DuBois - John Sider, Deputy Secretary for the Technology Investment Office within the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) will be the main speaker for the B.I.G.* awards dinner.  The B.I.G.* Competition (*Business Ideas Gone Wild) will award the grand prize winner up $11,000 in cash and services to develop and market an invention or idea.  The competition is designed to spur regional economic development through support of local creative ideas. It is sponsored jointly by the North Central Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission, the Office for Technology Transfer at Penn State DuBois, and the Greater DuBois Chamber of Commerce.  The completion ended September 14, and the first, second, and two runner-up award winners will be announced at the awards dinner to be held Thursday, November 19, at the DuBois Country Club.

As Deputy Secretary, Sider manages $77 million in annual appropriations and invests and oversees $1.1 billion.  The Technology Investment Office serves as a catalyst for growth and competitiveness for Pennsylvania companies and universities by financing innovation, creating partnerships, and providing support services through technology-based economic development initiatives.

Sider brings a wealth of experience in finance and economic development to his role as deputy secretary.  Prior to his appointment as deputy secretary, John served as the director of venture investment for DCED and helped to significantly increase the amount of risk capital available to Pennsylvania entrepreneurs.  In a previous position, as the lending group leader for Community First Fund, John conducted more than a dozen nationally certified entrepreneurial training classes in communities in Central Pennsylvania.

During his speech, Sider will present ideas to the budding entrepreneurs that are designed to help them advance their products or services to market.  His message will provide new ideas to the many business, professional, chamber, college, Ben Franklin Technology Partners, Clarion SBDC staff, and county commissioners who have been invited to join Senator Joe Scarnati, Representative Matt Gabler, Representative Bud George, Congressman Glenn Thompson and other associates from the DCED at the dinner.

The B.I.G.* Competition was open to teams, small businesses and individuals, over 18, who resided in Cameron, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, McKean, or Potter Counties.  Applications for the Competition were received from people in five of the six counties.  Out of a total of 31 completed entries, eight were service-oriented; 23 entries presented product ideas. 

DuBois – Three Penn State DuBois alumni were recently honored for their accomplishments at the annual Penn State DuBois Alumni Society Awards Ceremony held in the Hiller Auditorium.  Stacie Peles, originally from Glenn Campbell, PA, Brent Pasquinelli, of St Marys, and Charles Snapp, of Mount Jewett all received awards for their unique success.

Peles is the 2009 recipient of the Dave Shaffer Outstanding Young Alumni Award.  Since earning her bachelor's degree in Business Administration in 2005, Peles has moved to North Carolina to work as an account executive with Motorsports Authentics, where she is responsible for more than one million dollars in sales revenue.  Before moving south, Peles was also an Instructor of Marketing at Cambria-Rowe Business College.  Her former Penn State DuBois Business Instructor, Laurie Breakey, presented the award.

"I've taught for 20 years, and I can honestly say I've never seen such a high quality person as Stacie Peles," Breakey said, remembering Peles as a student.  "One person like that can reshape an entire classroom."

"I am so very honored and blessed to be here before you tonight," Peles said upon accepting the award.  She went on to thank her family, friends, and members of the campus community in the audience for helping her to achieve her goals.  "I wouldn't be where I am today without the people in this room.  Thanks to all of you here tonight.  You helped make me the person I am."

Pasquinelli, the recipient of the Outstanding Alumni Award, attended Penn State DuBois in 1971 and 1972.  He served with the Construction Engineering Corps. of the United States Army in Vietnam, where he earned a Purple Heart.  He returned home to Elk County to be elected a Fox Township Supervisor at the age of 21, while enrolled at Penn State DuBois.  He also served as a delegate for President Jimmy Carter's campaign in 1976.  He started his own travel company in 1978.  Today, Pasquinelli's company, eTravCo, is the third largest travel network in the country. Pasquinelli also continues to be involved with public affairs, serving as Congressman Glenn Thompson's Chief of Political Operations for the Fifth District.

Pasquinelli's long-time friend, Jack Infield, presented the award.  Now a Regional President with Graystone Bank, Infield taught Physical Education at Penn State DuBois when Pasquinelli was a student.  Infield remembered the support he got from Pasquinelli when he lost his wife to cancer several years ago.  That kind of support, Infield remarked, is what Pasquinelli also offers his community, saying, "He is a Superman in our community.  I could go on forever about what he has done, but here is what's important. He doesn't just lend his name to any project.  You also get his whole heart and full work ethic to get the job done."

Upon accepting the award in honor of his parents and grandfather, Pasquinelli praised the support he got from his campus mentors for preparing him for success.  He said, "What this campus gave me was the confidence, the support, and the encouragement I needed." 

The Lifetime Achievement Alumni Award went to Charles Snapp.  Snapp graduated from Kane Area High School in 1960, and from Penn State DuBois, with an Accounting Degree, in 1963.  He worked as a Field Auditor for the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue for 30 years, and retired in 1994.  As a dedicated advocate of education he has established two scholarships which benefit Penn State DuBois students. The Charles E. and Charlotte J. Snapp Memorial Trustee Scholarship, which was established in his parents’ honor, is awarded primarily to business students. The Fred D. Falkinburg Trustee Scholarship, named after his cousin, assists forestry program students. As a current committee member of For the Future; the Campaign for Penn State Students, he serves on the Alumni Subcommittee. He also works closely with faculty from the Wildlife Department on research related to land and forest preservation.

Chancellor Anita McDonald presented Snapp's award.  She recalled meeting Snapp when she first came to campus nearly seven years ago.  "He came to my office and we talked about the campus, and the students, and the next thing I knew, Charles said he would like to establish a Trustee Matching Scholarship," McDonald said.  "Charles was the first individual to establish such a scholarship here at our campus, and it was just tremendous." 

McDonald went on to describe the man behind the philanthropy.  "Charles is a very warm and kind individual.  He cares deeply about others.  I can think of no one more deserving of the Lifetime Achievement Award than Charles Snapp," she said.  "He started humbly, worked hard, and became successful.  Now, he's reaching back to help our campus and our students."

Snapp, while accepting his award, explained his desire to support scholarships, relating a story about a conversation he had with a teacher upon his high school graduation.  "He asked what my plans were after graduation.  I told him I'd find work, because I couldn't afford college.  He told me to look into financial aid.  I did, and it ultimately led to my graduation from Penn State DuBois in December, 1963.  That's why I give back to the place that laid the foundation for all the achievements I've made in my life."

Snapp said his plans for the future are simple.  To continue to invest and expand his stock portfolio, and to support Penn State DuBois. 

At the closing of the ceremony, Alumni Society President Carrie Wood expressed her admiration for the award winners. Having heard their stories, Wood said, "Wow, you have all really blown me away.  You give us all something to aspire to." 

DuBois – Two Penn State DuBois students had the honor of being the only undergraduate students to make presentations at an international conference in Philadelphia in October.  Senior Wes McMasters and Junior Jeff Sexton both made presentations at the Third International Edgar Allan Poe Conference.  Their fellow presenters included everyone from graduate students to tenured faculty from around the world.  Those invited to speak presented research they have done about the works of Poe, and then were invited to discuss their work with panels of other experts.  An invitation to present at the conference came only after each of the 120 speakers presented an abstract that was reviewed by a committee of scholars, who then decided who should present.  Penn State DuBois Professor of English and renowned Poe Expert Richard Kopley encouraged both Sexton and McMasters to submit their work.

"The experience was Awesome.  To be able to present my work, and not just be there, is more than I ever could have asked for," McMasters said.  The paper McMasters presented at the conference could be groundbreaking in the world of literature.  He is possibly the first person ever to write a biographical document on Morton McMichael, one of Poe's contemporaries. 

"I was on the Poe Connections Panel," McMasters explained.  "We picked out a figure connected to Edgar Allan Poe, and explained the connections."  McMasters found that while it is known that McMichael was a friend of Poe's, and may have had a large part in Poe's early publications, history has not recorded much additional information about him.  "He's the man without a biography.  No one has ever written anything on him," said McMasters.

McMasters set out to be the person who would write about McMichael.  He dug through archives at the Pennsylvania Historical Society in Philadelphia, conducting mostly primary research using documents nearly two centuries old.

"I found that he was very influential in the Philadelphia area," said McMasters.  "He was mayor, he was sheriff, he was a really influential figure at the time."

McMaster's work was well received, and it may lead to more work on the same topic.  He's considering following up his research and eventually publishing the first complete biography of Morton McMichael. 

Sexton researched and presented information on the influence Poe has had on the genre of Detective Fiction.  He explained, "Poe laid down the rules for Detective fiction in his three stories about detective Auguste Dupin.  They are the unbreakable standards we follow today." 

Sexton researched other writers who were inspired by Poe, and even outlined the story of one writer who tried to one-up Poe and failed.  That, Sexton said, is Argentinean writer, Jorge Borges.  "I talked about how Borges was deeply influenced by Poe and wrote the short story, Death and the Compass.  The story compares Borge's detective to Poe's Dupin, then another Sherlock Holmes inspired character is used to kill Dupin. The connection is ultimately a failed attempt to destroy the rules for the detective story that Poe established," he said. 

The two students say it was an honor, if not a bit overwhelming, to present their research at an international conference among seasoned scholars.  It could also be a glimpse into the future for McMasters and Sexton who both plan to attend graduate school and eventually teach in higher education.

"The experience itself was enlightening, and if I'm headed into an academic career, an event like this is what my life will hold, so it's nice to experience that," McMasters said.

Sexton said making the presentation was extraordinary, but having Kopley's encouragement was the first thing that struck him.  "I was truly honored.  Opportunities like this don't happen often.  When you have someone as well respected as Dr. Kopley saying that what you're doing is worth telling people about, that's really special."

"They both did great jobs at the conference," Kopley said. "I was impressed and proud."

DuBois - Penn State DuBois recently hosted a conference for professionals in the Powder Metal (PM) industry, which attracted more than two dozen industry representatives from three states.  Companies from throughout Pennsylvania and Ohio were represented at the conference, and some in attendance came from as far away as Illinois.  The event allowed for networking among those professionals, and gave them the opportunity to learn about the services Penn State DuBois can offer their businesses.

The day began with the Powder Metallurgy Equipment Association's (PMEA) Board of Directors meeting.  PMEA represents PM companies across the nation, and promotes research and education in the industry.

Following the meeting, Penn State DuBois faculty and staff presented a program, Technology-Based Economic Development; Building Partnerships Between Penn State DuBois and the Powder Metallurgy and Particulate Materials Industries. The program showcased the campus resources available to these industries that can help them be more successful.  Following discussions, tours of campus Engineering and Information Science and Technology labs were offered.

"The industry is already successful in this area, but we want to further that success by connecting the industry with the university," said Joe Polito, a manager with SMS Meer in Cranberry Township, PA.  Also a PMEA member and a Penn State DuBois alumnus, Polito was instrumental in bringing the conference to the campus.  "I want to see the university I graduated from work with this industry," he said. "I know there's so much the campus can offer.  There are a lot of resources here that could be utilized." 

Glen Rishel, a Penn State DuBois Research Technician, explained that much of the equipment in the campus engineering labs can be used by local PM companies free of charge.  to support product development.  This service is supported by the Powder Metals Initiative Grant and allows regional PM companies to have access to equipment and faculty expertise in the areas related to engineering.  This can benefit the companies who might not have certain machines at their business location. 

"We've actually had 10 different companies use our lab equipment this year," said Rishel.  "They use our machines for things like testing the strength and integrity of material, or analyzing material to see what it's composed of."

The composition of material can mean everything to a PM manufacturer.  Jason Gabler, the sales manger for Advantage Metal Powders in Ridgway said he's interested in using the campus scanning electron microscope for that purpose.  "I could definitely use the scanning equipment," he said.  "We get powders every now and then that we don't fully understand, and we don't know what's in the powder.  This can tell us what it's made of.

Gabler said different powder metals are used for different parts, and knowing what's in the powder is vital.  "Each element makes the powder's characteristics different, and it makes the part you're making act differently depending on what's in the powder," he said.

The conference goers also had the opportunity to see what the Penn State DuBois engineering programs are all about.  Associate Professor of Engineering Craig Stringer said the curriculum is focused on real-world needs.  "We are preparing our students with the tools they need today, tomorrow and five year's from now," said Stringer.  He said he's confident that graduates of the program will have all the skills they need for success the day they receive their diploma. 

"We really want to help our local industry," said Penn State DuBois Chancellor Anita McDonald.  "We want to showcase the resources available on campus to support the Powder Metal industry, and partner with more companies in this industry.  We offer our facilities and our students to help them solve real problems, and our students also benefit from that experience."  

DuBois – Three Penn State DuBois Information Science and Technology students have been recognized for their work in designing a website for a regional Competition.

Kim Hummel, Sharon Schatz, and Jim Burton developed and produced the B.I.G.* Competition website that attracted over 1500 visitors during the application phase of the Competition. North Central, Penn State DuBois and the Greater DuBois Chamber of Commerce sponsored the Competition.  Presenting the award is Sally Moran, Technology Transfer Coordinator at Penn State DuBois, who is standing in for John Weible, Business Development Coordinator, North Central PA Regional Planning and Development Commission.

The event, to be held at Gio's Convenience Store on Route 322, and near Interstate 80 in Woodland is designed to give anyone heading to the stadium a family friendly stop along the way.

Face painting, giveaways, a raffle and music will all be available. The Nittany Lion Mascot will also be on hand for photos.

Gio's will offer a discount on their nine-inch sub for anyone who gets their face painted. 

This event is free and open to everyone. 

Last year the Penn State Dubois THON Committee contributed more than $4,500 to the $7.4 million raised by for the 2009 THON. The committee raised their contributions through canning drives, a date auction, and the annual Rockathon, where students stay in a rocking chair for an extended period of time.

Money raised through THON is donated to the Four Diamonds Fund, who's mission is, "to conquer childhood cancer by assisting children treated at Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital and their families through superior care, comprehensive support, and innovative research," according to their mission statement.

More than 700 dancers stayed on their feet for 46 hours strait during THON 2009.

"We got these local businesses to come and show the students how they've taken responsibility for taking care of the environment," said student organizer Chris Kolp.  "Penn State is trying to take a greener approach, and this is a good way to promote that to students and show them how to go green here and at home."

Josh Brubaker, from the local Petco, showed students what his company does to promote the green movement.  He said, "We offer a lot of all natural products for pets, at we have a real commitment to sustainability."  That commitment, Brubaker explained, centers around the use of products that are free of artificial ingredients and chemicals. 

Wal-Mart was also among the businesses participating in the Green Fair.  Associates from the DuBois showed students some of the many 100% recycled products that Wal-Mart offers, and encouraged them to make "green" choices when shopping.  Sandy Schimizzi, the head of Wal-Mart's Personal Sustainability Program said she and other employees also volunteer in the community to support environmental conservation.  She explained, "We have helped to clean up parks and streams in DuBois and Fallscreek."

