University Artisans Share Their Talents at Staff Showcase

It's not every day that a baby sock becomes a rosebud and rescue cats raise their paws in high-fives. At the University's first-ever Staff Showcase today, talented members of the University community explained how both feats are possible.

For a few hours in the DeNaples Center Ballroom, thanks to a new event organized by the Staff Senate, colleagues presented their pastimes, talents and side pursuits and in some cases, explained or demonstrated them as well.

Rose Termini, a crafter since 1991, assembled the aforementioned rosebud for the crowd gathered at her booth in a matter of moments. Though she has worked on a variety of projects through the years, the baby shower creations are her specialty.

"This is the craft that stuck," said Termini, who also displayed a tricycle transformed from diapers and stuffed toys. She is a Disability Support Specialist at the University.

On the other side of the ballroom, Tammy Manka explained cat behavior and shared the inspiration behind the name of her business, Hi 5 Cat Training. A longtime cat caregiver and rescuer, Manka recently earned a cat training certification and pet nutrition certificate from Animal Behavior College in Valencia, California. 

"In September I did my test and got my certification," she said. After caring for pets of her own, she decided to learn more about effectively training them using positive reinforcement techniques. As for the business name, Manka said that she trained a group of cats at a friend's shelter to raise their paws in high fives. She also shared a video of other feline behavior modification techniques. Manka is an academic advisor and coordinator of graduate services for the Panuska College of Professional Studies at the University. 

At another booth, Hans Christianson showcased pieces that combined his woodworking talent and love for comic books. The Director of Enrollment Marketing for the University said his wife is also an avid crafter.

Bridget Conlogue, special collections and research services assistant at the University's Weinberg Memorial Library, displayed examples of historical reproduction clothing worn from 1810-1920. 

"Our goal is to bring the staff together and celebrate our skills and talents while we enjoy one another," said Staff Senate Vice President and Secretary Traci E. Vennie G’19.

Vennie said she and the members of the committee were pleased with the turnout of attendees and crafters at the showcase. She thanked all who attended, as well as the committee members and chairs who dedicated their efforts over the past months to make the event possible. In addition to Vennie, the committee included Pete Sakowski and Brenda Clarke, and chairs Meg Hambrose and Gerri Barber. 

Shown, above, from left, are three members of The Staff Showcase committee: Grismeiris DeJesus, Brenda Clarke and Traci Vennie.