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Oswego Alumni Association of the State University of New York at Oswego n Vol. 36, No. 3 n summer 2010
n Rebuilding
a City, One House at a Time
Jennifer Shropshire '86 and Rebuilding Together Philadelphia
n A Gift for Gags n 1969 – The Year
that Changed Eveything n Life in Splinter Village
th 0 5 1 b s ' i o r g thday e w s O f o n u ! f e h t JUNE 10-12
n i n i Jo
An opportunity like this only comes along once every 150 years!
Be a part of history by joining in Oswego's Sesquicentennial Reunion Celebration, June 10-12, 2011. It's been a century and a half since founder Edward Austin Sheldon realized his dream of a school to educate teachers on the shores of Lake Ontario. Now the college is celebrating its 150th and you're invited! Reunion 2011 will recognize in a special way the milestone anniversary classes and other groups on board for mini-reunions, but all alumni are invited to the biggest alumni party of them all. We'll have special Sesquicentennial events and exhibits, and will debut our "Oswego 150: Alumni Views and Voices" DVD. You can be a special part of this milestone Reunion Celebration, by joining a Reunion 2011 committee. Help plan Reunion events or contact classmates to encourage them to join the fun. To become a reunion volunteer or plan a mini-reunion for your group or organization, please contact the Alumni Office by Oct. 1, 2010. These milestone classes and groups are planning events: 75th - 1936 70th - 1941 65th - 1946 60th - 1951 55th - 1956 50th - 1961 45th - 1966
40th - 1971 30th - 1980, 1981, 1982 25th - 1986 10th - 2001 5th - 2005, 2006, 2007
A E Phi – 25th Anniversary Beta Tau Epsilon Delta Chi Omega/TKE Delta Kappa Kappa – 85th Anniversary Phi Lambda Phi Sigma Gamma Theta Chi Rho
Reunion Hotline: 315-312-5559 Watch your mailbox for our Reunion 2011 mailer E-mail: email@example.com coming soon. www.oswego.edu/reunion
summer 2010
Alumni Association of the State University of New York at Oswego Vol. 36, No. 3
1969–The Year That Changed Everything
Jim Gemza '70, a photographer for the Oswegonian and Ontarian, was an eyewitness to the end of one era and the beginning of another. Here he shares his photos of the fall 1969 freshman class — a snapshot in time of a class that would see their world change from one of bobby socks and beanies to sit-ins and sandals.
Life in Splinter Village
Veterans studying on the GI Bill and their families found a home on campus in Splinter Village, a prominent part of the college landscape in the late '40s and early '50s. David Kidd '49 takes us on a tour of his Splinter Village apartment.
Rebuilding a City, One House at a Time
For nearly two decades, Rebuilding Together Philadelphia has made Jennifer Shropshire '86 feel good — while doing good — from the ground up.
A Gift for Gags
Reader's Digest's most published cartoonist and greeting card crafter Dan Reynolds '81 uses humor to entertain and heal. PLUS
Campus Currents Calendar Class Notes Weddings In Memoriam
3 13 36 44 45
W e b e x tr a s
Check out Oswego alumni magazine online for extra content including photos, video and story "extras" at oswego.edu/alumni/magazine 8
O n T h e C o v e r : Jennifer Shropshire '86 and her fellow volunteers are rebuilding Philadelphia, one house at a time. Photo by Todd Vachon
from the
President's Desks A
t first blush, it may seem that this issue is just a random collection of stories. But they do have one vital thread in common. Whether we are talking about the humor of cartoonist Dan Reynolds '81 and how he uses it to reach out to cancer patients, Jennifer Shropshire '86 and her Rebuilding Together volunteer work President uniting people in need with Deborah F. willing hands to renovate their Stanley homes, the GIs who made a community in Splinter Village or the Boomers who shared societal shifts, we are focusing on the importance of human connections. These connections are at the heart and soul of what we do in education — and especially at SUNY Oswego. Our students and alumni tell us time and again that the personal engagement and mentoring provided by our faculty are key to their success in life. Ever since Edward Austin Sheldon walked these grounds, Oswego has provided hands-on student experiences in real world problems. Now we offer the same priceless opportunities both on campus
Oswego Alumni Magazine
in research and scholarly activities or in internships, service learning, and study and research abroad. This is what Oswego does best — we bring smart people together in a human environment to interpret the past, look at the present and propose possible solutions for the future. After all, what is college, if not an opportunity to reflect, explore, test ideas, argue, think against the grain, stretch known boundaries, to not be afraid or rejecting, and to practice the exercise of personal freedom in a way that is simply not possible later in life? It is what our alumni tell us is the most important asset we offer at SUNY Oswego — an opportunity to interact face to face with professors who have a real sense of who you are as a person. So enjoy the stories in this issue and keep on making and maintaining those connections — with friends you lived and learned alongside here, with your former professors and, of course, with your alma mater.
Deborah F. Stanley, President
the Editor's Pen 'll never forget September 1969. I was an innocent freshman entering college, the first in my family to do so. My footlocker was packed with wool plaid skirts, knee socks and saddle shoes. I eagerly attended Orientation and met my roommate — similarly clad in "appropriate attire" — at a picnic on the quad. I was full of starry-eyed wonder and convinced I would be a crusading journalist who would write brilliant investigative pieces and eventually win a Pulitzer Prize. Four years later, as I picked up a diploma and headed out to graduate school, I had seen our country rocked by strife, generation pitted against generation. I had lived through the student strike of spring 1970 and served as a "peace marshal" for a demonstration on campus. Tie-dyed T-shirts, ripped jeans and water buffalo sandals replaced the preppy clothes I first came to campus with. Most of my peers had undergone a similar transformation. So when
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Julie Harrison Blissert Adele Burk Keith Edelman '10 John Gray '85 David Kidd '49 Tim Nekritz M '05 Contributing Writers Stephen D. Cannerelli Robert J. Clark '78 Keith Edelman '10 Jim Feeney Robert Mescavage Jose Terrero '10 Tina Ruth Todd Vachon Chuck Wainwright Jen Weisbord Contributing Photographers
The Oswego Alumni Association, Inc. Board of Directors William Schreiner '92 President Steve Doran '82 First Vice President Nancy Smith Salisbury '93 Second Vice President Jennifer Shropshire '86 Past President Elizabeth Locke Oberst Executive Director Tim Barnhart '02 Paul Brennan '93 Michael Byrne '79 Mike Caldwell '10 Keith Chamberlain '87 Lisa Court '83 *John Daken '66 **Kerry Casey Dorsey '81
Jerry Esposito '70 Maureen Flynn '04 Ana Rodriguez King '94 Amy Lalonde '12 Judy Letvak '83 Don Levine '78 Linda Loomis '90 Steve Messina '91 Josh Miller '08 Anchal Mohan '05 Karyn Rose '96 Thomas Ryan '74 *Kay Benedict Sgarlata '65 **Deborah F. Stanley Chris Thuman '06 Rick Yacobush '77 * At large ** Ex officio
State University of New York at Oswego
F ro m
Elizabeth Locke Oberst Publisher Michele Reed Editor Shane M. Liebler Associate Editor Jim Russell '83 Staff Photographer Kiefer Creative Graphic Design Lisa Potter Memorials Stefanie Beekman '10 Intern
Jim Gemza '70 shared his wonderful photos with the Alumni Office it was like stepping back into a world that no longer existed. His shots of the freshmen of 1969 took me back more than 40 years. Here they were, in the frosh beanies at orientation, riding on floats in the Homecoming Parade, celebrating Greek life in matching blazers. It's no wonder Barbra Streisand's "The Way We Were" topped the charts in 1973. We — the newly minted graduates of that era — were all too cognizant that there was a "way we were" that would never be the same again. Whatever generation you come from, I hope you enjoy the look at a snapshot in time.
Michele A. Reed, Oswego editor
Deborah F. Stanley President Lorrie Clemo Interim Provost Nicholas Lyons Vice President for Administration and Finance
Kerry Casey Dorsey '81 Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations Joseph Grant Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management
Office of Alumni and Parent Relations King Alumni Hall SUNY Oswego, Oswego, NY 13126 Phone: 315-312-2258 Fax: 315-312-5570 E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com Web site: oswego.edu/alumni
Oswego is published three times a year by the Oswego Alumni Association Inc., King Alumni Hall, State University of New York at Oswego, Oswego, NY 13126. It is distributed free of charge to alumni, friends, faculty, staff and families of current students. Printed August 2010. Oswego alumni magazine is printed on 30 percent post-consumer recycled paper with inks that contain soy oil in a facility that is 100 percent hydropowered.
Thanks to you — 7,533 alumni, faculty and staff, parents
In our continuing effort to carefully steward
and friends of SUNY Oswego — The Fund for Oswego raised
donations to the college and our planet's
$3,053,171 from July 1, 2009, to June 30, 2010. Your donations to The Fund for Oswego are making an immediate and positive impact on the lives of our students. By supporting Oswego's students during these challenging economic times, you have chosen to make a sound investment in the future. Your gifts help meet the most pressing needs of SUNY Oswego
t YOUR Im pac 2009 -2010 H on or Ro ll at io n of A pp re ci
natural resources, the Oswego College Foundation has moved from a printed honor roll of donors to an online listing. This switch will save $7,132 in printing and design costs, $2,128 in postage and approximately 80 hours in staff time — all
resources which can be put to better use enhancing the SUNY Oswego
and its students, who appreciate your support as they work hard to
educational experience for our students and faculty. These
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savings mean more books for the library, more computer equipment
graduates, they will be empowered to make important and lasting con-
in labs and more support for cutting-edge academic programs that
tributions to benefit society.
will better position our students to compete in the current tough job
On behalf of all of our students and faculty members, thank you
market. In addition, by not printing 7,500 copies of our 40-page honor
for your generous gifts. Your support today will help our students
roll, we are saving precious trees, water and fuel, not to mention addi-
become tomorrow's leaders and innovators.
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Thank you for your generosity!
your homes. We invite you to visit oswego.edu/giving/honor_roll for the 2009-2010 Honor Roll of Appreciation this fall. A significant factor in the move to an online honor roll was to protect our donors' privacy. Please note that an Internet search of any individual's name will not link to the donor listing.
Nonprofit US Postage PAID Oswego Alumni Association King Alumni Hall Oswego, NY 13126 If Oswego is addressed to a son or daughter who has graduated and no longer maintains a permanent address at your home, please clip the address label and return it with the correct address to the Oswego Alumni Association, SUNY Oswego, Oswego, N.Y. 13126, or e-mail the updated address to firstname.lastname@example.com
Growing a new generation of energized leaders. For more, visit oswego.edu/core.
Please recycle this magazine.
Dr. John E. Cooper s a high school athlete in Indiana, John E. Cooper was guided by the legendary basketball coach John Wooden. Times were tough and Cooper realized it would be better for his family if, rather than play ball, he graduated in January and worked the extra few months until he enrolled in college in the fall of 1940. Wooden "sympathized with me and was very supportive," Cooper recalls. Wooden became a role model for the young man, especially "in the fact that he was a true gentleman, was kind and thoughtful." Little did Cooper know that he would be remembered in his own career as professor and chair of education at Oswego, for the traits he admired in Wooden. After earning his bachelor's degree at Ball State University, Cooper did indeed follow in Wooden's footsteps as a teacher and coach at South Bend, and later as an elementary school principal. He earned his doctorate at Indiana University, after which he taught at Central Michigan University, University of Colorado and Parsons College. He joined the Oswego faculty in 1967 and relished the chance to "exercise leadership in an entirely new situation." The college was going through a period of change, putting more emphasis on the liberal arts as opposed to its traditional emphasis on education as a profession.
