Six to be Inducted into Hall of Distinguished Alumni during Alumni Weekend

Eastern Kentucky University alumni and friends are invited to visit the campus April 26-27 when the University hosts its annual Alumni Weekend.

This year’s event features special reunions for the classes of 1943, 1948, 1953, 1958, 1963, 1968, 1973, 1978 and 1983, with the Class of 1963 inducted as Pioneers. Alumni of all years are welcome.

A highlight of the weekend is the annual Alumni Awards and Recognition Banquet, where six Eastern graduates are to be inducted into the University’s Hall of Distinguished Alumni. The event will be held Saturday, April 27, at 6 p.m. in the Keen Johnson Ballroom. Tickets for the banquet are $35 each.

A full listing of Alumni Weekend events is available at alumni.eku.edu/insidelook/alumni-weekend.

The six Hall of Distinguished Alumni inductees are: Rev. Robert Blythe, Richmond, pastor of First Baptist Church and city commissioner; Jeanie Gail Ashe Bowman, Hattiesburg, Miss., president of J Bowman Associates; Judy Layne-Wood, Yorktown, Va., retired teacher and registrar, now community volunteer; Jean Chenault Logue, Richmond, Chief Circuit Judge, 25th Judicial Circuit; Col. (Ret.) Ralph Newman, Grayson, retired Army officer; and Dr. Janna Vice, Richmond, provost and vice president for academic affairs, EKU.

Also, Dr. Ezra Engling, professor of Spanish in the Department of Foreign Languages and Humanities, and Karen Millsap, American Sign Language specialist in the Department of American Sign Language and Interpreter Education, will each receive the Alumni Association’s Award for Teaching Excellence.

A Distinguished Service Award will be presented to David McFaddin, Richmond, a 1999 EKU graduate now serving as executive director of government relations for the University.

“Spring is a wonderful time to visit The Campus Beautiful and see it blooming with color,” said Jackie Collier, director of alumni relations. “Alumni Weekend offers our alumni and friends a special time to reconnect with each other and with Eastern.”

The Richards Alumni House will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday. Early Bird Registration will be offered at the Alumni House between 10:30 a.m. and noon.

At 5:30 p.m. on Friday, President and Joanne Whitlock will host a reception for members of the Pioneer Class of 1963 and their guests at the Blanton House. A dinner ($20 per person) will be held at 6:30 in the Stratton Building Cafeteria.

Events continue Saturday, April 27, with registration beginning at 9 a.m. in the Keen Johnson Building.

Saturday morning also includes a continental breakfast, class reunion photographs, and class luncheons and meetings at 11:30 a.m. ($19 per person).

The day also features campus tours, recognition of EKU Pioneers (those who graduated from the University at least 50 years ago), and the dedication of the William H. Berge Virtual Oral History Center in honor of the late EKU history professor. Any graduate from 1963 or earlier who would like to be recognized this year as an EKU Pioneer should contact the Alumni Relations office, 859-622-1260.

The weekend also includes a reunion of Phi Mu alumni.

For more information about Alumni Weekend, or to make reservations for any of the events, contact the Alumni Relations Office at 859-622-1260 or, toll-free, 866-624-4050, or e-mail alumni.relations@eku.edu.

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Edinboro University to honor two community leaders during Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Luncheon

01/31/2013

Edinboro University and President Julie E. Wollman will honor two community leaders for their lifetimes of serving others during Edinboro’s 17th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Luncheon on Friday, February 8.

Jacqueline Brown is being recognized for her service and contributions as the Deputy Chief of the Erie Police Support Service Division, and Bishop Stanley K. Smith, Pastor of  Meadville’s St. John Missionary Full Gospel Church and State Bishop of Pennsylvania of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International, will be honored for his nearly two decades of exemplary community service.

Brown was selected by the University’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Luncheon  Committee because she dedicated herself to making a difference in the lives of youth and adults. A distinguished woman making history in the City of Erie, Brown accepted the position of Deputy Chief of Police of the Support Services Division of the Erie Bureau of Police in 2001. As an esteemed officer, she supervised police officers in three major detective divisions.

She is known as a present-day “Drum Major” because of her many major contributions advancing justice, and for having demonstrated throughout her career what it takes to improve and empower youth and adults alike by providing mentoring, education and training.

Her initiative and leadership reached out to minorities – men and women – who sought employment opportunities at all levels in the police department and correctional facilities, improving hiring practices at both that continue to this day.

Bishop Smith, who was born in Erie, was selected for the annual King Award because he has dedicated himself to improving the lives of countless others through his initiation of community outreach in myriad ways in Meadville and beyond. His contagious personality and innovative approach are known not only locally, but throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Serving the Meadville community and surrounding counties for nearly two decades, his vision, ministry and guidance initiated local efforts toward Breast Cancer Awareness education and other efforts to address health-related issues.

Among his many initiatives, Bishop  Smith established an annual 5K Run/Walk to benefit those with breast cancer, scholarship awards to encourage women in the “non-traditional” student category to pursue higher education, and the El Shaddai Clothing Outreach Ministry to aid women, infants and children in need.
The award recipients were chosen by Edinboro’s King Awards Luncheon Committee for recognition by the University for their unwavering dedication to social equality, peaceful community activism and education, exemplifying the ideals of the late civil rights leader, King, and for personifying his dream.