The Camp Out will end the canned food drive the HDFS Club plans to run during the first part of October. 

"We want to make sure families in our community have something to eat this winter," said HDFS Club member Brenda McGarvey. "This will be the perfect ending to our canned food drive."

The collected food items will be donated to food banks in DuBois and Brookville.

Anyone wishing to make a donation may drop by the Campout on campus on October 16 from 3:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m. and on October 17 from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. 

“We have a great panel of judges who bring tremendous experience in a wide range of areas and will be able to articulate different vantage points in the evaluation of the entries.” commented Weible.  “ The judges include George Angelo, Manufacturing Engineer at Metaldyne LLC; Sharon Drukenbrod, Director of Human Resources at Miller Welding and Machine Company; Karen Duffell, Vice-president of Proform Powdered Metals; Tim Smith, President of Continuous Metal Technology, Inc.; and Mike Yurkewicz, Project Engineer with the Plastics Technology Center in Erie.”

“The judges are familiar with the criteria for evaluating the entries and are ready to begin the adventure of reviewing the more than 35 entries submitted to the Competition.” indicated Moran.  “A judges’ meeting was convened on September 11 to review the judging criteria.  Terri Klein, an IT specialist from North Central, was on hand to review the scoring forms available, to the judges, on the B.I.G.* Competition website.  At the same meeting Corry Riley, Business Consultant from the Clarion SBDC, presented information about the October workshop to be held for all of the individuals who submitted entries for the Competition. 

The semifinalists will be identified from the applications submitted; semifinalists, utilizing the information from the October Pitch Then Plan™ workshop, will submit more detailed information about their idea by October 23.  Once again, the judges will employ evaluation criteria to determine the finalists who will make a presentation as the last part of the Competition.

The Competition will end with an Awards’ Dinner to be held at the DuBois Country Club on Thursday, November 19.

“The response was terrific and we are already thinking of ways to make next year’s Competition even better.” stated Weible.  “For now, the immediate focus is on identifying the semifinalists and helping them advance to the next phase of the Competition.”

DuBois – Two Penn State DuBois students who tragically died in recent incidents were honored and remembered by their fellow students, faculty and staff, and their families at a Candlelight Vigil held on campus Wednesday.

Jordan Andrulonis and Shane Horner were remembered as caring, outgoing members of the Penn State DuBois family.  Both students, who died on the same weekend, were honored by speakers at the ceremony who shared stories and memories about them. Those speakers also talked about dealing with the heartbreak.

"Jordan and Shane were members of our family and we feel a tremendous loss," said Chancellor Anita McDonald.  "I personally find it difficult to accept the deaths of Jordan and Shane.  It doesn't seem right or fair, but that's not our call."  McDonald also suggested positive ways to impact the community that Andrulonis and Horner would approve of.  "If we want to honor Jordan and Shane, we need to continue their work and embrace life with the same sense of purpose that they did.  Demonstrate our love of family at each opportunity.  Help others.  Volunteer time to take someone to the doctor; coach a children's sports team; help raise funds to benefit others," she said.

Student Life Coordinator Marly Doty spoke about the impact Horner and Andrulonis had on the campus.  "Both of these young men were known by many people on campus. This is a great loss to our Penn State DuBois family," she said. "These two young men had a lot of potential and showed enthusiasm in anything they were involved in." 

Brittany Charleson, president of the Student Government Association (SGA), said members of the campus community should never forget, but can move forward by supporting each other.

"Although we all may not be related, study the same major, or follow the same path, we are all part of the Penn State family.  As a family we all stick together in even the hardest times," Charleson said.  

Andrulonis, 22, of DuBois, was a mechanical engineering major and Dean's List student.  He was also a member of the Penn State DuBois wrestling team and active in intramural athletics. He drowned at Treasure Lake on Saturday, September 12. 

Horner, 18, of Brockway, was a freshman and First Year Senator in the SGA. He also volunteered with Service Above Self (SAS).  He was killed in a car crash on Sunday, September 13. 

The candlelight vigil in honor of these students was organized by SGA and the Christian Student Fellowship (CFS). 

The public is invited to attend and enjoy tailgate-style food, soft drinks and Penn State Creamery ice cream.  Members of the community will have the opportunity to meet athletes and coaches from Penn State DuBois athletic teams, and the Nittany Lion. 

It's a landmark year for athletics at Penn State DuBois, with the addition of two new programs.  Men's wrestling has been reestablished at the campus this year, and the newly established women's soccer program is in its first season. This tailgate event will kick off the new athletic season and celebrate the continued growth of campus athletic programs.

For more information, contact Autumn Weil at (814) 375-4775, or agw11@psu.edu

DuBois – Another victim of the recession, Mike Davies was laid off from his job as a press operator with Case Cutlery in Bradford in July.  He went to open interviews at Career Link offices, and searched the classifieds, and quickly learned just how tough the current job market is.  Then, a family member gave him a pamphlet describing the Telecommunications Technologies Certificate Program.  Davies saw that earning this certificate could open new doors in work that appeals to him.

"It's hands-on, and that's my thing," Davies said.  "I don't want to sit in a cubicle staring at a computer screen all day." 

So, Davies signed up for the 105 hour course at Penn State DuBois and set out on a new career path.  Though currently working to complete the course, he has already started applying for jobs in his new field.

"My ultimate goal is to get into fiber optic installation and repair, and this program will prepare me for that," he said. 

Those who earn the industry recognized certificate will, in fact, be qualified for jobs in some of the fastest growing fields in the country including telephone and computer networking, cable and satellite system operation and repair, and more.

Continuing Education Representative Jeannine Hanes explained the stability of the telecommunications field, even during the current state of the economy.  "The telecommunications field continues to grow," she said.  "Broadband technology is not only a key piece of the Federal economic stimulus package, but a necessity for rural Pennsylvania to be sustainable through these tough economic conditions." 

"The telecom industry has grown exponentially in recent years, and will continue to do so," said course instructor Bill Carlson.  "The industry needs more qualified workers because people want more information and more knowledge today," Carlson explained, noting the ever-growing use of the internet and social media.  "To get that knowledge to the people, we need more sophisticated cable systems," he said. 

Carlson teaches his students about the latest in cable and fiber optic technology with a hands-on approach, using Advanced Cable Trainers (ACT) kits.  They include various cables, connectors and components that students would see on the job in the real world. Students use real tools to work with the kits, simulating actual repair or installation of telecom systems.

"I like this.  It's a lot of fun and it's interesting," said student Tyler Shannon, of Clearfield, who also appreciates the hands-on lessons.  Shannon hopes to use the skills he learns here to help him become a successful entrepreneur.  "I have a background in electrical work," he said.  "I'm hoping to expand on those skills and eventually be my own electrical contractor." 

For more information, contact Jeannine Hanes at (814) 375-4859, or jhanes@psu.edu

Andrulonis, 22, of DuBois, drowned at Treasure Lake on Saturday, September 12.  He was a mechanical engineering major and Dean's List student.  He was also a member of the Penn State DuBois wrestling team and active in intramural athletics.

Horner, 18, of Brockway, was killed in a car crash on Sunday, September 13.  A freshman, Horner was a First Year Senator in the Student Government Association (SGA) and a volunteer with Service Above Self (SAS). 

The vigil in honor of these students has been organized by SGA and the Christian Student Fellowship (CFS).  Family and close friends of Shane Horner and Jordan Andrulonis are invited to attend.   

"Building the right résumé will significantly increase your chances of getting an interview," said Penn State DuBois Alumni and Development Specialist Autumn Weil.  "Once you get the interview, you'll have a chance to really show an employer how valuable you are”.

The free event is open to the public and ideal for recent graduates, veterans re-entering the job market, and those seeking new careers.  It is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 6, in room 209 of the DEF Building at Penn State DuBois.

Because space is limited, a reservation is required.  RSVP to Autumn Weil by calling (814) 375-4775 or by email at agw11@psu.edu

DuBois – A ceremony held at Penn State DuBois on Friday honored those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001, and gave people in attendance a chance to look back on the attacks of eight years ago.

Organized by the Penn State DuBois Office of Student Life, and Paul Sprague, a former Commander of the DuBois American Legion, the ceremony featured the DuBois Area Honor Guard, and selected readings by area first responders.  Sergeant Rod Fairman of the Sandy Township Police Department, and Anthony Suplizio, former DuBois City Fire Chief, both read poems honoring the emergency responders who sacrificed their own lives following the September 11 attacks.  Pastor David Bish, of the Tri-County Church of God, offered benediction. 

"We do this to remember those who sacrificed for our freedoms," Sprague said.  He noted that he was impressed with the young students on campus who turned out for the ceremony.  "Some of them were just in grade school when it happened, so it's nice to see these young people care enough to take this time to remember."

For 19 year old student and Army Reservist Derick Welsh, of Siegel, the attacks took place when he was just 11.  The memories for him, however, are still clear.  "I was scared," he said.  "It was definitely a sad day, but one that we need to remember.  We also need to remember the soldiers who face the consequences in battle after the attacks."

Adult student Cindy Kosek attended the observance with a special interest in honoring the men and women of the armed services.  Her own son has served four tours of duty overseas. 

"I'm proud that in spite of everything the United States has gone through, we're still strong," Kosek said.  "I'm grateful for everyone who has served to protect us in the past and for those who will serve in the future." 

This is the inaugural season for the newly established Women's Soccer program at Penn State DuBois.  Their first win came in their second game, following a 7-1 loss to Pitt-Greensburg in the season opener.

"It's great to get our first win as a women's soccer team," said Head Coach Rachael Schmitz.  "We are going to continue with the positive energy and keep on the upward swing."

Penn State DuBois took an early 2-0 lead Thursday.  Scoring for the Lady Lions was Amanda Malacarne, with two goals.  Lauren Laughner picked up an assist on the first.   Malacarne also scored the game winning overtime goal with 3:40 left to play. Jill Curley and Jacey Royer provided a single goal each.

Penn State DuBois Women's Soccer action continues this weekend with a home matchup against Penn College on Saturday at 4:00 p.m., and a road trip to Ursuline on Sunday.

All Penn State DuBois Women's Soccer home games are played at the Spider Lake Complex. 

DuBois – Roxanne Masisak, of DuBois, celebrates 25 years of service at Penn State DuBois this year.  The Administrative Support Assistant for the Office of Academic Affairs began working as a staff assistant in the campus library in 1984. 

Masisak also held the positions of Accounting Clerk in the Student Accounts Office and Staff Assistant in the Registrar’s Office.  

While working at the campus, Masisak became a Penn State DuBois student.  She earned her associate's degree in Business Administration, with distinction, in 1995.  

"She exemplifies what Penn State DuBois is all about," said Director of Academic Affairs Debra Straussfogel.  "She has been a student here, she is a dedicated employee, and she is truly devoted to helping faculty, staff and students."

"She adds so much to the office," said Chancellor Anita McDonald.  She also told Masisak, "In the six and a half years I've been here it's been a pleasure and honor for me to work with you.  I thank you for all of your work and congratulate you for your years of service."

Noting that she does not feel like a quarter century has passed since she started working at the campus, Masisak said, "I wouldn't have been her for 25 years if not for the people here who have enhanced both my personal and professional life.  I'm truly blessed." 

B.I.G.* (*Business Ideas Gone wild) Competition is open to teams, small businesses, or individuals over age 18 who reside in Cameron, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, McKean, or Potter county.  “Interest in the contest is huge.  The prizes are going to allow several people to have the opportunity to advance their ideas to true business concepts.  Even those who do not win prizes can use the services of the Tri-County Keystone Innovation Zone or the Office of Technology Transfer at Penn State DuBois to ‘move their ideas ahead’.” says John Weible, Business Development Coordinator for North Central PA Regional Planning and Development Commission and a sponsor of the Competition.

In conjunction with Sally Moran, the Coordinator of the Office of Technology Transfer at Penn State DuBois and Nancy Micks, President/CEO of the Greater DuBois Chamber of Commerce, John initiated the Competition on August 1.  The awards dinner, recognizing the winning entries, will be held Thursday, November 19.

Interest in the Competition has been growing across the area, as John, Sally and Nancy have taken the message about the Competition “on the road”.  They have been interviewed by various television and radio stations since the Competition began.  To learn more about the Competition, visit the website www.thebigcompetition.ncentral.com.  To hear one of the radio interviews involving John and Sally and their comments about the Competition and spurring economic development in the area, visit http://1490newsblog.blogspot.com/2009/08/business-ideas-gone-wild.html.

DuBois – The new academic year is underway, and Penn State DuBois welcomes 377 new incoming freshmen this fall.

"We have experienced a steady increase in our enrollment over the past three years," said Admissions Officer Melissa Duttry.  "We are excited to help students reach their academic goals and are thrilled to provide these educational opportunities to the folks in our region and beyond."

At the campus convocation, new students were welcomed by Chancellor Anita McDonald, who congratulated them on reaching a new milestone in life.  She also offered advice, and encouragement.

"This is a great time to be in College.  It’s also a very important time," McDonald said.  "We have so many challenges in our communities and in our world today.  We will need each and every one of you to help us address these issues throughout your careers."

Freshmen were introduced to faculty and staff members that they will get to know during their time at Penn State DuBois.  They also met experienced students who offered advice on a peer level.

"College is a time to find out who you really are," said Student Government Association President Brittany Charleson.  "Meet new people, get involved.  Only you can decide your future."

Penn State DuBois has in state student from 34 counties in Pennsylvania.  Other students come from as far away as New Hampshire, New York, Texas and even China. 

This year’s incoming freshmen are now part of approximately 84,000 Penn State students, university-wide.  

For more photos, visit the News Photo Gallery.

DuBois – As she waits for a meeting to begin, Angela Hu demonstrates a fluency in  English and exemplary text messaging skills that paint a picture of the typical American teenager.  But, in reality, Hu had only been in the United States for three days when she sat down to talk about the journey that lies ahead of her as an international student at Penn State DuBois.   Her home in Beijing, China is a world away from the campus office she now sits in with International Student Services Coordinator Tharren Thompson.

"It's so different here, Beijing is so big," Hu notes, as she describes the towering buildings and bustle of the city.  The transition to a more rural landscape, however, is one the 18 year old can appreciate.  "Everything is so beautiful here.  Everywhere you look it's like a park," she says.  "I love everything here, and I like that the campus is not as big as University Park."

Hu says the people who have welcomed her here also run at a different pace.  "In Beijing everyone is in a hurry.  They're too busy to say hi," she says.  "People are so friendly here, and everyone stops to greet you." 

Though life in DuBois will mean some adjustments, Hu says it is well worth it to achieve her goal of obtaining a Penn State degree.  That, she says, is exactly what brought her to the states.  While trying to pick which university she wanted to attend, Hu attended a Penn State admissions fair held in Beijing.  She talked to students there, who immediately impressed her with their personal testimonies.  "They were so proud of being a Penn State student, and I knew then that I wanted to be a part of that."

