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EsportsTHE GROWTH OF
Page 8
Professional Minors Page 14 | New Student Commons Page 18 | Advancing the Mission Page 20
VenturesStevenson University Vol. 39 | No. 1 | Summer 2018
As seen on the cover of this issue of Ventures, Stevenson’s new Quad opened this
spring on the Owings Mills campus. The Quad provides an attractive green space,
gathering spot, and walkable link between the School of Business and Leadership,
Garrison Hall, and Rockland Center. The Quad will continue to be developed in
the coming year, with seating areas and other features on the horizon. We invite
you to visit the Owings Mills campus to enjoy this scenic part of the Stevenson
student experience.
President Elliot Hirshman, Ph.D.
Chair, Board of Trustees James B. Stradtner, CFA
Vice President, University Advancement Christopher R. Vaughan
Vice President, Marketing and Digital Communications and Publisher John A. Buettner
Editor Sherry E. Bithell
Design Atsuko Biars, Tiffany Reese
Contributors Chip Burkey, Cierra Colón, Alison Cuomo, Samantha Brooke Murray, Emily Reely, Greg Royce, Brandon Seidl, Dan Walker
Advancing the Mission Contributors Meghan Culbertson, Judith Jackson, Allison Humphries ’11, Office of University Advancement
Photography Maximilian Franz, Aaron Harris, Nora Long, Sabina Moran, Dan Siebenhaar, SU Photography Interns, Office of University Advancement
Questions or comments about this issue? Please contact: Sherry E. Bithell, AVP, Marketing Communications Stevenson University 100 Campus Circle Owings Mills, Maryland 21117 443-352-4483 [email protected]
Please visit stevenson.edu for the latest news about the university.
FEATURES
Next Level: The Growth of Esports at Stevenson UniversityOne of the fastest-growing collegiate-level student activities,
esports has come to Stevenson. Learn about this exciting new
venture.
New Professional Minors Give Students a Major AdvantageStevenson has introduced five new career-focused professional
minors to give students an edge in a competitive job market.
The Garrison Hall Student CommonsTake a tour of the new commons that offers students more
opportunities to interact, play, and get fit.
8
14
18
VenturesNews for alumni and friends of Stevenson University Vol. 39 | No. 1 | Summer 2018
Starting with this issue, Ventures magazine is breaking new ground. The university will now produce two issues of the magazine each year instead of the previous four. This will allow us to present a more robust publication with additional news and stories about our students and community. Additionally, we will continue to produce an accompanying online version of Ventures with supplemental content such as additional photos, longer articles, and videos. If you haven’t done so already, visit us at stevenson.edu/ventures.
No part of this publication may be reproduced in print or digital form without prior permission from the publisher.
IN THIS ISSUE
2 President's Perspective
3 News Briefs
20 Advancing the Mission
27 Class Notes
This summer marks an important milestone. June 11
is the 10th anniversary of Villa Julie College becoming
Stevenson University.
This milestone is an opportunity to reflect upon the debt of gratitude
the Stevenson community owes to the founders of Villa Julie College.
It is also a moment to reflect upon the values of Stevenson and Villa
Julie. Our close-knit community of caring faculty, staff, and students
tie our past to our present. Similarly, our efforts to help students
develop professionally mark another important continuity. Every day,
our faculty and staff help our students experience opportunities to
grow, develop, and reach their fullest potential—just as they did when
we were founded 70 years ago.
This heritage has produced many successes. In the past year, we
successfully completed our Middle States reaccreditation process,
and, in May, nearly 800 traditional and Stevenson University Online
graduates crossed the stage to receive their bachelor’s and master’s
degrees. As part of our focus on creating career connections for
students, we are introducing five professional minors this fall. You
will read about these and more in this issue.
Since our last issue of Ventures, the university has renovated
facilities for student activities in Garrison Hall, creating spaces
for student clubs and organizations, a satellite fitness center, and
facilities for our new esports club. We also created new green space
in front of Rockland Center and Garrison Hall. This green space
provides opportunities for communal gatherings as well as a walkable
connection between our residence halls, Rockland Center, Garrison
Hall, and the Brown School of Business and Leadership.
Last, I am pleased to share that the first phase in the development
of the Rosewood site is complete with the demolition of 20 buildings
on the site. We are now working with the State of Maryland to prepare
for site grading that will allow us to develop roadways, athletic fields,
and recreational facilities.
As we say here, it’s a great time to be a Mustang! I hope you enjoy
this issue of Ventures and learning more about your university.
Elliot L. Hirshman, Ph.D.
PERSPECTIVEPRESIDENT'S
| VENTURES/SUMMER 20182
NEWSB R I E F S
New Vice President for Student Affairs Named
Stevenson University has appointed Tiffany Sanchez as
Vice President for Student Affairs. Sanchez, who most
recently served as Interim Dean of Student Life at Johns
Hopkins University, started on Feb. 15.
Sanchez brings more than 20 years of experience in
student affairs and residence life, including the past 15
years overseeing student programming, housing, health
and wellness, diversity and inclusion, and student
conduct. She joined The Johns Hopkins University in
2013 as Associate Dean of Student Experience where
she provided leadership for student orientation and the
first-year experience as well as student arts programming,
fraternity and sorority life, and student leadership and
involvement. Previously, she served as Director of New
Student Programs at American University, 2001-2013,
and held positions with Youth for Understanding
International Exchange and Heidelberg College in Ohio.
Sanchez is a graduate of the University of New Mexico
and holds a Master’s in College Student Personnel from
Bowling Green State University in Ohio.
Read about our new Vice President of University Advancement on page 23.
Rosewood: Preparing the Way for Our FutureIn summer 2017, Stevenson University reached an agreement
with the state of Maryland to acquire the former Rosewood
Center property in Owings Mills. The 117-acre site is adjacent
to Stevenson’s existing Owings Mills campus and nearly dou-
bles the total acreage of the University.
The Rosewood project proceeds as scheduled with the
completed remediation and demolition of 20 buildings on
the site this spring. Stevenson’s next step will be to secure the
permits needed from the State of Maryland to begin grading
the site. Site grading will help us set the stage for the future
development of infrastructure such as roads, athletic fields, and
recreational facilities. We are excited about the possibilities that
Rosewood will offer our students. Stay tuned for updates.
3STEVENSON.EDU |
Tiffany Sanchez
NEWSB R I E F S
Student Design Agency Provides Real-World Career Connection
Last fall, students in the inaugural Design Center
course taught in the School of Design learned first-
hand how it is to work for more than one client. The
course, co-taught by Stephanie Verni, M.F.A., Professor
of Business Communication, and Inna Alesina, M.F.A.,
Assistant Professor of Art, served as an integrated mar-
keting communication agency during the fall semester,
tasking students with understanding clients’ needs and
concerns.
The first client of the 18 students in the course—
who were business communication, graphic design,
and film and moving image majors—was the School of
Design itself. Their mission: to establish a new Design
Center. Students researched possible names and created
brand identities to showcase the in-house, student-run
agency. These were pitched to faculty in the School of
Design who ultimately chose the name “The Mill at
Stevenson University.”
Once The Mill was established, the students focused
on their second client, the Eastern Communication
Association (ECA). Leeanne Bell McManus, Ph.D.,
Professor of Business Communication, was in charge of
planning the annual convention for ECA in Pittsburgh,
Pa., held April 25-29, and she worked with the students
in The Mill course to promote the event. Students
created collateral such as invitations, brochures,
convention logos, 30-second videos, and social media
messages to spread the word about Pittsburgh, ECA,
and the convention.
Founded in 1910, the Eastern Communication
Association is the oldest professional communication
association in the United States, and Stevenson
students were able to work with scholars, teachers, and
other students from across the region. Students from
The Mill also presented on a panel at the convention,
sharing their experiences of working with a client
based on what they learned in the classroom.
