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Alumna Named Newest Eckert Honoree Starting in 2015, the Susan C. and Gerald C. Eckert Service and Philanthropy Endowment Award has been given to a recipient to encourage others in philanthropic support and recognize a commitment of service to Millersville University. This year’s recipient, Karen Ashkar Murley ’63, was honored with an award ceremony on April 9 at the Eckert Art Gallery that celebrated her decades of support to scholarships, academic programs and more at Millersville. As a part of the recognition, Murley will choose a University program to receive the annual spendable income from the endowment. The endowment award is selected based on exemplary service and philanthropy in advancing the mission of public higher education. Innovative ideas or practices assisting public higher education are considered as a part of the selection criteria. Murley is a member of Millersville’s exclusive Fiat Lux Society which honors the contributions of donors whose gifts and pledges total $1 million or more. “I am honored, and still in awe, to have been chosen as this year’s recipient of the award. Thank you to Susan and Jerry for their forward thinking in recognizing and supporting so generously the very necessary habit of giving to support Millersville University’s mission and its students,” shares Murley. “My thanks to the advancement staff who continue to cordially and inventively guide my contributions in a variety of ways for meaningful results. It has been my pleasure, frequently, to see and to learn from the positive outcomes of investing in our students – our future.” About the Eckert Art Gallery The Eckert Art Gallery was opened in 2012 with the mission to present diverse, dynamic and meaningful visual art experiences that inspire learners to grow intellectually and personally. Today, it is the University’s main exhibition space and seeks to feature nationally and internationally recognized artists to infuse the local and regional art community with new perspectives and exceptional […] “Alumna Named Newest Eckert Honoree”

Millersville a ‘Refuge’ for Refugees In keeping with Millersville University’s core values of public mission, inclusion and compassion, president Daniel A. Wubah signed an agreement with Every Campus A Refuge to make the University a partner that provides housing and resettlement services to refugee families with assistance from Church World Services Lancaster.   ECAR’s mission is to mobilize colleges and universities to host refugees on campus grounds and support their successful integration. Millersville became the first University in the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education to sign on. Presently, the University is hosting one refugee family on campus with plans to house more. CWS Lancaster provides direct support to the family with housing and living assistance.   “Millersville University is honored to have been selected to be a formally recognized ECAR chapter and to host a family on campus,” says Dr. Gail Gasparich, provost at the University. Students, faculty and staff pitched in to welcome the new campus residents. Refugees and Immigrants Devoted To Growth and Excellence, a student organization, picked the family up from the airport, helped to set up the house and hosted a drive to help collect items for the newcomers.   “I am thrilled that Millersville University joined the ECAR network,” says Dr. Diya Abdo, founder and director of Every Campus A Refuge. “I am deeply moved by the profound commitment to community and hospitality I have seen in everyone at Millersville – students, faculty, staff and administration – and to Church World Service Lancaster whose staff are transforming the landscape of refugee resettlement in Lancaster County and beyond.” Abdo says she hopes that other institutions in PASSHE will quickly follow suit. “We are hopeful that other institutions will participate in this innovative community engagement model that changes lives.”  “CWS Lancaster has been honored to work with the Millersville campus community this year in welcoming a family to peace and safety,” said Ramon Escudero, Associate Director for Welcome at CWS Lancaster. “We know the family, and future ECAR families, are grateful for the friendship and connections the campus is providing. The ECAR model is a powerful opportunity for higher education institutions to maximize community resources in support of life-saving resettlement.”  EVERY CAMPUS A REFUGE and ECAR are service marks owned by Every Campus A Refuge, a North Carolina non-profit corporation, and are […] “Millersville a ‘Refuge’ for Refugees”

Kate Corcoran named Millersville University Director of Athletics After a nationwide search, Millersville University announced today that Kate Corcoran will be the next director of athletics. Corcoran comes to the ‘Ville from Cabrini University, where she served as vice president of athletics and student engagement. “Kate’s leadership experience in the areas of athletics and student engagement will benefit our student-athletes,” said Dr. Gail Gasparich, Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs at Millersville. “Having an equal commitment to our students’ athletic endeavors and academic experiences will ensure our students benefit from all aspects of their college experience at Millersville University.” At Cabrini, Corcoran provided leadership in the areas of the student-athlete experience including residence life, student engagement and leadership, counseling and psychological services and health services. She also designed, implemented, managed and evaluated Cabrini’s 18 intercollegiate athletics programs and oversaw the budget. “I am excited and grateful to be joining Millersville University and leading Millersville Athletics,” said Corcoran. “My sincere thanks to President Wubah, Dr. Gasparich, Dr. Lynn Marquez and the entire search committee for trusting me with this role. Throughout the entire process, I was very impressed by the student-athletes, staff, coaches, and individuals I met at Millersville. Their commitment to each other, the student-athletes, and the passion they have for Millersville Athletics was palpable. I am excited to join the Marauder community and look forward to the journey working with the coaches and staff to provide a quality and successful student athlete experience.” Corcoran has been with Cabrini since 2016, when she started as senior associate director of athletics and senior women’s administrator. In 2021, she was named director of athletics and recreation and became vice president of athletics and student engagement in 2022. During her time at Cabrini, the men’s lacrosse program won the 2019 NCAA Division III Championship, and the department totaled 41 CSAC and Atlantic East Conference championships in six years. Eleven programs reached NCAA Tournament play. She successfully raised funds for several facility enhancement projects, and she launched the department’s first week of giving that has since topped its goal in each of the last three years. She has also served on numerous NCAA committees. “We will look to provide a quality student-athlete experience that includes striving for competitive and academic excellence,” said Corcoran. “Millersville Athletics is positioned to be successful not only in the PSAC but regionally and nationally, and my focus will be to further build on the success the Marauder community has achieved. The experience we provide will prepare our student-athletes for life after Millersville and set them up to be successful in their chosen career path. “As the director of athletics, I plan to be very visible and collaborative not only with our coaches, staff and student-athletes but across the entire campus as well,” said Corcoran. “I believe it is important to listen and interact with the community so we can better serve our student-athletes as we strive to push our department forward.” Before Cabrini, Corcoran was the assistant director of athletics at Rosemont College and before that was the senior women’s administrator, compliance officer and sports information director for Penn State University, Berks Campus. She started her career in collegiate sports as a basketball coach at Ursinus and later at Cabrini. Corcoran was a standout basketball player at DeSales University and a member of both the DeSales University and Middle Atlantic Conference halls of fame. Corcoran earned a bachelor’s degree in sports management/business administration from DeSales University and a master’s degree in business administration from Rosemont College. Corcoran will continue to direct Cabrini through the remainder of the athletic year and will officially begin as director of athletics at Millersville in the summer of 2024. Millersville Associate Director of Athletics Larry Earnesty will continue to serve as Millersville’s interim director of athletics during that time. “I want to personally thank Larry for graciously serving as our interim director of athletics,” said Gasparich. “Larry […] “Kate Corcoran named Millersville University Director of Athletics”

