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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”

Mascot Mash-Up on Campus S […] “Mascot Mash-Up on Campus”

Millersville Grad Student talks Y2K Fashion Out with the old and in with the older – Gen Z is bringing back Y2K fashion. Wide-legged pants, cropped baby tees, butterfly and claw clips and other early 2000s fashion staples are making their way into young adults’ closets. Millersville University’s Yasmeen Bekhit, a graduate student in the school psychology program, was recently featured in an article from the Associate Press about the topic. Bekhit shared her advice and expertise, and since then, the article has been shared in numerous online publications. “I feel super excited to be featured in publications,” Bekhit says. “As a woman who wears the hijab, I value representation of different cultures and backgrounds in the media.” “I remember seeing women wearing the hijab in a Target ad a couple years ago and thinking it was the coolest thing,” she continues. “The opportunity to bring light to my style and the way I wear the hijab was very special to me.” Bekhit shares that early on, her mother inspired her fashion sense. “My mom was the first influence I can remember inspiring me to always dress how I want. The Y2K fashion style influence comes from the nostalgic feelings of the shows I used to love on Disney Channel, music I would listen to and now social media posts on TikTok and Instagram.” Social media has encouraged the style’s return, with #y2kfashion and #y2kaesthetic having 1.7 million and 1.6 million posts on Instagram, respectively. On TikTok, videos marked #y2kfashion have racked up over 2 billion views. “Social media has surely influenced the wave of Y2K, but in general, I think fashion trends never truly die out. It’s more of a cycle, and when more and more people are rotated back in the cycle, we see the fashion styles get labeled as trends until they’re cycled out again,” says Bekhit. “That’s why I wear what I want. Whether it’s ‘trendy’ or not, if I like it, it’ll never be out of style.” When assembling an outfit, Bekhit has a logical first step: she checks the weather. “When it’s warmer out, mesh tops are my go-to piece, because they’re lightweight and easy to pair with other fabrics,” she says. “During colder days, I love oversized pieces such as crewnecks and cardigans to pair with flared or baggy jeans or pants.” “Accessories are a big factor in my style as well, so I go for more colorful tote bags and jewelry to add to the look,” she adds. For those who are looking to start getting into Y2K fashion, Bekhit says that buying second-hand, whether in person or on websites like Depop, is helpful for finding one-of-a-kind pieces. “Flea markets and vintage shops are another great source to finding unique pieces,” she shares. “I also love supporting small businesses that I find through TikTok and will purchase items through sellers on there.” “My advice is to pick out an outfit or two the night before you have somewhere to be,” she concludes. “Make your life a little easier by doing this to find more joy in putting your outfit on and walking out your door with confidence. Most importantly, wear wha […] “Millersville Grad Student talks Y2K Fashion”

MU Alumna Creates a Lovely Series about Rom-Coms Jennifer Silliman graduated from Millersville University in 2002 with a degree in speech communication and a concentration in broadcasting. Now, her degree is put to good use by creating her very own series “Hearts of Stars,” which she hosts and produces. “Hearts of Stars” began as a podcast about romantic comedy films, where Silliman would interview actors and actresses who star in them. After being picked up by Reveel, a free streaming network, “Hearts of Stars” is now an on-location show where the audience can watch Silliman interview the celebrities and get to know them for more than just their films. “I started the podcast because I really wanted to get to know these rom-com stars outside of their on-screen performances,” Silliman explains. “Most of the interviews I found were about their films, but I wanted to know more about them and their passions.” Silliman says that it’s been exciting to have the opportunity to expand the show. “I remember the day I was offered the television show, and it was very surreal. It’s been a dream since I was little to have my own talk show, so I was thrilled. I wanted the show to be unique, so it was decided early on that it would be an on-location tv series that would film in the celebrity’s home.” “This was a huge transition from my podcast,” she continues. “It’s easy to schedule a Zoom call and send a link, never needing to leave your home. It’s an entirely different ballgame to coordinate travel and a film production crew. I mean, this was a full-scale show with graphics and music. Thank goodness for my team!” When filming a new season, Silliman explains that she can schedule filming around her family life. She’ll travel to a few locations with production lasting about three days, typically Friday through Sunday, and she’s back home by Monday. “An average day while filming