4 | VENTURES/SUMMER 2018
NEWSB R I E F S
Director of Bands Leads U.S. Army Band
This spring, Mark Lortz, Interim Director of Music
and Director of Bands, had the honor of directing
the United States Army Field Band as they prepared
for the Norsk Militær (Norwegian Military) Tattoo.
The tattoo, which was held April 20-21, is a military
music show held every two years with participants
from Norway and abroad. With more than 800 par-
ticipants on stage, it is Norway's largest indoor show.
Lortz was contacted by the Army Field Band—
one of six premiere military bands in the world—to
help design the show and then teach it to the band
members. “Many of the band members have never
had marching experience, except for boot camp,”
Lortz explains. “I met with the design team to get an
initial idea of the program and offer suggestions on
what would be the most impactful moments of the
show.” He also spent several rehearsals with the band
working on marching fundamentals, choreography,
and musical performance.
“The Army band was the only U.S. band invited to
the prestigious international event and represented
our country proudly,” says Lortz.
Two Fraternities Coming to CampusAfter assessing student interest and requests, Stevenson Uni-
versity has decided to invite two national fraternities, Phi Mu
Delta and Phi Beta Sigma, to colonize on campus. They will
complement the university’s two sororities, Alpha Kappa Alpha
Sorority, Inc., and Phi Sigma Sigma.
A committee of faculty, staff, and student representatives
was created to consider the Stevenson community’s needs and
expectations, to evaluate proposals from fraternities, and to
select groups to invite to campus. After a thorough review of the
proposals and community meetings, the committee offered two
nationally recognized fraternities the opportunity to become
part Stevenson’s new Fraternity and Sorority Life community.
Starting in fall 2018, Phi Mu Delta and Phi Beta Sigma Fra-
ternity, Inc., will begin the process to become Stevenson’s first
two fraternities. Representatives of each organization will host
interest and informational events on campus in the fall, dates
to be announced, for students who wish to become founding
members of the fraternities in fall 2018.
To watch a video about Mark Lortz’s experience in training the band, go to the online version of this article at stevenson.edu/ventures.
STEVENSON.EDU | 5
NEWSB R I E F S
New University Honors Program To Launch in
Fall 2019
The university is developing a new four-year Honors Program that brings to-
gether honors general education classes with honors experiences in students’
majors to help them become independent, creative, and analytical thinkers.
The Honors Program will allow students to build relationships and make con-
nections between disciplines and with faculty and fellow students and to pur-
sue research and scholarship.
Rivka Glaser, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Biology, has been selected to be
the Honors Faculty Director and will lead the further development of the
program. The students in the Honors Program as well as those in our Service
and Leadership Programs will have opportunities for exceptional experiences
such as meeting distinguished political, social, and cultural leaders through
the Baltimore Speakers Series.
For a longer version of this article, please go to the online version at stevenson.edu/ventures.
Stevenson has received approval from the Maryland Higher Education Commission to offer the
state’s first online Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics. Combining cyber-
security concepts and skills with those in the field of digital forensics creates a unique degree
specifically designed to respond to the growing demand for more specialists with the expertise to
combat cyber crimes. The program will begin in fall 2018 for Stevenson University Online and
fall 2019 for traditional undergraduates in the School of Business and Leadership.
New Program Approved by MHEC: Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics
Mission: I’m Home Celebrates
10 Years of Service
The Mission: I’m Home student service
organization is celebrating its 10-year an-
niversary by continuing to help rehabilitate
communities in New Orleans, Baton Rouge,
New Jersey, Staten Island, and Baltimore.
These trips give students the opportunity to
spend their breaks helping those in need.
During the past decade, nearly 700
students have attended 25 service trips that
have helped more than 50 families.
Stevenson Service and Leadership Scholars meet award-winning National Geographic photographer Paul Nicklen.
| VENTURES/SUMMER 20186
WANT MORE? Check out gomustangsports.com and find videos, photographs, stats, schedules, interviews, and much more. To stay up-to-date, bookmark the site and visit it frequently.
NEWSB R I E F S
Mustang Club Launched to Support Athletics
Since the launch of its official athlet-
ics program in 1994, Stevenson Uni-
versity has been dedicated to recruit-
ing talented student-athletes who
are committed to excellence both on
and off the field.
Members of the Mustang Club
will be able to help support our
student-athletes and allow the uni-
versity to remain competitive in the
Mid Atlantic Conference and at the
national level.
Gifts will create a positive impact
on the experience of current and
future student-athletes while assist-
ing in the creation of opportunities
where they can become champions
in the classroom, in the community,
and in competition.
Learn more about the Mustang
Club on page 31.
Mustang Champs!Saluting our teams that won conference
finals this spring.
Men’s GolfMen’s Ice Hockey
Women’s Ice HockeyMen’s Indoor Track and Field
Men’s LacrosseMen’s Outdoor Track and Field
Men’s VolleyballWomen’s Volleyball
7STEVENSON.EDU |
FIERCE ATHLETESFIERCE SUPPORT
MUSTANG CLUBMUSTANG CLUB
The Growth of EsportsAT STEVENSON UNIVERSITY
NEXT LEVEL:
BY EMILY REELY
| VENTURES/SUMMER 20188
STEVENSON.EDU | 9
In February, Stevenson opened its new student activities space on the Owings Mills campus, the Garrison Hall Student Commons. Among the features of this modern, student-friendly area is a state-of-the-art esports suite, home to Stevenson’s esports club.
Esports is a new venture for the university—but
it’s a popular one. In esports, short for “electronic
sports,” individuals and teams play a schedule of
video game matches and competitions. Although
the global presence of professional esports really
only began to surge in the 2010s, today it has
millions of followers watching the games on a live
streaming video platform.
The events are held in arenas around the
world, oftentimes drawing more viewers than
the NBA, NHL, and MLB championship games.
Top professional players can earn hundreds of
thousands of dollars annually in endorsements
and prize earnings.
On the collegiate level, growth has been
remarkably swift. In 2014, Robert Morris
University announced its scholarship-sponsored
League of Legends team. Now, there are more
than 60 programs at U.S. universities and its
momentum isn’t slowing. For example, 22 percent
of all millennial-aged men watch esports, a
number nearly equal to those in that demographic
watching baseball or hockey. Additionally,
Newzoo—a leading provider of market information
about global games and esports—projects that
To watch a video about Stevenson esports, go to stevenson.edu/SUesports
college esports will be a $1.5 billion industry by the
year 2020.
“There is a clear desire for collegiate level esports,
and it only seems to be growing,” says Vice President
of Enrollment Management Mark Hergan. “We are
proud to offer esports as a modern, community-
building experience for both our current and
incoming students.”
BRINGING ESPORTS TO CAMPUS
“When we were approached about adding a serious
esports arena, we felt that it was another extension
of appealing to more students, especially in this area
where esports offerings are harder to come by than,
say, the West Coast,” Hergan notes. “We thought,
‘How could we use the existing space we had on the
Owings Mills campus as a tool for those interested
in this emerging and evolving sport?’”
Hergan was approached by Tyler Price (computer
information systems ’17), a graduate student in the
university’s Business and Technology Management
program, who saw a need for esports during his
undergraduate years. He served as the catalyst for
| VENTURES/SUMMER 201810
THE GROWTH OF ESPORTS
STEVENSON.EDU | 11
THE GROWTH OF ESPORTS
Tyler Price (computer information systems ’17), a graduate student in the university’s Business and Technology Management program, saw a need for esports at Stevenson during his undergraduate years. He approached the administration and served as the catalyst for getting the program off the ground.
| VENTURES/SUMMER 201812
THE GROWTH OF ESPORTS
SU
making esports a serious group on campus because while
the video games club was popular it didn’t meet the needs
of players who wanted to play more competitively, he says.
