EAST STROUDSBURG UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
ALUMNI HERALD
SPRING/SUMMER 2025
INSIDE
COVER STORY
4 THE BIG FIVE – O!
ESU’s Athletic Training Program celebrates its 50th Anniversary in 2025. Since its creation in 1975, the nationally recognized program has graduated thousands of Warriors whose professional contributions are represented nationwide in high schools, colleges, universities, sports medicine clinics and professional sports teams. Founded in 1975 by three visionary faculty members, the dynamic program continues to grow with a current staff dedicated to student success that results in gratifying careers. How it all started. Where is the program going? Plus, statements from professionals in the field who have taken their valuable ESU education, worked hard, made an impact, and had rewarding experiences along the way.
CampusSnap
ESU’s Contemporary Dancers on stage during their Spring Showcase on March 27, 2025. Photo by Renee Broady
FEATURES WELCOME NEW ESU ALUMNI! 11 Graduates shine during Commencement 2025
14 WARRIOR ESPORTS ROOM DEDICATION ESU recognizes donors who helped make the space a reality 20 WE WANT YOU TO GET INVOLVED Alumni Chapter and Affinity Groups offer the opportunity 31 ATHLETICS PROGRAMS HAVE THEIR DAY First-ever Giving Day garners more than $30K in support
DEPARTMENTS 11 15 20 24 32 35
CAMPUS NEWS ESU FOUNDATION ALUMNI NEWS WARRIOR SPIRIT CLASS NOTES IN MEMORIAM
STAY CONNECTED with your alma mater @WarriorAlumni ESUAA flickr.com/photos/esualumni UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT Kenneth Long DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Office of University Advancement Office of Marketing and Communications Ideal Design Solutions PHOTOGRAPHY James Boburka Jonathan Broady Renee Broady Susie Forrester Olivia Wetherhold
CONTRIBUTORS Lianna DeSantis ’08 Mike Gombita Sara Karnish Greg Knowlden M’04 Sean Laughlin Stacey Marshall Elizabeth Richardson Michelle Keating-Sibel ’00 Shelley A. Speirs ’92 Olivia Wetherhold Caryn Wilkie
East Stroudsburg University Alumni
ALUMNI HERALD The Alumni Herald is the official publication for East Stroudsburg University Warriors of all ages. We work to keep ESU alumni connected with their alma mater and each other. The print magazine is published twice each year (Fall/Winter and Spring/ Summer). Alumni may update their mailing information by notifying the Office of Alumni Engagement. Please address all correspondence to: ESU Office of Alumni Engagement Henry A. Ahnert, Jr. Alumni Center 200 Prospect Street East Stroudsburg, PA 18301 570-422-3333 alumni@esufoundation.org
East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania is committed to equal opportunity for its students, employees and applicants. The university is committed to providing equal educational and employment rights to all persons without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran’s status. Each member of the university community has a right to study and work in an environment free from any form of racial, ethnic, and sexual discrimination including sexual harassment, sexual violence and sexual assault. (Further information, including contact information, can be found on the university’s website at esu.edu/ titleix.) In accordance with federal and state laws, the university will not tolerate discrimination. This policy is placed in this document in accordance with state and federal laws including Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and the Civil Rights Act of 1991 as well as all applicable federal and state executive orders.
GREETINGS TO OUR ESU
WARRIORS!
I’m excited to welcome you to the Spring/Summer 2025 edition of the Alumni Herald and to share the latest updates from East Stroudsburg University. Whether you’re an alumnus, student, parent or friend of the University, we’re grateful for all your contributions to our campus community and our mission of providing quality, affordable, and accessible education, along with enriching student experiences. This mission was particularly evident at our annual Commencement, where we proudly conferred degrees to over 1,000 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral students over three ceremonies. These graduates, poised to make significant impacts in their communities, were inspired by our keynote speakers: Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice Christine Donohue ’74 at the undergraduate ceremonies, and higher education professional Mitchell L. Cordova ’92, Ph.D. (a graduate of our athletic training program, which you’ll read about in a moment) at the graduate ceremony. Hearing from esteemed ESU graduates served as the perfect send-off for our new alumni, who will bring their compassion and expertise to the world. As we move on, you’ll learn about ESU’s revered Athletic Training program. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the department pays tribute to its past, which began as concentration in the health and physical education department, and the path it took to become the nationally recognized standalone major it is today, offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees. As we celebrate this milestone year, you’ll meet just a few of the department’s esteemed alumni working in various aspects of the athletic training field. This edition of the Alumni Herald also includes our 16th Annual Scholarship Dinner, which celebrated 778 scholarship awards that were distributed to our students during the 2023-24 academic year. These scholarships totaled more than $1 million for the sixth straight year, a testament to the generosity of our Warriors who recognize the inherent value of investing in an ESU education. The 12th Annual Economic Outlook Summit, themed Vision, Strategy, Action, featured a keynote address by Natalie Nixon, Ph.D., creativity strategist and CEO of Figure 8 Thinking, LLC. Michael Blaustein, Policy Lead for the Northeast Atlantic at Airbnb, gave a presentation on short-term rentals; Ryotaro Tashiro, Senior Outreach Economist, Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, presented the Pocono Economic Scorecard data analysis; and there was a business showcase highlighting businesses in each of the four counties of the Pocono Mountains. 2 the alumni herald
We opened the spring semester with our annual MLK Celebration Breakfast and presented Mary Gertrude Smith Boddie ’1904 scholarships in the amount of over $4,000 to four students each. A few months later, we hosted the inaugural Warrior Startup Challenge. Sponsored by the Division of Economic Development and Entrepreneurship, the three-round challenge began with 29 students from across a variety of majors and culminated in April when the top three student finalists presented their business ideas to a panel of judges. Kevin Gardner, a senior majoring in business management, took the top prize of $10,000. The Warrior Esports Room, located in the Mattioli Recreation Center, was dedicated this semester, after renovations were completed with contributions from Alfredo E. ’03 and Jennifer Garcia and from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Commonwealth Financing Authority. ESU’s Wolbers Tennis Courts got a facelift. Grants from the United States Tennis Association (USTA) and USTA Middle States totaled $220,000. The project included the reconstruction of three existing courts and the addition of three new courts. Baseball’s first trip to the NCAA Division II College World Series in Cary, N.C. and historic PSAC championships in softball, their first since 1980, and men’s track and field, their first ever, highlighted the spring season in intercollegiate athletics. Our Warriors are celebrating their best-ever finish in the DII Learfield Trophy, placing 31st of more than 300 institutions. All of our winter and spring accomplishments, far too numerous to recount here, are in the Warrior Spirit section inside. Turning the page to the 2025-26 academic year, we look forward to welcoming a large class of incoming first-time and transfer students while continuing to move our returning students towards their degree completion. And I am personally looking forward to welcoming Alumni back during Homecoming, October 10-11. As you peruse this edition of the Alumni Herald, check out the class notes, and be sure to submit one of your own, and reflect on the In Memoriam section. So many thousands of students, faculty and staff who have walked our halls and campus, along with all our supporters, have made ESU what it is today. We will continue our mission. We are Where Warriors Belong. Kenneth Long ESU President
ALUMNI BOARD
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION CORNER
2024-2025
GREETINGS FELLOW WARRIORS, I hope your 2025 is going great! By the time you Looking ahead to August, we are thrilled to welcome receive this issue of the Alumni Herald, summer will our newest board member, Sierra Lefurgy ’23. We’re be in full swing — how quickly time flies! excited to have Sierra join us and look forward to her It’s already been a busy and exciting year. On contributions. Wednesday, April 3, Danica Hartenfels ’97 and I attended the East Stroudsburg University Foundation’s 16th Annual Scholarship Dinner at the Stroudsmoor Country Inn in Stroudsburg, Pa. This year’s theme was “SPOTLIGHT,” celebrating the gift of scholarship and the incredible impact donors have on both our students and the University. For the 2023–2024 fiscal year, 778 scholarships were awarded to ESU students, totaling more than $1.2 million. The evening featured a student panel sharing how their dreams have been made possible by the generosity of our donors.
On April 16 and 17, many members of the Alumni Association Board of Directors participated in Grad Fest. The Graduation Festival serves as a “one-stop shop” for students to verify graduation approval, pick up tickets, purchase caps and gowns, and order class rings or diploma frames. For many graduates, it’s the moment when everything feels real as commencement draws closer. Graduation ceremonies were held Friday, May 9 for master’s and doctoral candidates, and Saturday, May 10 for bachelor’s degree recipients. For the Alumni Association, Grad Fest is an opportunity to connect with students and introduce them to resources and networking available to them as future alumni. Students also had the opportunity to make their Class Gift, taking an important first step in their philanthropic journey and showing their Warrior pride as they prepared to join our alumni family. #AlwaysAWarrior
As we move through summer, many of our local alumni chapters are planning events, and we are also gearing up for our Annual Golf Tournament. This year’s tournament will be held Sept. 5, at a new location — White Tail Golf Club in Bath, Pa. A special thank you to Danica Hartenfels ’97 and Britt Carpenter ’89 for leading the new Golf Tournament Committee. If you’re interested in sponsoring a hole or participating in the tournament, please visit esualumni.org. Fall promises to be just as exciting. Family Weekend is packed with events, and one of my personal favorites is the Legacy Pinning Ceremony on Sept. 20. If you are part of an ESU Legacy Family, please call 570-4223613 or visit esualumni.org/legacy to RSVP and take part in this memorable tradition — a meaningful way to celebrate your family’s connection to ESU. And of course, save the date for Homecoming Weekend 2025 — October 10–11. We’ll have more details soon but be sure to mark your calendars now! Until then, I hope you have a wonderful summer filled with family, friends, and plenty of Warrior spirit. Best regards, Michelle Keating-Sibel ’00 President ESU Alumni Association Board of Directors
Executive Members Michelle Keating-Sibel ’00 President Danica Hartenfels ’97 Vice President Jamie Borger ’15 Secretary Alumni Board Members Michael Bidwell ’99 Kristine P. Bush ’12 Britt James Carpenter ’89 Glenn W. Clark ’74 Joseph Delchop ’10 Danielle Dungee ’17 Aimee Ellison ’91 Ashley Johnson ’08 Brandon Lawrence ’07 Sierra Lefurgy ‘23 Jessica Maxwell ’16 Lori Miller Weinstein ’77 Kate Kirkwood ’95 Adrian Neves ’07 Yewande Oladeinde ’07 Caitlin Ord ’07 M’08 Melissa Owens ’06 M’11 Thomas A. Petro ’72 Jessica Ras ’13 Sean Roth ’16 Robin Schneider ’04 Stephanie Squires ’06 Deborah S. Allen ’98 Bryan Thomson ’14 Emeriti Bryan L. Hill ’71 Glenn G. Gottshalk ‘72 Frank E. Johnson ’74 Phyllis M. Kirschner ’63 Sandra “Pinky” O’Neil-Seiler ’57 Faye D. Soderberg ’58 Virginia M. Sten ’71
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GOLDEN AND GROWING 1975-2025
CELEBRATING ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY, THE ATHLETIC TRAINING PROGRAM AT ESU EMBRACES THE PAST AND READIES FOR A BOLD FUTURE By Sara Karnish
Marguerite Carver
Gerard Rozea ’96 M’97, Ph.D.
Kelly Harrison, Ph.D.
John Hauth, Ph.D.
Keith Vanic ’94, Ph.D.