The luncheon will be held February 8 from noon to 1:30 p.m. in Edinboro’s Van Houten South Dining Hall.

The University’s intent  in hosting the luncheon and presenting community awards during Black History Month is to help carry on King’s legacy by recognizing and honoring individuals such as Brown and Smith  for keeping King’s “dreams” alive.

As in past annual King lunches at Edinboro University, the Master of Ceremonies, Dr. Kahan Sablo, Vice President for Student Affairs, will help preside over additional award presentations to Edinboro students who have been declared winners in the annual Expressions of Remembrance Contest.

In addition to musical selections from the United Voices of Edinboro, the reading of one of Dr. King’s speeches, essays, or sermons has become a cherished part of this annual celebration. This year’s reading was delivered by Dr. King April 10, 1957, during the St. Louis Freedom Rally in Missouri and has come to be known as his “A Realistic Look at the Question of Progress in the Area of Race Relations” speech.

Past Edinboro University Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Award recipients include: Pearl Jeffries, Gregory Myers, Harold C. Shields, Mother Mary Beth Kennedy, Sonya Arrington, Howard Horton, Cathy Hutchinson, Judge  Stephanie Domitrovich, Homer Smith, John Horan, The Rev. John Foster, Mary Alice Brown, Bruce Morton Wright, The Rev. Dr. Eugene Schoolfield, Bishop Dwane Brock, Mildred Horton, Erie County Judge George Levin, Francine G. McNairy, Bishop Jesse Gavin, Elmore “Cootie” Harris, James Drane, Charles Faulkerson, Rubye Jenkins-Husband, Dorothy Smith-Frazier, Esther Bush,  Gary Horton, The Rev. Herlies Murphy, The Rev. Jesse McFarland, The Rev. Acquanetta Osborne, Melvin Witherspoon, Gertrude Barber, Bishop William Clark, R. Benjamin Wiley, Reuben Butler, Celestine Bell Davis, Vincent Jenco, Larry Meredith, Fred Williams, The Rev. Charles Mock, Umeme Sababu, Susan Wellman, Eron DeLeon Soto, Ronald Steele, and Bobby Harrison.

The annual luncheon was created in 1997 to celebrate King’s legacy and to honor northwestern Pennsylvania citizens who embody King’s spirit, philosophy, and teachings.
(Note to news directors and assigning editors: Coverage is encouraged; photo and interview opportunities will be available prior to the event at a reception for previous award winners, and immediately preceding and following the luncheon. Photo and video opportunities will be available throughout the luncheon.)

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ELEVEN TEACHERS HONORED FOR EXCELLENCE DURING ECU’S STOKES LECTURE

ECU's mission is to foster a learning environment in which students,
faculty, staff and community interact to educate students for life.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

East Central University Communications and Marketing580-559-5650 or 405-812-1428 (cell)

Eleven teachers were recently honored during East Central University’s Marvin Stokes Endowed Lecture, hosted by East Central University’s College of Education and Psychology. Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year for 2012, Elaine Hutchison, delivered the lecture. The area teachers, noted for teaching excellence, were: Donna Nickell, Vanoss High School (left to right, front row); Marcy Jack, Ada Early Childhood Center; Sabre Dixon, Shawnee Middle School; Hutchison, of Fairview Public Schools and 2012 Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year; Genise Fridrich, Prague Early Childhood Center; and Katrina Lewis, Allen Public Schools. On the back row (left to right) are: Brenda Walling, Dean of the ECU College of Education and Psychology; Nancy McAfee, Stratford Public Schools; Sandy Hetherington, Davis Middle School; Brenda Roberts, Homer Elementary/Byng; Chad Chronister, Pauls Valley High School; and Dr. Duane Anderson, ECU Provost and Vice-President for Academic Affairs. Not pictured are Michelle Ellison, Latta Public Schools and Breanna Sanford, Ethel Reed Elementary School in Holdenville.

- # # # -

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Edinboro University prof, student bring computer-generated animation technology to courtroom during murder trial

12/19/2012

It’s not just about Disney or Pixar anymore.

Edinboro University’s highly regarded computer animation program – already leading students to a variety of successful careers in film production – recently made its debut in an Erie County courtroom during a highly publicized murder trial.

Prosecutors used computer-generated animation produced by an Edinboro professor and student to allow the jury to view not only the external dimensions of the apartment building where the murder took place, but also the internal structure. The animation clearly illustrated the scene for the jury in a way that still photographs, or even standard video, could not.

Several months ago, Erie County Assistant District Attorney Brian Krowicki reached out to Assistant Professor of Computer Animation Steven Carpenter with a request: With the late fall murder trial of Rachel A. Kozloff approaching, could Carpenter use computer animation modeling to help the jury better understand the apartment building in which Michael Henry was murdered last April 12?

Carpenter was up for the challenge. Teaming with senior computer animation student Ryan Dugan, a graduate of Erie’s Cathedral Preparatory School, the professor answered the call with a professional quality prosecution exhibit that gave the jury a better understanding of the scene.