As chair of the elementary education department, Cooper saw his challenge as to upgrade education as a major at Oswego. He wanted to work with other departments and create cross-disciplinary courses. He developed "Power, Politics and Public Education," which offered graduate credit in political science or education, as well as initiating a seminar in elementary education designed around problems that teachers themselves faced in the classroom. "Students on the graduate level were more conscious of what they needed," he said. "The courses on the undergraduate level seemed so remote from their own experiences." The graduate students likewise appreciated him. "He was a great help, insight and inspiration in getting my master's at Oswego," said Ed Fayette M'87. Cooper did not just lecture about the history of education. "I'm much more in favor of problem solving and bringing things over to students and letting them work with things that most need help." Cooper loved teamwork and often collaborated with people across campus dedicated to the growth of future teachers. Some had been there in the old days when the college was quite small or came to Oswego after teaching at bigger schools. Some, like Marilynn Smiley, Herb Van Schaack '51, Ralph Spencer, Paul Liebenauer, Mario Rabozzi and J. Sherwood
photo provided
Dr. John E. Cooper
Dunham became kindred souls who even today maintain a friendship with the Cooper family. He also enjoyed playing handball with colleagues in departments as diverse as psychology, physical education and physics. Since his retirement in 1985, he has enjoyed more than two dozen Elderhostels and traveled to more than 20 countries. He is devoted to his family, including his four children, seven grandchildren, and great granddaughter, as well as his faith and church. But he is above all an educator, and whether he spends his time tutoring and helping children at elementary schools in Wilmington, N.C.; or teaching about the English language at a retirement home, he is focused on keeping learning fun, just like he did in his classes at Oswego. — Michele Reed
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Chancellor unveils 'Power of SUNY' strategic plan
Jim Russell '83
tate University of New York Chancellor Nancy L. Zimpher unveiled the strategic plan for the university system in April. "The Power of SUNY," which will serve as a roadmap for the state system's 64 campuses over the next five years and guide their development for a decade, focuses on economic development and improving quality of life in New York. The strategic plan is organized around six "big ideas," with chapter titles linking SUNY to the Entrepreneurial Century, Seamless Educational Pipeline, a Healthier New York, an Energy-Smart New York, Vibrant Community and the World. Each big idea includes three initiatives with measurable results. "The call for accountability has never been louder. We must deliver results in a more meaningful and measurable way to show New Yorkers that we mean what we say," said Zimpher. The plan also shows how each big idea advances the university's commitment to diversity.
SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher visited Oswego as part of a 64-campus swing gathering feedback for "The Power of SUNY."
photo provided
President Deborah F. Stanley emceed "Power of SUNY" launch events in Albany and Syracuse.
"SUNY Oswego has long adhered to an economic prosperity model," said President Deborah F. Stanley, in welcoming the new plan. "As the leading employer in Oswego County, we employ 1,754 people and bring more than $345 million annually in added wealth to the seven-county Central New York region." In addition, SUNY Oswego injected nearly $428 million into New York state's economy — an exceptionally good return on the state's net appropriation of $55 million dollars, according to Prospering Together, the college's most-recent report of its economic impact, released in February. Since 1998, the college's physical improvements have resulted in more than $400 million in capital and construction spending, adding 450 new jobs to the region. Stanley estimated that planned capital improvements would amount to $300 million in spending and 350 new jobs over the next five years. SUNY Oswego builds the foundation of sustained economic growth and ensures a long-term regional competitive advantage by preparing more than 8,300 students
each year for higher value-added work and increased productivity, Stanley added. She pointed out that the earnings of the college's graduates create economic gains that compound year after year as demand for highly skilled labor grows exponentially in today's knowledge economy. "We take seriously the fact that SUNY Oswego plays an important leadership role in job creation and economic development in Central New York and welcome the responsibility to improve the overall quality of life in our community through the quality programs and services we provide," Stanley said.
SUNY Oswego injected nearly $428 million into New York state's economy... —Prospering Together
Stanley was one of 17 members of the chancellor's steering committee for the new plan, and several members of the Oswego community served on the "Group of 200," who helped with the debate and exchange of ideas leading up to the plan's launch and will serve as messengers and thought leaders for the finished plan. They include Vice President of Finance and Budget Nicholas A. Lyons, faculty members Shashi Kanbur and Marcia Burrell, and students Keith Edelman '10, Kate Haefele '09 and Stefen Short '10. The president welcomed Chancellor Zimpher to Oswego in July 2009 as the new leader made a tour of all 64 campuses in the SUNY system and held "town hall" meetings to gather information for the planning process. l
Read more at SUNY.edu/powerofsuny 3
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Stanley receives Achievement Award
SBA honored mall-business advisers based at SUNY Oswego and Jefferson Community College have won a national award from the U.S. Small Business Administration. The SUNY Oswego Small Business Development Center, as part of the Watertown Regional SBDC, received the Service Excellence and Innovation Award this May in Washington, D.C., during the National Small Business Week observance. Competition for the award is intense: There are 953 regional SBDCs in the United States and its territories. In the decade the Oswego unit of the Watertown Regional SBDC has been open, the office has created or saved 1,584 jobs and helped business people find $59.1 million in funding. l
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President Deborah F. Stanley, center, receives the 2010 Post-Standard Achievement Award from, at left, Candace Edwards, president of the Syracuse Federation of Women's Clubs, and Michael J. Connor, executive editor of The Post-Standard.
Convocation keynote urges students to 'Just Say Yes' Honors Convocation keynote speaker Lisa Tamilia '89 urged the assembled students to "just say yes" April 23 at the Campus Center. Tamilia spoke at the formal academic ceremony, where more than 100 SUNY Oswego students received awards for their academic achievements. She urged the students to say yes to becoming positive and enthusiastic, to working through college, to opportunity, to volunteerism and to cultivating relationships. Tamilia encouraged the honorees to embrace obstacles, accept offers of help from alumni, improve the world and have a sense of humor. "Each of you have the ability, heart and smarts to make changes to improve life and work," she told the students. l — Michele Reed
Jim Russell '83
Jim Russell '83
President Deborah F. Stanley was one of eight honored with 2010 PostStandard Achievement Awards in April. The Syracuse newspaper has bestowed these awards for more than 50 years on individuals who make significant contributions to the people of Central New York. The story profiling Stanley as an honoree stated: "The State University of New York at Oswego's president has helped update the college's facilities, spearhead a major fundraising campaign, institute innovative programs for first-year students and increase enrollment." It also cited the opening of the SUNY Oswego Metro Center in downtown Syracuse; specific campus renewal projects, including the Campus Center, science building renovations and new townhouses for upper-division students; the new needsbased Possibility Scholarship to help students in Oswego and Syracuse earn degrees in science and technology without incurring debt; and Oswego having been named one of the "Top Up-and-Coming Schools" for 2010 by U.S. News and World Report. l
Lisa Tamilia '89 addresses more than 100 award recipients during Honors Convocation.
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photo provided
of people you enjoy being he Beta Gamma Sigma around." honor society for business Festa and his wife, Marythis spring recognized W.R. Lynn Barbero Festa '82, Grace CEO Fred Festa '81. support critical internship "Oswego holds an and fellowship experiences for important part of who I am," Oswego students through the Festa said in a pre-recorded Festa Fellowship program. speech played for 36 students His full speech to BGS inducted into BGS April 23. inductees can be viewed at "My time there as a student oswego.edu/alumni/magazine helped me enter the business Candidates for inducworld on a strong footing. Fred Festa '81 tion into BGS must achieve a "Even more important, grade point average that ranks in the top 10 it gave me a new perspective that I've carried percent of their class. with me for all my life," he said. Only colleges with accreditation by the Festa told the students that the traits of a Association to Advance Collegiate Schools good leader are easy to recognize, but someof Business may have Beta Gamma Sigma times hard to replicate. "Good leadership chapters. About one-third of U.S. business requires us to tell people what they need to schools, including Oswego, are accredited. l hear, not necessarily what they want to hear. — Shane M. Liebler "These leaders are thoughtful and enthusiastic," he added. "They're the kind
Jennifer Weisbord
Festa recognized by business honorary
Signing Bonus More than 150 Oswego alumni attended a reading and book signing with Ken Auletta '63, author of Googled: The End of the World as We Know It this April at the Harvard Club of New York City. Here, the New Yorker columnist and noted media commentator signs copies of his new book for New York State Supreme Court Judge Harold Adler '70.
OAA wins international award The Oswego Alumni Association won a Silver Award in the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education's international Circle of Excellence Program. The award, for the 2009 "New Year's Flash" e-mail, came in the Alumni Relations Programs: Creative Use of New Media category. Judges considered 33 entries in the category and gave one gold and two silver awards. "We have sent holiday greeting e-mails in previous years, but this one, enlivened with candid video of campus, was extremely successful in helping the Oswego Alumni Association generate positive — and warm — feelings on a cold winter's day," said Betsy Oberst, OAA executive director. The e-mail greeting, sent to all alumni for whom Oswego had e-mail addresses in January 2009, conveyed OAA's holiday greetings in a lighthearted manner. Local freelance videographer Tina Ruth took candid video of Oswego
Within moments of the e-mail's sending, alumni began to write back with their comments — which were overwhelmingly favorable. They loved the candid nature of the video and the scenes of Oswego in snow. Some comments: "Thank you! It is a pleasure to receive such warm and pleasant greetings from one of the best homes I have had over the past 40 years." "Your video brought tears to my eyes. I so loved my years at Oswego." students, faculty members, staff of the alumni and development offices, and shots of campus. Technology Education Professor John Belt grouped his students under a geodesic dome. The women's hockey team skated up and sprayed ice at the camera. And a silly group of students were filmed sledding down Fallbrook hill — and falling off the sled!
"GREAT video!! This was the most effective alumni communication I have ever received from Oswego." "That was awesome! I don't know if it's because it brought back such great memories … but it made me smile and cry at the same time." l — Michele Reed Watch the video at oswego.edu/alumni/ magazine
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Graduates celebrated at Torchlight Ceremony The Oswego Alumni Association welcomed some of its newest members during the Commencement Eve Torchlight Ceremony, which drew more than 650 alumni, graduating seniors, parents, Jim Russell '83
World Wrestling Entertainment COO Donna Goldsmith '82 speaks during the May 14 Torchlight Ceremony.
faculty and staff to the north lawn of the Campus Center. World Wrestling Entertainment Chief Operating Officer Donna Goldsmith '82, emceed the event, a campus tradition for more than seven decades, and encouraged students to give their time and talent back to Oswego. "Even with the demands of my job... I take time to help steer SUNY Oswego graduates in the right direction," she said. "It's really important that alumni connect with students." Goldsmith said she was "proud and privileged" to have career success rivaling that of high school classmates who went on to Ivy League institutions. "SUNY Oswego played a major part in getting me where I am today," said Goldsmith, whose career has also included executive positions at Revlon, Swatch Watch and the National Basketball Association. l — Shane M. Liebler
Remember the old Paul Simon song, "50 Ways to Leave Your Lover"? Now you can help Oswego alumni magazine share "150 Ways We Love Oswego." In honor of the college's Sesquicentennial in 2011, we're collecting a list of the 150 things our alumni, faculty, staff and students love most about "the friendly college by the lake." Sure the lake will make the list, along with those awesome sunsets and our legendary snow. It's your job to dig deep into your banks of memories and find the other 147 things that make our alma mater so unique. Send your ideas to alumni@ oswego.edu with 150 LOVE in the subject line or mail them to King Alumni Hall, 300 Washington Blvd., Oswego, NY 13126. l
Paul to students: Dream big ewton Paul '97, M '99 spoke to Oswego middle schoolers at a luncheon and awards ceremony for the Oswego Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa in March. A sourcing manager for Par Pharmaceuti cals, Paul recalled a middle school guidance counselor who told him he was destined to be a farmer based on a single test score. He urged students to take risks and think beyond their imposed limitations. Paul and his brothers had to fend for themselves academically because of their Haitian immigrant parents' language barrier. The people who made a difference in his life were like the members of ODK honor society, he said. "We were very thankful for the teachers and the people who cared that actually inspired us and took the time to help us develop," Paul said. l — Keith Edelman '10
Summer 2010
Keith Edelman '10
CORRECTIONS The name of Nassau Community College student St. Jermaine Endeley was misspelled in a caption appearing on page 32 of the Spring 2010 issue. Michael Sopchak was incorrectly identified as an alumnus on page 47 of the Spring 2010 issue. Michael Sopchak, who passed away Nov. 28, 2008, was listed as a 1986 graduate in error. He is not an alumnus but the father of William Sopchak '79.
Newton Paul '97, M '99 encouraged Oswego middle schoolers to follow their dreams at an Omicron Delta Kappa luncheon this spring at Sheldon Hall.