Photos by Susie Forrester
In 1974, a group of faculty members in East Stroudsburg State College’s health and physical education programs began developing a curriculum for an innovative athletic training concentration. Building upon the university’s already-strong foundation in health and physical education, the new program would be a specialized concentration that would equip students with the ability to prevent and manage athletic injuries. One year later in 1975, the first cohort graduated from ESSC with degrees in health and physical education and a concentration in athletic training. Fifty years later, much has changed for both the program and the university. ESSC is now East Stroudsburg University. What began as a concentration in athletic training has grown into a standalone program offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees. ESU’s athletic training education has built a stellar reputation recognized nationwide. Reflecting on 50 years of achievement, ESU proudly honors the legacy of the pioneering educators who developed the program and continued excellence of athletic training education at ESU. ESU alumnus Gerard Rozea ’96 M’97, Ph.D., is the athletic training program director and department chairperson. “When I started, the program was primarily undergraduate, and we were just starting the master’s option. Now we have created a seamless transition where students can complete the undergraduate program, go into the master’s 4 the alumni herald
degree program, and become eligible to be certified athletic trainers.” Among the program’s highlights, he says, “we were one of the first programs in the country to offer an accredited master’s degree. Our graduates have excelled professionally, securing professional roles in various prestigious settings, as well as working with the physically active at every level—from high school and collegiate sports to professional teams.” Early years In the mid-1970s, professors Lois E. Wagner ’71, John R. Thatcher ’69, and Mertice Shane started the process of developing a full-fledged athletic training curriculum. At the time, Wagner served as the college’s athletic trainer, bringing firsthand expertise to the emerging program. Thatcher was a proud ESSC alumnus and excited to be part of a team leading the college in a new direction. Thatcher recalls, “I was interested in returning to help take the reins and guide them into initial program approval. At that time, it wasn’t an accreditation, but an approval process.” Shane knew Thatcher since his undergraduate days and fondly remembers their collaboration at ESU. “We tried to create a familytype atmosphere with Lois Wagner, who rounded out our faculty trio,” he explains. Shane had responsibilities in various departments but
played an integral role in developing the athletic training curriculum. He acknowledges Thatcher’s essential leadership role, noting “‘Thatch’ was really the driving force behind establishing a formal program. Prior to our arrival, Bruce Hanes, along with Lois Wagner, had worked on educating students to work with the sports teams. We had more sports then than we have now, and we had to have students in a wide variety of areas to give them the best experience possible.” The college offered only two athletic training-focused courses at the time—Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries, required for all physical education majors, and another dedicated athletic training course Thatcher taught. “We knew where the program was going, so we developed several other courses to matriculate into the curriculum,” Thatcher explains. “I taught kinesiology and several other foundational science courses essential to athletic training.” For the first time, students were allowed to pursue a health and physical education major with a concentration in athletic training. The program was demanding, requiring 1,800 hours of clinical time. These early years poised the program for decades of growth and continued excellence. Growth of a program Shane, Thatcher, and Wagner remained pillars of the ESU community for decades. Lois Wagner retired in 2004 and was one of the first female athletic trainers in the field. According to Keith Vanic ’94, Ph.D., professor of
athletic training and graduate program director, “Professor Wagner was as tough as they came, both in and out of the classroom. She demanded that her students give their absolute best in both the classroom and clinical settings and set the highest expectations. She was very special and pushed us to do better. Beneath her tough exterior was a caring individual who helped shape us into better athletic trainers.” Thatcher, who retired in 2006, says, “the growth has been incredible. Part of it is the innovative and creative effort of the people who have been involved to evolve the program to meet the students’ needs.” He adds the master’s level requirements completely changed the program. “All the credentialing was for students who were graduating from the undergraduate program. The addition of therapeutic exercises and therapeutic modalities really helped develop these students with meeting very specific competencies for these agencies. We had to be sure we had all the coursework, laboratory, and clinical experiences to make sure students had all the required competencies.” Shane retired in 2010 after both witnessing and contributing to transformative changes in both the program and the university. His role had evolved significantly. “I was on the field working until 1999, so I spent 25 years on the field,” he recalls. “After that, I was in the classroom and a supervisor and advisor of students, not only on campus but across the Lehigh Valley, New Jersey, and surrounding areas. It changed dramatically, from just working with a handful of students to overseeing a program which had expanded significantly.”
Curriculum in ESU’s Athletic Training program takes place in the classroom, in laboratory settings, as well as spine boarding training in the pool at Koehler Fieldhouse.
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Pride runs deep among ESU’s Athletic Training alumni. Pictured are alumni who gathered for the 40th Anniversary event held in Koehler Fieldhouse in 2015. This year, AT alumni gathered in multiple places, including in Philadelphia, Pa.
day, so that was very helpful.” As faculty were teaching students clinical skills in the lab and working alongside them in the athletic training room, it made for a smooth transition from classroom learning to real world application. John Hauth, Ph.D., is another early faculty member who helped shape the program into what it is today. “He initiated some of the changes in the program that included a broader exposure to general medical content such as differential diagnosis, primary care, and pharmacology,” Harrison says.
The program grew quickly to meet the growing demand for skilled athletic trainers. The requirements of blending intense coursework with critical hands-on clinical experience gave ESU’s students the skills necessary to thrive in virtually any setting. Over the years, the athletic training faculty realized equipping students with the ability to treat an athlete holistically—mind, body, and spirit—was essential for a successful rehabilitation and recovery. Kelly Harrison, Ph.D., associate professor of athletic training and clinical education coordinator, has taught in the program since 1991. She worked in a hospital before coming to ESU. “I was the only athletic trainer in that hospital at the time. It was a very interesting job and I got to do a lot of different things. But I was the only athletic trainer so there was no upward mobility. I started looking at jobs and thought maybe I’d like to go back to a college setting,” she recalls. Harrison was hired as a one-year replacement for Wagner, who was on sabbatical. “I fit with her classes really well. She was a physical therapist, and my clinical skill set fit what they were looking for,” she says. When Wagner returned, Harrison transitioned into a slightly different role. “Most of my job then was clinical. I was hired to provide athletic training services for our teams. The material I was teaching was what I was doing every 6 the alumni herald
“In 1998, when I first became involved, the program was already rooted in a strong tradition of hands-on learning and professional mentorship with experienced, seasoned faculty,” Vanic says. “However, what stands out during my time at ESU is how we’ve continually evolved to meet the changing demands of the profession while staying true to our mission in developing some of our best educators, researchers, and clinicians in the field.” Marguerite Carver, assistant professor of athletic training, has taught in the program since 2015 and is a member of the Pennsylvania Athletic Trainers’ Society (PATS)’ executive board, which has helped her weigh in on some of the legislative aspects of the field. The growth of the master’s-level program has been among the standout moments of her 10 years at ESU. She said the program evolved rapidly out of necessity. “In 2015, the program’s accreditation standards changed, and we’ve been evolving the program into the master’s level, which everyone who wants to be an athletic trainer will have to go through,” she says. Vanic said transitioning the program to master’s level was not without its challenges; namely, significant changes to the curriculum and plan of study; however, “watching our faculty and students rise to the occasion and reshape the program for the future of athletic training was incredibly rewarding. It signified not only progress, but our commitment to leading the program forward.”
The strong family-like atmosphere that’s been a cornerstone of the program since its inception continues today. Carver said the faculty makes every attempt to expose their students to a variety of situations through travel, experiences, and other opportunities to help raise the profession’s profile. The program is now recognized by the National Athletic Trainers Association. In reflecting on his long career at ESU, Thatcher, now living in New York, says it was never just a job. Retired for two decades, he still misses working with the students. “It was such a long time ago, but it seems like yesterday. For both Lois and I, it was definitely a labor of love. Nobody would’ve put the kind of hours we put in unless they were really dedicated to the students. We worked more than 60, 70 hours a week many, many times.” Rozea feels fortunate to have university leaders who have historically believed in and supported the program. “We’re lucky because our
facilities, resources, and some of the things our students have been exposed to are really second to none,” Rozea says. Thanks to the support of university administrators, Rozea has been able to upgrade the athletic training “CARE Center” which serves as an innovative clinical teaching space for athletic training students. “It’s been upgraded significantly to be a non-patient care facility with an athletic training room. The facility is really nice, with state-of-the-art equipment.” Looking back on the past 50 years, ESU honors the legacy of those who started the athletic training program and the many lives its graduates have impacted along the way. Program graduates have found professional opportunities in traditional and nontraditional settings, maintaining the same high standards of excellence. Now, the focus is on looking ahead with excitement and maintaining the same commitment to advancing the profession and preparing the next generation of leaders in athletic training.
ATHLETIC TRAINING PROFESSIONALS ON THE MOVE ESU’S PROGRAM LAID THE GROUNDWORK. FROM THERE, THESE WARRIORS PROSPERED IN THE FIELD. By Sara Karnish East Stroudsburg University’s athletic training program has educated hundreds of professionals who are now working in every capacity of the field. These professionals from ESU – alumni and former students - are representatives of the many career pathways possible within and because of the program.
DAN PAHLS ’89
Dan Pahls ’89 is the owner and chief clinical officer of Synergy Orthopedics, an orthotics and prosthetics durable medical goods company based in Plymouth Meeting, Pa. Their products are found in some of the most prestigious orthopedic clinics and health systems— Penn Med, Johns Hopkins, UPMC—as well as independent clinics. Pahls came to ESU as a health and physical education major and played lacrosse all four years. He uses his athletic training background to guide the direction of his company and has many fond memories of his time at ESU.
Dan Pahls ’89 credits much of his business’ success to valuable mentors and the quality of ESU’s athletic training program.
“The Lois Wagners, Mert Shanes, John Thatchers, and John Hauths of the world were honest, straightforward mentors and educators. I wouldn’t be who I am without them. Part of our striving for excellence
and who we are as professionals came from them. I had a phenomenal overall experience. ESU is blessed with some absolutely phenomenal, groundbreaking people. Everyone should be proud.” Pahls likes to hire athletic trainers for his company because they understand patients’ needs, and graduates from ESU’s program tend to stand out. “Academically, I would take any graduate from ESU’s athletic training program because I know their values and the rigidity of the program, without question. Their core foundation of knowledge is very, very sound. I can’t say that for every program—not every AT program puts out an equal product.”
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CHRISTINA (WISE) COXE ’99
Christina (Wise) Coxe ’99 provides therapeutic horsemanship to clients at Equi-librim in Nazareth, Pa., and athletic training services through regional healthcare organizations.
Christina (Wise) Coxe ’99 is the program director and a PATH Intl. Certified Professional (dual certified) at Equi-librium in Nazareth, Pa. The organization provides therapeutic horsemanship and equine assisted services. Coxe continues to do athletic training on the side through Jefferson Health/Lehigh Valley Health Network. She is one of the few athletic trainers on the East Coast working with, and really able to understand, equestrian athletes, which she does when not working with Equi-librium or Jefferson.
2008. The master’s degree gave me another boost in my career. I was with Coordinated Health, which was then LVHN, and is now Jefferson. I believe I was the longest-tenured athletic trainer at Nazareth—I was there for 20 years before making a career change.” Coxe also worked alongside a former student who became an athletic trainer, creating a nice full circle experience. She expects the program to continue to grow as long as those guiding the young athletic trainers give students the level of opportunities she and her peers were given. “This isn’t something you get into just to have a job. Your passion is what drives you. Always be open to learning and do what you do because you love it.”
Coxe became interested in athletic training when she was a high school athlete and tore her ACL playing softball. “Going through extensive physical therapy after surgery wasn’t fun, but I had an amazing team, and I found I was really interested in sports medicine,” she says. Coxe came to ESU as a transfer student, and says she felt right at home. “I immediately felt like that’s where I was supposed to be,” she says. “I think I struggled a little as most undergraduates do, but it was the first time outside of parenting that I was held accountable and learned what accountability really means. Mert Shane was my clinical advisor. Lois Wagner was my academic advisor. I got to work with all of them and learned so much from each of them.” Coxe is proud of how much the program has grown since she was a student. “I went back to ESU for my master’s in 2007 and graduated in
MARSHA GRANT-FORD ’75
Marsha Grant-Ford’s ’75 career path led her to now teaching in the athletic training program at Montclair State University.
Marsha Grant-Ford ’75 was one of the first graduates from the athletic training program. In the time since, she has had a long and varied career in the sports world. She is currently teaching in the athletic training program at Montclair State University in Montclair, N.J. “I work with dancers at Montclair. That’s something that’s really important to me—working with underrepresented athletes and being involved in contemporary practice to support my teaching,” she says.