“We met at the building with District Attorney Jack Daneri and took extensive measurements,” Carpenter explained. “We diagrammed the entire building, and Ryan modeled it.”

Carpenter said the production, which “took off the outer walls,” allowed jurors to see the interior of the building while highlighting the four entryways leading to the second-floor apartments. Prosecutors used the production to show the jury that the defendant could not have entered or departed the building in the way she described.

“It’s a fairly large building, and it would have been difficult to give the jury members an understanding of it from just photographs. What we produced was very clear to them.” Carpenter emphasized that he and Dugan used just basic textures in their production so as not to make the animation distracting. “We just wanted it to be clear and understandable for the jury.”

As a result of the animated production, the defendant’s story changed somewhat during the trial, and the jury’s verdict was guilty.

“We were very impressed with Professor Carpenter, Mr. Dugan and the entire Edinboro University computer animation program,” ADA Krowicki said.

In a letter to Carpenter, copied to Edinboro University President Julie E. Wollman, District Attorney Daneri and Krowicki wrote, “The computer-generated diagram of the crime scene your department created was critical to the jury understanding the building’s layout. This, in turn, allowed the prosecution to highlight numerous pieces of evidence relating to the whereabouts of the defendant, victim and witnesses at the time of the murder.”

Daneri said he plans to seek the same kind of assistance again.

“This was our office’s ‘maiden voyage’ with such technology,” he wrote. “Much appreciation to you and Ryan for your cooperation, initiative and – patience. I fully expect our prosecutors will take advantage of the benefits computer generated imaging provides in the courtroom. We hope we can call on your department in the future. Again, thank you for a job extremely well done.”

Carpenter said the project will be a valuable addition to Dugan’s portfolio when he graduates in the spring.

Edinboro’s Art Department animation program has long been recognized as one of the best in the nation, with the names of many graduates appearing in the credits for virtually every major studio’s animated film production in recent years.

Yet, Carpenter agrees it’s not just about working for Disney or Pixar.

“There are many fields and practical applications for careers in computer animation,” he said. “This experience shows just one of those applications.”

The computer animation professor said he will consider answering the DA’s call again, especially because of the valuable practical experience it provides for students.

“In fact, we’d like to develop a class on forensic animation.”

Learn more about Edinboro University’s computer animation program and more than 100 other majors by logging on to www.edinboro.edu.

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Edinboro University graduates 528 students - During Saturday’s Master’s/Undergraduate ceremonies

12/15/2012

Edinboro University President Julie E. Wollman conferred graduate and undergraduate degrees upon 528 students during separate commencement ceremonies Saturday. It was Wollman’s first Edinboro commencement since becoming the University’s 17th president earlier this year.

Following the ceremonial procession of faculty and graduating students during the morning’s undergraduate ceremony at McComb Fieldhouse, President Wollman conferred upon students 357 bachelor’s degrees and 21 associate degrees. During the afternoon graduate ceremony the historic Louis C. Cole Auditorium-Memorial Hall, she conferred upon students 150 master’s degrees.

Edinboro’s chief academic officer, Dr. Michael J. Hannan, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, convened both morning and afternoon ceremonies.

At the morning ceremony, President Wollman told the graduates, “Your education is the University’s purpose. Your success is our success. Neither ends here. As each of you pursues a career or advanced degree, you will continue to build on the solid foundation of your Edinboro education and the values you were steeped in here: community service, commitment to diversity, respect, responsibility, integrity, curiosity and, yes, excellence.

“You came here to be transformed into better people than you thought you could be when you arrived on campus. I know that you leave us ready to make the world a better place.”

The Undergraduate Commencement Address was delivered by John E. Brown, founder in 1989 of Hospice of Crawford County, the only such hospice program in the region at the time. Brown, a writer, ordained minister, pastoral counselor and musician, served as Hospice of Crawford County’s first CEO, pastoral counselor and music therapist.

“Life can only be understood backward, but must be lived forward,” he told the Class of 2012. He described success as “doing what you love to do and making a living at it.” Being successful in a job, he said, can be greatly lacking without “soul satisfaction.”

Following Brown’s address, Rachel Cracolici-Valentine of Edinboro, who received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and graduated Cum Laude, delivered the student address.

She told her fellow graduates, “ … today, all of our efforts and hard work will pay off, I am more than certain. We have all worked very hard to get to where we are today. … and whether it be from a textbook or lecture, or perhaps outside the classroom, we have grown from our experiences. … let us all take what we have gained here and make great things happen out there, in our community.

“I am ecstatic to say that today, I along with all of you, will officially be an Edinboro University alum – Class of 2012!”

Interim Provost Hannon, Dr. Scott E. Miller, Acting Dean, School of Business, Dr. Susan Curtin, Associate Dean, School of Education, and Dr. Terry L. Smith, Dean, College of Arts and Sciences, then presented to President Wollman candidates for degrees.

At the ceremony’s conclusion, Joseph Mineo, President of the Edinboro University Alumni Association’s Board of Directors, welcome the University’s newest alumni to the growing alumni network of some 60,000 graduates.

A total of 71 academic majors were represented by the December 2012 graduating class. The largest number of students graduated with degrees in education, art, business administration, nursing and criminal justice.

