BOARD PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Dear Alumni and Friends of PennWest Clarion,
When I first joined the Clarion University Foundation Board in 2006, America was a different place. We were on the verge of the smartphone era, social media was still a curiosity, and few of us could imagine how technology would change how we learn, work, and give. Over these years of cultural transformation, our university has evolved with equal boldness – reimagining itself, modernizing its campus, and strengthening its mission to serve students from every corner of Pennsylvania and beyond.
In those early years, Clarion remained rooted in its proud heritage as a place where hard-working students found opportunity and community. In 2010, Clarion experienced a decade of reinvention – embracing online education, expanding graduate programs, and creating new ways for working adults to earn degrees while balancing family and career. During that time, with the help of fundraising managed by the CUF, Clarion undertook one of the most ambitious construction projects in campus history: the transformation of Tippin Gymnasium into a modern, multipurpose athletics and wellness complex. Tippin now stands as a vibrant symbol of both school pride and student vitality – a place where Golden Eagles train, compete, and gather as one Clarion family.
As we entered the late 2010s, Clarion would again face profound change. The world shifted almost overnight with the COVID-19 pandemic, forcing higher education into new modes of teaching and connecting. Clarion’s early embrace of online learning positioned it to adapt quickly, ensuring students could continue their education safely and effectively. Dr. Dale-Elizabeth Pehrsson also helped lead the historic integration that joined Clarion, Edinboro, and California universities of Pennsylvania to form Pennsylvania Western University, or PennWest. That integration created a single institution with three proud campuses, shared resources, and expanded academic opportunities, while preserving the distinctive identity and culture of each campus.
Through all these transitions, the Clarion spirit has remained steady: resilient, compassionate, and committed to transforming lives through education. It has been my honor to serve for 11 years as president of the Clarion University Foundation Board, during these years of progress and partnership. Together, we strengthened scholarships, built endowments, and ensured that generations of students could access the same lifechanging education that shaped so many of us.
I am profoundly grateful to my fellow board members, especially Mark Demich, who succeeds me as board president, to the amazing Foundation staff, and to each donor whose generosity kept our mission alive through every season of change. You have sustained Clarion’s promise to welcome talent from all backgrounds and send graduates into the world prepared, principled, and proud.
As I conclude my service, I do so with gratitude and confidence. Under the leadership of Dr. Jon Anderson, Clarion’s story will continue within the PennWest family, stronger, more connected, and ever true to its roots. Tippin’s lights will keep shining. The classrooms – on campus and online – will keep buzzing. And the future, as always, belongs to our students.
With heartfelt thanks and optimism,
Jane K. France President, Clarion University Foundation Board of Directors (outgoing)
WELCOMING OUR NEW BOARD PRESIDENT
MARK DEMICH
President, Clarion University Foundation Board of Directors
As I embark upon my first year as president of your Clarion University Foundation Board of Directors, I am humbled and proud to serve in this capacity. The challenge is daunting as I follow in the footsteps of Jane France and the many accomplishments under her watch. Jane’s nearly 20 years of service has left the Foundation in a strong position. With an endowment in excess of $55 million, we are able to generate almost $1.3 million in annual scholarship dollars, awarded to deserving students from all backgrounds. On behalf of a grateful Clarion community, I thank Jane for her many significant contributions.
From here, our challenge is to advance these considerable achievements. In May 2026, we will celebrate the first graduating class that has spent their entire undergraduate tenure as students of PennWest Clarion. Under the strong leadership of Dr. Jon Anderson, we are poised to strengthen our standing as a world-class institution of higher education that positions graduates for success.
I look forward to working with the PennWest leadership, the dedicated Foundation staff led by executive director Max Smith, and the outstanding fellow members of the Clarion University Foundation Board of Directors. Together, we will thrive.
My sincere thanks to all, and special thanks to the benefactors who continue to support the Golden Eagles.
Best wishes for continued success.
Mark Demich
President Mark Demich is a long-standing board member of Clarion University Foundation, Inc., having served as the president-elect for the last 10 years. Mark is a recently retired partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers, having led the Global Partner Affairs function since 2002. A native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in accounting from Clarion University, is a certified public accountant and a member of both the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Mark and his wife, Debbie, live in Westport, Connecticut, and enjoy sports and traveling. They value the importance of spending time with family and also enjoy spoiling their new grandson.
CLARION UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION, INC. BY THE NUMBERS 2024-2025
$1.8M IN GIFTS
12 NEW ENDOWMENTS, SCHOLARSHIPS AND FUNDS TOTALING $344K
$1.3M AWARDED TO 620 PENNWEST CLARION STUDENTS
NEW MILESTONE REACHED THE ENDOWMENT GROWS 10% TO $55.3 MILLION BY THE END OF FY25
PENNWEST CLARION AWARDED
$5 MILLION IN SCHOLARSHIPS LAST YEAR 25% OF THOSE WERE PROVIDED BY CLARION UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION, INC.
NEW
FUNDS 7-01-24 THROUGH 6-30-25
321 World Down Syndrome Day Fund, Clarion Campus
The Charlotte Anne Abbey Scholarship Fund
Kenneth E. Gaudi ’66 Football Scholarship
Dr. David D. McFadden ’84 Scholarship
PennWest College of Education, Arts and Humanities
PennWest College of Health Sciences and Human Services
PennWest College of Science, Technology and Business
PennWest Student Scholarship
PennWest Student Scholarship — Online
Randall Potter Psychology Scholarship
PSECU Endowment Scholarship Fund
Roth Family Scholarship Endowment
Generations of students have risen from beneficiary to benefactor. The steps to success are built with a helping hand.