Her resume includes working with adaptive sports teams, Olympic athletes, International Goal Ball, basketball, gymnastics, tennis, lacrosse, and working with International Gymnastics and International Sports Camp in Stroudsburg. She’s worked as a special projects consultant with North Star Gymnastics. “I just keep my eye out for wherever I think I can be helpful,” she says. Like many students in the early days of the program, Grant-Ford didn’t know athletic training was a career. She was a young field hockey player, and by the grace of a well-placed shot to her jaw, Grant-Ford learned about it quickly. 8 the alumni herald
“This woman appeared out of nowhere and was manhandling my jaw. It was Lois Wagner, the university’s athletic trainer. The student I knew as the athletic training student assigned to field hockey was telling me in my other ear, ‘Let her do her thing.’ That’s how I got introduced to AT,” she recalls. It seemed like a natural field for Grant-Ford, as well. “I liked people, I liked sports, I liked helping. Before that, I had no idea what I was getting into—the rigor, the responsibility, the trust. I accepted something sight unseen that opened up into this wonderful passion and profession.” She advises younger students to trust the process. “The faculty and preceptors are investing in you and the future of the profession. You’re going to be asked to do things you’ve never done before and step out of your comfort zone We are going to mold you and change the way you make decisions and process information.”
ARMAND MARTINELLI ’80
Armand Martinelli ’80 was the athletic trainer for the local high school as well as mayor of East Stroudsburg for 24-years.
Armand Martinelli ’80 found his place at ESU, and the East Stroudsburg community became his home for decades. Martinelli enrolled in the athletic training program when it was only a few years old and not widely publicized outside of the region. He wasn’t sure of his plans after high school. He was headed to the military, but his football coach steered him in another direction.
“I learned how to tape ankles so I helped with the football team. The coach asked if I wanted to be an athletic trainer,” Martinelli recalls. His experience with athletic trainers was limited, but he agreed to tour the ESU campus. “It turned out, it was the best fit I could’ve had,” he says.
education, for 41 years. He entered local politics along the way and served as mayor of East Stroudsburg for 24 years. He’s now retired and a full-time “papa.” “I’m proud to have been part of the program. I didn’t realize I’d gotten in on the ground floor. One thing I learned from the program is the work ethic my father instilled in me was very valuable. Sometimes you have to give direction, other times, take direction. When I dealt with my professors, I had to take direction. When I was working with athletes and students, I gave direction, and some didn’t want to take it. After I retired, I missed it every day. I definitely think it was the right choice for me, because I was dealing with young people every day.”
Martinelli went on to be an athletic trainer at East Stroudsburg High School, where he also taught health, physical education, and driver’s
KIM LISZKA
Kim Liszka attended ESU from 1991-94. She’s traveled a unique career path, but it all began with her love of sports and the outdoors. ESU’s exercise science and athletic training programs fit her passions perfectly. Those passions led her straight into the athletic training program, where a single moment sealed her path: a baseball player took a line drive to the nose. “I remember watching the athletic trainer stay completely calm, assessing the situation like it was second nature,” she says. “I was blown away. That composure, that competence, I wanted to be that.” Liszka has applied her athletic training education to roles as a military combat medic and nurse and a civilian ER nurse. When her son Jace graduated from high school, Liszka pivoted once again into the world of wilderness medicine. She’s since served as a chief medical officer in some of the most remote corners of the world, combining adrenaline with purpose in the most
Kim Liszka’s path since attending ESU has led to a career in athletic training, a military combat medic and nurse, to starting a non-profit dedicated to empowering military women.
rugged terrains and was a participant on Fear Factor, American Ninja Warrior (military edition) and the survival show American Tarzan. Liszka now lives in Bend, Oregon, and has turned her focus towards healing and empowerment in a different way. She co-founded the Reveille & Retreat Project, a nonprofit dedicated to providing transformative outdoor experiences for military women. She’s also the voice behind Dog Tag Diaries, a podcast where women in the military share their raw, unfiltered stories. “Everything I learned in athletic training—emphasizing adaptability, constant learning, adjust treatment plans, everything was subject to change. That worked well in ER nursing, the military, and medical missions when I did search and rescue. It gave me this wonderful foundation. The instructors were amazing. They valued teamwork, communication, and collaboration— they’re the keys to having a successful outcome, whether athlete or patient. They prepared me to be part of that team.”
CALLING ALL ATHLETIC TRAINING ALUMNI!
Celebrate AT’s 50th Anniversary during Homecoming Weekend 2025. We’ll honor the past, present, and future of the program during Homecoming Weekend, October 10-12, 2025. Also, Exclusive 50year apparel is available. Stay connected with AT on social media or submit your name and contact information to receive updates. Go to https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/D7T56HK.
GIVE BACK
On this 50 Anniversary year, we invite you to support ESU’s Athletic Training with a gift that ensures the next generation of Warriors are as prepared as the last. To make a gift online, visit https://www.esufoundation.org/athletic-training-50. For personal assistance, please call the ESU Foundation at 570-422-3333 or email esufoundation@esufoundation.org. th
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Plymouth Rock Supports East Stroudsburg University Alumni! Although you have graduated, we know you still have that Warrior spirit in you! Plymouth Rock is proud of our affiliation with ESU Alumni Association. We show our support by saving you an average of $702* on your auto insurance. That’s including your 5%** discount. To find out how you can save more and get access to exclusive benefits, call 844-253-0314 or go to plymouthrock.com/ESU today.
Plymouth Rock Assurance® and Plymouth Rock® are brand names and service marks used by separate underwriting, managed insurance, and management companies that offer property and casualty insurance in multiple states pursuant to licensing arrangements. In NJ, insurance is underwritten by Palisades Safety and Insurance Association, Palisades Insurance Company, High Point Property and Casualty Insurance Company, High Point Safety and Insurance Company, High Point Preferred Insurance Company, Teachers Auto Insurance Company of New Jersey, Twin Lights Insurance Company, Rider Insurance Company, and Palisades Property and Casualty Insurance Company. In PA, insurance is underwritten by Plymouth Rock Assurance Preferred Corporation, Palisades Insurance Company, High Point Preferred Insurance Company, Palisades Property and Casualty Insurance Company, and Rider Insurance Company. Each underwriting and managed insurance company is a separate legal entity that is financially responsible only for its own insurance products. Actual coverage is subject to the language of the policies as issued by each separate company and premiums may vary by purchase method. Some discounts, coverages, payment plans, features and benefits are not available in all states and companies, and premiums may vary by purchase method. *Average annual savings number of $702 was reported by Plymouth Rock customers in multiple states who saved money by switching between 8/1/2023 and 7/31/2024. Your premium may vary due to the state and underwriting company in which your policy is written, available discounts, driving record and other factors. ** New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut affinity group discounts apply to policies written in Palisades Insurance Company and are not available through Independent Agents or Prudential Financial Advisors. If a policy qualifies for an affinity group discount in more than one group, only one affinity group discount will apply. 11471A/042025
CAMPUS NEWS
COMMENCEMENT 2025 BRINGS PROUD SMILES TO MORE THAN 1,000 GRADUATES
Mitchell L. Cordova ’92, Ph.D., was the keynote speaker for the graduate commencement ceremony on May 9, 2025, in Koehler Fieldhouse. Dr. Cordova has served Florida Gulf Coast University for the past 13.5 years. He earned a B.S. in Athletic Training from ESU, an M.A. in Athletic Training from Indiana State University, and a Ph.D. in Biomechanics from The University of Toledo. He also completed the Crisis Leadership in Higher Education certificate program at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government.
term of office commenced in January 2016. Prior to her service as a Supreme Court Justice, Justice Donohue served on the Superior Court of Pennsylvania for eight years.
Christine Donohue ’74 was the keynote speaker for ESU’s two undergraduate commencement ceremonies on May 10, 2025. Justice Christine Donohue serves on the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. Her
A total of 1,086 students received degrees during the three commencement exercises - 818 bachelor’s degrees, 259 master’s degrees and nine doctoral degrees were awarded.
After receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree from ESU, she was employed by SEDA-Council of Governments in Lewisburg as an environmental project coordinator for two years. Justice Donohue moved to Pittsburgh to attend the Duquesne University School of Law where she earned her Juris Doctor degree and served on the Duquesne Law Review.
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CAMPUS NEWS
Natalie Nixon, Ph.D., speaks during the Economic Outlook Summit Photos by Susie Forrester
ESU HOSTS REGION’S ECONOMIC OUTLOOK SUMMIT 2025 Four counties analyze 2024, outlining Vision, Strategy, and Action for the future
ESU’s annual Economic Outlook Summit was held on May 16, 2025, at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions - Poconos. The theme - Vision, Strategy, Action - provided government and business leaders from Carbon, Monroe, Pike, and Wayne counties a forum to analyze the economics of the region in 2024 and look ahead to the coming years. Keynote speaker for the summit was award-winning author Natalie Nixon, Ph.D., CEO of Figure 8 Thinking, LLC. The summit also featured a
business showcase from companies from within each county. According to 2024 scorecard data, the economy of the Poconos continues to grow, with the regional GDP increasing by 8.3 percent, outpacing the national rate. Tourism remains a driving force in the Pocono economy, supporting 38.2 percent of jobs and generating $907.1 million annually in total taxes. To learn more and view the Economic Scorecards of the past 12 years, visit https://www.esu.edu/economic-outlook-summit/scorecard.cfm.
GREEK WEEK FOSTERS SPIRIT OF COMMUNITY AND FRIENDSHIP ESU’s annual Greek Week ran from April 14-
18, 2025, bringing together Greeks from 13 organizations recognized by the university. Greek Week culminated with its annual awards ceremony when Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority and Delta Chi fraternity were named chapters of the year. At left, the sisters of Alpha Omicron Pi sorority celebrate at Field Day.
Photo by Susie Forrester
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CAMPUS BRIEFS PASSHE SELECTS FIORENTINO AS SYSTEM CHANCELLOR Dr. Christopher Fiorentino, interim chancellor and former president of West Chester University, was selected as the chancellor of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) by the Board of Governors. Fiorentino is PASSHE’s sixth chancellor. The announcement was made on April 10, 2025. Dr. Christopher Fiorentino
An educator, economist and highly respected higher education leader, Fiorentino’s career in PASSHE spans 42 years. He began as an assistant professor of economics at West Chester University in 1983, the year the State System was established. Fiorentino held many positions at the university, including department chair, dean, vice president and president. He retired from West Chester University in June and returned to serve as interim chancellor in October.
Fiorentino was appointed following a national search that drew impressive candidates, more than half of whom were current or recent chancellors and presidents. Throughout the nine-month process, the Chancellor Search Committee gathered input from hundreds of students, faculty, staff, trustees, presidents, government officials, union leaders, donors, and other stakeholders. Fiorentino will serve as the State System’s chief executive officer, providing leadership and strategic vision for the state-owned public universities. He succeeds Dr. Daniel Greenstein, who concluded his service to the system on Oct. 11, 2024.
SENIOR CLAIMS FIRST STARTUP CHALLENGE PRIZE Kevin Gardner ’25, a senior majoring in business management from East Stroudsburg, Pa., won the firstplace prize of $10,000 in the inaugural Warrior Startup Challenge. Gardner presented a business plan for Ceiba Café, a holistic hemp-focused café experience, featuring made-to-order infused beverages and dispensary-grade products targeting the Pocono Mountain region.
Sponsored by the ESU Division of Economic Development and Entrepreneurship, the culmination of the challenge was held April 18, 2025, with the top three student finalists presenting their business ideas to a panel of judges. The three-round competition began in November with 29 students from across a variety of majors.
Kevin Gardner ’25
ALUMNA KEYNOTE FOR MLK EVENT, AWARDS PRESENTED ESU’s 28th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr., Celebration Breakfast was held January 20, 2025, at Terraview at Stroudsmoor Country Inn, Stroudsburg, Pa. The morning was highlighted with the presentation of the prestigious MLK Awards.
Edie-King Lawrence ’12
Damali Jackson, a senior majoring in communication from Henryville, Pa., won the MLK Student Award. Lurine Allotey, assistant director in the Center for
Multicultural Affairs and Inclusive Education at ESU, was awarded the Faculty/Staff Award. Educator and gospel recording artist Nadeen Ivers-Edwards was presented the MLK Community Award. Featured Keynote speaker of the event was alumna Edie-King Lawrence ’12, licensed counselor, author and educator.