During the afternoon graduate ceremony, the student address was delivered by Rachel Diane Freund of Cary, North Carolina, who earned a Master of Education in Reading degree.

Drs. Hannan, Smith and Curtin, along with Dr. Alan J. Biel, Dean, School of Graduate Studies and Research, presented candidates for degrees to President Wollman.

Between the Master’s and Undergraduate Commencements, President Wollman greeted graduating students and their families at a Commencement Brunch at Van Houten Dining Hall.

December Commencement participants

Leading the academic procession and representing his faculty colleagues by carrying the Ceremonial Mace for the Master’s Commencement was Dr. Joel Erion of Edinboro University’s Professional Studies Department. Dr. Kathleen Benson, Chair of Edinboro’s Elementary, Middle and Secondary Education Department, was the Mace Bearer for the Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony.

The distinction of being mace bearer emphasizes the importance of faculty in Edinboro’s academic environment, where learning is preeminent, and is symbolic of the central role which faculty play in the academic and personal development of Edinboro students.

Music during the Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony was provided by Edinboro’s Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Dr. Gary Grant, conductor, and the University Chorale, Dr. Peter van den Honert, conductor. For the Graduate Commencement Ceremony, music was provided by the Edinboro University Pipe and Drums. The student leader for the National Anthem and Alma Mater at the Undergraduate Ceremony was Tara Hart. Will Steadman led the National Anthem at the Master’s Ceremony.

Nurses honored during pinning ceremony event

Following Saturday’s formal Commencement, students graduating with nursing degrees were recognized during a traditional pinning ceremony at Van Houten South Dining Hall. Nursing faculty member Victoria Hedderick served as M.C., and Dr. Amy McClune delivered the faculty address.

The current nursing graduates are among the first to experience the new Jeremy D. Brown Human Services Building, designed to meet the specialized needs of the Nursing Department.

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Edinboro University to honor two community leaders during Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Luncheon

01/31/2013

Edinboro University and President Julie E. Wollman will honor two community leaders for their lifetimes of serving others during Edinboro’s 17th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Luncheon on Friday, February 8.

Jacqueline Brown is being recognized for her service and contributions as the Deputy Chief of the Erie Police Support Service Division, and Bishop Stanley K. Smith, Pastor of  Meadville’s St. John Missionary Full Gospel Church and State Bishop of Pennsylvania of the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International, will be honored for his nearly two decades of exemplary community service.

Brown was selected by the University’s Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Luncheon  Committee because she dedicated herself to making a difference in the lives of youth and adults. A distinguished woman making history in the City of Erie, Brown accepted the position of Deputy Chief of Police of the Support Services Division of the Erie Bureau of Police in 2001. As an esteemed officer, she supervised police officers in three major detective divisions.

She is known as a present-day “Drum Major” because of her many major contributions advancing justice, and for having demonstrated throughout her career what it takes to improve and empower youth and adults alike by providing mentoring, education and training.

Her initiative and leadership reached out to minorities – men and women – who sought employment opportunities at all levels in the police department and correctional facilities, improving hiring practices at both that continue to this day.

Bishop Smith, who was born in Erie, was selected for the annual King Award because he has dedicated himself to improving the lives of countless others through his initiation of community outreach in myriad ways in Meadville and beyond. His contagious personality and innovative approach are known not only locally, but throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Serving the Meadville community and surrounding counties for nearly two decades, his vision, ministry and guidance initiated local efforts toward Breast Cancer Awareness education and other efforts to address health-related issues.

Among his many initiatives, Bishop  Smith established an annual 5K Run/Walk to benefit those with breast cancer, scholarship awards to encourage women in the “non-traditional” student category to pursue higher education, and the El Shaddai Clothing Outreach Ministry to aid women, infants and children in need.
The award recipients were chosen by Edinboro’s King Awards Luncheon Committee for recognition by the University for their unwavering dedication to social equality, peaceful community activism and education, exemplifying the ideals of the late civil rights leader, King, and for personifying his dream.

The luncheon will be held February 8 from noon to 1:30 p.m. in Edinboro’s Van Houten South Dining Hall.

The University’s intent  in hosting the luncheon and presenting community awards during Black History Month is to help carry on King’s legacy by recognizing and honoring individuals such as Brown and Smith  for keeping King’s “dreams” alive.

As in past annual King lunches at Edinboro University, the Master of Ceremonies, Dr. Kahan Sablo, Vice President for Student Affairs, will help preside over additional award presentations to Edinboro students who have been declared winners in the annual Expressions of Remembrance Contest.

In addition to musical selections from the United Voices of Edinboro, the reading of one of Dr. King’s speeches, essays, or sermons has become a cherished part of this annual celebration. This year’s reading was delivered by Dr. King April 10, 1957, during the St. Louis Freedom Rally in Missouri and has come to be known as his “A Realistic Look at the Question of Progress in the Area of Race Relations” speech.