for a new season is still pretty average,” she says. “Our shoots last about 3 hours, so we’re in and out quickly. My crew and I have it down to a science. All the footage is then sent to my team at Reveel, who edit and produce the show.” Some notable names Silliman has interviewed include Ryan Paevey, who was a series regular on “General Hospital” and has since starred in several Hallmark movies, and Cindy Busby, who along with several Hallmark credits has also guest starred in quite a few shows for the CW network. Silliman says that her time at Millersville University helped prepare for her work on “Hearts of Stars.” In addition to her coursework, Silliman also gained plenty of experience working at WGAL-TV. She worked there from before her time at the University until she graduated and ultimately became a production assistant for the nationally syndicated show “Wild Moments.” “My time at Millersville prepared me for this adventure in many ways,” Silliman says. “First, the hands-on experience that’s part of the broadcasting option was pivotal in understanding all the aspects of television and film production. Coincidently, I preferred being behind the camera, not in front of it, and that’s still true today. I’m a producer and director at heart.” The best part of the show for Silliman is that it helps make her dreams come true. “The most rewarding part of this experience is just the literal fact that I’m living my dream. This is what I’ve wanted to do my entire life, so to be able to do this show the way I want to do this show has been a true blessing,” Silliman concludes. “Now, the most exciting part is getting to know all the actors and actresses that I love watching on television and really becoming friends with them. I’ve been lucky enough to interview the nicest stars you’ll ever meet.” As for her favorite rom-com? “‘He’s Just Not That Into You.’ A 2009 classic.” “Hearts of Stars” is streaming exclusively on Reveel. For more information about the show, @HeartsofStarsTV is on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Interested in Media Arts Production at Millersville University? Visit he […] “MU Alumna Creates a Lovely Series about Rom-Coms”

Millersville Alumni Awarded for Bloody Mary Mix Bloody Marys might be just an occasional treat for some, but Millersville University alumni Collin and Annie Dawkins have worked hard to perfect the art of the tomato-based drink. The couple founded and own Sunday’s Best LLC, where they sell their special Bloody Mary mixes and garnishes, along with other merchandise for their brand. Since 2021, the Dawkins’ Bloody Mary mix recipe has consecutively been awarded the platinum metal at the Drunken Tomato Awards, the highest award the international competition bestows. Along with being internationally recognized, Sunday’s is currently the most-followed Blood Mary mix on Twitter. Collin and Annie attended the University together, with Collin graduating with a degree in business administration in 2017, while Annie graduated in 2018 with a degree in psychology. Despite holding different jobs before their entrepreneurial efforts began, the two founded Sunday’s with the desire to keep some of their family traditions alive. “Annie’s dad, Pat, introduced us to Bloody Marys when we were in college,” Collin explains. “His Bloody Mary was the first one either of us had ever tried. It took me a while to get used to the taste of Bloody Marys, but I fell in love with them.” “After we had Pat’s Bloody, we would try to find one that could compare to his in Lancaster or any other cities we traveled to. We never could. So, in 2020 we wanted to start an ecommerce business of some kind, and we decided that we could be the ones to show people what an amazing Bloody Mary tastes like.” The two agree that they knew they had something special with their recipe, but the journey from starting the business to being awarded and praised has been exciting. “We have really taken our time building Sunday’s,” says Collin. “It feels like everything has happened like it was supposed to. We knew that we had a great mix, and that people love it, but getting validation from the judges was really cool and humbling.” “It feels really exciting to have this little tradition that my dad started shared with everyone who gets our mix,” Annie adds. Furthering their entrepreneurial experience, the couple recently opened the Lancaster Beignet Company, a local café located on N Prince Street in Lancaster. The two were again inspired by family traditions. “My Dad’s side of the family is from Picayune, Mississippi. My whole family would drive down every Summer, and when we were there, we would go to New Orleans,” says Collin. “Café Du Monde was always a stop while we were there.” “We would order dozens of beignets and eat every single one, and we would also make beignets at home for special occasions. It was something that I grew up with but could never find outside of home. So, kind of like the Bloody Mary Mix, we wanted to bring something new to Lancaster.” Lancaster Beignet has been open for about nine months, and during that time, the two have been developing their business model