Meet the Class of 2025

On Saturday, May 10, over 1,000 students will graduate from Millersville University. Featured here are several of the University’s upcoming graduates who share their experiences at Millersville, as well as their plans for the future.  

KAYLA MITCHELL 

What is your major and where are you from? 

I majored in communications with a concentration in public relations and I’m from Long Island, New York. 

What are your plans after graduation? 

I’m planning on staying in New York and moving to New York City and working for a public relations firm, gaining lots of experience about the industry and working with different clients. 

What is your favorite memory from Millersville? 

I have so many memories from Millersville, but one that sticks out is definitely the alumni games I played in with the lacrosse team. They were always so fun because our old teammates would come back for them, we would get to play with the music on and enjoy a fun tailgate with yummy food with our friends and families afterward too. 

What organizations have you been a part of? 

I have been a part of the University’s Honors College, Public Relations Student Society of America, the women’s lacrosse team, Cygnus Society, Center for Health and Education Promotion and Letters of Love. 

Is there a professor that has stood out to you? 

One of my favorite professors during my time here had been Dr. Boyle. He has taught me so much about public relations and building a successful campaign, but was also great to come to for advice, help on assignments, and was very approachable. 

Is there anything else you’d like to add? 

I never heard of Millersville before I was recruited to play lacrosse here and the school took me by surprise in the best way possible. Millersville is an amazing place to make memories, learn new skills and I am so grateful for my time here. 

 

JULIA FALLOWS 

What is your major and where are you from? 

I am from Delaware County, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Marple Newtown High School. My major is Secondary Education, English! 

What are your plans after graduation? 

After graduation, my goal is to work as a full-time high school English teacher. There is a significant need for quality educators, and I am proud to be part of the next generation of passionate educators dedicated to helping young people succeed! 

What is your favorite memory from Millersville? 

Millersville, along with the organizations I’ve been a part of, has given me numerous opportunities to travel. I traveled to Greece with my track and field team and to Italy through a study abroad program. I also had the chance to travel to New Mexico to present published research, New York for the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, and Chicago for the convening of Newman Civic Fellows. The experiences I gained from traveling abroad are irreplaceable, and I encourage everyone to seek out similar opportunities! 

What organizations have you been a part of? 

I have been involved in the Women’s Track and Field team, the Color of Teaching Mentoring Program, the American Association of University Women, The Cygnus Society, The Benchmark Program (Lancaster City), Newman Civic Fellowship, Sigma Tau Delta, ODK, and KDP. 

Is there a professor that stood out to you during your time here? 

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time in both the English and Education departments. I must give special credit to Dr. Jill Craven, Dr. Miriam Witmer, Dr. Katarzyna Jakubiak, and Dr. Timothy Miller. These professors provided me with an outstanding education and invaluable opportunities to grow as an educator and as a person. My experience at Millersville University would not be complete without their guidance and support. 

Anything you’d like to add? 

Millersville University is truly a hidden gem. Take advantage of all the opportunities that come your way, and don’t be afraid to say yes to new experiences. Travel, publish research, and build relationships with your professors! 

  

EMMA SCHNEIDER 

What is your major and where are you from? 

I am from Myerstown, Pa. My major is early childhood education, and I have a minor in English as a second language.  

 What are your plans after graduation? 

After graduation, I am hoping to teach internationally in Sweden. I had the opportunity to visit a school in Sweden this past winter and now I am looking forward to moving there and starting my career in education! 

What is your favorite memory from Millersville? 

My favorite memory from Millersville is being president of the Early Childhood Organization on campus. This organization provides me and others the opportunity to meet and make connections with other future teachers and families from the Millersville community. 

What organizations have you been a part of? 

I currently serve as the treasurer of the Early Childhood Organization and I served as president for two years. I am also a member of the Cygnus Society where I serve as a student ambassador for the Office of the President. Other organizations I am a member of are the Phi Kappa Phi honor society and National Society of Leadership and Success. 

Is there a professor that stood out to you during your time here? 

