Faculty News

University of Scranton biology professors offer some tips to make your holiday gift-giving and season a little more “green” from a sustainability perspective – with many tips also saving some “green” in your wallet.

Greening Your Gifts

Janice Voltzow, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Biology Department and director of the University’s Magis Honors Program in STEM, suggests “giving personal gift certificates good for babysitting, a home-cooked meal, or house cleaning rather than buying more stuff that will accumulate. The certificates can be written on scraps of fancy paper or old wrapping paper.”

David Ingber, Ph.D., faculty specialist in the Biology Department, suggests gifting “experiences instead of items. Things like concert or event tickets, spa gift cards, cooking/art class sign ups, or park memberships can be impactful and have no upfront material costs.”

He also suggests considering digital memberships which can be customized based on the personal interests of the recipient.

“It’s another great way to go really niche and tailor a gift to the person you are giving it to, while avoiding upfront environmental costs,” said Dr. Ingber. He also suggests gifting baked goods – or even going “fossil hunting or rock hounding” for friends interested in geology or paleontology.

Both Drs. Voltzow and Ingber suggest wrapping presents in cloth sacks or re-using wrapping paper, tissue paper, ribbons and gift bags.

“This keeps them out of the landfill and prevents buying more every year. You can tear the front off of holiday cards you receive this year and use them as gift tags next year,” said Dr. Voltzow.

Greening Your Holiday

For “greening” your holiday, Dr. Voltzow’s suggestions include buying a locally-grown live tree and decorating it with re-useable, non-plastic ornaments, or with ornaments you crafted from natural, compostable materials.

Dr. Ingber suggests avoiding food waste and being mindful of leftovers.

“Don’t let good food go to waste, keep an eye on what leftovers you have in the fridge, rotating the oldest to the front so they are easily accessible. This way, you’re not letting any delicious morsels go bad, and you can cook less overall, which saves energy and money,” said Dr. Ingber.

The professors also suggest using food from local farms for your meals – and putting your outdoor lights on a timer.

“Spread all the holiday cheer you want, but fewer people are going to see your outdoor decorations at 3 a.m. Setting a timer to shut down your lights and decorations in the wee hours and then turning them back on the following evening can save you energy and effort,” said Dr. Ingber.

Bonus Holiday Health Tip

Maintaining weight between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day is the optimum goal, according to an OpEd published in Healthcare Business Today by Joan Grossman, Ph.D., associate professor of health and human performance at The University of Scranton.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded a $1.8 million collaborative grant to Nathaniel Frissell, Ph.D., associate professor physics and engineering at The University of Scranton, to provide sophisticated atmospheric measuring equipment to a nationwide network of ham radio enthusiast and citizen scientists that he developed. Dr. Frissell will serve as the lead principal investigator of the collaborative grant and will work with colleagues at Case Western Reserve University, the University of Alabama and the New Jersey Institute of Technology.

The grant will further the collective data gathering capabilities of the Ham Radio Science Citizen Investigation project led by Dr. Frissell.

“The grant will establish the only wide-spread, coordinated high frequency, very low frequency and ground magnetometer measurement network that is distributed primarily across the midlatitude region,” said Dr. Frissell.

According to Dr. Frissell, the grant supports the development of a network of 30 standardized receive stations capable of observing high frequency (HF) Doppler shifts, HF amateur radio Weak Signal Propagation Reporter (WSPR, pronounced “whisper”) transmissions, very low frequency (VLF) transmissions and natural radio emissions, and the geomagnetic field.

The enhanced capabilities to collect data on the Earth’s ionosphere for this project builds on the HamSCI Personal Space Weather Station network of licensed amateur radio operators who have helped measure the effects of weather in the upper levels of Earth’s atmosphere through a $1.3 million NSF funded project previously awarded to Dr. Frissell.

According to Dr. Frissell, the new NSF grant will support systems that will be deployed to high-quality, low-noise sites throughout the previously established U.S. personal weather station sites that are most suitable to increasing measurement density and the quality of the current network.

“Priority will be given to locations that can simultaneously and effectively operate all three HF, VLF, and magnetometer instruments,” said Dr. Frissell.

The grant also supports ten fully-automated, Global Positioning System (GPS) disciplined amateur radio WSPRSonde transmitters to serve as a new source of GPS- stabilized high frequency beacon signals.

“These signals will be utilized not only by this project’s personal weather station receivers, but also by the existing global WSPR amateur radio receiver network that provides millions of daily observations,” said Dr. Frissell who explained data collected from all the instruments will be uploaded for HamSCI research. He said the data will also be publicly available.

Collaborators for the project include: Majid Mokhtari, senior laboratory engineer for the Physics and Engineering Department, The University of Scranton; Christian Zorman, Ph.D., associate dean for research, and professor of electrical, computer and systems engineering, Case Western Reserve University; Kristina Collins, Ph.D., research scientist, Space Science Institute; Travis Atkison, Ph.D., associate professor of computer science, University of Alabama; William Engelke, chief architect and engineer of the Personal Space Weather Station (PSWS) project, University of Alabama; Hyomin Kim, Ph.D., assistant professor of physics, New Jersey Institute of Technology; and Gareth Perry, Ph.D., assistant professor of physics New Jersey Institute of Technology; in addition to HamSCI volunteers and collaborators.

A space physicist, Dr. Frissell’s research focuses on the ionosphere, which is an atmospheric region that extends from about 50 to 600 miles above the earth’s surface. According to Dr. Frissell, changes in the ionosphere alter the behavior of radio wave propagation and greatly affect the radio communications and global navigation satellite systems. Understanding ionospheric structures and processes will lead to an increased understanding and prediction of these effects.

Through numerous grants he has received in the past five years from the National Science Foundation (NSF), NASA, the Amateur Radio Digital Communications (ARDC) foundation and other organizations, Dr. Frissell, physics and engineering faculty and students, as well as community volunteers, have been involved in numerous research projects, including one of just five projects selected by NASA’s Citizen Science Investigations to study the effects of the total solar eclipse on the earth’s ionosphere.

Grants have also supported the development of state-of-the-art amateur radio station W3USR on the fifth floor of the Loyola Science Center on campus.

Dr. Frissell joined the faculty at Scranton in 2019. He received his bachelor’s degree from Montclair State University, and his master’s degree and doctorate from Virginia Tech.

The 23rd Annual U.S. Conference on Disability at The University of Scranton, titled “The Rehabilitation Act: Learning From Our Past, Knowing Our Present, and Building Our Future,” featured nationally respected speakers addressing access, advocacy and employment in the age of artificial intelligence.

Lori Bruch, Ed.D, associate professor, Counseling and Human Services Department, and faculty fellow, Office of the Provost, received the inaugural Ralph N. Pacinelli, Ed.D., Award, presented at the conference in honor of the lifelong leader in vocational rehabilitation.

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Dr. Bruch joined the University faculty full-time in 1995, having previously served as an adjunct professor at Scranton since 1989. She has served as chair of the Counseling and Human Services Department since 2015. She also served as co-chair of the University’s annual Conference on Disability for more than a decade.

Earlier this year, she received the University’s Excellence for University Service and Leadership Award, which recognizes a faculty member who has contributed service to the University community, particularly those who demonstrate academic leadership by effectively mentoring their junior colleagues.

Dr. Bruch’s research interests include the American’s with Disabilities Act, employment of individuals with disabilities, attitudes towards persons with disabilities, professional identity for rehabilitation counselors, rehabilitation counseling curriculum, supervision and accreditation, and life span development. She has published nearly 20 articles in academic journals and had presented at more than 40 conferences and meetings.

Dr. Bruch is a member of many national and regional organizations, having served as a board member and chair of the Council on Rehabilitation Education, president of the National Association of Rehabilitation Leadership and president of the Pennsylvania Rehabilitation Association, to name just a few.

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Speakers at the Conference on Disability included Carol Dobak, deputy commissioner of the U.S. Rehabilitation Services Administration in the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services; Alison Levy, director of the Office of Technical and Information Services at the U.S. Access Board; Kathy West-Evans, director of business relations for the National Employment Team of the Council of State Administrators of Vocational Rehabilitation; John Evans, recently retired Vocational Rehabilitation program administrator for employee relations for the State of Washington Department Social Health Services Division of Vocational Rehabilitation; and Gary Karp disability awareness speaker, trainer, consultant and author of “Life On Wheels: For the Active Wheelchair User.” University of Scranton professors Kathy Stefanelli, Ph.D., counseling and human services and Renée Hakim, Ph.D., chair and program director of physical therapy at Scranton, also presented at the conference.

The conference was presented by the University’s Leahy College of Health Sciences and the Edward R. Leahy Jr. Endowment. Conference co-chairs were Rebecca Dalgin, Ph.D., professor and chair of the University’s Department of Counseling and Human Services, and Dr. Bruch. University benefactors Edward R. and Patricia Leahy served as honorary conference co-chairs.

State-of-the-art biological instrumentation will soon be added to The University of Scranton’s science laboratories, which are already recognized among best facilities in America, courtesy of a half-million-dollar plus National Science Foundation (NSF) grant.

University biology professors were awarded a $551,957 NSF Major Research Instrumentation grant for the purchase an Olympus FV4000 Confocal Microscope System that will be used to enhance teaching and cutting-edge research in multiple biological fields for undergraduate and graduate students.

Ashley Driver, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, is the principal investigator for the grant. Her colleagues in the University’s Biology Department are co-principal investigators: Marc Seid, Ph.D., professor of biology; Jong-Hyun Son, Ph.D., associate professor of biology; and Joseph Brague, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology.

“The confocal microscope system will allow for higher resolution and more rapid imaging of cells and tissues, as well as time-lapse imaging, and controlled-culture conditions that will support multiple research programs investigating questions in cellular biology, neurobiology, microbiology, molecular biology, parasitology and physiology,” said Dr. Driver, who noted the instrument will be integrated into multiple upper-level biology courses to enhance research experiences to undergraduate and graduate students in STEM fields.

“The use of this equipment by our students in their coursework and research projects will give them advanced microscopy experience at the undergraduate level,” said Dr. Driver. “It will make our students competitive for top-tiered graduate programs, as well as positioning them well for industry research positions.”

Dr. Driver said the microscope system’s efficiency in image acquisition and analysis of multiple sample types will broaden the access for students to learn directly from their experiments conducted in lab courses.

“We chose the system that was most amenable for student use in order to allow them hands-on experience in obtaining meaningful information for their course laboratory experiments, as well as in their independent research projects,” said Dr. Driver. “We are training students, our future scientists, to be drivers of research. This instrumentation system will further enhance their learning experience at Scranton.”

According to Dr. Driver, the microscope system will also be accessible to faculty members at other universities in the Scranton area who lack access to this type of equipment. The instrument will also be incorporated into workshops and summer research programs for high school students.

Dr. Driver joined the University in 2020. She received a bachelor’s degree and a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Dr. Brague joined the faculty at Scranton in 2022. He received a bachelor’s degree from The University of Scranton and a Ph.D. from Lehigh University. Dr. Seid joined the faculty at the University in 2010. He received a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from Brigham Young University, and a Ph.D. from Boston University. Dr. Son joined the faculty at Scranton in 2017. He received a bachelor’s degree from Dankook University, a master’s degree from Western Illinois University, and a Ph.D. from Texas A and M University of the Health Sciences.

The Olympus FV4000 Confocal Microscope System is expected to be installed later this semester.

The University of Scranton has appointed 22 new full-time faculty members for the 2024-2025 academic year.

            Michael Catalano, Ph.D., was named an assistant professor in the Political Science Department. He was most recently a lecturer in the Department of Political Science at Binghamton University, where he also had been a pre-law advising associate, pre-law advisor and an instructor of record. He earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and environmental studies at Gettysburg College and a master’s degree and Ph.D. in political science at Binghamton University (SUNY). He has an extensive publication history that includes peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, working papers, book reviews and conference presentations.

            Kristina Dorkoski, DPT, was named a faculty specialist in the Physical Therapy Department. She is a board-certified neurologic clinical specialist (NCS) and a certified exercise expert for aging adults (CEEAA). She served as the senior physical therapist on the neurologic team at Allied Services. She earned a bachelor’s degree in health science and master’s degree in physical therapy at Misericordia University and a doctorate in physical therapy at Temple University, Philadelphia. She also earned an Advanced Vestibular Physical Therapist certificate at the University of Pittsburgh. She has been a panelist, speaker, facilitator and guest author in numerous community forums on topics ranging from Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis to fall prevention and post-stroke recovery.

                                      Krisy Elrod, Ph.D., previously a University of Scranton lecturer, was named an assistant professor in the Counseling and Human Services Department. A licensed marriage and family therapist and registered play therapist-supervisor, Dr. Elrod has been an adjunct professor, a clinician in private practice, a subject matter expert for the California Board of Behavioral Sciences, a clinical supervisor, an advocate, a CACREP site visitor, a Red Cross disaster mental health counselor and a psychiatric social worker. She earned a master’s degree in professional counseling at Texas State University and a Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision at Oregon State University. She has a certificate in medical trauma counseling from Xavier University and a certificate in mindful self-awareness.