CLARION FOOTBALL FIELD NAMED IN TRIBUTE TO COACH AL JACKS
On the snowy 1963 evening when Al Jacks arrived at Clarion State College to begin his tenure as head coach of Golden Eagles football, he was leaving the athletic director’s office when he encountered Bo Garritano.
“What do you do?” he inquired of Garritano.
“I play football,” the freshman defensive tackle responded.
“You’re kind of chunky, aren’t you,” Jacks said, more a statement than a question.
Those words might have left a sour taste for some, but Garritano was unperturbed. It gave him insight into traits of his new coach: “He had a sense of humor, and he wanted his team lean, mean and ready to play.”
Jacks knew how to make those things happen, which translated into gridiron wins. In his 19 years – the longest tenure of any Golden Eagles football coach – he never had a losing season. He led his teams to PSAC championships (1966, 1977 and 1980) and six PSAC West titles (1966, 1967, 1969, 1977, 1978 and 1980). He remains eighth all-time in wins among PSAC coaches with 128.
Accolades include induction into the 1989 inaugural class of Clarion Sports Hall of Fame, induction into the prestigious Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame, and induction into the Robert “Tick” Cloherty – Western Chapter of the PA Sports Hall of Fame.
Jacks maintained relationships with his players even after they left Clarion, always welcoming them back to campus and to his home.
“He remained our touchstone to Clarion, our alma mater, and to our teammates,” said Garritano, who played for Jacks from 1963 to 1965 and developed a close friendship with him after graduating.
As chair of and the driving force behind the Clarion Football Alumni Association, Garritano said he had many requests over the years to start a campaign to name the Memorial Stadium football field after Al Jacks. Naming rights carried a price tag of $1 million in donations.
“We gave it two formal starts using our Clarion Football Alumni Newsletter. Each time, the amount was insurmountable with many of our football alumni being in the education field,” he said.
While the football alumni focused on funding other areas – including building up their annual golf outing and naming it in Jacks’ honor, redesigning the locker room, and endowing the Dare to Dream football scholarship – they kept the pot simmering for the naming rights.
“We were slowly building up to nearly $750,000 in donations,” Garritano said.
In spring 2024. Dr. Laurie Bernotsky, then interim president of PennWest, convened a meeting with Garritano, Football Alumni Association member Dave Osikowicz and key Clarion administrators.
“They asked if we could raise (an additional) $250,000,” Garritano recalls. Without hesitation, Garritano and Osikowicz said they could.
PennWest’s Advancement team and the Football Alumni Association worked together on the final push, which raised $300,000.
The playing surface at Memorial Stadium was dedicated Aug. 28 as Al Jacks Field. The pregame ceremony – attended by Jacks’ family and friends, athletes he coached and mentored, colleagues and the community – was held as the Golden Eagles kicked off the 2025 season.
“It gives me great pleasure to announce the naming of Al Jacks Field, in honor of a legendary sports figure in our community and the commonwealth,” said PennWest president Dr. Jon Anderson. “For so many years he was a mentor and leader for countless young men in our football program, and he’s rightly regarded
as one of the giants of college football in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference.
“As a coach, (Jacks) helped forge the studentathletes who played for him into great citizens, great leaders and great people,” said Dr. Wendy Snodgrass, director of intercollegiate athletics. “The bond they built as teammates has never been more apparent than it is now, with so many offering their support to rename the field in honor of Coach Jacks.”
Jacks passed away in 2023, but he had entrusted Garritano with a special message:
“Bo I did not do this alone, if and when it happens, please tell those in attendance my accomplishments came from the support of my family, our hardworking coaches and the dedicated players over those 19 years.”
Jacks’ son, Craig, echoed his father’s appreciation of the support by the university, players and community.
“He was always proud of the relationships he was able to build with so many people. He recognized that his successes were not just his own, but the result of hard work of so many student-athletes, coaches and members of the community.”
Al Jacks field dedication by Bo Garritano
Distinguished 2025 AWARDS
PennWest Clarion Alumni Association presented its annual Distinguished Awards March 15, 2025 in Gemmell Student Center. The premier event was established in 1966 to recognize alumni and friends who, over an extended period of time and/or through a singular achievement, have achieved exemplary success in their own field, extraordinary service to Clarion, their community, state, nation or all of humanity.
Distinguished FACULTY
DR. KEVAN M. YENERALL
Yenerall, political science professor at PennWest since 2000, has facilitated 50 Clarion students’ participation at nine national party conventions, a presidential inauguration, and seven Inside Washington seminars. He is faculty liaison for The Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars and advisor of the Clarion College Democrats. He established the Joseph and Mary Ellen Yenerall Politics & Public Service Scholarship to honor his grandparents and invest in Clarion students’ participation in seminars and internships in the nation’s capital. Yenerall is co-author or author of several books about politics. Local, regional, national and international news outlets have sought his political expertise. He resides in the Pittsburgh area with his wife, Supannee.
Distinguished YOUNG ALUMNUS KEVIN BRADY JR. ’08
Brady is chief financial officer of ANL, Inc., a construction firm specializing in highprofile projects across New York City. He has been pivotal in shaping the company’s financial strategy, overseeing budgeting, forecasting, and cost management for multimillion-dollar initiatives. His leadership ensures the financial health and operational efficiency of the organization while delivering sustainable growth. Brady has built a strong career in financial strategy and strategic leadership. He has been key in managing the preservation of New York City’s architectural landmarks, including the award-winning Prospect Park Wellhouse Landmark Renovation and the historic Tavern on the Green restoration. As a student, he was a member of the Golden Eagles football team. He lives in St. Augustine, Florida, with his wife, Dr. Kaylan Brady, and their two children, Kyle and Hailey.