and working on growing and expanding their team. As they grow, the couple is looking to potentially franchise the company throughout the northeast. “We would love to hear from possible MU alumni who can help us out there!” Collin says. The best aspect for the two has been forming real relationships with their customers and their employees. “The most rewarding part has been creating a space in our community where every person who walks through the doors instantly feels welcomed and that they belong here,” Annie says. “And, of course, feeding them delicious food. It’s always exciting to see the reactions to a plate of six hot beignets or a beignet sandwich coming out.” As for Sunday’s, the two are looking to expand that venture as well. Currently, all their mixes and orders are processed and packaged by hand, but they explain that they’re looking to keep up with the demand they’ve created. Working with third-party logistics and a co-packer are the first steps. “With all those things coming together we can really focus on finding new wholesale partners– restaurants, bars, breweries, shops, and now grocery stores,” Collin says. “Until now, we have done everything ourselves and we just weren’t able to create enough inventory to scale the business. All of that is changing and it’s super exciting.” The couple attributes their time at Millersville to helping with the skills they’ve needed in founding and maintaining their businesses. “I took a lot of great entrepreneurship classes at MU. I was always interested in entrepreneurship, but the classes I took with Dr. (Michael) Douglas specifically really helped me dive deeper into that world,” says Collin. “I also played football my freshman year, and learned what hard work looked and felt like.” Collin also participated in the 30-second pitch competition during his time at the University and moved on to the PASSHE level. “That was the first business that I created, and incorporated, and tried to grow. It wasn’t successful by any means, but it was a fun learning experience.” “Millersville helped me learn and grow in many ways,” says Annie. “I would say my time in the psych department deepened my understanding of how different and unique people are, it gave me tools to help when I’m training, managing and interacting with employees and guests.” Annie also notes that Millersville allowed her the opportunity to develop lifelong friendships. “The friends that are in my life the most are relationships that developed during my time at Millersville.” The two note that entrepreneurship can be intimidating but rewarding. Collin acknowledges the importance of learning from others and listening to feedback. “We’re still at the very beginning of our entrepreneurial journey. As we continue to build and grow, we’d love to talk with people who have done this before and learn from them.” “Taking chances by putting yourself and your business out there for the world to see can come with a scary feeling,” concludes Annie. “Trusting in yourself and remaining authentic are really important pieces to hold on to. That scary feeling might always be there, but it turns more into excitement, and the feeling of being received positively by the commu […] “Millersville Alumni Awarded for Bloody Mary Mix”

Faculty & Students Research Unhoused People in Lancaster Park Millersville University faculty members and graduate students from the Center for Public Scholarship and Social Change and the School of Social Work recently released a report on the use of Lancaster’s Binns Park that is sparking conversations around the county. The report, titled “People & Places: Community needs and the use of public space in Binns Park,” is a 31-page paper that reflects 18 months of research and takes a closer look at the populations who frequent the Lancaster County park located in the heart of the city.  Graduate students in the social work program Jenna Graeff ‘22, Rachel Preibisch and Dawn M. Watson conducted much of the research through interviews, observation, creation of the survey and qualitative data analysis. The team looked to Dr. Mary H. Glazier, professor emerita of sociology, and Dr. Jennifer Frank, associate professor in the School of Social Work, for guidance as they began and implemented their research.  According to the report, unsheltered homelessness in Lancaster City, particularly manifested by people sleeping in Binns Park, has received increased attention recently. Stakeholders cited a number of concerns about the public space, including drug use, drug sales, overdoses, violence, and the welfare of those who congregate there, especially individuals struggling with their mental health. The report states that “Binns Park has become a de facto space for the homeless community, a situation recognized by all stakeholders and the community at large.” This study attempted to understand the complexities of the issues that comprise the Binns Park problem through observation, interviews and surveys. The lack of public restrooms in the park contributed to other issues identified by stakeholders in the community. The research team also discovered that some congregants were not, in