A professor that stood out to me during my time at Millersville is Dr. Sarah Jackson. She is an excellent advocate for creativity in the classroom and I have used what I learned in her class in both of my student teaching placements. 

  

JOSHUA ZIETAK 

What is your major and where are you from?  

I’m a dual major in entertainment technology and occupational safety & environmental health. I was born and raised in the South Hills of Pittsburgh, PA, but in 2018, I moved to South Central Pennsylvania for work. 

What are your plans after graduation? 

After graduation, I’m moving to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, to pursue my Master of Fine Arts in Technical Production at the University of North Carolina. I accepted my offer in November 2024 and will be part of the three-year program. In addition to my studies, I’ll be teaching one undergraduate class per semester and working as part of the production team for PlayMakers Repertory Company, UNC’s professional theater company. 

What is your favorite memory from Millersville? 

I don’t have one specific memory that stands out, but what I’ll miss most is being surrounded by my incredible peers. Whether it was late nights working on productions, tackling challenging projects together, or just sharing laughs in the lab, the sense of camaraderie within my program has been invaluable. Millersville has given me an environment where I could grow both professionally and personally, and I’ll always be grateful for the friendships and experiences that shaped my time here. 

What organizations have you been a part of? 

I’ve been involved in several honor societies that recognize excellence in my fields of study. I’m a member of Epsilon Pi Tau, the national honor society for engineering and technology, and Alpha Epsilon Rho, the electronic media honor society. I was also inducted into Omicron Delta Kappa, a leadership honor society that recognizes students who excel in academics, leadership, and service. Additionally, I’m part of the Cygnus Society, which honors students who have made significant contributions to Millersville University. Being part of these organizations has allowed me to connect with like-minded peers, engage in professional development opportunities, and give back to the university community. 

Is there a professor that stood out to you during your time here? 

Professor Adam Boyer was instrumental in helping me navigate my path at Millersville as a nontraditional student. His guidance, support, and industry expertise had a major impact on my academic and professional journey. Whether it was through insightful discussions, hands-on projects, or simply taking the time to offer advice, he consistently encouraged me to push my boundaries and refine my skills. His passion for teaching and dedication to his students truly stood out, and I’m incredibly grateful for the role he played in my success at Millersville. 

Is there anything else you’d like to add? 

I’m incredibly thankful for my time at Millersville and for the faculty, staff, and peers who have supported me along the way. The experiences I’ve had here have shaped me both personally and professionally, and I’m excited to bring everything I’ve learned into my next chapter at UNC. 

  

CIERRA STRAWBRIDGE 

What is your major and where are you from? 

I am majoring in Psychology, with a minor in Women Gender and Sexuality Studies. I am from Lancaster, Pa. 

What are your plans after graduation? 

After graduation, I am going to work locally for a year before hopefully starting an out of state general psychology master’s program.  

What is your favorite memory from Millersville? 

My favorite memory at Millersville is attending the EPA 2025 conference in New York City with several psychology professors and peers. We had a great time!  

What organizations have you been a part of? 

In my time at Millersville, I have been a part of the Cygnus Society, Psi Chi Honors Society in Psychology, the Psychology Department Honors Program, and the peer mentoring program for freshman Psychology majors.  

Is there a professor that stood out to you during your time here? 

After my transfer to Millersville, Dr. Shawn Gallagher was one of the first professors I had in the Psychology Department. Although I was very unsure about my major choice and capabilities in his statistics class, he has always been encouraging and confident in my abilities. He also pushed me to apply to be a part of the Department Honors program, which has given me the opportunity to do research in my areas of interest. Thanks, Dr. Gallagher. 

  

JOSEPHINE DOMBACH 

What is your major and where are you from?  

Middle Level Education Major. I am from Lancaster, about 20 minutes from Millersville campus. 

What are your plans after graduation? 

I plan to teach 6th grade locally. 

What is your favorite memory from Millersville? 

My favorite memory from Millersville is becoming involved with Navigators and making such impactful friendships. 

What organizations have you been a part of? 

I have been a part of The Navigators, Cygnus Society, Changing Health Attitudes and Actions to Recreate Girls, and the Collegiate Middle Level Association.  

