EAST STROUDSBURG UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
ALUMNI HERALD
SPRING/SUMMER 2026
A NEW ERA BEGINS
ESU’s striking new University Center ready to welcome the next generation of Warriors.
CampusSnap
Warriors connecting on the Quad during the ESU End of Year Extravaganza on April 23, 2026. Photo by Renee Broady
INSIDE
RELATED CONTENT
Who’s Where? A new UC brings changes. What offices now reside in the new facility?
FEATURES 12 COMMENCEMENT 2026
Alumni speakers inspire as 1,182 graduates prepare for what’s next
24 ATHLETICS RISES TO THE OCCASION Lacrosse, Softball, Baseball take top spots; Athletes meet personal bests
DEPARTMENTS
Ten years of planning. Four years of building. One new campus centerpiece.
Meet ESU’s University Center, the 109,233 square foot, state-of-the-art, facility that will become the heartbeat of campus, shaping every Warriors’ student experience. With construction complete, preparations are under way to welcome students through its doors in fall 2026. The journey may have been long, but the end result is breathtaking. Step inside University Center where the next generation of Warriors will build upon ESU’s 133-year history.
STAY CONNECTED with your alma mater @WarriorAlumni ESUAA
PHOTOGRAPHY James Boburka Jonathan Broady Renee Broady Susie Forrester Olivia Wetherhold Caryn Wilkie
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philanthropic support shown for prominent spaces
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DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Office of University Advancement Office of Marketing and Communications Ideal Design Solutions
Changes and Growth: A historical timeline of ESU’s major building projects
10 It’s in the name. Donor
COVER STORY
UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT Kenneth Long
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CONTRIBUTORS Lianna DeSantis ’08 Connor Glunt Mike Gombita Sara Karnish Greg Knowlden M’04 Elizabeth Richardson Michelle Keating-Sibel ’00 Shelley A. Speirs ’92 Samantha Traini Olivia Wetherhold Caryn Wilkie
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CAMPUS NEWS
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ESU FOUNDATION
20 ALUMNI NEWS 24 WARRIOR SPIRIT 32 CLASS NOTES 35 IN MEMORIAM
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 and Annual Giving. Please address all correspondence to: ESU Office of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving 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!
Welcome to the Spring/Summer 2026 edition of the Alumni Herald! It’s always an exciting time to be a Warrior, and especially in this moment, as we unveil our new University Center that will transform our ESU community and continue to move our student experience forward. We’ve put together a broad package of photos and information on the amenities for you to showcase what our students will enjoy when they return to campus for the Fall 2026 semester, and can’t wait to celebrate with them and witness how it supports their academic and extracurricular excellence. Our current and future Warriors will thrive in the new UC, the culmination of a decade of planning and four years of construction in the middle of campus. The result is a four-story facility spanning more than 100,000 square feet that will be a centralized, modern meeting space anchored by the Warriors Den food court, a ballroom, theatre, art gallery, student and professional offices, and numerous meeting spaces. As I mention in the cover story, this is an investment in our campus community, in the future of our students and the next generation of Warriors, and was built without incurring additional debt to the university. Along with finishing this new building, we also successfully completed our re-accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) this spring, a testament to ESU’s collective commitment to academic excellence, institutional integrity, and the success of every student we serve. Many thanks to our committee, faculty, staff and students who contributed to this process over the last two years, which allows us to continue our mission of providing high quality, affordable and accessible education. I want to acknowledge the accomplishments of our nearly 1,200 graduates who received degrees in our May commencement ceremonies. The grads and their families and friends heard from two ESU alums, Christopher Hunt ’02 Ed.D. ’19 at the graduate ceremony and Zachary McDowell ’08, M.D., at the undergraduate ceremonies, as they shared their perspectives on what an ESU education has meant to them. I’m confident that each of our newest graduates will write their own stories, taking their ESU experiences into the world to build family and community wherever life takes them. I would also like to highlight a few other spring events. Our 2026 Economic Outlook Summit, our 13th annual, included remarks from Daniel Burrus, a global technology futurist, strategic advisor and author, who challenged the attendees to think about how they can harness the power of our changing world. In April, Yaa Aye-Danquah, a senior majoring in Finance from Willow Grove, Pa., won the Warrior Startup 2 the alumni herald
Challenge and $10,000 to continue to build her business, Sweeties Kitchen and Pastries. And in March, we hosted the PA Department of Education which announced nearly $1 million in grants to 11 higher ed institutions for an accelerated pathway to certification for Special Education teachers. Our annual Scholarship Dinner always shines a light on the best of ESU, and the more than $1.2 million that was given from 777 annual and endowed scholarships in 2025-26. This dinner allows scholarship donors and recipients to meet, share their experiences and encouragement, and acknowledges the selfless contributions of our alumni and community members who support our students’ success. And the 29th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration in January recognized four recipients of the Mary Gertrude Smith Boddie ‘1904 Scholarship, along with our student, faculty/staff and community award honorees. Two special features inside spotlight Magdelynn Wigoda ’22 M’25, the founder and president of ESU’s chapter of The Hidden Opponent which supports student-athlete mental health, who recently completed Good Morning America’s “Six-Week Shape Up”, and athletic trainer Jayme Galdieri, D.H.Sc. ’26, and graduate students Olympia Curley-Katrishen and Cameron Nunez, who provided their services to the Special Olympics PA State Games. Our Warriors student-athletes continue to excel and reached a new milestone this year – their best-ever Learfield Directors’ Cup finish, tying for 20th across all of NCAA Division II. Six sports, baseball, women’s cross country, field hockey, women’s lacrosse, softball and women’s volleyball, qualified for their respective NCAA Tournaments, and the track and field team produced numerous All-Americans during the indoor and outdoor seasons. Women’s lacrosse stood out this spring with their fifth Atlantic Region championship in the last seven seasons, led by national player of the year Sadie Kauffman. As ESU approaches 10 years of establishing and building on our claim of “Where Warriors Belong” I know you’ll agree that belonging is a common thread through everything that you’ll read about in this edition. We create environments where people belong, foster engagement, and support academic, co-curricular and extracurricular pursuits, creating opportunities that prepare Warriors to succeed, lead, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. This has been ESU’s mission throughout our history, and we’ll keep moving, learning, striving and belonging here, together. Kenneth Long ESU President
ALUMNI BOARD
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION CORNER
2026-2027
GREETINGS, FELLOW ALUMNI, Spring was an exciting season for the East Stroudsburg University alumni community, and it was wonderful to see so many Warriors reconnect, celebrate, and engage with the University throughout the semester. One of the highlights of the spring was the annual ESU Foundation Scholarship Dinner, which once again brought together alumni, donors, students, faculty, and friends of ESU to celebrate the impact scholarships have on our students. Thank you to everyone who attended and continues to invest in the future of ESU and the success of our students. Our board was proud to celebrate scholarship recipient Alyssa Ryan, recipient of the ESU Alumni Association Board of Directors Annual Scholarship. This time of year also marks one of the University’s proudest traditions: Commencement. Congratulations to the Class of 2026 as graduates crossed the stage during ceremonies held May 8 and May 9. Commencement serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, dedication, and promise that define the Warrior spirit, and we are excited to welcome our newest graduates into the ESU alumni community. This spring also marked important transitions within the Alumni Association Board of Directors. We extend our sincere appreciation to our outgoing board members for their leadership, service, and dedication to the University. Thank you to Brandon Lawrence ‘07, Michael Bidwell ‘99, Jessica Maxwell ‘16, and Adrian Neves ‘07 for your service and commitment to ESU.
We also offer special thanks to Lori Miller Weinstein ‘77 and Tom Petro ‘72, who recently completed their third and final terms on the board. After nine consecutive years of service, we are deeply grateful for the time, talent, and support they have generously given to ESU. Alumni and friends came together for the Alumni ‘Fun-Raiser’ on July 31, 2026. This tournament continues to be a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with fellow Warriors while supporting alumni programming and initiatives. We hope many of you will return to campus this fall for Family Weekend on Sept. 11 - 12 and Homecoming on Oct. 2 - 3. From athletic events and alumni gatherings to campus traditions and family activities, these weekends continue to showcase the spirit and pride that make ESU special. Thank you for continuing to stay engaged and connected with East Stroudsburg University. Your continued involvement helps strengthen the Warrior community for generations to come. 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 Board Members Kristine P. Bush ‘12 Britt James Carpenter ‘89 Glenn W. Clark ‘74 Joseph Delchop ‘10 Danielle Dungee ‘17 Aimee Ellison ‘91 Ashley Johnson ‘08 Kate Kirkwood ‘95 Sierra Lefurgy ‘23 Yewande Oladeinde ‘07 Caitlin Ord ‘07 M’08 Melissa Owens ‘06 M’11 Jessica Ras ‘13 Sean Roth ‘16 Robin Schneider ‘04 Stephanie Squires ‘06 Bryan Thomson ‘14 Emeriti Glenn Gottshalk ‘72 Bryan L. Hill ‘71 Frank E. Johnson ‘74 Phyllis M. Kirschner ‘63 Sandra “Pinky” O’Neil-Seiler ‘57 Faye D. Soderberg ‘58 Virginia M. Sten ‘71 John E. Woodling ‘68 M.Ed. ‘76
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UNIVERSITY CENTER
Photos by Susie Forrester
ESU COMPLETES ITS NEWEST SHOWSTOPPING CENTERPIECE
Bold, Gorgeous, and Distinctly ESU By Sara Karnish
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From the Quad, the entirety of the four-story, 109,233 square foot building can be taken in. Inset: The corner of the new building alongside the old University Center, its name still attached before demolition.
It’s taken a decade of planning and four years of construction, but for the East Stroudsburg University community, the wait for the new University Center is finally over. The 4-story, 109,233 square foot, state-of-the-art facility is complete and ready to welcome students this fall. It stands prominently in the center of campus and will play an important role in life at ESU. “The purpose of the UC project was to create a centralized, modern meeting space for the student body,” says Dennis Shores, Jr., assistant vice president of facilities management. Several campus and student organization offices will be relocated into the building and its many amenities promise to enhance the college experience. A ballroom, theatre,
and art gallery are among some of the new spaces housed within the University Center, but the revamped Warriors Den food court featuring the campus’ first Chick-fil-A location has unquestionably stirred up the most excitement among students. The new building will serve the needs of students in the short term while positioning itself for long-term success. “It’s a subtle reminder that ESU is here to stay,” says ESU President Kenneth Long. “When you make an investment like this in your campus community, it reassures current and prospective students that you’re investing in their future. It shows we’re forward thinking about the next generation of Warriors who come through.”
