Janet Kacskos

Remembrance and Reflection: Ville’s 40th Holocaust Conference Millersville’s University’s 40th Holocaust Conference will be held in April. This year’s theme is The Children of Survivors of the Holocaust and Genocide: Remembrance and Reflection, and will feature Yossi Klein Halevi, a prominent author, journalist, and son of a Holocaust survivor as the speaker for the Alan and Linda Loss Keynote Lecture on April 1. Halevi’s talk, “The Commitments of the Son of a Survivor: How the Holocaust Has Shaped My Moral, Political and Spiritual Commitments,” will be held at the Winter Visual Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, April 1, at 7 p.m. and is free to attend. This year’s conference takes a deeper dive into the question of how children of survivors, a unique type of witness, perceive their role and responsibility of preserving true testimony about the destruction of the Jewish people while processing the trauma experienced by their families. Dean of the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, Dr. Ieva Zake says, “Klein Halevi’s perspective is an incredibly valuable source for a better understanding of how the shadow of the atrocity of the Holocaust continues to have a lasting impact on the Jewish experience worldwide.” A screening of the movie “Kaddish” which is based on the story of Yossi Klein Halevi and his father, Zoltan, will be held at the Ware Center in downtown Lancaster on April 22 at 7 p.m., with a preceding panel discussion beginning at 6:15 p.m. featuring Dr. Jack Fischel, Dr. Victoria Khiterer, Rabbi Jack Paskoff, Dr. Jeff Mufson, and MU student Julia Fallows, and a post-screening Q&A with the film’s director, Steven Brand. You can request complimentary tickets to view the documentary at artsmu.com or by calling 717-871-7600. Assistant Director of Campus and Community Engagement of the MU Office of Visual & Performing Arts and co-chair of the conference, Barry Kornhauser, states that this event is crucial to preserving the history of the Holocaust. “There are now only 245,000 Jewish survivors of the Holocaust still alive, and that number is reducing rapidly with the median age of survivors being 86,” he shares. “The memory of this tragedy is now largely a second-hand one, passed down to the descendants of these survivors, 2nd and 3rd generations entrusted to help keep their stories alive so that those stories and their lessons are not lost to future generations.” Dr. Victoria Khiterer, a history professor and co-chair for the conference, adds “The children and grandchildren of Holocaust survivors often more openly talk about the horrible experiences of their parents and grandparents during the Holocaust than the survivors themselves. Holocaust survivors were deeply traumatized by their experience and, for many of them, it took a long time to recover enough to be able to speak about it. It was especially difficult for Holocaust survivors to tell their stories, because society was not prepared to listen to them during the war and in the first post-war years.” More information is available on the Conference on the Holo […] “Remembrance and Reflection: Ville’s 40th Holocaust Conference”

Supporting the Farm in the Classroom Millersville University recently received a $7,500 grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture for the second year to support the Farm in the Classroom competition.  For the competition this year, teams of middle and high school students and their teachers will be challenged to submit designs for a hydroponics or aquaponics system. Hydroponics is a soil-less gardening method that supports the growth of plants through nutrient-rich water. Aquaponics extends the hydroponics concept by using living fish and their waste to provide mineral nutrition for the plants, thereby omitting the need for synthetic fertilizers. An added benefit of aquaponics is the addition of fish as one of the harvestable products in addition to the plant produce. The winning teams in each category will receive up to $2,000 to build their system.  The elementary school-age division will task student teams and their teachers to identify factors that affect plant and fish life, explore how their food is produced in sustainable ways, develop an appreciation for the community significance of agriculture, and use creativity to create ways for aquaponics to promote community involvement. The winning team will receive an aquaponics system valued at $3,000 from competition partner INTAG Aquaponics.   The grant is a collaboration between the technology & engineering education program in the applied engineering, safety & technology department, and the plant sciences program in the biology department. “This project encourages young people’s curiosity and interest in two forms of sustainable agriculture – hydroponics and aquaponics, both of which have the potential for higher yields year-round and per acre than traditional, soil-based agriculture,” says Dr. Sharon Brusic, Emeritus Professor of the Applied Engineering, Safety & Technology department. “By giving them an incentive to explore these areas using hands-on and experiential learning, there is a greater chance that they will remember the experience and potentially pursue these areas of research and development in the future.”  Dr. Christopher Hardy, professor of plant sciences in biology, explains that teams of Millersville University students will comprise part of the judging panel that will review the proposals. “In February 2026, during a celebratory event for the winners, our students will host the winning teams on a tour of Millersville’s research and teaching facilities”. Brusic says, “This project provides some Millersville students with valuable professional development opportunities to support K-12 students’ efforts to become more well-informed about sustainable agricult […] “Supporting the Farm in the Classroom”