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FOUNDATION NEWS
WARRIOR ESPORTS ROOM DEDICATION RECOGNIZES DONOR GENEROSITY
East Stroudsburg University’s Warrior Esports Room was dedicated on February 11, 2025, recognizing the generous contributions of Alfredo E. ’03 and Jennifer Garcia, as well as a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Commonwealth Financing Authority, which made the project possible. Located in the Mattioli Recreation Center, the Warrior Esports Room bridges the gap between academics and recreation, providing students with an innovative space for hands-on learning in technology-driven fields. During the event, attendees had the opportunity to view the facility, which includes state-of-the-art gaming computers and a specialized Shoutcasting Room for esports commentators. The space is fully integrated with the McGarry Communications Center, allowing students to gain valuable experience in esports content creation for global audiences. The facility serves as both a competitive gaming hub and a place where students can forge lasting connections while honing skills that will benefit them in their future careers. The dedication featured donor recognition and plaque unveilings, honoring those whose support helped bring the project to life. ESU students demonstrated the room’s capabilities, offering live showcases and insights into how the space enhances both academic and extracurricular opportunities. Follow the QR code to view photos from the Warrior Esports Room Dedication.
Photo by Susie Forrester ESU’s Warrior Esports Room was made possible through the generosity of Alfredo E. ’03 and Jennifer Garcia and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Commonwealth Financing Authority. From left, Jennifer Garcia, Max Garcia, Alfredo E. Garcia ’03, and ESU President Kenneth Long.
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Photos by James Boburka
Panelists during the 16th Annual Scholarship Dinner were, from left, Leslie Wilson ’74, Kovii LaBar, Jay D. Kule, and Ayah Ibrahim.
CELEBRATION SHINES A
SPOTLIGHT
ON STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP SPOTLIGHT, the ESU Foundation’s 16th Annual Scholarship Dinner, was held at Terraview at Stroudsmoor Country Inn on April 2, 2025. Presented by the Pennsylvania State Employees Credit Union, the dinner brought together more than 300 donors and students to celebrate the life-changing impact of scholarships. The evening featured a panel discussion with student scholarship recipients and donors, each sharing their compelling, personal stories of giving and receiving financial support. “It is powerful and inspiring to witness students sharing their goals and gratitude with alumni and friends who are helping to make their dreams a reality,” said Rich Santoro, executive director of the ESU Foundation. “Relationships started tonight will certainly be cherished. It is our honor to shine the spotlight on the impact you have on each other.” In the 2023-24 fiscal year, the ESU Foundation awarded 778 scholarships totaling $1,218,493.79. With the fiscal year closing on June 30, 2025, scholarship support will again surpass $1.2 million, Santoro said. Participants in the program included Kovii LaBar, a junior majoring in art + design with a fine art concentration and psychology from Bangor, Pa., and Leslie Wilson ’74, a philanthropist who has devoted her life and career to advocating for disability inclusion and fostering workplace diversity. LaBar is the recipient of the Leslie Wilson Annual Scholarship established by Wilson. Ayah Ibrahim, a senior majoring in psychology with minors in political science and sport and exercise psychology, shared her passion for education and advocacy. Ibrahim is the recipient of the Hodge Family Endowed Scholarship. Jay Kule, a counselor at East Stroudsburg High School - South, said his passion for education has led to longstanding connections with graduates who continue to inspire him with their life stories. He feels
Jen and Nick Gentile, creators of the Gentile Family Football Meal Plan Annual Scholarship, connect with their student scholarship recipient, Terrell Reynolds, Class of 2027, during the 16th Annual Scholarship Dinner.
there is nothing more rewarding than helping young people connect with their passion and find their purpose in life. Kule established the Jay D. Kule Men’s Basketball Annual Scholarship, Jay D. Kule Football Annual Scholarship, and the Kule/Griffin Family Great Educators Memorial Endowment Scholarship. ESU alumnus Eric Wyatt ’85, the master of ceremonies, reflected on his time at ESU and shared his professional journey since graduating. Follow the QR code to Wyatt established two scholarships with his wife Bonnie, the Eric ‘85 and Bonita experience SPOTLIGHT, ‘86 Wyatt Annual Scholarship and the the 16 Annual Eric ‘85 and Bonita ‘86 Wyatt Endowed Scholarship Dinner. Scholarship. The program also included a musical theater performance from ESU student Bella Smith, Class of 2028. To view the full list of scholarships awarded in 2023-2024 and their recipients, visit https://www. esufoundation.org/spotlight.
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FOUNDATION NEWS
GREAT THINGS TO COME
ACADEMIC AND ATHLETIC-RELATED FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGNS POISED TO IMPROVE THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE Three major fundraising campaigns by the ESU Foundation will have a major impact on athletic programs and students studying in Hospitality, Recreation, and Tourism Management. The Sheska Soccer Stadium Campaign reached its fundraising goal while new campaigns are beginning to taking shape – one to renew both the indoor and outdoor tracks and a second to transform Flagler-Metzgar Center into the Center for Hospitality Excellence.
More than $4.5 million in gifts and pledges have been donated Sheska Soccer Stadium will include a new NCAA regulation soccer for the stadium complex that will be named for Jerry Sheska ’68, field, perimeter fencing, spectator seating, a press box, scoreboard ESU’s men’s soccer coach for 29 years (1982-2010) and women’s and sound system. When complete, it will attract top talent to coach for three (1992-1994). Sheska is the winningest PSAC coach ESU, aid in admissions for student-athletes, and provide a home with 424 wins to his name. sport-specific facility where alumni, family and fans can attend Due to increased project costs, fundraising is ongoing. To games and events. learn more and support the campaign, visit https://www. sheskasoccerstadium.com.
SHESKA SOCCER STADIUM CAMPAIGN
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CENTER FOR HOSPITALITY EXCELLENCE CAMPAIGN Plans are being finalized to create a state-of-the-art facility that will redefine hospitality education and innovation in the Pocono region. Transforming the Flagler-Metzgar Center, ESU will unveil a bold new vision to seamlessly integrate academic rigor with hands-on, real-world experience. When fundraising and construction of the multi-million dollar center is complete, the Center for Hospitality Excellence will equip students with the tools, training, and industry exposure required to thrive in a fast-changing global market. This 15,820 square-foot center will feature a teaching kitchen, boutique dining room, a multi-purpose space, reception area, classrooms, student lounges and event storage facilities. This innovative facility will be at the heart of hospitality education in the Pocono region, serving as a hub for students, faculty, and industry professionals to collaborate, learn, and create. Fundraising campaign details and naming opportunities will be released in the coming months. Questions about the campaign can be directed to the ESU Foundation at 570-422-3333 or email esufoundation@ esufoundation.org.
INDOOR AND OUTDOOR TRACK RENEWAL CAMPAIGN
ESU’s Department of Athletics looks to renovate the outdoor track at Eiler-Martin Stadium and the indoor track in Koehler Fieldhouse. The ESU Foundation’s campaign to fundraise $1 million for the project is under way with a 32-member committee spearheading the effort. Committee chairs for the campaign are former track & field and cross country coaches Joe J. Koch M’88 and Chris Merli. Resurfacing the aging tracks will provide student-athletes with outstanding venues that empower peak performance yearround. The outdoor track will include a new NCAA-compliant surface, fully restored lane markings, upgraded drainage systems, and enhanced safety features. Field event upgrades will include a new pole vault box, rebuilt sand pit, new high jump pit, updated hammer throw cages and a resurfaced javelin throwing area. The indoor track in Koehler Fieldhouse will be revitalized with a smooth, high performance surface and improved markings and safety zones. For more information about the track renewal project and fundraising campaign, contact the ESU Foundation at 570422-3333 or email esufoundation@ esufoundation.org.
ESU FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
2024-2025 Executive Committee MaryEllen Dickey ’80, Chair Chief Philanthropy Officer Da Vinci Science Center Anthony V. Ruiz ’16 Esq., Vice-Chair General Counsel 1440 Foods Alfredo Garcia ’03, Treasurer Senior Partner, Managing Director Snowden Lane Partners Robert Moses, Secretary Retired Director of Residence Life & Housing East Stroudsburg University Board Members Glenn W. Clark ’74, ESU Alumni Association Liaison President Rockwood Programs, Inc. Dr. Anthony L. Drago ’76 E.D., Faculty Liaison Chair and Professor of Psychology East Stroudsburg University George Fields, Jr. ’83 US Army, Retired Sean A. Frazier ’11 C.P.A. Director of Corporate Development Canyon Partners Wendy Jankoski ’82 President and CIO Wealth Architects, LLC Douglas Leonzi ’94 Senior Managing Director Truist Wealth Christopher R. Paradysz ’83 Managing Partner The Advisory Labs, LLC John J. Pekarovsky III, ’07 Council of Trustees Liaison Vice President, Community Bank NA Leslie L. Wilson, ’74 Senior Vice President Workplace Initiatives Disability:IN Eric Wyatt ’85 Senior Vice President Operations and Patient Experience The Joint Corp. Rory Yanchek ’84 CEO Best Energy Reduction Technologies Members Emeriti William B. Cramer, Esq. Legal Counsel and Emerita Attorney, Cramer, Swetz, McManus & Jordan, P.C. Past Chair, served 1987-2001 and 2014-2019 Rosemary Driebe Olofsson Executive Vice President Pocono Pro Foods Past Chair, served 1987-1999 Robert A. Shebelsky Chairman Deputy Real Estate Holdings LLC. Past Treasurer, served 2014-2022 Robert Willever ’75 President Willever Wealth Management Past Chair, served 2014-2022 The ESU Foundation would like to thank the following board members who completed their terms in fiscal year 2023-2024. • Adam S. Stauffer ’00 M’02 • Elizabeth Leigh Smith, Ph.D. • Stephen Somers
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FOUNDATION NEWS
FACULTY GRANTS AWARDED TO ENHANCE STUDENT ACADEMIC EXPERIENCE The ESU Foundation awarded 10 faculty grants in 2024-2025 totaling $9,498. These grants empower faculty members to acquire essential educational resources that enhance the learning experiences for ESU students. The projects funded through the ESU Foundation faculty grants awards for 2024-2025 were: • Dr. Anu Sachdev, Early Childhood & Elementary Education - Context Informed Pedagogy: Living and Learning on the Lenape Land ESU students celebrate Thank A Donor Day, creating videos, photos and written messages of thanks for donors that support scholarship, the Warrior Fund, and many academic and athletic programs. Photos by Susie Forrester
• Dr. Sarah Everett, Department of Communication - Equipment grant for large group radio shows • Dr. Joshua Loomis and Heather Dominguez, Biological Science Department - Improvement of student microscope tools • Dr. Steven Boyer, Chemistry & Biochemistry Phosphazene Ring Synthesis & Functionalization: A Study in Main Group Chemistry
GRATEFUL VIBE OVERTAKES DANSBURY COMMONS PLAZA FOR SECOND ANNUAL THANK A DONOR DAY The East Stroudsburg University Foundation’s Second Annual “Thank A Donor Day” on April 23, 2025, brought students, faculty and staff to Dansbury Commons Plaza to show their gratitude to private donors who have supported the university through financial donations. Students and staff created thank you videos, wrote impact statements, shared personal stories, and relayed their successes and hopes for the future. Their grateful messages highlight the profound influence of scholarships and the lifechanging potential of education.
• Dr. Annie Mendoza, Modern Languages, Philosophy & Religion - 2024 ESU Latino Film Festival • Michelle LaBadie ’90 and Dr. Caroline DiPipiHoy, Special Education & Rehabilitative Services - “Book Study” A Collaborative between ESU and ESASD • Dr. Kelly Harrison and Xue (Stella) Dong, Athletic Training and Art + Media + Design - Create Moveable Anatomy 3D Models for Human Anatomy Education • Dr. Kathleen L. Post ’09 and Dr. Jaclyn Kessel ’12, College of Education - Multi-Tier System of Support (MTSS) for Certification Tests - Test Anxiety & Test Taking Strategies Workshops • Dr. Shawn Watkins, Reading - ESU4KIDS: Outdoor Education
Follow the QR code with your smart device to experience the ESU Foundation’s Second Annual Thank A Donor Day.