What is a class that stood out to you during your time here? 

One class that stood out to me was Calculus 2 with Dr. Heitmann. The class was tough, but Dr. Heitmann was so helpful and really wanted us to succeed. 

Is there anything else you’d like to add? 

I am so grateful for my time at Millersville and the friends I have made. The biggest thing that helped my experience, especially as a commuter, was getting involved. 

  

LEILANI KRADY  

What is your major and where are you from? 

I am a dual major in history and anthropology/archaeology, and I’m from Lancaster. 

What are your plans after graduation? 

After graduation, I plan to get a job. 

What is your favorite memory from your time at Millersville? 

My favorite memory from Millersville was our Archaeological Field School last fall in New Castle, Delaware, where we excavated a 17th-century tavern site. 

What organizations have you been a part of? 

I am a part of WIXQ and Anthropology club and previously have been a part of the honors college and All Campus Musical Association. 

Is there a professor that stood out to you?  

Dr. Trussell’s Collapse of Civilizations class changed my entire worldview on life/history and convinced me to change my major. 

Is there anything else you’d like to add? 

Thanks to the Millersville community for supporting my journey over the past four years! 

  

COLLIN STAUB 

What’s your major and where are you from? 

I am a music education major and I am from New Oxford, Pa. 

What are your plans after graduation? 

My plans after graduating are to find work in a school and to work toward a master’s in either vocal pedagogy or choral conducting. 

What is your favorite memory from your time here at Millersville? 

I wish I could say that I have a favorite moment, but I don’t, there’s too many. Some of my favorite memories are my first conference with the Pennsylvania Music Educators Association, my time with Chromatic, becoming a brother of Phi Mu Alpha, and breakfast with my classmates in the cove. #KeeptheCove 

What organizations have you been a part of? 

I have been a member of Chromatic, National Association for Music Educators, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, The Marauder Marching band, U. Choir and Tell School Chorale, MU Concert Band, and All Campus Musical Association. 

Who is a professor that has stood out to you during your time here? 

I think of there was ever a professor that will stick with me, it will be Dr. Tacka. He’s the type of professor that knows everything and can tell you anything. His craft and ability to share it with others is fascinating and is a great model for other educators. Dr. Tacka is a very honest man, honest enough to scare you at times and wake you up to reality. But he genuinely wants what’s best for his students and stops at nothing to ensure they succeed. 

Is there anything else you’d like to add? 

To my fellow music majors at the Tell School of Music, and the greater MU community, my hope is that my final words serve as some advice. The world we live in is not a shy one, it gives and takes without notice, reason, or remorse. So do not be shy in the face of adversity, challenge, or strife. Work for what you want, push yourself to be better, and stay true to who you are. Hoping that someone or something will get you where you want to be will only keep you in longing. Prove yourself, show the world. Do not let your dreams come true, MAKE them come true. 

  

ALLISON ARNOLD 

What’s your major and where are you from? 

My majors are accounting and finance, and I am from Mechanicsburg, Pa. 

What are your plans after graduation? 

My plans for after graduation include working for an accounting firm and obtaining my CPA certification. 

Is there a favorite memory you have from your time here? 

One of my favorite memories from Millersville was when I got to run back home to the sorority, Alpha Sigma Alpha, I joined a couple semesters prior during formal recruitment. 

What organizations have you been a part of? 

I have been a part of the Marauder Fund, Math Club, Millersville University Marauder Marching Band, Reformed University Fellowship, Alpha Sigma Alpha, MU National Panhellenic Council, and All-Greek Council. 

Is there a professor that stood out to you during your time here? 

One of my favorite professors that I have had in my time of being here at Millersville would be Dr. Galante. I am a little biased because he is my adviser, but I always enjoyed his classes because I actually learned something and fully enjoyed his classes. 

Is there anything else you’d like to add? 

My advice to other students on campus or incoming is to get out and join groups and organizations! You can meet so many new people and some of your closest friends through these groups. 

  

ZACHARY BARNHART 

What’s your major and where are you from? 