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Oswego signs first global laboratory partnerships
PHOTO provided
resident Deborah F. Stanley traveled to the fast-developing northeastern region of Brazil in June to sign three agreements that establish the first in Oswego's planned world-spanning network of global laboratories. The network is a key component of the college's new Possibility Scholarship program, which assists talented students in the sciences with tuition, room and board and provides hands-on research and international learning experiences. Four Possibility Scholars are due to enroll in the fall (see p. 18). The agreements signed June 18 at the Alagoas governor's palace in Maceio are with the Federal University of Alagoas, Federal University of Paraiba in Joao Pessoa and the state of Alagoas. "What we embark on today has the potential to change the way that young scientists are educated and the way that challenging world problems are solved in the 21st century," Stanley said at the signing ceremony. "These new partnerships will strengthen relationships between scientists from each of our nations for the purpose of developing the next generation of highly skilled, globally engaged scientists."
President Deborah F. Stanley addresses a group gathered for the signing of the agreements on Oswego's global laboratories in Maceio, Brazil. To her left is the vice governor of the state of Alagoas, Jose Wanderley Neto, and to his left is Janesmar Camilo de Mendoca Cavalcanti, the secretary of science, technology and innovation. Fourth from the front on the right is Michael J. Stanley, SUNY associate to the president, and opposite him is Mark Baum '81, chair of the Oswego College Foundation board of directors development committee.
Exchanges engaged The Federal University of Alagoas and Federal University of Paraiba in Joao Pessoa are research universities enrolling 16,000 and 26,000 students, respectively. The agreements with the universities will allow for student and faculty exchanges and research collaborations as well as the global laboratories. The umbrella agreement with the state of Alagoas allows Oswego to enter partnerships with any university in the state. "The state-level agreement with Alagoas signifies their commitment to training global scientists prepared to meet the complex problems we face in our world," said Lorrie Clemo, interim provost. Conversations with the Alagoas secretary of science, technology and innovation began last November when a delegation from SUNY Oswego visited several federal universities to examine laboratory facilities and the scope of research being conducted in northeastern
Brazil. "Impressed with what we saw and the enthusiasm expressed by Brazilian faculty and government officials, we selected several universities as sites for the global labs," Clemo said. Separately while in Brazil, Stanley signed a global laboratory agreement with the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sol, where Cleane Medeiros of Oswego's biological sciences faculty works with researchers charting the ecological future of the Pantanal region. Medeiros has led groups of Oswego students to this sensitive wetlands area for three years, giving them hands-on experience studying the region's diverse flora and fauna. l — Julie Harrison Blissert
Big changes @oswego.edu A special agreement between Google and SUNY made way for the e-mail service upgrade. Moreau explained that Google offers better service and greater capacity for e-mail accounts than the previous system. "In the past, when someone left or graduated, that account remained active for 13 months and then we would recycle the account," Moreau said. Google's robustness makes the recycling unnecessary. The Class of 2010 is the first to keep their oswego.edu e-mail addresses permanently, but alumni of all eras are invited to get a free LakerApps account. To get started, contact the Oswego Alumni Association at firstname.lastname@example.com or call 315-312-2258. l
Alumni can now receive or revive an @oswego.edu e-mail address — and get a whole lot more. Campus Technology Services recently introduced LakerApps, a suite of services from Google that includes e-mail, calendar, document, chat and other cloud computing functions. Alumni will be able to get the same service as college employees and current students, including seven gigabytes of storage, according to Chief Technology Officer Joseph Moreau. "Keeping oswego.edu e-mail addresses after graduation has long been a request of our graduates," Oswego Alumni Association Executive Director Betsy Oberst said. "This is another valuable service we can offer our alumni and a great way to keep them connected with the college."
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One to 'Remember' Robert J. Clark '78 Jose Terrero '10
More than 1,100 SUNY Oswego alumni accepted the invitation to "Come Remember" at Reunion 2010 June 10 to 13. Classes and groups converged on campus to celebrate milestone anniversaries, meet longtime friends and reminisce during the memories-themed weekend. "I came back because I wanted to see all the beautiful new buildings and changes on campus," said Tom Hanford '00, a former Student Association member and Oswegonian staffer. "We were still watching the Lakers in Romney back then." Some alumni brought physical relics from their days on campus. Arlene Madalena Weyer '60 shared one-gallon Zip-Loc® bags full of pieces from her past, including men's basketball programs, sock hop tickets and her driver's education guide, at the Class of 1960 Tea and Remembrance Ceremony at Shady Shore. Ted Rosen '70 didn't wear a special vest from a senior year piano recital he performed, but he did tote the token around with him. A friend made the green vest for him and it was a fond memory for Rosen. "It's been in my college memorabilia box for a good 40 years," he said. "This is my first Reunion and I couldn't resist bringing it around." The weekend included more than 50 events on campus and in town, many of which were documented by Oswego Alumni Association photographers. Visit oswego.edu/reunion to see a complete gallery or post some of your own Reunion shots at facebook.com/oswegoalumni. l — Shane M. Liebler Jim Russell '83
Keith Edelman '10
Members of the Golden Alumni Society enjoy a Sheldon Hall tour on Reunion Saturday.
More than 600 attended the "Come as You Were BBQ" at Fallbrook on Reunion Friday, June 11. Oswego
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Currents Jose Terrero '10
Jennifer Broderick
Jim Russell '83 Jose Terrero '10
Keith Edelman '10 Jim Russell '83
Dozens of events for many different groups and classes all had one thing in common: plenty of smiles.
Garrett Finocchiaro of Chicago accompanied his mother, Betty DeVito '60, who was celebrating her class' 50th anniversary.
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Adopt-a-School project shows varied lessons through arts Jim Russell '83
Fourth-grade students in Oswego's Kingsford Park Elementary learned about art, community history and other subjects in the first Adopt-a-School partnership for SUNY Oswego's School of Communication, Media and the Arts. The results — drawings of local noteworthy buildings — were seen in the college's Tyler Art Gallery in the Kingsford Park Elementary Project exhibition this spring. "We have resources at the college that can benefit local schools," said Julie Pretzat, associate CMA dean. "With the tightening of budgets for the arts everywhere, this is a way we can help." At Kingsford Park, Lisa Langlois of the SUNY Oswego art faculty and visiting artist Joe Rial helped fourth-grade classes taught by Laurie Yule '85, M '92 working on local history components. A pair of SUNY Oswego student organizations, Arts Alive and Breakthru Design, proved helpful, Langlois said, with members going to Kingsford Park three times a week to help youngsters with their creations. College students helping fourth-graders at Kingsford Park included Toni Burrows '11, Lauren Burke '11, Catherine McCarthy '10, Breanne Regano '10, Michael Sturdevant '10 and Beth Swenson '10. CMA received additional funding support for the Adopt-aSchool project from Alliance Bank and the college's Women's Center and School of Education. l — Tim Nekritz M'05
The Kingsford Park Elementary School 4th grade class visited SUNY Oswego's Tyler Hall to see their drawings exhibited in the art gallery and visit with college art students for a variety of studio demonstrations, including ceramics, oil painting, drawing, photography and screen printing. Mike Sturdevant '10, a bachelor of fine arts major, shows the class how the potter's wheel is used to make a vase.
Jim Russell '83
Radio legend retires John Krauss '71, front and center, retired after nearly 40 years with WRVO-FM, the public radio station housed on campus. For the last 13 years, Krauss served as general manager of the station, which has a weekly audience of 80,000 listeners. Pictured at a farewell gathering in March, are, front row from left, Jeff Windsor '96, Ryan Morden, Krauss, Pam Allen Cantine '92, Bonnie Prime and Mark Lavonier; second row from left, Fred Vigeant '02, Kate DeForest Percival '96, Jasmyn Belcher '06, Matt Seubert '97 and Paul DeLaubell, and back row, from left, Lee Mitchell, Jason Smith, Liz Christensen '98 and Dave Bullard. Oswego
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Be social, stay current with the Oswego Alumni Association The Oswego Alumni Association is using the power of social media to connect with alumni, and help them connect with each other, on the Web. Oswego graduates are invited to "like" the OAA at facebook.com/ oswegoalumni, "follow" at twitter. com/oswegoalumni or get LinkedIn at tinyurl.com/oaalink. Get connected and stay current with upcoming events, the latest news and much more. In the spirit of this issue of Oswego magazine, readers are encouraged to post their own Reunion 2010 photos and share reminiscences at the OAA Facebook page. Find a listing of all the OAA's social media and other services at oswego.edu/alumni. l
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Oswego names CMA dean
Welcome, newest alumni More than 1,400 students became the college's newest alumni following the 149th Commencement ceremonies May 15 in the Campus Center arena and convocation hall. Commencement speaker Naomi Wolf, pictured below, urged graduates to embrace and protect their freedom as they make their ways. "I can tell [you] are engaged, idealistic, full of really important dreams for the future and … are going to take a huge part in saving the country and world," the feminist author and political activist said. l
Jim Russell '83
Jim Russell '83
administration, a wonderful, ritz Messere '71, M '76 was creative faculty who are appointed founding dean leaders in their fields and who of the new School of Commutake time to nurture students, nication, Media and the Arts support creative endeavors this spring. and challenge students to do A member of the commutheir best work. nication studies faculty since "And, we have a remark1977, Messere is a former able group of alumni who coordinator of its broadhave become leaders in their casting and mass communicafields and in the arts. What tion program and two-time department chair. He has Fritz Messere '71, M '76 a tremendous combination of riches for our students!" served as interim dean of the he added. "As an alumnus, I know how School of Communication, Media and much Oswego helped shape my vision of the Arts since it was established in January the world and the role media plays in our 2008. Recognized as a national expert culture. I look forward to working with on telecommunications policy, he is the President [Deborah F.] Stanley and our co-author of a leading text on broadcasting amazing faculty to make Oswego the very in the cyber age. best public institution for the study of "Oswego is blessed in so many ways," communication, media and the arts." l said Messere. "We have a forward-thinking
Economic recovery funds boost Oswego research project Jim Russell '83
A SUNY Oswego team's groundbreaking research on the effects of low levels of lead in children's bloodstreams broke through the stiff competition for federal stimulus funds and brought a job to campus in January. Kristen Roosa '09, a biology major, now works full time in Snygg Hall as a member of the research team led by Dr. Brooks Gump in Oswego's psychology department. Dr. James MacKenzie of biological sciences and Dr. Kestas Bendinskas of chemistry also take part. They are working to confirm their initial findings that lead adversely affects the young cardiovascular system's response to psychological stress and to investigate the complex biochemical interplay that is causing that effect. Gump received $96,895 from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences for his team's project when additional federal research funds became available last year through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act — also known as the stimulus package. In addition to Roosa's position, which ends in August, the grant funds the analysis of 100 children's blood samples at the National Center for Glycomics and Glycoproteomics at Indiana University. Last year, preliminary results of the Oswego project appeared in news stories around the world when the United Press International and Reuters wire services reported on a paper that MacKenzie presented at the annual meeting of the American Physiological Society. Roosa was among his co-authors, because she began working with him on the project while she was still an undergraduate. Roosa, of Weedsport, said she plans to enroll in a doctoral program in the fall and pursue a career in the kind of work she has been doing with MacKenzie, Gump and Bendinskas.
Kristen Roosa '09 has a full-time position with the SUNY Oswego interdisciplinary research team that is investigating the effects of low levels of lead in children's blood on their cardiovascular health. A grant made possible by the federal stimulus package helps to support the project and funds her position.
Her principal responsibility at Oswego has been analyzing samples of blood for apolipoprotein E, a protein that correlates with cardiovascular disease risk. Earlier blood studies showed that this protein is related to lead concentrations. l — Julie Harrison Blissert 11
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Currents Jim Russell '83
Technology students win national awards
swego's team of nine students competed in four events and won two firstplace awards and one second-place award at the Technology Education Collegiate Association national conference in March in Charlotte, N.C. The team, which included Jeffrey Abrey '10, Kenneth Bouwens '10, Kelsey Roman '10, Andrew Dunlop '11, Laurie Edwards '10, Kristopher Taffner '10, Paul Rotstein '10, Mike Petrone '10 and Chris Pohlman '10, earned first place in the "Teaching a Lesson" and "Technology Live Communications" competitions. The team was runner up in the "Technology Live Problem Solving" format. The OTEA students traveled with technology faculty members Thomas Kubicki and Daniel Tryon '89, advisers for the Student Association-sponsored Oswego Technology Education Association. l
Oswego students will soon be ringing your number. Annual Telefund calling begins in early September. Telefund Manager Dominick White '08, front and center, posed for an Oswego family portrait with some of last year's calling crew. Pictured from left are Valentina Capone '10, Derek Fogelson '10, Marisa Pettus '10, Nicole Chiappetta '10, Lauren Barth '10, Bridget Smith '10, Christina Gallo '10, Alissa Lusardi '10 and Ryan Nordman '10.