Distinguished ALUMNA SHEILAH (LINGENFELTER) GULAS ’83
A 2017 inductee into the National Fastpitch Coaches Association Hall of Fame, Gulas retired after a three-decade career as a head softball coach with a cumulative record of 926-489-1 (.654). From 1987 to 2017, Gulas was head softball coach at Allegheny College, Meadville, Pa.; Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio; then Ashland (Ohio) University. Her Allegheny coaching record was 120-39 (.755) and included the 1988 season when the Gators finished as national runner-up and she was named NCAA Division III National Coach of the Year. At Ashland, Gulas’ Eagles made 12 NCAA Division II postseason appearances and had five 40-win seasons. She was Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Coach of the Year in 1998, 2009, 2010 and her last season of 2017. Gulas and her husband, George, have been married for 27 years.
Distinguished ALUMNA PATRICE M. D’ERAMO-FLACK ’86
Flack retired as vice president of Americas Marketing and Communications at Cisco. Her leadership was key to delivering experiences that drove Cisco’s growth and positioned the company as a true industry leader. Also at Cisco, she was senior director of marketing for the U.S. public sector business, a pivotal role in leading marketing efforts for a $5 billion portfolio. Flack has been a driving force in addressing mental and physical well-being, food insecurity, and support for veterans and seniors. She has been a tireless advocate for empowering women, serving as executive cosponsor of Cisco Connected and the Cisco Partner’s Empowered Women’s Network. She continues to mentor young women and girls.
Distinguished ALUMNUS
DR. KWAME R. MORTON SR. ’94
Morton is superintendent of Cherry Hill (New Jersey) Public Schools, where he previously was assistant superintendent. For his work as principal of Cherry Hill High School West, he was named the 2021 Visionary Principal of the Year/NASSP NJ State Principal of the Year. Morton’s approach to school improvement focuses on providing students with access, opportunity, rigor and support while promoting a dynamic, innovative teaching environment. At Clarion, he was a standout men’s basketball player and the Basketball Times 1994 NCAA Division II Player of the Year; he holds several school records. He and his wife, April, are the parents of 10 children and have two grandchildren.
Distinguished SERVICE
JOHN M. STONER ’75 and JANICE L. (MCMINN) STONER ’75
John and Jan Stoner met in fall 1971 at then-Clarion State College. They have forged a life that has enriched many people beyond their own family. John climbed the corporate ladder with Jackson Manufacturing, which eventually was acquired by True Temper Lawn and Garden, where he became president and general manager. Jan taught school until their daughter, Jen, was born. They opened their own sporting goods store, which Jan ran with their daughter in tow. She volunteered with Girl Scouts and fundraising for the band. When John joined the Conn-Selmer musical instrument company as president, the Stoners moved to Indiana. In his 20 years at Conn-Selmer, John led the company to great heights. Jan continued volunteer work with Meals on Wheels, tutoring, and helping at a food bank and a day center for women and children. The Stoners have often said, “We are really thankful to Clarion for everything we have.”
In appreciation of our donors
KENNEDY BROWN
I am extremely thankful and appreciative of the Weir family for choosing me as a recipient for such an honorable scholarship and gift, especially as I finish up my last year as a Clarion student. I have been able to accept so many opportunities while getting my education here, such as study abroad, a storm intercept trip that allowed me to see tornados up close, field courses on the eastern shore of Virginia, and various leadership positions, skills and experiences. I am so thankful for this scholarship, as it aids me tremendously in goals such as continuing my education for a master’s and Ph.D., while working in different environmental areas that need restoration and attention.
AMBASSADOR’S CLUB: $10,000 OR MORE
Estate of Ms. Charlotte A. Abbey ’55
Alpha Gamma Phi Alumni
Alpha Chi Ro Alumni
Ms. Lindsay R. Banner Cigole ’07 and Mr. Patrick Cigole
Mr. John V. Calipari ’82 and Mrs. Ellen Calipari
Mr. Gary V. Cardamone ’88 and Ms. Misha Cardamone
Clarion Football Alumni Committee
Delta Zeta Alumni
Estate of Mrs. Patricia M. (Hart) Fallon ’57
First Energy Foundation
Ms. Jane K. France ’71 and Mr. Christian L. Allison
Mr. Kenneth E. Gaudi ’66 and Mrs. Margaret Gaudi
Estate of Mrs. Janice Horn
Samuel Justus Charitable Trust
Charles E/Virginia Kaufman Fund of The Pittsburgh Foundation
Kenneth W. Beels Charitable Trust
Mr. L. Kent Kretzler ’73
Mr. Dan S. Mortland ’72 and Mrs. Cheryl S. (Stark) Mortland ’72
Mr. Charles L. Motter
Nick’s Autobody of Clarion, LLC.
Mr. Paul D. Palmer ’61 and Mrs. Paula J. Palmer
Mr. James T. Ringland and Mrs. Karen E. Ivy
Robindale Energy Services, Inc.
Mr. Scott Kroh ’74 and Mrs. Pamela J. Kroh
Dr. Kevin J. Roth ’81 and Mrs. Carol A. Roth
Sigma Sigma Sigma Alumni
Sigma Tau Gamma Alumni
Dr. Jeanne M. Slattery and *Dr. Randall Potter
Mr. John M. Stoner, Jr. ’75 and Mrs. Janice L. (McMinn) Stoner ’75
Tau Kappa Epsilon Alumni
Mrs. Carol A. (Neuberger) Truscott ’79 and Mr. John Truscott
UHS of Delaware, Inc.
