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SHIPPENSBURG Trendy Taps Tradition

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE SUMMER 2026

VOLUME 23, NO. 2

Robert Edge Pine. Copies of Pine’s Portraits of Signers of the Declaration of Independence, 1820, Accession #12130, Albert and Shirley Small Special Collections Library, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA.

Portrait by Daniel Gardner, Philadelphia Museum of Art

life onboard

Cumberland County, in which Shippensburg University sits, was home to four signers of the Declaration of Independence. James Wilson, George Ross, James Smith, and Benjamin Rush all practiced law in the region, some even practicing in Shippensburg. Not all of Ship’s connections to America’s independence are brag worthy. (Margaret) Peggy Shippen, granddaughter to Edward Shippen, the town founder, was described as the highest paid spy of the American Revolution, as the wife and co-conspirator of Benedict Arnold.

The Court House was built in 1735 by Samuel Perry who shortly thereafter made arrangements for a widow, Jannett Piper, to run a tavern therein. By 1740, Widow Piper’s Tavern was the hub of the growing western town named for Edward Shippen. It served as the first Court House for the newly formed Cumberland County from 1750-1751, after which a new Court House was built in Carlise to serve as the county seat. (shippensburgcivicclub.com)

Courtesy of Shippensburg Historical Society

Map of Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, 1858 From actual surveys by H. F. Bridgens, Philadelphia.

In 1976 the university marked the nation’s bicentennial by decking out the campus in red, white, and blue and dressing the part of founding fathers! These images, from The Cumberland, the university’s student yearbook prominently featured the campus’ patriotic celebration.

SUMMER 2026

FROM THE PRESIDENT We are honored to celebrate America’s 250 and Ship’s special connections to the stories of our nation with this issue of the magazine. As a public university, I believe we embody the ideals put forth by the founding fathers, as an institution that remains committed to providing opportunities for any and all to strive for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Part of that commitment comes in the standard of excellence we strive to achieve. In this issue you read about some of latest ways in which we showcase our academic excellence through several accreditations and national ratings and rankings. You

will also learn more about the many achievements of individual faulty, staff, and students across various disciplines. This excellence extends onto the field of competition, as this past year we watched and celebrated our student-athletes compete on a national level and bring home new championships. And with this issue I am proud to share the newest class of the SU Athletics Hall of Fame. There is much to celebrate at Ship as our nation celebrates its founding. The good news is if you are in your Raider red, white, and blue, you are all ready to celebrate. Charles E. Patterson, PhD President

SUMMER 2026

VOLUME 23, NO. 2

Published by Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania, a member of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education. PENNSYLVANIA STATE SYSTEM OF HIGHER EDUCATION Cynthia Shapira, Chair, Board of Governors Christopher M. Fiorentino, Chancellor PRESIDENT Charles E. Patterson VICE PRESIDENT FOR ENROLLMENT MANAGEMENT AND MARKETING Megan Luft EDITOR IN CHIEF Megan Silverstrim ’06 Director of Communications and Marketing ASSOCIATE EDITORS Anne M. Detter Schaffner Director of Marketing, SU Foundation William Morgal ’07-’10m Sports Information Director Lori Smith ’95-’07m Director, Alumni Relations CLASS NOTES EDITOR Stephanie Swanger Alumni Relations

STAFF Ryan Cleary ’23-’25m Social Media and Content Manager Emma Durnin Editorial Content Writer Kimberly Hess Creative Services Manager Jessica Kline ’02 Senior Graphic Designer and Brand Management Andrew Miller Sports Information Assistant/ Digital Media Management Specialist For change of address, please e-mail alumni@ship.edu. Shippensburg University Magazine is published two times a year for alumni, parents, friends, and associates of Shippensburg University. Portions of the magazine may be reprinted without permission if Shippensburg University Magazine is credited. Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania, in compliance with federal and state laws and university policy, is committed to human understanding and provides equal educational, employment, and economic opportunities for all persons without regard to age, color, national origin, race, religion, disability, veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Direct requests for reasonable accommodations and other inquiries to the Office of Accessibility Resources, Shippensburg University, 1871 Old Main Drive, Shippensburg, PA 172572299, (717) 477-1364, oar@ship.edu.

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

A Civic Tradition

Trending 250

Luhrs Performing Arts Center

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CONTACT SU MAGAZINE BY MAIL Ship Letters Box 35 Shippensburg University 1871 Old Main Drive Shippensburg, PA 17257-2299 BY TELEPHONE (717) 477-1201 BY E-MAIL MMSilverstrim@ship.edu Access this and past issues of Ship Magazine by scanning the code below or by visiting issuu.com/shippensburguniversity.

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SU Foundation

campus

Dr. Nicole Hill named provost and vice president for Academic Affairs

Shippensburg University is pleased to announce Dr. Nicole R. Hill as its next provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. Hill was the interim provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania, a role she recently returned to after serving two years as interim provost from 2022 to 2024. Hill began her career at Ship in June 2017 as the dean of the College of Education and Human Services. Prior to her arrival at the university, she was a professor, department chair of Counselor Education and Supervision, doctoral program co-coordinator, and CACREP liaison at Syracuse University. Before this role she served as interim dean of the Graduate School and department chairperson of Counseling at Idaho State University. “Dr. Hill is a proven strategic thinker who will provide the leadership required to ensure Shippensburg University will continue to deliver high-quality and in-demand academic programs through the

use of assessment, accreditation, and innovative modalities. Her commitment to Ship, its academic integrity, faculty, staff, and students is clear in the nearly ten years of service she has dedicated to the university,” said Dr. Charles E. Patterson, president of Shippensburg University. As provost, Hill will provide leadership for student success, retention, career readiness, workforce development, academic programs, registrar, sponsored programs, information technology, institutional research, assessment, strategic planning, libraries, and international programs. As interim Provost, she led the launch of Ship’s first online undergraduate programs, the implementation of a work-based learning initiative, and was instrumental in the extended AACSB accreditation of the John L. Grove College of Business and ABET accreditation within the Milton and Doreen Morgan School of Engineer.

AROUND CAMPUS

Sophomore Madeline Pelna places second in national ceramic competition Sophomore art education major Madeline Pelna placed second in the kiln company, Skutt’s, National Student Throwing Competition at the National Council on the Education for Ceramic Arts (NCECA) conference in Detroit, Michigan. Pelna was tasked with creating an inventive vessel on a potter’s wheel using only five pounds of clay and thirty minutes of working time. The event was judge by the famous ceramicist Steven Hill.

AACSB INTERNATIONAL EXTENDS ACCREDITATION

Shippensburg University is pleased to share AACSB International announced they have extended the John L. Grove College of Business’s accreditation. The university has held the AACSB International accreditation since 1981 and was the first school in Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education to earn the honor. “The extension of our AACSB accreditation reaffirms the College of Business’s longstanding commitment to academic excellence and student success. As we celebrate 45 years of AACSB accreditation, we are proud to continue upholding the highest standards of quality in business education worldwide. On behalf of the faculty, staff, and students at the College of Business, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to President Patterson and Provost Hill for their unwavering support of the college.” said John Kooti, dean of the Grove College of Business. Achieving AACSB accreditation is a mission-driven, rigorous process that includes an in-depth assessment of internal activities, mentorship with an AACSB advisor, and a peer-reviewed evaluation focused on continuous improvement. During this multi-year path, schools focus on developing and implementing a plan to achieve their mission and align with AACSB’s accreditation standards. These principles-based standards require excellence in areas relating to strategic management and innovation, research, and teaching and learning.

SUMMER 2026

Ship hosts US SBA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator to campus On Wednesday, April 22, Shippensburg University welcomed representatives from the US Small Business Administration (SBA) to campus. Jim Spencer, SBA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator, Steve Dixel, SBA District Director, and Michael Kane, Deputy District Director joined President Charles Patterson for

a tour of the newly renovated Kriner Hall. Kriner will soon serve as a hub for entrepreneurship as the home of the university’s Small Business Development Center, the Charles H. Diller Jr. Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and Innovation, and the Mr. and Mrs. Milton K. Morgan III Makerspace.

SBA officials tour Kriner and shop at the Student-Made pop-up.

AROUND CAMPUS

Rooted in Action Ship celebrated Earth Day and Arbor Day with StewardShip activities all over campus.

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

STATE SYSTEM NEWS

PASSHE universities pledge to cover tuition for eligible PA students Early July, PASSHE announced the systemwide “PASSHE Pledge,” a lastdollar scholarship initiative to cover remaining tuition costs for in-state undergraduate students who receive both a federal Pell Grant and a PA State Grant. The initiative begins in fall 2027. Under the pledge, eligible students across all ten PASSHE universities would pay no out-ofpocket tuition costs after federal, state, and institutional aid is applied (fees, books, housing, and meals are not included). Each university president will coordinate with PASSHE Chancellor Christopher Fiorentino to finalize the details on the university’s program to align with the goals of the pledge. Some PASSHE universities already have programs that meet parts of the pledge and will help inform the broader systemwide initiative. Fiorentino noted that the system will also seek external support from donors for the scholarship initiative. Additional information about the scholarship pledge will be shared in the coming months.

Workforce investment for PA Covering remaining tuition costs for Pell and PA State Grant recipients is also an investment in Pennsylvania’s future workforce. More students can afford to enroll, complete their degrees, and enter careers that Pennsylvania employers and communities depend on. That is important as the commonwealth is projected to have a shortage of 218,000 workers with postsecondary credentials by 2032. PASSHE plays a vital role in meeting that need. State System universities enroll

about 83,000 students, nearly 90% of whom are Pennsylvania residents, and nearly 20,000 students graduate each year. PASSHE university graduates earn about 65% more over their careers than Pennsylvanians with only a high school diploma, which equals nearly $1 million in additional lifetime earnings. The cost of earning a PASSHE degree is roughly 2% of a typical graduate’s lifetime earnings, and nearly 95% of graduates can repay their student loans within ten years.

Board sets 2026-27 in-state undergraduate tuition rate PASSHE universities remain the most affordable four-year college option in the commonwealth. For 2026-27, in-state undergraduate tuition will increase by $172 per semester. The new tuition rate will be $4,169 per semester, or $8,338 for a full academic year, the lowest university tuition in the state. Even with the increase, next year’s tuition will be 18% lower than if tuition had risen with inflation since 2018, saving students nearly $1,800 a year. “Every dollar counts for our students, and while we would prefer to freeze tuition as the Board did for seven years, we kept this increase as low as possible,” said Shapira, chair of the PASSHE Board of Governors. passhe.edu

etc. Shapiro Administration recognizes Ship as the Commonwealth’s first state-owned university to serve as an overdose prevention partner On March 26, the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) announced its Overdose Prevention Program has reached a key milestone of 100 partner organizations now distributing naloxone and drug testing strips across all counties to help prevent overdoses, particularly those that could be fatal. Among the partners is Shippensburg University, the first of Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education institutions to become an overdose prevention partner through the Administration’s program.