“Having esports and the esports arena here can reach
students that Stevenson may not have been reaching
otherwise,” Price explains. “I wanted to break the mold
of students not leaving their room to play video games to
making a community centered on video games where people
actually come together.”
The new Esports Suite is impressive, containing 25 custom
gaming PCs with 144hz monitors, special gaming chairs, a
wall-mounted flat-screen TV, and a projector. The players
can use the room to practice individually or within teams,
or to host gaming-related events such as viewing parties, in-
house tournaments, and more.
“When I started here a year ago, we only had a classroom
of computers to practice with,” says League of Legends
Coach and Esports Advisor Jonathon Neely. “Then we made
the move to the esports arena and it was so exciting to
watch. Out of other participating colleges on the East Coast,
we are absolutely ahead in terms of facilities—we have one
of the best esports rooms around.”
Because the sport is so new, each college manages its
program in differing ways. They can fall under the auspices
of athletic departments, student affairs, and even academic
departments; Stevenson’s esports program currently falls
under Club Sports.
As with other sports programs, recruiting the right players
is crucial. Currently, much of recruitment is by word of
mouth, but esports programs can follow a player’s rank by
watching their game stats. Beyond identifying players who
excel, the recruiting process is similar to that of traditional
college sports in establishing a coach-player relationship.
MORE THAN JUST A GAMEMouse clicks, keyboard taps, and the occasional words of
frustration fill the room three days a week for practices, with
official scrimmages falling on Wednesday evenings. The
noise levels increase as the games progress. Conversation
becomes louder. Clicks and taps become more energetic,
and people gather to watch the main competitor’s screen.
This is all part of what makes esports a team event—the
energy is dynamic.
Price, who was a co-founder of the original Stevenson
League of Legends (a multi-player game) team, sought to
build the program up by building it around that team and
then branching into other games such as Overwatch (a first-
person game). These are two of the most popular games in
esports competition and attract a diverse range of players.
“This is a community of players for people who are striving
to improve,” says Luke Zarcone, freshman psychology major
and esports player. “When I saw the esports suite on my
campus tour, I saw an environment I had never experienced.
When I entered the room I just knew Stevenson was for me.
I didn’t see this anywhere else.”
Sarah Kruse, a junior biochemistry major and esports team
player, says that being part of the program has benefited her
commuter student experience. “I’ve made friends here that
I wouldn’t have otherwise, and I’ve felt nothing but support
in the gaming community on campus.”
In addition, as with other student athletics and club
activities, the program gives students a well-rounded college
education. “Esports helps you apply the skills you are
learning in the classroom, whether it’s teamwork, computer
building, marketing, social media, and more,” Price notes.
And even if you don’t play, you’re always welcome to
watch.
“ When I saw the esports suite on my campus tour, I saw an environment I had never experienced. When I entered the room I just knew Stevenson was for me. I didn’t see this anywhere else.”
STEVENSON.EDU | 13
THE GROWTH OF ESPORTS
14 | VENTURES/SUMMER 2018
PROFESSIONAL MINORS
New Professional Minors Give Students a Major AdvantageBY SHERRY BITHELL
STEVENSON.EDU | 15
PROFESSIONAL MINORS
PROFESSIONAL VS. TRADITIONAL MINORSBoth discipline and professional minors give
students the opportunity to learn outside of
their field and tailor their education to their
own specific interests, but they differ in their
primary focus. Where traditional, discipline-
specific minors such as English, economics, or
music give a student a more in-depth education
in an academic field relevant to their major or
their personal interests, the new professional
minors focus on introducing students to in-de-
mand professions and industries when coupled
with their major, provide them with additional
career options after graduation.
Each professional minor consists of four
courses designed to teach foundational
knowledge related to a discipline or industry. The
courses will be supplemented by programming
hosted by the Office of Career Services.
“This new, career-centered credential is
another example of how Stevenson helps its
students stand out in a competitive job market,”
says Bridget Brennan, Ph.D., Assistant Vice
President of Academic Affairs. “Adding a solid
knowledge base and workforce experience in
one of these industries to the skills and career
preparation they gain in their major will give
students the versatile skills employers want and
open up new career paths for them.”
The professional minors will officially
launch in fall 2018 but the program is being
embraced by faculty in different programs
across campus. Students have already begun
declaring professional minors, and Student
Success Coaches, Academic Advisors, and
Career Services staff are positioned to help
students decide whether they might benefit
from declaring a professional minor.
Stevenson has always looked for ways to provide its students with a competitive
edge in their career paths, and now, the university has introduced five professional
minors specifically created to do so. These new minors—Applied Management,
Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development, Human Resources, Real
Estate, and Software Design and Coding—were conceived to expand students’
career options and offer an opportunity to shape their education to meet their
specific career goals.
STEVENSON HELPS
ITS STUDENTS
STAND OUT IN A
COMPETITIVE
JOB MARKET
| VENTURES/SUMMER 201816
PROFESSIONAL MINORS
HOW: Provides a foundation in busi-
ness management through the study
of management fundamentals, em-
ployee relations, and organizational
leadership.
WHY: “An Applied Management pro-
fessional minor pairs well with any
School of the Sciences major,” says
Meredith Durmowicz, Dean of the
Fine School of the Sciences. “For in-
stance, a science major who pursues
an advanced degree in a medical field
would use skills from an Applied
Management professional minor in
setting up and managing their own
medical practice. An Applied Man-
agement professional minor can also
help science majors who intend to
pursue a career in industry by giving
them a strong foundation for leader-
ship and management positions.”
APPLIED MANAGEMENT
MORE ABOUT THE MINORS: DESCRIPTIONS
AND SAMPLE OUTCOMES
OF PAIRING A MAJOR WITH
ONE OF THE NEW MINORS
HOW: Prepares students to understand
the skills and commitment required to
start a new venture or build a small busi-
ness; to organize and write a complete busi-
ness plan that can be used to start a new
business and apply for venture capital; and
to set appropriate marketing objectives for
small business growth.
WHY: “As a graphic designer, I will likely
experience freelancing at some point in my
career, and might even choose to begin my
own photography/freelance design career
one day,” says Hailey Guit, Graphic Design
’20. “This minor offered me a chance to
learn about how to manage and be success-
ful in any business endeavors.”
ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
SU
STEVENSON.EDU | 17
PROFESSIONAL MINORS
A CONNECTION TO CAREERSue Gordon, Vice President of Career Services, is quick to note that
the professional minors aren’t just about classes—they’re suffused
with career experiences.
“There are three elements to the career-related aspect of the
professional minors,” she says. “There will be sponsored internships
developed specifically for the minor. For example, a real estate minor
will have an internship at an agency. There also will be panels with
professionals who are working in the industry related to the minor.
And finally, with employer site visits, students would travel to a
business to learn about the industry, how the company recruits, and
what skills truly apply to that field.”
The panels will begin this fall, she says,
with internships and site visits beginning
in fall 2019.
Gordon also notes that she would
embrace the opportunity to partner with
Stevenson alumni working in any of the
fields related to the new professional
minors on sponsored internships and
panels.
Overall, the new professional minors are
yet another example of Stevenson’s goal of
connecting students to careers both in and
out of the classroom.
“The professional minors allow students
to customize their experience at Stevenson
to reflect their unique skills, interests, and
career goals. They also provide students
with additional possibilities in response to
the important question, ‘What do I want
to do when I graduate?’ ” Brennan says.
HOW: Provides a foundation for ca-
reers in the human resources indus-
try through the study of workforce
development, compensation and
planning, and employee relations.
WHY: Jeffrey D. Elliott, Ph.D., Profes-
sor of Psychology and Department
Chair, says “A minor in Human Re-
sources may be attractive to Psychol-
ogy majors who want to apply their
skills in a workplace or business set-
ting rather than in a clinical or re-
search setting. The minor can help to
make them competitive for an entry-
level position in HR, where they might
focus on recruitment and training of
employees or on employee relations.”