Mr. James M. Whitlinger ’91
Zeta Tau Alpha Alumni
UNIVERSITY CLUB: $5,000-$9,999
Mr. Mark S. Andrekovich ’84 and Mrs. Mari K. (Pietila) Andrekovich ’87
APSCURF
Mrs. Betty Jo Banner
Mr. James Bezak
Mr. James D. Bishop
Mr. Tom K. Bowman ’77 and Mrs. Linda S. (Allison) Bowman ’77
Mr. Michael G. Casciato ’81
Mr. Enrique Conterno and Mrs. Kathleen Conterno
Mr. Raymond W. Day ’69
Ms. Jeanne M. Dennis
Enterprise Holdings Foundation
Dr. Joseph P. Grunenwald and Mrs. Janice M. Grunenwald
Mr. John M. Horton, Jr. ’92
Ms. Beth Jacks
Mr. Craig Jacks
Dr. Dean E. Jacks
Mr. Charles P. Leach, Jr. and Mrs. Sonja Leach
GIVING FROM JULY 1, 2024 – JUNE 30, 2025
Mr. Donald J. McGrath, Jr. ’82 and Mrs. Virginia C. McGrath
Mr. Wayne Norris ’65 and Mrs. Jacalyn Norris
ORIX Corporation USA
Mrs. Mary Lou H. (Herbert) Pae ’79
Pennsylvania State Employees Credit Union
Mr. Earl R. Petrucci ’64 and Mrs. Georgiana Petrucci
Phi Sigma Epsilon Alumni
Ms. Julia M. Piccolino ’23
Mrs. Susan A. (Stehle) Slike ’79
Estate of Dr. Phyllis W. Smith
Mr. Jeff T. Snodgrass and Dr. Wendy Snodgrass
Mr. Thomas L. Taormina ’76
Theta Xi Alumni
Mr. Dennis J. Twigg ’17
PRESIDENT’S CLUB: $2,500-$4,999
Anonymous Donors
Alpha Sigma Alpha Alumni
Alpha Xi Delta Alumni
Mr. Lynn Armstrong ’68
Mrs. Milissa A. (Steiner) Bauer ’84
Dr. Richard R. Castafero ’68 and Mrs. Gail L. Castafero
Colegrove Educational Trust
Mr. Mark R. Demich ’79 and Mrs. Deborah LPM Demich
Farmers National Bank
Dr. Susanne K. Fenske and Mr. Ron Fenske
Mr. Kale R. Fithian ’97
Mr. Jay E. Gainor ’74 and Mrs. Mary Kay Gainor
Ms. Alana H. Gazetski ’67
Mr. James Geiger and Mrs. Kristen Geiger
Mr. M. Scott Gemberling, J.D. ’74
GitHub
Mr. Jeffrey G. Golias ’83
Mr. Kevin M. Grecco
Mrs. Kimberly J. (Strawbridge) Hrovat ’95 and Mr. David Hrovat
Mr. Michael N. Janak ’83
Mr. Paul B. Kemble, Jr. ’68
William Klemstine Foundation
Mr. Keith J. Kochert ’98
Mr. Daniel A. Kohley ’84 and Mrs. Sheree Kohley
Mr. Raymond D. Lichauer ’70
Mr. Anthony C. Linnan ’89 and Mrs. Kathy B. (Brown) Linnan ’73
Ms. Martha L. Lojzim ’82
Mr. Barry L. McCauliff ’72
Dr. David D. McFadden ’84
Mr. Carl D. McManamy ’63 and Mrs. Charlene B. (Benninghoff) McManamy ’63
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham
Mr. James P. O’Hara ’81
The Rehab Centre, Inc. - Dr. Jason R. Jacobs
S & T Bank
Mr. Vincent V. Sands ’78 and Mrs. Theresa A. (Renz) Sands ’79
Sigma Chi Alumni
Ms. Bonnie (Siepiela) SinClair ’70
The J. M. Smucker Company
Sportsmanship 1 BB All Star Games
Swartfager Welding, Inc.
Mr. Jeffrey J. Szumigale ’82
Theta Chi Alumni
Dr. Kristopher Tkatch
Ms. Lee Ann Wentzel ’85
RISING EAGLES CLUB: $1,000-$2,499
Mr. Donald S. and Mrs. Rhonda D. Aaron
Mr. William Ackerman ’73 and Mrs. Leslie R. (Damon) Ackerman
Mr. Jeffrey L. Alley ’04
Alpha Kappa Alpha Alumni
APSCUF - Clarion Chapter
Mr. A. Craig Aston ’63 and Mrs. Susan L. Aston ’63
Mr. Edward J. Bauer ’70 and Mrs. Kathryn S. Bauer
Mr. Joseph G. Bessetti ’95
Best Wealth Management
Mr. David J. Bevevino ’77 and Mrs. Patricia K. Bevevino
Mr. Richard Bolea
Mr. William J. Brand ’63
Mrs. Nada J. (Yanshak) Brillante ’64
Mrs. Tanya and Mr. Paul Brinsky
Mr. Robert Bubb and Mrs. Marsha Bubb
Ms. Nancy Cade
Mrs. Madelon (Delp) Callen ’65
Mrs. Pamela H. (Hannaford) Cousino ’80
Mr. Ralph J. Cutruzzula ’67
David D. Davenport ’71
Mrs. Patricia D. (Revelant) Davidson ’99 and Mr. Adam P. Davidson
Mr. Louis B. Dean, Jr. ’74 and Mrs. Bea Dean
Mr. Todd A. DeIuliis ’86 and Ms. Shannon DeIuliis
Mrs. Patrice M. D’Eramo-Flack ’86 and Mr. Mark J. Flack
Mr. Christopher F. Dingman
Ms. J. D. Dunbar ’77 and Mr. Henry Faller
Dr. Timothy R. Dutrow ’76 and Mrs. Deborah A. (Dickson) Dutrow ’77
Mr. Rich G. Eckert ’10 and Mrs. Ashley Eckert
Mrs. Theresa A. (Zacherl) Edder ’91 and Mr. Paul E. Edder ’81
Mr. Richard N. Edwards and Mrs. Caroline Edwards
Dr. Dennis P. Emerick ’71 and Mrs. Susan Emerick
Mrs. Beverly A. Engle ’71 and Mr. Roger Engle
*Dr. Soga Ewedemi
Fab-Tec Industries, Inc.