            Anna Grippi, previously a University of Scranton lecturer, was named a faculty specialist in the Nursing Department. Prior to joining the University, she worked as health coordinator for the Scranton Lackawanna Human Development Agency. She has been a clinical navigator, nurse reviewer for Federal Hearings and Appeals, a team nurse in mental health for the Scranton Counseling Center and a registered nurse on the neurological/trauma floor for Geisinger Community Medical Center. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing at Marywood University and her Master of Science in nursing at Aspen University with a specialization in nursing education.

                                   Megan Heeder, Ph.D., was named an assistant professor in the Theology/Religious Studies Department. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the Program of Liberal Studies and her master’s degree in theology from the University of Notre Dame, a Master of Theological Studies degree from Boston College, and a Ph.D. in Religious Studies, Ethics/Systematics, from Marquette University. She also earned a certificate in Ignatian pedagogy at Marquette. She has a seven-plus-year publication and presentation history and has taught since 2015. She is fluent in Spanish and can read French, German and Latin.

           Anna Jaskiewicz, Ph.D., was named an assistant professor in the Economics, Finance and International Business Department. She most recently served as a teaching assistant and teaching associate at the University of California, Santa Barbara. She earned her bachelor’s degree in economics at New York University in Shanghai and her master’s and Ph.D. in economics at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Her fields of interest are applied microeconomics, demography and health and crime economics. Her research projects include work on anti-Black hate crimes and health outcomes, gunshot noise and birth outcomes and the effect of leaderboards on student study plans.

             Julieann Kane, DNP, was named an instructor in the Nursing Department. She was most recently a certified registered nurse practitioner in gastroenterology at Commonwealth Health Physician Network in Plains Township and had been a CRNP in endocrinology at Intermountain Medical Group, Kingston, a registered nurse in the Infectious Disease Clinic at the Wright Center for Primary Care in Scranton, and a cardiac intensive care nurse for the Lehigh Valley Health Network in Allentown. She also has worked in home health and hospice. She previously taught at Wilkes University. She earned both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in nursing at The University of Scranton and her Doctor of Nursing Practice at Wilkes University. She is pursuing a Ph.D. in nursing at Barry University. 

              Elyse Kay, OTD, was named a faculty specialist in the Occupational Therapy Department. She most recently taught at Binghamton University, prior to which she completed clinical details at Residential Home Health and Fox Rehabilitation. She earned her bachelor’s degree in sport and exercise science at DeSales University, her master’s degree in occupational therapy at Philadelphia University, and her doctorate in occupational therapy at Gannon University, where she was named Outstanding Post-Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate Student. She has made numerous academic presentations and served as a reviewer for several conference proposals.

               Margaret Lakomy, Ph.D., was named a visiting assistant professor in the Chemistry Department. She most recently taught chemistry at Pennsylvania State University, where she earned the Harold F. Martin Graduate Assistant Outstanding Teaching Award, and where she conducted research in the Giri Group on novel functionalization methods of organic compounds. Her notable community service record includes STEM programs for young women as well as raising and training future guide dogs for the blind. She earned her bachelor’s degree in chemistry at Ohio State University and her doctoral degree in chemistry at Pennsylvania State University.

                                         Courtney Lancia, OTD, was named a faculty specialist in the Occupational Therapy Department, for which she had been an academic fieldwork coordinator since 2014 and an adjunct faculty member since 2012. She was employed for 10 years as a staff occupational therapist at Clarks Summit State Hospital. She also served as Capstone advisor in occupational therapy at Gannon University and as an adjunct faculty member in the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program at Lackawanna College. She earned her bachelor’s degree in health sciences and master’s degree in occupational therapy at The University of Scranton and her post-professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate at Gannon University.

                Chi Hou Lei, Ph.D., was named an assistant professor in the Physics and Engineering Department. He joined the faculty in January 2024, prior to which he had been an assistant professor of aerospace and mechanical engineering at St. Louis University. He also had been a post-doctoral research associate and instructor at the University of Washington in Seattle. He earned Excellence in Teaching Awards at both institutions. He earned bachelor’s degrees in mechanical engineering and mathematics at National Taiwan University, Taipei City, Taiwan, a master’s degree in mathematics at Michigan State University, and a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering at the University of Washington.

                  Jinqing Liu, Ph.D., was named an assistant professor in the Education Department. She was most recently a postdoctoral scholar in the School of Education for the University of California, Irvine, and a postdoctoral fellow for the University of New Hampshire. She previously was an instructor of record for The University of New Hampshire and The University of Indiana and had been a K-12 math teacher in China and Indiana. She earned her bachelor’s degree in mathematics and statistics at Zhanjiang Normal University in China, her master’s degree in higher education at the Tsinghua University in China, and her Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction at the University of Indiana, Bloomington.

             David Mahalak, D.Eng., a faculty specialist for three years, was named an assistant professor in the Operations and Analytics Department. He previously had been a visiting assistant and adjunct professor at Wilkes University and an adjunct professor at Penn State University, Hazleton. He worked as a strategic business management consultant at Applied Logistics Integration Consulting LLC in Dallas and as a logistics analyst at Alion Science and Technology in Fort Lee, Virginia. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics at Wilkes University, a master’s in operations research at Northeastern University in Boston, and a Doctor of Engineering in engineering management at The George Washington University. He has a master’s certificate in supply chain management from Michigan State University and a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt Certificate from Villanova University.

                 Ehsan Mahyari, Ph.D., was named an assistant professor in the Operations & Analytics Department. He earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering at Sharif University of Technology, Golpayegan, Isfahan, a master’s degree in industrial engineering in logistics and supply chain at Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran, and a doctorate in operations management at the University of Alabama, where he was honored as Outstanding Operations Management Ph.D. student and defended his dissertation on electric vehicle fleet charging management. As an intern at bp pulse, formerly AMPLY Power, his key project was Electric Vehicle Fleet Charge Scheduling Optimization. He is certified in International Hospital Management by the SDA Bocconi School of Management, Tehran, Iran.

                 William Miller, Ph.D., previously a graduate and undergraduate faculty specialist for nine years, was named an assistant professor in the Health Administration and Human Resources Department. He earned a bachelor’s degree in health science at Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania, a master’s in health administration at The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, and a doctorate in human development-health promotion at Marywood University. He had previously been employed as a clinical assistant professor of family medicine at the Commonwealth Medical College, Scranton, a distance education compliance officer and graduate program coordinator in the School of Nursing at Wilkes University, and a graduate assistant in the School of Social Work and Administrative Studies at Marywood University.

                 Hiva Samadian, Ph.D., was named an assistant professor in the Computing Sciences Department. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Amir Kabir University, Tehran, Iran, an MSc in information technology from Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, and a Ph.D. in computer science from the University of Puerto Rico. He was previously an assistant professor at King’s College, a visiting assistant professor at Colgate University, a lecturer, lab instructor and research assistant at the University of Puerto Rico and a teaching assistant at Ohio State University, Columbus, and the University of Puerto Rico. He also had been a teacher and mentor at Amir Kabir University and a research assistant at Tarbiat Modares University.

                 Mary Tabit, Psy.D., was named assistant professor in the Psychology Department at The University of Scranton. Prior to this appointment, Dr. Tabit served as the director of clinical training and assistant professor in the Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program at Immaculata University. Dr. Tabit has also taught at The Pennsylvania State University in Abington and James Madison University. Throughout her career, Dr. Tabit has worked to improve public health outcomes through diverse research and evaluation projects as a senior project director at Public Health Management Corporation in Philadelphia, and appointments at the Treatment Research Institute and Aaron T. Beck Psychopathology Research Center at the University of Pennsylvania. She earned a Bachelor of Science in psychology at Saint Joseph’s University, a Master of Science in Clinical Health and Counseling Psychology at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, a post-baccalaureate certificate in marketing from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, and a Doctor of Psychology in Clinical and School Psychology at James Madison University.

                  Paul Tierney, Ph.D., was named an assistant professor in the Counseling and Human Services Department. He earned a Master of Education in school counseling at the University of Montevallo and a Ph.D. in counselor education at Auburn University, both in Alabama. He was previously an adjunct instructor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a graduate teaching assistant at Auburn University. He worked in children’s health in Birmingham and for the University of Alabama Health Services Foundation as a counselor and clinical director for the substance abuse program. He is a licensed professional counselor and licensed professional counselor-supervisor.

                   Jennifer Whittaker, Ph.D., was named an assistant professor in the Occupational Therapy Department. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in occupational therapy at The University of Scranton and her master’s degree in health studies and her Ph.D. in occupational therapy at Texas Woman’s University. She previously was an adjunct faculty member at The University of Scranton and a teaching fellow at Texas Woman’s University. She serves as an occupational therapist at Allied Services Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Scranton and as a school-based occupational therapist for the Luzerne Intermediate Educational Unit.

                    Mehmet Ali Yetim, Ph.D., was named an assistant professor in the Management, Marketing and Entrepreneurship Department. He earned a bachelor’s degree in public administration at Celal Bayar University, Manisa, Turkey, where he was valedictorian; a master’s degree in management and systems at New York University and a doctorate in management at Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, where he was awarded the Bedeian Award for Excellence in Research. At Louisiana State University, Dr. Yetim was an instructor of record in the E.J. Ourso College of Business and there he was awarded the James Reddoch Graduate Student Award for Excellence in Teaching.

                  Xinyu Zhou, Ph.D., was named an assistant professor in the Management, Marketing and Entrepreneurship Department. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing at China University of Geosciences in Wuhan, China, a master’s in marketing at Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, China, and a doctorate in marketing at New Mexico State University. She has been an adjunct professor at Wuhan Vocational College of Software and Engineering and a graduate assistant and course instructor at New Mexico State University.

                  Aaron Ziegler, Ph.D., was named an assistant professor in the Health and Human Performance Department. He holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech Language Pathology (CCC-SLP). He has taught part time at The University of Scranton since August 2023 and is an academic support volunteer at the University of Ghana. Previously, he was an adjunct assistant professor at Pacific University and a clinical assistant professor at Portland State University. Dr. Ziegler also had been a postdoctoral fellow and speech-language pathologist at Oregon Health and Science University, a tenure-track acting assistant professor at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and an adjunct faculty member at Columbia College in Chicago. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish (Latin American Studies) and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Performance with an acting emphasis at the University of Michigan, a master’s degree in speech-language pathology at Northwestern University, and a doctorate in communication science and disorders at the University of Pittsburgh. He has professional voice and speech training and is the founder and president of Bjorn This Way, a Portland, Oregon, nonprofit; and the co-founder and co-owner of PhoRTE® Voice Therapy. He has been an assistant professor and speech-language pathologist at Oregon Health and Science University, an expert consultant in speech-language pathology at Tripler Army Medical Center, a speech-language pathologist at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, a clinical fellow in speech-language pathology at Emory University and a performing arts, singing and creative movement teacher in Hong Kong.

Yamile Silva, Ph.D., professor of world languages and cultures at The University of Scranton, was appointed general editor of the academic Journal of Gender and Sexuality Studies/ Revista de Estudio de Género y Sexualidades, which is published by Michigan State University Press. She will serve as general editor for five years, beginning in 2025.

In addition, a dossier she co-edited was selected as the best scholarly collaborative project by the international professional organization GEMELA (Grupo de Estudios de la Mujer en España y las Américas pre-1800). The dossier, “‘Yo llana estoy’: Jerarquías, transgresiones y despliegues de género en América hispana colonial (1492-1898),” was co-edited with Ana María Díaz Burgos, Ph.D., the Eric and Jane Nord Associate Professor of Hispanic Studies and chair of Hispanic Studies at Oberlin College. It included an introduction, five essays, and two academic interviews for a total of 50,000 words.

Dr. Silva’s research and publications focus in the areas of 17^th and 20^th century Spanish women writers, Spanish American literature (colonial and contemporary), women's studies, historical textualities and transatlantic studies. Her recent books include Agencia, Historia y Empoderamiento Femenino (2018) coedited with Diane Martin, Ph.D., and Eva Paris, Ph.D.; La sonrisa del paisaje. Diarios de Abigail Mejía (2020); the anthology Palabras: Dispatches from the Festival de la Palabra (2014), coedited with Hank Willenbrink, Ph.D., associate professor of English and theatre at The University of Scranton; the monograph issues Raza, género y diáspora en el Caribe (2017) and Las utopias en la literatura (2018), both co-edited with Daniel Torres, Ph.D. In addition to articles published in academic journals, she has published book chapters in Women's Negotiations and Textual Agency (2017), Gendering Citizenship and Globalization (2011) and La constitución de identidades subalternas en el discurso jurídico (2008).