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• Dr. Susan Dillmuth-Miller, Communication Sciences and Disorders - Universal Accessible Classrooms • Dr. Gregory Boyce, Chemistry and Biochemistry - Acquisition of a vacuum pump for air-free reactions under inert atmosphere
15 MINUTES to a Better Future
If you want to know how a few moments can make a big difference, we can help you. With a beneficiary designation you can direct significant assets without the formalities of a will. Check with your tax and planning professional first, but we can also provide you with ideas to get started.
Adam S. Stauffer ’00 M’02 and Erin Stauffer
HIGHLIGHTS OF A PAY-ON-DEATH FORM • Complete the form for savings, checking, investment and retirement accounts. • Ask your account administrator for its form • Always do this under the advice and guidance of your planning professional. • If you change your mind, you can change the form. • Let us know if you included the ESU Foundation in your plans so we can thank you and welcome you to The 1893 Society.
The 1893 SOCIETY
Beneficiary Designation Gift Page
Contact us at sspeirs@esufoundation.org or 570-422-3758 to learn how a pay-on-death form can accomplish your goals and wishes. When you provide for your family and favorite causes, you get instant peace of mind.
ALUMNI NEWS
Sierra Lefurgy ’23
Deborah Pride ’98
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD WELCOMES NEW MEMBER, HONORS RETIRING DIRECTORS The ESU Alumni Association Board of Directors welcomed Sierra Lefurgy ’23 as its newest member. Lefurgy received a bachelor’s degree in hotel, restaurant, and tourism management with a minor in event planning. She is the assistant manager of the Pocono Chamber of Commerce and a member of the Monroe Career Pathways Coalition. Lefurgy resides in Long Pond, Pa. Lefurgy joins the board to help strengthen alumni connections and promote opportunities that benefit students and the university community. The
Dan Romagno ’20
board works closely with the Office of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving to keep Warrior alumni engaged and to support scholarships, events, and mentorship initiatives. Board members may serve up to three, three-year terms. The board extends its sincere gratitude to Deborah Pride ’98 and Dan Romagno ’20 for their years of service. Their dedication and contributions have left a lasting impact on the Warrior alumni community. Interested in joining the Alumni Association Board of Directors? Visit esualumni.org/board-of-directors to learn more about serving and making an impact.
As a chapter or affinity group leader, you’ll work directly with the Office of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving to bring alumni together, plan meaningful events, and promote Warrior pride. From event support to promotional tools and alumni giveaways, our office is here to help you succeed. Here’s what’s in it for you: • Leadership opportunities that let you represent ESU in your area or interest group • Support from our team to help with communications, event logistics, and outreach • The chance to strengthen the Warrior network for future generations
LOOKING TO LEAD? YOUR ESU ALUMNI COMMUNITY NEEDS YOU Want to help shape the future of ESU alumni engagement in your area or among fellow Warriors who share your interests? Our newly updated Alumni Chapters and Affinity Groups structure offers just that opportunity. It’s a chance to stay connected and take on a leadership role. Whether you’re organizing local meetups, building professional networks, or celebrating shared experiences, ESU’s alumni network is growing through officially recognized chapters and groups. We are actively seeking leaders who want to get involved. 20 the alumni herald
Current chapters in action We’ve launched chapters in South Jersey, Philadelphia, Bucks/ Montgomery County, and the Lehigh Valley, as well as affinity groups like the Black Alumni Association and the Latinx Alumni Network. These groups have hosted happy hours, tailgates, and created meaningful opportunities for alumni to connect with those who live nearby or share similar backgrounds and interests. Where we’re growing We’re looking to expand into high-interest alumni hubs including Florida, New York City, and Washington, D.C., as well as any area where Warriors are ready to connect. If your region or interest group isn’t represented yet, this is your chance to lead the way. Already have an idea for a group or want to reconnect with Warriors in your community? We’re here to help make it official. Visit esualumni. org/alumni-groups or email alumni@esufoundation.org to learn more and apply.
HOMECOMING WEEKEND 2025
JOIN US FOR THE BIGGEST ALUMNI CELEBRATION OF THE YEAR OCTOBER 10–11, 2025
Vie for the Best Tailgate Award during the All Alumni & University Tailgate.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10
Festivities begin with the Annual Alumni Awards, hosted by the ESU Alumni Association and the Office of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving. The evening will recognize the 2025 recipients of the ESU Alumni Awards.
All Warriors are invited to the All Alumni & University Tailgate from 2-6 p.m. in the parking lot in front of Zimbar-Liljenstein Hall—offering plenty of chances to reconnect and reminisce. The Class of 1975 will commemorate its 50th Reunion from 1-4 p.m. with a special celebration in the Zimbar lobby. Full details and registration information will be available at esualumni.org/homecoming.
CALLING THE CLASS OF 1975 It’s time to celebrate 50 years!
The Class of 1975 will be honored during Homecoming Weekend 2025 as they mark their 50th Reunion. Whether you’ve stayed close to campus or it’s been a while since you’ve visited, we’d love to help you reconnect with classmates and join the festivities. Interested in helping gather your classmates or learning more about the celebration? Email alumni@esufoundation.org or call 570-422-3180.
UPCOMING EVENTS August 1, 2025 Night of Champions Celebrating the 1975 and 2005 Football Teams Camelback Resort, 193 Resort Drive, Tannersville, Pa. Celebration to commemorate the victorious 1975 and 2005 Warriors Football Teams. Information and registration at esufoundation.org or call 570-422-3333. August 2, 2025 Warriors Athletic Golf Outing Supporting Wrestling Green Pond Country Club, Bethlehem, Pa. Information and registration at esufoundation.org or call 570-422-3333. August 23, 2025 Warriors Athletic Golf Outing Supporting Softball Bethlehem Golf Club, Bethlehem, Pa. Information and registration at esufoundation.org or call 570-422-3333. September 5, 2025 ESU Alumni Summer “Fun-Raiser” Whitetail Golf Club, 2679 Klein Rd, Bath, Pa. Details can be found at esualumni.org/nepagolf. September 15, 2025 College of Business Management Golf Outing Skytop Lodge, Skytop, Pa. Information and registration at esufoundation.org or call 570-422-3333. September 21, 2025 Warriors Athletic Golf Outing Supporting Volleyball Glen Brook Golf Club, Stroudsburg, Pa. Information and registration at esufoundation.org or call 570-422-3333.
September 20, 2025 ESU Legacy Family Pinning Ceremony and Reception East Stroudsburg University Celebrating families that have multiple generations of ESU graduates. If your ESU family includes a parent, grandparent, sibling, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew, or cousin, notify the Office of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving at 570-422-3613 to be included in the celebration. October 3, 2025 Warriors Athletic Golf Outing Supporting Baseball Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, Shawnee on Delaware, Pa. Information and registration at esufoundation.org or call 570-422-3333. October 10-11, 2025 Homecoming Weekend 2025 All-Alumni Tailgate, Annual Alumni Awards and Reunion Celebration, including special reunions for the Class of 1975 and alumni from years ending in “0” and “5.” Planning is underway, with details to be announced at esualumni.org. October 30, 2025 Troiani-Sweeney Endowed Lecture Series Niedbala Auditorium, East Stroudsburg University Details and registration will be announced in late summer at esufoundation.org. December 4, 2025 Holidays in Bethlehem Join the Lehigh Valley Alumni Chapter at ESU’s Lehigh Valley Center for a festive evening in Bethlehem Pa. Event details coming soon to esualumni.org.
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ALUMNI NEWS
WARRIORS CONNECTING ALUMNI EVENT ROUND UP DECEMBER 5, 2024
Alumni and friends celebrate the season in Bethlehem, Pa. Alumni and friends spread holiday cheer for all to hear at the Lehigh Valley Chapter’s Holidays in Bethlehem gathering. Chapter Chairs Dawn Ketterman-Benner ’70 and Sean Roth ’16 welcomed attendees to the ESU Lehigh Valley Center for an evening of festive fellowship, warm conversations, and celebration of Warrior pride to close out the year. The evening also included a special recognition for Dawn, honoring her dedicated service as chapter chair as she retired from the role following this event. Holidays in Bethlehem. Pictured left to right: Jessica Ras ‘13, Sean Roth ‘16, Aimee Roth and Tom Petro ‘72.
FEBRUARY 1, 2025
Wrestling alumni reunite for senior day and tri-meet Warrior wrestling alumni gathered on campus for a morning reception before supporting the current team during a tri-meet competition. The
event also marked Senior Day, giving alumni the chance to celebrate the program’s future while honoring its legacy and reconnecting with teammates and coaches.
MARCH 4, 2025
Alumni tee up for Topgolf in Tampa Alumni teed up for a night of fun and connection at Topgolf Tampa. The casual setting offered the perfect blend of competition and conversation as Warriors from across the region shared memories, swapped stories, and celebrated their ESU pride in the Florida sunshine.
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Tampa, Fla., Tee Up. Pictured left to right: Louis Kneeshaw '78, Shelley Speirs '92, Mike Gombita, Susan Miazga-Fisher '88, Cole Waters, Allison Bean '15, Sarah DiGregory '16.
MARCH 6, 2025
Sanibel alumni connect on the coast Held at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille on Sanibel Island, this Warrior Waypoint brought together alumni for a relaxed evening of reconnection. Guests enjoyed casual dining, great conversation, and a shared sense of Warrior pride in a welcoming coastal setting. First row from left: Shelley Speirs ‘92, Lynn Breedy ‘71, Ann Forte, Alena Ridgeway ‘93, Alissa Reinhardt-Swasey ‘92, Cynthia Hickox ‘90. Second row from left: Chris Butler, Tim Brown ‘81, William Forte ‘69, Paul Johnson ‘89, Frank Johnson ‘74, Maureen Shields ‘83, and Mike Gombita.
MARCH 29, 2025
Ping pong sparks connection in D.C. Alumni rallied at SPIN D.C. for an energetic night of ping pong, networking, and Warrior pride. The lively venue offered a fun and interactive atmosphere, where guests connected over games and shared memories from their time at ESU.
Pictured, from left: Olivia Slocum, Patrick Myers ‘09, Margaret Anthony ‘67, Priscilla Ro, Theo Harkness ‘09, Debbie Gebhardt ‘69, Brandon Younkin ‘14, Darlene Myers ‘78 and Fred Myers.
APRIL 26, 2025
Warriors gather in Philadelphia for brews and bonds Alumni filled Yards Brewing Company in Philadelphia with Warrior pride for a springtime gathering hosted by the ESU Alumni Association. Chapter Chair Ashley Johnson ’08 welcomed guests for an evening of local fare, good company, and the chance to strengthen their ties to the university community. Philly Happy Hour: First row from left: Henry Kearns '70, Pennie Kearns, Karen Giglio '66, John Turella '13, Michelle Keating Sibel '00. Second row from left: Kathleen Pinkow ’91, Megan McLaughlin '92, Jill Cortazzo '94, Melissa Neves '85, Garrett Bateman '12. Third row from left: Ricki Voorhees, Alan Neves, Todd Scott '13, Mark Malfara '98. Fourth row from left: Ashley Johnson '08, Keith Johnson, and Frank McLaughlin '91.
APRIL 12, 2025
Field hockey alumni celebrate Warrior tradition ESU’s field hockey alumni came back to campus for a day of celebration and camaraderie. With a strong turnout and a scrimmage that showcased both skill and spirit, the event highlighted the lasting bonds among former Warriors.
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WARRIOR SPIRIT
WARRIORS BASEBALL REACHES FIRST DII COLLEGE WORLD SERIES The ESU baseball team won its first-ever NCAA Division II Atlantic Region championship, punctuating a standout winter and spring for Warriors athletics. After starting its season at the USA Baseball Complex in Cary, N.C., the program returned almost four months later with a regional trophy and the chance to play for a national championship. ESU was unbeaten in five NCAA Tournament games leading up to the trip to Cary, and had one of the moments of the tourney when school record-setter Jack Rothenhausler won an elimination game vs. Northwood (Mich.) with a walk-off grand slam in the ninth inning for a 9-6 victory. The Warriors got there thanks in part to another dramatic grand slam, this one by Dennis Pierce, the previous weekend at Creekview Park. Tied 3-3 with two outs in the top of the 11th inning vs. Seton Hill, Pierce launched the 18th of his ESU single-season record 19 home runs for a 7-3 lead that the Warriors closed out to punch their ticket to Cary with a 2-0 series win. They knocked out Fairmont State and West Chester in the regional’s first weekend. ESU (41-16) was in the NCAA Tournament for the fourth straight year and seventh time overall under 18th-year head coach John Kochmansky, who earned his 500th career win this spring and was named the ABCA Atlantic Region Coach of the Year.