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A DECADE IN THE MAKING The origin of the new building goes back to 2010 under the leadership of former President Dr. Robert J. Dillman. “There was a master plan which stated ESU have a larger student center to meet the needs of the current student population. Rather than make any modifications to the building, it was decided to start new construction,” explains John Bloshinski, ESU director of facilities management. Originally, the plan included moving the library next door and connecting the buildings. Former President Dr. Marcia G. Welsh and Long, who was serving as ESU’s vice president of administration and finance at the time, jointly agreed in coordination with the Council of Trustees to drop the library portion and have new designs for a standalone University Center drawn up. After securing necessary permits and approvals, the university officially broke ground for the newly-redesigned building in July 2022.
THROUGH THE DECADES
Since it’s founding in 1893, East Stroudsburg University’s campus has grown. None of the original buildings still stand, having been replaced by modern construction. With the completion of the new University Center in 2026, the first new construction in nearly a decade, let’s take a look back at ESU’s growth since the 1920s. The beginning, Stroud Hall Circa 1898
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1931
Abeloff Center for the Performing Arts
One College Circle The President’s Residence
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1968
Koehler Fieldhouse
Stroud Hall
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2003
Joseph H. & Mildred E. Beers Lecture Hall
Mattioli Recreation Center
Student study space on the third floor overlooks the Quad with Shawnee Hall in the background.
The reflection of the old University Center, right, can be seen in the windows of the new building directly behind it, left. In the background is Stroud Hall. Once the old center is demolished, the area will feature greenspace, and a amphitheater/plaza area.
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1940
1940
1941
1959
Zimbar-Liljenstein Hall
Monroe Hall
DeNike Center for Human Services
Rosenkrans Hall
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1972
1979
1980
University Center
Reibman Administration Building
Fine and Performing Arts
Kemp Library
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2008
2010
2017
Henry A. Ahnert, Jr. Alumni Center
Warren E. ’55 and Sandra Hoeffner Science and Technology Center
Innovation Center
Sycamore Suites
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The Warriors Den food court features the campus’ first Chick-fil-A location.
The University Center Atrium spans all four floors, its wall of windows filling the expansive space with natural light.
It’s the largest building project undertaken by ESU in decades and stands as the biggest capital project in the university’s history, all done without incurring additional debt to the university. “The total cost was $84 million, and the university was able to accomplish this thanks to capital dollars from the state [Pennsylvania Department of General Services] and good fiscal management on the part of the university. That’s critical for the long-term viability of the university as we look to maintain the affordability of the campus. Not having long-term debt for this project allows us to focus on academic investments,” Long explains. It took a team effort to bring the University Center from concept to reality. Three presidents and thousands of students have had their fingerprints on the project. Student feedback was especially critical for decisions around the building’s aesthetics and layout. 8 the alumni herald
The fourth floor of the University Center features common and study areas with floor to ceiling windows. The notable smokestack in the center of campus stands in the background.
“The students were the driving force for what should be included in the space, as they’re the ones who will be using it,” Long explains. “Several student government leaders provided their input. Former vice president Doreen Tobin was a major contributor to this project, as was the Student Activity Association.” At Long’s request, ESU’s marketing and communications team were heavily involved in decisions around color palettes and branding for the building’s interior design. As a result, Long says, “This is the first building on campus whose interior aesthetic was fully designed with ESU in mind. It’s not overbearing, but you see it.” ESU’s Marketing and Communications department worked closely with the facilities management team and Mary Frances Postupack, ESU’s vice president for economic development and entrepreneurship, to establish the aesthetic of the building’s interior.
THE UNIVERSITY CENTER’S TENANTS The following campus and student organization offices will be located in the new University Center: • Warriors Den Food Court featuring Chick-fil-A • ESU’s Barnes & Noble Bookstore • Ballroom • President’s Board Room “You walk through the building and you know you’re at ESU,” says Amy Colwell, assistant director, planning and engineering, ESU facilities management department. “There’s lots of red, gray, black, and white—it’s very ‘ESU’ with the branding.” The building’s façade mixes sleek and modern, providing well-lit, open spaces – both timeless and traditional. “There’s been some modernizing, but the building’s aesthetics match those of the buildings around it,” Long explains. “We spent several months on the design of the building’s façade. We considered a more modern look, but opted to keep it more traditional so it still matches the façades and ‘flow’ of the buildings around it.”
• The Phyllis and Jerry Rubin Art Gallery • Theatre • 90.3 WESS Student Radio Station • Stroud Courier Student Newspaper • Campus Life and Inclusive Excellence • Student Activity Association (SAA) • Greek Life • Center for Student Engagement and Belonging • Interfaith and Spirituality Initiatives • Gender and Sexuality Center • Career and Workforce Development • Student Veteran Center • ROTC • eCard Office • PSECU • IT Help Desk • Offices for Several Vice Presidents
The second floor of the University Center features The Phyllis and Jerry Rubin Art Gallery, named by Jay, Mark, and Barth Rubin in honor of their parents.
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The existing University Center is set for demolition and will be replaced by a new outdoor amphitheater-type area which will host events and serve as another gathering space for students. We’re in the Poconos. We have a beautiful space. It was driven by the need to make the most of our space, and the exterior was almost as important as the interior,” Long said. COMMUNITY IMPACT The meeting rooms within the University Center will fall under ESU’s Conference Services umbrella and present more partnership opportunities with the community. The building’s new ballroom promises to be an exciting new space for events. Local groups have already shown strong interest in reserving the room. Annual campus events like the MLK Celebration Breakfast and the ESU Foundation Scholarship Dinner previously held off-site will now be held on campus.
“The room will help complement the other event spaces in the region— not replace, but complement,” Long said. “Students who don’t have cars or needed busing to off-campus events won’t have to worry about transportation.” He added, “The hospitality program students will have a heavy hand in the catering aspect. Co-curricular activities will be a big part of this building. I’m looking forward to having hands-on learning take place in different aspects of the building. Fine arts, musical theater, and the hospitality program will all have a strong presence throughout.” The University Center is that much closer to being fully open for business with each new tenant that moves and settles into their new space. A ribbon cutting will be held when students return to campus this fall. “This is the students’ building. It’s here to help them learn in an environment that meets their needs. It’s important that they have the first engagement with this building when they come back,” Long explained.
ESU’s new, modernized bookstore is located on the first floor.
DONORS HELP DEFINE THE NEW UNIVERSITY CENTER ESU’s new University Center is more than brick, mortar, and gleaming floor to ceiling windows. Areas within the building also stand as a testament to the generosity of those who believe in education.
2022 at the age of 92, was an avid artist who learned to paint through a class taught be Strauser. Her husband, Jerry, died in 2015, the 64th year of their marriage.
Three spaces have already been named by alumni and friends of the university who are committed to ESU and the impact the new center will have on a student’s college experience. An art gallery and two mock interview rooms within the Career and Workforce Development Center are now recognized with dedication plaques that clearly mark each honored space.
“My parents were always supportive of ESU,” said Barth Rubin, one of the three sons and a long-time supporter of ESU. “They appreciated the culture ESU offered our community and students, and we were proud to honor them in the naming of the art gallery.” Through their donation, the gallery will be able to expand its co-curricular offerings for students.
The Rubin Family selected the art gallery on the second floor, to honor their parents who, in their lifetimes, continually supported the university through an endowed scholarship and the student-run dining hall, P&J’s. The Phyllis and Jerry Rubin Art Gallery will include pieces from the prominent Sterling Strauser collection donated to ESU by Grey and Linda Carter. Strauser was an acclaimed, self-taught artist who lived and painted in East Stroudsburg from 1928-1955. Phyllis Rubin, who died in 10 the alumni herald
The interior plaque in the gallery states: In memory of our parents, Jay, Mark, and Barth Rubin Have established the Phyllis and Jerry Rubin Art Gallery On the fourth floor of the new University Center is the Career and Workforce Development Center, an office that supports students and alumni with career exploration, professional and skill training. Two of three mock interview rooms within the center have been named by donors who support the workforce of tomorrow.
The reception area of the Keystone Ballroom overlooks a widened brick walkway, Stroud Hall and McGarry Communications Center.
The Keystone Ballroom on the second floor is a dynamic new event space on campus. Its rear windows overlook an adjacent brick patio and Eiler-Martin Stadium.
Jasmine Espitia and Michael Nichols, members of ESU’s University Center ambassador staff, are both anxiously awaiting the UC’s opening as a central hub for students, including ample study spaces and enhanced meeting rooms and technology for the University’s student organizations.
Nichols, a business management major, is a member of Kappa Delta Rho and expects to use the new building several times a week for chapter meetings and weekly philanthropy tables for their fundraiser, BePositive childhood cancer research. “During my past year with the Student Government Association, I had at least one new person asking me when it was going to open each week. The UC will provide spaces for students to congregate with friends, dedicated study areas, spaces for clubs and organizations to meet, and the opportunity to meet new people. Students are going to love it and I am glad that I will be able to experience it for the next two years.”
Espitia, an applied mathematics major and physics minor, says she can see students spending a lot of time getting caught up on course work on the fourth floor, which includes a large study lounge and white boards. An Orientation Leader during her time at ESU, she has fond memories of meeting new friends in the former UC and feels the new building’s resources will make it easier for Warriors to adjust to campus. “It will be the heart of where so many connections happen,” she said.
Made possible by Dr. Michael P. Soltys ’55 Ed. D., and Judy and Paul Schuchman, both rooms provide students the opportunity to practice interview skills in a realistic, low-pressure environment as they build confidence and receive feedback from skilled professionals. Dr. Soltys, a 1955 graduate and former editor in chief of the Stroud Courier and ESU yearbook, The Stroud, noted that the job market and technology continue to evolve and students should take advantage of the services within the workforce development center. Soltys worked at the Morning Call newspaper, Bethlehem Steel, and also taught at Lehigh University and DeSales University.
“It’s absolutely gorgeous. It’s hip and modern, and that’s the approach we wanted,” said Colwell. “There’s a lot of open plan areas. I think the students and everyone who will be in the building will love it.”
“Students need to assess their unique skills, interests, and values and match them to the rapidly changing world of work,” said Soltys. The Schuchman Interview Room was made possible by local business owners Judy and Paul Schuchman, noting the new University Center represents a bold step forward for ESU and the entire community. “As local business owners, we see firsthand the value of a highly skilled, prepared workforce. By supporting one of the new interview rooms, we hope to provide a dedicated space where students build the confidence and professional polish needed to launch successful careers right here in the Poconos,” said Paul Schuchman.
NAME A SPACE. CREATE A LEGACY THAT ENDURES OVER TIME. Naming opportunities within ESU’s new University Center remain available. For more information, please email esufoundation@esufoundation.org or call 570-422-3333.