Mr. Daniel A. Kohley ’84 and Mrs. Sheree Kohley
Mr. David Ferro
Five C Graphics LLC
Mr. Anthony M. Colecchi ’83 and Mrs. Danielle Colecchi
Mr. James J. Flynn and Ms. Susan L. Flynn
Dr. Benjamin Freed and Mrs. Deb Freed
Fullington Trailways LLC — Mr. Mike Fullington
Fun With Fundamentals
Mr. Norbert A. Baschnagel and Mrs. Beverly J. (Hey) Baschnagel ’77
Ms. Constance Gamaluddin
Mr. Robert J. Garritano ’66 and Mrs. Joyce A. (DeBone) Garritano
Mr. Alan Geiger
Mr. Edward F. Goth ’85 and Mrs. Lisa A. (Leach) Goth ’85
Mr. Mark Grdina
Mr. Paul R. Grecco
Mr. Robert A. Grecco
Ms. Robin and Mr. Bruce Grecco
Ms. Rhonda E. Green ’92
Mr. Jeffry S. Greenwell and Ms. Emily G. Greenwell
Mr. Robert M. Guyer ’75 and Mrs. Vicki Guyer
Lt. Col. Willis C. Hardwick
Mr. William R. Hartman ’70
Dr. Sonja V. (Vidunas) Heeter ’77 and Mr. Cliff Heeter
Mr. David L. Hill ’89
Atty. Emmanuel O. Iheukwumere ’90
ELIZABETH PHELPS
Words cannot begin to describe how thankful I am for being awarded the Helen Gendler Scholarship Endowment. In 2021, I experienced a life-altering medical event, and I lost my grandmother to Alzheimer’s disease, which changed my life trajectory from becoming a veterinarian to giving back to others as a nurse; this way, I can help others with chronic illness and help the community as they helped me. In 2023, I became an EMT to begin my journey in the medical field. I volunteer at my local fire department with my mother, who is a nurse and paramedic. I plan to work in the ICU or an emergency department, in a specialty such as pediatric and neonatal. I will continue my education to obtain a master’s degree or doctorate in nursing, so I can teach others.
Mr. John L. Jarzab, Jr. and Mrs. Cynthia L. Jarzab
Lt. Col. Louis S. Jumbercotta, USMC (Ret) ’65 and Mrs. Linda R. Jumbercotta
Mr. Robert J. Kannegieser ’79
Kappa Alpha Psi Alumni
Mrs. Cathy R. (Rhodes) Keefer ’93 and Mr. Michael R. Keefer
Mr. Charles F. Klingensmith ’61
Mrs. Roberta L. Kmiec ’71 and Mr. Dennis Kmiec
Mr. Thomas J. Komenda ’71 and Mrs. Judy Komenda
Mr. Alexander D. Kozora ’15
Ms. Deborah L. Kuhn
Mrs. Carol K. Leas ’65
Mr. Jeffrey S. Linden ’89
Mr. Donald A. Lindgren
Mrs. Mei M. Lu ’77 and Mr. Ray Lu
Mr. Minde Lu ’89
Mr. John Marinich ’75 and Mrs. Patricia S. (Semonich) Marinich ’75
Mr. Richard L. Martin ’70 and Mrs. Sharron S. Martin ’88
Mr. Kevin P. McCracken ’06
Mr. Shawn M. McGorry ’80 and Mrs. Jeanne A. (Deger) McGorry ’82
Mr. James F. McNally
Ms. Amy L. (Coon) Miller ’94 and Mr. Scott Konwinski
Mr. Melvin A. Mitchell ’80 and Mrs. Susan Mitchell
Mr. Cameron M. Moran ’12 and Ms. Chelsea Mague
Mr. David L. Moxie ’73 and Mrs. Debra Moxie
National Fuel Gas Company Foundation
New York Life Insurance Company
Mr. Charles W. Oakes ’83 and Mrs. Cheryl L. (Larson) Oakes ’82
Mr. Michael J. O’Toole, Jr. ’76
Dr. Patrick T. O’Toole ’79 and Mrs. Tracey O’Toole
Ms. Kathy L. Pape
Dr. James G. Pesek and Mrs. Karen Westfall Pesek
Phoenix Physical Therapy
Mr. Donald and Ms. Pamela Pine
Phi Delta Theta Alumni
Phi Sigma Alumni
Phi Sigma Kappa Alumni
Ms. Helen G. (Grudowski) Porter ’60
Promega Corporation
Mr. Dale P. Richards ’64 and Mrs. Andrea R. (Yanshak) Richards ’66
Mr. Mark Riesmeyer and Mrs. Sheryl Riesmeyer
Ms. Neyju Rondon
Mr. and Mrs. Gregg Schena
Mr. Elmer D. Schuetz ’70
Mrs. Janet Sessions
Mr. Brian E. Shea ’76 and Mrs. Sheryl T. (Thatcher) Shea ’76
Shotgun Sound LLC
Sigma Pi Alumni
Mrs. Emily E. (Deible) Smith ’02 and Mr. Max R. Smith
Mr. Robert R. Smith and Ms. Ann K. Smith
Ms. Teresa E. Smith
St. Marys Insurance Agency, Inc.