Dr. Silva joined the faculty at Scranton in 2009. She serves as director of Latin American and Latinx studies at Scranton. She has been an associated faculty member of the Women Studies Program since 2010. She served as director of the University’s Intersession Study Abroad Program in Puebla, México (Universidad Iberoamericana) and the Summer Spain Program (Universidad de Navarra). Dr. Silva received the University’s Excellence in Advancing Global Learning Award in 2014.

Dr. Silva is a member of the Executive Council of the Colonial Section, Latin American Studies Association, the largest professional association in the world for individuals and institutions engaged in the study of Latin America.

Dr. Silva received a bachelor’s degree from Los Andes University, and a master’s degree and Ph.D. from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

Gretchen J. Van Dyke, Ph.D., associate professor in the Political Science Department at The University of Scranton, received the John L. Earl III Award for service to the University, the faculty and the wider community. The 2024 John L. Earl III Award was presented at the University’s annual Fall Convocation, which took place on campus on Sept. 6.

The award is given annually to a member of the University community who demonstrates the spirit of generosity and dedication that the late Dr. John Earl, a distinguished professor of history, exemplified during his years at Scranton from 1964 to 1996.

Stephen E. Whittaker, Ph.D., professor of English and theatre and the 2023 John L. Earl III Award recipient, read the citation for Dr. Van Dyke, which described her as “a person with and for others” who has “generously embraced her duties as a department member, faculty colleague and advisor to administrators and students.” In presenting the award to Dr. Van Dyke, he said that she “has fully engaged in the academic and social fabric of the greater University community since her first arrival on campus.”

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At Scranton, Dr. Van Dyke has served as the Truman Scholarship advisor, a faculty mentor in the University Honors Program and member of the Honors Council, and as a member of the University’s Fulbright committee and the First-Year Seminar program. She created the popular political science European Union simulation preparatory course, the students of which have participated since 1996 in the annual intercollegiate Mid-Atlantic European Simulation in Washington, DC. She has also developed and taught courses that address contemporary questions of war and peace, global justice and humanitarianism. Dr. Van Dyke received the University’s 2020 “Excellence in Advancing Global Learning Award,” which recognizes faculty members who have demonstrated remarkable academic leadership in integrating international issues and perspectives into the curriculum. In 2013, she was recognized with a University’s Provost Award for “Excellence in Integrating Mission and Justice into the Curriculum.”

Dr. Van Dyke has served as a vice-chair and grievance officer on the Faculty Affairs Council, a 15-year member of faculty handbook committee and a faculty marshal and member of the University’s Commencement Committee since 2004. In 2012, she became the first University faculty member to complete the 18-month Ignatian Colleagues Program of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. Since 2000, she has served as the University’s faculty representative to the Lilly Network of Church-Related Colleges and Universities. She currently is a member of both the Lilly Network National Board and the Friendship House Board of Directors here in Scranton.

Dr. Van Dyke joined the faculty at Scranton in 1994. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Trinity College in Washington, D.C., and her master’s degree and Ph.D. in foreign affairs at the University of Virginia.

At the Convocation, University President Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., congratulated Dr. Van Dyke on her “well-deserved” award.

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In his State of the University address, Father Marina took inspiration from words engraved on a plaque he received from Providence University, a Catholic university in Taiwan that he visited last year. “‘Love your students, then teach them;’ six words so simple, yet so powerful and which help us to stay focused on why we came here and why we remain,” said Father Marina. He recalled multiple instances throughout the 2023-2024 academic year when he saw that simple mantra expressed at Scranton, including the commencement address of Shabana Basij-Rasikh, the co-founder and president of the School of Leadership Afghanistan, whom the University recognized with an honorary degree.

In the commencement address, which roused a standing ovation, Basij-Rasikh called Scranton’s class of 2024 graduates to “seek knowledge even to the ends of the earth.” Father Marina said, quoting from Basij-Rasikh remarks, that this call is to all of us “‘to be curious, to be fearless, to ask hard questions of others and yourselves, and with your knowledge, with compassion and with confidence be the actors who can finally create a better world.’ All of that, and so much more, should easily propel us forward with strength and community to ‘love our students and then teach them.’ This is who we are,” said Father Marina of The University of Scranton community.

Also speaking at the convocation were: David Marx, Ph.D., acting provost and senior vice president of academic affairs; Mary Elizabeth Moylan, faculty emeritus; Carolyn Barry, Ph.D., dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; Victoria Castellanos, Ph.D., dean of the Leahy College of Health Sciences; Murli Rajan, Ph.D., associate dean of the Kania School of Management; and George Aulisio, Ph.D., dean of the Weinberg Memorial Library.

Faculty who joined the University this academic year were also recognized at the event.

The Office of Community-Based Learning (CBL) announces the third cohort of its CBL Faculty Fellows Program. The purpose of the program is to recognize, reward and support exemplary faculty who are eager to fully integrate CBL as an intentional pedagogical strategy into their courses and/or curricular-based projects. CBL is an academic experience which involves students working with individuals, groups, or organizations in ways structured to meet community-defined needs. The Faculty Fellows program seeks to expand, strengthen and institutionalize CBL at the University as a demonstration of its commitment to Jesuit values and the common good.

The CBL Faculty Fellows Program began in the academic year of 2022-2023.

"This faculty cohort represents the potential for community partnerships which will engage a variety of students and faculty throughout the university in new and different ways. These faculty bring to life the University's vision to provide a superior, transformational learning experience, preparing students who, in the words of Jesuit founder St. Ignatius Loyola, will ‘set the world on fire’. Each year increasing the depth and breadth of CBL partnerships strengthens our commitment to the Scranton community and those it serves,” said Debra Fetherman, PhD, CBL Faculty Coordinator, Professor and Department Chair of the Health and Human Performance Department.

The 2024-2025 academic year CBL faculty fellows are listed below, including their department and what course or project they will focus on.

Dr. Laura R. Chapman, Communication Sciences & Disorders and Speech-Language Pathology

Laura R. Chapman, Ph.D. CCC-SLP, Assistant Professor of Communication Sciences & Disorders and Speech-Language Pathology, in the Department of Health and Human Performance, will focus on integrating CBL into the course CSD 403: Introduction to Speech and Language Disorders in Healthcare. She will work with a community partner to aid in the development and implementation of programming related to optimizing cognitive wellness for older adults in the community. She plans to engage her students in collaboration with the community partner to develop education, resources, and practices related to improving and maintaining cognitive wellness, with the hopes that it will foster a several-week workshop led by students that community members who are concerned about their cognitive wellness can participate in for free.

Dr. Rita A. DiLeo, Health Administration

Rita A. DiLeo, DSc, MPA, RT(R)(ARRT), BSP, Assistant Professor of Health Administration, will lead a CBL project as part of the graduate course HAD 509: Administrative Issues. This course challenges graduate students to integrate business methodologies, apply core competencies, and exercise critical thinking to solve a complex problem faced by a healthcare organization. As part of this project, students will conduct a comprehensive needs assessment for a not-for-profit entity to thoroughly understand the issues at hand. Based on their findings and leveraging knowledge acquired throughout their graduate studies, students will cultivate a practical solution that equips the healthcare organization with a well-structured and actionable plan. Furthermore, tools produced by the students such as the educational and marketing materials can be used by the organization on an ongoing basis.

Dr. Nathaniel A. Frissell, Physics and Engineering

Nathaniel A. Frissell, Ph.D, Associate Professor of Physics and Engineering, will focus on a project entitled “Bringing the Amateur Radio Hobby to the Blind and Visually Impaired of Lackawanna County.” His inspiration for this project comes from how amateur (ham) radio is an accessible, well-suited hobby for blind and visually impaired people. He will collaborate with University of Scranton Electrical Engineering and Physics students, members of the University’s W3USR Amateur Radio Club, members of the Murgas Amateur Radio Club based in Wilkes-Barre, volunteer radio amateurs who are blind/visually impaired, and University of Scranton Occupational Therapy faculty and students, all to teach interested clients of the Lackawanna Blind Association the necessary skills to engage in the amateur radio community. This will include the knowledge required to pass the Technician Amateur Radio License exam and the skills needed to communicate with other amateurs from a home radio device.

Professor Christiane McDonald, Communication Sciences & Disorders and Speech-Language Pathology

Christiane McDonald, M.S., CCC-SLP, Faculty Specialist of Communication Sciences & Disorders and Speech-Language Pathology, in the Department of Health and Human Performance, will focus on the project “Speech & Language Milestones, Development, and Differences” as a part of two of her courses, CSD 200: Foundations of Speech & Language Development, and CSD 203: Developmental Speech & Language Disorders. The two foundational CSD courses focus on understanding typical speech and language development, and the various developmental disorders which may affect an individual’s speech. The classes also include the study of language differences, and how they relate to culture, dialect, and bilingualism. Thus, the intended CBL project will focus on identifying local minority families and engaging CSD students in offering them support, which will include information about developmental speech and language milestones, recognizing signs and symptoms of delays, and recognizing language differences. She and her students will also provide information about how to enhance a child’s skills, guide parents if they need a referral, and promote and celebrate the benefits of bilingualism for children.

Dr. Stacy M. Smulowitz, Communication and Media

Stacy M. Smulowitz, Ph.D., ABC, Associate Professor and Chairperson of the Communication and Media Department, will focus on integrating a CBL component into the course COMM 330: Advertising Decision Making, as well as the University’s student-run Advertising Club. She will engage her students in a semester-long group project that is aimed at creating advertisement and marketing content for a local non-profit or small business. Each student group will operate as an ad agency competing for the business of

the client. The client will visit frequently throughout the semester with the students to enable progress on their campaigns, and at the end of the semester, the students will pitch their materials to win their business. Each student team will provide the clients with a marketing communications-based advertising campaign that includes multimedia digital files that the client can use.

“Now in its third year, the CBL Faculty Fellow program is fostering a cohort of scholars who are engaged with community projects and issues. Each year it’s exciting to engage with the faculty group and help support their work with their students and community partners. We look forward to all that will be learned by our students through the faculty engagement and the positive impact CBL makes in the community,” said Julie Schumacher Cohen, Assistant Vice President for Community Engagement and Government Affairs and Chair of the CBL Board. For more information on CBL at the University visit www.scranton.edu/cbl

The University of Scranton granted promotions and/or tenure to 17 faculty members effective at the start of the 2024-25 academic year.

Six faculty members have been promoted to professor: Michael Azar, Ph.D., theology and religious studies; Michael Fennie, Ph.D., chemistry; Debra Fetherman, Ph.D., health and human performance; Jason Graham, Ph.D., mathematics; David Salerno, Ph.D., accounting; and Benjamin Willis, Ph.D., counseling and human services.

Five faculty members were named associate professor: Sinchul Back, Ph.D., cybercrime, criminal justice and sociology; Hope Baylow, D.A., health and human performance; Marleen Cloutier, library; Nathaniel Frissell, Ph.D., physics and electrical engineering; and Ian O’Hara, library.

Two faculty members were named associate professor and granted tenure: Colleen Farry, library; and Anne Royer, Ph.D., biology.

Four faculty members were granted tenure: Anthony Carusotto, D.P.T., physical therapy; Chris Haw, Ph.D., theology and religious studies; Jong-Hyun Son, Ph.D., biology; and Billie Tadros, Ph.D., English and theatre.

Dr. Azar received a bachelor’s degree from Colorado Christian University, a master’s degree from St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary. He also received a master’s degree and a doctoral degree from Fordham University. He has worked for the University since 2013.

Dr. Fennie received a bachelor’s degree from the Canisius University and a doctoral degree from the University of Pennsylvania. He has worked for the University since 2012.

Dr. Fetherman received a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University, a master’s degree from the University of Central Arkansas and a doctorate from Marywood University. She has worked for the University since 2005.

Dr. Graham received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston, master’s degrees from Southern Methodist University and the University of Iowa. He also received a doctoral degree from the University of Iowa. He has worked for the University since 2012.

Dr. Salerno received a bachelor’s degree and MBA from The University of Scranton and a doctoral degree from Kent State University. He has worked for the University since 2007.

Dr. Willis received a bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of North Carolina. He has worked at the University since 2013.

Dr. Back received a bachelor’s degree from Northeastern University, a master’s degree from Hankuk University of Foreign Studies in South Korea, a master’s degree from Bridgewater State University, and a doctoral degree from Florida International University. He has worked at the University since 2019.

Dr. Baylow received a bachelor’s degree from Hofstra University, a master’s degree from Long Island University, and a doctoral degree from Adelphi University. She has worked at the University since 2020.

Prof. Cloutier received a bachelor’s degree from the Wentworth Institute of Technology, a master’s degree from Drexel University, and a master’s degree from The University of Scranton. She has worked at the University since 2019.

Dr. Frissell received bachelor’s degree from Montclair State University, and a master’s degree and a doctorate from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. He has worked at the University since 2019.

Prof. O’Hara received a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from The University of Scranton, and a master’s degree from Clarion University of Pennsylvania. He has worked at the University since 2013.