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Pierce and Rothenhausler were two of four All-Region and six All-PSAC East selections. Pierce, a PA native and outfielder who was All-America in 2024 at Valdosta State (Ga.), was named to the ABCA All-America third team, hitting .368 with a .471 on-base percentage and .758 slugging percentage. He shattered the previous school record of 12 home runs, hitting 19, and had 67 hits, 32 total extra-base hits, 67 RBI and 56 runs. Rothenhausler set nearly every ESU offensive career record – hits (238), home runs (26), doubles (68), extra-base hits (97), total bases (390), times reached base (369), RBI (199), hit by pitch (49) and games played (213). As a senior, he was D2CCA All-Region first team, ABCA and NCBWA second team, and All-PSAC East first team at third base, hitting .328/.449/.623 with 60 hits, 21 doubles, 11 homers and a school-record 72 RBI. Senior closer Caden Parker was the standout back end of a deep pitching staff, earning NCBWA first team and D2CCA second team All-Region honors. He had 22 career saves in two seasons, 10 this year, with a 0.71 ERA in 25.1 innings. Junior pitcher Ethan Woods was ABCA second team All-Region and joined Parker on the All-PSAC East first team, going 5-2 with a 2.19 ERA. Junior Ryan Dewees (8-3, 69.2 innings, 16 starts) and sophomore Peyton Brannock (7-3, 57.0 innings, 13 starts) led the Warriors pitchers in starts and innings. Outfielder Shanley Wall, second baseman Walker Zampella and first baseman Parker Frey, all juniors, were also offensive stalwarts. Wall (.328 average, 62 hits, 43 walks, 53 runs, 21 stolen bases) and Zampella (.269 average, 47 hits, 27 walks, 35 stolen bases) were both second team All-PSAC East. Frey (.345 average, 46 RBI) led the Warriors with 68 hits, and went to another level in the final six weeks of the season, including going 5-for-9 in the two-game sweep of Seton Hill in the regional final.
STANDOUTS DAVENPORT, WEIRICH EARN HARDWARE FOR SOFTBALL’S FIRST PSAC TITLE SINCE 1980 Sophomore pitcher Sarah Davenport and senior outfielder Abigail Weirich helped lead ESU’s softball team to its first PSAC championship since 1980, a school-record 48 wins and the NCAA Atlantic Region’s top seed in a historic campaign. The Warriors made their third straight NCAA Tournament and fourth in five years, finishing 48-12-1. They went 4-1 in the PSAC Tournament, beating IUP 1-0, Shepherd 10-5 and Slippery Rock 8-0 to reach the championship round. After falling 3-0 to Shepherd, they rebounded with a decisive 10-2 victory to lift the trophy. Head coach Jaime Wohlbach was named PSAC East Coach of the Year for the second straight season.
57 runs and 41 stolen bases. She set school records for total bases (127) and extra-base hits (28), career records for RBI (157) and stolen bases (125) and ranks second all-time in hits (213) and runs (154). She compiled a 19-game hitting streak this spring. Junior catcher Delaney Ridgell (.348, 10 HR, school-record 62 RBI, 42 runs) was first team All-PSAC East and All-Region. Senior second baseman Tatum Kresley hit .406, fourth-best in school history, and set school records with 86 hits and 63 runs to earn first team All-Conference and second team All-Region. Senior outfielder Katie Master had a school-record 19 career home runs. Abigail Weirich
Sarah Davenport
Davenport earned repeat All-America honors, named to the first team by the NFCA and second team by D2CCA, and repeated as D2CCA Atlantic Region Pitcher of the Year. She went 32-4 with a 1.51 ERA and 393 strikeouts in 246.1 innings in the circle, leading DII in wins, strikeouts and complete games (29). She had eight games with 15+ strikeouts, including 16 vs. IUP in the PSAC Tournament and vs. Bowie State in the NCAA Tournament, tossed two perfect games and no-hit Lock Haven. Weirich was named PSAC East and D2CCA Atlantic Region Athlete of the Year, batting .398 with a .617 slugging percentage, 82 hits, 61 RBI,
Dennis Pierce
Jack Rothenhausler
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WARRIOR SPIRIT
MEN’S TRACK & FIELD EARNS FIRSTEVER PSAC TITLE
Junior Anthony Voto was the PSAC Outdoor Championships CoOutstanding Athlete. He won the weight throw indoors, hammer throw outdoors, and was second team All-America indoors.
The Warriors won their first PSAC championship in men’s track and field, dominating the conference’s outdoor meet in May at Slippery Rock after finishing runner-up 19 times – 11 times since 2009, including this indoor season.
Two javelin standouts, graduate student Chris Fredricks (3rd in DII) and freshman Luke Stevenosky (7th) were first team All-America, with Stevenosky winning the PSAC title.
ESU had six individual PSAC champions, six national qualifiers and four All-America athletes, led by senior Cole Gorham, who closes his career as a four-time PSAC champion and five-time All-America. Gorham finished second in DII in the shot put indoors and third outdoors, winning both PSAC championships, along with claiming second team All-America in the discus. He was named USTFCCA Atlantic Region Field Athlete of the Year for both the indoor and outdoor seasons, and earned a spot on the PSAC’s Winter Top 10 list for academic and athletic achievement. Cole Gorham
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Senior Jack Gorham was PSAC champion in the triple jump indoors and long jump outdoors. The Warriors also won both PSAC high jump titles, junior Daniel Smith indoors and freshman Peter Stanislavsky outdoors. Stanislavsky and sophomore long jumper Bryson Gilchrist were national qualifiers. Fourth-year head coach Justin Germani, in his ninth season at ESU overall, was named USTFCCA Atlantic Region Men’s Outdoor Coach of the Year. Longtime assistant coach Jim Morrison was named the region’s men’s assistant coach of the year in both seasons for his work with Gorham and Voto in the throws. Anthony Voto
Chris Fredericks
WOMEN’S TRACK & FIELD NETS FIVE PSAC CHAMPIONS
Porschia Bennett
Shannon Harnett
Freshman Shannon Harnett led several standout performances, sweeping PSAC titles in the triple jump and adding the outdoor high jump championship. She was the PSAC Indoor Field Athlete of the Year and the PSAC Outdoor Championships Outstanding Field Athlete. Sophomore Porschia Bennett was All-America in the high jump, placing third at the NCAA Outdoor Championships, and was the PSAC indoor champion. Harnett was also a national qualifier in the outdoor high jump. Senior Samiyah Little defended her PSAC titles in the weight throw indoors and hammer throw outdoors, finishing as a four-time conference champion. Indoors, freshman Riley Trentowski (800m) and sophomore Payton Falkenstein (5000m) were PSAC champs. Falkenstein also helped the cross country team to its first NCAA Championships appearance since 1999 in the fall. ESU was third in the PSAC indoors and fourth outdoors.
Abby Simonetti
ALL-AMERICA KAUFFMAN, SIMONETTI PACE LACROSSE TO 8TH STRAIGHT NCAA TOURNAMENT Freshman attack Sadie Kauffman and senior goalkeeper Abby Simonetti earned All-America honors for ESU women’s lacrosse, which continued its standard of excellence with a 15-6 season and reached the NCAA Tournament second round under head coach Xeni Barakos-Yoder ’11, who improved to 138-44 (.758) in 10 seasons. Kauffman was first team IWLCA All-America and second team by USA Lacrosse, with Simonetti named first team by USA Lacrosse and second team by the IWLCA. She was also the PSAC East Defensive Athlete of the Year.
Sadie Kauffman
Kauffman set school records for goals (103, 3rd in DII) and points (128, 4th in DII), netted at least four goals in 18 of ESU’s 21 games, and had 23 goals across four postseason games. Simonetti, last year’s IWLCA DII Goalkeeper of the Year, led DII in save percentage (.560) for the second straight season. Sophomore defender Molly Atwell also earned first team All-PSAC East All-Region honors. Junior midfielder Lauren Hallman (1st team All-PSAC East, 38 goals, 14 assists) and sophomore attack Ariana Tucci (2nd team All-PSAC East, 51 goals, 19 assists) were also named All-Region, and senior defender Taylor Vara and junior defender Emily Varilla were allconference. esualumni.org 27
WARRIOR SPIRIT
Marketa Beladova
WOMEN’S TENNIS HAS RECORD 18 WINS IN TURNAROUND SEASON Graduate student Marketa Beladova was named PSAC East Athlete of the Year, going 16-2 overall and 7-0 at No. 1 singles in conference action, to lead ESU to its first PSAC semifinal appearance since 1980. The Warriors went 18-7 overall and had their best campaign since the 2009-10 team was 14-9 and reached the NCAA Tournament. Head coach Troy Haas was PSAC East Coach of the Year in his second year; the Warriors were 2-34 in the previous four seasons before his appointment. Freshman Lea Stefanovic, 14-4 at No. 2, was also first team All-PSAC East in singles, and Beladova and graduate student Louise Boyer-Vidal went 13-4 in doubles (6-0 at No. 1 in the division) to gain first team honors. Ariel Kelsick was PSAC East Freshman of the Year with a 20-9 mark, 6-1 in the division, mostly at No. 4.
Lakeem McAliley
MEN’S BASKETBALL RETURNS TO NCAA TOURNAMENT ESU was 21-9 and made its eighth NCAA Tournament trip, second in the last three seasons, under head coach Jeff Wilson ’86 M’92, who finished the season with 427 wins, third-most in PSAC history. Senior forward Lakeem McAliley was named NABC and D2CCA AllRegion for the second straight year and followed teammate Carlos Pepin as a participant in the King’s Hawaiian Slam Dunk Contest. He closed his career second at ESU with 1,979 points, third with 212 steals and 10th with 667 rebounds. He averaged 18.2 points and 5.2 rebounds as a senior. Senior guard/forward Cam Young (11.5 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 78 steals, 17 blocks) joined McAliley on the All-PSAC East first team and was named PSAC East Defensive Athlete of the Year. Guard Evan Morton (13.9 ppg) was PSAC East Freshman of the Year.
CHMIEL NAMED ALL-AMERICA FOR WOMEN’S BASKETBALL Senior center Emily Chmiel became ESU’s fourth All-America selection in women’s basketball and first since Stacy Perryman in 1995, earning D2CCA second team and WBCA honorable mention status. She was also first team All-PSAC East and All-Region. Chmiel averaged 22.3 points (5th in DII), 12.3 rebounds (3rd) and led the nation with 24 double-doubles. She scored 625 points, breaking Perryman’s record of 571, and grabbed 344 rebounds, third in ESU’s record book. Chmiel scored 30+ points four times, including a 37-point, 15-rebound game vs. Lock Haven. Guard Brie Droege was PSAC East Freshman of the Year with 11.1 points per game, including 14.3 in divisional games. 28 the alumni herald
Emily Chmiel
BAUBLITZ 3RD IN NATION FOR WOMEN’S WRESTLING Redshirt senior Tiffani Baublitz placed third at 160 pounds at the NCWWC championships for ESU’s top national finish. The Warriors had 11 national qualifiers, also the most in program history. Baublitz compiled an 86-16 career record and earned her third career All-America honor. She was previous third competing for King (Tenn.) in 2023. She was also fourth at 72kg at the US Open National Championships, and first in the Senior Pan-American Championships in Monterrey, Mexico. ESU finished 16th in DII, second in the region, and won the PA championship for the third straight year. Joining Baublitz as regional champions were sophomore Olivia Klein (103), senior Emily Klein (110) and sophomore Jackeline Ramos-Oviedo (131). Additional national qualifiers were senior Alanna Barberio (110), freshman Olivia Palmer (117), senior Waverly KaneLong (124), senior Zoe Gress (131), sophomore Ruth Ansah (138), junior Gianna Amendola (138) and freshman Selina Moore (145).