Seeing Pink: Barbie, the Oscars & Online Discourse With the Oscars just around the corner, a discussion surrounding the Academy award show has started to stir. This March 10 will be the 96th Academy Awards. Since its beginning in 1929, there have been opinions and conversations about which motion picture nominees should be rewarded as winners in each category. Recently, there has been discourse regarding the nominations for the “Barbie” movie.    With the conversation around the upcoming award show, Dr. Amber Nicole Pfannenstiel, professor of English at Millersville University, joins the ongoing discussion about the Oscars and shares her thoughts on the Barbie movie discourse.   The Oscars are designed to officially recognize the cinematic excellence of films through the Academy of Motion Pictures, an organization of members who screen and vote in each award category.    “For the Oscars, votes are tallied, and the nominee with the most votes wins. A huge part of the pomp and circumstance surrounding the Oscars is that only two members know the results – with a briefcase carrying the results, often handcuffed to one of the two knowing members being broadcast to build suspense within the show,” Pfannenstiel explains. “Saying that, I think there has been some important conversation in the last 10 years about which films, actors and directors are nominated and celebrated. A hashtag like #oscarssowhite is just one example of the pushback over the last decade to who is celebrated and who is visibly ignored by the Academy of Motion Pictures. There is a pattern with the Oscars celebrating white actors, actresses and directors who appeared in specific genres of films, telling specific types of stories.”   When the 2024 Oscars nominations were released, the internet was shocked to find that Margot Robbie and Greta Gerwig were not nominated for the Best Leading Actress and Best Director categories. The Barbie community was astounded as they believed this was unjust and went against the feminist message in the film. Pfannenstiel explains that the reason could be as simple as the film or acting didn’t fit the pattern of what is celebrated by voting members of the Academy of Motion Pictures.   “Barbie’s story of feminism told through popping colors and comedy really doesn’t fit the pattern at all. It was so unlikely for the film and Lead/Supporting Actors even to be nominated simply because it is a comedy. The feminism, poppy Barbie pink and high box office numbers most likely shifted how the Academy viewed the film, making nominations even less likely.”   With the Barbie movie left out of certain categories by Academy Award members, Pfannenstiel says it is likely that there will be fewer movies that tell stories such as Barbie’s. Stories are less likely to be told and funded if they do not perform well in the Academy Awards. This could mean that audiences of color may see less movie representation, and their lived experiences will be left out of the stories being told. Regarding “Barbie,” Pfannenstiel admits that “the Barbie snub highlights that bright, vibrant, upbeat stories that develop rich stories on complex topics might not be made in the future.”    Ryan Gosling, supporting actor to Robbie, publicly announced his disappointment in receiving an Oscar nomination while his female counterparts did not. While the internet praised Gosling for speaking out and defending the integrity of the movie, Pfannenstiel worries that his statement may have overshadowed America Ferrera, an actress of color, and her Oscar nomination, “I think Gosling had every right and responsibility to release a statement, and very rightly drew attention to Ferrera’s nomination. But I think he also drew attention away from Ferrera and how important her no […] “Seeing Pink: Barbie, the Oscars & Online Discourse”

Sorority Celebrates 50th Anniversary Members past and present of Millersville’s Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Lambda Gamma chapter celebrated its 50th anniversary late this February to commemorate the original chartering date of Feb. 23, 1974. The University’s chapter made Millersville history as the first national African American sorority and the first national sorority chartered on campus. The festivities will continue throughout the year, including a reunion that will be hosted during Homecoming this September. As part of the celebration, the Deltas hosted an open event on the history of the sorority with a private reception and banquet that recognized the 10 charter members and Delta sorority sisters. They also held a free and public event that celebrated 50 years of membership, followed by “Paint the City Red,” where members donned the sorority’s signature colors – crimson and cream – and ended the night with a community service project at a local shelter for women. Delta Sigma Theta is a core chapter that shares membership between Millersville University and Franklin & Marshall College, with F&M student Dejah Broadway serving as the current chapter president. Internationally, the sorority has a membership of over 300,000 and has more than 3,000 chapters worldwide with a focus on serving the community. The organization’s core values are scholarship, service, sisterhood and social action. Alumna Sandra Brown, charter member and the first president of the chapter, says that chartering the first National African American sorority was “a very new phenomenon,” in 1974. “Black fraternities and sororities did not exist at Millersville at the time,” she explains. “We sought a sorority that aimed to empower black female students with the support of our Millersville community to nurture academic excellence. We knew that membership in the sorority would provide students with guidance and support.” “The 50th anniversary is significant because it points to the fortitude of its membership across 50 years,” says Denise Chandler, a 1980 graduate and chapter advisory team. “It points to the commitment of countless women who have obtained membership and the years of service given to the Millersville community.” Some of the services the Millersville chapter of the sorority provided recently include clothing and school supply drives, forum and panel discussions, vendor fairs, interview skill sessions and more. To learn more about joining the sorority, interested students can attend the annual rush session. Initiates are required to provide evidence of public services and letters of recommendation. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. continues to have an active presence across both the Millersville and Franklin & Marshall campuses. For more information on the Lambda Gamma chapter, contact Broadway at dbroadwa@fandm.edu or follow them on Instagram at @lg_dst. Why join? “Sisterhood,” says Brown. “The sorority life provides opportunities to experience leadership inside sisterhood and out that teach about responsibility, communication and organization. Delta sorority can also benefit members pr […] “Sorority Celebrates 50th Anniversary”

Celebrating Women's History Month at MU To celebrate Women’s History Month this March and International Women’s Day on March 8, Millersville University is set to host a series of events honoring the vital role women have played throughout history. Celebrations began at Millersville on March 1 with the First Friday performance, “Thunda N’ Mimosas: This One’s for the Girls,” a poetry showcase and open mic presented by Thunda Khatt in Steinman Hall. Millersville’s Title IX Office will host educational events for students, faculty and staff from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Student Memorial Center Atrium on the following dates: March 12: Learn about the women who influenced the creation of Title IX. March 19: Learn about Women’s History Month. March 26: Learn about influential women in history. On March 22, the President’s Commission on the Status of Women will host a free event for the public in Biemesderfer Hall at the Winter Visual Performing Arts Center. Free childcare will be provided for attendees by MU Early Childhood Organization. 5 to 7 p.m.: Shop womxn-owned businesses, connect with local community groups, and the first 300 guests will receive food from food trucks. 7 to 8:15 p.m.: Listen to Theodora Talks from Magisterial District Judge and 2016 alumna Jodie Richardson, County Commissioner Alice Yoder and Franklin & Marshall College’s Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Gretchel Hathaway. Performances by: The Imani African Dance Company, Ballet Folklorico by Elcy Reynoso and an acapella performance by Millersville student organization, Ville Harmonics. According to the National Women’s History Muesum, the recognition of Women’s History Month traces back to Santa Rosa, California, where the Education Task Force of the Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women launched a “Women’s History Week” celebration in 1978. This initiative, held during the week of March 8 to align with International Women’s Day, quickly gained momentum and the following year, communities across the nation began organizing their own events. By 1980, the movement garnered significant support which lead to a successful campaign for national recognition of the week. Beginning in 1995 and continuing until today, each president of the United States has issued a proclamation declaring March Women’s History Month. For a full list of events on and around campus to celebrate Women’s History Month, visit the Events Ca […] “Celebrating Women’s History Month at MU”