Legally Blonde Hits MU’s Stage Get ready to bend and snap – “Legally Blonde: The Musical” is coming to Millersville University’s stage. Join ACMO, MU’s student-run theatre organization, to unleash your inner Elle Woods for a show all about brains, beauty and self-discovery on March 20-23, 2025.    Performances will take place at the Winter Visual & Performing Arts Center on campus.    Katherine Thorpe, show director, choreographer and scenic designer, shares what inspired ACMO to produce “Legally Blonde” this spring. For the past three years, ACMO has prioritized shows with male leads. “The final decision always comes down to ACMO’s vote, where members narrow down the top choice,” Thorpe says. “Coming off a show like ‘Big Fish,’ which had heavy subject matter, we wanted to change the vibe and bring something fresh and energetic for the spring season. ‘Legally Blonde’ was a show many of us had wanted to do for years, and this was the perfect time.”     Everyone involved in the show dedicates over 18 hours each week to rehearsing the show. “This show is filled with insanely passionate people—from the creative team to the crew to the cast. We strive to create meaningful, high-quality productions, even though we are a student club,” shares Thorpe.     Behind the scenes, there is a team helping Thorpe put this production together:    Katherine Sadowsky – Production Manager   Kat Thorpe – Director/Choreographer/Scenic Designer   Madison Reisinger – Stage Manager   Anastasia Tolmachewich – Music Director   Anna Jessel – Assistant Director   Patrick Rock – Technical Director   Austin Barrick – Lighting Designer   Gabe Wolford – Sound Designer   Kyleigh Black – Properties Designer   Rachel McFadden – Lead Carpenter & Head Electrician   Isabela Scordo – Lead Painter   With a 26-person cast, “Legally Blonde” is the largest ACMO production in the past four years. Thorpe has faced challenges such as large, choreographed numbers and limited rehearsal space, but she feels rewarded watching everything come together to the finished product.    “Nothing beats the moment of your first run-through or finally loading in the set and watching the actors connect deeply with their characters. It’s incredible how fast everything clicks into place, and suddenly, you see your vision come to life,” Thorpe shares. “It’s not always easy to tell one unified story through a production, but with this team, it feels effortless.”    “This show is packed with energy, incredible vocals, and a fresh take on the beloved movie. But don’t expect just a repeat of any other version of ‘Legally Blonde’ you’ve seen before! With our uniquely talented actors, creative set, and dynamic choreography, ACMO is bringing a fresh yet nostalgic feel to this iconic show,” Thorpe concludes.  Student and senior tickets are priced at $5. All other tickets will be $15.     Tickets are now available for “Legally Blonde”: https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/23659/.   Follow ACMO to keep up with future s […] “Legally Blonde Hits MU’s Stage”

'Ville's Dr. Moyer Selected for LEAD Program Dr. Susan Moyer, associate professor in the Wehrheim School of Nursing at Millersville University, has been selected for the National League for Nursing 2025 LEAD program. It’s a year-long initiative of the NLN Leadership Institute. Moyer was selected for the program because she “demonstrated exceptional leadership in nursing education, research and clinical practice.” Moyer is a full-time faculty member in the Wehrheim School of Nursing at Millersville University and has taught here since 2019. As well as being a Registered Nurse and Certified Nurse Educator, Moyer is the Chair of the nursing department’s Outcomes and Assessment committee. Moyer is thankful to be selected for the LEAD program, “It affords me the opportunity to learn about leadership perspectives from different experts and it provides time to reflect on my leadership strengths and challenges,” says Moyer. LEAD, founded in 2011, is designed for nurses in education and practice who have recently been challenged with rapid transition into leadership positions, those already in positions of leadership who want formal leadership development, and others who identify as emerging leaders or have leadership aspirations. The 2025 NLN LEAD group consists of 22 nurse educators chosen from colleges, universities, and healthcare institutions. This yearlong program represents a significant investment in professional leadership development with participants spending a calendar year engaged in activities identifying personal and professional goals, learning about what makes an effective leader, and strategizing how to retool skill sets and experiences to achieve individual and institutional benchmarks. To that end, everyone receives intensive one-on-one executive coaching, in addition to attending virtual group coaching sessions, a retreat, and leadership webinars, where they study leadership theory and development that includes case studies. LEAD participants attended an orientation session in February in Washington, D.C. The Intensive Leadership Retreat is currently scheduled for June 22-25 at League headquarters, also in Washington, D.C. Additionally, the group will reconvene at the 2025 NLN Education Summit with the theme of The Challenge: Unraveling the Mysteries of AI, on September 17-19 in Orlando, Florida. “The National League for Nursing LEAD program is one of the most highly respected leadership development initiatives in the field of nursing education,” said NLN President and CEO Dr. Beverly Malone, “This will be another year of outstanding and productive achievement, helping to boost the personal and professional standing of this exclusive cohort chosen for 2025 LEAD.” A list of 2025 LEAD participants can be […] “‘Ville’s Dr. Moyer Selected for LEAD Program”