Students like Hu are, in fact, becoming a larger part of the student population at Penn State DuBois, and Penn State in general.  Thompson says the resulting diversity will benefit all students by introducing them to new cultures.  "The campus has a common vision for international programs," Thompson says.  "It's been great to see one of the long-term goals of the campus start to be realized." 

As more international students enroll here, Thompson will make sure the transition to life in DuBois is an easy one.  Since Hu touched down in America, Thompson has picked her up at the airport, and helped her find housing and start a bank account.  Then, he took her to the grocery store and helped her get the cell phone she was texting on before this meeting began.  

In the photo, International Student Services Coordinator Tharren Thompson reviews enrollment forms with Angela Hu.

The B. I. G.* Competition is up and running, and organizers say it has created quite a buzz.

"We have heard great things about the website.  The design really fits with our region and the site itself is user friendly," says John Weible, Business Development Coordinator, North Central PA Regional Planning and Development Commission.  "You can go to the site and complete the application process in a short time.”

The B. I. G.* (*Business Ideas Gone wild) Competition is open to individuals, teams or small businesses in Cameron, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, McKean or Potter counties.  “We want people with unique and innovative ideas to be recognized and, if they are a prize winner, to receive the help they need to take the idea to the next level on the way to developing a business.  The prizes include not only cash but also market research support through the Ben Franklin Transformation Group, brand identity through Vision Creative Group, engineering services through the Penn State DuBois Innovation Lab and much more.  The winners will be well on their way to making their ideas ‘reality’.” indicates Weible.

Co-sponsors of the Competition, the Office for Technology Transfer at Penn State DuBois and the Greater DuBois Chamber of Commerce representatives see the Competition as a way to provide support needed by local entrepreneurs to be successful in the marketplace.

Sally Moran, Technology Transfer Coordinator at Penn State DuBois, comments, “It’s a great way to begin to showcase the innovative thinking in the area, create a culture of entrepreneurship and advance the ideas to the point that they become actual area businesses.”  Nancy Micks, President/CEO of the Greater DuBois Chamber of Commerce,  sees it as “… a great way to bolster the economic development of the area through the nurturance of local ingenuity and creativity.”

The B.I.G.* Competition entry period began August 1; closing date for the receipt of all entries is midnight, Monday, September 14.  Application instructions and dates are on the website www.thebigcompetition.ncentral.com.  All application materials must be submitted electronically.  Individuals or teams wanting assistance with the submission forms should contact Weible at jweible@ncentral.com or 814-371-1506 or Moran at sallymoran@psu.edu or 814-375-4803.

Weible, Moran and Micks are enthusiastic about the Competition and plan to have it become a yearly event to showcase the innovation of the region.

Elizabeth Evans will serve as an Assistant Professor of English.  Evans received her doctorate in English at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She has taught a range of composition and literature courses both at UW-Madison and at Wake Forest University. Her research and teaching interests include 19th and 20th century British literature, especially modernism; women's and gender studies; cultural geography and spatial theory; and postcolonial literature and theory.

Evelyn Wamboye has accepted an Assistant Professor of Economics position.  Originally from Kenya, Wamboye most recently lived in Menomonie, Wisconsin, where she taught at the University of Wisconsin.  She also gained teaching experience at the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee and the Milwaukee Area Technical College.  At Penn State DuBois she'll teach Statistics and Microeconomic Analysis and Policy. 

Elizabeth Evans, Assistant Professor of English

 
Evelyn Wamboye, Assistant Professor of Economics

"The purpose of this is to help foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in the region," said Penn State DuBois Technology Transfer Coordinator, Sally Moran. Moran also said the competition is open to individuals, teams and small businesses that reside in or are based in North Central Pennsylvania, including the counties of Cameron, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, McKean and Potter.

Additionally, there are few limits on the scope of ideas that will be considered.  "Ideas may be for new products, new services, new business processes or may be a dramatic improvement in things that already exist," Moran explained.

Ideas, however, must comply with basic criteria.  They must be original, and conceived by the applicant or team.  They must do something useful.  They must have marketable appeal, and they must be something that could eventually lead to sales, profit and employment.

Applications for the competition must be submitted online and include a description of the product, service or process idea and what it does, suggestions for manufacturing or implementation and a summary of why it should win.

The grand prize winner will receive $1,000 in cash, plus up to $10,000 in services.  Services include research and development, and engineering support from the Penn State DuBois Innovation Lab, plus marketing and sales research, and more.  Prizes for second place, as well as two honorable mentions will also be awarded.  

Visit www.thebigcompetition.ncentral.com to complete an application.  Applications must be submitted by midnight, September 14. 

For more information, contact: 

John Weible, Business Development Coordinator, North Central PA Regional Planning and Development Commission

(814) 371-1506

jweible@ncentral.com

Sally Moran

(814) 375-4803

sallymoran@psu.edu

The tailgate and football game package includes a ticket to the Penn State vs. Temple game on September 19, breakfast, a boxed lunch, non-alcoholic beverages plus transportation to and from the game.  The entire package costs just $100 per person.  Plus, each person will have a chance to win a Penn State stadium blanket and receive a bag of Penn State fan novelty items including buttons, magnets, pom-poms, a 2009-10 football schedule, and more. 

The bus leaves Penn State DuBois at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 19.  It will stop at the Clearfield Wal-Mart on the way to Beaver Stadium.  Fans can catch the bus at either location. 

For additional information, or to purchase the event package, contact Autumn Weil at (814) 375-4775, or agw11@psu.edu

DuBois - For the past six weeks, Penn State DuBois students Kim Hummel, Sharon Schatz, and Jim Burton have applied their education in Information Sciences and Technology (IST) to the development of a website for a regional business idea competition which will begin August 1.  Recommended for the experience by the Coordinator of the IST program, Jason Long, the three students met regularly with the marketing department at Penn State DuBois to develop the website.

The launch of the website is also scheduled for August 1, with the start of the competition.  “We are excited about how the website has taken shape and know that it will be a great asset in publicizing the B.I.G.* Competition.” says Kim Hummel, one of the website developers.   The B.I.G.*, or *Business Ideas Gone wild, Competition is open to individuals or teams in the six county area including,: Cameron, Clearfield, Elk, Jefferson, McKean, and Potter.  The Competition encourages people with ideas for products, services or processes to enter their ideas and compete for over $15,000 in prizes to be awarded in November, 2009.  The B.I.G.* Competition seeks entries that are unique and innovative.  The ideas may be for new products, new services, new business processes, or a dramatic improvement in some things that already exist.

Hummel, a current resident of Philipsburg, who would like to develop websites as part of her career, comments, “We are in the final stages of adding the content to several of the sections of the website.  The final testing of everything we have done will be completed in the next ten days.”  According to Kersey resident Sharon Schatz, another of the website developers, “We have had the chance to utilize a great number of skills, both technical and creative, as we have put this project together.  It’s fun to use the IST skills we have learned and see the website emerge.”

“We will add new information to the website over the next month or so.  People could visit every week and see something different,” adds Jim Burton, Kersey resident and the third student involved in the project.
The competition is open to everyone.  Those who have an idea for a business or service and have what the market would be for the product or service are encouraged to enter.  Information on the contest, and instructions on how to enter can be found at www.thebigcompetiton.ncentral.com beginning August 1.

DuBois — Pennsylvania ranks fourth in its population of residents 85-years-old and older — a population projected to increase by 52 percent by 2020. Some of these residents will need help and will move into one of the state’s 1,500 licensed personal care homes and assisted living facilities, where more than 50,000 elderly and disabled residents currently reside. To ensure their well-being, the Department of Public Welfare (DPW), which inspects and licenses these facilities, has partnered with higher education institutions and other agencies to educate and train personal care home administrators and staff. Penn State Beaver has offered the 100-hour Personal Care Home Administrator Training program since 2006. This fall, the program is being expanded to Penn State DuBois.

“The training is standardized, consistent and rigorous,” said Marian Vendemia, Penn State Beaver director of Continuing Education. “It is designed to ensure residents of these facilities have a good quality of life. This is a critical societal issue that Penn State is ideally suited to help address through its statewide campus system.”

DPW invited Penn State Beaver to be a training provider shortly after new training regulations went into effect. Vendemia rounded up experts in health care and the law and offered the first program in spring 2006. Since then, 272 personal care home administrators and other health care professionals have completed the training.

This fall, Penn State DuBois will offer the program to help more than 20 personal care and long-term care facilities in its region attend training close to home, said Jeannine Hanes, Penn State DuBois continuing education representative. “This program fits in well with our other health care programs. We work closely with our long-term care facilities to assess their education and training needs and arrange for appropriate programs,” Hanes said.

According to Kimberly C. Black, director of Training for DPW’s Adult Residential Licensing program, “Personal care homes serve vulnerable adults that require personal care services. Without appropriate training, personal care home administrators cannot keep up with current trends and issues related to the individuals they serve.” DWP increased training requirements for personal care home administrators and staff in 2005. Black said, “Training improves the knowledge base of the individual, which improves services provided to residents.”

Personal Care Home Administrator Training covers 19 topics ranging from resident rights to laws and regulations, fire prevention and emergency preparedness, and budgeting issues. To become an administrator, individuals must complete the training and pass a test developed for DPW by a Penn State team. Led by Matt Kaplan, Ph.D., associate professor of intergenerational programs and aging, Penn State Extension and College of Health and Human Development faculty and staff created the online test.

“By passing a competency-based test that reflects what they have learned, administrators are better-prepared to ensure the quality of care for residents. It’s all about the quality of life of the resident,” said Kaplan, adding, “This is the most impactful work I’ve ever done.”

Personal care homes and assisted living facilities provide shelter, meals, supervision and assistance with personal care tasks for people who need assistance, but do not require nursing home or medical care.

George Knox, who with his sister Nancy Simmons, an RN, has owned and operated Trinity Oaks Care Centers in Ellwood City and Beaver, Pa., since 1979, uses Penn State Beaver for all training for himself and his staff of 32. “The programs are cogent, appropriate and timely,” Knox said. “Penn State Beaver offers programs that are extremely appropriate for what we do.” After a recent fire prevention program, Knox incorporated new fire safety measures in his facilities.

For more information about this training program, contact: Penn State Beaver Continuing Education (CE), 724-773-3700, br-continuinged@psu.edu; and Penn State DuBois CE, 814-375-4715, duboisce@psu.edu.

Contacts:
Deborah A. Benedetti, Penn State Outreach, 814-238-4895, dab12@outreach.psu.edu
Dave Aneckstein, Penn State Outreach, 814-865-7600, dxa141@outreach.psu.edu

Gill, who has an unending interest in cutting-edge teaching tactics, spoke about the benefits of using high-tech resources in teaching language.  Her three hour workshop was titled Podcasting and Video Blogging in the Language Classroom. 

"In the workshop, I discussed the creation and use of podcasts and video blogging in basic language courses to reinforce all five language skills and how these technologies can be seamlessly intertwined into a language curriculum," Gill said, noting that she required the participants to create their own podcast or video blogs so that they could see their value first-hand.

In a world where technology is rapidly becoming a part of almost everything we do, Gill said these technological teaching strategies are a must.  They also fit the mission of the AATSP, which, according to their website is to "promote the study and teaching of Hispanic, Luso-Brazilian, and other related languages, literatures, and cultures at all educational levels. Through an exchange of pedagogical and scholarly information, the AATSP encourages heritage and second-language study and supports projects to that end.
Our mission includes collaboration with business, industry, governmental agencies, and other organizations and individuals for the purpose of enhancing public awareness of the importance of Hispanic and Luso-Brazilian languages and cultures. In line with that mission, we have been active leaders in the development of national standards for the learning of Spanish and Portuguese and are working closely with state education. departments and university departments to support the adoption of these K-16 standards."

DuBois – George Angelo of DuBois thought bicycling was a real pain.  Though he enjoyed cycling, his bike seat was the source of major discomfort during and after his rides.

"I would be sore after a ride, just like a lot of other people," Angelo said.  While talking to friends and fellow riders, he realized just how many other people had the same complaints.  A large number of cyclists he spoke with had already spent hundreds of dollars on bicycle seats, some of which were still not comfortable.  Angelo saw that a completely new and innovative redesign of the conventional bicycle seat was something someone had to tackle. He decided that someone was him.

"I went into the garage and started working on different ideas and came up with a concept," he remembered.  "I wanted to get rid of the seat horn that goes between the legs, like some of the models available; but it needed to move with the rider's anatomy." 

What Angelo came up with is what he calls the Angel Wings Bicycle Seat.  He did, in fact, get rid of the seat horn.  Actually, a full 2 ½ inch gap runs between two pads, leaving the center open for full ventilation.  The rider sits with the pads under the gluteus maximus, with pressure distributed evenly and over a wider area than the conventional saddle. But, that's not all.  The seat pads also move as the rider pedals.  As the legs move up and down, so do the seat pads.  Angelo said this allows the torso to remain strait, rather than twisting during pedaling, allowing for more natural movement.  "A lot of two pad seats are out there," he said.  "But they don't move properly, and you're fighting nature.  Your torso should be still while your legs move.  It lets your body move the way it should, and the end result is no pain and more comfort."   

Riders who tried Angelo's seat said it was comfortable.  However, even with positive feedback and endorsements, he could not find a way to successfully market his idea.  He secured a patent on the Angel Wings seat in 2003, but his work stalled after that. 

"I called cycling companies and physical therapapists who focus on bicycling, but nothing worked out," Angelo said.  "I got tired.  Trying to raise a family, have a job and market this idea was difficult." 

Then, Angelo recently ran a Google search for "innovation in DuBois".  The results led him to Penn State DuBois Technology Transfer Coordinator Sally Moran, who specializes in helping business and individuals find the resources they need to be successful.

"Now Sally is helping me get in touch with the right people," Angelo said. 

Moran helped Angelo gain exposure for his invention that led to his recognition on the Planet Eureka Top 100 Innovations List.  Planet Eureka, an international marketplace that helps inventors connect with companies, picked this innovation as one of the top five inventions in its category. 

"As a result of this recognition, George's product will stand out even more in the innovation marketplace, and hopefully catch the eye of potential partners to help with manufacturing, research and development, and sales," Moran said. 

Moran has also connected Angelo with other people at Penn State who might be interested in his seat.  Plans are now underway to test prototypes of the seat on exercise bikes in university fitness labs.  Riders who use the bikes outfitted with the Angel Wings seats would then be surveyed about their experience using it.  Angelo said the seat may also have some uses in the realm of Physical Therapy, and tests at Penn State could help to define those uses. 

Angelo said he's excited to move forward on his project, and thankful for the resources with Technology Transfer at Penn State DuBois that made it possible.  "I had a patent for so long and could make nothing happen with this.  Now I'm working with Penn State and things are happening," he said.

As part of their Kids in College experience, this assembly of elementary age students got real roping lessons from a real cowboy.  Looking the part in his Stetson hat, cowboy boots and Wranglers held up by a large gleaming buckle, Hepburn offered the wisdom gained from years spent with a rope in his hands.