Pa. Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP) Secretary Dr. Latika Davis-Jones visits students and staff at Ship, the first PASSHE Overdose Prevention Program partner. (Photo courtesy: Commonwealth Media Services)

As a student member of the Board of Governors, I am proud to support expanding the pathway to a college degree for more students. Many students have jobs and work long hours while taking classes so they can afford college. By covering remaining tuition costs for eligible students, the PASSHE Pledge can help more students focus on their courses, continue their education, and prepare for their futures.” —Ali Sina Sharifi, Shippensburg University student and member of the PASSHE Board of Governors

SUMMER 2026

Pomp, circumstance, and pure joy! A little rain didn’t stop our parade of graduates! Ship hosted its annual graduate ceremony and two indoor undergraduate ceremonies. Michele L. Kluk, JD, ’24m, an accomplished attorney and community leader, addressed graduates and guests during the graduate ceremony. Alumnus Mike Doner ’82, president and CEO of Flagger Force, the leading provider of short-term traffic control services offered words of advice and encouragement for the class of 2026 during the two undergraduate ceremonies. For a full gallery of photos of the graduate and undergraduate ceremonies, visit: photos.ship.edu

President Patterson with commencement speakers, Michele L. Kluk, JD, ’24m (top) and Mike Doner ’82 (bottom).

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2026

Teacher Education earns A+ rating for reading instruction Shippensburg University’s Teacher Education Department earned an A+ rating for reading instruction from the National Council on Teacher Quality (NCTQ), exemplifying the program’s commitment to preparing future educators with evidence-based skills rooted in the “science of reading.” For Dr. Cheryl Slattery, professor of Teacher Education, the honor represents the years of hard work and collaboration that faculty have dedicated to crafting the curriculum. The A+ designation is based on how well teacher preparation programs train candidates to explicitly and systematically teach reading using scientifically supported methods. Shippensburg’s rating reflects both what candidates study during the program and how consistently their expectations are reinforced throughout the duration of the program. Slattery shared how faculty strengthened multiple areas of the curriculum. Slattery said that the program’s continued improvement was driven by a structured, faculty-led review of the literacy courses as it relates to structured literacy.

The A+ rating reflects a deliberate effort to align our teacher preparation curriculum with the deep and growing body of research known as the science of reading. Over the past several years, we’ve carefully revised coursework to ensure that teacher candidates develop a deep understanding of the essential components of reading, including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.” —Dr. Cheryl Slattery, professor of Teacher Education

“One of the most impactful initiatives was a comprehensive review of our literacy coursework and program outcomes through a committee formed within the Teacher Education Department,” she said. “Faculty collaborated to evaluate course content, identify gaps, and ensure alignment with current research and state mandates and expectations.” The faculty review led to revisions that improved instruction and measurement techniques. According to Slattery, faculty updated syllabi, improved how candidates are assessed, and worked toward stronger consistency in how reading instruction is taught across the curriculum. “The success of these efforts reflects a shared commitment among faculty to continuous improvement and to preparing future educators with evidence-based instructional practices,” Slattery said.

AROUND CAMPUS

Minds@Work 2026 Ship hosted its annual Minds@Work Conference in April, showcasing student research, scholarship, and creativity.

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

Slattery emphasized the role that students, alumni, and beyond play in maintaining effective reading practices within the classroom. “Together, students, alumni, faculty, and school partners form a professional community committed to ensuring that all children receive effective, evidence-based reading instruction.” She also noted that the A+ rating strengthens relationships with partner districts and supports student teaching placements. Looking ahead, the challenge is maintaining high standards as classrooms continue to evolve. Slattery explained that Shippensburg will continue to use multiple feedback methods, such as coursework review, performance data, and input from school partners, to ensure that reading instruction remains at the highest standard. qr.ship.edu/NCTQ

spotlight on etc. HENRY MOHL ’28 ❘

Hometown: Pottsville Year: Junior

In the spring semester of 2026, ROTC cadet, Henry Mohl was appointed to the Shippensburg University Council of Trustees. With a dedication to serving instilled in him by his father, a US Coast Guard and PA National Guard veteran, Mohl is excited to do his part in serving his fellow students and one day, the nation. What do you hope to accomplish as the student trustee on the SU Council of Trustees? Shippensburg University has a very diverse student body, so rather than having a specific goal to reach, I’d like to utilize this position to represent all the students of Shippensburg and approach issues that are directly affecting my fellow classmates.

You’re a very involved student. How do you manage your academic, ROTC, and student life responsibilities? Being busy is nothing new but it is none the less stressful. I’ve been both really bad and really good when it comes to time management throughout my time at Shippensburg and in my personal life. What I’ve found that works best for me is being organized with my time, following a consistent routine, but also giving myself personal time to not get bogged down. Being able to spend time with friends and family, as well as find time to de-stress in crucial to staying productive. Being surrounded by great people and having the privilege of calling them friends makes things a lot easier. What are you most looking forward to this academic year? This upcoming year is probably the most excited I’ve been to come back to school since I left fourth grade to go to the middle school. I am super excited to start my first full semester as the student trustee and getting to talk to more Shippensburg students. My third year with the ROTC program means I am training for Cadet Summer Training (CST) at Fort Knox, KY, which is the culmination of everything I’ve learned so far with the Raider Battalion. What excites me most about this year are the things I don’t know are coming and the new challenges that will certainly arise.

some of the toughest training I’ve ever been through, both physically and mentally. The coolest part of that experience was getting to graduate on the 4th of July which just so happened to be America’s 250th birthday. I’ve never felt more patriotic!

How does it feel to be part of such a storied and long-standing ROTC program? The ROTC program was one of the driving factors that brought me to Ship. Getting to be so involved with this program has been one of the greatest honors and I feel like my abilities as a leader have been directly influenced by the incredible individuals that have come before me. There is a reputation within the Raider Battalion of excellence, and I hope to embody that as student trustee and as a future leader in the United States Army. Raiders truly lead the way! What would you say to someone who was considering attending Ship? I only applied and toured Ship towards the end of my senior year and didn’t really know what I was getting myself in to. It turned out to be probably the best decision I’ve made so far in my “adult life”. After touring I just had a gut feeling this was going to be the right place and I was right. I’ve met some of the best people who are now my closest friends and made so many great connections. Every department I’ve gotten to interact with has had kind and dedicated staff, the political science department especially but I’m a little bias. There are endless ways to get involved and opportunities that can set you up for a successful career upon graduating.

Shippensburg University Army ROTC has commissioned 631 first lieutenants to serve the nation since 1981.

Ship joins America the Entrepreneurial 250 Campaign The Charles H. Diller Jr Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership and Innovation is a founding partner of the America the Entrepreneurial, an initiative of the Right to Start, a nation nonpartisan nonprofit organization working to expand entrepreneurial opportunity for all. As part of the campaign, which celebrates America’s entrepreneurs as builders, dreamers, and risk-takers, Ship has been sharing stories of alumni entrepreneurs. Check out these features online! AmericaTheEntrepreneurial. org

Ship named Military Friendly–Gold Status Shippensburg University was named a Military Friendly® School. For the 2026-2027 cycle, Ship earned gold status, the highest standard. According to Military Friendly®, those awarded gold status are “a school that scored within 10% of the 10th ranking school in their category.” As a gold-status school, Ship offers a wealth of benefits and resources for veteran and military students and continues to find ways to improve accessibility and opportunities.

What did you do during your summer break? I had the opportunity to attend Air Assault School at the United States Military Academy at West Point which was ran by the Sabalauski Air Assault School. Some refer to it as the 10 hardest days in the Army; many disagree but I will say from personal experience it was

SUMMER 2026

etc. 2,432

mattresses were replaced

13 tons

Greek Week 2026

kept out of landfills

This year’s competition included the crowd favorite Lip Sync Challenge! The week raised funds for the Greek Life Scholarship and Community Cares.

PBJ Day returns Ship hosted its annual PB&J day celebration to raise funds for Big Red’s Cupboard and raise awareness about college student food insecurity.

Ring Ceremony President Patterson and First Lady Colleen hosted the 2025 Field Hockey Team for an NCAA Championship Ring Ceremony at the Martin House.

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

around campus

In May, the Office of Housing and Residence Life tackled phase one of a campus-wide mattress replacement project with the help of students and staff volunteers. The project contracted with LRP Recycling to break down the discarded mattresses into reusable textiles.

H. RIC LUHRS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

A new season takes center stage at Luhrs

(717) 477-SHOW (7469) 475 Lancaster Drive, Shippensburg, PA

Hours of Operation

10:00am–4:00pm, Monday through Friday

Fall’s hottest tickets are here, and we’re thrilled to welcome back the internationally acclaimed Vienna Boys Choir for Christmas in Vienna.

Show days: Two hours before curtain through intermission.

Did you know the Vienna Boys Choir presented the very first performance at Luhrs Center? As we add performances, be sure to visit LuhrsCenter.com to explore Spring 2027 events, including the national

Get the latest show details and announcements!

Broadway tour of Legally Blonde: The Musical on May 20. We can’t wait to welcome you back to Luhrs Center!

NOVEMBER

DR. JAY BARNETT JUST HEAL: THE COURAGE TO BE WHOLE SEPTEMBER 2 |7:00 PM | FREE

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY ORCHESTRA NOVEMBER 15 | 3:00 PM

BRIT FLOYD: THE MOON, THE WALL, AND BEYOND SEPTEMBER 20 | 7:30 PM

Scan the QR, or visit LuhrsCenter.com

SEPTEMBER PENNSYLVANIA GOSPEL MUSIC FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER 4–6

The Luhrs Center box office is closed on holidays.

A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS NOVEMBER 24 | 7:30 PM MANNHEIM STEAMROLLER CHRISTMAS BY CHIP DAVIS NOVEMBER 29 | 3:00 PM

G LuhrsCenter e LuhrsArts

DECEMBER

THE ROCK ORCHESTRA BY CANDLELIGHT DECEMBER 7 | 8:00 PM THE UNITED EUROPEAN BALLET COMPANY

THE NUTCRACKER DECEMBER 9 | 7:30 PM

GRAHAM NASH OCTOBER 9 | 8:00 PM

VOYAGE: CELEBRATING THE MUSIC OF JOURNEY OCTOBER 10 | 7:30 PM THE MY GENERATION TOUR OCTOBER 17 | 7:30 PM

SESAME STREET LIVE!

ELMO’S GOT THE MOVES OCTOBER 18 | 2:00 PM UNITED STATES ARMY FIELD BAND AND SOLDIER’S CHORUS OCTOBER 25 | 3:00 PM JOHN ANDERSON OCTOBER 30 |7:30 PM

VIENNA BOYS CHOIR: CHRISTMAS IN VIENNA DECEMBER 18 | 7:30 PM

Photo by Lukas Beck

OCTOBER

MAY 2027 LEGALLY BLONDE: THE MUSICAL MAY 20 | 7:30 PM

See more information on page 25.

SUMMER 2026

RAIDER SPORTS

ChampionSHIP spring Men’s outdoor track & field captured its 32nd PSAC title and turned in its best national finish in more than a decade, while softball claimed its fifth conference championship.

TRACK & FIELD The men’s outdoor track & field team had a spring to remember, winning its 32nd Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Championship while achieving its best performance at the NCAA Division II National Championships in 11 years. Buoyed by a secondplace finish in the 4×100meter relay and junior Gian Greggo finishing third in the shot put, the Raiders tied for 18th place in the team standings at the conclusion of this year’s competition at Emporia State (Kansas) University. Ni’male Greenwood, Gabriel Lewis, Lavar Jackson, and Ke’Aune Green delivered a clean 4×100-meter relay that went down as the second fastest in school and PSAC history, posting a time of 39.66 seconds. The performance was not only the best finish at nationals by a Raider 4×100-meter relay, but it marked just the second time in school history that SU earned All-America honors in the event. A few weeks prior—during prelims of the PSAC Championships—the same quartet ran 39.61 seconds to establish the new all-time conference record. Greggo’s third-place shot put of 61 feet, 2 ¼ inches (18.65 meters) shattered his previous school record and personal best by nearly 18 inches and gave him the highest place-finish ever by a Raider in the shot put at the national championships. 14

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

A total of eight athletes competed across the span of six individual events at nationals, including Lewis (ninth place) and Green (15th place) in the 100 meters, Green (17th place) in the 200 meters, Tommy Crum Jr. (ninth place) in the 1,500 meters, Garrett Quinan (17th place) in the 10K, and Jackson Hersh (21st place) in the javelin.