HUMAN RESOURCES
HOW: Provides instruction in the ba-
sics of the commercial real estate in-
dustry and offers core skills for entry-
level work in the fields of commercial
real estate and development.
WHY: “There are many job oppor-
tunities for paralegals and lawyers
in the real estate field,” says Hilary
Michaud, Chair and Professor of Law
and Justice Studies. “While they could
work for law firms, they could also
work for title companies, real estate
brokerage firms, estate-specific types
of employers, and more.”
REAL ESTATE
HOW: Provides a foundation in information
systems to prepare students to perform indus-
try-specific IT tasks in the workplace through
the study of programming and technology in-
frastructures.
WHY: Laura Smith, Chair and Associate Pro-
fessor of English Language and Literature says,
“Tech companies need people with those clas-
sic English skills in storytelling, communica-
tion, and complex thinking. At the same time,
English majors who want writing careers will
be increasingly writing in digital spaces. They
need to graduate with the ability to understand
and navigate digital platforms, including cod-
ing, information architecture, and design.”
SOFTWARE DESIGN AND CODING
GARRISON HALL NORTH ENTRANCE NEW QUAD
ESPORTS SUITE
STUDENT LOUNGE
GAMING ROOM
CLAIRE E. MOORE STUDENT ACTIVITIES
ROOM
MUSTANG ROOM
ESPORTS SUITE
Home to the university’s esports team, this room has numerous consoles and a large television where players can watch live-streaming matches. Learn more about esports on page 8.
STUDENT LOUNGE
Upon entering the Garrison Hall Student Commons, you’ll find the Student Lounge, a casual area for students to relax and chat.
GAMING ROOM
This room offers all students a place to play! With 10 consoles and numerous video games available on loan, the new Gaming Room is a popular spot.
CLAIRE E. MOORE STUDENT ACTIVITIES ROOM
The Claire E. Moore Student Activities Room, named for Stevenson’s longtime Vice President of Student Activities (see page 28), provides a flexible space for formal and informal meetings.
| VENTURES/SUMMER 201818
GARRISON HALL STUDENT COMMONS
ESPORTS SUITE
COMMONS MEETING ROOM
COMMONS MEETING ROOM
COMMONS FITNESS CENTEROPEN
LOUNGE
Garrison Hall Student Commons
COMMONS FITNESS CENTER
Offering stairmasters, elliptical machines, and weightlifting equipment, this fitness center is now one of three on the Owings Mills campus available to students, faculty, and staff.
COMMONS MEETING ROOMS
In addition to the Claire E. Moore Room, two meeting rooms offer venues for members of student clubs and other organizations to gather.
OPEN LOUNGE
The lounge provides more space for students to meet and study.
STEVENSON.EDU | 19
GARRISON HALL STUDENT COMMONS
ADVANCING THE MISSION
| VENTURES/SUMMER 201820
Alumni@WorkIn The Company of AlumniAs our alumni move through their careers,
many choose to establish businesses of
their own. These entrepreneurs seek em-
ployees who can help them to grow and
achieve success, and some have recognized
that the best resource is in their own back-
yard: Stevenson graduates.
Classmates and visual communication
design graduates Bryna Stello Colley ’06
and Rebecca Smith Biello ’06 founded
2fold Collective in 2012. Their company’s
mission is to help clients love their brand,
and their team treats each project as an op-
portunity to make that brand a little more
amazing. To help accomplish that goal,
Colley and Biello brought two SU alumni—
also visual communication design majors—
onto their team: Alyson Cockrell ’14 and
Alex Neric Pak ’15.
When asked why she looks toward Ste-
venson graduates, Colley explains, “We
have a great relationship with Stevenson
and meet many students at portfolio reviews
and networking events. We like to support
Stevenson—and the students—however we
can. In addition to being great designers,
Stevenson students have a well-rounded
liberal arts education. Being a designer isn’t
just about making something ‘look pretty,’
it’s about communicating effectively and
thinking about your work from a business
perspective, not just a creative perspec-
tive. An education at Stevenson prepares
students to approach design in this way.”
STEVENSON.EDU/GIVING | 21
From Student to Employee Networking, applications, interviews—re-
member how intimidating it can be? Be-
fore our students step into the professional
world, they must be prepared to successfully
navigate these crucial steps that lead to em-
ployment or even internships. Many of our
graduates can attest to the important role
of the Office of Career Services in helping
with these skills and offering opportunities
to connect with employers.
Did you know that alumni also have access
to these services?
More Than a Business Investment“ Through my relationship with clubs like ENACTUS and our partnership with the Career Center, I have been able to connect with Stevenson students and hire them into our company. At Enterprise, we believe in giving back to the organizations that support us, and one way we can do that is with the scholarship grant.”
– Elizabeth Hardesty, Enterprise Holdings
Stevenson has built strong relationships with a variety of local businesses: vendors who have provided
crucial services over many years, companies that offer student internships and employ our graduates,
and others who recognize the benefits of collaboration. Many of these businesses have taken the next
step and become members of Stevenson Partners, providing vital tuition support to our students.
Nearly 30 corporate members contributed $85,000 in scholarship awards for the 2017-2018 academic
year. This generosity in turn benefits those companies because Stevenson Partner members employ
more than 200 SU graduates, helping students to succeed who may one day be part of their team.
8,500+ 226 EMPLOYERS CAME ON CAMPUS FOR NETWORKING/RECRUITING EVENTS
IN 2016-2017:
JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS WERE ADVERTISED
In February, Stevenson’s communication club, '47 House, hosted their 2nd annual BizMix event, a career networking night with a professional panel and Q&A session. Panel participants included Marianne Martino (Gaga Marketing), Amy Nelson (Biohabitats), Jessica Kartalija (CBS Baltimore), Emma Ragon ’16 (Whiting-Turner), Kaitlin Kirkwood ’17 (Discovery Communications), Megan McSwain ’16 (Chesapeake Conservatory), Dayne Turner ’17 (W.B. Mason), and Adam Oberfeld ’94 (Entrepreneur/Freelancer).
If you would like information about how your company can partner with Stevenson, contact Derek
Spahr, Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations and Special Gifts, at [email protected] or
443-334-2195.
ADVANCING THE MISSION
| VENTURES/SUMMER 201822
Life as a student creates myriad memories,
many cherished and some, perhaps, filed under
“lessons learned.” We want to help you make new
memories. The Office of Alumni Relations strives
to make the alumni experience more meaningful
by creating satisfying opportunities to engage with
current students and add value to their Stevenson
experience. You can make a difference from the
moment they set foot on campus to the moment
they turn the tassels on their graduation caps.
Whether assisting at a college fair, an Open House,
an Accepted Student Dinner, an Adulting seminar,
or a milestone occasion such as Commencement,
alumni have the ability to make a meaningful
impact.
One opportunity that provides the chance to
truly be hands-on is New Student Move-In Day
each August as incoming freshmen, new transfer
students, and their families face the exhilarating
but daunting task of moving into the residence
halls. Alumna Donna Kahoe ’99 is an enthusi-
astic champion of her alma mater and also serves
on the university’s Board of Trustees. She has as-
sisted at Move-In Day for the past two years and
provides these insights into the experience.
SU: What do you enjoy most about assisting with
New Student Move-In Day?
Kahoe: The excitement of both the incoming
students and their parents/family. Everyone is
excited, some are bit apprehensive, and if we can
tap into that with them it becomes infectious. So
I would say helping to calm nerves and make the
day less sad and stressful is the biggest plus for
me. I think the appreciation from the students
and their families for us doing that is a great
feeling. SU does such a terrific job in coordinating
the entire day, which is much appreciated and
somewhat unexpected. The experience makes me
very proud to be a part of the SU family.
SU: Do you have a favorite memory from Move-In
Day in 2016 or 2017?