"Swing it above your head three times, then throw it," he said.  "Point your finger right where you want the rope to go," he instructed as the students attempted to lasso a plastic bull's head. 

Hepburn lives in Penfield, Clearfield County, and is a Wildlife Technology Student at Penn State DuBois.  However, his life began 1,500 miles away in Brady, Texas where he was born and raised on a cattle ranch.  He said his father was originally from DuBois and relocated to Texas before he was born.  Then, his father moved the family back when Hepburn was in high school.  As evidenced by his skills with a rope and his Texan drawl, though, the 20 year old still has a lot of the Lone Star State left in him. 

"I started roping when I was five or six and I've been at it ever since," Hepburn explained.  "I always wanted to learn how to do it.  This old cowboy that was a friend of my mom's taught me how.  He bought me a rope and I started roping everything in sight." 

Hepburn also remains close to his roots by working as a hand at Dan Rawling's Quarter Horses in Treasure Lake, where they offer horseback riding and riding lessons. 

The opportunity to have a Penn State DuBois student offer special skills to enhance summer programs was not lost on the children who participated in Kids in College.  "Its fun roping.  I really like being in Kids in College," said six year old Madison Gill of Brookville.   

Hepburn said becoming proficient with a rope takes years of practice, but he enjoyed seeing that some of the children he coached show potential.  "This was fun, and I'm really impressed with some of them," he said.

 ^{Student Chett Hepburn coaches a group of children on lasso techniques during Kids in College.}

"We've joined Robin Hood's Merry Men and trained to be Pony express riders this week," said instructor Marge Pendzick, who explained that the recognizable characters keep kids interested in the lessons, which also focus on accurate history.  "We looked at pictures of real 13^th century castles, and they can see that history was no Cinderella story," Pendzick said.  "But it really gives them a grasp on historical people and places they've heard about while having fun doing it."

The children have also stormed a castle, made swords and costumes, and walked through an ancient Roman town.  The young time travelers even stopped by to help the Wright Brothers build their flying machine. 

More than 700 children registered for this year's Kid's in College classes. For more information, contact Sueann Doran at 814-375-4716.

DuBois - Penn State DuBois Wildlife Technology Professor Charles Schaadt has always been a good steward for the environment.  Now, Schaadt will take his passion for environmental conservation to the national level.  The National Audubon Society recently invited Schaadt to Washington DC to be trained as a lobbyist for public land issues in Alaska. 

According to Audubon's website, their mission is "to conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit of humanity and the earth's biological diversity."  Schaadt's experience and knowledge fit into that mission very well.  He has spent years researching the reintroduction of ospreys, a fish eating bird of prey, into their natural environment.  He also actively researches eagles, hawks and migratory songbirds.  He has conducted extensive research in Alaska in the past, which is especially relevant to his new mission as a lobbyist. 

Schaadt wasted no time while at the nation's capitol, and began to appeal to lawmakers immediately.  "After three days of training, I met with Senators Casey and Specter and our local representative, Glenn Thompson," he said.  "We discussed upcoming legislation on land and wildlife issues and oil drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, the Tongass National Forest, the National Petroleum Reserve and elsewhere in Alaska."

DuBois – Kids in College (KIC) and the Art, Science and Technology Institute (AST) at Penn State DuBois are in full swing, and this year the programs are literally providing building blocks for future education.  Robotics with Lego and the Motorized Lego Lab are among the week-long courses offered by the award-winning educational summer youth program this year.  The course gives youngsters an early introduction to the fields of physics and engineering.

"The Lego courses are really popular," said KIC Coordinator, Suanne Doran, noting that varying levels of the courses are offered for different age groups.  "It's the perfect program.  The kids are building elaborate things and learning the basics of engineering, but using a toy and having fun while they're doing it." 

For grades two through four students are introduced to simple machines.  Levers, pulleys and incline planes are covered with the Lego kits.  According to student Austin Moore, of Brockway, the blocks and other Lego gadgets make learning fun.  "I like it.  I like learning about science and machines," he said.

For kids in grades five and six, the Robotics with Lego course gets their creative juices flowing.  They construct robots and machines to navigate obstacle courses, dance to music and perform simple tasks while learning problem solving skills and gaining experience in the field of robotics engineering.  Penn State DuBois Engineering Professor Craig Stringer instructs the KIC robotics course, and is excited about this method of reaching youth.  He said, "It's a fun way to learn math and science.  Some of these kids have already gone home and asked their parents to buy these Lego sets for them.  My goal is to get everyone of them to ask for these for Christmas, and then you know you're reaching them and getting them interested in engineering." 

More than 50 additional courses are offered through KIC and AST this summer, including another LEGO Robotics class for middle school students and others that include topics such as space, pets, dinosaurs, theatre, jewelry making, sports, and more.

Another session starts the week of June 22, with more sessions to come in July.  More than 700 children are already registered for this year's classes. For more information, contact Sueann Doran at 814-375-4716.  Registration information and a full list of courses is also available on the web at www.dubois.psu.edu/youth

Located in the Multi Purpose Building, PTA students use the lab to complete projects and practice physical therapy techniques.   The renovation will allow for these activities to continue, plus provide a state of the art instructional space.

New high-tech audio and visual instructional equipment will be the center piece for the new lab.  A projector, smart board and new computer equipment will all be installed.  This is in addition to a complete face-lift including new furniture, lighting, air conditioning, and window treatments.

"The PTA teaching lab will provide an instructional environment that is conducive to new learning strategies that include interactive technologies in a collaborative setting," said Instructional Designer Robin Gill, who helped secure the funds for the project. "Working together as a group, having access to technologies with which you can interact, and the ability to test student learning in unique ways are crucial to preparing students with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful," she said.

Physical Therapy Instructor Stephanie Russell adds, "The technological changes will help us advance our teaching with new methods of instruction."   

Students in 12 different courses will have use of the new facility. 

OT students are required to complete eight weeks of fieldwork as part of the curriculum.  Demotte, who is completing hers at Christ the King Manor Assisted Living Home in DuBois says she wouldn't have it any other way. "The fieldwork experience brings everything I've learned in the classroom to life," she says. "You spend so much time in class packing all this information into your brain and the fieldwork experience brings it all to the surface again.  I'm constantly amazed by this."

Demotte currently works with geriatric residents with various diagnosis such as hip fractures, Parkinson's, Myasthenia Gravis, Alzheimer's, COPD, and heart related issues.  She is responsible for helping those residents adapt to their condition and perform activities of daily living to the best of their ability. Actions such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and hygiene are covered. "I work with them so that they may perform these activities independently or at the highest level of functioning that can be achieved," Demotte explains. "Goals for the resident are set upon their initial evaluation, and these are the goals that I address when working with the resident. The residents come down to the OT/PT gym area for further work on these goals.  During these sessions, we try to do activities that simulate tasks that are performed at home or on a daily basis with close attention paid to factors such as strength, endurance, balance, safety, work simplification, and energy conservation."

Demotte is also responsible for educating the residents on the use of adaptive and assistive equipment such as long-handled reachers, sponges, and shoe horns.

Though she plans to one day work with children, Demotte says she learns important lessons at the assisted living home every day. "The experience of working with actual clients and watching them make progress is truly rewarding," she said. "The fieldwork experience truly offers us an invaluable learning experience."

"This examination is required at the end of the student’s OT education and certifies them nationally to practice as an OTA," said LuAnn Demi, instructor and coordinator of the OTA Program.  "The national average on the exam is around 80 percent, so we are very proud and happy to report that our students far exceeded the national average."

According to the NBOCOT, the test evaluates the OTA's ability to formulate treatment plans to meet the needs of specific clients according to their physical conditions and occupational needs.  They are also tested on their ability to gather information on the client's needs and priorities in addition to the evaluation of their professional standards and quality in practice. 

The NBOCOT website explains their mission, saying, "NBCOT serves the public interest by developing, administering, and continually reviewing a certification process that reflects current standards of competent practice in occupational therapy. We also work with state regulatory authorities, providing information on credentials, professional conduct, and regulatory and certification renewal issues."

DuBois - Honors students at Penn State DuBois took their spring trip, in May, to Monticello, near Charlottesville, Virginia.  The trip involved a day and night in Washington, DC, a day at Monticello with a stop at the University of Virginia to see the old campus designed by Thomas Jefferson, and then a night and hike the following day in Shenandoah National Park.  The group was led by Honors Coordinator James May and Librarian Karen Fuller.  Students on the trip included Leah Crosley of Brockport, Rebecca Edwards of Glen Campbell, Andrea Graham of Woodland, Heather Humbert of Beaver County, and Robert Reigel of James City. 

Students examined the displays at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, particularly of marine life, minerals, and fossils. For Crosley, who has an interest in geology, the mineralogical exhibitions of unbelievably shaped and colored crystals were worth the time on the road.  Some students then toured the National Gallery of Art, the Air and Space Museum, and the Museum of American History. 
 
All found fascinating the tour of Monticello and its grounds, where Jefferson’s gardens, vineyard, and orchards are still maintained.  Although everyone is familiar with Monticello’s main design from the American nickel, there is much to learn at the home about Jefferson’s ingenuity and architectural principles and about life on his eighteenth-century plantation.

"Most striking is how Jefferson’s design combined the practical with the beautiful," May said.  "The guides explain how the hillside had been contoured, the interior spaces fully utilized, the layout adapted to heating and water-shortage problems. 

"As a graduate of the wildlife program, I absolutely loved the zoo and Shenandoah National Park," Graham said. "But I also really enjoyed Monticello, which is a place I probably never would have visited on my own."

The group toured Jefferson’s “Academic Village” designed for the University of Virginia, whose founding Jefferson credited on his tombstone as one of his three main achievements.  The original campus is still in use.  It has a large building, “the Rotunda,” formerly the library and main lecture hall at one end, below which runs a lawn, or mall, flanked by long rows of student apartments, broken repeatedly with two-story sections that held supervising faculty’s families, dining halls, and classrooms.

Professor May remarked that this was one of the most successful trips the campus has offered honors students since they began in 1985, “in large part because all the students were mature, considerate, and thoughtful.  They kept up from the start a stimulating series of conversations during the long drives and over meals, not just about what the group was seeing but also about environmental and educational issues and problems.”

DuBois –Wildlife Technology Professor Charles Schaadt has been named the DuBois Education Foundation (DEF) Educator of the Year.  Each year the DEF presents the award to a Penn State DuBois faculty member who has made a difference in the lives of students. 

During the award presentation, DEF President Ed Nasuti said, "Dr. Schaadt was nominated by his students who spoke to his outstanding enthusiasm for wildlife and the environment, and his exceptional ability to involve students in discussions and field activities."

One of the students who nominated Schaadt, Melinda Marconi, stated, "Dr. Schaadt is always ready to start his class with attention grabbing information, be it a related comic, current news article, or other happenings in the world. Students are always encouraged to ask questions and comment on the topics covered."  Marconi also explained the individual impact Schaadt has had on her life.  "He has inspired me personally to achieve my goals and explore ones I’d never considered, and I know others have benefitted from his advice as well."

"This really means so much," Schaadt said upon receiving the award.  "Since this award comes directly from the students it is especially appreciated and I am truly honored they took the initiative and the time and effort to make it possible.  I thank them all."

In addition to teaching, Schaadt also conducts research on the reintroduction of ospreys, a fish eating bird of prey, into their natural environment.  He also actively researches eagles, hawks and migratory songbirds.  He organizes Earth Day activities on campus, and is the advisor for the campus Eco Club. 

McDonald's comments echoed the goal of Math Options; to keep young women interested in mathematics by showing them the opportunities and satisfaction that they can realize through its use.  The girls spent the day using math to determine things like how many bears a parcel of forest habitat can support, and calculating the deer population in a given area.   One exercise had them disassembling computers, and another applied mathematics to fitness activities.  Penn State DuBois faculty and staff members, as well as volunteers from the community served as instructors for the lessons.  The instructors were women who work in a variety of professions that deal with mathematics on a regular basis.  “We try to get them interested in the careers so they realize that if they stick with math, it could lead to a great career,” said Senior Instructor in Education, Dr. Pamela Hufnagel.  “These are often careers the kids might not know about.” 

The program is aimed at this specific demographic for a reason. “Seventh grade is a critical age when girls start to loose interest in Math,” Hufnagel said.  “Programs like this have been proven to help hold that interest.”

The effectiveness the program has led to a growing interest among school administrators in the area.  This year, 206 seventh grade girls from 16 schools participated in the program.

DuBois – Nearly 100 degrees were awarded during the commencement ceremonies at Penn State DuBois held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday in the campus gymnasium.  The degrees awarded included master's, bachelor's and associate's degrees.  Chancellor Anita McDonald presided over the ceremony and conferred degrees. Senior Instructor in Wildlife Technology Joseph Hummer served as Campus Marshall, and Director of Academic Affairs Debra Straussfogel presented academic awards.  

Michael S. Singer M.D., Ph.D. was the commencement speaker.  He is a licensed physician and a Senior Translational Medical Expert with Novartis Biomedical Institutes in Massachusetts.  He is also an Associate Medical Director with Boston Scientific Corporation, and the Chief Scientific Officer with Health Honors Corporation.  Singer attended both DuBois Area High School and Penn State DuBois before receiving his education in Biology and Neuroscience at Yale.  He completed Courses at Penn State DuBois from 1989 through 1991 while still in high school, long before current dual enrollment programs were introduced.  It was during this time that he also received the Rotary International District Scholarship and the Rotary International Youth Leadership Scholarship. 

In his commencement address, Singer told graduates that the key to success is open mindedness and the ability to recognize opportunity.  "You have to be open to new ideas and people of all kinds," he said.  "You see that kind of openness at a university, but in the outside world you don't see it as much.  You need to learn to cultivate that kind of openness in your life."

Singer explained that great success can come to those willing to consider new ideas, no matter what their field or interests.  "Innovation is everywhere, not just in science and technology," he said.  Using a real world example, Singer noted the current style of ketchup bottles that are now designed to stand on the lid, or upside-down, so that that it's easier to get the ketchup out.  He asked, "How many people used to stand the old ketchup bottles upside down anyway?  How many people actually came up with that idea long before a company put it to use?"   

The simple ketchup bottle, Singer explained, is the kind of straightforward, everyday life innovation that anyone is capable of if they have the courage to develop their ideas.  "People censor themselves," he said.  "They come up with an idea, but are afraid to follow through with it.  You need to follow through and expand upon those ideas."

 
^{Faculty Marshall Joe Hummer charts the course of the processional with Student Marshall Shannon Kassab.}

 
^{Chancellor Dr. Anita McDonald and Commencement Speaker Dr. Michael Singer.}

DuBois – Chuck Dietz of DuBois has been recognized for 25 years of service at Penn State DuBois.  As a maintenance mechanic, Dietz helps to keep campus operations running smoothly.  He maintains electrical, plumbing, communications and alarm systems.  His other duties include landscaping, snow removal and building maintenance.  Dietz is also an alumnus of Penn State DuBois, having earned his Associate in Business Degree at the campus in 1978.  