A massive postseason awards haul For the first time since 2009 (when US Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association (USTFCCCA) yearly history is readily available), a school swept the Atlantic Region’s major awards for men’s outdoor track & field. Lewis was named the 2026 Men’s Outdoor Track Athlete of the Year; Greggo was named the 2026 Men’s Outdoor Field Athlete of the Year; Dave Osanitsch was named the 2026 Men’s Outdoor Track & Field Coach of the Year and Doug Knol was named the 2026 Men’s Outdoor Track & Field Assistant Coach of the Year.

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SOFTBALL The softball team posted a 39-18 record and earned the Atlantic Region’s No. 1 seed in the 2026 NCAA Division II Softball Championships, winning its most games since the 2006 season. Its crescendo came when it won the 2026 PSAC Championship title with an 8-5 win over East Stroudsburg on a rainy day in Binghamton, NY. SU went 4-0 at the PSAC Tournament, defeating Seton Hill (8-0 in five innings), IUP (11-7), and then East Stroudsburg on consecutive days (7-2 and 8-5). The PSAC Championship is the second in four years for the Raiders and the fifth conference title in school history. Freshman catcher Leah Schwalm was named the 2026 PSAC Championships Most Outstanding Athlete. She was 9-for-16 (.563) with four doubles, a triple, a homer, 10 RBIs, six runs, a .611 on-base percentage, and a perfect fielding percentage on 30 chances. Sophomore pitcher Dani Hayward threw every inning for the Raiders in this year’s PSAC Tournament (26.0) posting a 2.96 ERA and striking out 30. Shippensburg is now 19-12 in the PSAC Softball Tournament under Alison Van Scyoc, who just completed her 10th season as the head coach of the Raiders. SU has gone 13-4 in the PSAC Tournament since 2023. The Raiders later hosted Atlantic Region Tournament games at Robb Field, winning their opening game against Claflin (8-0 in five innings) before losing to Charleston, and then being eliminated by the eventual region champion, Glenville State. Shippensburg’s senior class: Lindsey Haser, Rilee Ehrlacher, Caitlyn Martell, Emilee Sullivan, and Kaira Zamadics, contributed to a 145-81 record since the start of the 2023 season. The class

finishes as two-time PSAC Champions as well as 2025 NCAA Atlantic Regional Champions. Overall, the 2026 Raiders set singleseason school records for doubles (115), hits (559), runs scored (367), and RBIs (340). The team ranked second in program history in home runs (51), third in batting average (.342), and fifth in total wins (39). Among many other notable accomplishments include Hayward ranking second in single-season school history for wins (28) and innings pitched (225.2). Following the season, Martell was a recipient of the 2026 NCAA Division II Rawlings Gold Glove award by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA), one of just nine players nationally to receive the honor. Martell, Division II’s Gold Glove winner at shortstop, became the first softball player in both SU and PSAC history to earn the prestigious award. She graduates as the school record holder in five major categories, including career hits (310), career starts (225), and career runs (196).

2026 ATHLETICS HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES h ANNOUNCED letic H all of F

PSAC Men’s Outdoor Track & Field Freshman of the Year. Osanitsch, now an eight-time USTFCCCA Regional Coach of the Year, guided the Raiders to the 2026 PSAC outdoor championship by a 74-point margin.

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Lewis had a record-setting spring that was highlighted by running the fifth fastest wind-legal 100-meter dash (10.03 seconds) in NCAA Division II history. He and Greggo both doubled as the PSAC Athletes of the Year for track and field respectively, while Green was named the

Seven individuals have been selected for induction into the 2026 class of the Shippensburg University Athletics Hall of Fame. The ceremony will take place Homecoming Weekend on Friday, October 16 at 12:30pm in the Tuscarora Room. Eric Bologa ’15 (men’s track & field) is a four-time NCAA All-American hurdler and sprinter who finished as a seven-time NCAA Championships qualifier (four times as an individual, three times with a relay) and seven-time PSAC Champion (including two individual titles each in the 400-meter hurdles and 400 meters). He contributed to five school records (including two conference relay records) during the glory days of SU men’s track & field in the mid2010s. Megan Fogle Briggs ’08 (women’s basketball) totaled 1,418 points in her 110-game career as a Raider, ranking her 11th in school history for alltime scoring at the time of her graduation, and second in career three-pointers with 208. A first-rate defender and an integral team leader, Briggs earned All-PSAC Western Division Second Team honors in 2006 after being named the 2005 PSAC Western Division Rookie of the Year. Trevor Harman ’14 (football) set 17 school records during his tenure. He was a 2013 Associated Press (AP) Little All-America Second Team wide receiver and a threetime All-PSAC Eastern Division First Team performer. Harman finished with 321 career receptions (a school and conference record that ranked fourth all-time in NCAA D-II history), 4,249 career receiving yards (school record, second in PSAC history, 13th in NCAA D-II history), and 61 receiving touchdowns (a school and conference record that ranked third all-time in NCAA D-II history). Those PSAC rankings still stand to this day. Erica Hess-Gross ’11 (women’s track & field) is a six-time NCAA Championships qualifier and a six-time PSAC champion in the 400 meters. Hess-Gross is the only woman in league history to win three or more PSAC Championships in the indoor 400 meters and one of just three women in PSAC history (and the only Raider) to win at least three PSAC Championships in the outdoor

SUMMER 2026

400 meters. She earned an All-PSAC (Top 3) finish in all eight of her 400-meter runs at the PSAC Championships. Missy Pierce Huffman ’07 (volleyball) became the first Raider to finish as a four-time All-PSAC performer. Her legacy as an outside hitter included her status as the third player in school history to record at least 1,000 career kills and 1,000 career digs. She remains among the Top 6 players in three major statistical categories to this day: fifth in career kills (1,274), third in career digs (1,902), and sixth in career aces (166). She also finished with 137 total blocks over the course of 130 career matches. Caitlin Stuetz Brimmer ’13 (women’s track & field) completed her career as a two-time NCAA outdoor qualifier in the 400meter hurdles (earning AllAmerica honors as a senior) and a seven-time PSAC Champion in hurdle events. She set SU’s school records in all three major hurdle events; her personal best times of 14.07 seconds in the 100-meter hurdles, 1:00.11 in the 400-meter hurdles, and 8.61 seconds in the 60-meter hurdles rank second, first and second in school history to this day. Jamie Thomas ’06 (wrestling) is one of just three Raiders in school history to finish as a three-time All-American. Competing at 125 pounds, Thomas achieved 66 career victories in just three seasons. As a senior, Thomas was the NCAA Division II Championships runner-up and posted a 29-9 record. He enjoyed a streak of 18 consecutive victories, which included an NCAA East Region title. His performance helped the Raiders to a third-place team finish at the 2006 NCAA Championships, the highest-ever finish in the program’s history. To read the full bios for the inductees, visit: shipraiders.com/HOF Want to nominate someone for consideration for the Athletic Hall of Fame? Scan the QR code, or visit

QR.ship.edu/ ShipHOF

For the latest news and info, visit our website or connect with us on social media. ShipRaiders.com ShipAthletics ShipURaiders ShipURaiders 16

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

FACULTY FOCUS

CHEMISTRY DEPARTMENT GAINS WIDESPREAD ATTENTION IN VIRAL RESEARCH VIDEO Shippensburg University’s Chemistry Department recently made headlines on the American Chemical Society’s (ACS) YouTube channel, Reactions. Dr. John Richardson, Dr. Jeb Kegerreis and sophomore chemistry student, Rebekah Feight, were highlighted in the viral video, “Coke Just Revolutioned Coke,“ which reached one million views. qr.ship.edu/coke

FACULTY BRIEFS DR. ELIZABETH ARAGUNDE served as the guest conductor for the highly competitive Pennsylvania Music Educators’ Association’s District 4 Choral Festival held in Huntingdon County. The three-day festival was the largest in PMEA D4 history with over 250 auditioned, top-level singers from twenty-four area high schools participating. DR. COREY J.M. WILLIAMS was interviewed as a subject matter expert for a New York Times article about retail thefts of trading cards and the underlying economic value driving the visible uptick in these events.

DR. DHIMAN CHATTOPADHYAY was the lead author for a recently published book chapter in the extremely timely WileyBlackwell Handbook of Conflict & Peace Communication, edited by Dr. Sideshna Roy. The book has 27 chapters from 42 scholar-contributors across all six continents and over 15 nations. Shippensburg University’s assistant director of Sports Medicine, TANYA MILLER, was inducted into the Pennsylvania Athletic Training Hall of Fame. A volunteer leader of the Pennsylvania Athletic Trainers’ Society (PATS) since 2005, she served as a member of the board of directors for six years, led governmental affairs for more than a decade, and has advocated for major legislative work that has reshaped athletic training in Pennsylvania.

Associate Director of Housing and Residence Life Jeff Ward ’15m is known as the associate director of Housing and Residence Life at Ship but he is also part of a historic society known as the Descendants of the Signers of the Declaration of Independence (DSDI). The America 250 celebration held special meaning for him and his family.

Who in your family tree was a signer of the Declaration of Independence? I am related to John Morton who was the deciding vote for the signing the Declaration of Independence. He was from Ridley Township, PA and of Finnish descent. What is DSDI? The DSDI is a historical society dedicated to upholding the memory and works of our ancestors. We work on various projects to keep the signer’s memory alive such as finding and maintaining the grave markers of the signers and their wives, working on biographies of the signers and their wives, participating in the symbolic tapping of the Liberty Bell every July 4, providing scholarship opportunities for descendants, as well as participating in various historical dedications.

How do you normally celebrate the Fourth of July? I go to Philadelphia for the festivities where I attended the Bell Tapping ceremony and then participate in our annual meeting which occurs in Independence Hall. Why do you think it is so important to remember these individuals? For me, I believe it is important to know the sacrifices that the signers made to be a part of this. The final line of the declaration rings true, “we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor.” A number of signers lost everything as part of the revolution but knew the importance of their actions. To learn more about the Descendants of the Signers of the Declaration of Independence (DSDI), visit dsdi1776.com *John Morton image and signature from Public Domain

AMINUTEWITH…

JEFF WARD

How did you become a member of the DSDI? My family have been members of the DSDI for generations and can trace back our family tree to John Morton. My grandfather and uncle were former presidents of the organization, and I recently served a term as the PA governor. How meaningful is your experience in DSDI? It has been an immense privilege to be a descendant and a member of the DSDI. It has given me the opportunity to be a bell tapper, serve on the committee that has worked to find, restore, and dedicate signers’ wives’ grave sites, as well as keep the memory of the signers alive who risked their livelihood to provide American citizens a better life. Being a descendant has guided me throughout my personal and professional life to do the right thing and stand up for what you believe in, just like John Morton did.

I believe it is important to know the sacrifices that the signers made to be a part of this… A number of signers lost everything as part of the revolution but knew the importance of their actions.