I am a mathematics major with a statistics concentration and a data science minor. I am from Abbottstown, Pa. 

What are your plans after graduation? 

Next year, I will be attending Penn State University to pursue a master’s education in applied statistics, with the goal of becoming a statistician in industry following that graduation. 

Is there a favorite memory you have from your time here? 

My favorite memory from my time at Millersville is all the fun activities I participated in as a part of Math Club. 

What clubs/organizations have you been a part of? 

I have been the president of Math Club for the past two years and participated in the club for all four years. I have also been a part of the Honors College, Omicron Delta Kappa, and participated in multiple intramural sports. I have been a tutor in the Math Assistance Center for the past three years. 

Do you have a favorite class or professor that stood out to you? 

One of my favorite classes from my time at Millersville is MATH 536: Statistical Methods 2 with Dr. Patrick Stewart. His engaging teaching style made learning enjoyable, and I found the course to be applicable to my future goals. Dr. Stewart has also served as my thesis adviser for the past year and a half, providing valuable guidance and support throughout my research. I would also like to give a special shoutout to the entire Math Department at Millersville for their support and encouragement throughout all four years of my undergraduate education. 

Is there anything else you’d like to add? 

In the summer of 2023, I participated in a Research Experience for Undergraduates in biostatistics as part of the Summer Institute in Biostatistics at North Carolina State and Duke University. 

  

LYDIA EIFERT 

What is your major and where are you from? 

I’m majoring in childhood education and I’m from Dover, Pa. 

What are your plans after graduation? 

After graduation, I will be teaching in a Lancaster County School District. Eventually, I will return to school to obtain my master’s degree.  

What is your favorite memory from Millersville? 

My favorite memory from Millersville is when I traveled to Europe on a study abroad trip with the Honors College. I learned so much about myself and the world during this trip, and it truly has changed my life.  

What organizations have you been a part of? 

I was the president of the Cantilena Women’s Choir, the president of the Honors College Student Association, a member of the Kappa Delta Pi Educational Honors Society, a member of Her Campus and The Snapper. 

Is there a professor or class that stood out to you during your time here? 

Dr. Sarah Jackson stood out to me, and I enjoyed the class Creative Experiences for the Young Child. 

  

BRENNA CHERNICH 

What’s your major and where are you from? 

My major is dual early childhood education and special education with a minor in iSTEM. I am from Lebanon, Pa. 

What are your plans after graduation? 

My plan for after graduation is to work as a special educator at the School District of Lancaster! 

What organizations have you been a part of? 

Organizations I was a part of include the Navigators, the Honors College, and the Honors College Student Association. 

Who is a professor that has stood out to you during your time here? 

A professor that stood out to me was Dr. Tamakloe from the special education department. I thoroughly enjoyed having her as a professor and as an adviser. Her classes challenged me to be more reflective, and she taught me so much about special education. What stands out to me even more than her classes are her kindness and care toward her students. I never doubted that she was rooting for me and knew I could go to her about anything! 

  

MADISON STEBILA 

What’s your major and where are you from? 

My major is Secondary Mathematics Education with a concentration in statistics. 

What are your plans after graduation? 

I will be working in the Warwick School District as a high school math teacher. 

What clubs and organizations have you been a part of? 

I am on the track and field team at Millersville, so winning the Track and Field PSAC Championship at our home track in spring 2022 brings back positive memories of the university. I was able to show our love for the university through one of my favorite activities. Additionally, the Millersville Track and Field team took a trip to Athens, Greece, which I am very thankful to be a part of and hold very close to me. 

I have been a part of the Women’s Track and Field team as a heptathlete along with Math Educators of Millersville University. 

Who is a professor that has stood out to you during your time here? 

Overall, the math department had my best interests in both my successes as a student and individual. Dr. Han was very willing to talk to me about life outside of classes at any moment, Dr. Taylor and Dr. White pushed me to become the strong educator I am today, and teachers such as Dr. Heitmann, Dr. Robinson, and Dr. Stewart challenged my thinking and elevated knowledge I look forward to applying to my classroom. 

Is there anything else you’d like to add? 