MU Alumna Competes in Special Olympics, Wins Bronze Millersville graduate Tamsin Hircock is one of just 101 athletes chosen to represent the United States at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy. Tamsin is competing in the snowboarding event from March 7-15, 2025. She earned a bronze medal in the Intermediate Giant Slalom Division 10 with a time of 3:47.740 on March 12. Tamsin and her father, David Hircock, are excited about their journey to compete in the Special Olympics. “Although I want to win a gold medal, I love being with my U.S. team members and am so excited to meet teams from around the world,” Tamsin says. “I am also hoping to meet with the delegates from India, a country I have worked in for 20 years, gifting bikes to girls so they can travel to school.” Tamsin’s love for snowboarding started at a young age – three years old – but continued through her time at Millersville as she completed the integrated studies program. Millersville’s integrated studies initiative provides students with intellectual disabilities access to an inclusive postsecondary education and residential experience. The program aspires to prepare each student for gainful employment. “I love Millersville and all the friends I made and still have from my time there. Millersville taught me to be independent. I also had many jobs at MU, from working in the gym to the coffee shop. This has helped me so much as I now work at the YMCA,” shares Tamsin. David also remarks on how Millersville impacted both Tamsin and their family. “Millersville enabled Tamsin to be independent. What I observed that impressed me so much was the culture of Millersville, which truly integrated students within the college,” David says. “I believe their program is unique, and all the students lived the Millersville mission to provide diverse, dynamic, meaningful experiences to inspire learners to grow both intellectually and personally enabling them to contribute positively to local and global communities. It is not just Tamsin who misses college; her whole family also does!” Visit turin2025.org/en to learn more about the Special Olympics Winter World Games. For more information on Integrat […] “MU Alumna Competes in Special Olympics, Wins Bronze”

Using LEGO Bricks to Teach STEM Millersville University will offer a free science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education-focused workshop using LEGO Spike Essentials materials suited for education majors on March 18. This event is a partnership with S2STEM, an education center focused on student enrichment within the STEM umbrella, providing different programs to children to promote a love for these subjects through hands-on activities. The event will take place on March 18 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in Caputo Hall, Room 211. The host of the workshop hopes to encourage participants like Science in Education in Technology & Engineering majors, iSTEM minors, or anyone with an interest in STEM education to be a part of the workshop. There are 15 spaces available for this workshop. Though this workshop is more geared towards students at the university, local teachers are welcome to sign up and learn about how to add LEGOs into their STEM classrooms. The intention of the workshop is to provide a hands-on experience to attendees by using LEGO building, coding, and robotics in order to teach elementary students STEM-related skills. The goal of this workshop is for participants to learn ways to use these tools and integrate them into their STEM classrooms. “We will be using LEGO Spike Essential kits, which are LEGO bricks specifically designed to provide hands-on learning to encourage problem-solving. The kits can introduce students to coding while keeping the familiarity of building with LEGO bricks,” said graduate assistant for the Department of Education Foundations, Liz Rickrode. “LEGO Spike Essential comes with 10 national-standards-aligned units, so it can easily be incorporated into any classroom. These kits help students to become independent problem solvers and introduce them to STEM fields from a young […] “Using LEGO Bricks to Teach STEM”

Lockey Lecture & Global Wellbeing Conference What does it mean to be human? How do we embrace humanness? How does kindness promote humankind? These questions and more will be explored at the free 12th annual Global Well-Being and Social Change Conference hosted at Millersville University on March 20 and 21, available to attend online or in person. This year’s theme is Advocacy for Humankind, and the event will be held in conjunction with the 35th annual Anne Funk Lockey Lecture.   Andrew Slack, founder of Imagine Better Stories, will serve as the keynote speaker for the Lockey lecture on March 20 at 7 p.m. in the Winter Center’s Biemesderfer Concert Hall.  Slack was also a co-founder of the Harry Potter Alliance, later renamed Fandom, where he inspired over a million fans of the popular series to become activists. Through this organization, he had extended this activism past the world of Harry Potter and into other fandoms like The Hunger Games, Superman, and Star Wars. These movements have expanded to over 30 countries, and his work was featured in over 100 major news outlets and has earned him fellowships at Ashoka, the Nathan Cummings Foundation, Civic Hall, as well as Millersville University’s Distinguished Civic Leadership Award.   Sessions will continue on March 21 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Stayer Hall for the conference, where MU social work associate professor Dr. Heather Garvin will serve as the plenary speaker. Outside of her role at MU, she’s the founder of Lone Oak Animal-Assisted Therapeutic and Educational Services. Her talks will center around lessons learned while working with animals in a therapy setting. Those interested in attending can view the schedule here, which includes the full lineup of speakers.  The events are free to attend, but registration is required. Attendees can earn Continuing Education credits for attending the conference for $25.   Register for the Lockey Lecture here. Register for the Global W […] “Lockey Lecture & Global Wellbeing Conference”

Faculty/Staff Activities M […] “Faculty/Staff Activities”