Following university tradition, Dietz was presented with a 25 Year Chair, a watch, and a plaque commemorating his years of service.  Upon making the presentation, Chancellor Anita McDonald said, "Chuck has contributed a great deal to this campus beyond his role in the Technical Services department.  He is helpful to our students and I particularly enjoy talking with him about the campus history.  In fact, I have asked him to serve on the 75^th Anniversary Committee as we plan our celebration for 2010." 

Dietz, who started working at Penn State DuBois in 1984, is also the staff representative on the Executive Steering Committee.  Additionally, he serves on the Campus Space Committee and the Swift Building Renovation Committee.  His commitment to the campus has also been acknowledged by the Student Government Association, which presented Dietz with the Lion's Pride Award in 2008.  He also received the Outstanding Technical Service Staff Award in 2005. 

After 25 years, Dietz still enjoys his days at Penn State DuBois as much as he ever has.  "The thing I like best about working here at the campus is the friendly atmosphere and seeing new students arrive each year," he said.

Dietz has two sons who are both students at Penn State DuBois.  Shane, 22, majors in Human Development and Family Studies.  Timothy, 19, is an Information Science and Technology major. 

Last year KIC was recognized as one of the Best Summer Kids’ Programs at Universities and Four-year Colleges by LERN, an international association of lifelong learning which offers information and resources to providers of lifelong learning programs. LERN recognized the KIC program at Penn State DuBois in its July/August 2008 publication.  This year, organizers say they've built upon their previous success and have made the program even better. 

“We have brought back the best of the programs from previous summers and added new ones suggested by past participants and their parents," said Sueann Doran, Youth Program Coordinator for Kids in College. "Fun with Widgets, for example, for four, five, and six year olds will involve children with hands-on projects to help them understand simple machines.  Virtual capabilities will enable grade 2-6 aged students to explore the Smithsonian Art Museum, without ever leaving DuBois, in A Day at the Smithsonian."  She said programs are designed for a specific age group and include experiences that children in that age group will enjoy.

According to Doran, single and multiple-day sports camps are also available.  Tennis, basketball, wrestling, volleyball, and soccer sports camps are offered.

Students in middle and high school can also enjoy class offerings through the Art, Science and Technology Institute of Penn State DuBois.  Among the topics for these courses are scrapbooking, cartooning and drawing, jewelry making, theatre arts, robotics with LEGO®, videogame development, exploration of bacteria, biofilms, the immune system, and theme park engineering. 

Space is limited. Questions about any of the Kids in College courses, including fees and course availability, can be answered by calling Sueann Doran at 814-375-4716. Participants registering before June 1 will receive a free t-shirt.  Registration information and a full list of courses is also available on the website at www.dubois.psu.edu/ce/youth/.

DuBois – Occupational Therapy (OT) students at Penn State DuBois already pursue a career that is about helping people.  The training they receive in the OT curriculum will prepare them for administering therapy to people who have been injured, or suffer from debilitating illnesses.  To take it a step further, OT students recently made a donation to another organization that is built on helping others.

Throughout the month of April Students gathered adaptive equipment to donate to the Clearfield County Society for Handicapped/Disabled Citizens (CCSHDC).  The equipment included hospital beds, walkers, wheelchairs, bath tub benches, portable toilets, wheelchairs and crutches.

"They collect all kinds of equipment, clean it up, and donate it to any individual who has need for it," said OT instructor LuAnn Demi, explaining the mission of the CCSHDC.  "It is completely free of charge for the individual.  They only need to fill out paperwork that says they will return the equipment when they no longer need it."

Demi noted that the project was important to students at the OT department because of the demand for such equipment in the area, saying, "When I called to ask if our club could assist, they were very excited.  They said they have waiting lists for some equipment and could really use more.  So, it was definitely a good will project that our students took part in."

Student Lindsey Anderson agreed.  "For myself I wanted to complete this project to show the importance of an organization like the one in Clearfield," Anderson said.  "I think that it is a great organization to help citizens in a time of need with no questions asked.  I also believe that having this organization relieves some stress about getting equipment on the person and their family in a time of need."

Thirteen Penn State DuBois employees were recognized for their length of service to the campus on May 7.  Penn State DuBois recognizes faculty and staff members for their years of employment every five years. 

Back Row, L-R: Anita McDonald, Chancellor; John Blasdell, Assistant Director of Continuing Education, 5 years; Barbara Reinard, Physical Therapy Assistant Program Coordinator, 10 years; Melissa Coles, Academic Advisor, 5 years; Maureen Horan, Kinesiology Instructor, 5 years; Brenda Saricks, Bookstore Manager, 10 years.

Front Row, L-R: Corinne Segalla, Financial Assistant, 10 years; Chuck Dietz, Maintenance Mechanic, 25 years; Richard Kopley, English Professor, 25 years; Diane Lucas, Coordinator for Administrative Support Systems, 10 years; June Strohm, Mathematics Instructor, 20 years. 

Not present for the photo were Bob Agnew, Biology Instructor, 5 years; Scott Yeager, Adult Student Coordinator, 5 years; Diane Kreydt, Disability Services Coordinator, 5 years.

Each year this award recognizes a female student of non-traditional age who is a single or divorced mother and has overcome adversity in her life, yet balances family, outside activities, and personal life to attend school.  Pennie Mowery herself was a single mother who battled cancer while taking classes at Penn State DuBois as an adult learner.  Pennie eventually lost her life to cancer just before her graduation. 

"The similarities between Cindy and Pennie were striking to me," said fellow student Melinda Marconi, who nominated Kosek for the award.  "Cindy has gone through so many trials since I first met her on campus two years ago."

Marconi said when they first met Kosek was caring for both her daughter and a granddaughter on her own, while her son served in Iraq with the Army National Guard.  Then, Cindy was diagnosed with cancer.  Through it all, she never gave up.

"I swear some days she really should have been home resting, but there she was, ready to work," Marconi remembered.  "Never did she give up on school." 

Kosek was able to overcome cancer.  Things were looking up as she planned a wedding with her fiancé when tragedy struck again.  Marconi remembers hearing the heartbreaking news. "Just after her final treatment, her fiancé was killed in a car accident. How she stayed so strong during all of this is a mystery to me."   

Kosek, however, said she simply does what she has to do.  "I was so speechless when I heard I got this award," Kosek said.  "There are so many more people just as deserving as me; or more deserving." 

Today, Kosek remains strong and determined to do her best in school.  She sets an example for her children, who are both dean's list students at the Indiana University of Pennsylvania.  Her daughter, Kristy, is a sophomore at IUP majoring in Psychology.  Kristy is the mother of Maria Jewel, Kosek's granddaughter. 

Kosek's son, Charles Stanavich, is currently serving his third tour in Iraq with the Army National Guard.   

After earning her Letters, Arts and Sciences degree, Kosek said she would like to enter a field related to natural resources and conservation.  "I want to work to conserve our environment so it is still there for my granddaughter to enjoy," she said.

DuBois - Autumn Weil has accepted the position of Alumni and Development Specialist at Penn State DuBois.  This new position was created out of a recent reorganization of the development and alumni relations programs to provide coordinated services and support for all constituents of Penn State DuBois.

Penn State DuBois Director of Development Jean Wolf said, “This is a natural progression in Autumn’s career in that she has past experience in non-profit fundraising at Shepherd Community Center in Indianapolis, Indiana and as staff assistant in development at Penn State."  Wolf continued, "I look forward to working with Autumn in serving and promoting the interests of everyone in the Penn State DuBois family.”

This full time position is responsible for providing support to the DuBois Alumni Society and coordinating alumni activities and programs including fundraising for the DuBois Alumni Society Trustee Scholarship Endowment.  In addition, responsibilities include planning and implementing development activities and fundraising appeals promoting annual support of campus programs and scholarships.

DuBois – Students from a wide variety of academic programs were honored at the 70^th Annual Delta Mu Sigma Honors Convocation at Penn State DuBois on April 18.  Awards at the Honors Convocation recognize students for an array of accomplishments, ranging from academic excellence, to overcoming hardships to succeed. 

The following is a list of award recipients:  

ACADEMIC AWARDS

English Literature Award
Leola L. Crosley
Wesley S. McMasters
Jeffrey G. Sexton
                       
Prometheus Award
Kelly E. Hosack

Delphi Award
Jennifer L. Bodenhorn

Women’s Studies Academic Award
Laura A. Rhodes

Center for Undergraduate Excellence (C.U.E.) Most Valuable Tutor Award
Philip L. Myers

Science and Mathematics:
Excellence in Math Award
Matthew B. Dickey

Science and Mathematics:
Excellence in Earth Science Award
Joshua J. Snedden

Baccalaureate Degree in Human Development and Family Studies Academic Excellence Award
Shannon R. Kassab

Associate Degree in Occupational Therapy Academic Achievement Award
Sheila R. Adams

Associate Degree in Occupational Therapy Profession in Practice Award
Lindsey M. Anderson           

Associate Degree in Physical Therapy Assistant Academic Excellence Award
Jacqueline A. Butler

Associate Degree in Physical Therapy Assistant Richard Serianni Memorial Award
Todd D. Freeland

Associate Degree in Wildlife Technology Agricultural Science Alumni Society Award
Nathan R. Fronk

Associate Degree in Wildlife Technology Sherwood S. Stutz Award
Melinda M. Marconi

Associate Degree in Wildlife Technology David T. Wanless Award
Elizabeth V. Costanzo

Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology Academic Excellence Award
Pamela K. Ott
William E. Wehler

SCHOLASTIC ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

Highest Cumulative Average:

Freshman Associate Degree After One Semester
Amy L. Glass
Kayla M. Miller
Ralph W. Schultz

Freshman Baccalaureate Degree After One Semester
David R. Casolo
Rebecca A. Edwards
Christy A. Hindman
Whitney C. Lewis

Sophomore Baccalaureate Degree After Three Semesters
Matthew D. Brumberg
Ross D. Grady

Upperclassman Baccalaureate Degree After Four Semesters
Sueann R. Doran
Patricia L. Rutter

SPECIAL AWARDS           

Excellence in Academic Advising Award
Annette Muth
Scott Yeager

Students’ Choice Service Award
Marly Greeley

Susanne Waitkus Faculty Award
Jacquelyn K. Atkins
John A. Johnson
Keely A. Roen

Janette M. Burns Award
Andrea S. Graham
           
Pennie Mowrey Memorial Award
Cindy J. Kosek

Terry Hartman Community Service Award
The Business Society
Michelle L.Haley
Adam J. Hicks
Melissa J. Livergood
Crystal J. Vicklund
Edward R. Williams           

Student Affairs Award
Christopher R. Kolp

Laurel Award
Ross D. Grady

Eric A. and Josephine S. Walker Award
Shannon R. Kassab

Delta Mu Sigma Award
Douglas Turner
           
Mansion Memorial Award
Patricia Clouser

Delta Mu Sigma Scholarship
Patricia L. Rutter

Tony Harris and Alina Bumbarger, both of DuBois, were voted Campus King and Queen at the Penn State DuBois Campus Carnival Wednesday, April 29.  Students cast votes for the titles.

The carnival, hosted by the Campus Activities Board, was an internship project completed by student Shannon Kassab.  A Human Development and Family Studies major, Kassab was required to plan a campus event as part of her internship with the Penn State DuBois Student Life Office.

The carnival offered games, music and prize giveaways.  Food, including cotton candy and popcorn was also available at no charge for students.  According to Kassab the Carnival was held because it was just what students needed at this time of year.  "It's the end of the year and everyone is stressed," she said.  "This is lighthearted and fun and it just takes your mind off of everything."

DuBois - Penn State DuBois welcomes Shari Krause, of DuBois, as the new Women's Volleyball coach.

A life-long volleyball player, Krause spent eight years at DuBois Central Catholic High School coaching first Junior Varsity, then Varsity Volleyball.  Krause said her team had winning seasons each year, but 2005 was possibly the most memorable.  That year the team finished their season 16-2 and went on to take first place in the Brookville Invitational Tournament.

Krause is also an assistant coach for the DuBois Area High School Boys Volleyball.  She said she looks forward to stepping into collegiate volleyball.  "I'm very excited to take my coaching career to the next level and I look forward to bringing some new and innovative ideas to Penn State DuBois," she said.

DuBois – Some students at Penn State DuBois turned their class project into a way to support people in need in the DuBois area.  It started when Professor Ben Park assigned students to complete a Social Change Project for his sociology class.  Students Andie Graham, Jackie Penland and Greg Stanik worked together on the group project, and decided to focus on rural poverty.  The results helped to provide food and shelter to members of the community.

"As part of the project we conducted a food drive on campus," Graham said.  She explained that as a member of several student organizations she was able to get more people involved.  "To help with the food drive, the Delta Mu Sigma Honor Society organized another food drive at Shop 'n Save, collecting canned goods from shoppers."

All of the food collected was then donated to the DuBois Area Food Bank on Jared Street in DuBois.  An estimated 700 items, with an approximate value of more than $1,000 was donated.

Graham and Stanik said their project didn't stop there.  "We also got members of Delta Mu Sigma, the Campus Democrats, the ECO Club and Earth and Science Club involved with the Habitat for Humanity Volunteer Day," said Graham.  She noted that Delta Mu Sigma also donated a wheelbarrow to Habitat for Humanity, and the Campus Democrats donated a post hole digger. 

DuBois – Two groups of students from Penn State DuBois recently went south for spring break.  However, these students did not hit the beach or spend the week partying.

A total of nine Penn State DuBois students spent their spring break working to aid in the relief efforts in Mississippi, where communities are still recovering from the devastation left by Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

Student Life Coordinator Marly Greeley led students Adam Hicks, Chris Kolp, Jennie Korb, Alina Bumbarger, Crystal Vicklund and Melissa Livergood to Gulfport, Mississippi, near Biloxi.  In helping to remodel a home damaged by the hurricane, these students painted, laid flooring and installed base board and fixtures. 

"I am very excited that Penn State gave me the opportunity to travel down to Mississippi, and to help a hurricane Katrina survivor fix up her home," said Vicklund.  "I was amazed to see just how much damage was done. It has been almost five years and there is still so much work to be done down there."

International Student Services Coordinator Tharren Thompson organized another group of three students to volunteer in the Mississippi Gulf Coast region through the campus Christian Student Fellowship.  With Thompson were students Kayla Barr, Kyle Gordon and Philip Myers, who spent the week replacing the roof on a house that had been badly damaged by Katrina. 

"I am very proud of the way these students sacrificed their spring break to put in the kind of hard work under adverse conditions that was necessary to give these homeowners some hope in the middle of what is still a very difficult situation," Thompson said.  "This trip has had a powerful impact on our students’ lives, and the experience has motivated them to seek out other ways to help people in need, whether in their home community, or around the world."

Greeley said the trip make a similar impact on the students she worked with.  "I'm impressed with how much the students learned and how they felt over those few days.  It is definitely an experience they won't forget," she said.