fact, homeless. Violence and conflict among participants were also not frequent occurrences. This and more leads to what the report describes as “congregants conducting their private lives in public spaces.” The most pressing issues were:  Developing more accurate information regarding Binns Park and its congregants  Identifying and promoting effective approaches to engage congregants   Finding common ground between formal programs and informal efforts   Honoring the needs of congregants for human connections  Implementing a people-oriented approach  Guest speaker Dave Costerella sparked ideas for the project in a class when he shared his personal experiences doing street outreach. “It started in the homelessness class, which turned into class research and then community engaged research,” shares Graeff. “The suggestion that we have to do something,” says Preibisch. “When Dr. Frank hears those words, watch out because you’re going to do something,” explains Graeff.  With that, the team got to work. “Social work is not just talking about things and saying, ‘Oh, that’s sad.’ It’s doing something about it,” says Watson. After the initial idea was sparked, they secured a Community Engagement Grant and collaborated with the Center for Public Scholarship to design a new and more in-depth research strategy.  According to Glazier, this park points to a shortage of affordable housing and to inadequate resources for people in need. “The presence of unsheltered homeless residing in public places is an indication of the significant lack of affordable housing. It is essential that community leaders and elected officials work cooperatively to ensure that shelter is available, and that people receive the assistance that they need to secure permanent housing. Our research has also indicated that many of the people congregating in public spaces have experienced difficulties accessing the services that they need.” One of the ways to do this is by reducing barriers that discourage people from accessing services.   Both Frank and Glazier jumped at the chance to work with students on the project. “The graduate students have been phenomenal partners in this research,” Glazier says. “They have technical skills that facilitate data collection and analysis and are also able to build rapport with people from diverse backgrounds. This research project would not have been possible without the work of the graduate students.” Frank echoed her sentiments, saying, “I adore collaborating with students on research. Often students don’t see themselves as researchers at first and they’re even intimidated by the notion. But once they learn the basics of social research, and gain a bit of confidence, they find that they become naturals. This group of students are some of the most intelligent, inquisitive, and engaged scholars that I have worked with […] “Faculty & Students Research Unhoused People in Lancaster Park”

Alum Talks Life in the South Pole Living in the South Pole certainly isn’t for everyone. In many ways, it’s nearly inhospitable for humans. That didn’t stop Mark Dellandre. This 2019 graduate of the meteorology program recently spent 10 months living and working in one of the coldest and most remote parts of the Earth. In the summertime, the highest temperatures reach around -20 degrees Fahrenheit. “The lowest I experienced was -100 degrees Fahrenheit. Triple-digit cold!” says Dellandre. So how did he end up at the South Pole? “About a month after graduation, I saw a link to Antarctic contracts in a Facebook group,” says Dellandre. He explains that getting to Antarctica was time-consuming, but “After 3 years, I finally got the call that I would be spending a winter at the South Pole.” Dellandre’s role at the station was to record weather observations and other meteorological services, like weather balloon launches. The balloon launches would collect temperature, dew point, wind direction and speed, and pressure. This would make a vertical profile of the atmosphere or sounding, which is useful for forecasting, climatology and modeling. “Observing requires a person going out and looking at visibility and clouds,” he explains. “This isn’t difficult when the sun is up, but when it’s dark out, vision is much more difficult, as you can imagine.” The South Pole is dark for six months out of the year. “To counter this, we’d have to wait in a vestibule and let our eyes adjust to the dark for about 10 minutes,” explains Dellandre. “It was a little easier to see the markers then.” In order to go outside, you must wear extreme cold weather gear. “Every month I would be out in the cold for more than an hour, but the ECW Gear protected me. However, if there’s a bit of exposed skin somewhere, like the neck or chest, you run the risk of frostbite after 5 minutes.” As long as you’re cautious, Dellandre notes, it’s perfectly safe to go outside. Life at the South Pole comes with other challenges aside from the cold and the long months of darkness. Water is limited. “That means we only get two 2-minute showers a week,” he says. “As you can imagine, there are challenges that grow from this scenario, but you get used to