Prof. Farry received a bachelor’s degree from Marywood University; two master’s degrees from Syracuse University; and a master’s degree from the University of Illinois. She has worked at the University since 2015.

Dr. Royer receive a bachelor’s degree from Oberlin College and a doctoral degree from Michigan State University. She has worked the University since 2017.

Dr. Carusotto receive a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree and a doctoral degree from Misericordia University. He has worked at the University since 2018.

Dr. Haw received a bachelor’s degree from Eastern University, a master’s degree from Villanova University and a doctoral degree from the University of Notre Dame. He has worked at Scranton since 2018.

Dr. Son received a bachelor’s degree from Dankook University, a master’s degree from Western Illinois University, and a doctoral degree from Texas A and M University of the Health Sciences. He joined the faculty at Scranton in 2017.

Dr. Tadros received a bachelor’s degree from Susquehanna University, a master’s degree from Sarah Lawrence College, and a doctoral degree from the University of Louisiana. She joined the faculty at Scranton in 2018.

Ten University of Scranton faculty members were honored with Faculty Enhancement awards for excellence in teaching, scholarship or service. The Office of the Provost and the Provost Advisory Group selected the recipients from a pool of candidates nominated by academic deans and department chairs. In addition, five faculty members who are retiring were also recognized at the event held recently on campus.

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Michael Allison, Ph.D., received the Advancing Global Learning Award, which is presented to a faculty member who has demonstrated noteworthy academic leadership in integrating international issues/perspectives into the curriculum and through whose efforts, students have acquired the competencies, attributes and insights required to meaningfully and successfully participate in an increasingly interdependent world. 

Dr. Allison, professor and chair of the Department of Political Science, joined the faculty at Scranton in 2006. He has served as department chair for a decade and served as coordinator of the University’s Ellacuría Initiative from 2011 to 2019. The courses he teaches at Scranton cover American government and international relations and include “Central and South America,” “United States-Latin American Relations,” “Human Rights,” “Comparative Civil Wars,” and “September 11th and Beyond.” His areas of research interests include the comparative study of civil war and civil war resolution, particularly as it relates to the transition of rebel groups to political parties in Central and South America.

Dr. Allison is a two-time recipient of Fulbright awards. In 1997 he received a Fulbright Student Scholarship to El Salvador and in 2013 he received a Fulbright Faculty Scholarship to Guatemala, where he researched the Guatemalan National Revolutionary Unit and its transition to political party as well as United States-Central American relations in the post-Cold War period. Dr. Allison has also been an active member of the University’s Fulbright Committee, assisting students with the competitive application process.

Dr. Allison is a member of the Jesuit Universities Humanitarian Action Network (JUHAN) and co-organized the JUHAN Student Leadership Conference held at Scranton to help provide our students with opportunities to develop global competencies. He has also led student groups to the Ignatian Family Teach-In for Justice which has a history of honoring the Salvadorian Martyrs from 1989.

Dr. Allison earned a bachelor’s degree from Fairfield University and a master’s degree and doctorate from Florida State University.

Mehmet F. Bastug, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Sociology, Criminal Justice and Criminology Department, received the Faculty Senate Excellence in Graduate Teaching Award, which recognizes a faculty member who demonstrates dedication to teaching graduate students in a manner that creates an encouraging and intellectually stimulating environment that promotes critical thinking and learning.

Dr. Bastug, who joined the faculty at Scranton in 2020, serves as director of the Cybercrime Investigation and Cybersecurity Master of Science Program. He teaches courses in cybersecurity and homeland security at the undergraduate and graduate levels. His research focuses on cybersecurity, cyberterrorism, online radicalization, and violent extremism. He has presented at conferences and has co-authored several peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters.

In 2021, Dr. Bastug was named to the 100-member Certified Ethical Hacker Hall of Fame by the EC-Council, the International Council of E-Commerce Consultants. The Hall of Fame celebrates some of the most accomplished Certified Ethical Hackers (CEHs) around the world.

Dr. Bastug earned a bachelor’s degree from the Turkish National Police University in Ankara. He earned a master’s degree from Akdeniz University in Antalya, Turkey, and a master’s degree and doctorate from Rutgers University. He completed postdoctoral research at the University of Cincinnati and the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT).

Lori Bruch, Ed.D., associate professor and chair of the Counseling and Human Services Department and Satyajit Ghosh, Ph.D., professor in the Economics, Finance and International Business Department, received the Excellence for University Service and Leadership Award, which recognizes faculty who have contributed service to the University community, particularly those who demonstrate academic leadership by effectively mentoring their junior colleagues.

Dr. Bruch joined the University faculty full-time in 1995, having previously served as an adjunct professor at Scranton since 1989. She has served as chair of the Counseling and Human Services Department since 2015. She also served as co-chair of the University’s annual Conference on Disability for more than a decade.

Dr. Bruch’s research interests include the Americans with Disabilities Act, employment of individuals with disabilities, attitudes towards persons with disabilities, professional identity for rehabilitation counselors, rehabilitation counseling curriculum, supervision and accreditation, and lifespan development. She has published nearly 20 articles in academic journals and had presented at more than 40 conferences and meetings.

Dr. Bruch is a member of many national and regional organizations, having served as a board member and chair of the Council on Rehabilitation Education, president of the National Association of Rehabilitation Leadership and president of the Pennsylvania Rehabilitation Association, to name just a few.

Dr. Bruch earned a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from the Pennsylvania State University, a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin, Stout, and a doctorate from George Washington University.

Dr. Ghosh joined the faculty at the University in 1986. During his tenure at Scranton, he has served on numerous committees, including AACSB accreditation steering committees, Presidential search committees, several terms on the Board of Rank and Tenure, the Faculty Senate and the Curriculum Committee of the Senate, the KSOM Assessment Committee, the Henry George Lecture Committee and many more. Since 2020, Dr. Ghosh has been an active member of the General Education Review Committee. He is currently serving as the General Education Assessment Coordinator. Dr. Ghosh was instrumental in setting up the Office of Educational Assessment and currently serves as its co-director and as a faculty fellow. He also served as chair of the Economics and Finance Department for 15 years.

Dr. Ghosh and Aram Balagyozyan, Ph.D, associate professor of economics, finance and international business, have researched and published multiple issues of the Brennan Barometer, which looks specifically at the economy of NEPA’s Wyoming Valley. The publication analyzes the Wyoming Valley’s job and housing market, as well as the cost-of-living impact inflation has had on household purchasing power in the region, among other factors. Dr. Ghosh is frequently quoted in local, regional and even national media outlets discussing the NEPA economy.

Dr. Ghosh earned a bachelor’s degree from Presidency College in India, a master’s degree from the University of Calcutta and a master’s and doctorate from State University of New York, Buffalo.

Gerard Dumancas, Ph.D., received the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning Award, which is presented to a faculty member who makes extraordinary efforts to enhance student learning and who practices teaching as a form of scholarship.

In 2023, Dr. Dumancas received the University’s Excellence in Integrating Diversity in Learning Award, which recognizes a faculty member whose efforts to integrate diversity in the curriculum have enriched the students’ learning experiences. Also in 2023, he was selected as a Visiting Faculty Fellow by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

Dr. Dumancas, associate professor of chemistry, joined the faculty at Scranton in the spring of 2022. Over the course of his academic career, he has generated more than $2 million in external research funding from the NSF, Louisiana State University and the Louisiana Board of Regents. He has published nearly 100 research products in the form of journal articles, book chapters, books and intellectual property disclosures related to his research in the development and applications of chemometrics and spectroscopic techniques in food and biological applications. He is the recipient of a five-year, $1.158 million National Science Foundation funded Noyce Scholars grant to support future STEM high school teachers in high-need school districts.

At Scranton, Dr. Dumancas serves as a faculty fellow in the Office of Education Assessment and as a community-based learning faculty fellow, where he is collaborating with the Lackawanna River Conservation Association and is combining research and teaching by implementing novel analytical chemistry experiments for use in his lab classes.

In addition, Dr. Dumancas is serving as the faculty lead for a Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation grant, which is a program that takes a comprehensive approach to student development and retention. Particular emphasis is placed on transforming undergraduate STEM education through innovative, evidence-based recruitment and retention strategies, and relevant educational experiences in support of racial and ethnic groups historically underrepresented in STEM disciplines.

Dr. Dumancas earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of the Philippines and a doctorate from Oklahoma State University.

Madeline Gangnes, Ph.D., received the Sustainability Award, which recognizes the efforts of a faculty member who strives for excellence in teaching about sustainability and who makes extraordinary efforts to introduce that essential concept into the curriculum.

Dr. Gangnes joined the University faculty in 2020 as an assistant professor in the Department of English and Theatre. She serves as co-moderator of the University’s Mu Omicron Chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, the national English honor society. She is also a member of the University’s Ecological Education working group and the Cry for the Poor working group, both of which support the University’s Laudato Si’ initiative. At Scranton, she has developed two courses that support the newly revised environmental science major and the environmental and sustainability studies concentration: “Literature and the Environment” and “Climate Fiction.”

Her research interests include the intersections of 19th-century British literature and culture, visual studies, digital humanities and book history. She is particularly interested in the image textuality of Victorian periodicals, especially illustrated serialized fiction. Her scholarly work has been published in journals and collected volumes, including the Victorian Periodicals Review, the Journal of Graphic Novels and Comic, INKS: The Journal of the Comics Studies Society, Studies in Comics and Art and Science in Word and Image: Exploration and Discovery. She has served as the assistant editor of Studies in Comics and as the editor of Sequentials.

Dr. Gangnes earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Puget Sound, a master’s degree from the University of Dundee in Scotland and a doctorate from the University of Florida.

Michael Landram., Ph.D., received the Community-Based Learning Award, which is presented to a faculty member who has demonstrated excellence in community-based learning (CBL) pedagogy as demonstrated by meaningful integration with course or program content that incorporates integration of theory with practice, direct engagement with community members, and personal and critical academic reflection.

Dr. Landram, associate professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance, joined the faculty at Scranton in 2015. His research interests include the measurement of the neurological and cardiovascular stresses associated with various training loads, competitive endeavors, and recovery in athletic and clinical populations.

At Scranton. Dr. Landram has developed an ongoing community partnership with the Jewish Community Center (JCC) in Scranton, through which, for nearly a decade, senior students in the kinesiology program engage in meaningful learning experiences while helping older adults meet their physical activity needs. During this Community-Based-Learning (CBL) experience, students are matched with a JCC participant to design an individualized physical activity program based on their fitness assessment, a needs-based analysis and their physical activity goals. Over the course of 12 weeks each semester, students, along with their faculty mentor, evaluate and monitor individual physical activity sessions and review and modify goals as appropriate. Dr. Landram also incorporated into the course meaningful opportunities for student and participant reflection.

Each year, this CBL project serves 50-60 of our students and 35-40 adult participants from the JCC, providing at least 1,000 contact hours per year.

Dr. Landram is a member of the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Physiological Society, and is a certified USA Olympic weightlifting coach.

Dr. Landram earned a bachelor’s degree from Truman State University, a master’s degree from Appalachian State University and a doctorate from University of Rome “Foro Italico” in Italy.

Prof. Ian O’Hara received the Excellence in Advancing Interdisciplinary Study Award, which recognizes a faculty member who demonstrates noteworthy academic leadership in promoting and strengthening cross-disciplinary or interdepartmental teaching and learning endeavors.

Prof. O’Hara, assistant professor and research and instruction librarian in the Weinberg Memorial Library, has created several research guides for the University, including the Ability, Disability, and Accessibility Resources Guide and the Race, Racism and Anti-Racism Resources Guide.

Prof. O’Hara serves on the Library’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Committee, and has been influential in the establishment of several innovations in the library that make it a more equitable and welcoming environment. His research interests include critical information literacy, new and emerging technologies, principles and applications of software design and web application development, among other areas.

Prof. O’Hara joined the staff at Scranton as a serials/electronic resources clerk in 2013. He earned a bachelor’s degree from The University of Scranton and a master’s degree in software engineering from Scranton. He also earned a master’s degree in library science from Clarion University of Pennsylvania.

Kimberly Pavlick, Ph.D., received the Integrating Mission and Justice into the Curriculum Award, which recognizes a faculty member whose special efforts ensure that students have a keen understanding and appreciation of the realities of the world, including pressing justice issues in a local, national and global context.

Dr. Pavlick, assistant professor in the Department of Communication and Media, joined the faculty at Scranton in 2005. Her teaching and research focuses on effective writing for various media platforms, journalism and broadcasting. Well known with students for her boundless energy and exacting standards, Dr. Pavlick includes in her courses projects that simulate the realities of professional communication fields and stimulate the interest and motivation of the students. She ensures students have a keen understanding of the realities of the world including pressing justice issues in a local, national and global context. She integrates seminal issues of justice into her teaching as well, so that students possess the awareness, competence, skills and insights to critically reflect on prevailing social, political, economic and cultural issues, and be able and willing to take action on behalf of justice.