MU's Surprising Connection to “Oppenheimer” What do Millersville University and the Oscar-nominated “Oppenheimer” have in common? Dr. Ward V. Evans, a former Millersville student, was involved in the security clearance hearing of J. Robert Oppenheimer and portrayed as such in the blockbuster 2023 film.   A Lancaster County native born in Rawlinsville, Evans started his academic career in the year 1900 at Millersville University, then called the Millersville State Normal School. After completing several courses, he then earned a B.A. from Franklin & Marshall College and a Ph.D. from Columbia University. Evans went on to become a faculty member at Northwestern University, teaching chemistry from 1916-1945, and then taught at Loyola University Chicago from 1947-1951.   What Evans is most known for is his relation to Oppenheimer, the man who directed the Manhattan Project during World War II and is regarded as “the father of the atomic bomb.” During the 1950s, a security hearing was held by the United States Atomic Energy Commission to investigate Oppenheimer’s background and associations as someone who held a Q clearance and, therefore, could access restricted data.   While serving as chair of the chemistry department of Northwestern University, Evans was one of just three people to serve on the panel, which was responsible for the final decision regarding his clearance. Serving alongside Gordon Gray, president of the University of North Carolina, and Thomas A. Morgan, a retired industrialist, the panel was tasked with listening to and reading testimonies about Oppenheimer’s loyalty to the U. S.  One of the primary issues brought up in Oppenheimer’s hearing was his past affiliation with the Communist Party, though he was never a member, and left-wing political affiliations. Oppenheimer was accused of being an agent of the Soviet Union and purposefully hindering the U.S. government’s development of the bomb. His security clearance hearing lasted about four weeks, with Oppenheimer testifying for a total of 27 hours.   After the lengthy process, a decision was reached: two out of three of the panelists decided that Oppenheimer’s clearance should be revoked. The lone dissenter was Evans, who found that Oppenheimer’s affiliations didn’t directly indicate disloyalty and felt quite strongly about this stance. He was quoted as saying that the failure to clear Oppenheimer would become “a black mark on the escutcheon of our country.”  Evans added that Oppenheimer, “did his job in a thorough and painstaking manner. There is not the slightest vestige of information before this board that would indicate that Dr. Oppenheimer is not a loyal citizen of this country.”  After suffering a stroke at his home in Fishing Creek, Evans passed away in Lancaster in 1957. He was brought to life in “Oppenheimer” by actor John Gowans, who has starred in numerous film and TV projects over the years, including “Star Trek: The Motion Picture,” “Dallas,” “Charmed,” “Big Love,” and many more.   In a phone interview with Gowans, he shared his experience of playing Evans on the big screen. The Los Angeles-based actor, who has 40 years of experience, explains that when he auditioned for the role, he wasn’t even sure what the film was about.   “There was so much secrecy around the film,” he says. “It wasn’t even called ‘Oppenheimer’ at that time. It was called ‘Gadget,’” a reference, he explains, to the nickname of the first atomic bomb. Even the script and merchandise given to the cast and crew as gifts carried the name.   Gowans’ portion of the project was filmed near the very end of production over just seven days. They shot for 12 to 14 hours at a time in an old city office building in Alhambra, Ca. Was Gowan’s persuaded to see Evans’ point of view during the hearing? “Just watching Cillian (Murphy) act, you had to the side with the guy,” says Gowans with a laugh. “I was glad I had the opportunity to be the one to say, ‘Ok.’”  During filming, actors were asked to stay in the small office room, so Gowans was a first-hand witness to the A-lister actors’ performances. “Rarely did anyone need more than two or three takes, which is very unusual,” he shares. “They were very prepared and professional. The scenes I was part of were also very intense. And the actor, Jason Clarke, who played special counsel Roger Robb, was so intense. I definitely felt that tension.”   Gowans worked under the supervision of acclaimed director Christopher Nolan and can be seen throughout the film in the background of the hearing, sometimes with a notepad in hand. In between takes, Nolan looked over his shoulder and saw some of Gowans’ doodles and said, “I see you’re paying attention.” Shortly after, Gowans’ pad was replaced by a new one with notes Evans’ might have penned himself during the hearing.   The critical success of the film came as a happy surprise to Gowans. “In any film that you’re in, there are so many fingers in the pie. That any film gets made is almost a miracle,” he shares. “I’ve never been in a film that was up for an Academy Award. It’s exciting just to be a part of it.”  In addition to the creation of the atomic bomb, Nolan’s latest film takes an in-depth and intense look at this security clearance hearing. If you’re watching (or rewatching) “Oppenheimer” this Oscars season, keep an eye out for this significant Marauder.   Sources  Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. “J. Robert Oppenheimer security hearing”. Encyclopedia Britannica, 24 Jul. 2023, http://www.britannica.com/event/J-Robert-Oppenheimer-security-hearing.   “DR. WARD EVANS, CHEMIST, IS DEAD; Loyola of Chicago Professor Who Ruled for Oppenheimer in Security Case Was 74.” New York Times, 3 Aug. 1957, p. 11.   “John Gowans.” IMDb. w […] “MU’s Surprising Connection to “Oppenheimer””

How MU Raised $826,634 for Students in 24 Hrs The final number is in for the 2024 One Day Give. In its 11th year, this fundraiser raised $826,634 in just 24 hours from 2,276 gifts. With these donations, Millersville will support student scholarships, athletics, student experiences and much more. For the past several years, the University released an exclusive design of a pair of socks as an incentive to mark the occasion. This year’s socks featured the University’s beloved swans, Miller and S’Ville.   All funds will directly impact student experiences both now and in the future. “The ripples of generosity created by those who donated during the 2024 One Day Give online fundraising event will surely be felt by Marauders far into the future,” says Dr. Daniel A Wubah, president of Millersville University. “There are not enough words to express my deepest gratitude to all who gave. We are thankful for the support to the community.”   To learn more about One Day Give and to save the date for next year’s event, visit https://www.millers […] “How MU Raised 6,634 for Students in 24 Hrs”

Show Your Love to MU on Feb. 14 After last year’s successful annual online day of giving that raised $582,465 for student scholarships, athletics and more, One Day Give will return to Millersville University this Valentine’s Day. In keeping with the event’s theme to “give to what you love,” make a donation to Millersville on Feb. 14 by visiting millersville.edu/onedaygive.  The campus community and friends of the University are encouraged to donate to school programs, athletic teams, academic departments, or specific funds. Donors may designate their gifts to any area of interest and all contributions will go directly to the donor’s preferred area. Participants may make donations online or by phone at 717-871-7520.  “Each year, we are humbled by the outpouring of generosity we receive from the community who demonstrate how invested they are in the success of our students by making donations during the One Day Give,” says Heather Morris, interim director of philanthropic giving at MU. “The impact you make with a gift to Millersville on February 14 will impact generations of Marauders.”   The fundraiser, which begins at midnight and ends at midnight, will feature numerous matching challenges and giving incentives throughout the day, including the return of the limited-edition One Day Give socks. MU students can get a pair of socks with a donation of $10 and current and retired faculty and staff can receive the same gift with a donation of $20 or m […] “Show Your Love to MU on Feb. 14”