SUMMER 2026

As Americans spent the summer celebrating the nation’s independence, the document that would go on to guide the great experiment that is American democracy, would not be signed until September 17, 1787. Over the course of the next 250 years, the US has celebrated the milestone of the signing of the US Constitution, in many unique ways and for nearly 20 years, Ship has honored that day with the help of some of its youngest students.

A Civic Tradition “The principles and ideals of democracy hold this country together: the right of every citizen to participate in the political process by voting and speaking out, to elect representatives, and to work collectively and individually to build a better society. These values are essential to American democracy, but they are not inherited—they must be taught. That is why civic education should begin as early as possible,” explained Dr. Alison Dagnes, chair of Political and Social Inquiry Department and professor. At Ship, that civic education starts in the Grace B. Luhrs University Elementary School (GBLUES). “Each year, GBLUES students join the university community in front of the Ezra Lehman Memorial Library for a reading of the Preamble of the US Constitution. Fourth and fifth grade students recite the Preamble alongside President Charles Patterson, while younger students, families, and members of the campus community attend and celebrate with them,” said Dr. Michelle Forman, dean of libraries. To prepare for the big day GBLUES teachers incorporate lessons about the US Constitution, the Founding Fathers, and the importance of civic responsibility. These lessons begin during the first weeks of school with students practicing their assigned portions of the Preamble every day. “These lessons help students understand the historical significance of the document they are reading. By connecting classroom learning to a real-world event, students gain a deeper appreciation for American history and the principles on which our country was founded,” said Holly Garner, GBLUES director. The lesson is a creative way to also build student confidence and improve fluency. But beyond the academic advantages, both Garner and Foreman 18

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agree, this annual event provides GBLUES students with a valuable sense of community. “It is an experience that brings together students, staff, and families while celebrating learning, citizenship, and community. Experiences like this reinforce that they are valued members of a larger community and show them the importance of working together to celebrate history and learning,” said Garner. Dagnes believes the positive impact of this tradition is far greater, especially given the current divided political climate in America. “The children are our future. We might have problems, but the students at GBLUES might have the solutions. Our Ship students working with GBLUES kids fosters a connection that bridges generations and helps to foster connections that will last beyond our campus,” said Dagnes.

These bonds are further fostered by an accompanying exhibit in the library that features Constitution themed artwork and posters created by GBLUES students. “The exhibit gives the campus community an opportunity to appreciate the students’ creativity and to continue engaging with the ideas raised during the event,” said Foreman. The annual event typically concludes with a keynote event that is open to the campus community and public, featuring a distinguished speaker organized by Professor Steven Lichtman, associate professor of political science.

In Order to Form a More Perfect Celebration This year, on the heels of America 250 celebrations occurring nationwide, this special tradition will grow into something even more powerful, thanks to a few democracy loving university students. A group of political science majors developed the idea for Democracy Day, to be held in conjunction with this year’s Constitution Day celebration on September 17. The goal is to further provide GBLUES and university students, as well as the entire campus community, powerful moments of community and engagement that can inspire how they connect with others in the future.

“We are so politically divided right now it makes politics seem ugly and it makes governing difficult. Life will be much better if we can come together to work as a nation,” Dagnes added. On top of the annual Preamble reading, keynote speaker, and library exhibit this student-led, nonpartisan event has been designed to bring energy and some levity to topics that many have come to view as only serious or divisive. The campus community will be invited to enjoy food, games, and have the chance to engage with student organizations wh0 represent a wide range of disciplines, perspectives, and identities. With so many individuals and groups coming together to celebrate this great moment in American history through civic education, it is Ship’s own unique contribution to the advancement of the concept of “We the People” and the hope of a “more perfect union.”

“By connecting classroom learning to a real-world event, students gain a deeper appreciation for American history and the principles on which our country was founded.” Holly Garner, GBLUES director

SUMMER 2026

The Shippensburg University Fashion Archives and Museum is on trend for summer and fall 2026 with an American 250 exhibit that celebrates how we’ve celebrated our nation through the lens of fashion.

trending

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

“Several different museum exhibit announcements celebrating America’s 250th came to my attention, and they generally shared the same focus on the Declaration of Independence, the ensuing war, the founding of the United States, and prominent figures such as George Washington. I wanted to connect to the theme but in a different way, and the idea of looking at the different fifty-year markers was born,” said Dr. Karin Bohleke, director of the Archives. The exhibit, Happy Birthday! American Milestones from Lafayette to Today, commemorates the shifting identities that the country has faced throughout history, through the display of clothing, souvenirs, and folk arts tied to its milestone anniversaries. These shifting identities include responses to current events, like a stars and stripes fringed vest the original owner wore to anti-Vietnam protests in the early 1970s. In another display, a boy’s costume imitates George Washington’s iconic blue coat. This costume was worn during World War I and showcases how historic performance taught children patriotic values. One of the historical performance items is an 18th-century embroidered suit, which required 100 hours of meticulous stabilization to be displayed. Intern Steph Craven, along with archives volunteer Joann Dunigan, worked together to handle the delicate mounting, sewing, stitch-bystitch repairs, and structural support of the garment. It was slow, meticulous work, but immensely rewarding,” said Dunigan. “Seeing the suit return to stable condition made every hour worth it, she added, “I’m proud to have helped preserve a piece of history for future visitors.”

Homespun History While fashion has played a role in how we celebrate the founding of America, it also played a significant but less talked about part in the revolution. “The standard history lesson in American schools emphasizes the Boston Tea Party to illustrate our past mandated dependence on British

“I wanted to connect to the theme [America’s 250] but in a different way, and the idea of looking at the different fifty-year markers was born.” Dr. Karin Bohleke

products. But one dramatic act by a group of men disguised as Native Americans had nowhere near the effect that women’s nonconsumption and domestic production of textiles had,” said Bohleke. The effect Bohleke referenced is known to historians as the “homespun movement.” Prior to the revolution, colonial Americans were not allowed to manufacture their own textiles or even own sheep bred to produce high-quality wool. A formal example of these restrictions is the Wool Act of 1699, created by English Parliament to protect the British textile industry. The act barred colonists from exporting products like wool, yarn, and cloth forcing dependence on British-made goods. The Stamp Act of 1765 is another example of British taxation, aimed at controlling printed materials,

access to information and education, and funding the British military. As colonists grew increasingly angry over these restrictive taxes that benefited only their English ruler, they looked for ways to rebel within their own sphere of influence. Women specifically were not part of the discussions and decision making that would fuel the American Revolution, but they were decision makers when it came to household purchases. And they decided to use their buying power against the British. Women of all different social standings boycotted British textiles and fine fabrics. They took to repairing, rather than replacing their garments. They abandoned the once influential fashion trends of Europe in favor of more simplistic look. But they could not just simply stop buying, SUMMER 2026

their families still needed clothing, so they began to organize in groups and produce their own fabric. “Textiles and the right to manufacture our own were integral to the revolution, and at one point, seventy percent of the clothing in American closets was made here and made extremely well,” explained Bohleke. With a war eventually underway and an Army to supply, early America looked to women to support the manufacturing of cloth that could be turned into uniforms, tents, and bandages. This would not be the last time women in America played a role in supplying Americans with textiles and the exhibit features an example of this later effort. A specifically commissioned quilt by Stitch ’n ’Peace Quilt Guild integrates national, state, and county symbols while highlighting the central role women played in celebrating America’s history. “Women were driving forces in fundraising and organizing for the

Centennial and for launching preservation efforts for the 1926 Exposition. Quilting was integral to the 1970s revival of women’s arts in spinning, quilting, and weaving, which later helped sustain some American textile firms facing overseas competition,” explained Bohleke. Once American independence was secured, the sentiment toward European fashion changed again, with renewed influence from abroad, but this time Americans could take part on their own terms. And much of that influence came from the very nation that aided our new nation in its fight for independence, France. “From the historical perspective, there was no such thing as American fashion until World War II. Prior to that time, everyone looked to Paris, which still holds sway: after all, the French capital still comes first in the phrase “Paris, London, Rome, New York,” and the American city’s position as dead last in the phrase represents historical chronology,” said Bohleke.

American fashion didn’t exist as an original influence until the 1920s according to Bohleke. Leisure attire and women’s beach pajamas were the trends that sparked the acceptance of women wearing trousers. And while unique American fashion was late to the game, the approach to celebrating independence has always maintained a unique American flare. And that American flare is on display at the SU Fashion Archives and Museum through November 2026. This exhibit was made possible through a 2025 Tourism Product Development Grant of $15,260 from the Cumberland Area Economic Development Corporation, awarded to the Shippensburg University Foundation. The exhibit Happy Birthday! American Milestones from Lafayette to Today, runs through November 19. See website for hours and admission information. qr.ship.edu/Fashion250

From luxurious silhouettes of the eighteenth century right up to groovy styles of the 1970s, the exhibition explores how Americans celebrated their independence in 1826, 1876, 1926, 1976, and includes fashions from each time.

(Above) In 1976, Sears offered a red raincoat whose lining repeated the autographs of the signers of the Declaration of Independence.

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

alumni

We are looking forward to welcoming our alumni and friends to campus to celebrate Shippensburg University Homecoming 2026! Check ship.edu/homecoming for updates and the event schedule. While programming and activities are still being planned, several activities are highlighted below. Please be sure to monitor the webpage and your inbox for updates to the Homecoming schedule. *Remember, some activities require advanced registration and your advanced RSVP will help us prepare.

Athletic Hall of Fame Awards Luncheon

recipients. We’ll be recognizing Eric Bologa ’15 (track & field), Megan Fogle Briggs ’08 (basketball), Caitlin Stuetz Brimmer ’13 (track & field), Trevor Harman ’14 (football), Erica Hess-Gross ’11 (track & field), Missy Pierce Huffman ’07 (volleyball), and Jamie Thomas ’06 (wrestling). Advanced tickets required. Purchase tickets by calling the Office of Athletics at (717) 477-1711.

12:30pm | Tuscarora Room, Reisner Dining Hall

Divine Nine Fraternity and Sorority Alumni Chat with the President

The Athletic Hall of Fame recognizes former student-athletes who were the epitome of athletic excellence and who continue to exemplify the Raider spirit as proud alumni. A 12:30pm luncheon will be held to honor the hall of fame

4:00pm | Susquehanna Room, Reisner Dining Hall

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16

Alumni from the Divine Nine fraternities and sororities are invited to a chat with President Patterson.

Alumni Awards of Distinction 5:00pm | Tuscarora Room, Reising Dining Hall

OBER 16 &

OCT

MECOMI

With over 76,000 alumni living across the country and living internationally, one can imagine the successes achieved and the impacts being made by graduates of Shippensburg University every day in their professional fields, lives, and communities. The Shippensburg University Alumni Awards of Distinction are presented annually to alumni in the categories of Distinguished Alumni, Outstanding Young Alumni, Lifetime Achievement, Cultural Impact, and Exceptional Service. The evening includes a 5:00pm reception and 5:45pm dinner. The 2026 Alumni Awards of Distinction will be presented immediately following the dinner. Please join us in celebrating our 2026 award recipients— award recipient bios may be found at ship.edu/homecoming. Advanced tickets required. Purchase tickets on-line or call the Office of Alumni Relations at (717) 477-1218.