December graduate wins PRWeek student of the year
photo provided
professional, it's not his March, Sean that different," Whelan Whelan '09 won the said. "You just have to PRWeek Student of the carry yourself well and Year competition, which have confidence in your comes with a $5,000 prize campaign and your attriand a paid internship with butes as a speaker." sponsoring agency HillOswego's success Knowlton. comes in part because Whelan and Eileen submissions are worked O'Neill '10 were among the into the COM 415 five finalists, the fourth year "Advanced Public Relain a row Oswego has had at Sean Whelan '09 tions" class as a final least one finalist in the presproject, Professor Tina tigious competition. Pieraccini said. Many colleges coordiThe Poughkeepsie resident later nate through a student organization or learned he had become the first Oswego as a suggested project, but making it part representative to make it into the top of the class provides the opportunity for two finalists. students to learn through examples and "The live competition was stressful guest lectures. l and exciting but when you compare — Tim Nekritz M'05 it to what you would have to do as far as presenting to real clients as a PR
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Find the Founder! IN THE SPRING 2010 ISSUE, the founder could be found on page 27 to the left of the full-size Edward Austin Sheldon statue. The grand prize winner of a bookstore gift certificate and Sheldon Hall print is Emile Germains '60. Winning Sheldon Hall prints are Alexandra Ackerman '07, Patricia Ekert Balthasar '92, Ronald Pianowski '72, Gerald Eichin '62 and Stacey Mousaw-Carpenter '92. A tiny replica of the Sheldon statue pictured here is hidden somewhere in this issue. Find the Founder and send us a letter with the location and page number, your name, class year and address. We will draw one entry at random from all the correct answers and the winner will receive a $25 gift certificate to the College Store and a print of Sheldon Hall. The next five entries drawn will receive Sheldon Hall prints. Send your entry to Find the Founder, 219 Sheldon Hall, SUNY Oswego, Oswego, NY 13126. Entries must be postmarked by Oct. 1.
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Two enjoy rare educational opportunity
Stephen D. Cannerelli, The Post-Standard
hris Priedemann MSED '10 knows he has a passion for teaching. The prestigious Knowles Science Teaching Foundation knows he has the talent to make a big impact in the field. The recent graduate of the SUNY Oswego master's program in education is entering his third year of a Knowles Fellowship worth up to $150,000. Only about two dozen of the five-year fellowships are awarded each year nationwide. The foundation selects "a highly accomplished group of educators … [who are] redefining teaching by bringing a high level of commitment and enthusiasm to their profession," according to the Knowles Foundation website. "I think it's a testament to the program we have at Oswego," said Priedemann, who is one of two Oswegonian Knowles fellows. "We're right up there with the Ivy League schools when it comes to teaching." Graduate assistant David Streib MSED '10 was recently selected as a Knowles fellow. Nationally, only 32 were named fellows in 2010; he joins three others from New York state.
August 27 Welcoming Torchlight* September 3 Green and Gold Day – Wear your Oswego colors!* September 12 Buffalo Bills game and tailgate* September 17 Sciences groundbreaking ceremony September 17 The Village Townhouses grand opening September 28 Women's Connections conference
David Streib MSED '10
Photo provided
Chris Priedemann MSED '10
The fellowships provide tuition assistance, summer stipends and financial support for professional development, like intensive conferences and workshops. Fellows work to develop one lesson plan on a particular subject that they will then share with peers across the country. "All of our ideas keep coming back to the same place. And that is: How are we going to get our students to remember these things 10 years from now?" said Priedemann, who earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees in science from Furman University in South Carolina. And how does one make those lasting impressions? "You have to make it authentic," he said. "'I'm going to teach you the skills and tools you need to solve these problems and we're going to look at it through the lens of chemistry.'" Priedemann decided to pursue his master's in education at Oswego because of its reputation and a little family history, too. Grandparents John '51 and Rose Valiante Bente '53 are both proud graduates of the School of Education, he said. Priedemann will stay in Upstate New York as he begins teaching at Green Tech High Charter School in Albany this fall. The work he's done during his fellowship is already paying dividends as he prepares for the school year, he said. "It's become more of a way of life than just an educational opportunity," Priedemann said.
October 8 Oswego College Foundation Board of Directors meeting** October 9 Oswego Alumni Association Board of Directors meeting* October 9 Communication Studies alumni dinner October TBD Dr. Lewis B. O'Donnell Media Summit** October 15-17 Family and Friends Weekend October 18-19 School of Business Symposium October 30 Athletic Hall of Fame induction* November 11 Washington, D.C., reception and book signing with Ken Auletta '63, author of Googled: The End of the World as We Know It.* December 17 Commencement Eve Dessert Reception* December 18 Commencement January 1 Alumni Awards nominations due* January 1 Athletic Hall of Fame nominations due* * Office of Alumni and Parent Relations, 315-312-2258 ** Office of University Development, 315-312-3003
Streib works with foreign exchange students at Oswego as part of a summer English as a Second Language program. The Alfred University engineering degree-holder recently told the Syracuse Post-Standard that he confirmed his interest in teaching while working with children in Ecuador shortly after earning his bachelor's degree. He enrolled at SUNY Oswego when he returned to the states and plans to graduate in December. l — Shane M. Liebler
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Currents Men's Ice Hockey
Sports Women's Ice Hockey
he Laker women's ice hockey team remained in the thick of the ECAC West playoff chase until the final week of the season, but narrowly missed the postseason, finishing with a league mark of 5-12-1 and an overall record of 7-17-1. Several memorable moments occurred during the squad's fourth year of existence under head coach Diane Dillon, including Oswego State placing second at the Rutland Herald Invitational where Emily Grippin '11 was named to the all-tournament team. Jenna Kirkwood '10 graduated as the all-time leading point- and goal-scorer in program history with 47 points and 28 goals. Emi Williams '11 finished the season with 654 saves, a .915 save percentage, a 2.96 goals against average and a 61-save performance against top-ranked Plattsburgh.
Oswego State Sports Information Office
he Laker men's hockey team recorded one of the most successful seasons in program history. Oswego put together a 22-game win streak to ascend to the top of the national polls, where it remained for 10 straight weeks en route to winning the Pathfinder Bank Classic and the SUNY Athletic Conference Championship and regular season title, defeating Plattsburgh three times along the way. The 26-3-0 Lakers returned to the NCAA Division III Men's Ice Hockey Championships for the first time since 2007, falling to St. Norbert 4-3 in the semifinal round. In SUNYAC postseason awards, Eric Selleck '12 was named the Herb Hammond Most Valuable Player, a First Team AllAmerican and finished as runner-up for the Sid Watson Award, given to the best player in Division III. Jon Whitelaw '13 was named SUNYAC Rookie of the Year and head coach Ed Gosek '83, M '01was selected as SUNYAC Coach of the Year. Kevin Huinink '11 was selected as the SUNYAC Championship MVP. At the NCAA Division I Frozen Four Skills Challenge, Neil Musselwhite '10, the lone Division III representative, won the Fastest Skater competition with a new event record time of 14.3 seconds and placed second in the Hardest Shot contest with a shot of 91.8 mph.
the tourney MVP and Hayden Ward '13 was selected to the all-tournament squad. Oswego State clinched a spot in the SUNYAC playoffs with a regular season league mark of 7-11, finishing the year at 13-13 overall. Burridge, who was named to the AllSUNYAC Second Team, ranked in the top five of four league statistical categories including scoring, overall rebounding, offensive rebounds and blocked shots. He led the Lakers in scoring and rebounds, compiling 447 points and 202 rebounds. Entering next season, he needs 216 points to become the 15th Oswego State men's basketball player to reach the 1,000-point plateau.
Men's Basketball
he 2009-10 Oswego State men's basketball team under first-year head coach Adam Stockwell started the season strong by taking first place at the Max Ziel Tournament where Chad Burridge '12 was named
Kayla Ryan '12 ranked fourth in the SUNYAC in steals and 10th in scoring and blocked shots. JIM FEENEY
Women's Basketball
The Laker men's hockey team was crowned SUNYAC regular season and conference champs, and returned to the NCAA Div. III Frozen Four, falling in the semifinals to St. Norbert. Oswego
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hird-year head coach Tracy Bruno and the Oswego State women's basketball team used a five-game winning streak in January to help clinch the fifth seed in the SUNYAC playoffs with a league record of 10-8 and ending the season at 13-13 overall. The Lakers took second place in the Max Ziel Tournament as Kayla Ryan '12 and Colleen McCready '11 received alltournament honors. Ryan went on to receive Second Team All-SUNYAC recognition after ranking fourth in the league in steals and 10th in scoring and blocked shots. McCready was named Honorable Mention All-SUNYAC as she ranked second in blocked shots and fieldgoal percentage and seventh in rebounds.
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Currents Oswego State Sports Information Office
Plan now to attend the
Oswego Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Dinner Saturday Oct. 30 Congratulations to the 2010 Athletic Hall of Fame inductees: n
Wrestler Eric Leusch '10 finished the season with a record of 26-12 in the 285-pound weight class as he captured third place at the ECWC Championships and seventh place at the NYIS.
ead coach Mike Howard '90 and the Oswego State wrestling program recorded several team and individual successes, including a fifth-place finish at the Empire Collegiate Wrestling Conference Championships and a 10th-place result at the New York Intercollegiate State Championships, while posting a 4-9 record in dual meets. Eric Leusch '10 finished the season with a record of 26-12 in the 285-pound weight class as he captured third place at the ECWC Championships and seventh place at the NYIS. A trio of wrestlers garnered fourth-place honors at the ECWC, including Brandon Heffernan '11 at 141 pounds, Blake Fisher '12 at 149 pounds, and Marc Collins '11 at 165 pounds. Other notable results came at the NYIS Championships where Omar Santiago '13 placed eighth at 133 pounds, Chris Payne '12 finished seventh at 141 pounds, and Fisher placed eighth.
Swimming and Diving
t was another successful season for the Oswego State men's and women's swimming and diving programs under third-year head coach Mike Holman '96, as both squads finished in fifth place at the SUNYAC Championships and sent a contingent of three divers to the NCAA Championships in March. Jenny VanEtten '10, crowned SUNYAC conference champion in the 200-meter individual medley with a time of 2:10.73 (more than two seconds faster than the next competitor), was named to the AllSUNYAC First Team. Eric Messina '12
joined VanEtten as an event champion and an All-SUNYAC First Team selection after he won the 3-meter diving event with 508.60 points and finished fourth on the 1-meter board with 452.85 points, and was later named the SUNYAC Co-Diver of the Meet. All-SUNYAC Second Team honorees included divers Shawn Merlin '11, Eileen McMahon '10 and swimmer Dereck Harmon '13. The real story of the season came at the NCAA Championships in Minneapolis, Minn., as Messina, Merlin and McMahon combined to collect three All-America honors and three Honorable Mention AllAmerica honors. Messina placed fourth on both the 1-meter and 3-meter springboards, while Merlin captured seventh on the 1-meter and ninth on the 3-meter boards. Both divers compiled 51 points for Oswego State for a program-best 18th-place finish. McMahon became the first female Laker diver in program history to qualify for the NCAA Championships. She placed 10th on the 1-meter board and 14th on the 3-meter board to help Oswego State place 41st in the team standings. As a result of their success, diving coach John Moore was named NCAA Division III Men's Diving National Coach of the Year.