During your time at Millersville, look into the different programs and resources Millersville has to offer. Whether it be intramural sports, the counseling center, or any clubs or organizations, these resources are there to support and provide and enhance the years spent at Millersville University. 

  

MICHAEL MILLER 

What is your major and where are you from? 

My major is environmental earth and ocean science with a concentration in ocean science and a minor in data science. I am originally from West Chester, Pa. 

What are your plans post grad? 

After I graduate, I am moving to Atlanta to pursue a Ph.D. at Georgia Tech. My research there will revolve around leveraging neural networks to study ocean deoxygenation. 

What is a favorite memory you have at Millersville? 

My favorite memory at Millersville was attending the AGU Ocean Science Meeting in New Orleans, La. with some of my classmates and professors. I got to learn from and meet new people, experience the city life there, and spend quality time with my some of my favorite classmates and professors who helped me get to the position I am in today. 

Is there a professor that stood out to you during your time here? 

Dr. Vaillancourt and Dr. Kumar were both instrumental to my success inside and outside of the classroom and gave me plenty of opportunities to grow and succeed in the Earth Science department. Without them, I definitely wouldn’t be in the position I am today. 

  

ALEXIS STENGEL 

What is your major and where are you from? 

I am graduating with my master’s in social work as well as my school social work certificate! I am from Lancaster County and have lived here my whole life. 

What are your plans after graduation? 

I have accepted a position at Community Services Group as a school-based outpatient therapist in Hempfield School District!  

What is your favorite memory from Millersville? 

I have been lucky enough to meet new friends through the School of Social Work, and many of us have become close within our cohort. I am confident that many of these relationships will extend beyond graduation as we go into the field.  

What organizations have you been a part of? 

I was a fellow for the Center for Civic Responsibility and Leadership in the final semester of undergrad, which led to my graduate assistantship with CCRL this year! 

Is there a professor that stood out to you during your time here? 

A class that I truly loved and was so unique was a course I took with Dr. Heather Girvin and Dr. Abigail Wilson at their organization Lone Oak Animal Assisted Therapy. The class was a summer institute that lasted a week and focused on expressive arts and animal assisted therapy, and we got to interact with the animals at Lone Oak. 

  

DHANA VERRASTRO 

What is your major and where are you from? 

I am an early childhood education major with a pre-law minor from Emmaus, Pennsylvania, and a proud graduate of Emmaus High School. Following my graduation from Millersville University, I plan to attend law school with the goal of pursuing a career in education law – an area where I can merge my passions for both education and justice. 

What is your favorite memory from your time at Millersville? 

One of my most memorable experiences at Millersville was participating in an Honors College study abroad program, where I had the opportunity to travel across five European countries under the guidance of Dr. Wolfgang, Dr. Petula, and Dr. Jackson. This transformative experience broadened my global perspective and deepened my commitment to equity in education. 

What clubs and organizations have you been a part of? 

\During my time at Millersville, I served as captain of the Millersville Cheerleading Team, president of Kappa Delta Pi, an International Honor Society in education, and an active member of the Honors College. Additionally, I completed my student teaching in a fourth grade classroom at Hambright Elementary School in the Penn Manor School District under the mentorship of my cooperating teacher, Ms. Ay’Shia Gaston. I feel incredibly fortunate to have learned from Ms. Gaston, whose passion for teaching, inclusive practices, and unwavering dedication to her students inspired me daily. Her guidance challenged me to grow as an educator and reinforced my commitment to student-centered instruction. Beyond the classroom, the entire Hambright community was welcoming, collaborative, and deeply supportive. It was truly an amazing experience that I will carry with me into both my educational and legal career paths. 

Who is a professor that has stood out to you? 

I had the privilege of taking four courses with Dr. Richard Glenn, whose rigorous instruction significantly strengthened my confidence and solidified my decision to pursue law school. His mentorship was instrumental in shaping my academic journey. For my senior thesis, I researched The Effects of Redlining on Public Education under the advisement of Dr. Nakeiha Primus. This work reflects my deep commitment to addressing systemic inequities in education.