Why I Give: Dr. Dennis Denenberg There are two topics that almost always surface when speaking with Dr. Dennis Denenberg: his passion for breast health and his gardens. Both topics stem from his love of heroes. Denenberg, who had a long career in education, including as a professor at Millersville, spent almost 20 years as a nationally known speaker, talking about real-life heroes and their importance to kids and adults. Two of his real-life heroes include his sister, Diana Denenberg Durand, who graciously fought a battle with breast cancer for 18 years, and former U.S. President Thomas Jefferson. Diana was the impetus for Dennis to start the Breast Cancer Awareness Program at Millersville University through an endowment. The program includes “Breast-A-Ville,” an annual event to educate students of the importance of breast health and breast cancer awareness and prevention. It also includes the Diana Denenberg Durand Spirit Garden and Statue, located at the University’s Stayer Hall, which was dedicated in 2007 in honor of Diana. And “Diana’s Dreamers: Determined to Defeat Breast Cancer” is an endowment set up through the Millersville University Foundation to raise awareness among young women and men about breast cancer and breast health. In 2016, Denenberg received the “Honorary Alumni Award” from the University’s Alumni Association. In honoring him, they said, “Dr. Denenberg has earned the title of a hero in influencing hundreds or maybe thousands of Millersville education students over his 15-year tenure (1987-2002) as a professor in the School of Education. Many of these students have benefited from the groundbreaking ‘Hooray for Heroes’ program he initiated while at Millersville.” “Everyone needs a hero, someone to look up to. There are heroes all around us, in our communities and throughout history,” says Denenberg. One of his Millersville students, Lynette Leaman Brenneman ’97, went on to become a teacher and recently spoke about Denenberg’s impact on her. “Dr. Denenberg taught us how he wanted us to teach our own students,” says Brenneman. “I still remember one day he came to class wearing a historical hat. More than almost any other professor, Dr. Denenberg influenced me in how I taught day to day during the 12 years I taught in my third-grade classroom. I focused on the heroes of Lancaster when I taught my Lancaster County unit in third grade.” The Hilda and David Denenberg Student Lounge in Millersville University’s Stayer Education Building was established by Denenberg to honor his mom and dad, “who kept their vow never to say an unkind word to one another in front of their children.” The lounge features memorabilia from the Denenberg family history. Dennis Denenberg is now at the stage in his life where he is deciding who he wants his belongings to go to. One of the reasons Thomas Jefferson was a hero to him is because he loved to garden. Denenberg has an acre of gardens that he lovingly devotes to flowers and special features. Denenberg has put in his will that the acre of gardens and his house will be given to the Millersville University Foundation. The Foundation is a separate entity from the University, and its mission is to manage and invest endowed gifts for the University. Many visitors consider the all-pink garden dedicated to breast cancer survivors to be their favorite spot. The sign, designed by Matt Patek, displays a quote from the song entitled “Fighter” by Millersville alumna Liz Fulmer. “You won’t ever see her giving up ’cause she is a fighter” was written to honor Diana. Of course, the Gardens of Oz showcase the owner’s love of “The Wizard of Oz.” There’s the yellow brick road leading to Emerald City and Toto’s dressing room – you can peer in through the roof to see what the movie star has in his personal canine collection. There are many other features: two ponds, the Mardi Gras tree, “Mama” Jade (65 years old) and her family, the shade sails over the hosta bed, the succulent tree and huge beds devoted to particular types of flowers. In addition to his house and gardens, Denenberg’s extensive collection of childhood toys will go to The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York. His massive collection of things from “The Wizard of Oz” will go to the Schreiber Center for Pediatric Development, which helped him with a speech impediment decades ago. Sitting in the midst of his hundreds of flowers, Denenberg, who is now fully recovered from a stroke two years ago, says, “I was blessed with two incredible parents, an amazing sister and a wonderful life. I want to continue to honor Diana and my family through perpetuity, and donating my treasures is one way I can do that. Life […] “Why I Give: Dr. Dennis Denenberg”

Responding to Emergencies […] “Responding to Emergencies”

The Inspirational Journey of a Scientist & University First Lady When Dr. Judith Wubah arrived in 2018 as first lady of Millersville University, one of the first things she realized was that the role of a first lady does not have a job description. After working as a faculty member and administrator in higher education, she had a mindset that the first thing you need to know about a job is what is required of you. “The first year was challenging,” says Judith, “because PASSHE regulations do not allow presidential spouses to work at the same institution. I had to figure out what to do. I can tell you it is a difficult but fulfilling job. I travel with the president to numerous events on and off campus and act as an ambassador for the University at all times. That first year, we traveled to Arizona, California, Florida, Massachusetts, Texas and China to meet with alums. I take care of professional and personal matters so Daniel does not have to worry and can focus on his role as president.” Judith was born in Winneba, in the Central Region of Ghana and met Daniel in 1980 at the University of Cape Coast. “It was not love at first sight. He talked too much,” says Judith. “He sat in front of me in class, and I knocked him on the head during class because he was so talkative.” During the Wubahs’ time at UCC, there were constant political upheavals in Ghana. In 1983, while preparing for their final comprehensive exams, students at all three universities demonstrated against the government. In retaliation, the universities were closed, and students were sent home for 10 months. “When we came back for our final exams in March 1984, Daniel and I formed a study group with our cohort for botany. At our first meeting, I began to see Daniel’s leadership skills based on how he structured the group. At our next meeting, it was obvious that the student scheduled to present had not prepared. We had been given only two months to prepare for exams, so there was no time to lose. That is when Daniel and I decided to meet on our own to study. We were both middle-class kids and more studious than some – and I had the smarts! Daniel was meticulous in his preparations and studying skills, an attribute I liked about him. We were studious, to the point that we could answer every question on the final exams and crushed it! We graduated at the top of our class.” Daniel left for the U.S. in August 1984 to pursue his master’s degree in biology at the University of Akron in Ohio. Judith followed in August 1985, where they worked with the same professor, Dr. Don Ott. She received her master’s degree in biology in 1989. They were married in 1993 in Baltimore. “Our wedding in the U.S. was at the courthouse with my sister-in-law and a family friend as witnesses,” says Judith. “We returned home to Ghana for a full-blown wedding – which was for our parents – the following year. My parents were the ultimate event planners, as this wedding was for their only daughter! I can tell you that my mother had a blast! To this day, I celebrate our first wedding date, and Daniel celebrates our second wedding date.” As the daughter of an Anglican bishop, Judith is a lifelong Episcopalian. Therefore, faith is important to her, and she believes in angels. “Angels have played a large part in my life,” she says. “One angel, Jessie Pervall, saved a spot for me in the Ph.D. program at Thomas Jefferson University when I had to delay acceptance for a year to become a legal U.S. resident.” “The program is designed to train molecular scientists to undertake research in how humans are formed from conception to birth and what cellular or metabolic pathways are disrupted, leading to birth defects,” says Judith. “It’s mind-boggling how many processes can go wrong during pregnancy, but most of the time, we end up with a healthy human.” She then started a two-year postdoctoral program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Working in the lab of Dr. Chuck Bieberich, whom Judith calls another one of her angels, she studied the molecular aspects of prostate development and prostate cancer. In the second year of her postdoc, the Wubahs moved to James Madison University. The Wubahs continued to move as Daniel climbed the academic administrative ladder.  “I was a faculty member at JMU and later at the University of Florida Medical School. I loved working with students in the lab,” says Judith.   From Florida, the couple moved to Virginia Tech, and Judith became the founding director of the Office of Health Professions Advising. The office focused on advising and preparing students interested in health-related careers. “We arranged mock interviews on campus, where I got retired VT professors and local health professionals to serve on panels. It was the most rewarding job I have ever had.” Fast-forward to 2013, when Daniel became provost, and the family moved to Washington and Lee University in Virginia. At W&L, Judith was appointed the Associate Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations, responsible for the management of externally funded grants. While at W&L, Daniel became a tribal king (Toapentenhene) at Breman Asikuma in the Central Region of Ghana. “I never knew he was going to be king,” says Judith. “I had some inkling of his royal lineage, but his mother was initially against his ascending to the throne. When his uncle died, the throne passed on to Daniel. My other title, therefore, is Nanayere (literal translation: “the king’s wife”), where my role is similar to first lady responsibilities, ensuring that everything is carried out as needed in order for Daniel to perform his duties as the king. I also have the responsibility of leading the women in the tribe, and so we have set up a microfinance program for them.” Judith says they both consider the U.S. as home. “We’ve lived here longer than our birthplace of Ghana. Both daughters and our two grandchildre […] “The Inspirational Journey of a Scientist & University First Lady”