Indoor Track and Field
he Oswego State men's and women's indoor track and field teams each finished in eighth place at the SUNYAC Championships in February, while select members of the men's squad placed 29th at the ECAC Championships. Roger Trigo '13 led the way for 15
n n n n n n
Barry Dillon '85 Baseball James Hauptfleisch '77 Wrestling Michael Snell '87 Men's Ice Hockey Eileen Sommers '83 Women's Basketball Charles Wiltse '63 Cross Country and Track Robert Zabronsky '82 Men's Soccer Dick Johnson Supporter
For more information: oswego.edu/alumni/upcoming_events
the Lakers at the SUNYAC Championships, garnering second place honors in the shot put with a throw of 46 feet, 11 1/2 inches(14.31m). His efforts landed him on the All-SUNYAC Second Team. Mike Chamberlin '12 posted the best Laker showing at the ECAC Championships, placing fourth in the long jump with a school-record leap of 22 feet, 2 1/4 inches (6.76 m), bettering the previous mark he had established two weeks prior, while also competing in the triple jump. AJ Carapella '10 turned in a personal-best time of 22.91 seconds to finish ninth in the 200-meter dash at the ECACs. He set a new program mark in the 60-meter dash with a time of 7.21 seconds near the end of the season. On the women's side, Megan Boggan '10 was the most consistent performer as she broke her own school record in the 300-meter dash with a time of 43.73 seconds. A new standard was set in the 600 meters by Angeleen Tauriello '13 with a mark of 1:47.14. l — Adele Burk Sports Information Director Oswego
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The Year that Changed E v e r y t h i n g Photos by Jim Gemza '70 Story by Michele Reed
Summer 2010
very generation has one — the day that changed everything. Oct. 24, 1929; Dec. 7, 1941; Nov. 22, 1963; Sept. 11, 2001. For many Boomers, there's a day in 1969 that changed the world forever. It may be July 20, 1969, when humans first walked on the surface of the moon; Aug. 15 to 18, 1969, at the Woodstock Festival; or just a quiet personal moment, when they realized that the world they had grown up in — the world of sock hops, homecoming parades and surfer songs — would never exist again. Freshmen who entered Oswego in 1969 saw their world rocked by change before they would graduate — and many participated in seismic societal
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"I was in between — didn't want to take sides. I just covered the events with pictures." —Jim Gemza '70
shifts. There would be anti-war demonstrations at Culkin Hall, a march on the Post Office downtown to protest the draft, the recognition of the Black Student Union as a Student Association organization. "The moonwalk was the highlight of the summer of '69," said Professor of Communication Studies Tina
Pieraccini, who graduated from high school and began college that year. The Beatles played their last public performance that year, and John Lennon and Yoko Ono had their "bed-ins." "It was the end of an era," she said. While some may argue 1967 or 1968 as turning points, Pieraccini says the seeds of change were sown in those years, but came to fruition in 1969. Heralding the change of an era of pop music to that of "peace and love," Pieraccini said, was the Woodstock Festival of Music and Art in Bethel, Aug. 15 to 18. Monterey Pop Festival preceded it in 1967, but was setting the stage for Woodstock's threeday gathering of half a million music lovers and 32 iconic bands, listed by Rolling Stone magazine as one of the "50 Moments that Changed the History of Rock and Roll."
In December 1969, another music festival, this time at California's Altamont Speedway, would result in violence and death at the hands of the Hell's Angels motorcycle gang. "Easy Rider" and "Midnight Cowboy" premiered on the silver screen that year, and the movie industry became more youth-oriented with the messages of the counterculture, instead of mere escapist entertainment, she said. Even the news media changed. Coverage of Sen. Ted Kennedy's accident at Chappaquiddick put a prominent politician under the microscope
for an event that an earlier generation might have ignored. Murders by Charles Manson and his followers also made headlines that year. "'Sesame Street' debuted in 1969 and changed both the Public Broadcasting Service and our educational system. Four years later, children were entering kindergarten and first grade already knowing their numbers and letters," said Pieraccini, the author of Color Television: 60 Years of AfricanAmerican and Latino Images on Prime Time and Pink Television: 60 Years of Women on Prime Time.
Eye on an era
Jim Gemza '70 was a senior in 1969, a photojournalist on the staff of both the Oswegonian and the Ontarian yearbook. He chronicled the first days of the Class of 1973, as they attended Orientation with their beanies and bobby socks, and represented their Greek organizations in the Homecoming parade. Before he left campus in 1971, after staying an extra year to take graduate courses and continue working for the Ontarian, he saw the changes in student life and attitude.
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"I was with the Oswegonian," he said in a recent phone interview. "We wrote on issues of freedom, [being] free in spirit, the image of freedom." Gemza was a bit more conservative than some of his classmates. He enlisted in the military after graduation, serving in Germany. Many of his peers felt differently. "The big issue was the draft — people rebelling against government," he said. "Everybody wanted to do their own thing. That was the big thing: Do your own thing." Gemza says he regrets what he sees as the demise of the Greek organizations caused by that independent attitude. A member of Beta Tau Epsilon and president of the fraternity in Spring 1970, he cherishes the brotherhood he experienced in the group. Despite the fact that the fraternity disbanded in the mid-'70s, dozens of brothers have returned for Beta reunions during recent Reunion Weekends.
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A psychology major at Oswego, Gemza would go on to earn an MBA at Suffolk University in Boston and have a successful career in business. He works for Mohawk Home Comfort Services, owned by Superior Plus Energy. He's still a photography buff, and contributes photos to his hometown papers, especially on behalf of the Revolutionary Trails Boy Scout Council in Utica, for which he volunteers. But he remembers those pivotal years at Oswego keenly. "I was in between — didn't want to take sides. I just covered the events with pictures," he said. His evocative images capture the college on the cusp of a new era and record a way of life that would never be the same again. l
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ith an unprecedented influx of new students to Oswego State after World War II thanks to the GI Bill, President Ralph Swetman named a "Committee of Four," the late Dorothy Mott and James Hastings '41 as well as William Reynolds '49 and Willard Allen '47, to solve a pressing need for student housing. By 1947, they had secured 25 Army surplus barracks from Camp Shanks near Poughkeepsie. Dubbed "Splinter Village," the structures sat on the bluff behind what is now Park Hall and housed about 225 people each semester. Life in Splinter Village was an adventure. David Kidd '49 shares his experience in this excerpt from his memoir, Splinter Village: 1947-1949.
Barbara W illiams Kid d and Ginger the dog
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Life in Splinter Village Was Unique "The Apartments" By David Kidd '49 About mid-June, 1947, [my wife, Barbara, and I] moved to Splinter Village from Shady Shore, the president's home, where we had lived during the spring semester of 1947. Officially, the apartments were nameless, but within a short period of time, the occupants referred to them as Splinter Village. Later, as children were born, there was some discussion to change the name to Fertile Valley, but it remained Splinter Village. Each apartment was heated by a coal stove in the living room. Depending on the severity of the winter, and the number of days wood was used to take the chill off during the spring and fall, one or two tons of coal was sufficient for the winter. A large box with a hinged cover was located outside under the kitchen window. The box held one ton of coal. Within a few weeks, we installed floor covering in the kitchen and painted the living room, bedroom and bath. We wallpapered one wall in the living room and bedroom, which was
all the rage at the time. We chose wallpaper instead of paint for the kitchen. After waiting 18 months since I had enrolled as a freshman, we finally had a home to call our own.
"Living at Splinter Village" John '49 and Evelyn Day lived in the apartment next to ours. Even though neither of us had a telephone, we talked almost daily. Our bedrooms shared a common wall. If we raised our voices a bit, the wall was no barrier to carrying on a conversation. Our bedroom and their bathroom also shared a common wall, but that was more of a problem for them than it was for us. Since the walls were not sound proof, the four of us had a good laugh on the night the Day's bed collapsed. We were about as close as two couples could be.
John Day '49 and his wife, Evelyn
Living in Splinter Village was inexpensive, and we had sufficient income to live quite well. Rent was $18 per month, utilities were free, and food prices scarcely increased during the 1940's. Car payments, car insurance and maintenance were the most expensive items in our budget, but gasoline was cheap at less than 20 cents a gallon. We could round trip to Syracuse for a dollar's worth of gas. Our monthly allotment check from the federal government was $90 and Barbara earned the minimum wage of 50 cents an hour or $20 per week. My dad sent a check for $45 on the first day of each month to compensate for not having to pay for my tuition. At the time, tuition at state colleges was less than $300 per year. My dad actually overpaid me. With the increase in enrollment following World War II, colleges and universities struggled financially to meet the need for more teaching staff, classroom space and student housing. Oswego applied for and received authorization from the federal government to charge non-resident tuition for all students whose education was funded through the G.I. Bill. During the two years we lived in Splinter Village, no one suggested having a block party or some other activity to bring the residents together, nor was there a need to. Everyone had their own circle of friends. l David Kidd '49 served on the Oswego Alumni Association board of directors from 1991 until June 30 of this year. A Leadership Reunion Volunteer numerous times for the Class of 1949, he also served on the Oswego College Foundation board of directors from 1996 to 2002. In addition to Splinter Village, 1947-1949, he is the author of Camp Oswego: Recollections and Shady Shore, 1947.
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Todd Vachon
Rebuilding a
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a City,
One House One By Michele Reed
at a Time
Alumna's volunteer effort restores homes, hope in Philly neighborhoods
Todd Vachon
any people spend their spring weekends on home improvement projects like painting, replacing floors or gardening. Jennifer Shropshire '86 does, too — except in her case the homes belong to people in need in Philadelphia's inner city. For nearly two decades, Shropshire has volunteered with Rebuilding Together Philadelphia and now serves as president of the organization's board of directors. "It changes people's perception of the world in a way that they don't forget," she says of the project. "That's why I and so many other people keep coming back." The work from home to home is the same in so many ways, she says, but what is different are the individual stories of the people RTP helps. "There is a whole life behind each family." Take the Vietnam vet whose war experience left him paranoid. Although it made him extremely uncomfortable to let people inside, eventually he allowed an RTP crew to fix up the home he had grown up in. "At first it freaked him out to have people running all over his house," Shropshire remembers.
Popular Mechanics employees, including the publisher, installed a community garden in Germantown's Wister neighborhood at the June 5 Rebuilding Together Philadelphia project.
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The crew had to work hard to make the veteran feel comfortable, but when Shropshire came to see him as the job was nearly done, he was showing people around with pride. "It was a like a house tour where the wealthy show people around their multimillion dollar houses, but without the big ego," she remembers. "When I told the team captain, she burst into tears." One woman had her home destroyed by fire — but not her spirit. Her daughter's ex had torched the house, trapping and killing her daughter and grandchildren in the fire. "That's enough to knock you down for the rest of your life. Instead, she became a Red Cross spokesperson," Shropshire recalls. The RTP volunteers finished up the work the Red Cross couldn't do for the homeowner, who was a "dream to work with," Shropshire says. "She was such an example of gratitude and giving back; I can't even explain her response to a situation that would leave most of us devastated and justifiably selfish." Another story shows that a tool can build more than a house — it can create hope. Crew members always try to involve the family in the work of fixing up their own home, to the extent they are able. But one volunteer went out of her way to take the teenage son of the family under her wing, sharing her tool belt and teaching him how to make some of the repairs. The young man is now enrolled in a vocational technical program, learning the construction trade. "It was a gateway for him to try something he had no conception of," Shropshire says. While affluent parents can expose their children to all sorts of experiences, inner city kids don't have a lot of chances to see what they might be good at, she adds.
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Profound, tangible work
hropshire readily admits she is amazed at some of the skills her volunteers possess. While she pitches in when and where needed ("mostly non-painting jobs," she says with a giggle), her current work with RTP draws on her organizational and public relations skills. She began her involvement as a graduate student at The Wharton School of Business of the University of Pennsylvania. At Club Day, where organizations set up booths looking for student involvement, she went to an informational meeting for Christmas in April (which eventually became Rebuilding Together) and left a house captain. After the first build day, she was hooked. "We worked on a huge old house in West Philly. We were in way over our heads, but we fell in love with the organization by doing it," she says. For Shropshire, the building was a welcome change from her schoolwork. "It's so profound, so tangible, the work that we do to help people," she says. "For me, it was such a balance from the classroom, which was very intense, very cerebral, pulling in everything you can to solve a problem. This was physical, hard, wonderful." Even after graduating from Wharton with her MBA in 1996, she kept coming back, and is now in her 17th year with the group, the last eight as president. "Not many people wanted to do behind-the-scenes work like PR, fundraising, volunteer recruitment," she says. It's the kind of work she has done throughout her professional life, as development director of the Walnut Street Theatre to her current work as a partner in Edward F. Swenson & Associates Inc., consulting with non-profit organizations. "This allows me to use my skills for a project I love," she explains. Those skills are extremely important to her local chapter but also the national organization, according to John J. White, vice president for business development
and advocacy of the national Rebuilding Together organization. "Last summer, Rebuilding Together Philadelphia partnered with the national office and HGTV, and repaired and rehabilitated a group home for veterans in the city of Philadelphia," White said. "They did a wonderful project. It was an example of Jenn's leadership and of her board in managing a major rebuild of high profile with a national impact." About two years ago, he said, RTP lost its executive director to an illness. "That was a very difficult time for that affiliate and Jenn rallied her board and the volunteer community and really kept the boat afloat," White said. "It's another example of her leadership in a time of crisis. The program got through that very difficult period and is prospering."