SUMMER 2026

RAIDERS IN ACTION Multicultural (MSA) Alumni Kickback in the AM 9:00pm–11:00pm | Gilbert Hall Just for alumni, stop by Gilbert Hall beginning at 9:00pm to catch up with MSA director Dr. Danielle Martin and friends.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 Homecoming Parade 10:00am | King Street through campus The parade steps off in town at 10:00am on King Street and enters campus from Prince Street at approximately 10:30am. The parade will travel on Adams Drive to Cumberland Drive and disband after passing the Ceddia Union Building (CUB). Bring a blanket or chair and take a seat to watch the parade. The Alumni Association Board of Directors will be handing out items along the parade route so be sure to arrive early and line King and Prince Street, as well as Adams and Cumberland Drives! Seeking parade entries! Parade units are not solely for student organizations—alumni are encouraged to enter! Join in the fun and get your friend group together, club, or organization. Enter a walking unit or decorate a car/truck. Parade entry registration form may be completed on-line at ship.edu/homecoming

Friday, October 16 Baseball (scrimmage) vs. Frederick C.C., 2:00pm Swimming vs. Fairmont State and California U of PA, 5:00pm Volleyball vs. Millersville, 6:00pm Saturday, October 17 Football vs. East Stroudsburg 1:00pm Purchase tickets at the gate; $10/adults; $5/students; Cash only.

Multicultural Alumni Memorial Service 11:00AM - 11:30AM | CUB Room 119 Join in honoring our multicultural alumni who have passed away. Service hosted by the Divine Nine Alumni Committee.

Raider Zone–SU Tailgate Tailgate lots open at 10:00am | Behind Seth Grove Stadium The Ship experience is more than four years—it lasts a lifetime! Attend Homecoming 2026 and enjoy the Ship experience with alumni, family, and friends. Pick up your Ship alumni giveaways, register for door prizes, and enjoy light snacks and refreshments at the Alumni Tent including hamburgers, hot dogs, nachos, cotton candy, and popcorn! In the pedestrian tailgate lot, reconnect with academic departments, faculty, and student organizations in this tent-only tailgate area. Be prepared—Review the tailgate policy online. Tailgating must conclude and lots vacated two hours after the football game ends. • Face painting, 11:00am-1:00pm • Arcade-style photo booth with commemorative photo strips, 11:00am-2:00pm • Inflatable obstacle course, 11:00am-2:00pm • Interactive games, 11:00am-1:00pm

• Dunk tank—Donate for a cause and purchase your ball to try to dunk the brothers of Kappa Sigma fraternity. Dunk tank located in the pedestrian tailgate lot. Near the end goal post closest to Route 696. And the Antietam Dairy Ice Cream Truck will be back with lots of flavors to choose from! Visit them outside the stadium along the fence (cash sales only). A portion of the sales supports programming for the Alumni Association.

Half-time Programming • SUMB Marching Band performance • Homecoming royalty crowning • Raiders Club tuition raffle

Post-Game Programming Stay immediately after the game to catch the full postgame SU Marching Band performance.

SUMB Alumni Fifth-Quarter Social Calling all marching band alumni—make plans to attend the SUMB Alumni Social under the hockey rink pavilion. After the post-game programming, walk or drive over to the hockey rink pavilion. The Centennial Time Capsule will be sealed at the Social. Please visit the homecoming website to register and pay. SUMB is happy to have alumni band members participate in the band’s performance for pre-game and in the stands. Those that want to participate can register at SUMB100.com. Check online and watch your e-mail inbox for details including registration information.

Homecoming Step Show Memorial Auditorium | Doors open at 7:00pm; Show at 8:00pm Watch stepping groups take the stage to demonstrate tradition and pride within each fraternity and sorority. Stepping

ALUMNI RELATIONS STAFF | Lori Smith ’95-’07m, director; Stephanie Swanger, clerk typist ALUMNI BOARD OF DIRECTORS | Taylor Mason ’17-’18m, outreach archivist, PA House of Representatives; Dawn Kothe ’93, president-elect, administrative coord., Main Line Endoscopy Centers; Aven Bittinger ’20-’21m, immediate past president, policy director, Commonwealth of PA, Dept. of Drug and Alcohol; Andrea Addison ’77-’79m, adult probation officer, Dauphin County; Paula Alcock ’92, grant supervisor, PA Key; Sheena Baker ’05, communications coordinator, Franklin County; JoAnn Baldwin ’81-’89m, exec. member-at-large, educator, St. Stephen’s Episcopal School; Tom Burnheimer ’87m, exec. member-at-large, retired director of pupil services; Monica Chisholm ’82, retired school social worker; Michael Coyne ’12, emergency communications specialist, Frederick Police Dept.; Barrie Ann George ’88-’89m, vice president development and communications, Safe Harbour, Inc.; Dominic Giovanniello ’17, associate director, real estate, Milton Hershey School; Dr. Emily Goodine ’07-’13m-’21edd, supervisor special education, Chambersburg Area School District; Isaiah Harris ’22, independent consultant and advisor; Lance Hines-Butts ’22, owner, LHB Clean Team and realtor, Keller Williams; Michael Johnston ’11, executive business partner, Google; Liz Kemmery ’04, digital managing editor, Welcome US; Mark Livingston ’88, corporate controller, Harrington Hoists, Inc.; Keith Mather ’01, public utility auditor, Commonwealth of PA; Kelly Myers ’06-’10m, senior policy analyst, Loudoun County Office Emergency Management; Alecia Nezat-Pyne ’05-’07m, high school counselor, Commonwealth Charter Academy; Julie Perez ’91, educator, Washington County Schools, MD; Jordan Tegtmeyer ’00, associate dean, finance and administration, Princeton University; Chris Weber ’03, tax accounting assoc., Mentzer & Co.; Bailey Welch ’18, assistant borough manager, Penbrook Borough; George Wise ’83, retired special education teacher.

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

is an expression of African American and Multicultural Greek culture. It is synchronized movements and chants reminiscent of drill teams. Hosted by the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs.

The My Generation Tour 7:30pm | Luhrs Performing Arts Center | Tickets: $49-$79 The My Generation Tour stars the bands whose sounds swept across the airwaves at homes, in our rooms, and on the beach with our transistor radios. The music drove us into record stores to grasp the singles we loved and play them until the grooves wore out. Between The Lovin’ Spoonful, The Hollies, and Gary Lewis & The Playboys, the charts exploded every week with a new tune that captivated our rock and roll souls. Purchase your tickets at LuhrsCenter. com or call the box office at (717) 477-7469.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18 Harmonic Voices of Truth Worship Service 11:00am | Old Main Chapel

PLAN YOUR STAY We are delighted to welcome you to spend the weekend in the area for Homecoming 2026 and are ready to assist you in identifying lodging. The Courtyard by Marriott is adjacent to campus and provides the benefit of being able to walk to the tailgate area and football stadium. Visit online for the complete list of hotel options. ship.edu/lodging

LuhrsCenter.com

t h e h o l l i e s g r e at e s t h i t s s ta r r i n g

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SUPPORT SHIP STUDENTS Have you recently retired, or need to downsize your closet? If yes, then consider supporting the Raider Ready Professional Dress Closet by bringing gently used business attire donations to support SU students as they prepare for work-based experiential learning opportunities for their career journey. Drop off donations at the Career Center in the Ceddia Union Building (CUB), Room 108 on the rack/ bin. Please complete the ‘paper donation form’ when you drop off items so we can send you a thank you note and receipt of donation for tax purposes. Help stock Big Red’s Cupboard! The cupboard is specifically seeking hygiene, personal products, snack items, and ready to eat soup and snacks. Bring unopened and non-expired items for drop-off at the CUB Info Desk (across from the University Bookstore) located on the lower level. Items for the Dress Closet and Big Red’s Cupboard may be dropped off on Friday or Saturday of Homecoming weekend.

1975

MEET YOUR 2026–2027 ALUMNI ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE BOARD AND NEWLY ELECTED BOARD DIRECTORS Taylor Mason ’17-’18m, Alumni Association President Taylor is an outreach archivist for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. She earned a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in applied history. EXECUTIVE BOARD Dawn (Buller) Kothe ’93, President-Elect Dawn is the administrative coordinator at Main Line Endoscopy Center out of Malvern and is an alumna of Phi Sigma Sigma sorority. Aven Bittinger ’20-’21m, Immediate Past President Serves as policy director in the Department of Drug and Alcohol for the Commonwealth of PA. Prior to his appointment, he served as a prestigious William & Hannah Penn Fellow for the PA Department of Health as well as an executive policy specialist. JoAnn Baldwin ’81-’89m Joann is a thirdgrade teacher at St. Stephen’s Episcopal School in Harrisburg. She is an alumna of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority and Harmonic Voices of Truth.

Tom Burnheimer ’87m Tom is a retired director of pupil services, West Shore School District. He is part of a three-generation legacy family—his parents, Charles and Louise, were both members of the class of 1954 and his son Spencer, SU marching band, is an alumnus from the class of 2024. NEWLY ELECTED DIRECTORS Meet your newly elected directors that join the twenty-six member Alumni Board of Directors: Paula (Biesecker) Alcock ’92, Middletown, professional development grants supervisor, PA Key. Paula is an alumna of Phi Sigma Sigma sorority and a previous past-president of the Alumni Association. Sheena Baker ’05, Chambersburg, communications coordinator, Franklin County. Sheena served as a member of student senate and was a writer and copy editor for Slate, SU’s student run newspaper. Isaiah Harris ’22, Hastings on Hudson, NY, is an independent consultant and advisor. He previously served as deputy chief of staff with the NY City Housing Development Corp. A

native of Chambersburg, Isaiah now resides in New York. Liz (Vargo) Kemmery ’04, Carlisle, digital managing editor, Welcome US. Beginning her fifth year on the alumni association board of directors. Mark Livingston ’88, Lancaster, corporate controller, Harrington Hoists, Inc. An alum of the college of business with a degree in accounting, Mark is also an alumnus of Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. Keith Mather ’01, Middletown, public utility auditor, Commonwealth of PA. An alumnus of the accounting program at Ship, Keith is also the proud parent of a legacy student. His daughter Karly, SU marching band, is an alum from the class of 2025. Chris Weber ’03. Shippensburg, tax and accounting associate, Mentzer & Company. A newly elected alumni board member, he also serves on the Finance Advisory Council with the College of Business. Chris married his shipmate, Nicole ’01, and is also a legacy family—his daughter Brynn graduated in December 2025. SUMMER 2026

weekend Friday, May 29

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

and Saturday, May 30

Alumni Weekend was full of opportunities to share old memories and make new ones! Exclusive tours of closed fourth floor of Old Main, class and Greek reunion celebrations, ice cream trivia, and a yacht rock themed dinner and show, were just a few of the events that made this year so special. We hope you’ll join us again next year in 2027 on Friday, June 4 and Saturday, June 5. For more photos from this year’s Alumni Weekend, visit flickr.com/sualumni.

SUMMER 2026

60s Dr. Robert M. Frame III ’68, Saint Paul, MN, published a new book, Making Mill City, launched the week of April 9 in the Mill City Museum, Minneapolis, and published by the University of Minnesota Press.