Both groups of students volunteered through the emergency and refugee program, Presbyterian Disaster Assistance.  Greeley said a similar service-oriented trip will be planned for next year. 

DuBois – Penn State DuBois students have contributed $850 to Big Brothers Big Sisters through Bowl for Kid's sake, held at the DuBois Lanes.

"This is an event organized and hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Clearfield County," said student and member of the Campus Activities Board Shannon Kassab.  "Each year the organization urges clubs on campus to put together a team," Kassab said, noting that this fund raiser holds special meaning for her.  "Two of the members of the Campus Activities Board team, Crystal Vicklund and myself, are actually Big Sister mentors," she explained.

The Campus Activities Board team raised $600 dollars for Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the Student Government Association assembled a team that raised $250. 

According to Big Brothers Big sisters, Bowl for Kid's Sake has been the agencies' premier fundraiser for more than 40 years.  Each year, approximately 20 million dollars is raised nation-wide though Bowl for Kid's sake events.

DuBois – Students at Penn State DuBois are giving back to the community by donating supplies, and their time, to an area shelter.  The Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) Club has donated painting supplies to Haven House of DuBois.  Additionally, members of the Student Government Association (SGA) have volunteered to do the painting at the shelter.

"One of the most important things the HDFS Club focuses on is community service," said club president Brenda McGarvey, who noted that the club secured the painting supplies through a donation from the DuBois Wal-Mart. 

Haven House manager Kelli Williams said the shelter is available to people who have become homeless due to circumstances that are out of their control.  She said many of her guests include victims of fire or natural disaster, and people who have lost their homes due to foreclosures caused by job loss.  Williams said staff at Haven House work with these guests to help them get back on their feet as quickly as possible, so that they can move on to their own home once again.

"We want to revitalize the house and keep it at its best for our guests," Williams said.  "Maintaining a good atmosphere really helps them."

SGA member Aimie Nestlerode said 11 student government representatives volunteered to do the painting at Haven House.

"I just believe that groups like SGA should do things like this for the community," said Nestlerode.  "Plus, it builds character."

DuBois – Taikoza, a Japanese music and dance group, will perform at Penn State DuBois in March.  The community is invited to attend, free of charge.

Taikoza’s shows are proven to be immensely popular with audiences of all ages, providing enjoyment through a unique cultural experience of Japan.  Their performances introduce the audience to various traditional Japanese musical instruments and explain some of the history of Japanese festivals.  The group is sponsored by East Winds, Inc., an organization dedicated to bringing Asian arts to communities and schools around the globe.

Taikoza has performed world-wide since 1995, in such venues as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Hall, Boston Symphony Hall and Suntory Hall in Tokyo. 

The show is scheduled for Wednesday, March 25, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. in the Hiller Auditorium at Penn State DuBois. 

This performance is part of the Penn State DuBois Cultural Events series.  Cultural events on campus are free and open to the public. 

DuBois – A new course at Penn State DuBois will soon be available for high school students with disabilities.  The Office of Disability Services in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation has created a one credit course focusing on college issues.  Foundations of Post-Secondary Transition is designed to help students with disabilities transition to college successfully. 

“In this course the students will learn the differences in disability services, laws and regulations from high school to college,” explains Disability Services Coordinator Diana Kreydt.  “They’ll also get help with developing the organizational and study skills needed for college, and learn how to prepare and be successful.”  Kreydt explains that the process of registering for this course will be the same process used when students register for any college course.  She says even that will give students a valuable lesson.

“I think it will really help because they will know what to expect,” said Kreydt’s intern, Ken Davis, who is also working to establish the course. “There hasn’t been too much information out there for people with disabilities.  We’ll encourage them and show them they can be successful in post-secondary training and in life.”  To illustrate this point Kreydt has pictures of famous people with disabilities hanging on the wall behind her desk.  The celebrities featured on the wall include Orlando Bloom, who is dyslexic, and Vince Vaughn who has a learning disability. 

The class will meet twice a week for eight weeks.  Upon completion of the course, students will earn one college credit. 

For more information, contact Diana Kreydt at (814) 372-3037 or dlk34@psu.edu.

DUBOIS - A mandatory state-wide food safety course designed to meet the food certification requirements for food service managers, chefs, caterers, cooks, health officials, and inspectors will be offered by Penn State DuBois in partnership with the Penn State Cooperative Extension.

The ServSafe Program fulfills The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture requirements for the Food Employee Certification Act in the categories of food service, retail, and bakery.

Under this act, food service establishments must employ or designate at least one certified supervisory employee.  This requirement must be met by all establishments in the food service industry including retail and bakery.

Each year in the United States, an estimated 76 million cases of food-borne illnesses result in approximately 5,000 deaths. About 95 percent of all food-borne illnesses are caused by the mishandling of food.

The ServSafe course is a nationally recognized certification program that teaches safe food-handling practices that protect customers, increase profitability, reduce liability, and enhance a business' competitive position. The program focuses on the issues of contamination, storage, preparation, serving, and food safety regulations and standards.

Participants who complete the program and pass the examination will receive their ServSafe Certification from the National Restaurant Association and may apply for the state Department of Agriculture certificate required by the Food Employee Certification Act.

The 15-hour class will meet from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 8 and Wednesday, April 22, 2009, at the Community Education Council, 4 Erie Ave., Suite 200, St. Marys.

For more information call (814) 375-4715, class size is limited.

Uniontown, PA – Three Penn State DuBois Men's Basketball players have been honored by the United State Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) for their outstanding performance on the court during the 2008-09 season. 

Marcus Genevro was named to the All-American Team, Chris Dickison received Honorable Mention on the All-American Team, and Jimmy Higgins made the USCAA All-Academic Team.   

According to the USCAA, student-athletes were honored during the National Championships banquet, held aboard the Gateway Clipper Fleets, Majestic paddleboat.  The Majestic cruised Pittsburgh's three rivers, while the USCAA kicked off the 2009 Basketball National Championship "Thunder on the Three Rivers."

The Penn State DuBois men have just wrapped up an exciting and successful basketball season.  They finished 18-9 overall and 14-5 in the PSUAC.  The season ended for the team with a loss in the PSUAC semi-final matchup to Penn State Beaver by a score of 80-69.

DuBois - Penn State DuBois is pleased to announce the hiring of a Technology Transfer Coordinator to assist area entrepreneurs and existing organizations in developing ideas and products that increase productivity, reduce costs, and meet new market demands.

Sally Moran, the new Technology Transfer Coordinator will facilitate technology based ideas that require research and development.  Utilizing grant resources, Moran can provide businesses with the advanced capabilities in Research Development, licensing, and commercialization offered by the university.  

As a former Marketing Vice President and General Manager for Osram Sylvania Inc. in St Marys, Moran succeeded in igniting revenue and market share for Osram’s global lighting business. Under her direction, the emphasis within various business units changed from a “one size fits all” orientation to a focus on products differentiated by packaging, advertising and technology. 

“With my efforts and the support from great teams, we enabled Sylvania to redefine the future of lighting with innovative products,” Moran said.   “At the same time, we have substantially increased the profit margin for the innovative products when compared to regular product offerings.”

 “With her extensive experience in designing business and marketing plans, in navigating governmental agencies and in analyzing research and developing strategies to accomplish organizational goals, Sally is able to work successfully with entrepreneurs at any stage of the technology transfer process,” said Assistant Director of Continuing Education John Blasdell.  “We are excited that she will be the Institute of Higher Education (IHE) representative merging Penn State resources with developing regional needs to promote economic growth in the area.”

Moran will help generate fresh ideas and solutions to real problems and access business resources with no charge for any of the consultation provided.  She is located in room 102B in the DEF Building at Penn State DuBois and can be reached at (814) 375-4803 or sum24@psu.edu.

Look for an Open House, to be held this summer, which will provide more information about the Technology Transfer Center and the resources available at Penn State DuBois to spur regional economic progress.  

DuBois – Rachael Schmitz of Clarion has been chosen to coach the new Penn State DuBois Women's Soccer Team.  She'll lead the team onto the field for the first time this fall. 

Originally from Pittsburgh, Schmitz had a successful collegiate soccer career at Clarion University where she earned such distinctions as Rookie of the Year and MVP, and served as captain of the team.

Schmitz, who has played soccer since she was four years old, said she currently coaches a club team, and has coached many youth clinics for soccer development.  She is currently searching for talented players to add to her roster.

"I hope to start a great women's soccer program here at DuBois that will continue to grow year after year," Schmitz said. "I'll strive for a very successful first season with many wins on our side and a great development of players."  She continues, "It is going to be an amazing experience to start a program from the ground, and I only have high hopes for this new addition to the Penn State community."

Women's soccer has been added to the lineup of athletic programs at Penn State DuBois in a continuing effort to offer a variety of opportunities to students.  “Extracurricular activities like athletics are a big part of the student experience,” said Chancellor Anita McDonald, who advocates a well rounded educational experience that combines excellence in both academics and athletics. 

For varsity sports schedules and the latest Penn State DuBois Athletics news, visit http://www.ds.psu.edu/StudentLife/Athletics/21877.htm

Penn State DuBois played host to area soldiers who will deploy to Iraq during a February ceremony. 

The 542^nd Quarter Master Company, Detachment II of the U.S. Army Reserve in DuBois left for Camp Atterbury, Indiana for training on Saturday, February 21, and will soon be placed on active duty at Camp Anaconda, Iraq.  A Deployment Ceremony for the 50 members who will serve a one year tour was held in the gymnasium at Penn State DuBois, followed by a reception for the soldiers, friends and family in the Student Union.

More than 400 people attended the ceremony, where speakers included Two-Star General Michael Dunleavy.  Representatives from local fire and police departments, the Pennsylvania State Police, the VFW, the Masonic Lodge and area businesses also turned out for the event.

U.S. Army Reserve Officials said all food for their reception was donated by people from the DuBois community.  Penn State DuBois was also proud to provide the use of campus facilities free of charge.

"The community support has been so unbelievable," said Colonel Neil Skow of the 542^nd.  "I've never seen anything like the support that the people of DuBois give to their troops.  They are really here for their soldiers." 

DuBois – Newly elected Congressman Glenn Thompson (R, 5) recently visited Penn State DuBois to tour campus facilities and learn about the engineering program.  Chancellor Anita McDonald also invited Thompson to meet with engineering faculty and campus staff members who are working to improve the local economy with services offered at Penn State DuBois. 

Engineering Professor Craig Stringer presented an overview of the engineering program, and offered examples of the goals he and his colleagues strive for in helping the area manufacturing industry grow.  "We're always looking for things on the cutting edge," Stinger said.  "How can we teach them the skills of today as well as the skills of tomorrow?"

The new Technology Transfer Coordinator Sally Moran explained ways the engineering program at Penn State DuBois reaches out to area industry through things like continuing education and the Tri-County Keystone Innovation Zone, which is designed to assist local business. "We want to help develop small technology-based companies here, and help existing businesses develop and grow," she said. 

John Blasdell, Assistant Director of Continuing Education at Penn State DuBois, explained how the campus will maintain outreach to the manufacturing community.  

"By offering a new four year engineering program and training through continuing education, we'll provide a variety of opportunities for individuals and local companies to grow," he said.

Director of Continuing Education, John Piccolo expanded upon this, noting the struggles that some manufacturers in the region currently face.  "The local Powder Metal industry is really suffering due to their direct tie with the automotive industry," Piccolo explained.  "We want to try to help these companies get into new markets." 

"I wasn't aware of how much these programs are really integrated into this region," said Thompson.  "This is exciting." 

After touring the campus engineering facilities and viewing examples of the tools and machinery in the labs, Thompson said he has faith that Penn State DuBois and the Tri-County KIZ can help manufactures pull through these tough economic times.  "I feel a lot more confidence in our industries now than I did when I got here this morning," he said. 

PSU DuBois Men's Basketball Ends Season

The Penn State DuBois Men's basketball team lost in the PSUAC semi-final matchup to top seeded Penn State Beaver by a score of 80-69 tonite.  The two teams split their games during the regular season with DuBois winning 103-91 on Dec. 1 and Beaver winning 71-66 on Feb. 2.  Beaver's hot shooting and defensive toughness were the deciding factors in the game.  DuBois had their worst shooting performance of the season while shooting 35% from the field and making only 16 out of 31 foul shots.

Once again, Marcus Genevro lead the way with 24 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists.  Josh Salter turned in another strong offensive night with 17 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists.  Jovan Brown rounded out the double figure scorers with 12 points and six rebounds.  Chris Dickison added 9 points and 9 rebounds in the game.

Penn State DuBois ended their season 18-9 overall and 14-5 in the PSUAC.

Men Face Beaver In PSUAC Final Four

The Penn State Men’s Varsity Basketball Team will face Western Division Rival Penn State Beaver  tonight at 6:30 at the Bryce Jordan Center in State College, PA.  This will be the third meeting between the two teams this year.  DuBois downed Beaver 103-91 on December 1 and dropped a 71-66 decision on February 2.  The winner of this game will play for the PSUAC Title and an automatic USCAA National birth tomorrow at 12:30, again at the Bryce Jordan Center.

Penn State DuBois, 18-8, 15-4 (PSUAC), will look to make their third consecutive trip to the National Tournament.

"This was a great road playoff win against a very good team."

Penn State DuBois will now play their PSUAC semi-final game on Monday evening at the Bryce Jordan Center in State College. The opponent and game time will be determined on Friday night after the other first round games are complete. Penn State DuBois is now 18-8 overall and 14-4 in the PSUAC.

For more information, see our Athletics home page.

Members of The Penn State DuBois THON Committee are resting their feet this week, after staying on them for 46 hours straight during the Penn State Dance Marathon at the Bryce Jordan Center at University Park.

Students Jessica Booher and Carrie Flanagan represented DuBois at THON over the weekend. They were just two of the more than 700 dancers who raised $7.4 million to benefit children battling cancer. THON Committee members at DuBois say they're proud of the contributions they made to that total, which amount to more than $4,500.  "We could not have been this successful without the hard work from all committee members and the Penn State DuBois community," said THON Committee Chair Brittany Charleson.

The committee raised their contributions through canning drives, a date auction, and the annual Rockathon, where students stay in a rocking chair for an extended period of time.

One of their most popular fundraisers is the THON Haircut held every February in the Student Union.  This year the haircut event raised nearly $600.

Three people volunteered to have their hair cut.  English Professor Tony Vallone, Adult Student Coordinator Scott Yeager, and Student Government President Tony Harris all went under the clippers.  By making donations, members of the crowd in the Student Union were allowed to make styling suggestions to create a new look for each volunteer.  The most popular suggestion was dying the hair of all three volunteers, with purple proving to be the favorite color.

DuBois - The Osher Foundation Re-entry Scholarship for Adult Learners was recently established to assist students throughout Penn State University.  At Penn State DuBois, two students received the scholarship this semester, and they say it helps to make their dream of earning a degree possible.