Mr. Jeffrey F. Azzato ’85 and Mrs. Michele Azzato
Mr. Jerry R. Starr ’89 and Mrs. Kathleen A. (Hodgson) Starr ’89
Mrs. JoEllen Steinbrunner ’67 and Mr. Karl Steinbrunner
Mr. Daniel J. Stellute ’68
Mrs. Marilyn L. Stempeck ’83
Maj. Gen. Peter J. Talleri, USMC (Ret) ’79 and Mrs. Deborah L. (Lipko) Talleri ’80
Mr. David D. Todd ’76
Mr. Steven R. Varischetti and Ms. Michelle M. Varischetti
Mr. Peter D. Vuckovich and Mrs. Anna Vuckovich
Mr. Seth E. Walker
Mr. Edward D. Wallace ’73 and Mrs. Sharon Wallace
Mr. Douglas E. Williams ’83
Mr. Matt Wilmoth and Mrs. Michele Wilmoth
Mr. Ronald J. Wilshire ’72 and Mrs. Stephanie A. (Morgan) Wilshire ’75
Ms. Dalia H. Wold
Mr. Daniel S. Wolovich ’70 and Mrs. Cherie L. (Lowe) Wolovich ’68
Dr. Paul R. Woodburne and Ms. Nancy J. Sansone
Mr. Raymond C. Zema ’76 and Mrs. Leigh B. Zema
Mr. Matthew K. Zents ’87
Mrs. Janet L. Zidansek ’72 and Mr. Anton Zidansek
Mr. Curtis L. Zimmerman ’79 and Mrs. Carrie L. (Englert) Zimmerman
CONTRIBUTORS: $500-$999
Ms. Deborah A. Allen ’88 and Mr. Robert E. Cockroft
Mr. Wayne F. Alling ’98 and Mrs. Sherry Alling
Alpha Sigma Tau Alumni
Ambassador Asset Management of Denton, LLC
Mr. Royce E. Freebourn ’80
Dr. Jonathan R. Anderson
Ms. Holly K. Anway
Mr. D. Grey Arrigonie ’08
Mr. David C. Ashe ’77 and Mrs. Donna R. (Deviney) Ashe ’78
Mr. Fisher S. Bagiatis ’19
Mrs. Bethany J. Bankovich ’04 and Mr. Michael) Mihalik
Mr. Robert J. Beatty ’80 and Mrs. Cindi Beatty
Ms. Theresa Bellish
Mr. Roy J. Bowerman, Jr. ’73
Mr. Robert E. Bowersox ’82
Mr. Kevin Brady, Jr. ’08 and Dr. Kaylan Brady
Mr. Brad E. Brocious
Mrs. Angelia M. (Cherico) Burns ’87 and Mr. Scott Burns
Mrs. Stephanie L. (Kent) Cable ’95 and Mr. Andrew R. Cable
Mr. Anthony F. Catalano ’66
Mr. Mark A. Ciccarello ’84 and Mrs. Brenda Ciccarello
Dr. Daniel D. Clark ’98 and Mrs. Kristin (Tomeo) Clark
Mr. Harold D. Clark ’68 and Mrs. Mary E. (Proper) Clark ’67
Mr. W. David Cochran ’75
Mr. Lee L. Copper ’69 and Mrs. Frances E. (Vaile) Copper ’69
F. L. Crooks & Co.
Mr. James M. Crooks ’74 and Mrs. Lydia K. (Pifer) Crooks ’80
Dr. Joseph Croskey and Mrs. Kathy (Ellwood) Croskey
Mrs. Barbara J. (Cook) Crowley ’71 and Mr. Robert D. Crowley
MASON PECK
I’d like to pause and say how much I appreciate the kindness of the Clarion State College Swimming Alumni Scholarship. I used to be the loudest one in the room (and sometimes still am), but during these years at Clarion, I have genuinely found someone else within myself. I’ve become adaptable, a better listener, a better teammate, and someone who younger ones look up to. At Clarion, I’ve met new best friends and a new family, which is (the swim) team – so many fun days on the deck and evenings sitting around a fire. It’s been a really great experience here at Clarion, and I couldn’t have done many of these things without the help you are giving me. I thank you for providing opportunities and experiences beyond my dreams.