Warfel Center for International Programs and Services Millersville University marked a historic milestone with the official dedication and naming of the Michael G. Warfel ’84 Center for International Programs and Services on March 5. The event, held on campus, honored Millersville University Council of Trustees Chairman Michael G. Warfel for his support and advocacy for global education. The ceremony brought together a distinguished audience, including members of the Millersville University Council of Trustees, the president’s cabinet, academic deans, alumni, faculty, staff and friends. The Office of International Programs and Services plays a vital role at Millersville University in fostering cross-cultural connections, supporting international students, and expanding global opportunities for Millersville University students. There is an increasing number of students engaged in global education and new partnerships to extend the University’s international reach. “The valuable investment in global education is profoundly important now more than ever, as we build an international network that connects students throughout the world,” said Dr. Dan Kulmala, assistant vice president for International Programs and Global Engagement. “Our University opens its doors to the world with a welcoming spirit, transforming lives through international mobility.” Millersville University President Dr. Daniel A. Wubah delivered remarks recognizing Warfel’s leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing the University’s global engagement efforts. “The Michael G. Warfel ’84 Center for International Programs and Services will serve as a beacon of opportunity,” Wubah remarked. “Mike, your generosity and vision will forever shape the future of international education at Millersville University.” A 1984 graduate of Millersville University, Warfel has a degree in political science and has played a pivotal role in expanding international education opportunities. He has been instrumental in initiatives such as the International Flag Project, which showcases flags from the home countries of Millersville’s international students, and the establishment of the Michael G. Warfel ’84 Fund for International Student Experiences, supporting student scholarships and global programs. Since Spring 2021, Warfel has been the senior vice president of government affairs at Highmark Inc., one of the largest health insurance companies in the nation. Warfel has served on the Council of Trustees for Millersville University since 1999 and is currently chairman of the COT. He also serves on the Pennsylvania Stat […] “Warfel Center for International Programs and Services”

Jesse Krimes – Keynote for Conrad Nelson Lecture Millersville University’s Department of Art & Design welcomes alumnus Jesse Krimes ’08, as the 2025 Conrad Nelson Artist. His work, which has been exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, examines systems of power and control, focusing on criminal and racial justice. During a six-year prison sentence, he produced and smuggled out numerous art pieces, founded art programs, and co-created artist collectives. The Conrad Nelson Lecture is scheduled for Thursday, April 3, at 7 p.m. in the Winter Visual & Performing Arts Center on campus. It is free and open to the public. Krimes is the founder and director of the Center for Art & Advocacy, the first national organization dedicated to supporting creatives impacted by the justice system. Krimes also led a successful class-action lawsuit against JPMorgan Chase, challenging predatory fees imposed on formerly incarcerated individuals. Krimes earned an Emmy Award for his documentary “Art and Krimes by Krimes.” His art has been exhibited at major institutions, including MoMA PS1, Palais de Tokyo, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the International Red Cross Museum. He was awarded fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation, Pew Research Center, Rauschenberg Foundation, Creative Capital, the Mellon Foundation, and the Art for Justice Fund. His work is in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Brooklyn Museum, Kadist Foundation, Bunker Artspace, and the Agnes Gund Collection collections. He is represented by Jack Shainman Gallery in New York. The Conrad Nelson Artist-In-Residence Fellowship, established in 2000 by MU alumnus Conrad Nelson, hosts accomplished visual artists working in various media, displays and describes their works, gives public lectures on issues in the arts, and interacts with students, faculty, and other members of the greater Millersville community. For more information, contact Heidi Leitzke / heidi.leitzke@millersville.edu/ 717.871.7253  or Shauna Frischkorn / shauna.f […] “Jesse Krimes – Keynote for Conrad Nelson Lecture”

Millersville University Explores AI The burgeoning world of generative artificial intelligence will be discussed at Millersville University’s “Lancaster AI Symposium 2.0.” The ‘Ville’s Lombardo College of Business will host the symposium on April 4 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This day-long event will bring together business professionals and educators from around the region to collectively talk about the impacts of this transformative technology on higher education and many other industries. What started out as a simple interest in AI for the Dean of the Lombardo College of Business, Dr. Marc Tomljanovich, turned into a realization that the possibilities of AI will cause major disruptions to all industries. “Those attending can expect to gain valuable insights into the future of AI, networking opportunities, and engaging interactive learning experiences,” says Tomljanovich. Tomljanovich is eager to expand the symposium’s offerings to Millersville students this year. “This year, we are holding the symposium on campus and encouraging students to attend. It is more important now than ever that students understand AI technologies to excel in their future endeavors and for business owners and employees to understand how AI can be used as an asset,” says Tomljanovich. The symposium offers real-world examples of why understanding the potential uses of artificial intelligence is imperative. Computer scientist Ashutosh Saxena, the keynote speaker, is the co-founder and CEO of Caspar.AI. By using generative artificial intelligence to predict health and wellness markers, Caspar.AI lets patients and providers enact preventative treatment. Saxena’s cutting-edge technology continues to pave the way for the healthcare industry. In addition to the keynote, there will be panel discussions, demos, a networking luncheon, and hands-on activities. “We are helping to prepare you for your career. If we said you can’t use Chat GPT [on assignments] at your first job with all of that at your fingertips, you won’t be able to augment your natural skills and experiences,” said Tomljanovich. The symposium will be held in Millersville University’s Student Memorial Center. For more information and to register, please go here […] “Millersville University Explores AI”