Most recently, Dr. Pavlick has established an ongoing relationship with the Gino Merli Center to record the stories of Scranton area veterans. Through the Community-Based-Learning (CBL) project, students meet with veterans and practice the skills that they have learned in her course by documenting and recording their experiences. Feedback on the project indicates that the veterans appreciate the opportunity to speak with young people, while the students learn of real-world events through the eyes of those who have experienced them.

At Scranton, Dr. Pavlick has served as the NCAA faculty athletics representative and as a faculty mentor for the field hockey team.

Dr. Pavlick earned a bachelor’s degree from West Virginia University, a master’s degree from The University of Scranton and a doctorate from Marywood University.

Hank Willenbrink, Ph.D., received the Excellence in Scholarly Publication Award, which is presented to a faculty member who has attained distinction in scholarship or creative activity.

An associate professor in the Department of English and Theatre at Scranton, Dr. Willenbrink’s most recent book, “Performing for the Don: Theatres of Faith on the Trump Era,” was published by Rutledge Press in 2023 and is the culmination of several years of scholarly work. His scholarly research focuses on religious performance and playwriting.

In addition to academic research, Dr. Willenbrink is a creative writer and performer. His play, “The Boat in the Tiger Suit” premiered at The Brick in New York City on 2013 and was published by Original Works Publishing in 2014. His play “18” won the Corwin Award for Best Short Play from the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival. His monologues have been featured in Monologues for Men by Men, More Monologues for Men by Men, and Best Men’s Stage Monologues of 2014.

At Scranton, Dr. Willenbrink has developed and led three interdisciplinary, community-engaged projects featuring students: “Proprioception” in 2015; “The Porches Project” in 2019; and “1902” in 2023. In each project, student writers performed research on their community through historical documentation or via community story gatherings. The research collected was then used to create dramatic works, which were developed and performed.

Dr. Willenbrink joined the faculty at Scranton in 2004. He has served as director of the Theatre Program and director of First Year Seminar Development. He has served on numerous committees including the Slattery Center Faculty Executive Committee and Humanities Initiative, Honors Council: Community-based Learning Advisory Board and Laudato Si' Education for the Environment Working Group.

Dr. Willlenbrink earned a bachelor’s from Colgate University, a master’s degree from the University of Vermont, and a doctorate from Syracuse University.

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Also recognized at the award ceremony were five retiring faculty members, each of whom have served the University for decades: Brigid Curtin Frein, Ph.D., associate professor, in the Theology/Religious Studies Department, who joined the faculty at Scranton in 1988; Irene Goll, Ph.D., associate professor in the Management, Marketing and Entrepreneurship Department, who joined the faculty at Scranton in 1988; Edward M. Scahill, Ph.D., associate professor in the Economics, Finance and International Business Department, who joined the faculty at Scranton in 1989; Daniel J. West, Ph.D., professor in the Health Administration and Human Resources Department, who joined the faculty at Scranton in 1990; and Michael M. Costello, J.D., faculty specialist in the Health Administration and Human Resources Department, who joined the faculty at Scranton full-time in 2014, having previously served as an adjunct professor.

During her tenure at Scranton, Dr. Frein served as departmental chair; interim associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences; and coordinator for freshman seminar for the College of Arts and Sciences, among other committees and positions. Her research interests specialize in the New Testament and she has published numerous articles on the Gospels. She is an active member of the Catholic Biblical Association. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Gonzaga University and a doctorate from Saint Louis University.

Dr. Goll was named as a Alperin Teaching Fellow and a Burkavage Fellow at Scranton. She has published numerous articles that examine corporate social responsibility as an important component of a firm’s culture, philosophy or ideology in prestigious management journals such as Organization Studies and Industrial Relations. Dr. Goll earned a bachelor’s degree from The Pennsylvania State University, a master’s degree from the University of Illinois and a doctorate from Temple University.

Dr. Scahill served as the director of the University’s Center for Economic Education for decades. He has published articles in numerous journals, including the Journal of Economics Teaching, Journal of Economics and Economic Education, Journal of Finance and Economics and the International Review of Economics Education. He has made contributions to “Principles of Microeconomics and Macroeconomics” (all eight editions), “Intermediate Macroeconomics” and “Money and Banking,” co-authored by R. Glenn Hubbard and Anthony Patrick O’Brien. He was also named as a regular contributor on microeconomics to The Wall Street Journal’s Weekly Review. Dr. Scahill received the University’s Alperin Teaching Fellowship and the Leavey Award for Excellence in Private Enterprise Education from the Freedoms Foundation for his program, “Teaching Economics by Teaching Baseball.” He earned a bachelor’s degree from St. Bonaventure University and a master’s degree and a doctorate from The State University of New York at Binghamton.

Dr. West served as the chair the Health Administration and Human Resources Department for two decades, in addition to serving a several University committees. During his tenure at Scranton, he planned and conducted dozens of study abroad tours for graduate students and faculty to countries as diverse as Bolivia, Slovakia, Haiti and China. A well-respected teacher and scholar with specialization in international health care, globalization, multiculturalism and diversity management, Dr. West holds a professor in public health appointment at Trnava University, as well as a visiting professor appointment at the University of Matej Bel, Slovakia and affiliated faculty at Tbilisi State Medical University, Georgia. In 2019, he was awarded an honorary doctorate degree from Trnava University, Slovakia. He was recognized as an International Fellow at Scranton and received the John L. Earl III Award for service to the University, the faculty and the wider community in 2021. Dr. West earned a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree and a doctoral degree from the Pennsylvania State University.

Prof. Costello served as program director of the University’s Graduate MHA Online program. During his tenure at Scranton, he received the Faculty Service Award from Hanley College and the Provost’s part-time Faculty Award for Teaching Excellence, as well as the University’s Frank O’Hara Award for University service. He also served as president of the University of Scranton Alumni Society. His teaching and publishing interests are in the areas of health law and policy, health economics, international health care, long-term care administration, and clinical and administrative ethics. He holds an adjunct faculty appointment at The Commonwealth Medical College and the University of Central Florida. He also holds visiting professorships at Trnava and St. Elizabeth Universities in Slovakia and the University of Georgia in Tbilisi, Republic of Georgia. He is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives. He earned a bachelor’s degree from The University of Scranton, a master’s degree from Ohio University, an MBA from The University of Scranton, and a juris doctorate from Southland University.

The Management and Marketing Department at The University of Scranton Kania School of Management officially recognized Robert McKeage, Ph.D, '71 for 50 years of excellent teaching and services.

Dr. McKeage joined the University's management faculty in 1974. At KSOM he is the director of the Business Leadership Program, a prestigious two-year program with more than 200 elite graduates. Dr. McKeage has prepared a considerable group of graduates to obtain key positions in business organizations. Currently, he teaches principles of management, seminars in business leadership, group dynamics and organizational behavior to undergraduate and MBA students.

Previously, Dr. McKeage received an award for University Service. He played a key role in the development of Scranton’s Business Leadership Honors Program. Dr. McKeage has received several teaching accolades, including the Alpha Sigma Nu’s Edward Gannon, S.J., Award for Teaching, the Kania School of Management’s Student’s Choice Award for Teaching, and the Provost’s Enhancement Award for Excellence in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning.

The University of Scranton awarded faculty development summer grants for 2024 to seven faculty members.

Anthony Carusotto, Ed.D., DPT, assistant professor of physical therapy, received a grant to research “Enhancing knowledge and formal training to improve cardiopulmonary curricular mapping within the Doctoral of Physical Therapy program at The University of Scranton.” He joined the faculty at the University in 2018. He earned a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Misericorida University, and a Ed.D. degree from Drexel University.

Michael Crowell, DPT, D.Sc., associate professor of physical therapy, received a grant to research “Exploring relationships between psychological readiness to return to play, neuromuscular asymmetries, graft type, and collegiate athletic skill level after ACL reconstruction.” He joined the faculty in 2023. He earned a bachelor’s degree at the United States Military Academy and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and a Doctor of Science degree from Baylor University.

Ashley Driver, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, received a grant to research “Characterizing the role of Hsd17b7 on cellular survival and autophagy in mammalian cells.” She joined the University in 2020. She received a bachelor’s degree and a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Colleen Farry, assistant professor and digital services librarian, Weinberg Memorial Library, received a grant to research “Integrating Artificial Intelligence in Archival Workflows.” She joined the University in 2015. She received a bachelor’s degree from Marywood University, a master’s degree from Syracuse University and a master’s degree in library science from the University of Illinois.

Bibi Rafeiza Khan, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, received a grant to research “Identification of the Mutated Gene in Latrunculin B Resistant 2 (LBR2) Arabidopsis thaliana Seedlings by Map-based Cloning.” She joined the University in 2021. She received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Guyana, a master’s degree from the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville and a Ph.D. from the University of Missouri-St. Louis.

Riddhiman Medhi, Ph.D., assistant professor of chemistry, received a grant to research “Metal Oxide Nanowire Arrays for Photocatalytic Degradation of Water Pollutants.” He joined the University in 2021. He received a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from Gauhati University in Guwahati, India, and a Ph.D. from the University of Houston

Susan Poulson, Ph.D., professor of history, received a grant to research “Insanity: Murder and Madness in a Troubled America.” She joined the University in 1990. She received a bachelor’s degree from George Washington University and a master’s degree and Ph.D. from Georgetown University.

Associate Professor of Chemistry Dr. Gerard G. Dumancas worked with The University of Scranton graduate students and published two original research articles in American Chemical Society (ACS) journals this year. The overarching goal of Dr. Dumancas’ laboratory is to develop novel, faster and inexpensive analytical methods to detect adulteration of a wide array of food commodities including honey, turmeric powder, coffee and egg whites. In doing so, his research group is utilizing a wide array of machine learning and spectroscopic tools to develop robust multivariate calibration models for predicting adulteration in food products and other types of biological systems.

In the first manuscript, MS in biochemistry graduate student Noemi Carreto worked on research titled “Chemometrics for Quantitative Determination of Terpenes Using Attenuated Total Reflectance–Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy: A Pedagogical Laboratory Exercise for Undergraduate Instrumental Analysis Students” which was published in the Journal of Chemical Education.

The project entailed a computational exercise that exposed undergraduate students in an instrumental analysis laboratory course to the process of data acquisition using advanced equipment—specifically, attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. After data collection, students analyzed these data using the partial least squares (PLS) chemometric technique. The overall goal of this project was to develop a pedagogical laboratory exercise to expose students in the area of chemometrics, a powerful technique that uses statistics and computer applications in analytical chemistry.

The exercise provided a systematic and step-by-step guide for students to follow in the instrumental analysis laboratory. Based on feedback from student surveys, it can be concluded that this cost-effective and convenient activity successfully introduced students to the application of chemometrics for quantitatively analyzing terpene compounds through ATR-FTIR. This easily implementable two-week activity can serve as a standalone module for instrumental analysis laboratory classes and can even be adapted for integration into advanced courses covering applied spectroscopy and chemometrics.

In a second manuscript, MS in biochemistry graduate student Norwell Bautista published a research titled “Quantification of Lactobacillus reuteri ProTectis in MRS Broth Using Attenuated Total Reflectance–Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) Spectroscopy and Chemometrics” in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. The overall goal of this research was to develop a faster and inexpensive analytical method for quantifying a pure culture of Lactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri) ProTectis grown in deMan, Rogosa, and Sharpe (MRS) broth using ATR-FTIR and chemometrics. Findings from this study demonstrate the feasibility of employing a quantification technique utilizing ATR-FTIR, along with a principal component analysis–PLS chemometric model, to reliably predict viable plate count in a culture of L. reuteri ProTectis in MRS broth.

Dumancas came to The University of Scranton in the Spring of 2022 and has since then published nearly 30 manuscripts in high-impact factor journals, primarily with undergraduate and graduate students. In summer 2023, he was awarded a $50,000 research grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) for his research involving the use of chemometrics and spectroscopy to test the purity of honey. His research efforts are presently supported by NSF Award 2327747, 2223970 and 2027402.

 

 

 

 

 

Robert Feenstra, Ph.D., the C. Bryan Cameron Distinguished Chair in International Economics at University of California (UC), Davis, presented The University of Scranton’s 37th Henry George Lecture in November on campus. Dr. Feenstra presented “The ‘China Shock’ After 22 Years,” detailing his assessment of the economic impact trade with China over the past few decades.

Considered the preeminent public lecture series on economics in Northeastern Pennsylvania, the Henry George Lecture Series is presented by the University’s Department of Economics, Finance and International Business and the campus chapter of Omicron Delta Epsilon, an international honor society for economics. Among the distinguished list of speakers who have spoken at previous lectures are eleven winners of the Nobel Prize in Economics: David Card (2021) Paul Romer (2018), Robert Shiller (2013), Tom Sargent (2011), Peter Diamond (2010), Paul Krugman (2008), Joseph Stiglitz (2001), George Akerlof (2001), Amartya Sen (1998), Robert Lucas (1995) and Robert Solow (1987). The lecture series is named in honor of the 19th century American economist and social reformer and is supported financially by a grant from the Robert Schalkenbach Foundation.