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CAMPUS NEWS
Christopher Hunt ’02 Ed.D. ’19
Graduate students process during Graduate Commencement Exercises on May 8, 2026. Photo by Renee Broady
COMMENCEMENT 2026
ALUMNI INSPIRE GRADUATES AS THEY PREPARE FOR THEIR NEXT CHAPTER ESU’s commencement weekend drew family and friends to campus as 1,182 students received degrees during three commencement exercises on May 8-9, 2026, at Koehler Fieldhouse. Fall 2025 graduates, whose degrees were conferred in December, and August 2026 graduates, whose degrees will be conferred upon course completion this summer, also participated in the ceremonies. A total of 926 bachelor’s degrees, 234 master’s degrees and 22 doctoral degrees were awarded. Christopher Hunt ’02 Ed.D. ’19 was the keynote speaker during the graduate commencement ceremony. Dr. Hunt serves as vice president and dean for Inclusive Excellence at Moravian University in Bethlehem, Pa. In this role, he leads the university’s efforts in academic support, inclusion and belonging, international education, and faculty and staff development.
Enjoying time together before Undergraduate Commencement on May 9, 2026. Photo by Susie Forrester
He is the founder of the award-winning Reed Raymond ’74 College Readiness Program of the Lehigh Valley, which prepares high school students for a successful transition to college. Zachary McDowell ’08, M.D. was the keynote speaker for ESU’s two undergraduate commencement ceremonies. Dr. McDowell holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from ESU, and went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine from Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, completed a General Surgery Internship and Urology Residency at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, and finished his training with a Fellowship in Minimally Invasive Surgery and Oncology at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, Washington. McDowell now serves as an assistant professor of Urology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, where he specializes in robotic surgery for urologic cancers and is dedicated to training the surgeons of tomorrow.
ESU ISSUED OFFICIAL CARNEGIE SEAL AS A RESEARCH UNIVERSITY East Stroudsburg University was been issued an official seal for the 2025 Research Activity Designations by American Council on Education (ACE) and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching (Carnegie Foundation). The list shows an updated methodology intended to better account for and reflect the multifaceted, wide-ranging research landscape of higher education institutions in America. ESU was designated a Research College or University. It identifies research happening at colleges and universities that historically have not been recognized for their research activity, including institutions that do not offer many or any doctoral degrees. This new designation includes any non-R1 or R2 institution that spends more than $2.5 million on research annually, accounting for 216 institutions. In the revised 2025 Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, ESU is among 3% of U.S. college and universities classified as a Professions-focused Undergraduate/Graduate – Master’s Large/Medium institution. Additionally, in the Student Access and Earnings grouping, ESU is associated with those institutions that are Higher Access and Medium Earnings. Both categories attest to the significance that ESU places in furthering the social and economic mobility of its learners through career-focused programs and affordability. In FY24 and FY25, 42 percent and 47 percent of all undergraduates received a Pell Grant. 12 the alumni herald
Zachary McDowell ’08, M.D.
ESU HOSTS THE 2026 ECONOMIC OUTLOOK SUMMIT
MONROE, PIKE, CARBON AND WAYNE COUNTIES CELEBRATE THE SPIRIT OF THE POCONOS East Stroudsburg University hosted the 2026 Economic Outlook Summit on May 15, 2026, at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions – Poconos. The theme, Reflect, Unite, Innovate, provided government and business leaders from the four-county region a forum to analyze the economics of the region. The summit included business showcase presentations from each county as well as the Economic Scorecard of the Poconos, a region that attracts more than 30 million visitors annually and generates an economic impact of $4.3 billion. Keynote speaker for the summit was Daniel Burrus, a global technology futurist, strategic advisor and author. His keynote address was “Using Hard Trends and AI to Accelerate Innovation and Economic Growth.” Also presenting was Michael B. Carroll, Pennsylvania’s secretary of transportation, who spoke on the future of transportation in the Poconos. To learn more and view the current Economic Scorecard and those of prior years, visit https://www.esu.edu/economicoutlook-summit/scorecard.cfm.
Daniel Burrus, a global technology futurist, strategic advisor and author, speaks during 2026 Economic Outlook Summit. Photos by Susie Forrester George Brown, executive director of Boyds Mills which publishes the acclaimed Highlights for Children in Wayne County, presents during the 2026 Economic Outlook Summit.
STATE GRANT ENABLES ESU TO EXPEDITE TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION OF SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHERS Deputy Secretary for the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education Amy Lena visited ESU in March to announce nearly $1 million in grants to 11 institutions of higher education to provide an accelerated pathway to certification for Special Education teachers in training. The announcement follows Governor Josh Shapiro’s pledge to stabilize the Commonwealth’s pipeline of highly qualified teachers and ensure that all Pennsylvania students – including students with disabilities — have the opportunity to succeed. These grants allow ESU and other higher education institutions to expedite training and certification for Special Education teachers like Nick Tanzillo, who earned his certification in the first cohort of 142 educators who completed the Accelerated Program for PK-12 Special Education Teacher Certification in 2025. Tanzillo is now a special education teacher for Colonial Intermediate Unit 20 working with students in a therapeutic emotional support program at Pleasant Valley Middle School in the Pleasant Valley School District and a mentor to students in ESU’s second cohort of aspiring educators in the accelerated program. “The Accelerated Grant Program created an opportunity that once felt out of reach, the ability to become a certified special education teacher while continuing to work and support my family. The mentorship, field experience, and coursework worked together to accelerate my growth as an educator,” Tanzillo said. “Because of that investment, my students now benefit from a classroom led by someone who understands their needs from years of handson experience.” The Accelerated Program for PK-12 Special Education Teacher Certification expedites the certification process for prospective special educators who are
currently working on emergency permits, experience-based certificates, or serving as paraeducators in Pennsylvania schools. In 2025, a second group of students began coursework through the accelerated program to become certified Special Education teachers in Pennsylvania. Enrolled at 14 colleges and universities throughout the Commonwealth, those 150 students are on track to obtain their teaching certification later this year. With the recent third round of funding, the program is helping to train and certify an additional 175 Special Education teachers – bringing the total to more than 450 Special Education teachers being prepared to teach in Pennsylvania classrooms through this expedited pipeline. ESU is a three-time recipient of the grant. The university collaborates with Northampton Community College and has partnerships with Colonial Intermediate Unit 20 and local school districts to remove roadblocks that can prohibit a student from becoming special education professionals. A total of 32 students completed the Accelerated Special Educator Certification through the first two rounds of grant funding. “East Stroudsburg University is thankful to receive grant funding once again for the Accelerated Special Educator Certification. The objective of this grant falls in line with a variety of other initiatives ESU’s College of Education is working on to help put well-prepared teachers in classrooms and alleviate the teacher shortage in the commonwealth,” said Dr. Brooke Langan, Dean of ESU’s College of Education. “We are always working closely with area school districts to address the need for teachers including creating post-baccalaureate opportunities such as this accelerated Special Educator Certification program.”
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CAMPUS NEWS
ANNUAL MLK CELEBRATION RECOGNIZES AWARDEES, UNITES COMMUNITY “Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope,” was the theme for ESU’s 29th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration held on January 19, 2026, at the Stroudsmoor Country Inn in Stroudsburg, Pa. Keynote speaker for the event was Pastor Selena Dionne Brown, campus pastor of The Greater Shiloh Church. The Mary Gertrude Smith Boddie ‘1904 Scholarship recipients were Khaleel Theophile, a junior majoring in computer science from Sicklerville, N.J.; Miguel Charlery, a junior majoring Pastor Selena Dionne Brown speaks during the 29th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in business management from St. Lucia; T’kyla Moody, a junior majoring in criminal Celebration. Photo by Susie Forrester justice from Philadelphia, Pa.; and Celeste Yunez-Cosme, a junior biology major from Whitehall, Pa. The four students each received a $4,200 scholarship award for the spring 2026 semester. There were three recipients of MLK annual awards. The Student Award was presented to Marian Juya ‘17, a doctoral student at ESU whose dissertation research examines psychological distress, war-related trauma, and healthcare access among refugees in the United States. The University Faculty/Staff Award recipient was Dr. Samuel Ebow Quainoo, a distinguished scholar, educator and global advocate for democracy, justice and cultural understanding. The community award was presented to Charece N. Sanders, president and founder of The Metamorphosis Women’s Empowerment Initiative. Next year’s celebration will take place on January 18, 2027.
TUTORING PROGRAM RECEIVES HIGHEST CERTIFICATION The ESU Tutorial Program received the highest-level certification — Level III — from the College Reading & Learning Association, the professional development organization that sets rigorous standards for tutoring in higher education. Kelly McKenzie, Ed.D., associate professor and director of ESU’s UniversityWide Tutorial Program, said the program’s effectiveness can be traced in part to teaching tutors how to help students understand what they are learning and get beyond simple memorization of facts. “We’re training our tutors to help students become independent learners, to help them with their study skills,” McKenzie said. “One thing we tell our tutors is their students should be able to explain what they are learning back to them. And if they can do that and they do it effectively, it means that they understand.” To become peer tutors, students must have at least a 3.0 GPA with an A or B in the course they wish to tutor and recommendations from two professors. To gain Level I certification, they must have 10 hours of training per semester and be observed by McKenzie or other Tutoring Center staff and complete 25 hours of tutoring. They must complete 50 hours for Level II and 75 hours for Level III with more training and observation. McKenzie credited Matthew Simmons, ESU coordinator of tutoring, for organizing and submitting all the documents to the College Reading & Learning Association necessary for certification. 14 the alumni herald
ESU PROFESSOR PUBLISHES BOOK ANALYZING TRANSATLANTIC TRADE
Leif Johan Eliasson, Ph.D., ESU professor of political science, recently published the book Trade, Jobs, and Rules: How Transatlantic Commerce Affects Companies and Citizens. The book demonstrates how closely integrated the transatlantic economy is, and how interdependent the US and Europe really are. It was published by Palgrave MacMillan, in their International Political Economy Series, and is currently available for purchase.
This book tells the story of how transatlantic trade touches the lives of Americans and Europeans, using real-world examples and straightforward explanations of economic ideas and concepts. Leif Johan Eliasson, Ph.D. At a time when headlines seem to focus on the United States and China, this book looks at how the largest economic relationship, that between the US and Europe, affects the lives of American and European citizens. For more information about the book, contact Dr. Eliasson by email at jeliasson@esu.edu.
THE WARRIOR START UP CHALLENGE RECOGNIZES STUDENT IDEAS ESU’s Division of Economic Development and Entrepreneurship held its Warrior Startup Challenge, culminating with the top three student finalists presenting their business ideas to judges on April 7, 2026. Yaa AyeDanquah, a senior majoring in finance from Willow Grove, Pa., won the first-place prize of $10,000. Danquah presented a business plan for Sweeties Kitchen and Pastries, a catering company that serves authentic Ghanaian and continental flavors. Alexa Villafana, a senior majoring in communications from Stroudsburg, Pa., came in Yaa Aye-Danquah presents her first-place business idea to a second place, receiving $5,000 panel of judges during the Warrior Start Up Challenge. for her company The Network Photo by SusiForrester Exchange, a creative business that builds community and economic opportunity through live events and creative advertising. Micah Krajsa, a junior majoring in finance from Middletown, Pa., came in third place and was awarded $2,500 for his company Mayaboard, LLC, a revolutionary, patent pending mobile charging station, designed as a miniature, iconic surfboard, engineered for active mobile users who need to stay connected on the go. The three-round competition began in November with 29 students who recorded a two-minute video highlighting their business idea, and 23 students advanced to Round 2 where they prepared a Business Venture Profile to refine their business model, before the three finalists were selected.