STEM Partnerships Provide Hands-On Experience One of the best ways for students to learn more about their field of interest is through real-world, hands-on experiences. Thanks to corporate partnerships, Millersville University STEM students now have access to even more opportunities to grow and learn. Last spring, the University announced its partnership with Lampire Biological Laboratories, an international biotech life science firm that creates and supplies biological reagents for the diagnostic and pharmaceutical industries. In addition to providing MU’s biology, chemistry and biochemistry faculty with opportunities for educational programming, two students were selected as interns to help with Lampire’s work. Danielle Nietupski, a junior biology major with a concentration in molecular biology, and Sarah Abrahem, a junior biology major were the two students selected as Lampire interns. Nietupski was interested in the opportunity after a campus visit from Lampire. “I found out about this internship by attending a colloquium where Lampire shared what their company was about as well as their new partnership with the University. There was an application process, which consisted of an interview and then a walkthrough of the lab space.” Much of her work with Lampire involves performing ELISA tests, a laboratory technique that detects and counts different antibodies, antigens, proteins and hormones in bodily fluid samples. “As an intern, I run ELISA tests on different samples, sometimes testing the reactivity of antigen to an antibody, or looking to see if an antibody can neutralize its target.” Additionally, Nietupski works closely with Lampire’s Dr. Donna Cartledge-Wolf as they conduct neutralizing tests with infectious particles like influenza and HSV-1. “We will also be creating a DNA vector that expresses a green fluorescent protein in mammalian cells for an upcoming project.” Nietupski says her work with Lampire varies day to day, and combined with her previous courses at Millersville, she’s learning a lot about her field. “Taking cell biology has helped me in understanding how different biological components interact with each other. For example, when moving cells to another flask, an enzyme must be added to release the cells by cleaving proteins that hold the cells to the flask and to each other. “The most rewarding aspect of the internship is getting to see into the biotechnology industry,” Nietupski says. “Not only have I learned a lot about different techniques and procedures from Dr. Cartledge-Wolf, but I have also seen how different experiments are translated into services for clients of Lampire.” Nietupski adds, “I am very grateful for this opportunity; I am excited to be a part of this partnership with Lampire and Millersville. I have learned a lot so far from Dr. Cartledge-Wolf, and I am excited to continue gaining knowledge about the biotechnology industry.” Dr. Marc Harris, dean of the College of Science and Technology, adds that these kinds of partnerships align with the core mission of the College. “The SCTE educational promise is to provide all students with the depth and breadth of education and the hands-on learning needed for success in contemporary fields of science and technology,” he says. Harris concludes, “Industry partnerships, like with Lampire, will enhance our abilities to conduct cutting-edge research with students, leading to phenomenal student learning outcomes for students […] “STEM Partnerships Provide Hands-On Experience”

The Winding Road to Finding Your Path College is an important time of self-discovery. Some students know right from the get-go what they want to study and who they want to be: a nurse, a teacher, or maybe even a meteorologist. For others, the road is a bit more winding. Here, Millersville alumni share how they started out on our campus and where they ultimately ended up in their professional careers. From getting a degree in anthropology to becoming a candlemaker or going from therapist to owning a business, it’s been quite a journey for this group of grads. JORDAN EVANGELISTA ’13, ’15M: I received my undergraduate degree in psychology in 2013 and a master’s degree in clinical psychology in 2015. Since then, my career path has taken many twists and turns. I started out utilizing my degree as a mental health therapist. Although I was putting my degree to good use, I felt drawn to the higher education world, which I was exposed to during my graduate assistant position in the registrar’s office at Millersville. I eventually made the transition to higher education and started working at Lebanon Valley College. Several years later, life took another turn. My husband and I started a family in March of 2019 and decided to start a business soon after in order to provide more flexibility and possibilities for our daughter. We are now the proud owners of HQ Water Solutions, a water treatment company in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. I left the higher education world and joined the business full-time in 2023, and we just reached $1 million in sales. We now have two daughters, business is booming, and we live a life full of purpose and joy. Although it wasn’t the path I envisioned, it’s a path I am beyond grateful for. It’s a path that wouldn’t have been possible without my education at Millersville University. BECKY FUNK ‘99, ‘04M: I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in math education in 1999 and earned my master’s in math education in 2004.  I had wanted to be a teacher all my life and loved every minute of working with the students at my first job at a local high school. From there I taught for several years at a local college. I quit my teaching job to stay home and focus on my own boys but knew I wanted to get back into the workforce when they were older. When that time came, I wanted a career that gave me flexibility while allowing me to work with teens. A friend of mine suggested life coaching. I never saw myself owning my own business, but being a certified confidence coach allows me to do what I truly love: helping teen girls and young women love who they see when they look in the mirror. The educational and psychological components of my degrees still help me in this new career path. CATHERINE HOGUE ‘13: When I first became a Marauder, I had high hopes of being a high school English teacher. However, two years into my college education, I realized that teaching was not the right path for me, so I dropped the education portion of my degree and completed my B.A. in English, thinking I would go the reporting and journalism route. While I did a bit of reporting for some local newspapers during college and after graduation, I fell into a digital and social media marketing role with a professional sports team in Charlotte, North Carolina. It turned out to be a slippery slope because I have stuck with that career, going from professional sports to a small family business and now, into higher education, serving as the digital ad and social media content creator at Lancaster Bible College SANDIE KRAMER ’89: As a freshman, I entered MU as an early education major and quickly learned that being a teacher was not for me, but I did enjoy reading and writing. I majored in speech communications with a minor in public relations. I graduated and was offered a job at a local Bucks County radio station, making $5 an hour. As much fun as that was, I could make $9 an hour as a temp at a pharmaceutical company in their accounts payable department. I did not want to work in finance the rest of my life – my degree was in communications, so I went on and worked to get my master’s in instructional design (adult education), which felt kind of full circle. Then life got in the way; I had two kids and became a stay-at-home mom. One day my husband spoke with our tax accountant, and she explained that she was opening her own business and was looking to hire someone. My husband said, “Sandie is looking for a job!” and the rest is history. I have been a tax accountant for 20 years now at the same company and have loved every minute of it. JORDAN KUHNS ’12: It took radical acceptance to understand that my dream job spiraled into a nightmare. I spent my undergraduate years at Millersville preparing for a career in the sports broadcasting field. All told, I spent 10 years in the industry. The lifestyle became increasingly unstable and unsustainable the more time I devoted to the craft. I had to adapt and change my goals. I spent a few months after the dust settled charting my new course. I chose to serve as a multimedia professional for a behavioral school. I knew I possessed the qualifications to take this position and run with it. One year into this life change has proven that my decision was the right one. TYLER LONGENECKER ’11: I’m a 2011 Millersville graduate with a degree in secondary education (social studies & economics). I was initially drawn to connecting with struggling students and fostering interactive learning, and Millersville empowered me to teach various social studies subjects to diverse age groups. The relationships and support from several Millersville professors challenged me to lead with energy and passion. Eventually transitioning to the sales industry, I found similarities between teaching and selling, adapting to different products and audiences. Millersville underscored the significance of interpersonal connections in my career, and my time on campus proved to be an enormous building block for the career I didn’t know I would follow. With several promotions, I discovered my passion and now serve as a sales leader in an infection prevention company prioritizing healthcare safety. I’ve been mentored, mentored others, and now lead a national sales team for a community-oriented organization. MISSY MCKELVEY ’93: After getting married and moving to Philadelphia, I knew I did not want to teach. I was hired for customer service. With my degree in math, they put me in charge of accounting items such as credit memos and chargeback clearing. This led to my getting an MBA in accounting from La Salle University. I took time off to have kids and moved to Reading, Pennsylvania. I went back to work as a staff accountant with Brentwood Industries. They were converting their system and found themselves in need of a financial person who understood the computer side as well. I transitioned into an IT role, where I learned the backside of a software package used to track and plan resources called Enterprise Resource Planning. I now work as a consultant implementing and training on the SyteLine ERP system. It uses both the teaching side and the logic side from my original degree in secondary mathematics education. ADAM MENTZER ’05, ’09M: I obtained my license in social work in 2013 and worked as a school social worker for a private school until the pandemic shutdown of Pennsylvania schools in March 2020. In August 2020, I started my own handyman business, and in April 2021, I made it an official LLC. I now have a crew of eight, and we serve three counties as Adam’s Handyman and Contracting. I absolutely love the change from social work to home improvement contractor. I am able to better provide for my family, and having a crew of skilled workers in their respective fields allows me more time off than a social worker would have. ANDREW NEWELL ’12: After graduating from Millersville in 2012 with a computer science degree, I briefly ventured into website design and Android app development. However, when I relocated to Richmond, Virginia, in 2013 with just $50, necessity led me to thrifting. Balancing retail jobs, I reinvested my earnings from reselling thrifted items. By 2015, I committed full-time to this enterprise, later diversifying into selling unclaimed mail. My passion project “Smalls” emerged in 2021 as a retail store echoing Millersville’s black-and-gold color scheme. Today, in 2023, we flourish in a 10,000-sq.-ft. space. My Millersville education was pivotal in my ability to adapt and seize diverse opportunities. Moreover, my store, while a hub for unique finds, also showcases my love for nature photography, particularly from my national park explorations. Every photo sold supports the National Park Foundation. From computer science to “Smalls,” my journey epitomizes the versatility a Millersville education offers. HARMONY TODD ’12: I graduated from Millersville University in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in anthropology with a focus on archaeology. I went on to graduate school at Arcadia University, where I received my master’s in international peace and conflict resolution in 2014. It was that summer after I finished college that I began exploring old hobbies, including candlemaking. What started as a hobby grew into a small business and a table at the Trenton Farmers Market in New Jersey. My plan to continue on with my doctorate in international relations was completely blindsided by all the fun I was having while challenging myself to learn business and marketing skills. My company, Old Soul Artisan, eventually grew into a thriving candle business, where I now spend my days developing candle fragrances inspired by literature, folklore and fairy tales. Entrepreneurship is challenging, but the artistic freedom it allows me is worth all the hard work. NELLY VELEZ ’13: I am forever #MUPROUD. I graduated in May 2013 with a bachelor’s in English education. I was unable to find a local teaching position that year but was blessed with the opportunity to work for a foster care agency while studying finance in the evenings and getting licensed for financial services. I became very curious about how my 401k and investments worked, since I never had the opportunity to take a financial course. I met my husband in 2015, and together, we opened up our own financial branch with over 65 licensed agents who we mentor and work alongside each and every day. We’ve helped the families we serve become debt-free, invest for retirement, get preapproved for mortgages as well as become properly protected to be able to leave a legacy for […] “The Winding Road to Finding Your Path”