Make a Memory, Make a Difference
Kahoe: The comments from students and parents are amazing:
“Everyone’s smiling here!”
“Wow, we don’t have to move anything?”
“This is SO organized!”
“Other schools could take a lesson from SU on how to do this!”
My best memory is Dr. Hirshman walking amongst the students
and trash bins full of stuff in the parking lot to greet the parents
and students—it was great.
SU: What compelled you to volunteer at Move-In Day a second
time?
Kahoe: It is fun! And it is also a great way to interact with the
current and incoming students.
Alumni making a memorable Move In Day: (left to right) Tonia Cristino ’08 ’10M, Morgan Somerville ’14M, Katie Decker Reilly ’10 ’12M, Susan Fisher Humphries ’70, Allison Humphries ’11, Marcia Neuburger ’05, Donna Kahoe ’99.
Would you like to make a difference? Contact Allison
Humphries ’11, Director of Annual Giving and Alumni
Relations, at [email protected] or 443-334-2063.
ADVANCING THE MISSION
STEVENSON.EDU/GIVING | 23
Christopher R. Vaughan was appointed as the
new Vice President for University Advancement,
bringing a well-rounded background in philan-
thropy as well as deep connections in the Greater
Baltimore community. He joined Stevenson on
Jan. 29, 2018.
“I am excited to be here at Stevenson and am
looking forward to working with our alumni,
donors, and colleagues across campus to advance
our mission. The Stevenson community feels like
a family, and it is a privilege and pleasure to be
here,” says Vaughan.
A native of Baltimore, Vaughan served as
the Division Director for Development at
Associated Catholic Charities for four years.
In this role, he oversaw major and lead gifts,
annual giving, program giving, planned giving,
grants, development events, and donor services.
During his tenure, the agency saw significant
increases in annual and program giving support,
planned gifts, donor retention, and new donor
acquisition.
Prior to joining Catholic Charities, Vaughan
served in advancement for Loyola University
Maryland, his alma mater, for 11 years. His roles
included Director of Annual Giving, Director
of Planned Giving, and Special Assistant to the
Vice President for Development and College
Relations. He began his career at Deutsche Bank
Alex. Brown, the oldest investment banking firm
in the United States, where he was an analyst in
the Margin Group, managing investment margin
accounts for several branch offices across the
country.
A graduate of Calvert Hall, Vaughan earned
both his bachelor’s degree and Master of Business
Administration from Loyola.
Christopher R. Vaughan
Stevenson Welcomes New VP for University Advancement
ADVANCING THE MISSION
| VENTURES/SUMMER 201824
“The best time to plant a tree
was 20 years ago. The second
best time is today.”
– Chinese proverb
STEVENSON.EDU/GIVING | 25
We are truly grateful for the foresight and generosity of the members of the Great Oaks Society. Like those who plant a tree
that will grow to maturity many years in the future, these individuals have chosen to make arrangements now for a gift that will
later benefit the university through their estate plans, such as the contribution of stocks or securities, or through a charitable
bequest or gift annuity. Recently, the university received three such thoughtful gifts directed to the financial and academic
support of our students for years to come. While we are saddened by the loss of these friends, it is our privilege to honor their
philanthropic spirit.
Kitty Franklin Cromwell ’75
Class of 1975 graduate Kitty Franklin
Cromwell passed away in November
2016. A long-time supporter of her
alma mater, she instructed that a
portion of her estate go toward the
Carolyn Manuszak Scholarship Fund
in Memory of Dr. T.J. Manuszak, which
provides tuition support to incoming
freshmen and new transfer students
with financial need. This bequest
was made in memory of Carolyn
Manuszak, former president of Villa
Julie College. During her time as a
student in the 1970s, Cromwell felt
close to Manuszak and Rose Daw-
son, who provided dedicated leader-
ship. She had special appreciation
for Manuszak’s open-door policy
that encouraged free communica-
tion with students. Cromwell be-
came a world traveler with visits
to Vietnam, China, and the British
Isles. This global perspective shaped
her philosophy of “working for world
peace and the awareness of all life’s
oneness.”
Elizabeth and Robert McWethy
Helping to create well-rounded edu-
cators was the goal of Elizabeth “Liz”
McWethy. As a faculty member, she
developed the Preschool Education
Department at Villa Julie College in the
1970s and prepared preschool teachers
for the new Head Start Program. For
many years, the university has recog-
nized her spirit with an annual award
to a graduating senior, the Elizabeth
McWethy Award.
In 2007, Mrs. McWethy and her hus-
band, Captain Robert McWethy, estab-
lished the Elizabeth and Robert McWethy
Visiting Scholars Fund in Education at
Stevenson University, funded through a
charitable gift annuity that provided the
McWethys with an income during their
lifetime. In addition to being an edu-
cation advocate, McWethy was a poet,
artist, and environmental activist. She
passed away in October 2014. Captain
McWethy, a commissioned officer from
the U.S. Naval Academy who enjoyed a
lifetime career in the Navy, passed away
in January 2018.
Jeanne Cohen Savage
Stevenson’s largest single gift from
an individual came from someone
with no connection to the univer-
sity; she was simply looking for a
deserving institution to receive a
substantial legacy. Jeanne Cohen
Savage lived in Pikesville for many
years before moving to Ocean City,
Md. She flew her own plane, had an
interest in art, and assisted with her
husband’s business. When she began
to investigate estate planning, an in-
terest in higher education led her to
Stevenson. She was impressed with
our career guidance and student sup-
port, which she had not received as a
college student.
In September 2017, Savage passed
away, leaving half of her estate to
Stevenson—more than $2 million.
She directed this transformational
gift to establish an endowed scholar-
ship fund, to benefit many genera-
tions to come. We are proud to hon-
or her through the Eugene and Jeanne
Savage Endowed Scholarship Fund.
If you would like information about planned giving options, contact Meghan Culbertson,
Assistant Vice President for Advancement, at [email protected] or 443-334-2227.
ADVANCING THE MISSION
| VENTURES/SUMMER 201826
In celebration of the foundation laid by Villa Julie
College that is carried on with pride as Stevenson
University, VillaFest Weekend is an important
tradition, bringing students, alumni, and fami-
lies together. Volleyball tournaments and a food
truck rally were part of the community activities,
and former soccer players showed that they still
have the Mustang spirit as alumni from the men’s
and women’s teams continued their own tradition
through friendly matches at Mustang Stadium.
VillaFest Celebrates Our Past and FutureThe heart of VillaFest is the Reunion Brunch,
held on April 29, which brings VJC and SU alumni
back to renew friendships and build new ones. Cur-
rent students also attended, comparing experiences
with alumni of campus life then and now, main-
taining the connection that brings our past and
future together under one vision. Special acknowl-
edgment was made of members of reunion classes
ending in 2, 3, 7 and 8 as well as Jubilarian Society
members from the classes of 1949-1969.
CLASS NOTES
1983Our condolences to Marlene Greenebaum on the passing of her husband, Stewart, on Dec. 10, 2017.
1985Glen Geelhaar ’85 ’02 ’07 is running for a seat on the Baltimore County Council in 2018 as a representative from the Sixth District.
1989Our condolences to Chris Engel ’89 ’91 on the passing of his father on Jan. 6, 2018.
1998Mindy Myers Hinsley serves as chair of the Professional Marketer’s Leadership Exchange, which meets regularly throughout the year and is comprised of senior-level marketing professionals from local engineering and architectural firms. She is the President of Hinsley Collective, LLC, a professional services marketing consulting and leadership training firm established in 2014.
1999After returning from Iraq and completing his 11th deployment, John Wilson recently moved to Miami, Fla., to be an instructor at the Army Trauma Training Detachment. On Jan. 1, he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army.