Mr. Robert A. Dandoy ’74
Mr. Gary N. Datt ’72
Mr. Robert Davies
Mr. Joseph M. Dudzinsky ’71 and Mrs. Elizabeth Dudzinsky
Dr. John Eichlin
Mr. Steven W. Etzel ’82 and Mrs. Michelle Etzel
Mr. David L. Eury ’81
Mr. Sean M. Fagan
Mr. Andrew W. Ferguson
Lt. Col. George L. Fillgrove ’87 and Mrs. Carolynn E. H. Fillgrove
Mr. Arthur M. Floro, J.D. ’74 and Mrs. Elizabeth Burzio-Floro
Mr. Edward A. Fox ’74 and Mrs. Nancy E. (Whiteman) Fox ’75
Mr. Gerald M. Frantz ’64
Mr. Michael W. Gavin ’78
Mr. Richard Gent and Dr. Pamela J. Gent
Mr. Richard W. Gessner and Mrs. Susan C. Gessner
Mr. Nicholas M. Giambrone ’22
Mr. Jeffrey B. Gooch ’77
Gray Family Foundation
Mr. William Grove ’88 and Dr. Colleen A. McAleer ’75
Dr. Justin D. Hackett and Mrs. Amanda M. Hackett
Mrs. Lauren A. (Murgatroyd) Hasselquist ’80 and Dr. Arne W. Hasselquist
Mr. Michael H. Hinderliter ’71 and Mrs. Kay M. Hinderliter
Dr. James S. Hnat ’03 and Mrs. Amanda E. (Beam) Hnat ’03
Dr. Shawn M. Hoke ’95 and Mrs. Rayna A. (Liegey) Hoke ’97
Ms. Katherine Ippoliti
Mr. Carl Ippoliti and Ms. Michele F. Ippoliti
Iron Furnace Chpt. #288 Trout Unlimited
Mr. John T. Irwin ’71 and Mrs. Marcy M. (McCoy) Irwin ’74
Mr. Jim Jurski and Ms. Heidi Jurski
Kappa Delta Rho Alumni
Mike Kelly For Congress
Mr. Paul W. Kennedy ’67 and Mrs. Patricia L. Kennedy
Mr. Thomas P. Kennedy ’06
Kerle Tire Company, Inc. — Mr. Dan Kerle
Dr. Andrew C. Keth ’88
Dr. Mark L. Kilwein and Mrs. Pamela Kilwein
Mr. Cameron P. Kockler ’18
Dr. Craig A. Lang ’77 and Mrs. Tracey Lang
Mr. Benjamin B. Leech ’07
Ms. David Lichina
Mr. Walter F. Long III ’20 and Mrs. Laura Long
Mr. Joseph D. Lopez ’16 and Ms. Danielle J. (Stoner) Lopez ’19
Mr. John M. Lovre ’57 and Mrs. Evelyn D. (Mezerski) Lovre ’59
Mr. Dennis W. Lupton ’76 and Mrs. Brenda Lupton
Luton’s Plumbing, Heating & A. C. — Mr. Daniel Luton and Mrs. Lori J. Luton
MAC Construction
Mrs. Mary J. (Ihnat) MacKinnon ’66
Mr. Joseph Malis
Mr. Robert E. Mamula
Mr. Mel G. Mandic ’59 and Mrs. Sally L. (Bryant) Mandic ’59
Mrs. Maureen O. Mann ’72 and Dr. Samuel J. Mann, M.D.
Mr. Rodrick J. Marquette ’97
Mr. Joe Mathai ’16
Mr. Robert A. Maxwell, Jr.
Mr. Richard McClelland and Ms. Michelle McClelland
Mr. D. Craig McClure ’70 and Mrs. Dayna B. McClure
Mr. Eric J. McWilliams ’69 and Ms. Kathy B. Sickles
Mighty Writers
Ms. Melanie Miller and Mr. Rob Miller
Col. Rose M. Miller, (Ret.) ’81
Ms. Shannon K. Miller
Dr. Mark L. Mitchell and Dr. Janina Jolley
Loyal Order of Moose 101
Dr. Kwame R. Morton ’94 and Mrs. April (Thompson) Morton
Mr. Timothy S. Mulkeen ’93
Mr. Edward M. Munn ’75 and Ms. Christine S. Light
Mr. W. Dale Murdock ’72 and Mrs. Debra A. (Uchal) Murdock ’73
Mr. Kenneth C. Nellis ’86 and Ms. Cynthia A. Nellis ’16
Ms. Candice Nolde
Rep. Donna R. Oberlander ’91 and Mr. Derek F. Oberlander
Mr. John Owens ’15
Dr. Crystal L. Park ’85
Mr. Scott R. Peters ’75 and Mrs. Barbara J. Peters
Mr. Larry C. Pickett ’77 and Mrs. Melissa D. (Audain) Pickett ’80
Mr. Scott Pierce
Mr. Rob G. Powell and Ms. Kristi Powell
Mrs. Gayle B. (Bailey) Ragsdale ’77 and Mr. Randolph Ragsdale
Raytheon Matching Gifts
Regional Behavioral Consultants, Inc.
Dr. James J. Reynolds and Mrs. Janie Reynolds
Mr. Scott A. Rhoades ’92
Mr. John A. Rice ’84 and Mrs. Susan K. Rice
Mr. Mark J. Richard ’83
Mr. Denis J. Rinkacs, Jr. ’83
Ms. Fawn T. Robinson ’02
Mr. Ryan D. Robinson ’24
Mr. Jay C. Saunders ’03 and Mrs. Robin M. (Green) Saunders ’85
Ms. Samantha K. Schiebel ’22
Mr. P. Slats Schuster ’61
Mr. Justin D. Scott ’07
Col. James L. Sedlak ’85 and Mrs. Gina Jo H. Sedlak
Mr. Wayne D. Seese ’76 and Mrs. Debora C. (Zigerelli) Seese ’76
Seneca Ford
Dr. Elaine M. Shuey ’78
Mr. Bryan T. Smith and Ms. Devin Smith
Mr. Darrin Smith and Ms. Stacy Smith
The Snebold Family Business Partners LLC
Mr. Richard C. Snebold, Jr. ’68 and Mrs. Jayne G. (Milbrandt) Snebold ’69
Mr. Steven A. Spungen ’77 and Mrs. Ann Spungen
Ms. Lorraine C. Staples, J.D. ’76 and Mr. Frank Hershkowitz
Ms. Brenda L. Stelika ’84
Mr. John T. Stunda ’79 and Mrs. Patricia Stunda
Mr. Rick V. Summerville ’70 and Dr. Rebecca R. Leas
Mr. Ronald J. Sylvester ’85
Mr. Sheldon E. Thomas ’97
OLIVIA SEIFRICK
Thank you for choosing me as a recipient of the Randall Potter Psychology Scholarship. It means a lot to me as I continue to pursue my degree. My mom is a single mom, and every bit of help is meaningful to both of us. Initially a speech pathology major, I changed to psychology and library science in 2023. As I thought about changing majors, everyone was determined to help me find my path. I would like to pursue art therapy when I graduate with my psychology degree; I also plan to pursue my master’s degree in library science. I am dedicated to my studies, and I hope to make Dr. Randall Potter proud. Having served for so many years in the Clarion psychology department speaks volumes about how important he was to the university.