Lifesaving NARCAN® Trainings on Campus In response to the growing concern of opioid overdoses, Millersville University implemented preventative safety measures around campus. According to the 911 calls, 1,682 suspected overdoses were reported in 2022. NARCAN® (Naloxone HCl) Nasal Spray is an emergency treatment of possible opioid overdoses that, if administered immediately, temporarily reverses opioid overdoses. NARCAN® does not replace medical attention. In case of an opioid emergency, call 911. An upcoming NARCAN ® training session for Millersville students, faculty and staff, is scheduled for Tuesday, December 5, from 9-10 a.m. in room 24 of the Student Memorial Center. To prioritize the health and safety of its students, Millersville partnered with Lancaster Joining Forces to set up emergency NARCAN® boxes near every AED station on campus. NARCAN® sprays are also available for free at the Cumberland House and Health Services in the Witmer Building. During this fall semester, multiple NARCAN® training courses were conducted on campus, led by Blueprints Recovery, to teach students, staff and faculty how to administer the medication to a person suspected of overdosing. Margaret Thorwart, director of the Center of Health Education and Promotion, urges Millersville students to attend an upcoming winter or spring NARCAN® training. “Come learn about what NARCAN® is, how to use it, and leave with a free NARCAN® kit. Blueprints Recovery is coming to campus to host NARCAN® training open to all students, faculty and staff. You will learn about opioid abuse and trends and understand/debunk the negative stigma surrounding NARCAN® accessibility. You will leave prepared to handle an opioid overdose emergency. NARCAN® Kits include two doses of Naloxone, gloves, CPR shield, instructions on how to use and support services/resources.” More NARCAN® training will occur monthly in the spring ’24 semester. When asked why attending NARCAN® training is essential for Millersville students, Thorwart responds that, “The Millersville University Alcohol and Other Drug Task Force seeks to lead a movement at MU to provide knowledge and training regarding Naloxone as well as make NARCAN® widely accessible in case of emergency. Through the initiative, MU also seeks to provide comprehensive prevention education regarding the overdose crisis, the influx of fentanyl and how to prevent overdose. Naloxone is not intended just for law enforcement or first responders, but for anyone who knows someone who uses prescription or illicit opioids and members of the community who can act as bystanders if an overdose event were to occur.” Millersville is taking preventative measures, equipping its students, staff and faculty with the tools to combat the opioid and Fentanyl crisis. Spring NARCAN® training dates are soon to be announced. Learn more through Millersville’s Center for Health Education and Promotion: https://www.millersville. […] “Lifesaving NARCAN® Trainings on Campus”

Here’s What the MU Community is Thankful For As Thanksgiving is quickly approaching, the Millersville University community is sharing what they are thankful for this year. From faculty and staff to students, check out what they had to say. “I am thankful I get to work with young people who come to Millersville to pursue their dreams. Our students are earnest, diligent, kind-hearted, and open-minded.  They are good and they fill me with hope about the future.” – Dr. Robyn Davis, Chair of the History Department “I am thankful for a healthy family and the opportunity to once again have Thanksgiving lunch with my in-laws and dinner with my parents. It makes for a very “full” day, but I would not miss it for the world.” – Dr. Stacey Irwin, Professor of Communication and Theatre “I am thankful, of course, for my husband and kids, and adorable 8-year-old Golden Retriever, Hunter. I am very thankful that my mother recovered from a heart attack in late March and was able to celebrate her 90th birthday in October! At the MU level, I am grateful for the students who allow me to be a part of their educational journey to support them in how they want to impact their community.” – Dr. Laura Granruth, Associate Professor of Social Work “I am thankful for my students and for the many opportunities I have to mentor them and also to learn from them. We have a vibrant community of learners at MU!” – Dr. Charlton Wolfgang, Director of the Honors College “Starting the MU Social Work Program Fall of 2024!”- Lacee Mill (@lacemill8) “To have graduated in May and have a full-time teaching job.” – Jake (@big_snell_6565) “The ability to get a job in my field after graduating in May.” – Carly Minnich (@carly.t.m) “The brothers of Phi Delta Theta.” – Ivan (@ivanvela47) “The swans.” – Valentina Zamora (@valentinaz918) “Ville Cheer.” – @neliannn “My amazing professors at MU” – Victoria Lafferty (@v_lafferty) “I am most thankful for my family and our health. We are extremely blessed and fortunate. I am also thankful for the opportunity to coach and build relationships with the fine men in our wrestling program” – Gerard Boland, MU Wrestling coach “I am thankful for the love and support of my family and friends. I am thankful I work at an institution with such amazing students!” Dr. A. Nicole Pfannenstiel, Ass […] “Here’s What the MU Community is Thankful For”