2003David “Dave” Crisp, CPA, was recently promoted to Principal at Weyrich, Cronin & Sorra, LLC. Dave has more than 15 years of public accounting experience and has worked extensively on audit, review, compilation, and tax engagements in various industries including real estate and construction. He also provides audit services to employee benefit plans such as 401(k), Defined Benefit, ESOP, and other plans. He joined the firm in January 2001 as an intern from Stevenson and was hired full-time in spring 2003 after graduation.
Greg Goodwin ’03 ’05M has been promoted to Chief Technology Officer at Kiddie Academy.
Abby Ferretti Jackson is the Creative Director at The Johns Hopkins Carey Business School. She writes that her first hire at Carey was a fellow SU graduate, Kelly Knapp Cumberledge ’99, who is the new Marketing Operations Manager.
2005Catherine Benson Blum and her husband, Jesse ’05, welcomed their second daughter, Aria Grace, on Jan. 13, 2017. She joins big sister Lucy Marie, who turned three years old in September.
1963Our condolences to CeCe Di Giorgio Brooks Hilte, her daughter Molly Brooks Helmstetter ’90, and grandson Christopher Clay Hilte ’08 on the passing of their husband, father, and grandfather, Larry, on May 13, 2017.
1967At the end of December 2017, Claire Mosmiller Moore ’67 ’03 retired from Stevenson University as Vice President for Student Affairs. Claire spent 35 years at VJC/SU starting in 1982 as Director of Student Activities. She served as Interim President from November 2016 until July 2017 when Elliot Hirshman joined the university.
1968Our condolences to Paula Salamone Bangs and her son, Thomas Bangs ’06, on the passing of her husband and his father, Patrick, on Oct. 16, 2017.
1971Bonnie Caslow Allan had her landscape paintings featured at Irvine Nature Center in an exhibit titled “Wandering Our World.” The exhibit ran from January through March.
1974Donna Croucher Morrison was named an outstanding community member by the Towson Chamber of Commerce at their inaugural “Toast of the Town” event in April. She was honored for her tireless work to lead the community in a positive and forward direction. Donna is the Deputy County Administrative Officer working with Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz. Our condolences to Donna on the passing of her mother on Dec. 16, 2017.
1975Catherine “Cathy” Anderson retired last July after working more than 24 years at Towson United Methodist Church as Director of Family Life and most recently as Director of Communications. At the same time, she moved from Maryland to Pennsylvania, where her son and his family now live. She plans to continue creating art while playing with grandchildren. Her studio is set up for fibers and stained glass, and she has been offered an opportunity to revisit metalsmithing and theater.
1981Linda-Lee Coles Adams and her husband, Brett, celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary in July 2017 with a trip to Old Montreal, Canada. Brett is the Director of Athletics at SU.
Blaire Aull Miller together with her husband, Brooks, and daughter, Alex, welcomed a second daughter, Reese Jillian, on June 19, 2017.
Paul Oakes married Marjorie Fitzpatrick on Nov. 4, 2017.
2007Marc Grossblatt enjoyed a trip to Norway and Denmark in August. Since graduating from SU, he has visited Greece, Italy, Russia, Estonia, Latvia, Sweden, Finland, and Costa Rica. Grossblatt plans to continue traveling and hopes to visit some countries in Latin America and Asia.
Jessie Merryman Stever and husband, Brian, welcomed their first child together, Kent David, born on Feb. 23, 2017. He joins a very excited big sister, Lucy, who is nine years old.
2008Tonia Cristino ’08 ’10M is engaged to Nick Ramsel ’13 ’14M, and the couple is planning a September wedding.
Amanda Courter ’08 ’10M is married to Graeme Millar and they have a daughter, Faith, who was born in 2017. The couple works at Stevenson. Amanda is a Senior Enrollment Counselor and Graeme is Associate Athletic Director and head men's soccer coach.
Jessie Halpern married Pete Stefaniak ’07 in 2011, and the couple has two daughters. Natalie is three-and-a-half years old and Jocelyn is eight months old.
Mickelle Gregory Johnson ’08 ’10M and her husband, Michael, welcomed a daughter, Michaela Elizabeth-Jean, born on Nov. 21, 2017.
Shantell Roberts was selected by Baltimore Magazine as one of 30 Baltimore Visionaries—change-makers who are shaping the future of Baltimore City—for developing a safe way for babies to sleep. In 2012 she established Touching Young Lives, a nonprofit focused on improving the well-being of infants and children through public education. Shantell also developed and is the founder of the Portable Alternative Crib (PAC), which is a simple cardboard box with firm padding that gives babies a comfortable and safe place to sleep beyond the family bed. For every one sold, an additional PAC will be given to a family in need.
2009In August 2017, Jen Milam started at Carroll Community College as the Director of Student Life where she oversees student clubs, orientation, leadership opportunities, programming, a food pantry, and more. She is excited to get back into the world of higher education after leaving Stevenson in 2016 for a position at a small nonprofit in Baltimore.
STEVENSON.EDU/GIVING | 27
Claire Moore Scholarship Fund Honors Dedicated Leader of StudentsImagine someone who has dedicated her career to her
alma mater, striving to create a positive, meaningful
experience for thousands of students over decades.
And imagine that person leading with enthusiasm, and
helping to transform a two-year junior college into a four-
year university. How does a community honor someone
who has made such an impact? By following her example
and focusing on students—by creating a scholarship in
her name.
In 1982, Claire Moore ’67, returned to Villa Julie
College to serve as the Director of Student Activities.
Through her leadership and collaborative spirit, she
developed the residence life program, established an
athletics program, and helped to create the Wellness
Center. After serving as Vice President of Student Affairs
for more than 10 years, in 2016, Moore was selected to
serve as Stevenson’s Interim President upon the retirement
of President Kevin J. Manning. As Stevenson’s fifth
president, she continued her unwavering commitment to
our students’ success, growth, and well-being.
When Moore announced her intention to retire in
December 2017, the Senior Class Council decided to
honor her in the most fitting way they could imagine:
by creating an opportunity to help students. The Claire Moore Scholarship Fund will provide tuition support to a
senior who has contributed to the Stevenson community.
Claire Moore ’67, ’03 is the person who made Stevenson
a home for so many students. Throughout her 35-year
career at Stevenson, she led the university with her heart
and kept her focus on its students.
Join the Class of 2018 by making a gift to honor Claire Moore and be part of honoring her legacy.
CLASS NOTES
2010Elizabeth Brooks is the Assistant Director of Financial Aid at The Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University.
Laura Smith Schenk ’10 ’15M is working as the Academic Progression Coordinator of Nursing at Harford Community College and Cecil College. Last November she attended the Organization for Associate Degree Nursing Annual Convention in Arizona and received the first place poster award for her entry entitled “Cecil-Harford Academic Progression in Nursing Initiative.”
2011Kayla Eckert is working as an associate veterinarian at the Pulaski Veterinary Clinic in Baltimore, Md. She received the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2016.
Katherine “Katie” Hoffman and Pat Mueller welcomed the arrival of daughter Aubrey Elizabeth Mueller on May 29, 2017.
Allison Humphries is engaged to Donald Cuneo, and the couple is planning a wedding on Dec. 1, 2018.
Brittany Kaier Meyers is a senior compliance analyst at ACell, Inc., a leading regenerative medicine company that develops and manufactures products designed to facilitate the body’s ability to repair and remodel tissue.
2012Courtney Burkett is a desktop support specialist in the IT Department at the University of Maryland Baltimore County.
Brandi Powers Downing ’12 ’13M was nominated for the UnitedHealth Group company-wide Superhero Award, which recognizes employees who provide exceptional customer service and contribute to company growth by delivering quality service and demonstrating cultural values while serving customers.
Nick Farano was among seven American citizens invited by Hands Along the Nile Development Services to take part in the Professional Fellow Program Outbound Exchange which took place in Egypt from Feb. 10-21. This is a professional development exchange program funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. The program seeks to foster professional partnerships between American experts and Egyptian colleagues and to contribute to intercultural understanding. The theme of the program was the empowerment of women and persons with disabilities. Nick is the Public Relations and Fundraising Manager for the Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington. He recently completed a M.B.A. in project management from Capella University.