Commonsense Investments to Fight Food Insecurity The Pennsylvania Department of Education visited Millersville University on March 6 to learn more about their new Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Station for students. SNAP is funded by the Shapiro Administration’s Hunger-Free Campus initiative, which aims to increase student awareness about resources and benefits. “Food insecurity affects college students throughout the Commonwealth, yet many students aren’t aware of the resources available to them,” said Deputy Secretary for Postsecondary and Higher Education Lynette Kuhn. “We are grateful for schools like Millersville University that are helping to address students’ basic needs in the short term while creating lasting change in their lives in the long term.” The SNAP Station was started thanks to funding from the PA Hunger-Free Campus Initiative. It not only provides a selection of free snacks, food items, and water to students, but it also provides additional services, including: information on SNAP benefits, eligibility criteria, and the application process; basic needs resources, including campus and community resources; free food distribution information, such as local food banks, pantries, and other community food assistance; and PA 211 and housing resources. Students are also encouraged to meet with the MSW Basic Needs Intern, apply for the EPPIIC Compassion Fund, and visit the Hub and Campus Cupboard for one of their free meals each week and to shop for food supplies. “The SNAP Station fills an important gap for students who need support and help with their basic needs but don’t know where to start,” said Dr. Mary Beth Williams, Vice President for Student Affairs. “The primary function of the station is to provide information on SNAP Benefits, free meal opportunities and food pantries in the local area, housing assistance, and health insurance. It also provides basic food and water for students who need to eat in the moment as they are walking through the Student Memorial Center. It’s a quick stop for helpful information and resources that are available to all students in need.” The PA Hunger Free Campus Initiative invites colleges and universities to apply for the PA Hunger-Free Campus or PA Hunger-Free Campus+ designation to demonstrate their commitment to addressing basic needs and diminishing barriers for learners. Institutions that have received the designation are invited to submit an application for consideration to receive funds to address food insecurity on campus. In addition to the new SNAP Station on Millersville’s campus, the University also actively collaborates with local community organizations. The establishment of the SNAP Station is part of the University’s commitment to alleviate student food insecurity and address basic needs, ensuring that all students have the support and access they need to be successful students and support their […] “Commonsense Investments to Fight Food Insecurity”

The Nest: New Commuter Lounge   Commuter students face different challenges than residential students, including long commutes, limited on-campus time and potential feelings of isolation. The Division of Student Affairs at Millersville University is addressing these issues by opening a new lounge dedicated to commuters. The Nest is a multipurpose space where commuters can relax, study and spend time between classes.    The Nest is located in the Student Memorial Center, Room 104, the former computer lab. The printer station from the lab has been relocated near the main clock tower entrance for easy access to students who need to print on the go.   The Nest is currently available for student lounging and had its official grand opening on Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025.    After witnessing the challenges of commuting, Aly Sehl, assistant director of student affairs of commuter services and student conduct, and John Hearn, director of operations at the Student Memorial Center, took it upon themselves to tackle this project and provide a space that meets the needs of commuter students.      Sehl explains that the purpose of a lounge primarily for commuter students is to address the unique needs and challenges of commuting and to help students feel more connected to campus life. “The Nest aims to make their college experience more comfortable, convenient and inclusive,” she says.      Hearn, a former commuter, understands the demands of traveling between home, campus and often work. “While commuter students are resilient, even resilience needs a place to rest. That is what we hope to provide with The Nest. A place for commuters to find a home away from home, rest, relax, study or simply nap in a semi-public area created just for them,” he says. Their primary goal driving the creation of The Nest is to provide a “home base” on campus where students can rest, recharge, study and socialize, creating a sense of community and belonging.    “The Nest is an essential part of the University’s broader vision by supporting commuter students by fostering a sense of community and improving student well-being,” explains Sehl. “Many commuter students experience a disconnect from campus life due to limited on-campus presence and fewer opportunities for spontaneous social interaction. Students who feel as though they belong at their institution are more likely to retain and persist. Commuter students tend to be transactional and do not stay on campus between classes because they do not have a place to go where they feel they belong. The Nest changes that.”    To properly provide commuter students with the amenities they need, Sehl and Hearn surveyed commuters to see what features would enhance their experience on campus. Hearn then put together a team of student representatives and engaged staff to review the survey feedback and seek out best practices and available resources from the professional organization for student unions, the Association of College Unions International. As a result, The Nest was transformed to fit the needs of commuters. The outcomes are reflected in The Nest’s design, which includes three distinct areas:    A practical space with a refrigerator, microwave, Keurig coffee maker, computers and storage.   A personal space with quiet study areas, napping spots and privacy.   A public space designed to encourage collaboration and community-building.    “My favorite parts are the little details within the lounge that make it feel like home,” shares Sehl. “Including the lighting, relaxing waterfall, comfortable seating, conversation cards and other games to spark community building.”      “The lounge is a grassroots project created by and for students,” concludes H […] “The Nest: New Commuter Lounge  “

High School Math Protégés Descend on Millersville   Over 200 high school students will visit Millersville University to compete in the 50th Annual High School Mathematics Contest on Feb. 26. More than thirty school districts are bringing teams to compete in the annual competition. Contestants will tackle concepts from areas such as algebra, geometry, trigonometry, elementary function, logic, probability and number theory. The annual event is designed to give high school students a chance to showcase their math abilities and challenge themselves. Diana Garber, mathematics instructor at MU and event co-organizer, shares why students should be excited to participate. “They have a chance to work with their peers and meet students from other schools with similar interests,” she says. “It is also an opportunity to be on a college campus to see what is happening at Millersville University.” There are two parts to the competition. The first section consists of an individual short answer portion. The second part of the competition introduces teams of four competing against groups from other schools. Individual scores will be recorded to award the winning students with plaques of recognition. The top-scoring teams will also receive a plaque, and their scores will be determined by the sum of their team members’ individual scores and points as a team. While the annual math contest allows students to come together and celebrate their skills, it also allows Millersville to showcase its Department of Mathematics to prospective students. Past Millersville graduates who are now teachers often return to the event, bringing their interested students with them. “We continue this event because we are interested in providing an opportunity for students to participate in an academic activity where recognition is given to some of the most talented students in our region,” Garber concludes. The math contest will be held in the Student Memorial Center’s Multipurpose Room on Wednesday, Feb. 26, from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Registr […] “High School Math Protégés Descend on Millersville  “