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The book, “Nurses making policy from bedside to boardroom (3^rd ed.),” co-edited by Margarete L. Zalon, Ph.D., professor emerita in the Department of Nursing at The University of Scranton, received the Sigma Theta Tau 2023 Capstone International Nursing Book Award for Nursing Excellence.

Sigma Theta Tau (Sigma) is the International Honor Society of Nursing. Their International Awards for Nursing Excellence reflect the organization’s dedication to fostering high professional nursing standards, recognizing superior achievement, developing leadership and encouraging creative work. The awards were announced at Sigma’s 47th Biennial Convention, which was held  November 11-15 in San Antonio, Texas.

In addition, Dr. Zalon received a 2022 American Journal of Nursing (AJN) Book of the Year Award for the book, which placed 2nd in the program’s Nursing Management and Leadership category. Dr. Zalon also received a 2019 AJN Book of the Year Award for the second edition of this book in 2019.

Earlier this year, Dr. Zalon was appointed as a consumer representative to the Pennsylvania e-Health Partnership Advisory Board.

Dr. Zalon, who retired in 2022, has been a member of Scranton’s faculty since 1988. She was inducted as an American Academy of Nursing Fellow in 2010 in part for her positive influence on health care policy and delivery. Her leadership legacy includes grassroots advocacy, progressive program design, execution and outcomes in state and national nursing organizations focused on establishing practice and education policy and building research funding capacity.

During her more than three decades of service at the University, Dr. Zalon has served on numerous committees, including in leadership roles on the Faculty Senate. When she served as director of the University’s online Master of Science in Health Informatics Program, she has played a pivotal role in the program’s success. In 2021, the graduate program received accreditation from the prestigious Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM).

Dr. Zalon is a previous chair of the American Nurses Foundation, a former board member of the American Nurses Association and a past president of the Pennsylvania State Nurses Association. She currently serves as the president of the Nursing Foundation of Pennsylvania, the charitable arm of PSNA which focuses on providing scholarships to students enrolled in nursing programs.

Her research focuses on vulnerable elders. She has authored book chapters, as well as articles published in numerous scholarly journals and other professional publications. She has also made research and health policy presentations at the local, state, national and international levels.

In 2022, Dr. Zalon received the John L. Earl III Award for service to the University, the faculty and the wider community. She was also a recipient of the Duke University School of Nursing Distinguished Alumna Award, the PSNA Distinguished Nurse Award and a Leahy Fellowship at Scranton. She also received the University’s Excellence in Advancing Interdisciplinary Study Award in 2020.

Dr. Zalon earned her bachelor’s degree from Duke University and her master’s and Ph.D. degrees from New York University.

Students learned about how Japanese history and politics are reflected in anime characters and storylines at a September event hosted by Japanese visiting instructor Naoko Omori. This introduction to anime, a popular form of entertainment in Japan and around the world, showed students more about anime and just how much they can learn about Japan by watching it.

Attendees also viewed cherry blossoms blooming in the anime and were offered an opportunity to sample cherry blossom tea, try Tamagoyaki, or Japanese omelets, eat Japanese candy and more. Professor Omori ended the event by teaching the students to play “Jan Ken Pon,” or rock-paper-scissors, a game played almost every day in Japan, and sharing her favorite anime for them to watch.

Professor Omori shared, “I was very happy that I was able to hold an event and not only had students who were taking Japanese language classes come, but also students who don't normally speak Japanese, and I was able to talk with teachers from local high schools.”

Although people from all over the world watch anime, it is primarily created and focused on Japan and displays Japanese culture. On Sept. 27, Professor Omori introduced students, faculty, staff, and community members to the genre of anime. They watched a few clips of a popular anime called Ginatama, and Omori showed how anime is connected to Japan and Japanese culture.

According to Omori, “There are a lot of people who watch anime for fun, but from anime you can learn about Japanese culture, ways of thinking and the way of life that Japanese people take for granted. Since I am living in Scranton for a year and I’m from Japan, I wanted to share this with everyone from The University of Scranton.”

Professor Omori can be found in the Language Learning Center, O’Hara 306, on Wednesdays from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., for anyone interested in learning more about Japan or Anime.

Professor Konstantin Lyavdansky says his initial desire for learning about other countries converted into willingness to share about his own.

"What better way to share about your own country than to teach the language and history and literature of that country?" said Prof. Lyavdansky, a University of Scranton adjunct faculty member in the World Languages and Cultures Department since 1993. 

In his hometown of St. Petersburg, Russia, Lyavdansky, whose native language is Russian, first started learning English in elementary school. He said he became more serious about language once he entered St. Petersburg State University, where he majored in languages and philology.

"I wanted to know about other countries and how people live in different parts of the world. English seemed to be the most common at the time."

This semester, his courses include Intensive Russian, Introduction to Russian Literature, and Russian Culture and History.

Prof. Lyavdansky offers advice to students attempting to learn a language, shares his favorite course to teach and explains his role as a global officer.

What has been one of your favorite experiences teaching at Scranton?
"Communicating with students has been my favorite. They are bright, full of great ideas, and genuinely interested in learning."

What advice would you give a student trying to learn another language?
"Be serious. Learn a little every day and try to communicate from the beginning. Also try to watch news, movies, in the target language, and be positive about it."

Which course has been your favorite to teach and why?
"I like intensive Russian because at the end of the course I can see the progress and how students who come in with little knowledge emerge with the ability to communicate.

"What has been the most rewarding aspect of work in the World Language Department?
"One of them is teaching the students and meeting the Fulbright Teaching Assistants from all over the world. I also like the flexibility of my schedule and hours which makes a great work life balance."

Do you have any projects you’re currently working on and/ or any future projects you wish to work on?
"I work with the Commonwealth of PA in “Project GO.” GO means global officer, where I teach an intensive crash course of Russian to ROTC students from all over the country at Bloomsburg University."

 

 

By Shannon Bunn, student correspondent

Two members of The University of Scranton faculty in the Panuska College of Professional Studies, Michael Crowell, PT, DSc and Mary L. (Doyle) Troy, Ph.D., NCC, LPC ’95 G’20 advocate for veterans through their academic research and classroom education. 

"I think we owe it to our veterans to make sure they have the tools to live a healthy life. I’ve been involved with a veteran’s organization called Team RWB, whose mission is to enrich veterans' lives through physical fitness activities. This is something that I strongly believe in – the benefit of exercise, not just for physical health, but for mental health as well," said Dr. Crowell, an associate professor in the Department of Physical Therapy who teaches courses in Orthopedic Physical Therapy and Scientific Inquiry. 

"In addition to my work as a clinician, educator and researcher, I was also involved in a health and wellness initiative at the Army Surgeon General’s Office that sought to utilize these same principles in active duty Army Soldiers."

Dr. Troy, assistant professor in the Department of Counseling & Human Services Courses developed the course, Counseling with Veterans and Military.

"Professionally, I teach my students about the culture and needs of veterans. Personally, I am active in lobbying my government representatives for the needs of service members and veterans."

She has also presented on veterans' issues during a Scranton Faculty Workshop Series. 

"One of the key takeaways that I shared was how important it is for faculty to understand the different needs of veteran students (as compared to traditional students), as well as ways to help veteran students achieve success here at Scranton."

Drs. Crowell and Troy talk with Royal News about their military service, their academic research and presentations and what inspired them to their roles as educators.

A Word with Michael Crowell, PT, DSc

Q. What inspired you to pursue a career as an Orthopedic & Sports Physical Therapist after your time as a Field Artillery Officer with the U.S. Army?

"I have been an athlete for most of my life, playing lacrosse at West Point and continuing to compete in 5Ks and bike races after college. While I was interested in sports medicine and physical therapy during high school, an ACL injury at West Point solidified my interest. After four years as a Field Artillery officer stationed in Germany, I was lucky to be accepted to the Army-Baylor Doctoral Physical Therapy Program."

Q. You spent nearly two decades dedicated to this medical discipline within the U.S. Army everywhere from Baghdad, Iraq to West Point, New York. What brought you the most fulfillment in this role?

"The best parts of being a PT were in seeing the results of individual patients that I’ve treated and seeing the professional growth of sports PT fellows that I taught and mentored."

Q. What motivated you to become an educator in this field of study?

"Most of my greatest mentors were educators in some way. That is really a hallmark of medical professions; passing on your knowledge and expertise. I really see this as a way to make your impact greater than anything you could have with just your own patients."

Q: I've read that some of your some of your recent published research is related to veterans' issues and treatments, such as "The Effectiveness of Battlefield Acupuncture in Addition to Standard Physical Therapy Treatment after Shoulder Surgery: A Protocol for a Randomized Clinical Trial," among other studies. What interested you most about these studies? How do you feel that your time spent in service to your country helped you facilitate the research?

"I think research on topics important to these populations, such as pain management, is extremely important to help them perform at their best. My research focus has always been on topics that allow Soldiers and Cadets to return to their military duties as quickly as possible, but at the same time safely. I am particularly interested in these topics because I have seen many Soldiers return to duty before they are ready, often resulting in subsequent injuries."

Q. What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment in your career?

"I think my greatest accomplishment was my time as the Fellowship Director for the West Point Sports Physical Therapy Fellowship. During my four years as the Director, there were 11 program graduates who are now providing leadership and mentorship to physical therapists throughout the Army. The program was awarded $976K in grant funds, published 14 papers in peer-reviewed journals and presented over 20 abstracts at national conferences."

Q. What specific talents do you bring to the Panuska College of Professional Studies?

"I think the main thing I bring to PCPS is my expertise in orthopedics and sports physical therapy. I’ve spent the last 10 years working in the West Point Sports PT Fellowship, which is a great position to continue to build skill and expertise. A unique element that I bring is leadership. I’ve led a 30+ person field artillery platoon as a young 2nd Lieutenant, served as a personnel officer for a 450+ person field artillery battalion, and have been in charge of physical therapy clinics ranging from 4 to 20+ people." 

 

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A Word with Mary L. (Doyle) Troy, Ph.D., NCC, LPC ’95 G’20

Q: Your time as a member of U.S. Naval Security Force during Operation Desert Storm U.S. Naval Reserves included work at a Fleet Hospital in Saudi Arabia during Operation Desert Storm. Thank you for your service. What stands out in your mind from that time? How did it motivate you to pursue a career as an educator?

"Looking back, what stands out is the change of the public’s perception of the military. Due to the unpopularity of the Vietnam War, the public perception of the military (and service members) was quite poor. There was little respect for those who served in the military (apart from WWII veterans). Operation Desert Storm (the First Gulf War) helped changed that negative perception. The civilian population begin to understand you could protest military actions yet still support military service members. I believe this shift in public perception (and the support it has generated for service members and veterans) has helped greatly with service members’ and veterans’ mental health.

As an educator, I firmly believe that giving back and helping others is a vital part of my job. Serving in the military was a part of this foundational belief. My service in the military was a way to give back to a country where I have been given many opportunities. It was also a way to help protect and defend not only family and friends, but fellow citizens. As an educator, I now use my talents and voice to help protect and defend – by teaching students the skills they need to help others as well as using my voice to advocate for those marginalized in today’s world."

What inspired you to develop the course Counseling with Veterans and Military? What seems to resonate the most with students taking the course?

"The military is its own culture, with unique customs, traditions, ways of speaking and expectations. It is vital to understand this culture if you want to work with veterans. As a veteran and a counselor, I am privy to many of the unique mental health needs of today’s veterans. I was inspired to develop the Counseling With Veterans and Military course because of the great need for mental health services within the veteran population.

In a successful counseling therapeutic relationship, a key component is developing rapport. If the client doesn’t feel that the counselor understands them or their experiences, it is difficult to establish that rapport. This can often result in the client discontinuing counseling and therefore not receiving the help they need. My goal in developing the veterans course was to equip students with the background and knowledge to understand military culture and the unique mental health needs of those who have served, thereby expanding the number of counselors available to work with our veteran population."

Q: You earned your undergraduate and Master’s degrees from The University of Scranton. What brought you back to the University as an educator?

"The University of Scranton is a special place. Since I stepped foot on campus as an undergraduate, I have felt at home. Part of the reason I feel at home is the supportive community we have here. My undergrad and grad professors were a large part of that supportive community while I was a student. My hope is that I am now a support for my students."

Q. Your current role at The University of Scranton is assistant professor with the Department of Counseling and Human Services and prior to that you were an adjunct professor for over 18 years. How do you feel your work aligns with the University’s Jesuit mission?

"I often say my discipline (counseling) and the Jesuit mission of cura personalis (care for the whole person) go hand-in-hand, and so it is easy to align my work with Ignatian ideals. However, it goes deeper than that. As you walk around campus, you will notice almost every building has “AMDG” inscribed somewhere. This stands for “Ad maiorem Dei gloriam”, the Jesuit motto that means “For the greater glory of God”.