Past Edinboro University Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Award recipients include: Pearl Jeffries, Gregory Myers, Harold C. Shields, Mother Mary Beth Kennedy, Sonya Arrington, Howard Horton, Cathy Hutchinson, Judge  Stephanie Domitrovich, Homer Smith, John Horan, The Rev. John Foster, Mary Alice Brown, Bruce Morton Wright, The Rev. Dr. Eugene Schoolfield, Bishop Dwane Brock, Mildred Horton, Erie County Judge George Levin, Francine G. McNairy, Bishop Jesse Gavin, Elmore “Cootie” Harris, James Drane, Charles Faulkerson, Rubye Jenkins-Husband, Dorothy Smith-Frazier, Esther Bush,  Gary Horton, The Rev. Herlies Murphy, The Rev. Jesse McFarland, The Rev. Acquanetta Osborne, Melvin Witherspoon, Gertrude Barber, Bishop William Clark, R. Benjamin Wiley, Reuben Butler, Celestine Bell Davis, Vincent Jenco, Larry Meredith, Fred Williams, The Rev. Charles Mock, Umeme Sababu, Susan Wellman, Eron DeLeon Soto, Ronald Steele, and Bobby Harrison.

The annual luncheon was created in 1997 to celebrate King’s legacy and to honor northwestern Pennsylvania citizens who embody King’s spirit, philosophy, and teachings.
(Note to news directors and assigning editors: Coverage is encouraged; photo and interview opportunities will be available prior to the event at a reception for previous award winners, and immediately preceding and following the luncheon. Photo and video opportunities will be available throughout the luncheon.)

View the original article here

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ELEVEN TEACHERS HONORED FOR EXCELLENCE DURING ECU’S STOKES LECTURE

ECU's mission is to foster a learning environment in which students,
faculty, staff and community interact to educate students for life.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

East Central University Communications and Marketing580-559-5650 or 405-812-1428 (cell)

Eleven teachers were recently honored during East Central University’s Marvin Stokes Endowed Lecture, hosted by East Central University’s College of Education and Psychology. Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year for 2012, Elaine Hutchison, delivered the lecture. The area teachers, noted for teaching excellence, were: Donna Nickell, Vanoss High School (left to right, front row); Marcy Jack, Ada Early Childhood Center; Sabre Dixon, Shawnee Middle School; Hutchison, of Fairview Public Schools and 2012 Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year; Genise Fridrich, Prague Early Childhood Center; and Katrina Lewis, Allen Public Schools. On the back row (left to right) are: Brenda Walling, Dean of the ECU College of Education and Psychology; Nancy McAfee, Stratford Public Schools; Sandy Hetherington, Davis Middle School; Brenda Roberts, Homer Elementary/Byng; Chad Chronister, Pauls Valley High School; and Dr. Duane Anderson, ECU Provost and Vice-President for Academic Affairs. Not pictured are Michelle Ellison, Latta Public Schools and Breanna Sanford, Ethel Reed Elementary School in Holdenville.

- # # # -

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ELEVEN TEACHERS HONORED FOR EXCELLENCE DURING ECU’S STOKES LECTURE

ECU's mission is to foster a learning environment in which students,
faculty, staff and community interact to educate students for life.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

East Central University Communications and Marketing580-559-5650 or 405-812-1428 (cell)

Eleven teachers were recently honored during East Central University’s Marvin Stokes Endowed Lecture, hosted by East Central University’s College of Education and Psychology. Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year for 2012, Elaine Hutchison, delivered the lecture. The area teachers, noted for teaching excellence, were: Donna Nickell, Vanoss High School (left to right, front row); Marcy Jack, Ada Early Childhood Center; Sabre Dixon, Shawnee Middle School; Hutchison, of Fairview Public Schools and 2012 Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year; Genise Fridrich, Prague Early Childhood Center; and Katrina Lewis, Allen Public Schools. On the back row (left to right) are: Brenda Walling, Dean of the ECU College of Education and Psychology; Nancy McAfee, Stratford Public Schools; Sandy Hetherington, Davis Middle School; Brenda Roberts, Homer Elementary/Byng; Chad Chronister, Pauls Valley High School; and Dr. Duane Anderson, ECU Provost and Vice-President for Academic Affairs. Not pictured are Michelle Ellison, Latta Public Schools and Breanna Sanford, Ethel Reed Elementary School in Holdenville.

- # # # -

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ELEVEN TEACHERS HONORED FOR EXCELLENCE DURING ECU’S STOKES LECTURE

ECU's mission is to foster a learning environment in which students,
faculty, staff and community interact to educate students for life.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

East Central University Communications and Marketing580-559-5650 or 405-812-1428 (cell)

Eleven teachers were recently honored during East Central University’s Marvin Stokes Endowed Lecture, hosted by East Central University’s College of Education and Psychology. Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year for 2012, Elaine Hutchison, delivered the lecture. The area teachers, noted for teaching excellence, were: Donna Nickell, Vanoss High School (left to right, front row); Marcy Jack, Ada Early Childhood Center; Sabre Dixon, Shawnee Middle School; Hutchison, of Fairview Public Schools and 2012 Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year; Genise Fridrich, Prague Early Childhood Center; and Katrina Lewis, Allen Public Schools. On the back row (left to right) are: Brenda Walling, Dean of the ECU College of Education and Psychology; Nancy McAfee, Stratford Public Schools; Sandy Hetherington, Davis Middle School; Brenda Roberts, Homer Elementary/Byng; Chad Chronister, Pauls Valley High School; and Dr. Duane Anderson, ECU Provost and Vice-President for Academic Affairs. Not pictured are Michelle Ellison, Latta Public Schools and Breanna Sanford, Ethel Reed Elementary School in Holdenville.