FOUNDATION NEWS
TRACK CONSTRUCTION NEARS COMPLETION AS CAMPAIGN FUNDRAISING ENTERS ITS FINAL LEG
ESU’s indoor track in Koehler Fieldhouse after the new resurfacing, prior to being lined.
Construction on the replacement of ESU’s indoor and outdoor tracks is under way as the ESU Foundation and Department of Athletics edge closer to its campaign fundraising goal of $1.2 million. Within $100,000 to our stated goal, the committee is hard at work, reaching out to alumni and friends of the program to finish the campaign strong. Equipment rolled onsite in late May, with construction scheduled for completion by mid-summer, marking the start of a full rebuild of the outdoor track in EilerMartin Stadium, including a new NCAA-compliant surface, fully restored lane markings, upgraded drainage systems, and enhanced safety features. Field event areas also will be improved, including a new pole vault box, a rebuilt sand pit for long jump and triple jump, and a new high jump pit. The new throws area will be located next to the outdoor track on the former baseball field and will include new throwing circles, a new hammer cage and a javelin runway.
Photo by Caryn Wilkie
The indoor track in Koehler Fieldhouse will be revitalized with a smooth, highperformance surface, improved markings and safety zones, and conditions optimized for year-round training and competition. The renovated five-lane indoor track will provide an NCAA-compliant competition venue for student-athletes. Fundraising for the project launched in early 2025, spearheaded by a committee of 29 alumni and friends dedicated to advancing campaign goals through outreach, advocacy, and philanthropic leadership. The committee is co-chaired by Joseph J. Koch ’88, who spent 37 years coaching within ESU’s track and field programs, and Christopher S. Merli, who dedicated 23 years to coaching and supporting the program. Through the efforts of Senator Rosemary Brown, the ESU Foundation was awarded a $500,000 grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Community and Economic Development in support of the project. Another $250,000 was granted from the R. Dale and Frances M. Hughes Foundation.
We’re near the finish line, but YOUR support is still essential Safe, modern, high-performance training environments are crucial for ESU’s student athletes. More information about the campaign, naming opportunities, and ways to contribute is available at: esufoundation.org/campaign-indoor-and-outdoor-tracks. For personal assistance, please call 570-422-3333.
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FOUNDATION NEWS
ESU FOUNDATION HOSTS 17TH ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP DINNER
STORIES OF GENEROSITY, APPRECIATION AND STUDENT SUCCESS TAKE CENTER STAGE
Panelists share the impact student scholarship has made in their lives. From left, Ray Hamlin ’86, Dr. Gerard Rozea ’96 M’97, students Ashton Blose and Dynasia Speaks. Far right, Master of Ceremonies Rory J. Yanchek ’84.
The East Stroudsburg University Foundation hosted its 17th annual Scholarship Dinner, “Follow Me,” on April 9, 2026, at Terraview at Stroudsmoor Country Inn in Stroudsburg, Pa. Presented by the Pennsylvania State Employees Credit Union, the annual event gives donors and student recipients an opportunity to connect and celebrate the impact of scholarships. More than 300 guests attended the celebration held during the Foundation’s 40th anniversary year. Every academic year, hundreds of ESU students benefit from the generosity of Foundation donors. In fiscal year 2024-25, the Foundation awarded 777 annual and endowed scholarships totaling more than $1.2 million, and 26 new scholarships were created. This marks the sixth consecutive year that the Foundation has provided more than $1 million in scholarship support to deserving Warriors. “To our donors, our sincerest thank you. Your generosity makes these opportunities possible,” said Rich Santoro, executive director of the ESU Foundation. “Because of you, students are able to pursue their goals and move forward with confidence. To our scholarship recipients, we are incredibly proud of you. Your hard work, dedication and determination have brought you to this moment.” The program featured a panel discussion by scholarship recipients and donors who shared personal stories of supporting and receiving scholarships. Alumni shared their professional journeys after graduation while students expressed their gratitude and hopes for the future. Those who participated in the panel: Dynasia Speaks of Royersford, Pa., a graphic design student expected to graduate in 2027, received the Harry and Jeannie Lee Endowed Scholarship, the Margaret A. Rosso Annual Scholarship, and the ESU Suncoast Alumni Chapter Annual Scholarship. Student-athlete Ashton Blose, a senior exercise science major from Els, N.J., has received multiple scholarships: the Ron Vitkun Family Football Annual 16 the alumni herald
Student-athletes and recipients of the Chet ‘67 and Winnie ‘67 Dalgewicz Men’s Wrestling Annual Scholarship meet their donor during the Scholarship Dinner. From left, Luke Ciampa ‘25, Chet Dalgewicz ‘67, Joseph Aldrich, Class of 2027 and Troy Gentzel, Class of 2026. Photos by Susie Forrester
Scholarship, the Jeff Shrive Football Annual Scholarship, the James H. and Sarah A. Rhine Family Endowed Scholarship, the Thomas and Deanna Detwiler Football Endowed Scholarship, and the Peg and Jack ’52 Gregory Annual Scholarship. He earned All-PSAC honors and was twice named PSAC East Defensive Athlete of the Week in 2025. Dr. Gerard Rozea ’96 M’97, ATC, established the Athletic Training Directors Annual Scholarship and the Dr. Gerard D. Rozea ’96 M’97 ATEP Endowed Scholarship. Rozea is a faculty member and department chairperson for ESU’s Athletic Training Department. Ray Hamlin ’86, was recognized for his achievements as a men’s basketball student-athlete and attorney. A Rutgers Law School graduate and founding partner of Hunt, Hamlin and Ridley, he received ESU’s Outstanding Young Alumni Award in 1999. He established the Ray Hamlin ’86 Men’s Basketball Annual Scholarship in 2024. Master of Ceremonies for the celebration was Rory J. Yanchek ’84, chief executive officer of Best Energy Reduction Technologies. Yanchek and his wife, Diane, established the Rory J. Yanchek ’84 Endowed Scholarship and the Rory J. Yanchek ‘84 Annual Scholarship in 2017.
ESU GIVING DAYS 48-HOUR CHALLENGE GENERATES STRONG SUPPORT
East Stroudsburg University’s 2026 Giving Days brought together alumni, faculty, staff, students, parents, and friends for two days of fundraising support benefiting academics, scholarships, the Warrior Fund, and Warrior Athletics.
classroom. The campaign theme, “Create the Next Story,” focused on the idea that every student at ESU is building a story shaped by academics, opportunity, mentorship, resilience, and community support.
The collaborative campaign, led by the ESU Foundation in partnership with campus departments and Athletics, resulted in strong growth across participation, dollars raised, and digital engagement.
Funds raised during Giving Days will directly support student opportunities across ESU, including scholarships, academic programs, hands-on learning experiences, student resources, athletic initiatives, and areas of greatest need. Contributions strengthen the overall student experience and provide opportunities that prepare Warriors for success during and after their time at the university.
The campaign culminated in $42,469 in support, a 38 percent increase from the prior year. Donor participation reached 374 donors, representing a 15.1 percent increase from last year’s Giving Day effort. The two-day initiative was designed to highlight the many areas that shape the ESU student experience. Day one focused on academics, scholarships, and the Warrior Fund, while day two spotlighted Warrior Athletics and the support systems that help student-athletes succeed both in competition and in the
Throughout the campaign, student stories highlighted the real impact of donor support. Current students shared how scholarships, mentorship, academic programs, leadership opportunities, and athletics have shaped their university experience and helped prepare them for their future careers.
BY THE NUMBERS
$42,469
IN TOTAL SUPPORT
374
DONORS
2 DAY
CAMPAIGN
38%
MORE RAISED THAN LAST YEAR
AS FUNDRAISING CONTINUES, PLANNERS EYE NEW LOCATION FOR
SHESKA STADIUM COMPLEX PROJECT
The Sheska Soccer Stadium project and fundraising campaign enters its final stretch as more than $5.2 million has been raised for the projected $5.5 million facility. Earlier this spring, planners redirected their efforts on the proposed location of the stadium after being informed the East Stroudsburg Borough had concerns about a turf field being built on the old baseball field. The location adjacent to Eiler-Martin Stadium was deemed by the borough as too close to a wellhead. Engineers are now preparing a land development plan for a new location on the Mary Street Fields on the east side of campus. The Mary Street fields are currently used for ESU Intramural activities and athletics camps during the summer.
When complete, Sheska Soccer Stadium will include a new NCAA regulation soccer field, spectator seating, lights, a press box, locker rooms, restrooms, a concession stand, scoreboard and sound system. It will be named for Jerry Sheska ’68, ESU’s men’s soccer coach for 29 years (1982-2010) and women’s coach for three (1992-1994). Sheska is the winningest PSAC men’s soccer coach with 424 wins to his name. For more information, and to support the project, visit www.esufoundation. org/sheskasoccerstadium or call 570-422-3333 for personal assistance.
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FOUNDATION NEWS
GIVING BACK
THE ESU FOUNDATION AWARDS FACULTY GRANTS TO SUPPLEMENT AND ENHANCE THE STUDENT EXPERIENCE The ESU Foundation awarded 11 faculty grants in 2025-2026 totaling $9,311.05. These grants enable faculty members to acquire the educational resources that improve and enhance the experience for ESU students. The projects funded through the ESU Foundation faculty grant awards for 2025-2026 were: • Dr. Sarah Everett, Communications/WESS 90.3FM, Equipment Grant for Large Group Radio Shows & Remote Broadcasting
• Dr. Mihye Jeong, Physical Education Teacher Education, Empowering Future Educators Through Experiential Learning: The 11th Jingle Bell 5K Run/2K Walk Event • Michelle LaBadie ‘07 M’10 & Dr. Caroline Dipipi-Hoy, Special Education and Rehabilitation, A Book Study: Collaboration with ESU SPED department & ESASD South HS • Dr. Shawn Watkins, Reading, ESU4KIDS & TEENS: STEM + Story!