St. Ignatius states that everything we do should be for the greater glory of God. I feel I have been called to do this and am blessed that I get to work towards this goal in two ways with my career. As a counselor, I have the honor of walking alongside my clients as they work to overcome challenges and obstacles, heal from pain, and become the person they want to be. As a counselor educator in the Department of Counseling and Human Services, I have the privilege of helping my students learn and master the skills they need to help others, as well as understand the dignity and worth of all human beings."

Q: You’ve presented internationally on “The psychological impact of parental PTSD on children of military veterans,” among other topics related to veterans’ issues. Please share a bit about your research. What was a specific instance that you realized your work was making an impact?

"When working with veterans, it’s important to understand that their mental health doesn’t only affect them, it affects their whole family. My research looked at how a (veteran) parent’s PTSD affects the mental health of children. Children’s mental health needs can often get overlooked, especially when a parent is in crisis. My presentation was focused on what types of mental health issues present in children when a parent has PTSD, as well as tools and techniques to help children manage these issues in healthy, positive ways.

Counseling is a field where it can take years to know the impact of your work. I think knowing spreading awareness for a population that was often overlooked is the first step in impacting positive change."

Q: What do you view as one of the greatest accomplishments in your career?

"My greatest accomplishments have come when a student reaches out to say they felt supported by me or that my classroom or office felt like a safe space where they could be their authentic selves. Sounds mushy, but it is the truth. 😊"

Professor Franca Kelly, adjunct faculty in the World Languages Department, believes the best way to learn and become proficient in a language is by immersing oneself in that culture and language. Born in Italy, she speaks Italian, French, English and Spanish. Prof. Kelly joined The University of Scranton in 2019 and currently teaches Italian 101.

Her love for languages began when she traveled to England and worked in London. Interactions with people from various places sparked her interest and she soon began to study French and English at the University of Verona in Italy. Prof. Kelly spent a year studying at the Sorbonne University in Paris as an exchange student. She learned Spanish while attending the University of Texas at El Paso.

From a young age, Prof. Kelly had aspired to become a teacher. She graduated high school with a diploma in elementary school teaching. As an undergrad, she worked as a tutor for high school students and as a Girl Scout Leader for teenagers in Italy. As a graduate student, she began teaching Italian at West Virginia University.

Among Prof. Kelly's favorite aspects of teaching at Scranton have been the small class size and students who are very studious and engaged. As a member of the World Languages Department, she has most enjoyed meeting the Fulbright students from different countries. 

Language is about communication, so talking to native people of that language is one of the best ways to improve speaking and comprehension skills. Prof. Kelly also strongly suggests finding opportunities for listening, speaking, watching movies and shows on TV, and reading in that language. 

Vincent Farallo, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, was awarded a $488,947 grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to research the physiology and chemical ecology of poison frogs. The funding for the three-year project will allow for the participation of 30 or more undergraduate students, who will learn cutting-edge respirometry techniques as they work with faculty members. The study will also allow for the development of a frog breeding colony, which can be used for this – as well as future – research projects.

“Amphibians are especially susceptible to climate change as their physiologies, specifically respiration and other aspects of metabolism, are dependent on specific temperature and moisture conditions,” said Dr. Farallo, explaining that Neotropical poison frogs in the family Dendrobatidae, which will be used for the study, “also have specialized physiologies that allow them to sequester dietary alkaloids to be used as chemical defenses.”

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“Poison frogs, many of which are lethal in the wild, are no longer toxic in captivity,” said Dr. Farallo, explaining that their diet in the wild of ants and mites, enables their toxicity through a process called alkaloid sequestration. The frogs’ diet in captivity of fruit flies does not allow for them to maintain poisonous toxicity. The frogs do, however, retain their unique, bright coloring.

The study will allow for controlled levels of alkaloids to be reintroduced to the dendrobatid frogs and then measure how alkaloid sequestration by the frogs impacts ecologically relevant physiological processes, such as metabolism.

Dr. Farallo will train undergraduate students at Scranton to use sophisticated equipment to measure the frogs’ metabolism. They will collaborate with co-investigator Ralph Saporito, Ph.D., a chemical ecologist and professor of biology at John Carroll University, University Heights, Ohio, and undergraduate students at John Carroll for chemical analysis.

Both Scranton and its sister Jesuit university partners will share data gathered throughout this project and collaborate on research results.

Scranton students will also work to develop 10 breeding colonies of frogs.

“The breeding of colonies of frogs will provide long-term capacity and flexibility to enable future University students and faculty to conduct multiple research projects for years to come, long after this project has concluded,” said Dr. Farallo, who noted that the colonies will also allow for future community outreach programming with area schools and community groups.

“The charismatic nature of the frogs will also allow for outreach events, engaging the community to learn about ecophysiology and conservation,” said Dr. Farallo.

Dr. Farallo joined the faculty at Scranton in 2020. He has received several research grants, presented at numerous conferences and has co-authored several peer-reviewed journal articles. He held postdoctoral research positions at Yale University and Virginia Polytechnic Institute. He earned his bachelor’s degree from John Carroll University, his master’s degree from Texas State University-San Marco and his doctorate from Ohio University.

This year the World Languages and Cultures Department is pleased to host four Fulbright Teaching Assistants from Argentina, France, Tunisia and Germany, a visiting instructor from Japan, and a returning visiting instructor from Taiwan. To learn more about these instructors, please read their biographies below and watch this short video.

The 2023-2024 Fulbright teaching assistants, graduate assistants and visiting instructors include:

Sheila Mignolet - Argentina (Spanish)

Rahma Baklouti - Tunisia (Arabic)

Naoko Omori - Japan (Japanese)

Joshua Hartmann - Germany (German)

Héloïse Vérissi - France (French)

Yun (Lily) Chiang - Taiwan (Chinese)

Ximena Jimenez - LLC (Spanish)

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Sheila Mignolet

¡Hola a todos! My name is Sheila Mignolet and I was born in Cipolletti, Argentina. Cipolletti is a small city in the Rio Negro province, located at the top of the region called Patagonia. It is best known for its apple and pear exports, but you can find beautiful hidden places nearby such as Isla Jordan, Cueva del León, the riverbank, etcetera.

I was born and raised in Cipolletti, but I lived for five years in the city of General Roca, where I studied to become an English teacher. I graduated from the University of Comahue in 2017 and I have been working as an English teacher since then.  I have also participated in research projects that dealt with technology and good practices in education.

This is the first time that I am teaching Spanish as a Second Language, but I am eager to accept the challenge. I love reading books, dancing and making different types of crafts. I also enjoy learning about new cultures through their music and films, so my playlists often feature a mixture of languages. I am keen on bringing my knowledge into the classroom and making the most of my time at Scranton. I hope my students and I can learn from each other during my time as part of the Fulbright Teaching Assistant Program.

Rahma Baklouti

Hi everyone! My name is Rahma Baklouti, and I am the Arabic FLTA (Fulbright Language Teaching Assistant). I come from Tunisia. Tunisia is a small country in North Africa. Tunisian culture is highly diverse. Indeed, a significant number of Jews and Christians have lived among a Muslim majority for years. This diversity is also seen in the architecture of the capital, Tunis. The city blends ancient Arab Souks, Cathedrals, Mosques, and modern office buildings.

At the beginning of my studies, I was interested in the healthcare field so I majored in midwifery. My second major was in English. I hold a Bachelor in English language, literature, and civilization. Moreover, I hold an M.A. in American Studies from the Faculty of Human and Social Sciences of Tunis. Currently, I am a Ph.D. candidate at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities of Sousse, Tunisia.
For three years I worked as a teacher of foreign languages. I taught Arabic, French, and English in primary and secondary schools. Being a university teacher is my dream, therefore, I am here. I am jubilant and honored to teach at The University of Scranton, and I will do my best to help students learn about the Arabic culture and language.

Naoko Omori

こんにちは！

My name is Naoko Omori.  I was born in Kobe, Japan. After I graduating from University, I went to Australia for one year, worked for a scent marketing company, and worked for a shared office company in Japan.

I like eating, traveling, Japanese calligraphy, wearing a kimono and reading. Please let me know your favorite restaurant in Scranton!! I am looking forward to spending this year with you!

Joshua Hartmann

 Hallo! My name is Joshua Hartmann and I come from Radeburg, which is a very small but lovely town near Dresden, Germany. I´ve been studying English and geography for Secondary Education at the Technical University Dresden for four years now. (I would, by the way, deeply recommend visiting Dresden if you should ever have the chance to do so, it's a beautiful place!). I've been playing soccer since I was a kid and I enjoy any other kinds of sports and outdoor activities as well. I also have a passion for music and like to be creative with it.

Having the opportunity to be a Foreign Language Teaching Assistant, I am very happy and excited to share my culture with you and to guide and assist you on your journey of learning German, I hope to learn more about your culture as well! So, feel free to reach out to me anytime. I´m looking forward to it!

Héloïse Vérissi

Hi everyone! I am Héloïse Vérissi and I am from Paris, France. You may have heard of my city a couple of times. Between the beautiful architecture, great food, and a lot of cultural events, I do not think that it is possible to ever get bored in it! But France is a lot bigger than Paris and all our regions are so interesting and so unique.

If you like French cuisine, definitely check out the food from the South-West! I graduated from the University of Paris with a B.A. in English with a focus on English history and then I graduated from Université Paris Cité and University College Dublin last June with a M.A. in European history with a focus on Celtic history.
It is my very first time teaching and I am very excited to have been chosen to teach here for a year. I hope that I will be able to make my students as excited to speak about France and the French language as I am and I will be more than happy to answer any question you may have about my language or culture. 

Yun (Lily) Chiang

大家好！ My name is Chiang Yun. You can just call me Yun, or my English name, Lily. I was born in Taipei, Taiwan. You may not know where Taiwan is. Taiwan is a little island between China and Japan. Taiwan is a multicultural island which from China, Japan and Southeast Asia. Taipei is the capital of Taiwan, with a lot of delicious food and motorcycles. Have you tried bubble tea and hot pot? Try it and you will love it!

I graduated from Zhong Yuan University with a bachelor's degree in teaching Chinese as second language. After graduation, I taught at international Chinese school in Korea for six years, so I can speak Korean and I also like watching Korean dramas. While I was working, I went to National Taiwan Normal University to gain my master’s degree in teaching Chinese as second language. It was hard work, but worth it.

I like Chinese, Chinese is a beautiful Language with a lot of culture and history, I also like to experience different cultures. I am honored to teach in Scranton. Wish I could bring my knowledge to students, I believe (教学相长) students can learn from me, and l can learn from them, too.

The University of Scranton has appointed 22 new full-time faculty members for the 2023-2024 academic year.

Holly Avella, Ph.D. cand., was appointed as a visiting assistant professor in the Communication and Media Department. She most recently worked in the Department of Communication and Department of Journalism and Media Studies at Rutgers University and has worked at Manhattanville College, Marist College and Dutchess Community College. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in psychology at State University of New York at New Paltz and her Master of Science in education/mental health counseling psychology at Long Island University. She is a Ph.D. candidate in communication, information and media studies at Rutgers University. She has published and presented extensively, most recently in the realms of mental health and social media.

Patrick Beldio, Ph.D., was appointed as a visiting lecturer in the Theology/Religious Studies Department. He most recently was a professional lecturer in the Religion Department at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., and an adjunct professor in the Theology and Religious Studies Department at Marymount University in Arlington, Virginia. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in studio art and philosophy and Bachelor of Fine Arts in sculpture at the University of Notre Dame, his Master of Arts in systematic theology at The Washington Theological Union, his Master of Fine Arts in sculpture at The George Washington University, and his Ph.D. in religion and culture at The Catholic University of America. His first book on a contemporary Indian tradition called the “Integral Yoga of the Mother and Sri Aurobindo” is due out in 2024 with Lexington Press. He has operated personal businesses as a sacred visual artist and has a wide-ranging list of solo art projects, performances, exhibitions, peer-reviewed publications and academic presentations. He has been commissioned to create several artistic pieces for private collections and educational institutions.

Michele Boland was appointed as a faculty specialist in the Nursing Department. She most recently worked as nursing faculty for the Practical Nursing Program at the Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County and has been an adjunct faculty member and clinical instructor at The University of Scranton. She earned her Bachelor of Science in nursing at the University of Delaware and a Master of Science in nursing education at the University of Phoenix. In addition, she has a long history of direct patient care provision in diverse settings, as well as various roles within health care administration.   

Melanie Caughey, Ph.D., was appointed as an assistant professor in the Education Department. She most recently taught at Cleveland State University as a visiting assistant professor and coordinator of the Gifted and Talented Learners program and previously taught at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She has also worked with Vanderbilt Programs for Talented Youth and the Renzulli Center for Creativity, Gifted Education, and Talent Development at the University of Connecticut. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English and education at Bucknell University, a Master of Science in education at Duquesne University, and a Ph.D. in gifted education at the University of Virginia. She has published and presented numerous times on specialized topics involving gifted education.