Mr. Arthur T. Tragesser ’69 and Mrs. Dorothy J. (Lawry) Tragesser ’70
Dr. Andrew M. Turner and Dr. Sharon L. Montgomery
Mr. Louis J. Weiers ’89
Dr. Nelson Whitling and Mrs. Linda L. (DiBernardo) Whitling ’79
Mr. Tracy Wiant and Mrs. Holly Wiant
Dr. Richard A. Wiesen ’59 and Mrs. Sandra L. (Hepler) Wiesen ’59
Dr. John E. Williams
Dr. James C. Wilson ’53
Dr. Thomas H. Witherup ’66
Dr. Kevan M. Yenerall and Mrs. Nee Yenerall
Mr. Jeremy T. Young ’98
*Donor passed away.
The listing of names of our contributors is subject to error, both human and computer. If there is an error, please accept our apology and bring it to our attention.
$25,000,000
$20,000,000
$15,000,000
$10,000,000
$18,375,755
FINANCIAL MATTERS
FINANCIAL MATTERS
2024-2025 Contribution Revenue: Donors: 1,793/ $1,758,997
Donors: 1,017 / $935,481
FRIENDS, CONSORTIA AND OTHERS
Donors: 359/ $444,417
BUSINESSES AND FOUNDATIONS
Donors: 86 / $205,164 CURRENT AND
Donors: 194 / $144,098
PARENTS
Donors: 137 / $29,837
For 2024-2025, approximately 1.9% of the total living Clarion Alum (1,017 out of 54,405) had made contributions to the Foundation.
GROWING OUR ENDOWMENT
$9,000,000
$8,000,000
$7,000,000
$6,000,000
$5,000,000
$4,000,000
$3,000,000
$2,000,000
$1,000,000
FY 25 Support By Category
Scholarships and Grants
Campus Activities and Programs
Operational and Support Services
Total: $3,301,000
$55,251,987
FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Reflecting on the past year, I’m inspired by the generosity and steady commitment that shape our Foundation and the PennWest Clarion campus. I want to extend heartfelt appreciation and say thank you to Jane France for her 19 years of service as a foundation board member, and as our board president for more than a decade.
Jane has guided the foundation through a period of meaningful growth and progress. As we look ahead, we welcome longtime board officer Mark Demich as our new board president. With Mark’s leadership and with the support of our full board, we will continue working alongside PennWest president Dr. Jon Anderson and our campus partners to strengthen our institution and uphold the values that guide it.
The Clarion University Foundation, Inc., remains committed to thoughtful stewardship and responsible financial management in service to PennWest Clarion and our campus community.
Last year, the Foundation provided more than $1.3 million in scholarship support to 620 students. Because of the continued generosity of alumni, families and friends, we secured $1.8 million in support for 2024–25, growing the endowment by 10 percent to more than $55 million. In a challenging economic environment, every gift plays a vital role in helping students stay supported and focused on their education.
Thank you to our Golden Eagles and friends for helping turn opportunities into meaningful futures for our students. Your support fuels scholarships and academic programs that open doors and keep students moving toward their goals.
With gratitude,
Max R. Smith Executive Director msmith@cuf-inc.org
Clarion University Foundation, Inc.
Clarion, Pennsylvania Board of Directors 2025-2026
Effective July 1, 2025
Mr. Mark R. Demich ’79 President
Mr. Tom Bowman ’77 President-Elect
Mr. Scott E. Burns Vice-President
Mrs. Carol Truscott ’79 Secretary
Ms. Lindsay Banner Cigole ’07 Treasurer
Mr. Paul Palmer ’61
Maj. Gen. Peter J. Talleri, USMC (Ret.) ’79
Ms. Theresa Edder ’91, M.S. ’05
Mr. Gary V. Cardamone ’88
Mr. Keith Kochert ’98
Ms. Patrice D’Eramo ’86
Mr. Jeremy Young ’98, MBA ’08
Ms. Brenda Stelika ’84 (ex-officio) Alumni Board Representative
Dr. Jon Anderson (ex-officio) President – PennWest University
Mr. James M. Geiger (ex-officio) Vice President for Advancement and Clarion Campus Administrator
Mr. Max R. Smith (ex-officio) Executive Director
Mr. John Zacherl ’90, MBA ’09 (ex-officio) Assistant Treasurer/Controller
Mrs. Desirée N. Beck (ex-officio) Assistant Secretary/Admin. Assistant
HOMECOMING 2026
October 9-10
The PennWest Pantry at Clarion assists our students by providing food, academic supplies, household goods, winter accessories, and personal hygiene items, so they can continue to the path toward graduation. Supported by our generous donors, the campus-based food pantry helps to meet students’ basic needs with compassion and discretion. We recognize that even ambitious, hard-working college students sometimes need a helping hand.
Students in need can ask to receive food or non-food supplies (personal hygiene items or school supplies) through their myPennWest account. Students are able to see all available items, customize their selections, and schedule their own pick up. In addition to providing items to students, the PennWest Pantry staff are able to connect students to campus and community resources to address students’ basic needs.
To donate items to the pantry or learn more about our services, please contact PennWestPantry@pennwest.edu
Or make a monetary donation at PennWest.edu/clarion-give and select PennWest Pantry Fund from the drop-down menu.