Hugs and hinges
n several weekends each year, Shropshire can be seen making the rounds at a build, hugging volunteers to show appreciation, thanking the residents for allowing the workers into their homes, greeting the media and giving tours to civic officials who visit the site. What keeps her involved? The people — both the ones who volunteer and the ones being helped. "The nicest people get involved in this organization," she notes with pride. "If you're cleaning sewage from someone's basement because a sewer pipe broke and you come back — you're a nice person. "The egos don't fit through the door," she adds. Sometimes, there is no door. Rebuilding Together Philadelphia differs from Habitat for Humanity in that it doesn't build houses from scratch. It fixes up old houses that have fallen into disrepair, mostly in inner city areas like West Philly and Germantown. The homes are usually more than 70 years old, and many of the residents are older adults, families or veterans. "If you have an old house and you have money,
Todd Vachon
it's historic," Shropshire says. "If you have an old house and no money, it's just old." Old homes need work, and work costs money, which many residents don't have. So they apply for RTP help. Volunteers come and look at a house from the basement up — every inch of the house — to determine the most critical repairs. "Warm, safe, dry — that's the mantra for our organization," Shropshire says. "We make the homeowner secure in every sense of the word." So if a roof is leaking, they repair it. If heating and cooling dollars are escaping through gaps in the home, RTP provides weather stripping. If the door doesn't latch, they will fix that. "If you have no money and want to stay warm in Philly, maybe you pay your power bill and don't eat," she says, echoing the reality many of the group's homeowners face. Plumbing, carpentry, electrical work — all are part of the services RTP will do for homeowners in need. For older adults, trying to age in place, or those with physical disabilities, like veterans, RTP will make home modifications — anything from a grab bar to a chair lift — often in consultation with an occupational therapist. They will install smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, and safely remove lead paint. Volunteers typically work on a home for three or four weekends, spending an average of $3,500 on materials. But the value of the work is $15,000 or more because of the volunteer labor used. Many times, businesses like Cricket Communications or Popular Mechanics magazine will sponsor a build, and provide materials and workers to get the job done. The work lifts up whole neighborhoods, and not just when a block build refurbishes a number of homes in the area. It can change the culture of an area. One of Shropshire's brainstorms is the "Palooza!" This celebration helps the neighbors become familiar with the work being done. Games, arts and crafts keep
Inspired by Jennifer Shropshire '86? You can get involved too — wherever you live! n Volunteer with Oswego Alumni Association: Share your expertise with students via Alumni-in Residence Be a mentor with Alumni Sharing Knowledge Join a Reunion planning or giving committee n Help others in your community: Donate clothing and books Volunteer in the schools Get active in your church n Find an opportunity close to home at sites like: serve.gov volunteermatch.org volunteer.gov/gov/ And, to join Jenn in her favorite cause: rebuildingtogether.org/
the children busy, while their parents tour the completed houses and learn about the organization. Many times, they will leave with an application to have their home repaired or to serve as a volunteer.
An open door
irroring her work with RTP is Shropshire's involvement with the Oswego Alumni Association. It's part of a thread running through her adult life. "I have the joy of working with wonderful causes every day," she says of her career. "I get paid to do what other people pay to do." But two organizations claim her volunteer time. "Both have great meaning for me; both were very instrumental in shaping who I am as a person," Shropshire says. "Oswego did that for me as an undergrad. I feel so fortunate to have gone to Oswego," she says. "I could not have chosen a better college for myself, and to make that choice when you're 17 or 18 — I lucked out." In addition to serving as past president of the OAA and leading longrange planning efforts on the board,
Shropshire attends Reunion Weekend frequently. "Reunions give you a chance to check in and say, 'OK, did I make the right choice?' Every time affirms if I had to do it again, I made the right choice. I would do it again." Leading the Program Policy Board as a student — where undergrads handled huge budgets to bring concerts and speakers to campus — and classes with professors like former Business School Dean Lanny Karns helped form the person she is today, Shropshire says. "What I did within class and outside of class was a complete gift to me," she says. "To shape myself as a person and a leader." Rebuilding Together Philadelphia likewise gave her a leadership opportunity that has shaped her personally and professionally. "One of the things I love about both of these organizations is that they give me an open door," she says, on her way to the June 5 rebuild. "If I got stuck, anywhere, and needed a place to stay, I'd just have to hook into the network and some 'stranger' would put me up and give me their last pork chop," she says as she dons a bright blue Rebuilding Together Philadelphia T-shirt and heads out into a sweltering early summer day and another renovation project. l
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chuck wainwright
A Gift for Gags
alk down the stairs into the cozy basement studio of Dan Reynolds '81, and I guarantee you will have an involuntary and uncontrollable urge to laugh. You can fight it, but a smile will appear, then a small chuckle, soon a giggle and eventually full-blown guffaws will emanate from your belly. Because, except for a Boston Red Sox banner or two, his Oswego diploma and mementoes of Reynolds' days aboard the USS Nimitz, wherever you look, every inch of wall space is covered with cartoons. Cows, pigs, chickens and snowmen doing the most outrageous things. The familiar figure from Edvard Munch's "The Scream" opens his mouth in wordless horror as he gazes at his weight on a scale. A little farther down the wall a hunter leads a group of deer in calisthenics with the caption "Mike Thins Out the Herd." A barnyard gang playing poker hold their noses as a bovine raises the bet with — what else — cow chips. Reynolds isn't offended by your outburst. He's used to this. The most published cartoonist in Reader's Digest history — his "Reynolds Unwrapped" cartoons appear in nearly every issue — he'll wait until your sides stop heaving
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Prolific Reynolds Unwraps Laughter By Michele Reed
and the tears in your eyes start to dry. And then he'll pull out a handful of greeting cards with his gags on them, and off you go again in paroxysms of laughter. As a regular contributor to American Greetings cards, Reynolds' work can be found in major retailers around the country. Birthday, get well,
friendship, Boss's Day: You name it, Reynolds' fertile imagination has found a way to poke gentle fun at it. "Everybody needs to laugh," he says modestly, shrugging his broad shoulders and rubbing his shaved head. "This is my way of contributing to that." He may be modest about his craft, but his output is anything but. This prolific artist works eight to 12 hour days, creating an average of four cartoons a day, every day. "I don't have Saturday and Sunday off. I draw every day. I shower every day, too," he says. He's on target to produce upwards of 580 cartoons this year. Over his career of 20 years, he has drawn thousands. But, you can't help asking, despite the question's cliché status: How do you get so many ideas? "That's the most often asked and hardest to answer question," Reynolds says. "I don't know. It's sort of a mystery." The Oswego psychology major speculates half-jokingly that it might have to do with some sort of brain dysfunction or an enlarged right lobe, but he has a favorite theory. "It might be a big part of exercising my mind to see things at least twice," he says. "Most people look at things and continued on p. 34
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Continued from p. 32 that's that. I look at things and try to see them in a different way." Doing that over years, day after day, develops the brain like any muscle elsewhere on the body, Reynolds theorizes. Like dreamers who only remember their dreams for a few moments after awakening, Reynolds has to jot down his cartoon ideas before they escape in the hubbub of everyday life. He used to rely on Post-it notes, but now his laptop captures about five to 10 ideas a day. Around the house or at a baseball game, he always has a sketchbook with him, ready to rough out a gag. He believes cartoon ideas come from his subconscious. "Our minds operate and we learn things, always have learned things, by making connections to what we already know," he says. "I try to train myself to find the absurdity in connections — things that on the outside are not related, but I relate them and make that connection." You're driving down the road and see a sign reading "Stop Ahead." Reyn-
olds sees a screaming head popping up from the pavement, and the cars must come to a screeching halt to avoid hitting it: Stop. A head. "Things you see a million times, if you've never thought of that — when somebody like me brings that to your attention, you have an 'aha' experience and you think, 'Now why didn't I see that before?'" Reynolds says. "I look at myself as somebody who tries to bring to people's attention things they could've seen but didn't."
Laughter as medicine
f seeing things in a different way can make people laugh, laughter itself can make people see things in a different way, Reynolds learned. He uses it to help cancer patients defeat their illness. Reynolds was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2008 and underwent
a particularly rough regimen of chemotherapy: six hours a day, five days a week for three months through a port installed in his chest. He had a week off between each round of treatment, usually spent lying on his side in the fetal position; the effects of the chemo were so intense. "It was like drinking a nuclear shake," he says. "It's basically poison." Reynolds coped by sharing his cartoons, calling it "using humor to fight the tumor." While hooked up to an IV pumping chemo into him, he would wheel down the hall handing out greeting cards with his gags to other patients, even doctors and nurses. "We had cancer in common, no one knew for 100 percent sure what would happen. Through the use of humor I was able to bring smiles to their faces," he says. "It helped me as much as it helped them." Now in remission for nearly a year, Reynolds hasn't forgotten his fellow cancer patients. He shows slides of his hospital-related cartoons at American Cancer Society events to raise money for the cause, and donates his work to the chuck wainwright
Summer 2010
society's e-cards reminding people to get check-ups. If reading Reynolds' cartoons can bring laughter, watching him work is also smile-inducing. Here is a man in love with his craft. As a cartoonist, not an illustrator, he has to start with an idea or joke, he explains. First he sketches his idea on Bristol paper, usually greeting card size, 5 by 7 inches, with a Ticonderoga No. 2 pencil sharpened to perfection. (He even has a cartoon where the pencil is lying on a psychiatrist's couch. Punch line: "I don't understand why I am always just No. 2.") He begins to draw that day's cartoon: A bunch of pigeons are sitting on a window ledge facing the street. One pigeon faces the other way, teetering on one leg into a window of the "Suicide Hotline Office." Voices from the building scream, "Everybody move, he's going to jump!" When he gets the sketch just the way he likes it, he inks in the main lines, erasing any stray marks. Then he colors the sketch with artist's markers, which sit on his drafting table in the corner of the basement in the holes of a brick, decorated by one of his sons. The final step is what sets Reynolds' cartoons apart and gives them their painterly look. He adds detail with colored pencils, and shading and atmosphere with pastels blended with a cotton diaper. Most people think his technique is created with watercolors, like Gary Larson of "The Far Side" fame. But Reynolds' approach is unique. It's a look he's developed over the years, since he published his first cartoon, in the Oswegonian, back in 1990. He never took a course in drawing. As youth activities coordinator with the Oswego City-County Youth Bureau, he wrote a column on parenting for the Oswego Palladium-Times and the Valley News. Over time, his columns became more humorous. Then he tried his hand at cartooning and fell in love. "I have the cartoon addiction," he quips.