RENSHOF IS FIRST PSAC WOMEN’S SWIMMING CHAMP SINCE 1979 Junior Vera Renshof won the PSAC championship in the 200 free, ESU’s first conference title since 1979, in a school-record 1:51.23. Sophomore Anique Hazebrook was third in the 1650 free, and ESU was eighth of 12 in the conference for its best team finish since 2002.
AMAZON.COM/ESUWARRIORS
WARRIORS EARN BEST-EVER NCAA, PSAC ALL-DEPARTMENT FINISHES ESU finished 31st among more than 300 NCAA Division II schools for its best-ever finish in the division’s Learfield Trophy standings, and was third in the PSAC’s Dixon Trophy to match its top finish, achieved last year. Seven Warriors teams were selected for their respective NCAA title – Baseball (4th straight, first-ever Regional championship), Men’s Basketball (2nd in 3 years), Women’s Cross Country (first since 1999), Field Hockey (9th straight), Football (2nd straight), Women’s Lacrosse (8th straight) and Softball (4th in 5 years). ESU also earned points in individual events in men’s and women’s track and field. In the PSAC, ESU won conference titles this spring in Softball and Men’s Outdoor Track & Field, and earned runner-up point totals in Field Hockey, Men’s Cross Country and Men’s Indoor Track & Field.
WARRIORS GEAR ON AMAZON! esualumni.org 29
WARRIOR SPIRIT
The resurfaced tennis courts at Wolbers Courts.
SIGNIFICANT USTA GRANT FUNDING PROVIDES WOLBERS COURTS RENOVATIONS
ESU’s Wolbers Tennis Courts received a much-needed facelift, along with the addition of three new courts, thanks to a $200,000 Tennis Venue Services grant from the United States Tennis Association (USTA) and an additional $20,000 contributed by USTA Middle States. The grant funds, totaling $220,000, were used towards the renovation of the Wolbers Tennis Courts, which are the home of ESU’s women’s tennis team. The project, which includes the reconstruction of the facility’s existing three courts and the addition of three new courts, was be completed this summer. In addition to being utilized by the women’s tennis team, the university plans to partner with USTA Middle States and the local tennis community to launch public programming. The significant funding was made possible by the expansion of the USTA’s Tennis Venue Services grant program this year, earmarking $10 million to support tennis infrastructure to meet the increasing demand 30 the alumni herald
for tennis courts as tennis participation continues to rise nationwide. The $200,000 grant marks the largest USTA investment in a single project as part of the expanded TVS grant program. ESU’s Department of Athletics worked in collaboration with the ESU Foundation in applying for the grant. “We are incredibly grateful to the USTA and USTA Middle States for their generous support of East Stroudsburg University and our women’s tennis program,” said Dr. Allen Snook, Director of Athletics at ESU. “This investment will not only elevate the experience for our studentathletes, but it will also allow us to engage with the broader community and expand access to the game of tennis. The renovated Wolbers Tennis Courts will become a hub for competition, instruction, and community programming, and we’re excited for the future of tennis at ESU.”
ATHLETICS GIVING DAY
24-HOUR CAMPAIGN RESULTS IN SUCCESS FOR WARRIORS ATHLETICS PROGRAMS More than $30,000 in gifts of support for ESU’s Athletics programs were received during the first-ever Athletics Giving Day on April 9, 2025. The collaborative effort between the ESU Foundation and Department of Athletics lasted 24 hours and garnered over 300 supporters, including alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends of the university. Athletics Giving Day was created to highlight the importance of athletics at ESU and to provide student-athletes with the resources they need to thrive. The initiative focused on engaging the university community and emphasizing the role athletics plays in promoting leadership, discipline, teamwork and school spirit. “Thank you to all the individuals who made this day successful,” said Dr. Allen Snook, Director of Athletics at ESU. “The gifts we received will continue to fuel the Warrior experience and allow us to support both current and future students in the Warrior family. We could not be happier with the results of our department’s first-ever day of giving. Thank you all once again and go Warriors!”
All funds raised will go directly toward enhancing the experience of student-athletes across ESU’s 22 NCAA Division II varsity sports. Contributions will help address a wide range of needs, including athletic equipment, training and recovery tools, team travel, academic and wellness support, and recruitment efforts. The support also plays a crucial role in developing strong team cultures and ensuring studentathletes are positioned for success both during and after their collegiate careers. The day’s success was a true testament to the power of collaboration. Coaches, teams and Foundation staff rallied together with a shared goal, combining strategic outreach and a strong social media presence to energize the Warrior community. From personalized appeals to creative digital engagement, their collective effort brought visibility and momentum to the campaign, making this inaugural event a meaningful and memorable milestone for ESU athletics. “Athletics Giving Day is a testament to the strength and dedication of our community,” said Rich Santoro, ESU Foundation executive director. “It serves as a meaningful opportunity to invest in the future of our student-athletes. The support we receive enhances the student-athlete experience, strengthens our programs, and helps us remain focused on long-term growth and excellence.”
STUDENT-ATHLETES SHINE THROUGH YOUR SUPPORT “Wearing the Warrior jersey is a privilege I don’t take lightly. It’s a blessing to represent a university that values academics first and truly supports its students. I’m incredibly grateful for the donors who make this experience possible. Their generosity allows many student-athletes, including myself, to pursue our passions without the overwhelming burden of financial stress. If I could personally thank them, I’d say: Your dedication to ESU doesn’t just impact athletes—it shapes future leaders. Your support is deeply appreciated and truly makes a difference.” Daniel Smith '26 Men’s Track & Field ESU Scholastic Achievement Award, Track GIA Men Athletic Scholarship
BE PART OF A LIFE-CHANGING STORY. Support ESU’s student-athletes through a gift of scholarship. Contact the ESU Foundation at esufoundation@esufoundation.org or call 570-422-3333. esualumni.org 31
CLASS NOTES
’72
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’85
’88 1980s
SUSEN EDWARDS ’72 released her second novel, Lookin’ for Love, in October 2024 through She Writes Press. Inspired by a true story, the novel follows Ava, a young mother who escapes an abusive marriage only to become entangled in the dangerous world of drug smuggling. After a harrowing prison sentence in Kenya, Ava embarks on a journey toward sobriety, faith and the transformative power of forgiveness.
’84
1970s
’68
KEN DAVIS ’68 was honored this year by the Pottstown School District in Pottstown, Pa., with a permanent tribute to his legendary coaching career: the basketball court inside Strom Gymnasium now bears his name. Davis led the Pottstown boys varsity basketball team from 1980 to 1997, compiling a 374-101 record, including a staggering 151-10 mark in Pioneer Athletic Conference play. Under his leadership, the Trojans captured eight PAC titles, eight district championships, and the school’s first-ever state title in 1993. Davis, now 80 and living in State College, returned to Pottstown for the dedication ceremony, joined by family, former players, and community members.
’76
MAURY MOLIN ’76 was inducted into the East Stroudsburg Meritorious Hall of Fame. Established in 2002, the program honors individuals who bring honor and prestige to the East Stroudsburg Area School District and its community. MIKE KRAUSE ’78 was inducted into the Parkland High School Hall of Fame in Allentown, Pa.
1960s
’68
FRANCES MCSPEDON ’68 has been enjoying retirement for nearly 30 years. She stays connected by catching up with friends and classmates over the phone and spends her free time watching television.
1940s
’46
RUTH DEVLIN ’46 recently turned 100-years-old. After graduating, Ruth taught health and physical education in Jeffersonville, N.Y., and in the Allegheny School District in Pittsburgh. She is proud of her ESU education and her six children, 15 grandchildren, and 21 great grandchildren.
MIKE REICHENBACH ’84 was inducted into the 2025 Lehigh Valley-Pocono Sports Hall of Fame. He played linebacker for coach Buddy Ryan’s famed 46 defense with the Eagles from 1986 to 1989 after joining the Philadelphia Eagles in 1984. He concluded his NFL career playing for the Miami Dolphins from 1990 to 1991 under Hall of Fame coach Don Shula. ERIC WYATT ’85 is the new senior vice president of operations and patient experience with The Joint Corp. Headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., The Joint Corps. is the nation’s largest operator, manager and franchisor of chiropractic clinics through The Joint Chiropractic network. In his role, Wyatt is tasked to oversee clinic operations, improve quality and economics of clinics, and elevate the patient experience. MARY ELLEN MATTHEWS ’88 has been the official Saturday Night Live photographer since 1999, creating the show’s iconic bumper portraits. In 2025, she released The Art of the SNL Portrait, a book featuring more than 200 of her favorite works.
’90
SGT. JEFFREY LUTTE ’90 retired after 20 years of dedicated service with the Bethlehem Police Department in Bethlehem, Pa.
’90
’91
MARK WETHERHOLD ’90 was appointed to the board of the West Branch Valley Association of Realtors in Williamsport, Pa. He also founded a golf outing to benefit women’s shelters in Lycoming and Clinton counties.
’94
GARY LIGUORI ’94 was named chancellor of Penn State Abington in Abington, Pa. He previously served as provost at the University of West Florida and brings extensive experience in academic leadership and
research oversight.
’95
DR. CLAUDIO CERULLO ’95 is a nationally recognized expert in anti-bullying and school violence prevention. He is the founder of Teach AntiBullying Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to safer schools. He authored Inside the Mind of a Bully: From Victim to Advocate and was honored with Lehigh Valley Style’s Influential Men of the Year, Philly Current’s spotlight on his “Sneakers for Smiles” initiative, and the Philadelphia 76ers’ “Hero Among Us” award.
’98
JENNIFER SKYES ’98 is the head varsity girls field hockey coach at Guilderland High School in Guilderland Center, N.Y. She led her team to its first New York state title game, third conference championship, first regional championship and was named 2024 MAX Field Hockey New York State Coach of the Year. esualumni.org 33
1990s
PAUL MINITER ’91 rejoined the American Association for Respiratory Care as vice president of business development and sponsorships. He previously served as vice president of education for the American Academy of CME Inc. in Jackson, N.J.
’94
ANTHONY J. VIOLA ‘94, PH.D. published his third novel, The Law of Devil’s Land. The story follows Ghonna “Gyle,” a 17-yearold outcast navigating a post-apocalyptic society. To escape the Lower Ranks, Ghonna competes in the brutal Imperial Events—a dangerous blend of the Olympics, X Games and Roman gladiatorial combat. As the competition intensifies, Ghonna’s ingenuity and resilience transform them from a pariah into a messianic figure leading a secret reform movement.
1980s
’88
SANDY MILLER M’88 was inducted into the National Field Hockey Coaches Association Hall of Fame in January 2025. She has led ESU’s field hockey program for 40 seasons, securing two NCAA Division II championships and four PSAC titles. With more than 500 career wins, she ranks third all-time in Division II history.
’02
DAN PARADISO ’02 was appointed vice president of commercial strategy at Makeready in Dallas, Texas. He brings more than 20 years of experience in sales and marketing at branded and independent hotels around the world.
’03
JENNIFER SIMPSON CARR ’05 has been named to the Lawdragon Global 100 Leaders in Legal Strategy and Consulting for the sixth consecutive year. Carr serves as vice president of strategic development at Furia Rubel Communications, based in Pennsylvania and New Jersey where she leads business development and digital marketing efforts.
BIRTHS Liz Drywa Sapudar '11 and her husband Taylor welcomed their son Jack August, in October 2024. The family resides in Allentown, N.J.
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2010s
’05
JARED WISE ’03 was named chief risk officer at Penn State University. He previously served as the university’s insurance program manager and serves as president of the Nittany Insurance Company.
’07
KYLEE ROONEY ’07, SHRMCP, was named the 2024 Mentor of the Year by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Foundation in Alexandria, Va. She serves as director of talent acquisition at Morgan Properties and is recognized for her dedication to mentoring.
’08
MARCOS TIRADO ’08 was appointed assistant principal at Celebration High School in Osceola County, Fla., for the 2024– 25 academic year.
’09
JOE CAVISTON ’09 was promoted to director of marketing and communications at Central Penn College in Enola, Pa., where he has served on the college’s advancement and marketing teams for more than a decade.