• Damian Thorn-Hauswirth, Art + Media + Design, Kinesthetic Code
• Elizabeth Scott, Kemp Library and Art+Media+Design, Kemp Library Mural Project
• Dr. Annie Mendoza, Modern Languages, Philosophy & Religion, 2025 Latino Heritage Month Film Series
• Jessica Patricia Batha, Theater, Music, and Dance, Creating Moveable Boundaries
• Dr. Xuemao Zhang, Mathematics, Hosting the AMC 10/12 Math Competition at ESU
• Dr. Nurun Begum, Early Childhood and Elementary Education, Growing Cultures: Exploring Plant Diversity, STEM, and Cultural Understanding in the ECED Classroom
• Dr. Anu Sachdev & Dr. Sally Yorke-Viney ’93, Early Childhood and Elementary Education, Context Informed Pedagogy: Living and Learning on the Lenape Land
SO MUCH GRATITUDE ESU students, faculty and staff stopped by Dansbury Commons Plaza on April 22, 2026, to write and share messages of thanks during the ESU Foundation’s Third Annual Thank A Donor Day. The event serves as a meaningful reminder of the donor generosity that helps shape the ESU experience and supports Warriors both inside and outside the classroom.
ESU FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
2026-2027 Executive Committee Anthony Ruiz, Esq. ’16 Chair Rory Yanchek ’84 Vice Chair Alfredo Garcia ’03 Treasurer Robert Moses Secretary Board Members Glenn Clark ’74 ESU Alumni Association Liaison Sean P. Crawford ‘99 Anthony Drago ’76 Faculty Liaison George Fields, Jr. ’83 Sean Frazier ’11 Wendy Jankoski ’82 Christopher Paradysz ’83 John J. Pekarovsky III, ’07 Council of Trustees Liaison Michael D. Rhine ‘00 Leslie Wilson ’74 Eric Wyatt ’85 Michelle Yurko ’02 Members Emeriti William B. Cramer, Esq. 1987-2001 and 2014-2019 Rosemary Driebe Olofsson 1987-1999 Robert Willever ’75 2014-2022 Robert A. Shebelsky 2014-2022
Follow the QR code with your smart device to experience the ESU Foundation’s Third Annual Thank A Donor Day.
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You can make a difference.
esufoundationlegacy.org Visit us to learn more about what we do, and how you can help us do the work that we do.
YEARS STUDENT IMPACT
ALUMNI NEWS
Alumna stars in ‘Good Morning America’
FITNESS CHALLENGE
Magdelynn Wigoda ’22 MS ’25, right, appearing June 15, 2026, on ABC’s Good Morning America Fitness Challenge.
Magdelynn Wigoda ’22 MS ’25 is no stranger to stepping up for the benefit of others. As a founder and president of East Stroudsburg University’s chapter of The Hidden Opponent, she helped normalize the conversation on campus surrounding mental health in college athletics by establishing a space for ESU student-athletes to talk openly about their struggles. So when an opportunity came about to promote health and wellbeing in an even bigger way, Wigoda once again decided to put herself out there – this time on the national stage. Wigoda recently completed Good Morning America’s “Six-Week Shape Up,” a fitness challenge aimed at improving wellness and developing healthy everyday habits. Wigoda, along with her two fellow participants, were introduced to viewers of the longstanding morning show in a May 4 kickoff segment led by host Robin Roberts. “The Poconos-based teacher and coach is ready to kickstart a new fitness routine,” Roberts narrated as photos of Wigoda flashed on screen. Over the next six weeks, Wigoda recorded her progress in a series of video updates that GMA aired on its broadcast, website and social media channels. Whether it was playing pickleball or practicing yoga, Wigoda went outside her comfort zone and let the public follow along on her personal fitness journey so others could learn from it, she said. “Watching yourself on TV after you grew up watching Good Morning America as a kid, it’s a cool thing to hear people say that they watched it with their family and that it helped their child or helped them because they felt stuck,” Wigoda said. Wigoda’s growth at ESU was rooted in helping others. A dedicated volunteer, she was awarded the University Leadership Award in her senior year in 2022 for her work with numerous groups, including the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association, the Sign Language Club, Autism Speaks U, East Stroudsburg Shutters and ESU’s Career and Independent Living and Learning 20 the alumni herald
Studies (CILLS) program. She received her bachelor’s degree in communications sciences and disorders in 2022 and earned a master’s degree in communication sciences and disorders in 2025. A former captain of ESU’s women’s basketball team, she also opened up to her fellow student-athletes about her own mental health struggles after an ACL tear caused her to miss her entire senior season. The Hidden Opponent, established the previous year, gave her a safe space to do so. “Thinking back to my freshman year, I didn’t really have an idea of the importance of mental health as a student-athlete, especially at the collegiate level. It just wasn’t talked about,” she said. “I think that’s why I wanted to help bring it here, for my younger self.” In choosing a goal for the “Six-Week Shape Up” challenge, Wigoda wanted to get back to the basics of diet and exercise she followed in those days of being an ESU student-athlete. Good Morning America paired her with fitness expert Robin Arzon and nutritionist Maya Feller, who armed her with a workout plan and tips on healthy eating. As a special education teacher for Behavioral Health Associates in Lehighton, Pa., an assistant varsity basketball coach at East Stroudsburg South High School and an assistant varsity softball coach at Lehighton Area High School, the team helped her develop a strategy that was heavy on smart snack options for being on the go, coupled with daily movement. The challenge concluded on June 15, with Wigoda giving Good Morning America viewers a final check-in on her six-week transformation. “I think these six weeks, I’ve felt more like myself than I have before,” she said. Though she lost 10 pounds during the challenge, Wigoda is prouder of what she gained. “I didn’t know what to expect going into it, but I knew I’d walk away with something I could use to make these important lifestyle changes last,” Wigoda said.
WARRIORS CONNECTING ALUMNI EVENT ROUND UP
WARRIOR WAYPOINT: PORT ST. LUCIE, FLA. FEBRUARY 19, 2026
Warriors reconnect along the Treasure Coast ESU alumni gathered at Meating Street Steak & Seafood in Port St. Lucie for a relaxed evening of networking, conversation, and reconnecting with fellow Warriors. From catching up on life after ESU to sharing favorite university memories, the event brought together alumni from across the region to strengthen connections and celebrate their continued ESU pride.
Alumni from the Classes of 1974 through 2015 gathered at Meating Street Steak & Seafood in Port St. Lucie for an evening of conversation, connection, and Warrior pride.
WARRIOR WAYPOINT: ALEXANDRIA, VA. MARCH 28, 2026
Warriors gather along the Potomac Alumni came together in historic Alexandria for a Warrior Waypoint at Virtue Feed & Grain. The afternoon event provided an opportunity for Warriors in the Washington, D.C., area to reconnect, expand their alumni network, and enjoy meaningful conversation while reflecting on their shared ESU experience.
Alumni representing the Classes of 1961 through 2011 gathered outside Virtue Feed & Grain during the Warrior Waypoint in Alexandria, Va.
WARRIOR WAYPOINT: KING OF PRUSSIA, PA. APRIL 22, 2026
Warriors gather in the Greater Philadelphia region Alumni from across the Greater Philadelphia area came together at City Works in King of Prussia for an evening of networking, conversation, and ESU pride. The Warrior Waypoint created an opportunity for graduates to strengthen alumni connections, share updates from life after ESU, and enjoy time with fellow Warriors in a relaxed setting.
Alumni representing the Classes of 1966 through 2021 gathered at City Works in King of Prussia to celebrate ESU connections and Warrior pride during the Warrior Waypoint event.
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ALUMNI NEWS
HOMECOMING WEEKEND 2026
WARRIORS, JOIN US FOR A WEEKEND DEDICATED TO CELEBRATING YOU! OCTOBER 2–3, 2026
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2
Kick off Homecoming Weekend with the Alumni Awards Ceremony and Reception, hosted by the ESU Alumni Association and the Office of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving. This special evening honors the 2026 Alumni Award recipients and brings the community together to celebrate their impact and achievements.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3
Return to campus for a full day of connection and celebration. The All Alumni & University Tailgate will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot in front of Zimbar-Liljenstein Hall, offering the perfect setting to reconnect with classmates and fellow Warriors. The Class of 1976 will celebrate its 50th Reunion from 9 a.m. to 12 noon with a special gathering in the Zimbar lobby. Members of the class will also be recognized on campus as part of this milestone celebration. Full details and registration information is available at esualumni.org/ homecoming.
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CALLING THE CLASS OF 1976
Celebrate your 50th Reunion while supporting the Class of 1976 Endowed Scholarship The Class of 1976 will be recognized during Homecoming Weekend 2026 as it marks 50 years since graduation from East Stroudsburg University. We hope you will join us back on campus on Saturday, October 3, to reconnect with classmates and receive your 50th reunion pin recognizing your place in ESU history. As the class celebrates this milestone, it also continues building a lasting legacy through the Class of 1976 Endowed Scholarship. Since first being awarded during the 2004-2005 academic year, the scholarship has continued supporting ESU students, with Hannah Schiemer’ 26 becoming the most recent recipient of the award.
“This scholarship is more than just financial assistance, it is a source of encouragement and motivation. Knowing that someone believes in my potential enough to invest in my future pushes me to work harder each day,” said Schirmer. The Class of 1976 has set a goal of growing the scholarship to $76,000 in honor of the class year, with a long-term vision of reaching $100,000 to support future Warriors. Interested in attending the reunion, helping contact classmates, or supporting the scholarship? Contact the Office of Alumni Engagement and Annual Giving at alumni@esufoundation.org or 570-422-3180.
UPCOMING EVENTS August 8, 2026
September 14, 2026 College of Business Management Golf Outing Skytop Lodge, Skytop, Pa. Information and registration at esufoundation.org/COBMgolf2026 or call 570-422-3333.
August 22, 2026
October 2, 2026 Warriors Athletic Golf Outing Supporting Baseball Shawnee Inn and Golf Resort, Shawnee On Delaware, Pa. Information and registration at esufoundation.org/2026BaseballGolf or call 570-422-3333.
August 28, 2026
October 2-3, 2026 Homecoming Weekend 2026 Celebrate Homecoming Weekend with the All-Alumni Tailgate, the Class of 1976 50th Reunion, and the Annual Alumni Awards as Warriors return to campus to reconnect and celebrate ESU pride. Planning is underway, with details available at esualumni.org/homecoming.
Warriors Athletic Golf Outing Supporting Wrestling Green Pond Country Club, Bethlehem, Pa. Information and registration at esufoundation.org/WrestlingGolf2026 or call 570-422-3333.
Warriors Athletic Golf Outing Supporting Softball Bethlehem Golf Club, Bethlehem, Pa. Information and registration at esufoundation.org/SoftballGolf2026 or call 570-422-3333. ESU Alumni at the Lehigh Valley IronPigs Join fellow Warriors for a night at the ballpark as ESU alumni gather for an evening with the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Registration information is available at esualumni.org.
September 3 2026
Bucks/Montgomery County Summer Reunion Reconnect with local alumni while enjoying barn-side dining, pool access, horseshoes, cornhole, tennis, one-hole golf, and a bonfire gathering following the reunion. Check esualumni.org for registration information.
October 29, 2026 Troiani-Sweeney Endowed Lecture Series Niedbala Auditorium, East Stroudsburg University Details and registration will be announced in late summer at esufoundation.org.