70s Joel Romaine ’71, Aston, was elected chairman of the board of Sun East Federal Credit Union. Patti (Bussard) Adami ’74, Camp Hill, recently retired from a 30+ year career in marketing and received her Personal Training Certificate from the National Academy of Sports Medicine. Gari (Garwood) Brindle ’76, Chesterbrook, recently moved back to Pennsylvania after living 11 years on the west coast of Florida. Their love of travel continues with trips this year to the Amalfi Coast of Italy, France, Germany, and train travel through the Swiss Alps. Jere D. Matthews ’79, York, retired in December 2025 after a 48-year career with Rutter’s in York. During the 18 years prior to his retirement, Matthews served as the vice president, Operations. James W. Saxton ’79, Johns Island, SC, was awarded by Pennsylvania Dutch Council, Scouting America, with its 38th Distinguished Citizen Award in recognition of his leadership and influence across Lancaster

CLASSNOTES TELL US YOUR LATEST accomplishments and

milestones by submitting your news to Classnotes. Alumni news, which is compiled from your submissions and previously published materials, is arranged in the magazine alphabetically within each class year. Submissions are published as space and deadlines allow. In Memoriam is published as a separate column. Classnotes may take up to six months to appear as a result of the publication schedule. Please limit submissions to 100 words or less. Photo submissions are welcome and are published as space permits. Please submit original, high-resolution photos (300 dpi). We look forward to hearing from you! Disclaimer: Shippensburg University and its Alumni Association are neither responsible nor liable for the accuracy of information submitted to Classnotes. Shippensburg University reserves the right to edit or remove submissions as appropriate.

STANDARD MAIL: Alumni Relations Shippensburg University 1871 Old Main Drive Shippensburg, PA 17257-2299 E-MAIL: alumni@ship.edu ONLINE: ship.edu/alumni or scan QR

and Lebanon counties. Saxton is recognized by Super Lawyers for his 16th year in the practice area of Civil Litigation: Defense at Saxton & Stump. He is rated AV Preeminent by the Martindale-Hubbell rating service and has been named to the “Best Lawyers in America” list from 2016-2026.

80s Don Falcone ’80, San Bruno, CA, produced the Spirits Burning & Bridget Wishart album, Fragments, released by Deko Entertainment in March. Falcone co-wrote and performed on all tracks. The album is the fourth full-album collaboration between former Hawkwind singer Bridget Wishart and Falcone. Donald K. Alspaugh ’82, Lancaster, retired from his first career with 23 years in law enforcement and also

Phi Sigma Epsilon brothers and their spouses met for dinner at the Pizza Grille in Camp Hill to share stories from the past. Sitting from left to right: Ken Shur ’75-’82m, Steve Gabler ’75, Dennis Royer ’75, and Frank Klink ’77. Standing from left to right: Jim Cochran ’74-’86m, Fred Reddig ’73, Tom Dellinger ’75, Al Winey ’73-’78m, Charlie Goodhart ’74-’86m, Joe Snoke ’74-’81m-’84m, and Dale Shirey ’75.

Tau Kappa Epsilon had their 20th annual TKE-ZT Alumni Golf Outing. TKE ZT President Tim Dull ’82 grips it and rips it (above). A mosaic tile creation of TKE Coat of Arms (below) was made by TKE Sweetheart Debi (Schumacher) McCarthy ’69 and donated by her husband Jim McCarthy ’70.

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

retired from a second career with 12 years as a hospice chaplain. He celebrated with a trip to Turkey/ Greece and around the US. Eric W. Conrad ’83, Biddeford, ME, a veteran journalist and editor, published his first book, Maine Golf Tales: 18 Special Courses and the Stories Behind Them. Daniel J. Divis ’83, Swarthmore, Gerolamo, McNulty, Divis, Lewbart & Fox law firm in which Daniel is a founding partner celebrates its 25th year. Divis has been selected as a Pennsylvania Super Lawyer continuously from 2014-2026 in the area of Civil Litigation-Defense.

Ship friends still rockin’ after all these years at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. From left to right: Kathie (Hunter) Baldassari ’74-’77m, Roy Baldassari ’73-’81m, Bob Treon ’70, Deborah (Conrad) Treon ’74’81m, and Mary (Stitt) Brenner ’74.

Ken Jaworowski ’91, Princeton Junction, NJ, released his second novel, What About the Bodies, in paperback on September 1. Ship alumni Dean Koontz praised the thriller as “a twisty, chilling, and even touching tale.” Jaworowski’s third novel, The Beautiful Burn, is scheduled for release in March 2027 by Atlantic Crime. On June 13, the Capital Area Chapter of the PA Sports Hall of Fame included the induction of Harry “Four” Chapman ’90 and Edward C. Noon ’83 (from left to right, back row, third, Chapman, and fourth, Noon). Noon is also a 1995 SU Athletic Hall of Fame recipient. Douglas T. Byerly ’84, retired from Penn State University on January 31, after ten plus years of service in the Office of Admissions and over 37 years in scholastic and higher education. This work included 13 years in teaching at Line Mountain School District, and work at Lock Haven University, Bucknell University, and Penn College. Byerly currently serves as the Lock Haven City Controller. Grace (Bureau) Elsner ’84, Hanover, was a contributing author for the recently published book Trauma to Triumph: Stories of TBI Survivors and the Vital Role of Post-Acute Care. In this book, authors share their stories of recovery, resilience, and triumph over challenging and sometimes devastating circumstances, and offer a list of 94 post-acute resources that helped in their TBI recovery. Joseph M. Sullivan ’84, Harrisburg, welcomed his fourth grandchild, Thomas George Sullivan in September 2025. John E. Long ’87-’90m, Dry Run, after serving on the faculty in the biology department at Penn State Mont Alto for the last 35 years has retired from teaching. He now dedicates his time to his DJ services, Jumpin’ John DJ. Dr. Michael R. Smith ’87m, Waynesboro, will explore an experiment by Rev. Charles M. Sheldon that captured the attention of the world in 1900 when he speaks at a webinar for the Society of Christian Scholars. His presentation will highlight examples of purposely fake news in America that led to Sheldon’s newspaper experiment. Smith argues that Sheldon was prescient about the

Founding Alpha Omicron Pi sisters celebrated their 40th anniversary on a cruise to Bermuda. From left to right, Karen (Allen) Anthony ’86, Kathy (Laite) Herman ’86, Jill (McLaughlin) Martin ’87, and Stacey (Leh) Reifsnyder ’87. future of the press and tried to stem inflammatory news that doesn’t redeem the culture and, worse, ignores the claims of Christ.

coach through ICM (Institute for Coaching Mastery), guiding clients to live with greater intention and step into what’s possible.

Barrie Ann (McBride) George ’88-’89m, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Gateway to Equity Award, the highest honor presented by the Carlisle branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW). George, vice president of Development and Communications at Safe Harbour, Inc., has dedicated more than three decades to advancing equity through her work in human services.

Lisa (Rosenberry) Wilder, PhD ’89, Livonia, NY, has been appointed associate dean of the AACSB accredited School of Business at The State University of New York at Genesco. SUNY Geneseo, in Western New York, is New York’s Public Honors College.

Traci Lower ’88-’96m, Gettysburg, who writes under the pen name Jessica James, has released The Monarch Alliance, a dual-timeline historical mystery that is set in the Hudson Valley. The Midwest Book Review called the novel “a suspenseful and delicate walk between mystery, history, and thriller tension.” Lower is an award-winning author of more than a dozen novels and is owner of Past Lane Travels, a leading history and travel blog

90s

Jodie (Kramer) Wolfe ’88, Shippensburg, released her third book in her Time to Come Home Series in June. Sarah’s Search features the Shippensburg State Normal School in 1878. While the book is fiction, it does feature local businesses, churches, and people from the time period in both Shippensburg and Newburg. Tia (Haag) Scott ’89, Camp Hill, founder of Tomorrow In Action, is now certified as a Mastery Method

Susan (Thornburg) Baer ’90, Hanover, co-authored the 2025 book chapter, “Indigenous Student Internships: Advancing Social Equity in Higher Education in the United States,” with Mai Angela, Victor Ferreros, and Daniel Hajdo in Indigenous Experiences with Collaborative Governance: Moving Toward Equitable Partnerships, edited by Michele Companion and Jason D. Rivera (Berghahn Books, Oxford, England). The book won an award in the public administration field.

Lisa Bowen-Gotwals ’90, Sellersville, and three generations of Raiders: Amy (Larkin) Gotwals ’93, Abby Gotwals (current student), Edwin Gotwals ’64, and Jack Gotwals (current student).

Dr. Teresa (Fisher) Black ’92-’98m-’26edd, Fannettsburg, graduated in May 2026 with her doctorate in educational leadership from Shippensburg University. She was in the inaugural nursery class at the Rowland Lab School and has been “in Ship” since she was four years old. Dr. Christine Charyton ’92, Pataskala, OH, entrepreneur, farmer, and rancher, has a private psychology practice on her ranch Veselka Farms. Charyton specializes in individuals navigating both psychological and neurological conditions, wielding cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and positive psychology. Jiem B. Cranney ’92, McKinney, TX, elected as CEO for BlueOval SK, a 50/50 joint venture between Ford Motor Company and SK On. Dr. Jarrod Gipe ’93, Carlisle, accepted a new position as medical director and anesthesia chairman at OSS Health Good Hope Ambulatory Surgery Center in Enola. Christine D. Johnson ’93, Summerville, SC, was the 2026 TEDx Charleston Artist in April at Charleston Music Hall, Charleston, SC. Johnson is a mixed media abstract painter, poet, author, and wellness workshop facilitator who is passionate about creating introspective art for wellness. Jennifer (Adelman) Barr ’94, Wayne, released her next middle grade novel, Thunder and Mercy, a lively, genre-blending mystery that will appeal to readers who enjoy historical intrigue, clever puzzles, and a strong-willed heroine. The book received a starred review by School Library Journal, calling it, “A must-purchase for middle grade collections.” Kirkus Reviews describes it as, “a story of intrigue, treason, spies, and daring escapes.”

SUMMER 2026

with Frederick County MD Public Schools and was recently appointed as CEO and lead clippie/tour guide with Maryland Double Deckers company in Frederick.

Chris McFadden ’90, Jenny (Mitchell) McFadden ’90, Max Scannapieco ’91, Tina (Ciavaglia) Scannapieco ’91, Don Moddrel ’90, Jennifer (Buss) Moddrel ’91, Nicole (Lalic) Delson ’90, Aleta (Mann) Kammerer ’91, and Cindy (Brookover) Walsh ’90 pose in front of the tree on the Philadelphia Holiday Lights Trolley Tour.

Michael B. Schneider ’94, Freehold, NJ, retired April 30 after 30 years with the Allenhurst Police Department. Schneider was hired as a patrolman in 1996, promoted to sergeant in 2006, promoted to captain in 2008, and as chief of police in 2017. He found it especially rewarding to work for a department that uses “community policing” as the foundation of everything we have done, instead of just using it as just a slogan. Amanda (Sowerbrower) Portner ’96, Frederick, MD, celebrated her retirement from 30 years teaching

Tanya L. Miller ’97, Newville, The Executive Board of the Pennsylvania Athletic Trainers’ Society (PATS) has chosen Miller for induction into the Pennsylvania athletic training Hall of Fame for 2026. Miller’s extensive and impactful contributions to the profession of Athletic Training in the Commonwealth have ranged from championing the legislative and licensing efforts of Athletic Trainers as chair of the PATS Governmental Affairs Committee (2011-Present) to serving on the PATS Executive Board and being the liaison between PATS and the State Boards of Medicine and Osteopathic Medicine. Natrice D. Johnson ’99, Philadelphia, celebrated 15 years of ownership of Candy’s Kids Learning Academy, LLC on January 24. Over the past decade and a half, the organization has grown into a trusted early childhood education provider with multiple childcare facilities across Philadelphia, which are Keystone STAR 4-rated, and one is NAFCC-accredited. Timothy R. Snyder ’99m, Hagerstown, MD, released his second book in April, Stonewall Jackson’s Winter Operations: The Raids Against the C&O Canal and the Bath-Romney Campaign, December 1861 to February 1862.