Renae Hunter and Brian Diller were married on Sept. 30, 2017. The ceremony and reception were held at the Columbus Center in Baltimore.
Bobby Jackson ’12 ’14M ’16M returned to SU last summer for training in Project Lead the Way (PLTW) curriculum. This training prepares high school educators to use hands-on, inquiry-based learning techniques to instruct PLTW students. Bobby teaches science at Glen Burnie High School.
Stephannie Krulevitz ’12M is an Assistant State Prosecutor in Maryland. She received the J.D. degree in 2015 from the University of Baltimore School of Law and clerked for the Honorable Julie L. Glass of the Circuit Court for Baltimore County following law school. She is admitted to practice before state and federal courts including Maryland, the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, and the United States District Court for the District of Maryland.
Grant Simard and Kellie Forsyth ’13 are living in Virginia where Grant works as a contracts administrator at Agile Defense and Kellie works in IT at the Department of State. They both travel to a lot of work-related conferences and meetings and enjoy seeing new places in the U.S. and around the world.
Trisha Tucci is working as a Financial Aid Advisor at Towson University.
Congratulations to Kayla Wilson who graduated from the Michigan State School of Law in May. While in school she worked at Legal Aid in Michigan and also spent a semester in a Michigan State clinic teaching high school journalism students about the First Amendment.
2013Janel Frazier ’13, Zac Stavish ’13, Melissa Pinkney ’15, and Lauren Speiser ’15 presented at the AACTE (American Association for the Council of Teacher Accreditation) national conference held in March in Baltimore. They were joined by School of Education faculty member Beth Kobett. The title of the presentation was “A University-Led Induction: Using a Strengths-Based Inquiry Approach to Support Beginning Mathematics Teachers’ Success.”
Nick Hoban and Katie Evans ’14 are engaged and the couple is planning a September wedding.
Brian Lewis ’13 ’13M graduated from Mitchell Hamline School of Law in January 2017. He took the Minnesota Bar Exam in February, passed, and was admitted to the Minnesota Bar in May 2017. He is currently an associate at Francis White Law in Woodbury, Minn., where he handles VA claims appeals and military law matters nationwide as well as Social Security issues.
Rachel Mullett and Justin Hedrick ’15 were married on Sept. 2, 2017, at the Alumni Memorial Chapel at Loyola University Maryland. The reception was held at Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City, Md. Members of the wedding party included SU alumni Kristy
Watts Willingham ’12, Katie Stuck Winfield ’12, Brandon Bayer ’15, Frankie Reynolds ’15, and Corey Wassum ’16.
Ashley Nelson-Raut has joined the wealth preservation group practice at Pessin Katz Law P.A. Her practice focuses on advising clients in the areas of estate planning, elder care, estate and trust administration, and income taxation of trusts and estates.
Kelsie Rites, along with Kyle Pottieger ’16, Katie Madigan ’17, and Emily Ostrander ’17 from the School of Education’s Beginning Teacher Community, hosted a Job Interview Preparation Discussion for School of Education seniors on March 8, 2018.
Brandon Smith ’13 ’14M and Ciara Faupel ’16 were married on July 21, 2017.
Megan Smith and Jason Scroggins ’13 were married in May 2017, and the couple welcomed their first child, Lena, born on Feb. 11, 2018.
2014Jaiana Boskett is engaged to marry Shalise Harris, and a wedding is being planned for 2019.
Nicolas “Nico” Garcia ’14 ’16M began working with Solar City/Tesla in June 2016 and was promoted to Bilingual Field Energy Consultant in February 2017.
Michael MacFee ’14 ’17M has joined the Stevenson Department of Business Communication as an adjunct professor teaching Introduction to Public Speaking and Business and Professional Communication. He also works as a Communications Associate at Maryland Public Television.
Marissa Meiklejohn and Brooks Miller ’14 are engaged, and the couple is planning a June 2019 wedding.
Taylor Mongold and Justin Dudley ’14 are engaged, and the couple is planning an April 2018 wedding. Taylor is a school counselor with Baltimore County Public Schools, and Justin is an ICU nurse at University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center in Towson.
After dating for five years, Chelsea Moog and Heath Johnson ’13 were married on June 16, 2017. The ceremony and reception took place at Belmont Manor in Elkridge, Md. The couple honeymooned in Thailand.
Samantha Perillo ’14 ’17M is a Digital Marketing Specialist at Medifast and is the assistant coach for the Stevenson women’s volleyball team. During her student years at SU, she was a premier volleyball player for the Mustangs.
Amanda “Mandi” Sheroke ’14 ’15M is continuing to pursue her dream of becoming a medical examiner. She will be attending Liberty University in Lynchburg, Va., this fall to begin studies for the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree.
STEVENSON.EDU/GIVING | 29
CLASS NOTES
2015Sergut Admasu ’15 ’17M is working as a Research Administrative Coordinator at the University of Maryland Medical Center Midtown Campus.
Jenifer “Jen” Antonelli ’15 is working for The Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults as their 4K for Cancer Program Coordinator, Events and Recruitment. She will focus on organizing events for the runs and rides, and recruiting college students to participate in the cross-country events. Jen spent the summer of 2017 running across the United States with a group of volunteers to help raise money and awareness for the Ulman Cancer Fund.
Marissa Sue Cote is the Center Director at Huntington Learning Center in Eldersburg, Md.
Bradley “Brad” Garfield started a new position as a Sales Development Associate at T. Rowe Price. He is completing work on a M.B.A. at Loyola University.
Thomas “TJ” Janasek is working as a teacher in the Howard County Public School System.
Janice Laforteza spent the summer before graduation as a Quality Systems Intern at the Living Legacy Foundation and was hired full time as a Donor Services Coordinator. The Living Legacy Foundation is the organ and tissue procurement organization for the State of Maryland.
Frank Reynolds is working as a copywriter at Compulse Integrated Marketing, which provides digital marketing services to help businesses keep growing.
Michael Talley is working as a pretrial investigator at the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services.
Benjamin “Ben” Trently and Sabrina Robbins ’16 were married on March 26 at The Cloisters.
Ben is the Assistant Director of Development for the Annual Fund at the Maryland Science Center and Sabrina is a paralegal at Royston, Mueller, McLean and Reid in Towson.
Dan Waters and Courtney Dreisch ’15 were married on Nov. 3, 2017, in Mt. Airy, Md. Four SU alumni were members of the bridal party: Abbie Wright ’11, Jessica Downs ’14, Corey Vincent ’15, and Mercedes Acevedo ’15. Dan and Courtney live in New Market, Md., and are both pursuing master’s degrees at UMUC and Hood College, respectively.
2016Henry Adjah-Provencal is working as a Debit Card Resolution Specialist at Navy Federal Credit Union in Vienna, Va.
Megan Donahue is working as an Office Solutions Associate with Brown Advisory in Baltimore.
Ryan Drazenovic ’16 ’17M is an Assistant Toxicologist in the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Maryland. Since graduation, he also has been teaching general chemistry lab at SU and will continue to teach in the evenings.
Brendan Dreitlein started a new full time job in March as a second assistant professional at the Greenspring Valley Hunt Club, where he will be giving golf lessons, managing the outside golf staff, running golf tournaments, and managing the day to day golf shop operations. He will be working toward his class A PGA certification. Brendan says that the opportunity presented itself for him to pursue his passion, and he gets the chance to play golf as well. He also works part-time as a marketing associate at Crown Trophy in Owings Mills.
Kimoya Henry is working as a paralegal at Summerfield, Willen, Silverberg & Limsky in Pikesville, Md. She is continuing her studies at
Stevenson and anticipates receiving a master’s degree in forensic investigations this year.