September 12, 2026 ESU Legacy Family Pinning Ceremony and Reception This annual campus event brings together families that have multiple generations of ESU graduates. For more information, visit esualumni.org/legacy.
December 3, 2026 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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WARRIOR SPIRIT
WARRIORS POST BEST-EVER LEARFIELD DIRECTORS’ CUP FINISH; RANK THIRD IN PSAC’S DIXON TROPHY STANDINGS
cross country, field hockey, women’s lacrosse, softball and women’s volleyball. They also produced a number of All-America athletes in track and field during the indoor and outdoor seasons.
ESU achieved its best finish in the history of the Learfield Directors' Cup in 202526, tying for 20th among NCAA Division II athletic programs. The Warriors had six teams qualify for their respective NCAA Tournaments – baseball, women’s
In the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference, the Warriors won conference titles in women’s cross country and women’s volleyball. ESU had 24 studentathletes named All-America, 56 named All-Region, and 100 on All-PSAC teams.
ESU has been on a steady climb the last four years, moving from 88th in 202223, to 62nd in 2023-24, and 31st last year. The Learfield Cup is administered by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA).
Sadie Kauffman
Women’s Lacrosse Team
Molly Atwell
WOMEN’S LACROSSE ADVANCES TO FINAL FOUR LED BY KAUFFMAN’S NATIONAL AOY HONORS ESU’s women’s lacrosse team had one of its best seasons in program history, winning its fifth Atlantic Region championship in the last seven seasons, and making its ninth consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance. The Warriors went 20-2 while completing an undefeated regular season. Sadie Kauffman was named the DII Attacker of the Year and was joined by defender Molly Atwell on the All-America team. ESU had five other All-PSAC players and 24 the alumni herald
head coach Xeni Barakos-Yoder ’11 was the PSAC East Coach of the Year. ESU’s 403 goals were 75 more than the previous school record. The Warriors were 9-2 against ranked opponents, including five wins by double-digit goals. They opened the season with nine straight wins by 10+ goals. Kauffman rebroke her own single-season school records for goals and points that she had set as a freshman, finishing with 110 goals and a DII-leading 142 points. She also had a record 173 draw controls, and already ranks second in school history in goals, points and draw controls through two seasons. Ariana Tucci and Lauren Hallman finished with 70 and 51 goals each, giving the Warriors three 50-goal scorers in a season for the first time. They were a perfect 13-0 on their home turf at Whitenight Field, earning the second seed in the Atlantic Region and beating West Chester and Kutztown for the regional title.
DAVENPORT LEADS PSAC RUNNERUP SOFTBALL TO FOURTH STRAIGHT NCAA TOURNAMENT ESU’s softball team posted the fourth-most wins in program history, going 38-12, while reaching the PSAC championship game and earning an NCAA Tournament berth for the fourth consecutive year. Junior pitcher Sarah Davenport had another standout season in the circle, earning All-America honors for the third straight year and becoming the fifth pitcher in PSAC history to reach 1,000 career strikeouts. She was NFCA second team and D2CCA third team All-America and was named to both All-Region first teams and the All-PSAC East first team. Davenport earned national recognition
Sarah Davenport
after her third career perfect game on April 11, finishing the campaign with a 25-12 record, three saves, a 2.10 ERA, 28 complete games, 10 shutouts, and 14 double-digit strikeout games – including a pair with 14 strikeouts. Senior catcher Delaney Ridgell became the second All-America selection in program history after being named to both the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) and D2CCA third teams. She was D2CCA All-Region first team for the third straight year and was NFCA All-Region and All-PSAC East first team. Ridgell led the Warriors with a .417 batting average and 68 hits, including 23 multi-hit games. Defensively she had a .997 fielding percentage. Sophomore infielder Kinsley Proepper earned her first All-Region first team honors from both organizations and was first team All-PSAC East, setting school records for on-base percentage (.494) and hitting streak (27 games).
Delaney Ridgell
Softball Team
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WARRIOR SPIRIT Walker Zampella (10)
BASEBALL EARNS FIFTH STRAIGHT NCAA BID, SHARES PSAC EAST REGULAR SEASON TITLE Following its first Atlantic Region title in 2025, ESU’s baseball team reached the postseason again this spring, going 37-16 with a 21-7 conference record to earn a share of the PSAC East title. The Warriors had a 14-game winning streak that spanned most of April, the third-longest in program history, featuring 12 straight conference wins. They had four walk-off wins, three vs. PSAC opponents, including a two-run homer by Ryan Manning to take down Saint Anselm in February, and two game-winning base hits by Easton Albert to finish a fourgame sweep of Shippensburg, and their 11-inning win over Gannon in the PSAC quarterfinals. Second baseman Walker Zampella and starting pitcher Ryan Dewees earned All-Atlantic Region honors from the ABCA, NCBWA and D2CCA, and relief pitcher Cole Dymek was also honored by the latter two organizations. All three were named to All-PSAC East teams, joined by outfielder Troy Davis and starting pitcher Ethan Woods. The Warriors took home two major divisional awards as well – third baseman Zander Condeelis was named the top freshman, and John Kochmansky was named PSAC East Coach of the Year for the third time. Ryan Dewees
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Women’s Tennis Team
Jenna Kastell and Ariel Kelsick
WOMEN’S TENNIS WINS PSAC EAST REGULAR SEASON TITLE ESU’s women’s tennis team continued its upward trajectory in 2025-26, cementing itself atop the PSAC East with a 19-5 overall record, setting a school record for wins, and 5-0 conference mark. The season included a 5-2 road win at Bloomsburg to clinch the divisional title in late April, ESU’s first win over the Huskies in 47 years. The Warriors also set a school record with 13 straight wins and were a flawless 5-0 at the newly renovated Wolbers Courts.
Lea Stefanovic
ESU had five All-PSAC East selections with Ariel Kelsick and Jenna Kastell honored on the first team in singles and also as a doubles team, and Audrey Conover and Alice Ehrenlechner earning second team recognition in singles. Troy Haas repeated as PSAC East Coach of the Year, becoming the division’s fifth head coach to earn consecutive awards since the divisional split in 2005. The Warriors had seven PSAC East Athlete of the Week awards, with the top two singles players, Lea Stefanovic and Kelsick, splitting six and Kastell earning the seventh. esualumni.org
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WARRIOR SPIRIT Jalen Cook
Luke Stevenosky
AMAZON.COM/ESUWARRIORS
Anthony Voto
VOTO, STEVENOSKY EARN ALL-AMERICA HONORS, COOK NAMED PSAC CHAMPIONSHIPS OUTSTANDING FIELD ATHLETE Anthony Voto earned All-America status in both the hammer throw and shot put, and Luke Stevenosky was All-America in the javelin, to lead ESU’s four national qualifiers during the men’s outdoor track and field season. Jalen Cook (high jump) and Nasir Heard (triple jump) also went to the national championships.
WARRIORS GEAR ON AMAZON! 28 the alumni herald
ESU was third at the PSAC Championships led by Cook, a freshman who broke conference and meet records in the high jump that had stood since 1989 and 1996, respectively, by clearing 2.19m (7-2 1/4). Voto (hammer) and Stevenosky (javelin) both defended their PSAC outdoor titles and broke school records in their events during the spring season. Overall, ESU had nine USTFCCA AllRegion honors across seven events.
Porschia Bennett
Shannon Harnett
ESU’s STUNT team
HARNETT AND BENNETT EARN ALLAMERICA 1ST TEAM HONORS FOR WOMEN’S TRACK & FIELD Shannon Harnett and Porschia Bennett both earned first team All-America honors in the high jump, and Harnett also competed in the triple jump and the NCAA Division II Championships hosted by Emporia State University, to lead ESU’s outdoor women’s track and field season. At the PSAC Championships, Zianna Dobson (discus) and Aina Galan (pole vault) both won conference titles as ESU placed seventh in the team standings. Dobson set ESU freshman records in both the discus and javelin, ranking in the top five in program history. Galan broke the school record in the pole vault at Delaware, then matched it at the prestigious Penn Relays and at the PSAC Championships. Harnett set new school records in both the triple jump and long jump. Six Warriors earned All-Region status from the USTFCCA across five events.
STUNT COMPLETES SECOND SEASON AT ESU The ESU STUNT team finished with 11 wins for the second straight season, posting an 11-12 mark. The season included a 4-0 weekend in Dallas, Pa., and won three of its last four contests, finishing with a 25-12 win over Misericordia. ESU was 11-12 overall and will look for an NCAA postseason run next year in the sport’s first season as an NCAA-recognized championship sport.
WOMEN’S GOLF PUTS TWO IN TOP HALF OF CONFERENCE Abby Beyer was 18th at +40 and Samantha Boger was 25th at +46 to land just inside the top half of the PSAC Championships. The Warriors placed 11th in the conference esualumni.org 29
WARRIOR SPIRIT
ESU ATHLETIC TRAINER INSPIRING FUTURE SPECIAL OLYMPICS VOLUNTEERS Just hours into their first time volunteering at the Special Olympics’ 2026 Pennsylvania Summer Games in State College in June, ESU athletic training graduate students Olympia Curley-Katrishen and Cameron Nunez had already seen enough to know they’d be back. More than just the promise of career experience, another benefit quickly stood out: the athletes’ courage over adversity, support for one another, and gratitude towards their volunteers were proof Curley-Katrishen and Nunez had found a cause they would want to be part of again and again. “I’m already signed up for next year,” Curley-Katrishen said. “I knew right away I needed to come back because the athletes were so happy to be there, they were so happy we were there, and they were the sweetest people I’ve ever met.” Already on board for next year’s games as well, Nunez also knew right away that she was part of something uniquely rewarding. “It was one of the most amazing experiences ever,” she said. Dr. Jayme Galdieri, MS, LAT, ATC, an athletic trainer in ESU’s department of intercollegiate athletics, has been involved in the Special Olympics Pennsylvania Summer Games since 2002. An athletic training student at the time, his experience at the Games inspired him to continue volunteering once he graduated and became a licensed athletic trainer. “It’s such a wholesome event,” Dr. Galdieri said. “There’s always smiles. There are never many hard feelings when it comes to winning or losing. The athletes are just there to compete and support each other in a positive way.” In 2012, Dr. Galdieri became the Special Olympics Pennsylvania Summer Games’ medical care coordinator, and he serves as the Games’ lead athletic trainer with recruitment as one of his main responsibilities, supporting nearly 2,000 athletes who compete in track and field, basketball, gymnastics, swimming and tennis. Later in June, he was an athletic trainer for Team Pennsylvania’s 91 athletes at the national games in Minneapolis, a role he also held four years ago in Orlando. “For students like Cameron and Olympia, they might go on to work in a setting where they’re working independently, so they’re going to need to be able to handle any kind of situation that comes along,” he said. “At an event like the Summer Games, they are around other trainers and physicians who have seen a lot that they can absorb and carry with them.” Dr. Galdieri credited the athletic training program’s curriculum for not only the students’ preparation, but also their willingness to dedicate their time to a cause like the Special Olympics. “It speaks volumes that ESU promotes a positive environment for the students so that when they become actual athletic trainers, they want to give back by doing things like this,” he said. As former ESU student-athletes, Curley-Katrishen and Nunez know what it means to compete at a high level. Nunez was a member of ESU’s wrestling team and Curley-Katrishen ran cross country. Both students said working with Special Olympics athletes allowed them to see athletics and athletic training from a new, refreshing perspective. Whether volunteers were taping ankles, treating bruises or just showing their support, the athletes responded with gratitude.