00s Heather A. Seich ’00, Alexandria, VA, Cooper Carry’s marketing manager, was recognized by industry peers from the American Institute of Architects Northern Virginia Chapter Women in Architecture Committee and Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) Washington DC Chapter during Women’s History Month for her commitment to promoting women in the industry. Erich J. Cawalla ’01, Reading, latest original music release “Doowoppin” was played on Sirius XM Radio’s Doowop Stop with Cool Bobby B. Cawalla makes a busy fulltime living as a musician, recording artist, educator, booking agent, and recording studio owner.

Jennifer (Rehmeyer) Wargo ’03 and Monique (Stauffer) Klunk ’03 head abroad every year with their Ship flag to set sail to MomCamp. Year four landed them in Croatia. Joseph C. Jenkins ’07, Atlanta, GA, has been appointed executive director of Digital Learning Innovations at Kennesaw State University. He joins

KSU after spending the past 11 years at Georgia Tech, where he led initiatives supporting the institution’s asynchronous learning and development team. Sarah McDowell ’08m, Annville, was promoted on January 1 to Vice Provost of Student Affairs and Dean of Students at Lebanon Valley College. Ivy R. Buchan ’09m, Mechanicsburg, principal of Invoke Nonprofit Consulting, celebrates her firms one-year anniversary. Buchan, a 2021 Outstanding Young Alumni Award recipient, is a nonprofit strategist with 20+ years helping organizations strengthen board governance, deepen stakeholder engagement, and raise millions of dollars to advance their missions. Michael R. Drane ’09, Castro Valley, CA, recently released his first novel through Sunbury Press, Their Wonted Fires. The novel tells the story of the Moran family as they face the trials of the Gilded Age, losing their farm, and questioning whether they have the strength to survive their new industrialized world. Cassandra (Armold) Morrow ’12’14m and husband, Austin, opened Mountain Laurel Fitness Co., a group-based functional fitness gym in Carlisle, specializing in hybrid training that blends strength, conditioning, and skill development into every session.

CAREER CORNER

Raider Career Ready Program Launches for All First-Year Students When Shippensburg alumni reflect on their college experience, many point to the opportunities outside the classroom that helped shape their careers— whether it was attending a networking event, joining a student organization, creating a first resume, or engaging in campus activities. Today’s students explore career paths earlier than ever with the introduction of the Raider Career Ready program discover badge, a new career‑readiness initiative offered to all first‑year students. The Raider Career Ready program is designed to help students intentionally build the skills employers value most while exploring academic and career pathways from their very first semester.

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

The program is structured around the eight career readiness competencies identified by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE): communication, critical thinking, teamwork, technology, leadership, professionalism, career and selfdevelopment, and global awareness. Students complete a series of guided activities that introduce them to key campus resources and

career development opportunities. Raiders graduate with more than a degree. The initiative also connects with the university’s Work-Based Learning initiative which creates meaningful opportunities for alumni engagement. As students progress through the four-year badge program, they are encouraged to connect with alumni mentors, attend networking events, and learn from professionals working in their fields of interest. career.ship.edu/rcr Interested in supporting the next generation of Raiders? E-mail the Career Center at career@ ship.edu.

Daryl L. Staley ’12’13m, York, has earned the Certified Valuation Analyst (CVA) credential through the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts (NACVA). Director of Business Valuation and Advisory, he serves as a member-in-charge of the York office working with closely held businesses and individuals on tax planning and compliance, financial statement preparation, and consulting. He supports clients across a range of industries, with a focus on construction and real estate. Sarah (Brotzman) Leahy ’13, Carlisle, associate director of campus life for Residence Life and Housing at Dickinson College was named treasurer of the Mid-Atlantic Association of College and University Housing Officers. Sarah was selected to be a part of the 2026 class of Leadership Cumberland. Allyson M. Oppmann ’13, Warminster, recently opened a private practice for adults seeking mental health treatment. IG: CouchPotatoTherapist Jacqueline (Maguire) Campbell ’14 and husband Daniel ’14, welcomed their third daughter, Leah, to the world in February 2026. Heidi Freeland-Trail ’15m, Etters, was honored in March as a 2026 Woman of Excellence by the YWCA Greater Harrisburg. This recognition celebrates her leadership and impact in advancing equity, fostering inclusive workplace cultures, and supporting community well-being. She serves as a senior HR business partner at McNees Wallace & Nurick. Zach T. McLaren ’15-’19m, Carlisle, has received the Young Leader Award from The Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA). McLaren is a senior manager with McKonly & Asbury LLP. Tommy Eby ’21, Newport News, VA, recently completed his fifth year of teaching in Newport News and was honored to be recognized as Teacher of the Year. Morgan (Landman) Horst ’21-’22m, Clear Spring, MD, has been named the 2026 Emerging Business Leader of the Year by the Cumberland Valley Business Alliance (CVBA). Horst was honored at CVBA’s annual Awards breakfast on March 25.

Justin Landers ’21 married Veronica Lynch ’22 on June 13 at Cameron Estate Inn in Mount Joy, PA. The wedding party included Zachary Helm ’12, Nora Dorsey(Ormsbee) ’20-’23m, Noah Sowers ’20, Emily Enerah (Anderson) ’21, Connor Andruchek ’21, and current student Kaylei Wentz with many more SU alumni who were there to celebrate the couple’s special day! Zane Graff ’26, joined Boyer & Ritter as a full-time associate accountant in the Chambersburg office providing tax, accounting, and assurance services while collaborating with engagement teams to support client needs. Graff previously served as an accounting intern for one and a half years.

In Memoriam R. Elizabeth “Betty” (Herr) Gregory ’45 Margaret (Seitz) Sohaney ’48 Shirley (Levine) Karp ’49 Gertrude (Yakoumis) Dickinson ’53 Ruth (Reese) Miley ’53 Dorothy (Wallace) Plank ’54 James C. Failor ’55 Pauline (Adams) Sheetz ’56 Audrienne (Northcraft) Whitsel ’56 J. Owen Statler ’57-’72m James N. Baker ’58-’83m Marian (Donahoe) Connelly ’58 Marlene (Kissinger) Fessler ’58 Ronald D. McDonald ’58 David I. O’Brien Jr. ’58 Donald F. Shriner ’58 George W. Wagner Jr. ’58 Dorothy (Hunsberger) Martin ’59 Earl B. Truckenmiller ’59 Wallace R. Conway ’60 Ruth (McClain) Bistline ’61-’77m Larry E. Knepper ’61 Helen (Lytle) Porter ’61 Carl E. Fuller ’62 Wilbur M. Spangler ’62 Gerald W. Williams ’62 Ann (Hanawalt) Casner ’63 Paul J. Gannon ’63 Donna (Koller) Grubb ’63 Donald W. McIntire ’63 Robert L. Mentzer ’63 Robert W. Weibley ’63 Robert F. Blacker ’64

Shirley (Imler) Johns ’64 Linda (Wills) Kahler ’64 Nancy (Ross) Kuhn ’64 Ronald R. Maslanik ’64 Lana K. Glaser ’65M Lois (Debliss) Newell ’65 Jean (Hand) Sheeler ’65 Paul M. Bingaman ’66-’69m Linda (Schleifer) McGuire ’66 Michael F. McNeill ’66 Anthony D. Merceruio ’66m Esther (Craft) Miller ’66m John W. Seburn ’66m Joanna L. Snyder ’66m Lohman E. Glass ’67 Dale L. Grimm ’67-’71m Eileen (McCleary) Prowant ’67 Phyllis (Meckley) Williams ’67 Kristen (Swank) Conrad ’68 Ray E. Miller ’68 Gloria (Reese) Smith ’68 Charles A. Koch ’69 Linda (Miller) Morgan ’69-’73m Arthur R. Schonheiter ’69m Bradley D. Stell ’69m Ronald F. Burchfield ’70 Michael S. Capp ’70 Betty (Barrick) Evelhoch ’70-’73m Molly C. Finucane ’70-’74m Robert W. Fleming ’70 Shirley (Davis) Ogburn ’70m Brenda (Burg) Nori ’70 Connie (Burkhart) Reddy ’70 Edwin W. Shives ’70m Donald Deitz ’71 Lt. Gen. Charles W. Dyke ’71m Diane (Merritt) Greenwood ’71 Stanley J. Gresko ’71 Dennis M. Gordon ’71-’74m Creedon R. Hoffman ’71 Col. Loma O. Allen ’72m Roger A. Berkheimer ’72 Deborah (Conrad) Bogar ’72 Col. Anthony P. DeLuca ’72m Sara Anne (Suder) Harvey ’72 Michaelyn Neiger ’72m George T. Wilhide ’72m Jon W. Williams ’72m Michael A. Gotwalt ’73 W. Craig Hottenstein ’73-’79m Robert E. Kerstetter ’73 Constance L. Yocum ’73-’78m Philip Alvarez ’74 Wynanne (Fortna) Demler ’74 Mary (Kiner) Heiser ’74 Betty (Dorsey) Myers ’74-’79m Janet E. Rohrer ’74m Marilyn E. Seiders ’74 Dorothy (Neay) Thomas ’74m Gregory F. Garland ’75-’84m

Debora J. Meenan ’75m Diane (Palmer) Richardson ’75-’94m Mary Crawford Smith ’75m Neil C. Cline ’76 James W. Gallagher III ’76 Cora S. Herbst ’76m Charles Robert Hanna ’77m John H. Nelson ’77 Kenneth M. Silberstein ’77 Gary S. Wolfer ’77 Charita (Pettijohn) Cox ’78 Theresa M. Liero ’78 Col. Luther Eugene Thweatt ’78m Dennis W. Lehman ’79 Judith (Gray) Ochs ’80m John A. Toms ’81-’82m Sheri (Hausman) Ward ’81 Robin Houtz ’82 Penelope A. Ritter ’82m Col. Gerald L. Wright ’82m Holli Buchter ’83 Col. John A. Lasch ’83m Nancy (Wirth) DeVito ’84 Leslee A. Replogle ’84m Sharon (Smith) Elbin ’85 Lt. Col. Robert A. Handly ’85m Dortha (Danner) Haskins ’85m Col. Lewis I. Jeffries ’85m Kenneth L. Minefield ’87 Lt. Col. Thomas W. Baker ’88m Lt. Col. Samuel A. Brown ’88m Lauri (Mackelburg) Davis ’88 Robert S. Cowman ’89m Allen P. Neely ’89 Megan (Delaney) Dath ’90 Timothy C. Werner ’90 Richard B. Elias ’92m Richard E. Pollins ’92 Anna C. Sheaffer ’93 Sara S. Kepner ’95m Stephanie (Reighard) Roadcap ’95 Corey E. Jones ’98 Ryan W. Paff ’98 Ellen (Kozlowski) Shiffer ’98 Kristoffer A. Krebs ’00 John C. Stevenson ’00 Jennifer Lundberg ’01 Brett J. Owen ’01 Jennifer H. Connolly ’02 Stephen D. Hudson ’02m Matthew R. Kauffman ’02 George A. Deichler ’03 Lindsay M. Rees ’04 Melissa (Wilbur) Morgan ’06-’08m Kristen (Houck) Yeager ’06-’07m Heather (Chantiles) Light ’08 Samuel M. Hess II ’10m Shelley (Bigham) Kump ’11 Evan J. Wosochlo ’21m