SNAP Station Supports Student Food Security   To support student food security, Millersville University is taking a significant step by opening a new SNAP Station. The station just opened across from the Student Affairs Suite in the upper seating area of the Galley in the Student Memorial Center.  The station aims to increase awareness of and access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits for students. “So many of our students are in need, and many of our students qualify for SNAP benefits but don’t know it,” explains Dr. Mary Beth Williams, vice president for Student Affairs at Millersville University. “This project, funded through the PA Hunger Free Campus Grant, is intended to feed students in the short term while providing them information about resources that can help them meet their basic needs for the long term.” The SNAP Station will serve as a central hub for students seeking support with food insecurity. Key services include: Information on SNAP Benefits: Students can learn about eligibility criteria, application processes and how to apply for SNAP benefits. Basic Needs Resources: The station provides information on various campus and community resources, including the Millersville Basic Needs Intern, who can assist students in navigating the available support systems. Free Food Distribution Information: Students will find details about local food banks, pantries and other community organizations offering free food assistance. PA 211 Resources: Information on a wide range of community services, including housing assistance, healthcare and mental health support, will be readily available. Free Food and Water: The station will offer immediate access to essential food and water for students in need. Any Millersville University student facing food insecurity is eligible to use the SNAP Station. The University is actively collaborating with local community organizations, particularly the HUB, which houses the Campus Cupboard and provides multiple free meals to students each week. “We are interested in making the SNAP Station what the students need it to be to support their needs. We welcome input as we launch this project and maintain the station,” emphasizes Williams. Establishing the SNAP Station is part of the University’s commitment to alleviating student food insecurity and ensuring that all students have the necessary support for their academic and pe […] “SNAP Station Supports Student Food Security  “

Meet DSW Graduate: Dr. Miranda Blackburn   Dr. Miranda Blackburn, a clinical social worker and associate professor, has dedicated her career and research to supporting veterans, engaging in crisis response, preventing suicide and advancing social work education. Blackburn graduated from Millersville University’s Doctor of Social Work program in May 2024. Since her graduation, Blackburn has used her experience and expertise to navigate the field of social work with a passion for impactful change.  MU: Why did you choose Millersville for the DSW program?  Blackburn: Millersville offered coursework relevant to my career goals and is one of the DSW programs that requires a dissertation. This was important to me because I wanted a program that would prepare me to engage in meaningful research that is informed by clinical and practice experience.   MU: Tell us about your background.  Blackburn: My social work experience has mainly been corrections, military social work, crisis response, suicidology and academia. While working in corrections as a clinical social worker and later as an administrator, I found myself interacting with lots of justice-involved and incarcerated veterans. This inspired me to learn more about factors that influence what I was seeing and become more culturally aware. This directly informed the decision to be commissioned into the Army National Guard as a social worker.   MU: How are you using your degree?  Blackburn: Currently, I am fortunate enough to be in an associate professor position at Concord University’s accredited social work program. Additionally, the knowledge gained through the dissertation process has provided platforms in the professional space to address issues that are meaningful to me. I am also an active member of the West Virginia Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide in Service Members, Veterans and their Families. Recently, I was invited to join the West Virginia Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention as a board member. I am developing training and coursework to inform helping professionals about working with military and veteran populations.     MU: What inspired you to pursue a DSW degree?  Blackburn: Honestly, I wanted to remain in higher education, and the DSW gave me a pathway to increased job stability through access to tenure-track positions. Additionally, I wanted to get back into research because research-informed practice is an essential part of social work.   MU: Can you tell us about a specific project or research you worked on during your program that had a significant impact on you and your understanding of social work?  Blackburn: As someone who does not have a BSW (my undergraduate degree is in psychology), a lot of professional history was provided through the coursework, which helped me better understand social work origins and frameworks. I enjoyed the opportunity to formally research a topic that was important to me.  For the dissertation, I focused on the topic of military suicide. This was done through an examination of post-mortem investigations that were completed with National Guard service members where suicide was the cause of death. The Adjutant General of the Ohio National Guard invited me to discuss the findings of the research. This support provided the opportunity to engage in further discussions around prevention, intervention, and postvention within the organization. There is an amazing community that has been brought together through shared experiences around suicide. And while this carries a profound sadness, it also shows what people can accomplish when there is hope that things can get better.  This experience was a great reminder of the value of collaborative work and the impact that social work can have at all levels of practice. The dissertation structure at Millersville allowed me to explore areas of practice in ways that I would not have otherwise considered.     MU: What were some of the most challenging aspects of the DSW program, and how did you overcome them?  Blackburn: Life. Life happens no matter what your personal or professional career goals are. I had a lot of setbacks during the process due to health, military obligations, work and family. The cohort model was helpful because all of us supported each other through the process. I gained a lot of valued friendships. Some good mentorship arose from these challenges.   MU: Were there any mentors or professors who significantly influenced your journey through the DSW program? Blackburn: I would like to thank my committee members. I am planning to collaborate on future research with members of my committee as they continue to support my professional journey after the doctorate.  MU: How do you envision applying your DSW degree to influence change within communities, organizations or the broader social systems?  Blackburn: There are a lot of opportunities to influence change through research and curriculum development. I have found that there is a dearth of formal training on suicide prevention and military culture in undergraduate and graduate social work programs.   Through collaborative efforts that come with working at a small Appalachian university, especially one that provides education to many first-generation students going into social work, current and relevant issues of the geographic region are brought to the forefront. This allows for engagement with all levels of systems in a more personalized and real way that bolsters not only the community but also student learning.   These students are the future of social work and having the opportunity to be a part of their journey influences change for the future. The skills and knowledge gained during my time in the DSW have shaped my approach as an educator.    MU: Looking back at your time in the DSW program, what are you most proud of accomplishing? Blackburn: Although I have a lot of self-criticism on what could be better with my research, I know that the dissertation is only an introductory work that I will build upon as I continue to engage in research. It was important to me to tackle an issue and topic that would provide a challenge and be meaningful in my future work. I am proud that my topic created a forum for difficult conversations around suicide prevention and military populations. I hope that this discourse continues in a way that increases awareness and decreases stigma about suicide and military populations.   MU: What advice would you give students considering the DSW program today?  Blackburn: Understand your “why” for doing the program. It is a lot of time, money and work to invest in this journey. Have a clear intention with your journey, and it will make it easier to navigate the obstacles that will inevitably arise. The value is in the journey, and it will be worth it.   MU: What are your career goals moving forward, and how do you plan to use your DSW degree to shape your future in social work?  Blackburn: I plan to continue working in education (for which the DSW is essential) and incorporate clinical work more actively into my professional arena. I also hope to start working on some new research and community projects. An area of significant professional interest to me is the development of suicide mortality review boards, which are becoming more recognized and supported in suicide prevention work. I am also taking steps to engage with crisis response and crisis intervention teams in […] “Meet DSW Graduate: Dr. Miranda Blackburn  “