it.” There are other tasks they have to tend to, like sorting their garbage into different bins, including food waste, metals, and biological refuse. Getting online isn’t always possible. “The internet is sporadic, and days could go by without access to it. Many of our personal comforts are stripped away down there, but it’s amazing how quickly a person can adapt to these changes,” he shares. Despite the extreme temperatures and remote location, Dellandre says that the Pole is a very active community. “We had events every weekend as well as routine everyday meetups. For instance, every Tuesday, a group would get together to practice speaking French, and every month we meet for a trivia match.” There are always events happening to help stave off any feelings of stir-craziness, he shares. There are typically around 40 to 100 people living at the station at any given time. Dellandre has plans to return to the South Pole for 14 months this September and says that he’s grateful for the experiences at Millersville. “This was an amazing experience, and it wouldn’t have been possible without my degree from MU. Plus, a lot of the tools and skills necessary for my job I had already learned from our great staff of professors.” He also encourages students to seek opportunities like this. “There are hundreds of memories I forged from the Pole, and I stress to new graduates that an opportunity like this may seem strange, but it’s worth keeping an o […] “Alum Talks Life in the South Pole”

While May is honored as Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Heritage Month, May is a short month on Millersville University’s academic calendar. To truly honor the voices celebrated during APIDA month, the U […]

One Day Give Raises More than Half a Million in 24 Hrs The final number is in for One Day Give 2023, Millersville University’s online day of giving. This year, MU raised $582,465 from 2,026 gifts!   This impressive amount will support student scholarships, Millersville athletics, the EPPIIC Student Compassion Fund that assists students facing undue financial hardships who need emergency assistance, and so much more. Additionally, 15 new scholarships were created during the 2023 One Day Give. The valuable funds contributed during the One Day Give event will directly impact the student experiences of thousands of Millersville University students. “I am so grateful to our community for once again showing support for our brilliant and deserving students here at Millersville University during the 2023 One Day Give event,” says Dr. Daniel A. Wubah, president of Millersville. “Words cannot express how appreciative the entire University and I are for the thousands of generous gifts made yesterday. Thank you to each and every person who made a gift.”   To learn more about One Day Give and to save the date for next year’s event, visit https://www.m […] “One Day Give Raises More than Half a Million in 24 Hrs”

10 Years of Giving: Meet 10 People Impacted by One Day Give One Day Give is Millersville University’s annual online fundraising event. Each year, the Millersville community supports the University’s students, athletic teams and more. To celebrate the 10th year of this event on February 23, 2023, here are 10 people who’ve directly benefited from or contributed to the One Day Give over the last 10 years. Want to make a gift? Click here to donate now.   LAUREN COCA ’23: Environmental and Spatial Sciences major with a minor in Environmental Hazards and Emergency Management In 2020, many donors gave to the EPPIIC Student Compassion Fund, which assists vulnerable students with funding for food, water, housing assistance, medicine and more. Lauren Coca is just one student of many to benefit from those gifts. “I benefited from the EPPIIC Student Compassion Fund by being able to pay for rent and meals as I pursued an internship on campus. Having those necessities taken care of allowed me to excel in my experiential learning co-op as a garden assistant, growing food for the Campus Cupboard during the summer sessions and tackling food insecurity on campus.”  As a recipient of the fund during the throes of the pandemic, Coca says she understands why it’s important to give. “It is critically important to donate to causes like the EPPIIC Student Compassion Fund, as it enables students to focus and excel in their classes,” she shares. “Finances are one of the most significant components college students must worry about as they juggle their educational needs.”  Because of the funds she received, Coca could focus on her education. Since then, she became the vice president of the Student Government Association and treasurer in MU’s Society of Manufacturing Engineers chapter. Coca has also dived into more of her passions. “We have turned trash into upcycled keychains, bottle openers, succulent pots, and so much more using industrial shredders and injection molding processes,” she shares. Once Coca graduates, she hopes to pursue work in the environmental field and, eventually, a master’s degree in microplastics research.  