Ed Williams, 33 and Ross Grady, 27 both worked various jobs before deciding to return to school.  Ed remembers working as a bouncer in night clubs.  Ross currently works as a tax preparer, but has worked up to three jobs at once.  Both say paying for school would be nearly impossible if it were not for scholarship funding.

“I’m paying for my own education with the help of scholarships and I’ll be debt free at the end of my second year of school,” Grady said.  Grady is finance major and plans to go into banking after graduation in 2011.

“As a full time student, most of my time is dedicated to school work.  With day-to-day expenses, I need these scholarships just to get by,” said Williams, who is now majoring in Letters, Arts, and Sciences and plans to graduate in 2011, then attend law school at Berkley. 

To be considered for the Osher Foundation Scholarship a student must be between 25 and 50 years old and working on their first bachelor’s degree.  Students must also demonstrate academic promise, which is no problem for Williams or Grady.

“Ross Grady and Edward Williams are among our best students.  They responded to this scholarship opportunity and met it with success,” said Adult Student Coordinator Scott Yeager.

Ross and Edward were among a group of 30 adult learners throughout Penn State who received the Osher Foundation Re-entry Scholarship.  The Osher Foundation awards for spring 2009 were totaled at $50,000 University-wide. 

The Edge can provide an answer for almost any question a student has, while helping them stay focused and maintain a positive college experience. Intervention Strategist Cindy Liddington coordinates the Edge.  She says she can offer students help with scheduling classes, using online systems, finding tutors, and even offer assistance to students looking for resources in the community.  Liddington said one of the most valuable services she provides is help with the organization of school work and assignments.

“It really can help them put an edge on their career,” says Liddington.  “It’s a way a student can make the most of their college experience.”  Liddington explains that students are often unaware of the many resources the campus and community have to offer, and sometimes don’t know who to ask.  Liddington is now another valued resource on campus for students to get information to meet multiple needs from academics, to athletics.”

She says that if she does not have the information, she will know who does.  “I can even refer students to off campus organizations,” she says.  “Agencies that can assist you in getting food or heating fuel are even on my list.”

Liddington is available in room 110 of the DEF Building Monday thru Friday from 9:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. or by appointment, for those students who are unable to see her during the day.  She can be reached at (814) 375-4792 or ldl137@psu.edu.

DuBois – Porcupines are well known for their sharp quills, which can cause significant damage to people and animals.  However, a Penn State DuBois student has found that the unapproachable creature can cause just as much damage to property by using its teeth. 

Wildlife Technologies Student Andie Graham is conducting an ongoing study into the damage porcupines cause to structures along a Rails to Trails recreational path in Jefferson County.  She began in April of 2007 by assessing a five-mile stretch of the Brockway Rails to Trail system, known to host an abundance of porcupines.  

“Several damage hotspots were found, and included items such as plastic culverts and signs, and wooden bridges and mile marker posts,” Graham said.  Obvious the damage was caused by an animal, she then had to pin point the culprit.  “It was determined to be caused by porcupine and not beaver due to visible teeth and claw marks, and the lack of wood chips surrounding the damage.  Beavers only eat live vegetation, which also helped in determining that it was caused by porcupines,” she explained.   

Two bridges, constructed of pine, showed the most damage.  Graham discovered a fence, made of naturally rot-resistance black locust, in the same area showed no damage.  To prove the porcupines had a taste for pine and not for locust, Graham placed 40 test posts in the ground in that same area.   Half were pine, and half were black locust.  Ten of each type of post were left untreated, while ten of each type were sprayed with a repellent spray intended to ward off porcupines. 

Over months of weekly inspections Graham found she had proven her hypothesis. The black locust posts went untouched, while the pine had been chewed.  However, Graham is still searching for a way to preserve pine structures as well, and may be onto something.  

“The wood had been stripped from the pine posts and was found on the ground next to it,” Graham said. “Based on this information, the repellent seems to deter porcupines from consuming the posts, but not from damaging the posts.”  

Graham also has a theory as to why the porcupines are attracted to the pine structures in the first place.  “It’s important to note that all of the pine posts have been pressure treated with preservatives, some of which contain sodium,” she explained.  “Since porcupines are fond of salt, this could explain why they prefer the pressure treated pine over the untreated locust.” 

Graham’s work from this point on will involve experimentation with different types of repellents and investigating seasonal patterns of the animals.

DuBois – Business and Accounting students at Penn State DuBois are available to file taxes, free of charge, for anyone who qualifies for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program offered through the IRS. 

VITA is designed to give low income families professional-grade tax help, without the professional-grade bill. 

“The program is designed to catch a lot of entry errors that people often make while filing their taxes,” said Business Instructor Annette Muth.  “We can help them avoid those mistakes, while saving them up to $200 in fees.” 

Students completed a tax accounting class at Penn State DuBois, plus became certified with VITA through an online IRS program. 

You are eligible for this free service if your Earned Income is less than:
$38,646 ($41,646 for married) with more than one qualifying child
$33,995 ($36,995 for married) with one qualifying child
$12,880 ($15,880 for married) with no qualifying child

Volunteers will be available, by appointment only, every Wednesday in February and March from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. in Room 103 of the Swift Building at Penn State DuBois.   To make an appointment, call 1-800-822-2610.

DuBois – A research project involving Penn State DuBois faculty members and their students, Penn State Extension, and the Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry could help to bring back a species of hardwood tree that was once a dominant tree in eastern US forests.  A rapidly spreading fungus, known as the chestnut blight, attacked the American chestnut tree in the early part of the 20^th Century.  Within a few years, the chestnut virtually disappeared from America’s forests.  

“This species accounted for one quarter of our hardwoods before its demise,” said Forestry Instructor Aaron Stottlemyer.”  One in every four trees was a chestnut. I can’t even wrap my head around that,” he said, noting the drastic impact this had on the forest landscape.  What's more, is the effect that the loss of the chestnut had on wildlife that largely depended on the trees for the food they produced.  “It was the largest producing food source in the forest,” Stottlemyer remarked.  “Its demise was among the most ecologically significant events of our time.” 

Stottlemyer hopes an equally significant event will occur with the return of the chestnut.  Groups like The American Chestnut Foundation (TACF), The Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry, and Penn State University have been working on breeding a blight-resistant American chestnut.  By cross-breeding American chestnut with the already blight-resistant Chinese chestnut, scientists hope to produce a strain of American chestnuts that will be highly resistant to the blight.  Wildlife Technology students taking Stottlemyer’s forestry classes will contribute to this effort and gain valuable field experience.

Stottlemyer said Wildlife Technology students will plant 2,000 chestnut seeds on a 3.5 acre portion of reclaimed strip mine near Coal Glen, Jefferson County.  They’ll do this in cooperation with TACF, which owns the land. The study begins now, and future students in the Wildlife Technology program at Penn State DuBois will continue the research for years to come.  The study was spear-headed by Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry Forester and project leader, Gary Gilmore and has the objective of developing methods to effectively reforest land that has been strip mined. 

Soil compaction, Stottlemyer explained, could result in poor tree growth on former strip mine sites.  “Common reclamation practices that involve heavy machinery compact the soil and then the land is planted in heavy grass cover to reduce erosion,” he said.    He added, “We’re interested in whether tree growth can be improved by loosening soil and reducing competition with grasses for light, water, and nutrients.” 

Another possible reason for poor tree growth at such sites could be the impact of rodents and birds that eat seeds before they become established.  This is where Penn State DuBois Instructor of Wildlife Technology Keely Roen will join in the research project.  “The same students in Aaron’s class are in my Wildlife Techniques class,” she explains.  “At some point we’ll do a rodent survey.  We suspect the rodents and birds eat the seeds.”  In this way, two related disciplines are coming together for one cause.  “Wildlife biologists and foresters are closely tied,” said Roen.  “You can’t just care about wildlife or just care about the environment.  They go hand in hand.” 

The opportunity to work on different parts of an important research project in two different classes, Stottlemyer said, will be one of the most valuable experiences his students can get.  “We’re going to be able to involve our students in so much of this.  They’re contributing to an important research project and seeing how the things they learn in class are applied toward managing our natural resources.” 

 Ultimately, throughout this learning experience, students could be contributing to one of the most significant events in the history of their field.  As Roen said, “Can you imagine the enormous potential of this work?”  “Growing chestnuts on strip mined land would be incredible.” 

DuBois – Penn State DuBois Professor of English Richard Kopley is featured in the January issue of U.S. News and World Report.  Kopley is quoted in an article titled Investigate Tales of Edgar Allan Poe, which is part of the bigger special report in this issue, called 50 Ways to Improve Your Life in 2009.  The article reminds readers that 2009 marks the 200^th anniversary of Poe’s birth, and that his works still make for great reading.

Kopley is one person who does not need that reminder; he knows plenty about Poe. Known for his extensive research of Poe’s works, he published his latest book in November.  Edgar Allan Poe and the Dupin Mysteries (Palgrave Macmillan) takes an in-depth look at Edgar Allan Poe’s three detective stories, “The Murders in the Rue Morgue,” “The Mystery of Marie Rogêt,” and “The Purloined Letter.”  Kopley’s book analyzes the structure, sources, and autobiographical significance of these stories, which many say inspired the detective story genre. 

Kopley says the book is a resource for people studying Poe, and an intriguing read for those who just wish to learn more about the writer.  He is also happy to say that there is plenty of interest in the book, stating, “I’m totally happy about the success of the book.  It sold 277 copies in one month, and that’s very good for an academic book.” 

DuBois – Students from Penn State DuBois did not have class on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, but a group of them saw the day off as a chance to give back to communities.  Students from a group of nine Penn State campuses, including DuBois, gathered at Penn State Beaver in Center Township, near Pittsburgh.  From there they dispersed to communities in that area to perform various types of community service. 

Eighty students, in all, volunteered in soup kitchens, collected food for the less fortunate, and helped to remodel homes. 

“I like to volunteer and this was truly a rewarding experience,” said Penn State DuBois Student Crystal Vicklund.  “I am grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community on this national day of service.”

Penn State DuBois Student Life Coordinator Marly Greeley said she and her colleagues from the other campuses saw this as an opportunity to spread messages that King believed in.  “We talked to them about the importance of Martin Luther King Jr. and how he would want to see people doing community service and giving back,” she said. 

Greeley says representatives from the group of Penn State campuses look forward to taking on similar projects for Martin Luther King Jr. Day next year, in different communities.

DuBois – A team of researchers, including Penn State DuBois Professor of Psychology John Johnson, have discovered that literature may inspire readers to be ethical members of society.  “As an evolutionary psychologist,” said Johnson, “I am especially interested in the impact of literature on the emotions of the reader, and in what function these emotions serve.”

Johnson and fellow psychologist, Dan Kruger from the University of Michigan, teamed up with English Professors Joe Carroll from the University of Missouri and John Gottschall from Washington and Jefferson College to complete this research and draft an article on their findings.  Their article, Hierarchy in the Library: Egalitarian Dynamics in Victorian Novels, appeared in the December issue of Evolutionary Psychology. 

Johnson said human nature is constantly expressed in literary works.  Beneath the story line there are often subtle social messages.  Concentrating on 19^th Century British Novels, the team found that readers vicariously participate in a world that resembles the social dynamics of hunter-gatherer societies.  The data confirms that the protagonists in these stories exhibit good morals and behavior, while the antagonists demonstrate status-seeking and dominant behavior.  Johnson and his colleagues believe the classic good guy/bad guy tales appeal to readers in specific ways. 

“We were not surprised to find that protagonists evoked feelings of fondness and admiration, while protagonists aroused feelings of anger and contempt,” Johnson said.  “But two deeper questions are, first, what is it about good guys and bad guys that stir up different feelings in the reader, and, second, what is the purpose of literature that arouses these feelings? Our data indicate that readers like protagonists because they have more mild mannered personalities and are motivated by a desire to help others and build alliances. Antagonists, on the other hand, are disliked because they are more aggressive and are motivated by self-interest, by the acquisition of personal wealth, power, and prestige. We believe that the purpose of this kind of literature is to activate emotions that encourage people to engage in ethical behaviour in real life.”

To reach this conclusion, Johnson and his colleagues departed from traditional methods of literary studies and adopted a scientific approach.  They gathered literary character ratings from more than 500 literary scholars, and tested specific hypothesises about Victorian novels.

Their article can be found at http://www.epjournal.net/filestore/ep06715738.pdf 

The Penn State DuBois Athletics Fundraising Committee invites the community to the second annual "Lion" Wine and Cheese on Friday, February 20, 2009, at the DuBois Country Club.   The event begins at 6:30 p.m.  Wine and cheese sampling, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and dessert will be provided. Admission tickets are $25 per person.  Purchase tickets by January 20^th and receive $10 of general raffle tickets.

A live and silent auction, raffles, and games of chance will be held.  Numerous businesses and individuals in DuBois and the surrounding areas have donated items such as; a weekend get-a-way, flight lessons, golf packages, tickets to Penn State sports events, and Eisenhower Theater tickets.

All proceeds will benefit varsity athletic programs at Penn State DuBois. 

For additional information or to purchase tickets contact Autumn Weil at 375-4775 or agw11@psu.edu

DuBois – Anyone who plans to enroll, or has considered enrolling at any university is invited to attend one of four Financial Aid Workshops hosted by Penn State DuBois.  

"The cost of higher education can be very daunting," said Penn State DuBois Financial Aid Coordinator, Terry Feathers.  "But often, it is possible to offset the cost with various sources of financial aid.”

Feathers knows the task of finding financial aid can also be intimidating, but his workshops can give anyone a better understanding of the process. 

"Getting started can sometimes be the hardest part," he said.  "After that, you just take it step by step.  Our program is intended to help all people attending any institution navigate the free application process." 

In all programs information will be presented on how to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  Other aid programs and important dates to remember will also be covered.

The following is a list of dates, times and locations for upcoming workshops:

Tuesday, January 13, 6:30 pm at Brookville Area High School.
Thursday, January 22, 6:30 pm in Hiller Auditorium at Penn State DuBois.
Tuesday, January 27 at 6:30 pm at Clearfield Area High School 
Thursday, January 29, 6:30 pm at St Marys Area High School 

DuBois – Student Clubs at Penn State DuBois are shattering records for the amount of money they have raised for area charities and organizations.  According to the Office of Student Life clubs have donated $10,360 during the Fall 2008 semester alone.  The combined total for both fall and spring semesters last year was $10,660.   "This is an exciting time, as our students are on course to raise more money in a single year than ever before,” said Chancellor Anita McDonald.

The largest contributor to this total so far is the Penn State DuBois Business Society, which raised over $5,000 for the DuBois Area United Way through its Casino Night event.  “We really want to thank the Business Society for doing this,” said United Way Director Herm Suplizio.  “It was an excellent fundraiser for the community, and it shows that those students have pride in the community and really do care.”