Laura Chapman, Ph.D., was appointed as an assistant professor in the Health and Human Performance Department. She was most recently an assistant professor in the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at Appalachian State University. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in music and her Bachelor of Arts in communicative sciences and disorders at Michigan State University and her Master of Arts in speech-language pathology and Ph.D. in speech-language science at Ohio University. She has a lengthy publishing history and has presented both nationally and internationally. She resides in Clarks Summit.

Michael Crowell, PT, D.Sc., was appointed as an associate professor in the Physical Therapy Department. He was most recently the program director for the Baylor University - Keller Amy Community Hospital Division 1 Sports Physical Therapy Fellowship at the United States Military Academy at West Point and an associate professor at Baylor University. He earned his Bachelor of Science in chemistry and life sciences at the United States Military Academy and his Doctor of Physical Therapy and Doctor of Science in orthopaedic physical therapy at Baylor University. He is a board-certified clinical specialist in orthopaedic physical therapy and sports physical therapy and a fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists. 

Kristeen Elrod, Ph.D., was appointed as a lecturer in the Counseling and Human Services Department. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist and registered play therapy supervisor. She was most recently a term faculty member at Oregon State University and worked in private telehealth practice for Ginger & Pixie LLC in California. She earned her Master of Arts in professional counseling at Texas State University and her Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision at Oregon State University. She is pursuing a medical trauma counseling certificate.

 

 Mark Fenner, Ph.D., was appointed as an assistant professor in the Computing Sciences Department. A data and research scientist, developer and educator, Dr. Fenner, who operates Fenner Training and Consulting LLC in Forty Fort, earned his Bachelor of Science in computer science and psychology at Allegheny College.  He earned his Master of Arts in mathematics and Master of Science and Ph.D. in computer science at the University of Pittsburgh. He has taught at King’s College in Wilkes-Barre, Norwich University in Vermont and the University of Pittsburgh. 

Kelly Filchner, Ph.D., was appointed as an assistant professor in the Nursing Department. She was most recently director of clinical operations at Fox Chase Cancer Center Partners in Rockledge. She earned her Bachelor of Science in nursing at East Stroudsburg University, her Master of Science in nursing at DeSales University and her Ph.D. in nursing at Duquesne University. Dr. Filchner is a member of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, the Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society, and has researched and published on several cancer-related topics. 

 

Carrie Griffiths, OTD, was appointed as a faculty specialist in the Occupational Therapy Department. She was most recently the Program Director for the Occupational Therapy Assistant program at Lackawanna College. She earned her Bachelor of Science in occupational therapy at Mount Aloysius College, a Master of Science in occupational therapy at The University of Scranton and a doctorate in occupational therapy at Gannon University. Dr. Griffiths has clinical experience in a variety of practice areas, including acute care, in-patient rehabilitation, outpatient, behavioral health, hospice, skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities. In addition, she is employed by Jukebox Health where she conducts home safety assessments.

Anna Grippi was named a lecturer in the Nursing Department. She was previously a part-time faculty member in The University of Scranton Nursing Department, and prior to that appointment she worked as health coordinator for the Scranton Lackawanna Human Development Agency. She has been a clinical navigator, nurse reviewer for Federal Hearings and Appeals, a team nurse in mental health for the Scranton Counseling Center and a registered nurse on the neurological/trauma floor for Geisinger Community Medical Center. She earned her Bachelor of Science in nursing at Marywood University and her Master of Science in nursing at Aspen University with a specialization in nursing education. She resides in Dunmore. 

Michael Hague, Ph.D., was appointed as an assistant professor in the Biology Department. He was most recently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Montana. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in biology and environmental studies at Whitman College, his Master of Science in ecology, evolution and conservation biology at San Francisco State University and his Ph.D. in biology at the University of Virginia. He has been a distinguished teaching fellow at the University of Virginia and an adjunct instructor at Everest College in Utah.

 

Matthew Hale, Ph.D., was appointed as a visiting assistant professor in the Theology/Religious Studies Department. He was most recently an adjunct professor at Abilene Christian University’s Graduate School of Theology. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in biblical text at Lubbock Christian University, his Master of Arts in history and theology at Abilene Christian University and his master of philosophy and Ph.D. in historical and systematic theology at The Catholic University of America. He has been a teaching fellow at The Catholic University of America’s School of Theology and Religious Studies and has been a preacher in Texas. 

Samantha Herrick, Ph.D., was appointed as an associate professor in the Counseling & Human Services Department. She was most recently an associate professor in the Department of Psychiatric Rehabilitation and Counseling Professions at Rutgers University, where she received an Excellence in Teaching Award. She is also a mental health counselor with a private practice in Mahwah, New Jersey.  She earned her Bachelor of Arts in communications at the University of Rhode Island, her Master of Science in rehabilitation counseling and disability studies at Springfield College and her Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision at the Pennsylvania State University. Her research, publication and presentation history on disability and specifically Autism is extensive. She is also a 2015 inductee into the New England Basketball Hall of Fame. 

Geng Liu, Ph.D., was appointed as an assistant professor in the Physics/Engineering Department. He was most recently an assistant professor at King’s College in Wilkes-Barre. He earned his Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering at the University of Science and Technology of China and his Ph.D. in mechanical engineering at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing. He has been a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Maine at Orono and the University of Virginia, where he also was a teaching fellow and guest lecturer. He resides in Clarks Summit.

 

Christiane McDonald was appointed as a faculty specialist in the Health and Human Performance Department. She most recently worked as a speech-language pathologist with Presence/Ocean Springs School District, Mississippi. She was selected for specialized training in stuttering through the Palin PCI Eastern Workshop. She earned her Bachelor of Science in speech pathology and audiology at East Stroudsburg University and her Master of Science in speech-language pathology at Misericordia University.

 

Farshad Merrikh-Bayat, Ph.D., was appointed as an assistant professor in the Physics/Engineering Department. He most recently worked as a senior mechatronics engineer at ASML/Cymer in San Diego, California. He earned his Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering at K.N. Toosi University of Technology in Tehran, Iran, and his Master of Science and Ph.D. in electrical engineering-controls at Sharif University of Technology, also in Tehran. He has been an assistant and associate professor at the University of Zanjan in Zanjan, Iran, where he was a technical consultant and was chief of the electrical engineering department.

Katherine Stefanelli, Ph.D., was appointed as an assistant professor in the Counseling and Human Services Department. She most recently was coordinator of counseling and psychological services and a health and wellness educator at Penn State University Scranton Campus in Dunmore. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in psychology at the Pennsylvania State University, University Park, and her Master of Arts in clinical psychology, post-master’s certification in school counseling and Ph.D. in human development at Marywood University. She has been a licensed professional counselor in private practice in South Abington Township and has been an adjunct faculty member at Penn State Scranton and The University of Scranton.

Amy Szydlowski was appointed as a faculty specialist in the Health Administration and Human Resources Department. She was district executive director of the Pennsylvania Department of Health for the Northeast Region for more than a decade. She earned her Bachelor of Science in communication disorders at Pennsylvania State University, University Park, and her Master of Public Administration with certification in gerontology and Master of Social Work at Marywood University. She has been an adjunct faculty member at The University of Scranton and has worked in pharmaceutical sales for Pfizer and Janssen. She resides in Moosic.

Megan Whitbeck, Ph.D., was appointed as an assistant professor in the Counseling and Human Services Department. She served as a psychosocial rehabilitation counselor at a community mental health outpatient program in Central Florida for clients with severe and persistent mental illness, and has expertise in counseling individuals, families, couples, and college student populations. She earned her Bachelor of Science in psychology at the State University of New York at Cortland, her Master of Arts in clinical mental health counseling at the University of Central Florida and her Ph.D. in counseling and counselor education at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Katorah Williams, Ph.D., was appointed as an assistant professor in the Criminal Justice, Cybersecurity and Sociology Department. She earned her Bachelor of Science in neuroscience and psychology at Temple University, Philadelphia, her Master of Science in criminal justice at West Chester University of Pennsylvania and her Ph.D. in criminal justice at Temple University. As a research assistant at Temple University, she worked on projects related to adversarial decision-making, and social engineering education and experiential learning. Her current research explores conceptualizations of privacy and engagement in lateral surveillance. She has taught online courses in white collar crime and psychology and crime, and has been a teaching assistant for courses in criminal law, criminal courts and justice, criminal behavior and ethics, crime and justice.

Elin Woods was appointed as an assistant professor in the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Memorial Library. She was most recently a reference and interlibrary loan/adult programming librarian at Indiana Free Library in Indiana, Pennsylvania, and before that was a student success librarian at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in history at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and her Master of Science in library science at Clarion University of Pennsylvania. She is a co-author and co-editor of the book “Once Upon a Time in the Academic Library: Storytelling Skills for Librarians.”

 

Fulbright Scholar Joshua Hartmann of Germany, a secondary education major specializing in English and geography at Technische Universität Dresden, will present the next in a series of Global Insights programs. Registration is required for the Oct. 12 program that begins at 11:30 a.m. in the Kane Forum, Edward Leahy Hall, Room 235. 

Growing up in Radeburg, Germany, Hartmann played his favorite sport, fussball (German for football) which in the U.S. is known as soccer. “That was, and is, a big part of my life. I still play soccer. It is probably the most common activity and sport…in Germany. We have lot of leagues and a lot of teams. It is a great way to meet people.”

Hartmann describes the landscape in Germany near his hometown as “small towns, like islands of towns that are not connected. It is a rural area.” There, soccer connects people when they travel from town to town.

"The good thing about Berlin is when you are interested in visiting, you can see the historical side of it, but (today) it is also a lovely diverse, multicultural city with a lot of new aspects and influences to it, which is very interesting.”

Germany holds many must-see sites of both historic significance and natural wonder. Once torn in two, Berlin has grown in many ways, Hartmann said.

“The good thing about Berlin is when you are interested in visiting, you can see the historical side of it, but (today) it is also a lovely diverse, multicultural city with a lot of new aspects and influences to it.”  

He noted other areas of interest.

“I would definitely recommend going near the border to Austria where the Alps begin (Bavaria). There’s a beautiful landscape. You can go skiing and hiking. The most famous site there is the Castle of Neuschwanstein."
He referenced what is known as the castle of paradox, with creation and construction ordered by King Louis II (the Mad King) of Bavaria in 1864. Its historic, fortified, yet romantic design also offers modern creature comforts such as running hot water in the kitchen and baths, flushing toilets and central heating.

Hartmann will teach German at Scranton throughout the fall and spring semesters.

All faculty, staff and students are invited to attend the presentation and enjoy a cultural cuisine luncheon.

Register for Global Insights Germany.

This program is hosted by the Office of Global Education, the Cultural Centers, Residence Life and the Office of Equity and Diversity. For more information, please contact international@scranton.edu or 570-941-4841.

Stephen E. Whittaker, Ph.D., professor of English and theatre, received the John L. Earl III Award for service to the University, the faculty and the wider community. The 2023 John L. Earl III Award was presented at the University’s annual Fall Convocation, which took place on campus on Aug. 31.

The award is given annually to a member of the University community who demonstrates the spirit of generosity and dedication that the late Dr. John Earl, a distinguished professor of history, exemplified during his years at Scranton from 1964 to 1996.

Margarete L. Zalon, Ph.D., professor emerita of nursing and the 2022 John L. Earl III Award recipient, announced Dr. Whittaker as the 2023 recipient at the Fall Convocation. Rev. Joseph Marina, S.J., president of The University of Scranton, and Michelle Maldonado, Ph.D., provost and senior vice president of academic affairs, along with Karen Earl Kolon, M.D. ’85, daughter of the late John Earl, presented the award to Dr. Whittaker.

Described as the quintessential Renaissance man by Dr. Zalon in announcing the award, Dr. Whittaker was also noted as “a highly-regarded speaker at faculty seminars,” and a faculty member frequently invited to speak at classes “across virtually all disciplines at the University.”

Known for his exacting standards, Dr. Whittaker teaches several of the University’s most-demanding – and most-rewarding – courses. He also serves as moderator for Esprit, the University’s journal of arts and letters.

In addition to his teaching and research, during his four decades of service at Scranton, Dr. Whittaker has served on numerous committees and boards, including the Faculty Senate, FAC and as the acting chair of the English and Theatre Department.

Dr. Whittaker received the University’s 2017 Excellence for University Service and Leadership Award, which recognizes faculty members who have contributed service to the University community, particularly those who demonstrate academic leadership by effectively mentoring their junior colleagues. He received the University’s 2020 Magis Award for Excellence in Adapting Classic Principles of Jesuit Pedagogy into the Curriculum. This award recognizes a faculty member who makes specific, sustained and creative efforts to adapt classic principles of Jesuit Pedagogy in his or her own courses.

Dr. Whittaker joined the University’s faculty in 1983. He earned his bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Texas.

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