SPENCER SHORTT ‘23: Psychology ‘21, Sport Management ‘23 Last year, the Millersville University men’s soccer team was able to visit England because of generous donations made to the team during One Day Give. Spencer Shortt, a forward on the team, says the trip was a valuable experience for everyone. “Going to England provided my teammates and me the opportunity to learn and appreciate the cultural differences of England as well as grow and build our relationship as a team to prepare for the upcoming season,” he shares. “We made unforgettable memories that will stay with us for a lifetime.”     “Personally, the most impactful part of the trip was getting to tour different cities and interact with locals to learn about their culture and way of life,” says Shortt of the team’s travels. “I enjoyed attending the professional matches and playing against English clubs, but exploring the cities and interactions was most impactful.”  As someone who has experienced the benefits of One Day Give, Shortt understands the importance of this day and what it means to the Millersville community. “One Day Give is the easiest and most beneficial way to positively impact Millersville Athletic teams as a supporter,” he says. “Donations through One Day Give provide students and student-athletes opportunities and experiences that we would not be able to get without that support.”   After graduation, Shortt plans to move to Florida, where he will apply his undergraduate degree in psychology along with his master’s degree in sport management to work as a sport psychology/mental performance consultant with athletic teams.  3. AMBER LIGGETT ‘18, ‘20M: Meteorology with a minor in Mathematics ‘18, Emergency Management ‘20 & Donor As an alumna with multiple degrees from Millersville University, Amber Liggett can speak to the standard of education MU provides and the opportunities available to students through One Day Give.   Liggett graduated in 2018 with a degree in meteorology and a minor in mathematics. In 2020, she earned a master’s degree in emergency management. According to Liggett, MU prepared her for her career. “MU has been instrumental in giving me a detailed understanding of where all I could take my career in both the fields of meteorology and emergency management with guest speakers in seminars and in classes,” she explains. “My professors helped me get into prestigious internships every year in undergrad through letters of recommendation and set me up for success with a graduate assistantship program. Additionally, I had a plethora of hands-on learning opportunities both in undergrad and graduate school, as well, that really enhanced my resume and prepared me for my current career.” Today, Liggett serves as a contractor with the U.S. Department of Commerce, National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Program Office’s Communication team.  Not only has MU prepared Liggett for her career, but the University also helped her attend the American Meteorological Society’s annual meeting twice because of One Day Give. “One Day Give provided additional money for me to attend the annual meeting when I was a junior and senior,” shares Liggett. “It also provided additional funds to the Center for Disaster Research and Education when I was a graduate assistant in that office.”   As someone who has felt the impact of One Day Give, Liggett understands why this day is so important to students. “One Day Give provides students with funding to have more enriched opportunities during their collegiate career,” she says. “Everything is becoming more expensive, including professional development and research opportunities. The money raised during One Day Give makes the difference between one and a handful of students attending conferences, or a student being funded to do the research of their dreams during their undergraduate or graduate career.”   GREGORY WELLONS ‘78: Psychology ‘78 & Donor While Gregory Wellons was a student, he joined the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity to give back. “I became a member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity while at Millersville,” he says. “One of our objectives is to aid downtrodden humanity in its efforts to achieve higher social, economic and intellectual status.” One of the ways Wellons has lived out that mission is by helping to create a scholarship fund specifically for African American/Latino students. “I have seen the impact that giving to the African American/Latino fund has had on students at Millersville,” shares Wellons. “I have spoken to several scholarship recipients, and they expressed how much it has helped them.”  One Day Give inspires Wellons to give back to the University, as he attributes much of his success in life to his education. “The reason I consistently give to MU One Day is my degree from Millersville has provided me with great success in my life,” he says. “I also believe you should give back to help others.”  DR. THOMAS NEUVILLE: Professor of Education, Coordinator of Integrated Studies & Donor As an education professor and the faculty administrator of the integrated studies program, Dr. Thomas Neuville understands the impact giving can have across campus. “Millersville University is a community of the true sense of community,” he says. “A community that is more than simply a group of people living in a particular place. Millersville represents diverse people interacting with a unifying common purpose.”  