The ’Ville’s Lawyers & Judges What can you do with a degree in Government, Policy, and Law from Millersville University? How about becoming a district attorney? A partner at a law firm? Or even a judge? Graduates of Millersville University’s department have gone on to receive J.D.s and graduate degrees from top-ranked law schools, including Cornell University, Georgetown University, Harvard University and the London School of Economics. Others have used their research and analytical skills from the program for careers in education, politics and public service. “While there is no single path to prepare students for a legal education or career in law or a law-related field, the bachelor’s in government with a concentration in pre-law firmly positions students to do so,” says Dr. Richard A. Glenn, professor and chair of Government, Policy, and Law. “The pre-law option is intended for students who are interested in the formal study of law, attending law school and pursuing a career in law.” Here we meet some of the alums who have become or will become lawyers and judges. HEATHER ADAMS ’94, DISTRICT ATTORNEY OF LANCASTER COUNTY Heather Adams received her bachelor’s in political science from Millersville and went on to receive her J.D. from Widener University School of Law. One of her favorite memories is classes with Dr. Bookmiller, “whose love of teaching was evident in every class.” What’s the most challenging and rewarding part of your job? As an elected official and chief law enforcement officer for the county of Lancaster, it is rewarding to impact the broader goals of the criminal justice system and the administration of criminal justice here in Lancaster County. Implementing and supporting programs that impact public safety from many different angles is essential to addressing problems that lead to or result from criminal activity. It can be challenging to handle the varied responsibilities of this position: legal decisions, media inquiries and, as a trained lawyer, managing an 80-person office with different skill sets and responsibilities. However, I have a great team behind me! What inspired you to work in this field, and why do you stay? I knew that to be able to argue a case before a jury, I would need to have conviction in my position, and when starting my career, I identified strongly with the role of the prosecutor – that is, “to seek justice within the bounds of the law and not merely to convict.” I have always had great pride in this career and feel privileged to say, “I represent the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.” Advice for current students? Make the most of your education, and challenge yourself while at MU. My class selection at MU thoroughly prepared me for the rigors of law school, and for that, I am very grateful. ALYSON CROSE ’23, RECENT ALUM Alyson Crose graduated in May as a Government, Policy, and Law major, with a pre-law concentration and a minor in English. What’s next? I plan on taking the next year to study for the LSAT and prepare my application materials to apply for law school for fall 2024. I recently accepted a job as a part-time bookseller at Bethany Beach Books, an independently owned bookstore in Bethany Beach, Delaware. Favorite professor? My favorite was Dr. Glenn. If I hadn’t taken his GOVT 412 class on a whim and discovered how much I enjoyed constitutional law, I’m not sure I would have met the friends I have today or realized my potential as a future law student. Dr. Glenn has supported me throughout the past three semesters and has pushed me to be a better student than I thought I could be. In studying Government, Policy, and Law, one of the most challenging aspects has been learning to put aside my personal political beliefs to understand the perspectives of others. I was inspired to switch my English major to Government, Policy, and Law after taking Dr. Glenn’s GOVT 412 class and learning about the Supreme Court cases shaping the fundamental rights and liberties we enjoy today. Particularly, I was inspired to learn more about women’s rights, which led to me doing an independent study on the evolution of women’s reproductive rights from Roe v. Wade (1973) to Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (2022). Advice for current students? For students considering a major in Government, Policy, and Law, I would advise them to get to know all the amazing professors in the department at Millersville University. They are all there to help you in the best ways they can and have a genuine passion for what they do. DANIEL T. DESMOND ’06, PARTNER AT BARLEY SNYDER IN LANCASTER Daniel Desmond, a Lancaster native who went to J. P. McCaskey, received his bachelor’s in government and political affairs from Millersville and his J.D. from Temple. He’s married to Amy Desmond ’07, and they have two daughters. As a partner at Barley Snyder, Desmond specializes in business and municipal law. Favorite memory and/or professor at Millersville? Dr. Glenn was my favorite professor. One memory that sticks with me is that I came to Millersville as a transfer student from a much different school and major, and I wasn’t sure what to do after college, but his classes made me want to go to law school and pursue the career I am in today. Something clicked with me there, and I am glad I followed my intuition. What’s the most challenging and rewarding part of your job? I find that in most things I do, the challenge is the reward. As an attorney, you’re a problem solver first and foremost. It’s a rewarding feeling when you’ve helped solve a complicated situation or helped put together a deal with many obstacles. What inspired you to work in this field, and why do you stay? Dr. Glenn and the government department certainly get credit for getting me to law school, but the Barley Snyder attorneys I worked with when I graduated from law school are what made me decide to be a business attorney and focus on that area of law. They do great work and are people with meaningful lives outside of work. I stay because I get to work on matters that contribute to my community and hometown positively, and I’m able to provide a good life for my family. Advice for current students? Take the time to make lasting relationships with your friends and professors in college. They are your future coworkers, clients, neighbors, groomsmen, bridesmaids and, in my case, one turned out to be my wife. Academics should come first, but don’t forget to have a social life. Your social skills will often take you as far in life as your professional ones. TASHA R. STOLTZFUS NANKERVILLE ’14, CIVIL LITIGATION ATTORNEY, BARLEY SNYDER Tasha Stoltzfus Nankerville graduated magna cum laude from Millersville, majoring in government and political affairs with a minor in theater. She received her law degree from Villanova University. Favorite memory and/or professor at Millersville? My favorite professor is easy: Dr. Richard Glenn. I took all the courses he offered. His classes challenged me more than any others, and I thrived on that challenge. I felt my brain growing and connecting concepts in a way it never had before. My favorite memory was being a part of the All Campus Musical Organization stage production of “Legally Blonde – The Musical.” I relished working tirelessly with other students to stage the production (completely student-run) and having a nonacademic creative outlet!” What’s the most challenging and rewarding part of your job? I’ve been working as an attorney for less than a year, so I don’t yet know all the challenges or rewards of this profession. Nevertheless, currently, the most challenging part of the job is that every day I am forced to learn something new. For certain legal matters, there is a clear path for moving forward. For many other legal matters, there is no such path. I’ve also had the opportunity to do pro bono (volunteer) legal work for individuals who are undocumented victims of domestic violence, local nonprofits and incarcerated individuals. Providing legal services to individuals with barriers to access justice is the most rewarding part of being a lawyer. What inspired you to work in this field, and why do you stay? At a practical level, Dr. Glenn inspired me to be a lawyer. I had attended NYU as a theater major before transferring to Millersville and intended to pursue a career in the performing arts. Dr. Glenn never discouraged that dream but pulled me aside one day and indicated he thought I had the makings to be a really good lawyer. As a first-generation college student, I had never contemplated law school. I am so grateful Dr. Glenn planted that seed. It led to my working in my dream profession, a dream I didn’t even know I had, when he offered those words of encouragement. I stay because the work of equity and justice is never done, and I want to be a part of creating a world that continually seeks more equity and more justice. Advice for current students? Take the opportunities given to you, and be intentional with how you spend your time. You never know where an opportunity will lead. Take the opportunity to work and get practical experience. Apply yourself. Volunteer at an organization you’re passionate about. Your dream job probably won’t be the first one you get out of college, but search for an organization that aligns with your beliefs and goals. Give yourself time to figure out what you like and don’t like, what you’re good at and not good at, and what the world needs and doesn’t need. If you do so intentionally, your next steps will find you. JENNIFER PONESSA ’08, ASSISTANT DISTRICT ATTORNEY FOR LANCASTER Jennifer Ponessa graduated from Millersville with a double major in political science and psychology and a criminology minor. Her law degree is from Widener University. Favorite memory and/or professor at Millersville? Dr. Richard Glenn was by far my favorite professor. Anyone with hopes to go to law school should take his classes. He uses the Socratic method, which prepared me, above everyone else, for law school. My favorite memory is when I got a 100% on one of his exams, and he said I was his only student ever to achieve that – and I believe that is still true to this day. What’s the most challenging and rewarding part of your job? The most challenging is the constant work and attention needed for every case. You’re in trial so much, there really isn’t much time for anything else, but you must also keep up with other work. It turns into a 24/7 job at times. However, the most rewarding part is making such a huge difference in the lives of victims seeking justice. What your hard work does and brings to these victims is priceless. What inspired you to work in this field, and why do you stay? I always wanted to be a trial attorney and thrive in the courtroom. I also did not want to be a defense attorney because of my morals. I love what I do for the victims of Lancaster County and bringing them the justice that some have waited years for. Advice for current students? Nothing can replace hard work. To achieve your goals, you have to be willing to put in the work and make it happen. JODIE RICHARDSON ’16, MAGISTERIAL DISTRICT JUDGE, THE UNIFIED JUDICIAL SYSTEM OF PENNSYLVANIA Jodie Richardson graduated from Millersville with a bachelor’s in sociology/criminology. She went on to receive her Minor Judiciary Education Board – Magisterial District Judge Training and Certification and Continuing Legal Education. Favorite memory and/or professor at Millersville? I am thankful for my amazing relationships with students, staff, faculty and outside constituents over the years. I am also grateful for those who encouraged and supported me through my dual roles as an employee and college student. The interactions, experiences and opportunities gained at Millersville greatly impacted my life and successes. My graduation day at Millersville still resonates with surreal emotions for me. Spending 23 years at Millersville has been a life blessing. What’s the most challenging and rewarding part of your job? Serving as a Magisterial District Judge is both vigorous and rewarding. Judges must uphold and apply the law and perform all duties of the judicial office fairly and impartially. We make important and difficult decisions on a daily basis that impact the lives of individuals before us, as well as their loved ones. I do not take this position lightly. I uphold the duties of the judiciary with dignity, respect, integrity, and impartiality to all who come before me. I eagerly seek to educate residents on the judicial process, policies, laws, and local ordinances to ensure understanding and gain cooperation and compliance. When necessary and appropriate, I offer specialized programs and services to individuals needing assistance in making better decisions and healthier choices. Through my employment and community involvement, I diligently work to contribute to a safe, strong and vibrant neighborhood for my district and city, one where residents feel a sense of belonging and acceptance. What inspired you to work in this field, and why do you stay? I did not aspire to become a judge. I landed in this career due to the community leaders and residents asking that I consider running for the then-vacant magisterial district judge seat in my district. Advice for current students? Whatever you aspire to do or become, give it your all and do so wholeheartedly. If you find yourself on a path other than what may appear to be the norm, that is okay; never give up. Seek mentors and other sources of help and guidance. Despite any obstacles or hardships, persevere in reaching your dreams/goals. The most treasured reward will come from being resilient and persevering through your struggles. Always allow yourself gratitude in life. CODY WADE ’13, FIRST DEPUTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY FOR LANCASTER COUNTY Cody Wade majored in government and political affairs and philosophy at Millersville and received his law degree from Villanova University. Favorite memory and/or professor at Millersville? My favorite professor was Ralph “Doc Roc” Anttonen, who sadly passed away last year. I was a radio DJ at WIXQ 91.7, and he was the faculty advisor for the station. He inspired countless students to question everything and fight for what you believe in. What’s the most challenging and rewarding part of your job? Jury trials will always be my favorite part of the job. They are a roller coaster of emotions and put all of your advocacy skills and legal training on display. However, as first deputy, I take great pride in seeing the other attorneys in my office develop their litigation skills and achieve justice. What inspired you to work in this field, and why do you stay? I always wanted to help people – so when the stacks of files look like skyscrapers and the to-do list stretches to infinity – I remember that I work for over half a million Lancastrians, and they deserve someone who puts their whole heart into this job. Justice is its own reward. Advice for current students? Joining WIXQ was transformative for me, even though it had nothing to do with my major. Chase your passion, find others who share it, and you’ll learn more than you ever could in a classroom. Millersville’s Department of Government, Policy, and Law offers three majors: a bachelor’s in Government, Policy, and Law; a bachelor’s in Government, Policy, and Law with a concentration in Pre-Law; and a bachelor’s in Secondary […] “The ’Ville’s Lawyers & Judges”