Iron Chef Competition Returns   A dash of creativity, a pinch of competition and a whole lot of flavor — Millersville University’s Iron Chef Competition returns this year. Teams will chef it up to impress a panel of judges as they compete for the title of Iron Chef and this year’s theme is Local Lancaster. The competition will be held March 4, 2025, in the Upper Deck.     “When I returned as a staff member, I wanted to revive the event since it was a unique and different way to bring the campus community together,” says Samantha Wary, assistant director of campus recreation. “This event allows the campus community to find ways to celebrate their own culture and personality while accepting the challenge of our theme and secret ingredient.”    Since its re-establishment, the Iron Chef event has made some upgrades. Teams have been expanded to eight members rather than five and the event is now a partner of the Hunger Free Taskforce.     “The theme of Local Lancaster came from the State of the ‘Ville address that celebrated the vibrancy the local area offers. We wanted to continue this idea,” says Wary.    The contestants are expected to create small plates to serve to the judges that fit within the annual theme. At the start of the competition, Millersville’s Executive Chef, John Johnson, will announce a surprise ingredient that the teams will need to incorporate into their planned recipe.   Teams will be judged based on three criteria:     Organization (15 points)    Cooking Skills and Techniques (15 points)    Taste (15 points)    The winning team crowned the Iron Chef, will receive a plaque with a photo of the winning members. This plaque will live in a public place on campus to celebrate the team throughout the year. Other category winners will also receive prizes.     “We are hoping to have a large audience this year after relocating into a larger area in the Upper Deck,” says Wary. “We also are hosting the event during dinner to encourage students to stop by and watch the competition when they come in for food.”    Wary encourages contestants to have fun and celebrate what they enjoy most. “One of the dishes last year was a fried rice dish with a Cajian spin, and we’re still talking about it. The international student team found a way to celebrate their culture while still matching the theme,” she adds.    Team registration is now open and will conclude on Feb. 14, 2025.    Teams can sign up now using this link: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=lDfskvC4k0-3M3owqKK1G2f […] “Iron Chef Competition Returns  “