Neuville guides his life and decisions on the philosophy of Socrates and believes in giving back to the community. “Socrates also taught that the only good is knowledge and the only evil is ignorance. We profoundly know this today. Those who have been excluded and made marginalized are welcomed at Millersville and for that, giving is the least I can do.”   DR. AMBER SESSOMS 06, ‘08M: Psychology ‘06, School Counseling ‘08, Trustee & Donor As a two-time graduate and a Trustee of the University, Dr. Amber Sessoms has a deep love for Millersville and believes in giving back in many ways. “As a trustee, it’s one of my responsibilities to not only give back of my time but of resources,” she shares. “As a Black alumna, I give to the Intercultural Center during One Day Give in honor of my mentor of many years, Dr. Rita Smith-Wade-El.” As a former scholarship recipient, she also makes a habit of giving to the African American/ Latino Alumni Scholarship. “That scholarship helped me to get my books when I didn’t have enough money,” says Sessoms.  Sessoms, who served as a school psychologist for many years, now works as the Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Natural Inclination LLC, which strives to “support courageous leaders in cultivating liberatory spaces for individuals to be their full, authentic selves.” She says, “My work is so attached to equity and inclusion, but we often stop at equity because we just think about access. But it’s really about affirming the work already done and recognizing that we have staff who want to create a sense of belonging for our students. When I think about being inclusive, one of Millersville’s EPPIIC Values, I want to honor people who are creating inclusive spaces, and that often takes money to sustain the meaningful work.”  JENN HOUTZ ‘18: Biology, Animal Behavior Option ‘18 & Donor When Jenn Houtz was an undergraduate at Millersville studying biology, she appeared in several promotional videos for One Day Give. In those videos, she clearly outlined her goals for the future: to become a research professor. At the end of 2022, she fulfilled that goal.   According to Houtz, it was possible because of her education at MU. “It was such a surreal experience to receive my dream job as an assistant professor of biology at Allegheny College,” she shares. “All my education and research from four years at Millersville and five years at Cornell led to this milestone. My undergrad research advisors were two of the first people I called with the exciting news.” Houtz is also finishing her doctorate in ecology and evolutionary biology at Cornell University, where she studies how wild animals respond to stressful events like climate change. “My doctoral work aims to identify bioindicators of stress resilience in wild birds, such as hormones,” she explains.  Undergraduate research was a big part of her experience at Millersville. “When I conducted research at Millersville, I was involved in every aspect of the scientific process, including grant writing, sample collection, data analysis, and communicating my results,” says Houtz. “The small class sizes and passion of the biology faculty for student success equipped me with all the skills I needed to become an independent researcher.”   Her research even took her outside of the classroom and to South America. “The most valuable part of my undergraduate research was the ability to travel to Ecuador to conduct fieldwork and attend scientific conferences with professors where I could network with other scientists,” she says. “I learned that research is most productive when done in collaboration with others – a philosophy I teach my students now.”   It’s safe to say that One Day Give directly impacted Houtz, and she says that now is a great time to give back. “Millersville can change lives. My education at Millersville (including the generous research grant funds I was able to apply from various donors) set me on the path to success,” she says. “I wouldn’t trade my experience at Millersville for anything.”  8. SANTIAGO RAMOS ‘22: Manufacturing Engineering Technology ‘22 Another Millersville student who benefited from the EPPIIC Student Compassion Fund is 2022 graduate Santiago Ramos. He says the funds couldn’t have come at a better time. “It helped me to financially go through what I would say were my toughest days in the past 5 years, financially and mentally,” he shares. “It also made me feel like there were tools I could use to get through economic adversity mixed with the good feeling of knowing that there are people who are willing to help you.”  Ramos also notes that giving to Millersville students has a real impact. “You could be helping someone who is in real need. A monetary amount that may not be significant to you could greatly impact someone going through a tough time,” he says. “Your donation could be helping someone to accomplish their goals in life.”  