ESU athletic training graduate students Cameron Nunez and Olympia Curley-Katrishen with Dr. Jayme Galdieri, MS, LAT, ATC, center, an athletic trainer in ESU’s Department of Intercollegiate Athletics.
“They were so appreciative of the small things we did for them and so grateful for us being there to volunteer, that it really showed how much it means to them to be able to have this opportunity to compete,” Nunez said. Curley-Katrishen saw that sentiment firsthand when she treated an athlete after a hard fall during basketball, only for the athlete to run right back to his teammates. “He was so excited to be there he just thanked me and said he needed to get back to supporting his team,” she said. With high temperatures to contend with during the Games, making sure athletes were properly hydrated was a major focus. “Many of the athletes go off some of their medications to compete, which makes them even more susceptible to heat illness, strokes or seizures,” Curley-Katrishen said. “We made sure to keep them hydrated and if they were competing outdoors, get them right into the shade after competing.” Both students said they returned home from the Games with more experience and perspective than they anticipated, and are eager to do it all over again. “I can’t wait to go back next year,” Nunez said.
30 the alumni herald
BE PART OF A LIFE-CHANGING STORY Scholarship support played a meaningful role in Nasir Griffin’s college experience. Through annual donor events and interactions with supporters of the men’s basketball program, Nasir gained a deeper appreciation for the people who invest in student success. He especially valued the relationships he built with alumni and supporters who followed the team’s journey and celebrated its accomplishments.
“Somebody else is investing in me. I would be doing them a disservice if I’m not giving them my all.” Those connections reinforced his commitment to making the most of every opportunity both on and off the court.
NASIR GRIFFIN
Barbara Mayfield Men’s Basketball Annual Scholarship Sandra K. Hogue ‘82 Men’s Basketball Annual Scholarship Dr. Patricia Graham Men’s Basketball Annual Scholarship 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Men’s Basketball Annual Scholarship Warrior Athletics Annual Scholarship
Anique Hazebroek’s scholarship has made attending ESU and swimming on the collegiate level possible.
“The scholarships have made my dreams come true. University is cheaper in the Netherlands but they don’t have the athletics. I’ve been swimming since I was 11 years old, but in the Netherlands, I would’ve had to stop swimming at the college level. I wouldn’t be able to come here without the scholarship.”
ANIQUE HAZEBROEK
Peng Zhang Swimming Annual Scholarship
BE A DIFFERENCE MAKER THROUGH THE GIFT OF SCHOLARSHIP. Contact the ESU Foundation at esufoundation@esufoundation.org or call 570-422-3333.
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CLASS NOTES
’89
JIM POKRIVSAK ’89 was recently inducted into the National Football Foundation Lehigh Valley Chapter following a long career in high school athletics and administration. A graduate of Easton Area High School, Pokrivsak was a multi-sport athlete in football and baseball before going on to earn multiple degrees at East Stroudsburg University. He later served as the freshman football coach at Pleasant Valley High School and as an assistant coach at Nazareth Area High School before becoming athletic director at Easton Area High School, where he helped lead a period of sustained success that included multiple state, league, and district championships.
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1990s
’93
MARY ELLEN PARDO ’93 was recognized in March 2025 as one of the Bergen County Commission on the Status of Women Women’s History Month Distinguished Honorees. Selected under the theme “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating and Inspiring Generations,” she was honored for contributions to education and community leadership. The recognition celebrates women who educate and inspire future generations.
’93
MICHAEL STRACCO ’93 serves as director of the Pride Alliance of Passaic County. He taught at every level from seventh grade through graduate school before retiring from education on July 1, 2025. The Pride Alliance supports advocacy and community-building initiatives in Passaic County.
’94
DOUG LEONZI ’94 was inducted into the National Football Foundation Lehigh Valley Chapter following an accomplished football career at both Parkland High School and East Stroudsburg University. Leonzi graduated from Parkland as the school’s all-time passing leader before becoming a four-year varsity letter winner at ESU, where he earned All-Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference and All-American honors as a receiver while setting the school’s single-season receiving yards record at the time of his graduation. Today, he serves as senior managing director at Truist Investment Services and has earned national recognition from Bank Investment Consultant, Barron’s, and Forbes, along with the Truist Sterling Award for elite advisors. His expertise has also been featured in Entrepreneur, Fortune, and Bloomberg Businessweek, establishing him as a leader in the financial services industry.
’95
KEVIN BEAVER ’95 was inducted into the Saugerties Sports Hall of Fame during its 61st induction banquet in March 2026. A standout threesport athlete at Saugerties High School, Beaver was recognized for accomplishments in golf, basketball and baseball, as well as his collegiate baseball career at East Stroudsburg University. The Hall of Fame honors athletes and supporters who have made lasting contributions to Saugerties athletics.
’97
MARK BYERS ’97 M’00 was named executive director of the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association, becoming the ninth leader of the organization since its founding in 1913. The PIAA governs interscholastic athletics across Pennsylvania.
1980s
’81
LAURA CANFIELD ’81 was honored by the United States Tennis Association with the Barbara Williams Service Award at its Annual Meeting & Conference on April 30, 2026, in Orlando, Fla. A longtime leader in the tennis community, she serves as co-founder and program director of the Bucks County Tennis Association and is currently in her fifth consecutive term on the USTA Board of Directors, recognized for her decades of service, leadership, and commitment to growing the game.
1970s
’75
ROBERT WHALEN ’75 led the varsity boy’s tennis program at the Delaware Valley School District from 1994 to 2004, guiding the team to seven undefeated regular seasons and seven district championships. His teams also compiled a 44-0 record from 1994 to 1996. During that span, 12 players won district singles and doubles titles and advanced to the PIAA State Championships.
’98
’03
KEVIN NAGLE ‘00 M’04 was named to the Lehigh ValleyPocono Sports Hall of Fame following a standout football career at ESU. Nagle earned first-team All-Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference East honors all four years from 1997 through 2000, led the Warriors in tackles each season, and was named PSAC Defensive Player of the Year twice in 1998 and 2000. A three-time All-American, he finished his career with 477 tackles, second-most in school history, including 45 tackles for loss. In 2019, he was voted one of the top 150 most influential PSAC football players of all time. Following graduation, Nagle attended preseason camp with the Washington Redskins before playing seven seasons in the Arena Football League. CARA FEEHAN MILLER ’01 was named director of student services for the Radnor Township School District, effective July 1, 2025. She served the district for 11 years and brings more than 20 years of experience in education, including 18 years in special education and five years in administration. Miller also served on the East Stroudsburg University Alumni Board from 2017 to 2020. JESSICA CURTIS ’03 launched Bespoke Brims at The Hatty Wagon, where she serves as CEO and Founder. The mobile custom hat bar travels across the Northeast, allowing guests to design and personalize their own custom hats at fairs, festivals, weddings, corporate, and private events.
2000s
’01
’08
KATIE DUQUETTE ‘08 began a role as building-based substitute teacher at Maryvale Intermediate School. The position supports instructional continuity within the school.
’12
BARON VANDERBURG ’12 made history when he was sworn in as a supervisor for Palmer Township, becoming the first Black individual to hold the role since the township’s founding in 1857. He was appointed to fill the seat of the late Charles “Zeke” Bellis. Vanderburg also previously served five years on the Easton Area School Board.
’13
RAHUL CHHABRA ’13 started a position as Senior Product Consultant at Lincoln Financial Group, Radnor, Pa.
’14
BRYAN THOMSON ’14 began a new role as digital assurance and transparency senior manager at PwC in Philadelphia, Pa. The firm provides audit, consulting and advisory services worldwide.
’17
DANIELLE DUNGEE ’17 has been with Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine since graduating, building her career in Medical Affairs, and in 2024 she was promoted to medical affairs franchise manager, where she gets to combine her love of science with her passion for people. Working in neuroscience, Danielle helps connect medical research with real world care by supporting education and scientific dialogue for healthcare professionals across the country.
1990s
’00
KELLY (CUSTIS) SPRINKLE ‘98 M’99 is an adjunct instructor in exercise and sport science at Wilson College, where she supports undergraduate and graduate academic programs. Sprinkle earned both her Bachelor of Science in Movement Studies & Exercise Science in 1998 and her Master of Science in Exercise Physiology with a concentration in Cardiac Rehabilitation in 1999. Prior to her current role, she served as assistant teaching professor in the kinesiology department at Penn State Mont Alto from 2004-2023, followed by positions as exercise specialist at WellSpan Rehabilitation at Deatrick Commons and, currently, exercise physiologist with WellSpan Cardiac Rehabilitation.
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’19
TYLER DURFEY, M.S. ’19, ’20, serves as a senior sports analyst at Guber Sports, LLC in a hybrid role based in Allentown, Pa. Specializing in sports betting analysis, he focuses on market behavior, predictive modeling, and risk assessment across U.S. and international sports.
’18
CARISSA CEBALLO ’20, LPC began a role as group facilitator with Adult Behavioral Health at St. Luke’s University Health Network in Bethlehem, Pa. A licensed professional counselor, she supports behavioral health services within the network, which serves communities across Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
SEND US YOUR CLASS NOTES ONLINE FORM esualumni.org/class-note EMAIL alumni@esufoundation.org
34 the alumni herald
SAMANTHA L. FLEITMAN ’25 serves as assistant director of admissions at East Stroudsburg University where, where she supports recruitment efforts and helps guide prospective students through the admissions process.
SYDNEY CURRIE ’25 is serving as audit staff I at EisnerAmper, where she began in November 2025 and supports audit engagements and client financial reporting.
CARISSA IACONA ’18 joined the East Stroudsburg University Foundation as associate director of development, bringing her experience and ESU pride back to campus in support of the University’s mission. She now plays a key role in advancing fundraising and engagement efforts that strengthen opportunities for students and the broader ESU community.
2020s
’20
’25 2000s
’18
JILEAN PINK ‘18 began a role as research associate at Sanofi Pasteur. The organization focuses on vaccine research and development.
CHRISTIAN TORRES ‘25 serves as director of operations at Soaky Mountain Waterpark, where he plays a key role in overseeing daily operations and ensuring a safe, efficient, and enjoyable experience for guests.