The Importance of Unions as WGA Strikes Continue With Labor Day approaching while multiple on-going strikes are featured in the news, it can be beneficial to review and learn what the functions of a union are and why they may vote to strike. Dr. Kelly Banna, professor of psychology and past president of the Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties Millersville University chapter, explains that one of the main functions of a union is collective bargaining. “Collective bargaining basically grants employees the ability to negotiate working terms and conditions, including salary and pay, at the group rather than at the individual level,” she says. “Employees elect people from their bargaining unit to negotiate with the organization on their behalf. By negotiating in concert, they wield greater power to effect changes that benefit workers, in part because the organization often cannot afford to lose all of its workforce, and in part because employees who work in a collective bargaining environment often negotiate for greater employment security,” Banna continues. One such union at Millersville University is APSCUF, which seeks to ensure fair working conditions for faculty employed within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. Each PASSHE campus has its own local chapter, executive board and representatives. Last month, APSCUF announced that it stands in solidarity with the unions who are currently on strike, including the Writer’s Guild of America and the Screen Actors Guild and American Federation of Television and Radio Artists. The WGA has been on strike since May, with SAG-AFTRA joining in June. The strikes have been high-profile due to the big names involved and for the effects this could have on the film and television industry. “The work stoppage is affecting all aspects of entertainment,” says Dr. Stacey Irwin, professor in the media arts production program. “Historically, we can see from past strikes how the industry has changed. New shows and movies will not be coming out when we expect them. Any work not completed before the strike started is just sitting there in the queue.” “Even nonunion work is stopped or stalled. Freelance work is also affected, and that is a different side of the industry. I think that it will take years to recover.” While some independent films and film festivals can continue under the strike guidelines, movie theaters may begin to feel the effects of the strike as new movies stop releasing. “In most cases, independent films are lower in budget and are not large moneymakers for cast and crew,” Irwin explains. “Movie theatres where festivals are screened are also feeling the strikes, and the independently owned ones will begin to close their doors, because if there are no new movies, theatres are not making money.” “I’m guessing that the nature of entertainment could change quite a bit depending on how long the strikes last. Consumers want choice in their viewing, and producers are not going to be able to deliver new content without WGA and SAG-AFTRA members.” “This absolutely has affected our alumni and faculty in the entertainment industry,” Irwin adds. “We have alumni working in a variety of entertainment industry positions who are looking at their future and wondering, what comes next?” Some of the key issues for both the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes include fair pay and proper residuals for the duration that a media work is available to the audience – something that has changed significantly with the introduction of streaming. The use of AI in writing has also been called into question. “Many professional entertainment writers have practiced writing for many years,” says Irwin. “They started as young writers, were ‘brought up’ in a writer’s room mentorship environment and are still not making a living wage based on contemporary entertainment business models.” “Not everyone can write for entertainment. It is a craft,” she adds. “Writers want their role in the process rewarded. It takes many different kinds of labor to make good entertainment media. Writing is central to this process, and good writing is the gold standard.” Banna says that there are many ways to show support for a union, including refusing to engage in commerce with the relevant companies, walking picket lines or donating money to help fund supplies for striking employees. “When a union voices support during a strike, it carries the weight of the whole membership, and there is strength in numbers,” Banna says. “I cannot speak on behalf of State APSCUF, which has the prerogative to release official statements of support for other striking unions, but in my opinion it’s important to support other unions when they strike for two main reasons,” she concludes. “First, we sympathize with those workers and want to see them treated fairly and with respect, and to see their labor fairly valued. Second, each successful negotiation for one union strengthens the bargaining position of other unions—we want to see them succeed because it increases the likelihood that we will also be succe […] “The Importance of Unions as WGA Strikes Continue”