’18
ZACHARY KRIEGER ’18 was appointed head coach of men’s and women’s cross country at Greensboro College in Greensboro, N.C. A former all-conference athlete at ESU, he brings NCAA Division II and III coaching experience.
2000s
’99
JOSEPH WYSOKINSKI ’99 has been named director of maintenance in the Department of Maintenance at St. Mary’s County Public Schools in Leonardtown, Md. He had been serving as acting director of maintenance and brings extensive experience in facility management and operations.
SEND US YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE FORM esualumni.org/class-note EMAIL alumni@esufoundation.org NOTE: We publish alumni accomplishments and news of marriages and births, but not engagements or pregnancies. Please note the editorial staff makes every effort to publish the information submitted as it was received.
MEMORIAM FENO S. VOLPE
MARCH 26, 2025 Feno S. Volpe was a retired associate professor of physical education at ESU. Volpe earned his undergraduate degree from SUNY Cortland and his master’s degree in secondary school administration from Teachers College at Columbia University. He later completed a Directorship Certification in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation at New York University. Volpe joined the ESU faculty in 1969. In addition to teaching, he served as Acting Coordinator of Student Teaching in Health and Physical Education, assistant football coach, and freshman football coach. He was active in campus life, serving on numerous committees, including the Library and Social Committee, chairing the Student/Faculty Judicial Board, and acting as president of the ESU/ Community Art Association, where he received the Outstanding Service Award. He was the beloved husband of Corinne L. Volpe. He is survived by two children: Michael Volpe and Geryl Kinsel of East Stroudsburg, Pa.
JOHN (JACK) PHILIP CHILDS III ’67
MARCH 11, 2025 John (Jack) Philip Childs ‘67, 80, was a 1995 inductee to the ESU Athletic Hall of Fame. Childs earned letters in football, wrestling and track and field for the Warriors and was the head wrestling coach at Drexel University for 35 years. He was the active Division I leader in career coaching wins with 421 before his retirement in 2011. Across his coaching career at Drexel and Stevens Tech, he compiled over 500 wins. Childs was a four-time East Coast Wrestling Association Coach of the Year and the Colonial Athletic Association Co-Coach of the Year. He was inducted into both the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and the Drexel Athletics Hall of Fame. He also served as president of the National Wrestling Coaches Association, worked at the NCAA Wrestling National Championships, and was a board member of the Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association. Childs resided in Wayne, Pa. He is survived by his wife Anne, sons Jesse and Michael, and a daughter, Beth Cummings.
MARK J. KILKER, PH.D.
FEBRUARY 15, 2025 Mark J. Kilker, 72, of Saylorsburg, Pa., joined the ESU faculty in 1981 where he became the chairperson of the Nursing Department and the Dean of the College of Health Sciences. Kilker earned his bachelor’s of science degree in nursing from Trenton State College. He later received his master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania, and a Doctorate of Education from Teachers College, Columbia University. While earning his advanced degrees, Kilker worked as a registered nurse at Pocono Hospital in East Stroudsburg, Pa. Kilker is survived by his wife, Kathleen M. Kilker, and daughters Meghan Mendez, Bridget Rybacki, and son Mark Kilker. He was preceded in death by his daughter Colleen in 2002.
YVONNE T. SWEENEY ’78 MAY 3, 2025 Yvonne T. Sweeney ’78 of Mountain Top, Pa., is honored every fall at ESU through the Troiani-Sweeney Endowed Lecture Series sponsored through the College of Health Sciences and the ESU Foundation. Following ESU, Sweeney earned her master’s degree in nursing education from Villanova University. Her professional career was marked by compassion and leadership. She served as nurse manager at the Burn Center at Lehigh Valley Hospital, director of nursing at Franklin Square Hospital, and most recently, at Albert Einstein Medical Center. She was a devoted member of Saint Mary, Our Lady Help of Christians Parish, and was involved with St. Jude’s Parish, where she served on the Pastoral Council and participated in the Parent Teacher Guild. Yvonne is survived by her husband, Christopher Sweeney Jr.; sons, Christopher Sweeney III and Michael P. Sweeney. She is the sister of Linda L. Niedbala ’83 and R. Sam Niedbala ’82 who established the endowed lecture series in her honor.
DONOVAN J. SWASEY
MAY 17, 2025 Donovan J. Swasey, 18, was a freshman computer science major from Metuchen, N.J. He was a resident in Sycamore Hall, a member of the Men’s Rugby Team and the Outdoor Club and participated in the LSAMP program.
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MEMORIAM ROBERT ACKERMAN, PH.D., AND GRETCHEN A. (PUTZ) ACKERMAN JUNE 3, 2025
Dr. Robert J. Ackerman, 74, joined the ESU faculty in 1984 in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders and taught at ESU for 34 years, retiring in 2018. Dr. Ackerman was part of the group of faculty who developed and implemented the graduate program, served as graduate coordinator, and established a relationship between ESU and Shenyang University in China. He received emeritus status when he retired. Ackerman and his wife Gretchen A. (Putz) Ackerman, 75, were married 51 years and were parents to five children. Dr. Ackerman was born in North Towanda, N.Y. He earned his Ph.D. from Kansas State University. Gretchen was born in Pensacola, Fla. She earned her master’s degree from ESU. Both were life-long educators. Robert and Gretchen are survived by their children, Karl S. Ackerman ’02 of Boone, Iowa; Monika L. Arvin of Des Moines, Iowa; Katherine E. Ackerman of Nazareth, and Frederick J. Ackerman of Bangor. They were predeceased by their son, Josef C. Ackerman.
CLARENCE JOHN MURPHY, PH.D. JUNE 7, 2025
Clarence John Murphy, Ph.D., 91, was professor emeritus of chemistry at ESU. He was a faculty member in the chemistry department from 1969 until 1998 and served as the first department chair from 1969 to 1984. A proud moment of his time at ESU was obtaining American Chemical Society certification for the chemistry department. “Murph”, as he was known to his family and friends, obtained a Bachelor of Science in chemistry in 1955 and a Master of Science in 1957 from the University of New Hampshire. He earned his Ph.D. in chemistry from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1960. Murph was an associate professor at Ithaca College 1961 to1969. During his career, he also had visiting research scientist positions at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cornell University, St. Anselm’s College in Manchester NH, and Lehigh University. In 1999, he and his wife Betty established the Clarence J. Murphy Science and Society Lecture Fund at ESU to support a series of lectures on the interactions of science and society. Murph is survived by Elizabeth “Betty” Schuler, his wife of over 64 years, daughters Lisa Vail of Pagosa Springs, Colo., Kathy Hogan of Saylorsburg, Pa., and Constance Murphy of Arden N.C.
PETER NEAL KIDMAN, PH.D. FEBRUARY 11, 2025
DAVID CHESTER JOHNSON, PH.D. JULY 5, 2025
David Chester Johnson, Ph.D., was ESU’s Dean of Arts and Sciences from 1969-1976. Johnson’s career included founding the Department of Sociology at Luther College, where he taught from 1957-1969, St. Cloud State University Vice President for Academic Affairs 1976-1983, Gustavus Adolphus College Dean of the College 1983-1990, and Chancellor of the University of Minnesota Morris (UMM) 1990-1998. During his career, Johnson was the recipient of a National Science Foundation Science Faculty Fellowship to the Norwegian Institute for Alcohol Research in Oslo, a Kennedy Fellowship for research on immigration to Sweden, and the presidency of the Elder Learning Institute. He was preceded in death by wife Jean (Lunnis) Johnson and son Andy. He is survived by his son Stephen and daughter Jennifer.
36 the alumni herald
Peter Neal Kidman, 83, was a professor at ESU in the Political Science Department and served as the Dean of Arts and Sciences from 1983-1988. Kidman attended Arizona State University, where he graduated with his bachelor’s degree in 1963. He earned his Master’s (1965) and Doctorate (1971) degrees from West Virginia University. Between his MA and Ph.D., he began an internship that led to a full-time staff position in the West Virginia’s Governor’s Office. Early in his academic career, Peter taught briefly at Penn State, Arkansas State and Murray State University before coming to teach at ESU before from where he retired in 2002.
ALUMNI RICHARD G. ABDALLA ‘74 DIANE L. ALDRETE ‘86 EDNA S. ARMSTRONG ‘53 JUDITH A. BARSAM ‘65 JOHN H. BENSINGER ‘73 JOHN R. BRUNNER ‘60 CHERYL A. BURINSKY ‘79 ÅJOHN D. CAMPBELL ‘64 DENNIS C. CARRIG ‘80 SANDRA J. CICCOZZI ‘55 COLLINS, CHARMAINE E. STUART CONGDON ‘75 BARRY E. CREGAR ‘62 SCOTT F. CRESSMAN ‘70 GEORGIA E. CRESSMAN ‘70 LAMONT R. EBBERT ‘58 ROSALYNN D. ERICSON ‘69 JOHANN M. EVELY ‘64 BRIAN C. FOCHT ‘94 LEO A. FRAILEY ‘64 DOROTHY E. GAUDIOSO ‘67 ROMAYNE GEISSENHAINER ‘67 LESTER B. GIBBS ‘57 SUSANN M. GIBBS ‘57 JOHN M. HALMI ‘61 M’64 JOHN HOOPER ‘60 ALICE A. HUFFMAN ‘66 TINA M. IRANI ‘96 JOHN D. JACOBS ‘56 JOHN PHILLIP KANE ‘76 RUDOLPH A. KASARDA M’77 JEANETTE KASSIS M’03 PAULINE A. KIELBASA ‘55 LYNN A. LASSER ‘79 JOHN F. LEHMAN ‘72 HELEN F. LESTER ‘50 NELSON LODGE ‘61 PATRICIA A. LOFTUS ‘77 ROBERT J. LUZIETTI ‘61 KRISTOFFER R. MAGUIRE ‘06 M’08 JOHN J. MEANY ‘61 CATHERINE L. MCCARTHY ‘99 WILLIAM “BING” MCNULTY ‘62 ELIZABETH MCSHEEHY ‘56
VINCENT J. MONTONE ‘13 GARY J. C. MOYER ‘73 CYNTHIA L. MUFFLEY ‘71 DANIEL T. MURPHY ‘90 SUSAN J. NEWHARD ‘84 JOHN F. PARKS ‘54 KENNETH M. PEARSON ‘66 JOAN PERU ‘55 JAMES H. REHRIG ‘70 CARL F. RHODES ‘67 KEITH T. SALTER ‘70 STEPHEN H. SASSAMAN ‘73 M’80 DARLEEN SCHAARE-SCHOTT ‘63 DONALD J. SHELUGA ‘62 JOAN M. SKORANSKI ‘84 BARRY E. SLEMMER ‘62 VICTORIA A. SMITH ‘73 ROSEMARIE M. SNYDER ‘90 JAMES R. C. STOKES ‘22 YVONNE T. SWEENEY ‘78 DIANE T. TOMCZYK ‘65 SARA BUNNELL TRAVER ‘61 DONALD C. TROUTMAN M’65 BERTHA A. VAN DER BENT HAMEL ‘76 ALLEN J. WALKER ‘89 KENNETH S. WELGOSS ‘63 JAMES C. WERKHEISER ‘52 CAROL A. WOLF ‘68 LOUIS J. WOLF ‘58 KATHERINE D. YOUNG ‘46 JENNY L. ZLICESKI ‘05 FACULTY & STAFF ARTHUR M. KROLL DEAN MILLER FRIENDS CHARMAINE COLLINS DONALD A. DOUDS ROBERT K. GROFF CONNIE HOSIER WILLIAM MANCUSO TERRY G. MILLER CHERYL S. NILES - OKIE
Kidman was a long-time resident of Stroudsburg, Pa.
MEMORIAL GIFTS may be made through the ESU Foundation at esufoundation.org/givenow. For personal assistance, please call 570-422-3333.
In Memoriam reflects alumni, facutly, staff and friends who passed away up to July 2, 2025.
FLASHBACK Circa 70 years ago, Stroud Hall and the Warriors of those days.
Courtesy of The Stroud yearbook.
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WHAT AN INCREDIBLE SEASON! Warriors Baseball takes it to the DII COLLEGE WORLD SERIES Read all about the Warriors historic season on page 24.