ANDREW STINE ’25 is an assistant revenue manager at Skytop Lodge, where he has been working for the past 11 months in an on-site role supporting revenue strategy and operations.
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 RITCHEY J. RICCI ’65
SANDRA “PINKY” O’NEIL-SEILER ’57
Ritchey J. Ricci, 83, of Easton, Pa., was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, educator, and engaged community member, Ritchey made a lasting impact on all who knew him. Born in Easton, he was the son of the late John and Marianne (Bush) Ricci.
Sandra “Pinky” O’Neil-Seiler, 91, was an ESU Alumni Association Board member emeritus, a long-time supporter of ESU through multiple scholarships, a member of the 1893 Society and Loyalty Society, and also co-chair of the Class of 1957 fundraising campaign.
Dr. Douglas L. Nay, 82, of Hampton Township, N.J., joined ESU in 2015 and served as an associate professor of business management during his length of service to the university.
Ricci dedicated more than 35 years to education within the Easton Area School District. After earning his Principal Certification from Lehigh University, he served in several administrative roles, including Assistant Principal at Easton Area Middle School and Easton Area High School. In November 1990, he became Principal of Easton Area Middle School, a role he held with distinction through the 1990s.
O’Neil-Seiler attended ESU where she received her bachelors in science. It was there she met her first husband, Philip O’Neil. Together they raised three sons in Richboro, Pa., filling their lives with sports, camping, and music. With Pinky’s second marriage to Karl Seiler, she gained a daughter and filled her life with dancing and travel.
Nay was deeply passionate about his education and career. He spent 37 years with Dun & Bradstreet, where he grew his impact over time and ultimately served as senior vice president. Simultaneously, he pursued and earned his doctorate from Pace University. Following his retirement from D&B, he continued to share his knowledge and experience through teaching.
In addition to his career in education, Ritchey earned a degree in funeral services in the mid-1970s and worked in his family’s business, Ricci Memorial Chapels, continuing a proud family tradition of service. Ritchey had a deep love of travel and cherished the experiences and memories made exploring new places with family and friends.
He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Merryl A. Koch; his three children, Liz Ann; Chrystie and her spouse, David; and Payson and his spouse, Carlin; his six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Roberta “Bobbi” Ricci ’66; his daughter, Krissy McCracken and her husband, Kevin, and their children, James and Reegan; his son, Jason Ricci; and his siblings, Karen and Jay.
IRVIN MILLER, JR. ’82
ROBERT JOSEPH GUZZO ‘67
Irvin Miller, Jr., 69, of Doylestown, Pa., studied health and physical education at ESU before he participated in the 1980 Ironman Triathlon in Hawaii, achieving 44th place worldwide.
Bob Guzzo ‘67, 82, was a member of the ESU Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 1982.
FEBRUARY 15, 2026
DR. DOUGLAS NAY
MARCH 25, 2026
JANUARY 23, 2026
At George School in Newtown, Pa., he served as assistant athletic director and physical education teacher, coaching cross country, wrestling, and track and field. Subsequently, he joined New Hope-Solebury School as a coach and staff member. In 2009, he played a key role in re-establishing the Solebury wrestling team while simultaneously coaching at both New Hope-Solebury and Solebury School. Miller was a member of Doylestown Lodge No. 245 F.&A.M. and William Penn Lodge No. 52 F.&A.M. in Philadelphia. A passionate motorcyclist, he spent 13 years as a Motorcycle Safety Instructor for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, later excelling in Police Operator Training course; and, then becoming a certified Police Motorcycle Instructor.
DECEMBER 9, 2025
Pinky wore many hats–all of them bright and colorful including: health teacher at William Tenant High School; co-owner of Shohola Campground; recreation director Warwick Woods; exercise and dance classes; column writer, “Dancing Around with Pinky O’Neil.” In 1996, she competed in Ms. Senior America pageant as Ms. Senior Virginia, remaining deeply involved with pageants. O’Neil-Seiler spent the final chapter of her life in The Villages, Fla., serving as president of The Villages Singles Club and founding the Got Talent Group performing and making many wonderful friends along the way. She is survived by her three sons, Jack, Scott, and Shawn O’Neil, and her stepdaughter Beth Seiler.
MAY 26, 2026
history. A leader of the team, he was named the program’s Outstanding Wrestler for all four years of his time at ESU, and was the co-winner of the department’s Senior Athlete Award.
While at ESU, he earned national honors in three of his four seasons wrestling for the Warriors. A three-time NAIA All-American, he was ESU’s first and only NAIA Champion in 1966. The same year, he finished sixth at the NCAA Championships, becoming one of ESU’s first three All-Americans at the University Division.
A native of Easton, Pa., Guzzo coached at North Carolina State University for 30 years, where he won 13 Atlantic Coast Conference championships. With the Wolfpack, he coached 86 ACC Champions, 24 All-Americans, and four national champions. Guzzo was inducted into both the NC State Athletics Hall of Fame and the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.
Guzzo was a PSAC champion at 123 pounds as well in 1966, ESU’s sixth conference champion in program
Guzzo is survived by his wife, Janis Fish, their two daughters, Gina and Valerie; son Robert, and daughter Kristi.
MEMORIAL GIFTS
may be made through the ESU Foundation at esufoundation.org/givenow. For personal assistance, please call 570-422-3333.
He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Annette (White) Miller.
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ALUMNI
HELEN M. ADAMS ‘55 JAYME L. AINSLEY M’11 MATTHEW S. ANDERSON ‘97 MATTHEW T. BARRETT ‘79 ADINE K. BEEKER ‘69 ANNA M. BEHL ‘85 JAN R. BELIVEAU ‘64 THOMAS BLACKTON ‘55 PAULINE J. BOND ‘74 ALLEN C. BORDA ‘72 RONALD F. BREISCHAFT 65 NONA CALAFIORE GAIL A. CASSIDY ‘62 GERALDINE A. CLARK ‘56 ROSE M. COLEMAN ‘62 CATHERINE M. COLLINS M’73 JOHN F. CONSUGAR ‘04 DONNA M. CORROCHER ‘00 M’02 SHERRY M. CRAWFORD ‘57 M’80 MATTHEW J. CURRAN ‘60
CHRISTINE B. DAVIS ‘58 ANDREW J. DEVINE ‘89 WILLIAM G. DICKERSON ‘05 SANDRA DIPAOLA ‘80 DOLORES M. DUNSTAN ‘80 M’07 WILLIAM P. ECKENRODE 72 PHILIP O. FARACE ‘69 M’77 MARILYN M. FERRETT ‘77 CYNTHIA G. FINK ‘53 KAREN F. FRYE ‘64 JOSEPH J. GALAN ‘71 MARY T. GALAYDA ‘95 M’03 THOMAS H. GRAINGER ‘86 JEANEEN A. GRIFFIN ‘70 ERNEST R. GROMLICH ‘60 DAVID F. GRUBE ‘73 STANFORD A. GROSS ‘55 JAN D. HALL ‘65 FRANK HESSINGER ‘64 STEPHEN J. HOOG ‘66
WILLIAM D. HOTTENSTEIN ‘62 WAYNE A. HOWELL ‘63 EILEEN RICHMOND KARPE ‘54 JOHN F. KEGLEY ‘69 MARY G. KERNAGHAN ‘73 NANCY J. KNOTTS ‘73 DAVID A. KRAJCI ‘89 NANCY C. KREMM ‘75 SANDRA L. LATHROP ‘62 WALTER LESSUN, JR. ‘70 PATRICIA A. LIPTOCK ‘59 GERALD T. LONG 79 CHANIN E. LORENT ‘95 M’98 MARGARET A. MAIALE ‘62 ANNABELLE L. MALONE ‘64 RICHARD E. MATUS ‘74 DONNA J. MCMICKEN ‘67 HARRIET H. MECKES ‘69 RICHARD H. MICHAEL ‘61 KARIN E. MICHAEL ‘62 JAMES M. MEIXSELL ‘73
JOHN P. MORLEY ‘92 LYNN F. MURRAY ‘72 LINDA A. MURTAGH ‘82 EDWIN A. NEUMANN ‘64 THOMAS R. NEVIN ‘74 MICHAEL E. PAHIRA ‘05 HENRY E. PEARSON ‘52 LISA M. PIRAGAS ‘2 CHRISTIAN J. PITTENGER ‘23 NEVIN L. POSEY ‘69 LEONARD W. PUDELKA ‘61 PAULINE M. RANDOLPH ‘74 EARL W. RANDOLPH ‘73 ALLISON M. RANKIS ‘08 DOROTHY E. RABEL ‘69 JUDITH RISSMILLER ‘67 JOHN F. RITCHIE M’96 RUSSELL H. ROPER ‘58 GERARD J. RUSHIN ‘56 JOANNE SAM ‘74 JOHN S. SARIK ‘65
JAMES F. SCHIFALACQUA ‘83 LORRAINE T. SCHULMAN M’73 ANDREW T. SCOTCHLAS ‘85 LARRY R. SEBRING ‘72 ELIZABETH A. SHULTZ ‘55 JAMI A. SILFIES ‘96 NANCY E. STAFFIERI ‘72 PATRICIA M. TROSS DANAHER ‘62 LEONARD J. VENDER M’74 GISELE A. WEATHERMAN ‘95 BARBARA M. WEIKERT ‘70 M’76 JAMES F. WENKER M’84 SUSAN M. WILLIAMS ‘76 ALEXANDER P. WIRTH ‘11 ANN M. WOOD ‘63 ROBERT J. ZBYLICKI ‘71
WILLIAM M. SIDLOSKY ELIZABETH UNRUH FRIENDS PETER AHNERT FLOYD M. FRISBIE WILLIAM GRANT CHARLES E. KRATZ JOHN G. KULBA PATRICIA LITTS-YOUNG ROSE M. MORGAN JOAN G. PERFETTI BONNIE SALYERS GEORGE W. VANGORDER BETTY WAAS DEBORAH WHEATLEY CAROLE G. WHITMORE
FACULTY & STAFF PATRICIA GUTH PAULA M. KELBERMAN RONALD J. MEYERS
In Memoriam refletets alumni, faculty, staff and friends who passed away up to July 12, 2026.
FLASHBACK
Homecoming
CELEBRATING AMERICA: Past, Present & Future was the theme during Homecoming Week 1976 commemorating the United States Bicentennial, which marked the 200th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. As our nation celebrates America’s 250th birthday, known as the Semiquincentennial, on July 4, 2026, we want to see your patriotic photos from the summer! Email your photo with name and details to cwilkie@esufoundation.org and we’ll put a compilation together in the next edition!
Photos from the 1976 Stroud Yearbook.
200 Prospect Street East Stroudsburg, PA 18301-2999
THE STEWARD AND THE PRINCE Jack Burns, Class of 2029, left, and Jesse Carey, Class of 2027, perform Stephen Sondheim’s Into the Woods on March 25, 2026, at Smith-McFarland Theater. Photo by Renee Broady