor Miller!” — Carly Romano ’17

“This week’s business seminar presentation was different than the previous presentations. This presentation reflected not on the career path of one person, but the discovery of that one person’s life guiding principles through their journey. This presentation instilled inspiration in the eyes of many students nervous about entering the business world.” — Cody Patterson ’17

“Joe Scarpitti was definitely my favorite speaker so far. Professor Miller introduced him as one of four students that has come back to teach with him, which I thought was really special. Then Professor Witosky gave him a warm introduction as he reminisced on their time together at Thiel. I think it says a lot about how connected we are at Thiel that Joe and Professor Witosky are still close friends today.” — Jaclyn Kuzma ’17

“(Scarpitti) gave an acronym of an outline he uses in his life to stay on track. The acronym is PRAYER, which stands for plan and prepare, read, attitude, yes enthusiasm and respect. Each part has a different factor, and they are necessary individually and are stronger together. I believe that this is a good guiding principle to have, and I honestly would like to try my best to incorporate these into my life. The final point Joe made was putting that acronym together and creating what Joe believes is the eighth wonder of the world, which is prayer. He says prayer is a steady part of his life where he asks for God’s guidance in his life. It was a powerful experience to see someone get up in front of a group of people and talk about faith.” — Dan Wiegmann ’17

Schedule of events for the inauguration and installation of President Traverso

Thiel College will install Susan Traverso, Ph.D., as its 20th president on Friday, May 5.

Inauguration Schedule

11 a.m. Inaugural Chapel Service, David Johnson Memorial Chapel
Noon Delegates and Trustees Luncheon, Lutheran Heritage Room, Howard Miller Student Center
1:30 p.m. Delegates Robing and Procession, Friends of Art Lounge, Howard Miller Student Center
2 p.m. Presidential Inauguration Ceremony, William A. Passavant Memorial Center
3:30 p.m. Inaugural Reception, Howard Miller Student Center Terrace and Campus Lawn

Student News

Witosky discusses Montessori schools with elementary education students

Students in the Integrating the Arts into Lesson Plan Design class of Doug Hazlett, Ph.D., were visited by Kate Witosky (wife of Professor of Business and Department Chair Gary Witosky ’79) on April 10. Kate Witosky lectured on Montessori schools.

The class will travel to the Hershey Montessori School in Concord, Ohio this month to observe classes there.

Chi Alpha Epsilon inducts three new members

The Gamma Sigma chapter of Chi Alpha Epsilon National Honor Society held its induction ceremony for new members on March 27.

Kristina Cotton ’18, Michel Duncan ’18, and McKenna Morian ’17 were inducted as new members and Nancy Katz and Noel Stanger ’07 were inducted as honorary members. They are both Thiel Learning Commons academic coaches and adjunct faculty members in the Department of English.

Society members Trey Andrews ’18, Jordan Fitchie ’17, Jordan Francis ’18, Christine Girata ’18, Megan Lee ’19, and Justin Walter ’19 assisted with the ceremony.

Diane Donnelly, honorary member and Thiel Learning Commons director and academic adviser, serves as chapter adviser.

Etc.

Tomcat Tributes

Tomcat Tributes are designed to recognize the teamwork Thiel College employees exhibit each day. Employees can nominate co-workers for recognition in four categories (Random Act of Kindness, Going the Extra Mile, Had a Great Idea, Just Because).

Special Notes

Events

Campus Events

‘The Hunting Grounds’ Viewing and Discussion
Wednesday from 6-10 p.m.
Stamm Lecture Hall, James Pedas Communication Center

Join AWARE Inc., a non-profit organization as they premiere “The Hunting Grounds,” an expose on rape crimes on U.S. campuses, institutional cover-ups and the social toll on victims and their families. Mercer County Assistant District Attorney Dave Wenger, J.D., will speak about the development of a special victims unit he is working on, and its cooperation with spreading campus awareness in regards to sexual assault/rape. Refreshments will be provided.

For more information, contact De’Ja Roundtree-Gibbs ’17.

LGBT Q&A
Wednesday at 4 p.m.
Lutheran Heritage Room, Howard Miller Student Center

A forum/panel moderated by Thiel College faculty where students are free to ask questions about the LGBT+ community.