Millersville's Reel Courage Film Series Millersville University’s Dr. Jill Craven, professor of English and Film Studies, will present a series of films entitled “Reel Courage” throughout the semester starting on Feb. 11.   This film series features a variety of documentaries that explore LGBTQ+ history as well as current events that are affecting this community. All of the films presented will be accompanied by a panel discussion with community members relevant to the film. These viewings will take place on Tuesday evenings throughout the semester at 6 p.m. in the Myers Auditorium in McComsey Hall Room 260 and are free and open to the public.  The first film presented on Feb. 11 will be the Oscar-winning “The Times of Harvey Milk” which depicts the career of Harvey Milk, San Francisco’s first elected gay city representative. Following the film screening, a panel of LGBTQ+ individuals will discuss their experiences with gay rights. When asked about the importance of presenting this film series, Craven said, “Lancaster County has recently experienced more than its share of LGBTQ+ youth suicides—a stark reminder of the profound consequences of intolerance. Our community’s actions matter,” she says.   On Feb. 25, the film “Banned Together” will be presented, which discusses book bans and curriculum censorship in public schools. This film will be paired with a panel of librarians including Sarah DeMaria, president-elect of the Pennsylvania School Librarians Association Advocacy Committee; Coreena Byrnes, Director of Library Services at the Lancaster Public Library; Matthew Good, the 2024 recipient of the John Phillip Immroth Memorial Award from the American Library Association; and members of the Panther Anti-Racist Union from York PA, who successfully challenged book bans in York.  On March 25, the community is invited to watch, “1946: The Mistranslation that Shifted a Culture,” a film following the story of researchers tracing the origins of the anti-gay movement among Christians leading to a mistranslation of the Bible in 1946. The panel presenters for this film will be Dr. Greg Carey from the Lancaster Theological Seminary; Rev. Kathryn Kuhn, the senior pastor of the Church of the Apostles; as well as students who have been impacted by conservative biblical teachings.  On April 8, a screening of the film “Bad Faith” that examines the rise of Christian Nationalism will be available to view. Joining the panel discussion following the movie are Dr. Greg Carey from the Lancaster Theological Seminary and Malinda Harnish Clatterbuck, the Associate Director of the Center for Sustainable Environment at Franklin & Marshall College.   “Amidst the social and political backlash against LGBTQ+ communities, the Reel Courage Film Series aims to promote justice by fostering awareness and empathy,” says Dr. Craven. “Through learning the history of the gay rights movement (“The Times of Harvey Milk”), exploring the importance of affirming literature (“Banned Together”), understanding how a mistranslation of the Bible fuels bigotry (“1946”) and revealing the dangerous forces at work to merge Church and State (“Bad Faith”), the series aspires to inspire meaningful dialogue and change.”   This film series is sponsored largely by Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, the College of Education and Human Services, the Department of English and World Languages, the Department of Communication and Theatre, the Department of Criminology, Sociology and Anthropology, the President’s Commission on Gender and Sexuality as well as the Lancas […] “Millersville’s Reel Courage Film Series”

Carter G. Woodson Lecture: Reparation Funds    “Reparations to address racial inequities have long been a topic of concern in this country. But it has also remained largely unaddressed,” says Dr. Caleb Corkery, professor of English at Millersville University. To that end, University of Delaware professor Dr. Yasser Payne, the featured speaker at the 57th Annual Carter G. Woodson Lecture, will host a lecture titled, “What Difference Could a Reparations Fund Addressing Racial Inequities Make in Our Community?” The event will take place on Feb. 27 from 7 – 8:30 p.m. in the multipurpose room of the Student Memorial Center.    Payne is a professor of sociology in the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice and the Department of African Studies at the University of Delaware. Payne obtained his Ph.D. at the Graduate Center-City University of New York. His research interests include structural violence and gun violence with street-identified Black Americans.    “Dr. Payne brings expertise in the field of systemic inequities based on race,” says Corkery, who organizes the lecture series. “His work covers many relevant issues that point out the legacy of slavery and Jim Crow, examining policing and reentry, economic well-being and educational inequality and gun violence. He can provide historical context as well as current examples to illustrate the various ways inequities have been passed down.”   A panel of local Black leaders (Darlene Byrd, Deborah Gadsden and Derek Smith) were also invited to participate in the lecture to discuss how they see the legacy of inequities based on racism still in society today. They will discuss how they see systems segregating racial experience and opportunity in local communities. The conversation with the panel, Payne and the audience will be facilitated by Reverand Roland Forbes from Ebenezer Baptist Church in Lancaster.      Reparation funds are financial or other forms of compensation intended to address and rectify the lasting impacts of racial inequality and discrimination, primarily focusing on the historical and ongoing systematic injustices faced by Black Americans. These funds aim to provide resources to those who have been disproportionately affected by the indelible impression of racial injustice and social inequalities in America.    Reparation funds acknowledge the harm caused by slavery, segregation and ongoing systematic racism. Through these funds, there is an attempt to rectify the centuries of cultural damage and oppression that has cumulated through generations.    “According to a 2020 Board of Governors report on wealth disparities, the median wealth of a white family is nearly eight times that of the median Black family—a statistic largely unchanged in the past three decades, shares Corkery, noting that a Mennonite church in Lancaster County started a reparations fund addressing systemic racism locally.  The Carter G. Woodson Lecture series has been a part of Millersville University since the early 1990s and continues to bring African American activists to MU. It is named after Carter G. Woodson, an acclaimed writer and African American activist.   “Carter G. Woodson is a luminary in Black Studies. He brought attention to the study of African Americans in history, highlighting the value of seeing both daily life and history through Black American perspectives. This event reminds us that featuring Black history and perspectives enriches understanding of all American history and identity,” concludes Corkery.    No tickets are required for this event.  For more information, contact Dr. Caleb Corkery caleb.cor […] “Carter G. Woodson Lecture: Reparation Funds   “