SUMMER 2026

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➍ ➊–➍ Attendees had a swinging good time Valentine’s Weekend with cocktails, dinner, and dancing to the band Brookens & Co. with Brandon Brookens ’04. Save the date for our 2027 event, Saturday, February 13, 2027! ➎ Alumni association board directors Lance Hines-Butts ’22, Taylor Mason ’17-’18m, JoAnn Baldwin ’81-’89m, and Andrea Addison ’77-’79m, along with Greg Fisher ’97, SU Foundation, hosted a great group of alumni volunteers at the Central PA Food Bank in Harrisburg for a night of service. ➏–➒ With the help of Steven Belmonte ’21 as event co-host (picture ➐, second from left), alumni enjoyed an afternoon social in Charlotte, NC. ➓ Raleigh, NC alumni event co-hosts Ian ’17 and Deanna (Brunner) Kubinak ’17 along with Robin (Kubinak) Driskill ’88 hosted an alumni group in Raleigh the same weekend. ⓫–⓭ President Charles Patterson, First Lady Colleen, and Lori Smith, alumni director, hosted alumni and friends at the Martin House and Stewart Hall at the 2026 Kentucky Derby Party. The event raised approximately $6,000 for the student emergency fund. ⓮ During Greek Week, eighteen alumni from fraternity and sorority life attended a new event during Greek Week, an All-Greek Life Networking event. Alumni spoke with students about personal and professional development and practiced networking skills. ⓯–⓱ “Ship Happened” in Denver, CO again with Denver alumni hosts Doug Puchalla ’91, Kim (Manning) Ursetta ’94, and Brian Duffy ’91 (picture ⓯, center through right) hosting alumni. Retired College of Business associate dean, Tony Winter ’76, was in the area visiting family and made it a point to stop by to say hello to everyone.

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Continue the conversation with Ship and our friends online. We’ll be looking for your contribution. Who knows… your Ship-related posts, and pics could be shared in Ship Magazine!

⓱ SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

ShippensburgU ShippensburgU

ShippensburgAlumni ShipAlumni

#ShipIsIt #ShipHappens

ALUMNI ON THE ROAD For registration or additional information, visit ship.edu/alumni, e-mail alumni@ship.edu, or call (717) 477-1218.

CHAMBERSBURG

NORTH CAROLINA

Alumni Hospitality Suite at IceFest 2027

Ship in Raleigh and Charlotte Alumni Socials 2027

Saturday, January 30, 2027

Ship is returning for an early spring 2027 weekend to host alumni socials in both Raleigh and Charlotte. We’ll have lite appetizers, Ship goodies, and great conversation. Just bring yourself-plus ones welcome. Watch your e-mail inbox or check online for the date this fall.

Take the chill off and join the Ship family for hot cocoa and cookies at Chambersburg’s IceFest. Bring your family to the first floor conference room inside the Heritage Center located on the square from 11:00am–1:00pm. tinyurl.com/ shipicefest27

2026 Alumni Association Golf Tournament at Iron Valley Golf Club Friday, September 18

ship.edu/homecoming

Annual Ship Alumni Social at Pagoda City Brewhouse Saturday, November 21 Alumni in the Reading area, join fellow Ship alumni for our 2026 afternoon social! We’ll provide some light appetizers, fellowSHIP, great conversation, and Ship goodies. No charge to attend, cash bar. Your RSVP will help us prepare for our allotted space and appetizers. tinyurl.com/shipreading26

Legacy Pinning Program Saturday, September 19, 10:30am

tinyurl.com/ shipgolf26

See page 23 for information and check online for updated weekend activities.

READING

SHIPPENSBURG

The SU Alumni Association Golf Tournament is the largest fundraiser for the Shippensburg University Alumni Association and the Alumni Board Legacy Scholarship. You can help by playing a round of golf and/or showing your support through a sponsorship, including being a phantom golfer if unable to participate. Owners and operators Jonathan Byler ’97 and Kathy ’97 (Hallowell) Byler, along with director of operations, Jeff Harper ’85, look forward to welcoming their fellow alumni and friends to Iron Valley Golf Club—ranked the #8 course you can play in Pennsylvania by Golf Magazine.

Friday and Saturday, October 16–17

Be a part of a Ship tradition which honors the past and present and celebrates your family legacy at Ship! Shippensburg alumni parents, grandparents, and aunts/uncles of currently enrolled students are invited to attend a special Legacy Pinning Ceremony with the President and the Alumni Association Board of Directors to welcome current students into the Ship family. The pinning ceremony takes place annually during Ship’s Family Day. Students may attend the ceremony with their alumni family members at any point during their time at Shippensburg. While many families participate in the ceremony during their student’s first year, families may choose to participate any year, including their senior year. Registration for Legacy Pinning is separate from Family Day registration. Register for the Legacy Pinning at tinyurl.com/ legacypinning2026

Valentine’s Weekend Dinner and Dance

save the date

LEBANON

Homecoming 2026

Saturday, February 13, 2027 Held inside Stewart Hall on campus, join us for an evening of hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, dinner, dessert, and dancing with the three-piece band, Brookens and Co., led by Brandon Brookens ’04. For the love of Ship, don’t miss this event! Details and registration at link. qr.ship.edu/LoveShip

Derby Day Party Saturday, May 1, 2027, 4:00pm–8:00pm

Alumni Weekend 2027 Friday and Saturday, June 4–5, 2027

For a complete listing of alumni events, scan the QR code or visit ship.edu/alumni/ alumni-calendar

SUMMER 2026

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION

Family Legacy Inspires Connor Beck’s Ship Journey For senior Supply Chain Management major Connor Beck, attending Shippensburg University was more than choosing a college—it was continuing a family legacy. After attending his first Open House, Connor turned to his parents and said, “I am going here.” With his sister, mother,

two aunts, uncle, and grandfather all Ship graduates, the decision felt like home. His grandfather, Albert Mason Jr., graduated from Shippensburg State College in 1961 before returning to teach public relations for 27 years and later serving as alumni director. Connor still cherishes telling his grandparents the news. “My grandfather raised

“I want to make the same positive impact in my career and community that others have made in my life.”

Connor Beck ’27 (middle) with grandfather, Albert Mason Jr. ’61 and mother Cindy (Mason) Beck ’91 at the SU Foundation’s Spirit of Generosity Dinner.

his fist and said, ‘Yes! Congratulations!’” he recalls. Just three weeks later, his grandmother unexpectedly passed away, making that celebration one of their final conversations together. Today, Connor is creating his own legacy as a Student Ambassador, Peer Anchor, Treasurer of the Supply Chain Management Club, and member of Kappa Sigma. His Ship experiences have also led to internships with Pilot Company and Pella. Scholarship support has helped make those opportunities possible. A scholarship established by benefactor Judy Fogelsonger with the SU Foundation has supported Connor for the past three years, allowing him to focus on his education and career preparation. “Thanks to Ship, I found lifelong friends, incredible mentors, and opportunities that have prepared me for what’s next,” Connor says. “I hope to make the same positive impact in my career and community that others have made in my life.”

CLASS OF 1976 50th REUNION GIFT PROVIDES PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOTS FOR SHIP STUDENTS Members of the Shippensburg State College Class of 1976 are helping future Raiders make a strong first impression through their 50th Reunion Class Gift. Through the SU Foundation they have raised $24,737 to purchase an Iris Air professional headshot booth, providing students with free, highquality headshots for LinkedIn profiles, resumes, digital portfolios, and other professional networking platforms. Their gift funds the booth hardware, shipping and installation, and the first year of the annual subscription service. The fully ADA-compliant system ensures all students can benefit from this career readiness resource.

The Career Center plans to collaborate with offices across campus, including Fraternity and Sorority Life, and academic programs, to incorporate professional headshots into existing career development initiatives. “We are incredibly grateful to the members of the Class of 1976 for investing in a resource that will benefit Ship students for years to come,” said Victoria Kerr, executive director of the Career Center. “A professional headshot is often a student’s first impression with employers or graduate schools, and this gift helps ensure every student has the opportunity to present themselves professionally.” The generosity of the alumni who supported the Class of 1976 50th Reunion Gift will continue creating opportunities for Ship students for years to come. By removing the cost barrier to professional photography, their investment will help students build confidence, strengthen their professional presence, and put their best foot forward as they prepare for internships, graduate school, and their careers.

Members of the Class of 1976 present check to President Patterson during the 50th Class Reunion Dinner.

SHIPPENSBURG UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE

Investing in Tomorrow’s Workforce: How EITC Supports Ship’s dual enrollment students Together, Shippensburg University’s dual enrollment program, the Shippensburg University Foundation, and Pennsylvania’s Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program create meaningful educational opportunities for local students while helping strengthen the future workforce of our region. During the 2025–2026 academic year, Ship’s dual enrollment program, Ship Start, served 200 students from 10 high schools across three counties. The program gives high school students the opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school, helping them build confidence, experience college-level coursework, and explore future academic and career pathways. For many high school students and families, however, affordability can be a challenge. With no federal or state financial aid available for dual enrollment programs, the average cost can place these opportunities out of reach. Support from businesses through Pennsylvania’s EITC program helps remove that barrier. The impact of this investment is evident. Currently, 34 percent of dual enrollment students matriculate to

My experience as a Ship Start student helped me learn about the new technology Ship uses to make the transition to college easier. I also saw how life differs as a college student compared to high school. I met with professors and enjoyed the structure of classes as well as collaborating with other students both in and outside of the classroom. —Ethan Henry, Mechanical Engineering

“Orrstown Bank is honored to support Ship Start through Shippensburg University Foundation, a program that helps Pictured left to right, Dr. Leslie Folmer Clinton, President and CEO, Shippensburg University Foundation and Philip Fague, Executive Vice President, Orrstown Bank.

high school students enroll in courses at Shippensburg University and take meaningful steps toward their future.” Philip E. Fague, CPA, Executive Vice President, Orrstown Bank

Shippensburg University after high school graduation, exceeding national averages for students who transition from dual enrollment into full-time undergraduate study. These students arrive on campus better prepared for academic success and with a clearer vision for their future. Through Pennsylvania’s EITC program, eligible businesses can redirect a portion of their state tax dollars to support educational opportunities that directly benefit students in their communities while receiving significant Pennsylvania tax credits. It is a powerful way for companies to invest in local talent, strengthen educational access, and contribute to workforce development throughout the region.

By supporting Shippensburg University’s Ship Start dual enrollment program through EITC and the SU Foundation, businesses help students take an important step toward higher education and career success while investing in the long-term vitality of our communities. We invite alumni and business leaders to join us in expanding access to these transformative opportunities for the next generation. To learn more about participating in the EITC program and supporting Shippensburg University’s Dual Enrollment Program, please contact Chrystal Miracle at CKMIRA@ sufoundation.org

500 Newburg Road, Shippensburg, PA 17257 Phone: (717) 477-1377 • Fax: (717) 477-4060 Visit us on the web at SUFoundation.org. Like us on G e

The SU Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, is the official gift-receiving entity for Shippensburg University.

SUMMER 2026

1871 Old Main Drive Shippensburg, PA 17257-2299

The America250 Mobile Unit visited campus and the PIAA Track and Field States as Ship celebrated its 50 year partnership with the PIAA (Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association, Inc.).