Some student organizations, however, also donate items or services.  Recently Occupational Therapy Students donated Occupational Therapy Kits to Clearfield Hospital.  Also, the Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) Club helps charitable organizations organize community activities.  For example, members work with Big Brothers Big Sisters to take children bowling each year.  “The HDFS Club provides a link between students and the community,” said club member, Shannon Kassab.  “It’s so rewarding to see the children’s faces light up.” 

One of the most successful fund-raising organizations on campus is the Penn State DuBois THON Committee.  Last year they raised nearly $7,000 for the Penn State dance marathon, which benefits children with cancer.  Since the THON event takes place in February, Associate Director of Student Life Rebecca Pennington said the THON Committee’s campaign has just kicked off, and will surely raise a substantial amount of funds in the coming weeks.

“I am so truly proud of this campus and our students,” Pennington said.   She continues, “The time and effort that they have put into raising these funds and making these contributions speaks to the character of our students and the Penn State family.”

University Park – Former Penn State DuBois student Jonathan R. Crawford recently served as student marshal for the College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST) during fall commencement at the Bryce Jordan Center on December 20.   A DuBois native, Crawford carried the college banner and led IST graduates into the ceremony.   He was named marshal due to his academic achievement, participation in building the College of IST, extracurricular activities, character and leadership, and future potential.

Crawford was joined by Penn State DuBois IST Instructor Jason Long, who had the honor of serving as faculty marshal. 

Crawford began his college career at Penn State DuBois, and studied there for three years before moving on to the University Park Campus.  Long remembers Crawford as a promising student.  “He did extremely well at DuBois,” Long said.  “I know he worked very hard in his studies.  I was very pleased to hear that he earned this impressive achievement.”

A veteran of the United States Army, Crawford served from 1999 until 2003, and was deployed to Iraq in 2003 for the initial invasion. 

Currently Crawford is exploring different career paths in IST.  “I'm interested in such opportunities as systems engineering, project management and consulting,” he said.

DuBois – During this season of giving, students in the Occupational Therapy (OT) Program at Penn State DuBois have donated some inventive tool kits to the Occupational Therapy Department at Clearfield Hospital.  Known as Occupation Kits, students worked with therapists at Clearfield hospital to determine what items the kits should include.  They contain items that are used for some typical occupations and tasks that people engage in, like cooking, home maintenance, and dressing themselves or children. 

“The reason these were put together is so therapists at the hospital could have ready-made occupational activities for their patients to use in therapy sessions,” said OT Instructor LuAnn Demi.  She explained, “If a person who had a stroke is receiving therapy and they indicate that they need to do home maintenance chores when they return home, the therapist can pull out the Home Maintenance Occupation Kit and have the patient use the typical items in a therapeutic way.”  The Home Maintenance Kit, Demi said, includes things like pipe fittings that the patient can practice putting together, and even includes a kit the patient can use to build a bird house.  “It’s therapy that makes sense to the patients,” Demi said. 

Clearfield Hospital OT Assistant and Penn State DuBois Graduate Nakoma Tamburlin accepted the donation.  “I think the kits will help a lot,” she said.  “Everything you’ll need is in one container, and they’re very organized and useful for many different activities.” 

The kits donated to the hospital include the Home Maintenance Kit, plus a Pediatric Dressing Kit which contains clothes activities for children to help them learn to dress themselves, and a Cooking kit, with basic cooking utensils and kitchen items.  The OT Department at Penn State DuBois will keep a House Cleaning Kit and a Pet Care Kit on campus to use for instruction. 

Students said just putting the kits together has been educational, and rewarding, and that they learned a lot just by thinking about the items that should be included in the kits.  “It was meaningful to me because it’s going to be used at Clearfield Hospital,” said OT Student Lindsey Anderson.  “It’s not some project on a piece of poster board that I’m going to throw away, it’s practical and people will benefit from it.” 

OT Instructors at the campus will conduct research into the use of these kits at the hospital to determine their usefulness compared to traditional therapy. 

Instructors LuAnn Demi and Marge Pendzick will also make a presentation on Occupation Kits at the American Occupational Therapy Association’s annual conference in Houston, Texas, in April of 2009. 

DuBois – Members of the Penn State DuBois Business Society have presented a check for $5,485 to the DuBois Area United Way. 

Students raised the money by selling raffle tickets for a Las Vegas Vacation as part of their Casino Night event, which was held November 21 at Penn State DuBois.  The winner of the trip is Suzi Van Norman, of Richardsville, PA, who said she’s already made the arrangements for the trip, and can’t wait to leave.

Business Society President, Casey McKinney said more than 150 people turned out for Casino Night, where casino-style games were played using false money.  A Chinese auction and 50/50 held during the event raised over $700 for the Business Society.  “It went really well,” said McKinney.  “We want to make this an annual event.” 

DuBois – The Campus Activities Board (CAB) at Penn State DuBois is currently holding a book drive for the non-profit organization Books For Africa.  Students, faculty, staff and members of the community are encouraged to bring gently used text books, or fiction and non-fiction books and drop them in one of several collection boxes on campus.  Boxes are located in every building to assure convenience to those who participate. 

“The program gathers, sorts and ships books to children in Africa,” said CAB member Shannon Kassab. 

According to the Books For Africa Program, there is a “book famine” in Africa, leaving children there “hungry to read and hungry to learn”. 

You can learn more about the program by visiting http://www.booksforafrica.org/.

DuBois - In 2006, there were over 10,000 suicides in Korea, According to the World Health Organization.  Ben Park, Associate Professor of Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) at Penn State DuBois, wants to know why.  He spent last year in Korea looking for answers.

“My principal purpose, while I stayed in Korea, focused on collecting primary data to further my research on self-destructive behaviors,” Park said.  “In particular, my objective was to obtain personal notes that will enable me to better understand the act of suicide and motives behind the suicide behavior.”

Answers did not come easy, however.  Park explained, “In the Korean cultural context in which suicide behavior is associated with a great deal of stigma I was able to obtain only a few personal documents. Instead, I was able to find seven suicide attempters who were willing to participate in my in-depth interview project.”  Once these interviews are transcribed and translated, Park said, they will be studied in hopes of finding a link between developmental problems and behaviors of self-destruction.

Park also distributed a survey, which asked participants about things like their reasons for living, attachment to one’s body, and identity development.  He was able to collect 249 completed questionairs.  With this information Park said he’ll make a cross-cultural comparison with the same type of data that was collected in Isreal,  in collaboration with a colleague.  He’ll also examine the link or the lack of connection to one’s cultural or ancestral heritage to suicidal ideation.   The results will likely be published in papers and scholarly reports.

While performing this research, Park had the opportunity to make several presentations on his work at Korean universities and medical centers.  He also taught graduate and undergraduate courses to both native Korean and international students at several different institutions, as well as helped to organize events to educate the public about suicide.

“I am pleased with what I have accomplished during my sabbatical year,” Park said.  “I believe that the broadened and deepened cross-cultural knowledge I obtained from my experience teaching in Korea will improve my teaching ability and enhance the quality of education I provide to my students at Penn State. I also expect that I could make further contributions to the local community here in the U.S. due to the experience I had in Korea.”

Park expects to produce a series of publications based on this research.

 Penn State DuBois Assistant Professor of Mathematics and Geoscience, Byron Parizek says he has a passion for unraveling the mysteries of our planet.  Perhaps it’s fitting that his current research could possibly yield results of global significance. 

Parizek’s work attempts to answer questions about climate change and rising sea levels.  He believes the answers he’s looking for lie in glaciers, which are melting at an alarming rate.  He explains, “Glaciers and ice sheets are important in the Earth system as they serve as amplifiers, catalysts, and recorders of climate change.  They also affect landscapes and global biogeochemical cycling.” 

With funding from the National Science Foundation and NASA, Parizek’s focus is on the continental ice sheets in Greenland and Antarctica.  He develops numerical models of ice flow to determine how both past and present ice sheets respond to their environments.  Parizek has developed some theories about what is causing on-going changes in the ice sheets and what those changes can mean to the world.  His work takes into account assumptions about future greenhouse gas emissions and global warming, an obvious catalyst for the melting of ice sheets.  His research helps show that once the removal of coastal ice is initiated, the dynamic response will likely be larger and propagate farther inland at a much faster rate than the glaciology community predicted less than a decade ago.

 “My collaborative research has shown that the ice sheets in both Greenland and West Antarctica can shrink more rapidly than previously believed due to the lubricating and thermal effects of melt water as well as the loss of ice shelves that are floating in a relatively warm bath of ocean water around the perimeter of the ice sheets,” Parizek says. 

He has also found that while the sediment under wet-based glaciers contributes to lubrication and fast flow speeds, it can provide a stabilizing effect at the grounding zone (the region where the ice loses contact with the ocean floor and begins to float as an ice shelf).  In regions around West Antarctica, sub glacial sediment is deposited into grounding-zone wedges on the ocean floor.  Both data and models suggest that when ice is in contact with these local mounds, the frictional drag from increased ice/sediment contact slows ice flow, thereby temporarily stopping further ice retreat until either the ice thins or sea level rises.  Parizek explains that this dual role as lubricator and stabilizer highlights the importance of “understanding the processes of sediment deformation, transport, and deposition as they impact our ability to make reliable predictions about the future behavior of the ice sheets amidst modern atmospheric and oceanic warming.” 

Parizek goes on to explain what this could mean for the planet, “There are implications for sea-level and global-climate fluctuations.  Understanding how ongoing marginal changes will affect inland flow is critical to accurate predictions of ice-sheet evolution, freshwater flux into ocean basins, and sea-level rise.”

While his research is ongoing, Parizek enjoys sharing what he finds with students at Penn State DuBois and throughout the Penn State system.  “I look forward to expanding our new and dynamic Earth Program at Penn State DuBois as well as the Penn State Ice and Climate Exploration Center (PSICE) by mentoring undergraduate and graduate students and post-doctoral fellows,” He says.  He notes that he’s had the opportunity to work closely with a number of students already.  “I have mentored four undergraduate students from The College of New Jersey, two undergraduate students from Penn State DuBois in an Independent Studies course, and I am presently co-mentoring one post-doctoral fellow at University Park.”

Parizek has already published several articles on this research in professional journals, with more due out next year.

DuBois - Penn State DuBois Professor of English Richard Kopley has been recognized for 25 years of service with the campus.  He was awarded a plaque and a chair, according to university tradition.

Kopley began teaching at Penn State DuBois in 1983, after holding a position Illinois State University.

Kopley graduated from New Rochelle High School in New York, where he now returns each year to chair a panel of literary experts who share their knowledge with the high school students.

He went on to study English at Brandeis University in Massachusetts.  He earned his masters in English at the Teachers College at Columbia University, and eventually a Ph.D. from the State University New York at Buffalo where he also taught while completing his degree.

In addition to teaching, research and writing have been large parts of Kopley’s career.  He has authored two books on his literary research.  The latest, due out this month, delves into the structure, sources and autobiographical significance of Edgar Alan Poe’s Dupin Mysteries. 

During the recognition ceremony, Chancellor Anita McDonald spoke about Kopley’s dedication and willingness to reach outside of his expected duties for the good of the university.  “Richard served as Director of Academic Affairs at Penn State Worthington Scranton and as English Disciplinary Administrator for the Penn State campuses,” she recalled.  “But we’ve always wanted Richard here teaching.” 

“I’m very indebted to this campus and always will be,” said Kopley.  “I owe most of my life’s research and my ability to do that research to teaching at Penn State DuBois.  I love the teaching. I love the research.  I’ve also enjoyed the service,” he added.

Kopley lives in State College with his wife Amy, who is a Professor of Art History at Lycoming College in Williamsport.  They have two children, Emily and Gabe. 

DuBois - The Penn State DuBois Student Government Association will hold its 14^th annual Breakfast with Santa this holiday season.  Reservations can be made now.  Available time slots are 8:00 a.m., 8:45 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and 10:15 a.m. Saturday, December 6, in the Student Union at Penn State DuBois. 

Children will have the chance to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and, of course, sit on Santa’s knee and tell him what they want for Christmas.  Kids can participate in activities like face painting and play games, like Pin the Nose on Rudolph.

The cost is $3.75 per person, and proceeds will benefit the Make a Wish Foundation.  Reservations are a must.  To reserve your time, call Marly Greeley in the Student Life Office at (814) 375-4764, or email Marly at mag374@psu.edu.

DuBois – On Thursday, the Penn State DuBois community came together to remember the victims of the September 11 attacks, and to share their own stories.

At exactly 8:46 a.m., the time the first plane struck the World Trade Center, a moment of silence was observed on campus.  Students, faculty and staff gathered in a circle around the flag pole in the center of campus and joined hands as they remembered the attacks of seven years ago.

Sgt. Paul Sprague of the Army Reserve came out to the ceremony.  Sprague served in Iraq in 2003.  “I came to remember and honor the people that died on that day, and those who are still serving to protect us,” he said.

Students, faculty and staff gathered again in the afternoon for an open forum.  Here, personal accounts of 9/11/01 were shared by some who were all too close to ground zero.

“I was in the Navy, and my ship was visiting New York at the time,” said Penn State DuBois Student, Mike Yakich, who watched the towers fall while patrolling the Hudson river to keep civilian crafts safely off of the waterway.  “It was scary and sad,” Yakich remembers.  “We didn’t know what was going on, and our families didn’t know if we were okay.  It was the angst of not knowing.”

Assistant Director of Academic Affairs, Maureen Horan, lived just across the Hudson River in New Jersey at the time of the attacks.  She could often see the Twin Towers during her travels.  “The towers were such a symbol of strength and to not see them there anymore really hit home,” she said.

What hit home even more for Horan, was her personal connection to someone inside the towers.  Her best friend’s husband worked at the World Trade Center, and was inside when the planes hit.

“We sat and prayed and prayed.  Six hours later we found that he was one of the last ones out.”

Horan was happy to say her friend made it out alive.  But he was forever scarred from the tragedy.  As Horan remembered, “He said it was the closest thing to hell he had ever seen.”

Many shared their own memories of where they were when the attacks happened.  Many more sat with tears in their eyes as they listened to the stories.  Student Life Coordinator, Marly Greeley said that while the stories were sad, they had to be told.  “We can never forget these stories,” she said. 

We now have the capability to put emergency notices out to the Campus community by sending a text message to cell phones.

Members of the campus community can sign up for this service for free. Keep in mind that your cell phone carrier may charge you a small fee for receiving a text message depending upon your cell phone plan.

You can sign up for this service at http://newswires.psu.edu.  To signup, click “PSUTXT REGISTER” and follow the prompts.  Be sure to check to box for "DuBois Alerts".  You can sign up for as many PSU campus alerts as you like, but you may receive many unwanted text messages.

Immediately after you sign up, the service will send you a test message to your cell phone.  Be sure to read the message on your phone and enter the 4-digit code on the web page as instructed, in order to complete your subscription.

Our intention for the DuBois Alerts is to use this service only for emergencies and Campus closings.

If you have any questions you can contact Brian Hart (bah22@psu.edu) or John Luchini (jbl1@psu.edu).

More information:  http://live.psu.edu/story/23830