Heather Hughes ’16M is pursuing an Adult/Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner/Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree at the University of Maryland. She has been a registered nurse for 13 years and credits her experience at SU with helping to ignite her passion to keep moving forward with her education. Hughes hopes to one day teach in a nurse practitioner program.
Chris McKneely designed the new logo for Roberto Clemente Middle School. His first design for the Montgomery County, Md., school is featured on the school’s website and emblazoned in the gymnasium.
Malik Naanaa ’16 ’17M started work in May 2017 as an Analytical Chemist working for the Delaware Division of Forensic Science. In addition to a training period, he had to complete 10 proficiency cases, an oral exam, and a mock trial before beginning actual casework in October.
Emily Rosenthal has started a job with the Catholic Review as a staff writer. One of her recent articles combines her Catholic heritage with her love of Carroll County. Emily is excited about the job, where she will be able to combine her reporting, writing, and editorial skills.
Dzov Singman was accepted to the M.D./Ph.D. program at the SUNY Downstate College of Medicine and began her studies there last August.
2017Courtney Aceto is headed to Johns Hopkins University in September where she will be studying for a master’s degree in biotechnology with a concentration in biodefense and infectious diseases. She will be enrolled in a part-time graduate program geared toward working individuals, and she hopes this advanced degree will allow her to expand her future career opportunities and may lead to an M.D./Ph.D. program down the road.
Kristen Brooks and David Moler ’15 are engaged to be married in April 2019.
Michael “Mike” Byrd completed his capstone internship at Northwestern Mutual, a financial planning company. He accepted a job offer at Enterprise Holdings and is preparing to pursue a master’s degree.
Bryan Corvera-Flores is a Sales Assistant with the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs, a professional minor league baseball team that plays in the Freedom Division of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball.
Tiffany DaCosta is working as a help desk assistant at the Maryland Department of Budget and Management in Baltimore.
Class of 2015 graduates Courtney Dreisch and Dan Waters celebrated their marriage with several fellow alumni.
| VENTURES/SUMMER 201830
The MUSTANG CLUB—an initiative to support our student-athletes—launches this summer. Keep an eye out for the opportunity to join alumni, families, students, faculty, staff and friends of Stevenson University who BLEED GREEN.Become part of a team that understands the importance of offering an exceptional SU experience—and strengthening our standing—
MUSTANG CLUBMUSTANG CLUB
To learn more, contact [email protected] make your gift now, visit Stevenson.edu/GivetoSU.
JOIN THE CLUBDO YOU BLEED GREEN?
FIERCE ATHLETESFIERCE SUPPORT
by supporting the university’s intercollegiate athletics program. By raising funds through membership and special events, the Mustang Club helps to make this possible. Membership also carries special benefits such as SU branded merchandise, tickets to Mustang athletic events, naming opportunities, and VIP access. By providing this support, we abide by NCAA, athletic conference, and university regulations.
CLASS NOTES
Alumni, we want to hear what you’ve been doing!Please send us your news and photos on personal and professional achievements, marriage, family, travel, and memories of your time at VJC/SU. Submit your news and photos via mail to Alumni Notes, Stevenson University, Attn: Carolyn Douglas, 1525 Greenspring Valley Rd., Stevenson, MD 21153-0641; via e-mail to [email protected]; or submit them online at stevenson.edu/ventures.
Emily Dinsmore ’17M is an assistant field hockey coach at Appalachian State University in North Carolina. She served two seasons as a graduate assistant field hockey coach at SU working primarily with goalkeepers and defenders, and also worked in recruiting and as an academic mentor.
Congratulations to Melissa Fisher and Andrew Zink on receiving the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) National Student Honor Award. This is awarded to students who have at least a 3.3 GPA on a 4.0 scale, demonstrate exemplary leadership and community service participation, are a student member of ASCP, and are completing their final year of an accredited MLS program. Melissa and Andrew were two of only 78 total recipients nationwide to receive this prestigious honor.
Kaitlin Kirkwood is working as a Discovery Communications Intern Program Coordinator. As an intern with Discovery Communications in 2017, she worked in event scheduling and impressed her co-workers with her energy and organization, so it was a smooth transition to this new position.
Ariana Merrifield is currently teaching in Thailand, and she took part in a live FaceTime conversation with SU students on the methods of teaching social studies. Ariana says that it had always been a dream to teach abroad after graduation, and she started doing research in her senior year. She found a program called CIEE Teach Abroad, and she chose Thailand.
Since she knew a few people who taught there and loved it, she decided to give it a go and has never looked back.
Adraine Mewborn ’17M is a registered nurse/diabetes educator at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore.
Shawn Rollins is a registered nurse working at Upper Chesapeake Medical Center. He and his wife, Rene, have two sons, Joshua and Caleb, and the family resides in Bel Air.
Stephanie Schwarz is engaged to Christopher Taylor, Jr., and the couple is expecting their first child in August.
Emily Shannon is working at Rymax Marketing Services providing general office support.
Fred Terry is working as a technical recruiter in contract engineering with Aerotek Systems. His strong interpersonal and public speaking skills led him to success with Aerotek, a top global and staffing agency.
In MemoriamMary Bess Fahy Call ’61 on Nov. 4, 2016
Tracey Burgess Cunningham ’82 on April 4, 2017
Jessica Anne Forbes ’13 on Aug. 18, 2017
Mary Frances Hock Fry ’81 on Oct. 28, 2017
Catherine Guttenberger Gabriel ’62 on Nov. 25, 2017
Ann Carole Stevenson Haddaway ’58 on Jan. 8, 2018
Anne Irby ’82 on Dec. 18, 2017
Kaitlin Noelle Tennison ’09 on Oct. 22, 2016
During the month of February, love was in the air—or on the web—as we launched #MustangLove on SU social media. We received stories from 26 alumni couples about how VJC/SU brought them together. It was an opportunity to share news on marriage, children, and other life events, some of which can be found in the Class Notes of this issue.
#StevensonSiblings was featured on National Sibling Day, April 10, where we invited alumni siblings to share photos and tell us why they both—or all—chose VJC/SU.
Watch for these upcoming opportunities to share your stories of SU family.
#FutureMustangs In September, we invite alumni to share photos of their babies.
#LegacyFamilies In November, alumni can share photos of themselves and their parents who also attended VJC/SU.
We Are Family
| VENTURES/SUMMER 201832
Continue your journey at a place you call home.
Alumni areeligible to receive a
$250 scholarshipupon enrolling in an SU
master’s program inFall 2018.*
• Career-focused programs that provide specialized skillsfor growing industries.
• Convenient sessions for working professionals.• Personalized attention in a supportive community.
In order to qualify you must be a new online student,accepted and enrolled for Fall 2018.
Visit stevenson.edu/alum250 or call1-877-531-7118 for more information or to apply.
*
As an alum, you know the valueof a Stevenson education.By pursuing your master’s with Stevenson University Online, you will have access to:
Master’s Degree Programs
Business and Technology ManagementCommunication StudiesCommunity-Based Education and LeadershipCrime Scene InvestigationCyber ForensicsDigital ForensicsForensic AccountingForensic InvestigationForensic ScienceForensic StudiesHealthcare ManagementMaster of Arts in Teaching: Math and Science with a STEM FocusNursing with concentrations in Nursing Education, Nursing Leadership/Management, and Population-Based Care Coordination
1525 Greenspring Valley Road Stevenson, Maryland 21153-0641
stevenson.edu
Are YOU counted this fiscal year?Time is running out to make your annual gift.
You may also choose to support important initiatives like those featured in these pages:
Claire E. Moore Scholarship FundMission: I’m HomeMustang Club
Your contribution enriches the experience of our students and creates grateful future alumni.
Make your gift today and be counted!Visit our secure online site at Stevenson.edu/GivetoSU or complete and return the enclosed envelope.