After graduation, Ramos moved to New York City and began working as a project manager for Porcelanosa. “I’m currently being sponsored for an H1B (working) visa, and my goal is to stay in the U.S. for the next few years,” he shares. “I’m happy with where I am and who I am today, and I just want to thank Millersville University for all the support I received. It is a great community.”  SHELLY BEHRENS ‘21M: Sport Management with an emphasis in Athletic Administration ‘21M & Field Hockey Coach As the head coach of Millersville University’s Field Hockey Team, Shelly Behrens recognizes the importance of One Day Give. She says the impact has been “immeasurable.” Behrens says, “The generosity and philanthropy of so many has been such a positive for our players and field hockey program overall. It has literally changed lives and I know it will continue to do so!”   Behrens explains that the money raised for the team during One Day Give impacts the players directly. “It allows me to help our players that are here right now,” she says. “Not all of our players are on scholarships and the gifts made to the team help us to attract higher-profile academic and athletic players.”  Giving is a personal choice, notes Behrens, but one that can help students for years to come. “I hope that anyone that’s been on the receiving end of a gift or scholarship will consider paying it forward, knowing that their gift to Millersville field hockey will create a ripple effect,” she says.   Behrens says the amount doesn’t matter. “It could be $5, $20 or $125 or higher.” This year, the field hockey team is asking alumni, fans and family to give $125 over 12 months to have their name engraved on a locker as part of the Morgan Athletic Complex renovation. “That amount gives donors the ability to keep a legacy into the future,” shares Behrens. “During my time at Millersville, many players benefited from the generosity of athletics donors. I hope that these alums and families will step forward and etch their mark as legacy donors for the Morgan Athletic Complex,” Behren says. Mostly, she’s grateful for the support the Millersville community has shown the field hockey team over the years. “Somehow, thank you never seems like enough,” says Behren.  MEDERNERIS MARTINEZ NUNEZ ‘18:  Social Work ‘18 & Donor Mederneris Martinez Nunez is a graduate of the social work program who created the Rodriguez Family Award. The award encourages young mothers of color to accomplish their goals.   Martinez Nunez explains that she created the award because of her experience as a young mother pursuing higher education. “I had a difficult path to graduation as a young mother and as the first-generation college student in my family,” she explains. “I couldn’t have the traditional student’s college experience due to my responsibilities as a mother of two young children. I didn’t have the ability or time to join sports or clubs for the same reason.”   In 2017, Martinez Nunez received the Marion G. Foster Award, presented annually to a junior social work major for academic excellence under extenuating circumstances. “That award made a huge difference in my life,” she shares. “It helped me financially and encouraged me to keep going.” After receiving the award, Martinez Nunez knew she wanted to impact another student’s life the same way. “As a student, I conducted a literature review and learned through research that at the time, only 2% of young mothers of color actually graduated college.” That idea later became the Rodriguez Family Award.  Martinez Nunez understands the impact donations have on students and recognizes the importance of One Day Give. “I give to Millersville during One Day Give because I know first-hand the impact that giving to Millersville has on students. Giving to Millersville has a greater impact than words can describe,” she says. “It is an honor to give back to my community and University. A special thanks to the social work department for always being […] “10 Years of Giving: Meet 10 People Impacted by One Day Give”

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Celebrate 10 Years of Giving on Feb. 23 Millersville University will hold its 10th annual online fundraiser, One Day Give, on February 23, 2023. Last year’s record-breaking event raised $743,839 for student scholarships, athletics and more. To make your donation to Millersville during the One Day Give, visit 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.  “One Day Give is an incredible opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of deserving college students,” says Alice McMurry, associate vice president for advancement at Millersville University. “I’m amazed at the generosity of our community each year as they come together to give to what they love. The impact it makes is immeasurable.”   The fundraiser, which begins at midnight and ends at midnight, encourages donors to “give to what you love” and 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.     Additionally, alumni who are interested in becoming brand ambassadors for the event to help spread the word can sign up by visiting millersville.edu/give/one […] “Celebrate 10 Years of Giving on Feb. 23”