For more information, contact Aelita Ferrante ’17.

The Alliance Drag Show
Thursday at 9 p.m.
Lutheran Heritage Room, Howard Miller Student Center

Bambi Deerest, as well as several other local performers, take the stage at the annual LGBT+ Alliance Drag Show.

For more information, contact Aelita Ferrante ’17.

Thiel Players: Avenue Q
Friday-Sunday
William A. Robinson Theater

A tender and sometimes raunchy musical comedy with puppets has performances on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Performances are free and open to the public, but reservations are encouraged. Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday.

For reservations, email reservations@thiel.edu or call 724-589-2847.

National Society of Leadership and Success Induction
Friday at 5 p.m.
Weyers Lounge, Howard Miller Student Center

The award ceremony and induction of new members will also feature a keynote speaker.

For more information, contact Christine Cianci ’96.

Spring Into Action!
Saturday from noon to 3 p.m.
Downtown Greenville

This year's efforts will be focused on Main Street in downtown Greenville. Volunteers will have the opportunity to help with service projects to enhance the downtown area. All are welcome to participate! Check-in begins at noon outside the Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce. The first 200 students to sign up will get t-shirts.

For more information, contact studentactivities@thiel.edu.

TC Relay for Life
Saturday from 3 to 9 p.m.
Alumni Stadium

The Thiel College Relay for Life event to raise funds for the American Cancer Society.

For more information, contact Laken Shields ’17.

Walk A Mile
Sunday at 1 p.m.
David Johnson Memorial Chapel

The Walk A Mile event promotes awareness of the importance of sexual assault prevention.

For more information, De’Ja Roundtree-Gibbs ’17.

Outdoor Recreation Club Kickoff Hike and Bonfire
Sunday at 3 p.m.
Riverside Park and The Quad

A hike along the trails in Riverside Park and a bonfire on the Quad will kick off the new Outdoor Recreation Club. Anyone interested should meet at the Quad at 3 p.m. for the hike and the bonfire will start after the hike.

Refreshments and games will be available.

For more information, contact Brent Henderson ’20.

‘Tickling Giants’ 
Tuesday at 6 p.m.
Stamm Lecture Hall, James Pedas Communication Center

The documentary “Tickling Giants” follows the story of Bassem Youssef, called “Egypt’s Jon Stewart,” as he launches a satirical television show during Egypt’s 2011 revolution. The documentary offers insights into the events of the Arab Spring, Egyptian politics, and more general questions about free speech and the uses of satire. The screening is free and open to the public with the support of an Impact Grant from the film’s producers.

For more information, contact Sheila Nowinski, Ph.D.

Ongoing Events

Worship on Wednesdays
Today at 4 p.m.
David Johnson Memorial Chapel

All are welcome for hymns, prayers, a message and Holy Communion during this weekly service.  

For more information, contact Pastor Jayne Thompson at ext. 2130.

Aikido classes
Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6 p.m.
Johnson Community Center lobby

Aikido classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays during the academic year except on holidays and College breaks. 

For more information, contact Pastor Jayne Thompson at ext. 2130.

Community Events

Meadville Girls Soccer Bucs and Pucks Penny Raffle
Through April 30
Office of Communications and Marketing

Dominick DiRienzo is selling penny raffle tickets to support the Meadville High School girls soccer team. Prizes include Pirates and Penguins tickets and two $100 gift cards. Tickets cost a random amount between $0.01 and $9.99 and will be determined by a blind drawing at time of purchase.

For more information, contact DiRienzo at ext. 2188.

Mother’s Day Buffet at The Cornerstone 1908
May 14 at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
The Keifer Building at St. Paul’s, 341 E. Jamestown Road

The Cornerstone 1908 at St. Paul’s is hosting a Mother’s Day buffet. The cost is $21.95 for each adult, $9.95 for each child under 10 years and free for children 2 and younger. Seatings are set for 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Prices do not include beverage, tax and tip.

For reservations, call 724-589-4500.

T-Notes Publishing Schedule

The next issue of T-Notes will be out Wednesday, April 26.

Send your submissions by noon Monday, April 24 to tnotes@thiel.edu.

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