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Edinboro University seeks nominations for 2012 Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards - Recipients honored during annual MLK Luncheon

11/16/2012

Know of someone whose contributions to society reflect the spirit, philosophy and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.? If so, you might want to nominate such a man or woman to become a recipient of Edinboro University’s 17th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards.

Edinboro University is now accepting nominations for the MLK awards, which will be presented during the University’s annual awards luncheon on Friday, February 8, 2013. Several dozen prominent citizens from northwestern Pennsylvania have been honored by the University since the awards luncheon began in 1997.

Nominations must contain a narrative description of the candidate’s achievements and contributions to society with specific examples listed. Achievements and contributions also must be reflective of Dr. King’s philosophy and teachings, in particular in the area of social justice, social activism or peace initiatives.

Nominations should also include the candidate’s career profile or resumé, and all contact information for both the nominee and the nominator.

All nominations should be submitted to Edinboro University Vice President for Student Affairs Kahan Sablo, c/o Ms. Cyndi Waldinger, 218 Frank G. Pogue Student Center, 405 Scotland Road, Edinboro, PA 16444. Completed nominations can be e-mailed to cwaldinger@edinboro.edu.

To be eligible for consideration, all nominations must be received by the close of business on Friday, December 7, 2012.

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Edinboro University graduates 528 students - During Saturday’s Master’s/Undergraduate ceremonies

12/15/2012

Edinboro University President Julie E. Wollman conferred graduate and undergraduate degrees upon 528 students during separate commencement ceremonies Saturday. It was Wollman’s first Edinboro commencement since becoming the University’s 17th president earlier this year.

Following the ceremonial procession of faculty and graduating students during the morning’s undergraduate ceremony at McComb Fieldhouse, President Wollman conferred upon students 357 bachelor’s degrees and 21 associate degrees. During the afternoon graduate ceremony the historic Louis C. Cole Auditorium-Memorial Hall, she conferred upon students 150 master’s degrees.

Edinboro’s chief academic officer, Dr. Michael J. Hannan, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, convened both morning and afternoon ceremonies.

At the morning ceremony, President Wollman told the graduates, “Your education is the University’s purpose. Your success is our success. Neither ends here. As each of you pursues a career or advanced degree, you will continue to build on the solid foundation of your Edinboro education and the values you were steeped in here: community service, commitment to diversity, respect, responsibility, integrity, curiosity and, yes, excellence.

“You came here to be transformed into better people than you thought you could be when you arrived on campus. I know that you leave us ready to make the world a better place.”

The Undergraduate Commencement Address was delivered by John E. Brown, founder in 1989 of Hospice of Crawford County, the only such hospice program in the region at the time. Brown, a writer, ordained minister, pastoral counselor and musician, served as Hospice of Crawford County’s first CEO, pastoral counselor and music therapist.

“Life can only be understood backward, but must be lived forward,” he told the Class of 2012. He described success as “doing what you love to do and making a living at it.” Being successful in a job, he said, can be greatly lacking without “soul satisfaction.”

Following Brown’s address, Rachel Cracolici-Valentine of Edinboro, who received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and graduated Cum Laude, delivered the student address.

She told her fellow graduates, “ … today, all of our efforts and hard work will pay off, I am more than certain. We have all worked very hard to get to where we are today. … and whether it be from a textbook or lecture, or perhaps outside the classroom, we have grown from our experiences. … let us all take what we have gained here and make great things happen out there, in our community.

“I am ecstatic to say that today, I along with all of you, will officially be an Edinboro University alum – Class of 2012!”

Interim Provost Hannon, Dr. Scott E. Miller, Acting Dean, School of Business, Dr. Susan Curtin, Associate Dean, School of Education, and Dr. Terry L. Smith, Dean, College of Arts and Sciences, then presented to President Wollman candidates for degrees.

At the ceremony’s conclusion, Joseph Mineo, President of the Edinboro University Alumni Association’s Board of Directors, welcome the University’s newest alumni to the growing alumni network of some 60,000 graduates.

A total of 71 academic majors were represented by the December 2012 graduating class. The largest number of students graduated with degrees in education, art, business administration, nursing and criminal justice.

During the afternoon graduate ceremony, the student address was delivered by Rachel Diane Freund of Cary, North Carolina, who earned a Master of Education in Reading degree.

Drs. Hannan, Smith and Curtin, along with Dr. Alan J. Biel, Dean, School of Graduate Studies and Research, presented candidates for degrees to President Wollman.

Between the Master’s and Undergraduate Commencements, President Wollman greeted graduating students and their families at a Commencement Brunch at Van Houten Dining Hall.

December Commencement participants

Leading the academic procession and representing his faculty colleagues by carrying the Ceremonial Mace for the Master’s Commencement was Dr. Joel Erion of Edinboro University’s Professional Studies Department. Dr. Kathleen Benson, Chair of Edinboro’s Elementary, Middle and Secondary Education Department, was the Mace Bearer for the Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony.