Dan Reynolds '81 Fast Facts Wife: Patricia Mahardy Reynolds '88 Sons: Gregory '11, Ronnie, Johnnie, Jimmy Books: The Toilet Zone Birthday Bash! Christmas Meltdown Now They All Have Window Seats How Aging Affects Belt Height Subscribe to Dan's daily cartoons at: reynoldsunwrapped.com
After that he worked at his Youth Bureau job all day, and then came home to work far into the night, drawing cartoons and submitting them to greeting card companies. "For years, I subsisted on about four hours of sleep a night," Reynolds admits. The hard work eventually paid off, enough to quit the day job and devote himself to his art. In addition to his
greeting cards and Reader's Digest gigs, he has four nationally published books, three of them with Andrews McNeil Publishing, the largest humor press out there and the same company that published all "The Far Side" and "Calvin and Hobbes" books, and most other major cartoons. He doesn't actively pursue magazine placements, but has had a few cartoons in Esquire and Saturday Evening Post. He's now in negotiations to put out a "Reynolds Unwrapped" calendar. As a psychology major, Reynolds takes pleasure in the use of his cartoons as part of a Science Channel experiment, which showed that if you smile a lot, you tend to be happier, seeing things in a more positive light. Reynolds often gets wrapped up in his work but it also makes him one of the happiest folks out there. With his sharp pencil and wit, he can pass the happiness along to you, too. l
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1931 80th 1946 65th
Class Notes
1951 60th
1 9 4 0 1941 70th 1941 70th 70th 1941
1946 65th 1946 65th 65th 1946
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Vic '53 and Jeanne Wool1956 55th way Ferrante '53 celebrated their 55th wedding in June 1936anniversary 75th 2009. Both1936 taught JUNE 10-12 1936 75th in the Burnt 75th Hills-Ballston Lake School District JUNE 10-12 for more than 30 years. They still JUNE 10-12 10-12 Irwin "Brud" Coombs '58 and JUNE reside in that area, near their two his wife, Wynnie, currently reside in children. Their grandchildren also Pawling. They have three children, 1961 50th 1931 80th attend BHBL schools. Vic and nine grandchildren and five great1931 80th 1931 80th Jeanne write that they hope some grandchildren. Brud retired in 1992 JUNE 10-12 JUNE 10-12 of their grandchildren one day will after 32 years of teaching at PawlJUNE 10-12 JUNE 10-12 go to Oswego. ing Central School. While there he Sanford Sternlicht '53 retired coached varsity baseball and varsity from teaching for a second time football. He also was employed at 1971 40th in May. The author and New York Purdy High School, where he taught Council for the Humanities speaker industrial arts and drafting for two JUNE 10-12 was awarded professor emeritus years and coached junior varsity status by the Syracuse University basketball. He writes that he "would English Department. like to know where other Korean
Call us at: 315-312-2258 E-mail us at: firstname.lastname@example.com Fax us at: 315-312-5570 Visit our Web site at: oswego.edu/alumni
vets Robert Norton '58, Joe Savino, Joe Butera '58, Richard Raaflaub '58 and Frank Maraviglia '58 are."
1 9 6 0
Diane Damon Geloff '60 retired from teaching at North Syracuse Central School 1966District 45th in June 1994. She was an elementary school teacher. She is the mother of Michele JUNE 10-12 Geloff Morrison '84 and writes that two of her nieces and two nephews also attended Oswego. Diane, a Kappa Delta Pi sister while at Oswego, '80, '81, '82 remembers traveling to the national 30th Reunion KDP convention in Chicago. The former women's chorus member still enjoys singing, as well as golfing, JUNE 10-12 bridge, traveling and musicals.
'Academic Entrepreneur' Casts Global Net
1956 55th 1956 55th 55th 1956
15 former members of Delta Chi Omega/ Theta Kappa Epsilon returned for Reunion Weekend in June. 20th Recently retired from the Ohio State 1966 45th University, the professor and author of 10 1966 45th 45th 1966 books spoke on campus this spring about JUNE 10-12 globalization. It's a topic he knows well, JUNE 10-12 10-12 JUNE having started several global ventures of his own, from training Chinese executives 2001 10th to do business in the United States, to his 1971 40th '80,current '81, '82undertaking — booking musical 1971 40th 40th 30th Reunion 1971 '80, '81, '82 KISS, Paul McCartney and Lady '80,acts '81, '82 like JUNE 10-12 30th Reunion 30th Reunion Gaga for performances at the Bird's Nest, JUNE 10-12 10-12 JUNE JUNE 10-12 Beijing's Olympic venue. JUNE 10-12 10-12 His global reach began at Oswego. JUNE A native of the city, he grew up with the 30th campus as his playground, since his father, 30th 30th 1986named 25th Joe, was a maintenance forealso JUNE 10-12 1986 25th 1986on25th man campus. JUNE 10-12 10-12 JUNE 10-12 As a student, JoeJUNE found an intellectual JUNE 10-12 JUNE 10-12 playground at Oswego. His lively mind '05,leaped '06, '07from subject to subject, a psychol20th 5th Reunion ogy '05, '06,major '07 tasting philosophy, art, poetry, '05, '06, '07 20th 20th 5thbefore Reunion going on to graduate study in 5th Reunion JUNE 10-12 Dr. Joseph Pilotta '69 speaks about sociology and communications JUNE 10-12 at Ohio JUNE 10-12Justice" as part "Gender, Racism andJUNE Social 10-12 of Toronto. JUNE 10-12 10-12 of this spring's Ernst & Young Lecture Series, University and University JUNE funded by Robert Feinberg '78. Joe's global interests began with an
Ohio public broadcasting project interviewing campus and community minority groups and visiting dignitaries '05, '06,from '07 17 different countries. 5th Reunion That led to his involvement with Sino/ JUNE 10-12 Ohio, a venture that eventually trained more than 800 Chinese business people in American culture, and another opportunity developing business in China for American companies. He has been a consultant for the Chinese government, World Bank and JUNE 10-12 Mitsubishi International. During the last decade, Joe's BIGresearch surveyed the shopping habits of 8,000 consumers per month, helping Fortune 500 companies with media buying decisions. Although he has formally retired from academe, Joe is anything but idle. In addition to his Chinese concert-booking venture, he is writing three books and maintaining a busy lecturing schedule. "My foundations are here," he said on a recent visit to campus. "Oswego allowed me to germinate my interests. It gave me a whole set of sensibilities that allowed me to maneuver and find my own way." l — Michele Reed
JUNE 10-12 to writing From booking concerts JUNE 10-12 10-12 JUNE books, Dr. Joseph Pilotta '69 is constantly creating things. "I like to create new things, try new things, and get them to be 1961 50th sustainable," says the self-titled academic 1961 50th 1961 50th entrepreneur. JUNE 10-12 Creating new organizations is someJUNE 10-12 10-12 JUNE thing he experienced at Oswego, forming Delta Chi Omega with a group of friends that included Bob Brown '69. More than
Jim Russell '83
2001 10th 2001 10th 10th 2001 Oswego
JUNE 10-12 Summer 2010 JUNE 10-12 10-12 JUNE
1986 25th JUNE 10-12
1951 60th JUNE 10-12
Barbara Minsky Herzog and JUNE'60 10-12 her husband, Michael, recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. The couple resides in Cedarhurst. 1956 55th Barbara writes that she and Barbara 1946 65th Reisler Woodworth '60, Judie Poons JUNE 10-12 Cohn '60 and Judy Himmelstein JUNE 10-12 Rozner '60 have "maintained a close friendship throughout the years. I thank Oswego State Teachers College 1961 50th (yes, that's what it was called then) for 1951 the gift of60th this relationship." JUNE 10-12Harrison '60 Carol Moehler JUNE 10-12 and Ronald C. Harrison '62 met in Oswego in 1958. They married shortly after her graduation in 1971 40th June of 1960. Their first daughter was 1956 born55th while Ronald was student teaching in 1962. They write, "This JUNE 10-12 50th reunion means moreJUNE to us; it is 10-12 our 50th wedding anniversary." The couple lives in Ocala, Fla.
30th 1961 50th JUNE 10-12 JUNE 10-12
mencement ceremony May 15. JUNE As 10-12 vice president for the Commonwealth Campuses at Penn State, John is responsible for the academic and admin1931 80th istrative leadership for 19 undergraduate campuses across Pennsylvania. He JUNE 10-12 The saying typically predicts that "opposites attract." previously served as vice provost and This was not the case when two industrial arts students dean in the Penn State system. crossed paths 38 years ago. Bruce King '72 and Stephen Gent '72 met when 1966 45th they rented an apartment with two mutual friends. They discovered they had a passion for many of the same things. JUNE 10-12 They both have "strong common interests in education and industry," Steve said. Daniel Conway '66 owns a manWorking on cars was a popular hobby among the friends ufacturing company in Los Angeles. and their roommates. "We didn't have any money," Bruce He '80,was '81, excited '82 to fly to Binghamton recalled with a chuckle, "and we would usually entertain in May to see his nephew receive his 30th Reunion ourselves at home, driving around or working on cars." Ph.D. in engineering. "As I approach Their college days ended in January 1972 when Bruce my retirement years, how fortunate JUNE 10-12 graduated, but the friendship did not. am I?" Daniel asks. Bruce became a teacher for woodshop, math and Dr. Perry Zirkel '66 recently received the Deming Lewis Award. It business before tapping into his hands-on skills and creating is awarded to the faculty member at custom cabinets and furniture. He took a break from teaching 45th 1986 25th 1966 Lehigh University who has most inand moved to California in 1984, but soon came back to fluenced the educational experience New York. of the members of a reunion class. JUNE 10-12 Steve also started his career teaching high school and JUNE 10-12 Perry was selected for this honor by vocational school. He went to work in the engineering serthe class of 1999 during their reunion '05, '06, '07 vices department at SUNY Fredonia in his hometown and this past October. He continues to 5th Reunion also spent 15 years as a project engineer for Aramco in Saudi research practical studies '80, '81, '82 of general Arabia. and special education law and current 30th Reunion To this day, Steve and Bruce visit each other for a short JUNE 10-12 labor arbitration issues. Perry recently vacation of rebuilding an old machine or two each year. Their co-authored his 1,200th publication, Student Teaching and the Law, a book JUNE 10-12 friendship has spanned four decades under a simple philosopublished by Rowman and Littlefield. phy, according to Bruce. "In order to stay friends with people, you have to have a 1 9 7 0 s common interest and make time to send a letter or make a 1986 25thCarmody John '70 and Nancy phone call," he said. l Bergmann '70 have four children — Stefanie J. Beekman '10 and nine grandchildren. They are JUNE 10-12 both retired and reside in Averill Park. John was the principal at Troy '05, '06, '07 High School5th and Nancy was an eleReunion mentary school teacher in the Berlin School District. While at Oswego, John was a member of the Oswego JUNE 10-12 Varsity hockey team. Nancy was an Arethusa sister and a member of Greek Council. They now enjoy volunteering at Health Park Hospital, traveling with their grandchildren, boating and fishing. James McCarthy '70 was recently sworn in as a New York State Supreme Court justice. He has held positions as Oswego City Court Judge, Oswego County Court Judge Steve Gent '72, left, and Bruce King '72 pose next to a Rockwell and part-time acting justice of the Milling machine they rebuilt in February. The two friends and IA state Supreme Court among othgrads try to get together and tinker once a year. ers. His term ends in 2024. He is a father of four and enjoys karate and traveling.
Education, Industry Give Two Grads History
Patricia Mills-Brandes '61 and her husband are retired and have moved western Pennsylvania. 1971to 40th 10-12time traveling The couple JUNE spends with their grandchildren. Her son JUNE 10-12 is Jeffery Brandes '84. Jean Haug Ihlenburg Turner '63 writes, "It has been a while since 2001 10th 1963 graduation at Oswego. We have 30th all changed and JUNEmade 10-12 changes in the world and hopefully for the better. JUNE 10-12 My love for children and teaching has always been a passion along with my wonderful champion German shepherd dogs. It has been a very 20th life and fulfilling. I credit rewarding Oswego for preparing me for the JUNE great life that I have shared in10-12 classrooms, day cares and dog shows." Carol Blaine Goetschius '65 and Tom Goetschius '67 celebrated their 45th2001 wedding 10th anniversary in March. They first met when they were participants in "The Would-Be GentleJUNE 10-12 men." Tom was the director of theatre at SUNY Morrisville until he left teaching in 1985. Carol still teaches at Celebration School in Celebration, Fla. Tom is currently a consultant in the resort development industry. The couple resides in Orlando, but write that "theater and Oswego are both still very dear in our hearts." John J. Romano '65 was keynote speaker at Penn State Berks com-
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United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon recently appointed His 1951 60th Excellency Heraldo Muñoz '72 assistant secretary-general and assistant adminisJUNE 10-12 trator and director of the regional bureau for Latin America and the Caribbean of the U.N. Development Program. The Chilean ambassador to the 1956 55th U.N. from 2003 to 2010, Muñoz has also chaired the U.N.'s Peacebuilding Heraldo Muñoz '72 JUNE 10-12 Commission. He has served in many other posts during his career in the organization, including facilitator of the Security Council reform consultations, vice president of the General Assembly's 61st 1961 50th 1966 45th session and president of the Security Council. JUNE 10-12
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You might find Richard '79 and Becky Wiberg Carlson JUNE 10-12 '79 riding horses in East Bay Regional Park District on any given weekend. 1986thought, 25th you On second might not. East Bay includes more JUNE 10-12 than 100,000 acres of wilderness'05, in the '06, Bay '07 Area of 5th Reunion California. Richard and Becky, part of the Volunteer Trail Safety Patrol, could be in a JUNE 10-12 remote corner of the reserve. "We go places park rangers don't get around to," says Becky, who keeps a lookout for sick or injured animals and people as well as trail damage during her 200 or so hours of service each year. Becky Wiberg Carlson '79 and her husband, Richard '79, mount up "I was a horse-crazy kid, for search and rescue as volunteers in the East Bay Regional Park but I never got to be around Volunteer Trail Safety Patrol. them," the full-time customer A nearby stable offered $1 rides contract analyst, have been service supervisor says. She volunteering for more than and her horse hobby began. was carless at Oswego and two decades. "My husband decided that never made it to nearby sta"It's an opportunity to he better start taking riding bles as a student. give back," says Becky, who lessons or else he would never The real opportunity to see his wife again," Becky says with Richard also serves in the ride came in Millington, Tenn., search and rescue group. l with a laugh. where Becky was stationed She and Richard, a sub— Shane M. Liebler while serving in the U.S. Navy.