The distinction of being mace bearer emphasizes the importance of faculty in Edinboro’s academic environment, where learning is preeminent, and is symbolic of the central role which faculty play in the academic and personal development of Edinboro students.

Music during the Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony was provided by Edinboro’s Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Dr. Gary Grant, conductor, and the University Chorale, Dr. Peter van den Honert, conductor. For the Graduate Commencement Ceremony, music was provided by the Edinboro University Pipe and Drums. The student leader for the National Anthem and Alma Mater at the Undergraduate Ceremony was Tara Hart. Will Steadman led the National Anthem at the Master’s Ceremony.

Nurses honored during pinning ceremony event

Following Saturday’s formal Commencement, students graduating with nursing degrees were recognized during a traditional pinning ceremony at Van Houten South Dining Hall. Nursing faculty member Victoria Hedderick served as M.C., and Dr. Amy McClune delivered the faculty address.

The current nursing graduates are among the first to experience the new Jeremy D. Brown Human Services Building, designed to meet the specialized needs of the Nursing Department.

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Edinboro University prof, student bring computer-generated animation technology to courtroom during murder trial

12/19/2012

It’s not just about Disney or Pixar anymore.

Edinboro University’s highly regarded computer animation program – already leading students to a variety of successful careers in film production – recently made its debut in an Erie County courtroom during a highly publicized murder trial.

Prosecutors used computer-generated animation produced by an Edinboro professor and student to allow the jury to view not only the external dimensions of the apartment building where the murder took place, but also the internal structure. The animation clearly illustrated the scene for the jury in a way that still photographs, or even standard video, could not.

Several months ago, Erie County Assistant District Attorney Brian Krowicki reached out to Assistant Professor of Computer Animation Steven Carpenter with a request: With the late fall murder trial of Rachel A. Kozloff approaching, could Carpenter use computer animation modeling to help the jury better understand the apartment building in which Michael Henry was murdered last April 12?

Carpenter was up for the challenge. Teaming with senior computer animation student Ryan Dugan, a graduate of Erie’s Cathedral Preparatory School, the professor answered the call with a professional quality prosecution exhibit that gave the jury a better understanding of the scene.

“We met at the building with District Attorney Jack Daneri and took extensive measurements,” Carpenter explained. “We diagrammed the entire building, and Ryan modeled it.”

Carpenter said the production, which “took off the outer walls,” allowed jurors to see the interior of the building while highlighting the four entryways leading to the second-floor apartments. Prosecutors used the production to show the jury that the defendant could not have entered or departed the building in the way she described.

“It’s a fairly large building, and it would have been difficult to give the jury members an understanding of it from just photographs. What we produced was very clear to them.” Carpenter emphasized that he and Dugan used just basic textures in their production so as not to make the animation distracting. “We just wanted it to be clear and understandable for the jury.”

As a result of the animated production, the defendant’s story changed somewhat during the trial, and the jury’s verdict was guilty.

“We were very impressed with Professor Carpenter, Mr. Dugan and the entire Edinboro University computer animation program,” ADA Krowicki said.

In a letter to Carpenter, copied to Edinboro University President Julie E. Wollman, District Attorney Daneri and Krowicki wrote, “The computer-generated diagram of the crime scene your department created was critical to the jury understanding the building’s layout. This, in turn, allowed the prosecution to highlight numerous pieces of evidence relating to the whereabouts of the defendant, victim and witnesses at the time of the murder.”

Daneri said he plans to seek the same kind of assistance again.

“This was our office’s ‘maiden voyage’ with such technology,” he wrote. “Much appreciation to you and Ryan for your cooperation, initiative and – patience. I fully expect our prosecutors will take advantage of the benefits computer generated imaging provides in the courtroom. We hope we can call on your department in the future. Again, thank you for a job extremely well done.”

Carpenter said the project will be a valuable addition to Dugan’s portfolio when he graduates in the spring.

Edinboro’s Art Department animation program has long been recognized as one of the best in the nation, with the names of many graduates appearing in the credits for virtually every major studio’s animated film production in recent years.

Yet, Carpenter agrees it’s not just about working for Disney or Pixar.

“There are many fields and practical applications for careers in computer animation,” he said. “This experience shows just one of those applications.”

The computer animation professor said he will consider answering the DA’s call again, especially because of the valuable practical experience it provides for students.

“In fact, we’d like to develop a class on forensic animation.”

Learn more about Edinboro University’s computer animation program and more than 100 other majors by logging on to www.edinboro.edu.

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ELEVEN TEACHERS HONORED FOR EXCELLENCE DURING ECU’S STOKES LECTURE

ECU's mission is to foster a learning environment in which students,
faculty, staff and community interact to educate students for life.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

East Central University Communications and Marketing580-559-5650 or 405-812-1428 (cell)

Eleven teachers were recently honored during East Central University’s Marvin Stokes Endowed Lecture, hosted by East Central University’s College of Education and Psychology. Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year for 2012, Elaine Hutchison, delivered the lecture. The area teachers, noted for teaching excellence, were: Donna Nickell, Vanoss High School (left to right, front row); Marcy Jack, Ada Early Childhood Center; Sabre Dixon, Shawnee Middle School; Hutchison, of Fairview Public Schools and 2012 Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year; Genise Fridrich, Prague Early Childhood Center; and Katrina Lewis, Allen Public Schools. On the back row (left to right) are: Brenda Walling, Dean of the ECU College of Education and Psychology; Nancy McAfee, Stratford Public Schools; Sandy Hetherington, Davis Middle School; Brenda Roberts, Homer Elementary/Byng; Chad Chronister, Pauls Valley High School; and Dr. Duane Anderson, ECU Provost and Vice-President for Academic Affairs. Not pictured are Michelle Ellison, Latta Public Schools and Breanna Sanford, Ethel Reed Elementary School in Holdenville.

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ELEVEN TEACHERS HONORED FOR EXCELLENCE DURING ECU’S STOKES LECTURE

ECU's mission is to foster a learning environment in which students,
faculty, staff and community interact to educate students for life.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

East Central University Communications and Marketing580-559-5650 or 405-812-1428 (cell)

Eleven teachers were recently honored during East Central University’s Marvin Stokes Endowed Lecture, hosted by East Central University’s College of Education and Psychology. Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year for 2012, Elaine Hutchison, delivered the lecture. The area teachers, noted for teaching excellence, were: Donna Nickell, Vanoss High School (left to right, front row); Marcy Jack, Ada Early Childhood Center; Sabre Dixon, Shawnee Middle School; Hutchison, of Fairview Public Schools and 2012 Oklahoma State Teacher of the Year; Genise Fridrich, Prague Early Childhood Center; and Katrina Lewis, Allen Public Schools. On the back row (left to right) are: Brenda Walling, Dean of the ECU College of Education and Psychology; Nancy McAfee, Stratford Public Schools; Sandy Hetherington, Davis Middle School; Brenda Roberts, Homer Elementary/Byng; Chad Chronister, Pauls Valley High School; and Dr. Duane Anderson, ECU Provost and Vice-President for Academic Affairs. Not pictured are Michelle Ellison, Latta Public Schools and Breanna Sanford, Ethel Reed Elementary School in Holdenville.

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Snows reflect on serving during Vietnam

NEWS RELEASE
Friday, Nov. 16, 2012
Contact: Steve Rottinghaus, Baker University public relations director, (785) 594-8330 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Since 1993 Dottie Snow has been a guest of honor as part of the spirit assembly at Meadow Lane Elementary School in Lee's Summit, Mo., where she was a music teacher for 18 years until her retirement eight years ago.

Snow, a 1984 Baker graduate who served in Vietnam in the late 1960s, and other veterans and current military members connected to the school receive a proper salute from the students, teachers and staff members during the Veterans Day ceremony. A week ago Snow attended the 20th annual event, which began when she received a surprise send-off from her students and co-workers before traveling to Washington, D.C., for the dedication of the Vietnam Women's Memorial.

At the inaugural assembly in 1993, a teacher lauded Snow, saying "She represents the thousands who put their dreams on hold."

Snow, and her husband, Ken, a 1964 graduate, and a Vietnam vet, truly appreciate how the Meadow Lane event has been sustained for so long.

"I'll never forget when a veteran told me, 'Nobody thanked me for serving until today,'" recalled Dottie, who attended the latest assembly on Nov. 9. "The school does such a fine job of making it a really special event."

As a surgical post-op nurse specializing in maxillofacial injuries, Dottie tended to wounded soldiers for 12 hours a day at the 24th Evacuation Hospital at Long Binh Post, adjacent to a helicopter pad. Dottie volunteered to serve in the army her senior year of nursing school at Methodist-Kahler School of Nursing in Rochester, Minn. She and Ken did not know each other until meeting in the Army.

"You do wild things in love and war," Dottie said of volunteering at the height of the Tet Offensive in 1967-68. "My nursing classmate was already there and told me not to come to Vietnam. It has been emotionally hard for me. For years, I did not talk about the experience."

The Snows were married in Hawaii by Dottie's father, a Lutheran minister, in September 1967 and recently celebrated their 45th anniversary.

After Vietnam, Dottie chose a new career path, focusing on music education. She started taking courses at Baker in 1969, raised a family and completed her degree in 1984.

The Snows' connection to Baker runs deep. After Vietnam, Ken was vice president for admissions and student affairs at his alma mater for nearly 18 years before transitioning to college publications in the mid-1980s. He now serves as a regional director for Carnegie Communications.

The Snows enjoy spending time with their family and friends in the Kansas City area.

More than 40 years after serving, Dottie still remembers having an empty feeling about returning home from Vietnam.

"I always had a need to feel that what I did made a difference and was appreciated," she said.

In photo at right are: first row (left to right) — Baby Dean, Aldon, Baby Brian; second row — Ellie Staatz, Dottie Snow, Ken Snow, Liam Snow; third row — Steph, Mason and Rylee Staatz, Nicki; back row: Scott Staatz and Jon Snow.

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Baker University is committed to assuring student learning, and developing confident, competent and responsible contributors to society.

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