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Warren Greene '75 recently retired from the Fulton County Probation Department after 33 30th years. He and his wife, Jeanne, reside in Gloversville and have two JUNE enjoys 10-12 children. Warren currently photography. Jennifer Cecilia Boulanger '76 has been promoted to dean of the 20thfor Language and Learning Center Design at Mohawk Valley Community College. JenniferJUNE was10-12 most recently the assistant dean for recruitment and outreach at the college. She has been employed in administrative 2001 10th offices at New York state community colleges for 13 years. JUNE 10-12 Lawrence Hart '76 is the marketing manager of the Utica National Insurance Group's Middle Atlantic Regional Office in Richmond, Va. He has worked for Utica National in many marketing positions since 1982. He most recently held the position of senior regional marketing representative in the Southwestern Regional Office based in Texas. He currently resides in Richmond. Patrick Nulty '76 is a teacher of exceptional children at Eastlawn Elementary School. He earned the Eastlawn Teacher of the Year Award for the 2005–06 school year. Patrick l
lege, Pa., office at Barton Associates Inc., a consulting engineering firm that provides services such as plumbing and fire protection. Joseph has almost 30 years of design experience. Dennis Shuler '78 joined Kellogg in February as senior vice president of global human resources. Dennis will report directly to President and CEO David MacKay and join the company's Global Leadership Team. He has previously been employed by Proctor & Gamble and Walt Disney Co. Timothy J. Moore '79 of Fayetteville is the director of personal line sales and marketing at Utica National Insurance Group. He has more than two decades of experience in the insurance industry and will provide assistance to Utica National's regional offices.
'80, '81, '82 Rescue Riders Keep Wilderness Watch 30th Reunion JUNE 10-12
played football at Oswego, and was inducted into the semi-pro Hall of Fame in 2005. He currently resides in North Carolina and enjoys visiting his daughter in California. Steve Chirello '77 was keynote speaker for the Journalism Convocation April 30 at SUNY Morrisville. Steve owns Chirello Advertising in Fulton. George Vianco '77 retired from Xerox Corp. in January 2010 after 30 years of employment. His wife, Patti, has been promoted to office staff manager at SWBR Architects, in Rochester. His son Nick graduated from the University of Rochester in 2006 and is employed at Strong Hospital. His daughter Holly graduated from SUNY Buffalo this spring. JUNE 10-12 Joseph Pawell '78 is the senior electrical designer in the State Col-
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West River Tennis & Fitness Center in Southern Vermont since 1998. He played tennis at Oswego and was ranked second in the United State Tennis New England 1966Association's 45th region in 45-and-over singles in 2009. Bob and his wife, Enizete,JUNE currently 10-12 live in Litchfield, Conn., with their two daughters. Robert Horan '85 was unanimously approved by the school '80, '81,to'82become the next district board 30th Reunion superintendent of Schodack Central School District. He started July 1. He was the principal of MapleJUNE Hill10-12 High School for four years and has been in education for 24 years. He currently
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The U.S. Small Business
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Barbuto Penizotto '92 New 10-12 York state'sJUNE Small Business JUNE 10-12 Person of the Year in May. Penizotto owns Shining Stars Daycare, which she 1971 40th started in 1994. An elementary education major, the JUNE 10-12 star entrepreneur says she never took a business class at Oswego. That hasn't dimmed Stella Barbuto Penizotto '92 her success. met President Barack Obama30th at With three locations in the White House, when she the Syracuse metro area, was honored as New York JUNE 10-12 Shining Stars serves more state's Small Business Person of the Year. than 360 children and employs 78 workers. Shining Stars was inducted into the New York State Small 20th Business Hall of Fame in 2007 and was named Onondaga County Entrepreneur of the Year in 2001. 1966 45th JUNE 10-12
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lives in Niskayuna with his wife, Margie, and their three children. Heidi Salvagin Rothfuss '86 teaches science courses at North Rose-Wolcott High School. Barbara Kavovit '87 recently created Barbara's Way, a homeimprovement company selling tools for women, including pink gardening gloves. Susan Fowler Welch '88 currently lives in Maui, Hawaii. She writes she hopes to see or hear from Oswego alumni if they are traveling to the islands. Darren T. Mullahey '89 is the president of Proforma Brand Flare, a marketing and advertising company. He was recently recognized by the Cambridge Who's Who for demonstrating dedication, leadership and excellence in business management.
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J. Paul Sciortino '80 was awarded the Amylin Pharmaceuticals 1986 Sales 25th Award for 2009 and Highest promoted to principal senior territoJUNE 10-12Vt., ry manager. He lives in Jefferson, where his daughter, Kendra, recently graduated high school. He writes, '05, '06, '07 "A Reunion big hello to fellow DK brothers, 5th soccer players and other friends from Camp Oswego." 10-12 Bonnie L. Booden'81JUNE expanded her family law firm in Phoenix to include mediation services. Bonnie has been an attorney in Arizona for 18 years. James Corgan '81 is a camera operator on "The Today Show." He usually films fellow alumnus Al Roker '76. James currently resides on Long Island. John Dittmeier '81 is the general manager for WTWC-TV, an NBC affiliate in Tallahassee, Fla. John, who has more than 20 years of broadcasting experience was previously
field-Holyoke, Mass. Michael Edward Mulligan '81 JUNE 10-12 leads the prosecution in the trial of the suspect in the November 2009 Fort Hood shootings. The Army Colonel has been an attorney since 1988. Daniel W. Riordan '81 was recently named the president of the North America Commercial Specialties business unit at Zurich North American Commercial. Edward Zecchini '82 joined the information technology firm Sandata as executive vice president and chief technology officer. He previously served as chief information officer at HealthMarkets and Thomson Healthcare. At Sandata, Edward will be responsible for developing and implementing the strategy for information technology and software product offerings. Roxanne B. Moses '83 was a sportswriter at the Harrisburg (Pa.) Patriot-News until the end of 2009. She writes that she moved to Charleston, S.C., to be closer to family and begin her next great adventure. Bob Cofer '84 recently purchased Pinewoods Health and Racquet Club in Torrington, Conn. He has owned
ASK what you can do for Oswego students. Join the Alumni Sharing Knowledge program and become a mentor to SUNY Oswego students. Share your experiences and provide students with: n Direct and relevant experience in a specific area of work n Advice and suggestions that can help a student be successful n Relocation information and advice n Résumé critiques and job search advice n Confidence and self-esteem to prepare them for life after
graduation The number of Oswego students looking for mentors is on the rise. Become an ASK mentor through OsweGoConnect, Oswego's online community. It's quick. It's easy. It's online. It's a great way to give back. To become a mentor, visit oswego.edu/alumni/ask and follow the instructions.
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Oswego put Amy Kishpaugh '05 on the fast track. The recent recipient of the CNY Sales & Marketing Executives' Excellence Award said she was able to get involved with WTOP-TV and the National Broadcasting Society essentially from the moment she arrived. "Oswego was a wonderful experience for me," says Amy, who also interned with New York news channel NY1. "It really laid the foundation; it was a great stepping stone." She was inspired to get into sales by a student project. Five years later, Amy is recognized as one of Syracuse's best in the field. "It's humbling," she said. l 1) You've clocked five years as a pro. Forecast for the next five? I have some personal revenue goals I plan on hitting, plus I am going to get my MBA. 2) Pick five favorite things about Central New York: The area lakes, Dinosaur BBQ, the summer weather, SU basketball games and the fact that there are kickball leagues.
Amy Kishpaugh '05 speaks in a broadcasting class. She has returned to campus to help judge the course's final projects in each of the last five years.
3) Alright, Spanish minor, say something cool in Spanish: Yo quiero Taco Bell. 4) Translation? That phrase demonstrates the power of advertising. It needs no translation. 5) You grew up in Southern California. How did you survive the Oswego winters? Luckily, I was able to travel home every winter break. 6) Toughest WTOP story: Naturally, our executive board didn't always agree. It was tough being friends, but also trying to run the station. 7) Easiest decision: Going into a career in television after graduation.
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8) Saddest song you've ever heard: I only listen to upbeat music. I find that it influences my attitude and helps me succeed at my job. 9) Funniest residence hall shenanigans: If I told you, I'd have to kill you. 10) Yummiest item in an Oswego dining hall: Hands down, the Snickers ice cream. Students used to fight to get them!
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Jim '90 and Lisa Ritchie Naze '90 reside in Leominster, Mass. The couple met at Oswego. Jim writes, "Our times together on [the] lakeside and at Oswego in general are some of the happiest memories of my life." Thomas Squires '90 is the Cayuga County administrator and will oversee daily operations in the county. He previously served as deputy comptroller in Onondaga County for 13 years. He resides in Lysander with his wife and two children. Ron Vogt '91 recently founded USAGreenJobsNow, a job board and placement firm in the sustainable energy field. Ron has been a strategic recruiting professional for more than 13 years with several Fortune 500 companies and the NASA shuttle program.
Kirk Balcom '92 works as director of human resources for Aimco, a real estate investment trust. Andrea Haenlin-Mott '92 was recently confirmed by the New York state Senate for an additional term on the Advisory Council to the Commission on Quality of Care and Advocacy for Persons with Disabilities. Andrea serves as Americans with Disabilities Act coordinator for facilities at Cornell University in Ithaca. She resides in Cortland. Her term on the advisory council ends Feb. 4, 2011. Sgt. David Mancuso '92 was promoted to the Greece Police Department leadership team. David has been an officer in the department since 2003. Stephen"Scoop"Rupprecht'92 and his wife, Sharon, welcomed a girl, Molly Isabel, Feb. 16. Stephen writes, "My wife was due with our
By Executive Director Betsy Oberst
he support of a global network of more than 74,000 Oswego alumni helps to enhance the experience of our current students from the day they arrive on campus until they become newly minted graduates launching their careers. The Oswego Alumni Association sponsors programs to help prepare students for success following graduation. Some of these include student programs through our Future Alumni Network (FANs) that promote spirit and pride, career awareness programs such as Backpack to Briefcase and New York City Career Connections, Senior Class programming, including the Senior Class Gift and more. Following graduation, our GOLD (Graduates Of the Last Decade) programs, regional events and the Alumni Sharing Knowledge (ASK) Program all continue to help recent graduates stay connected to their alma mater and to find success in their professions and local communities. Our ASK mentoring program offers alumni the opportunity to assist students and recent graduates in numerous ways — from coming back to campus to speak in classes to offering daylong job-shadowing and internship opportunities, critiquing résumés and offering career, interview, relocation and job search advice. Connecting with current students is one of the most valuable ways you can support your alma mater. You can help to foster a mutually beneficial and satisfying alumni/student connection, while demonstrating your pride and commitment to SUNY Oswego at the same time. If you are interested in joining the ASK Network, please visit oswego.edu/alumni/ask As we prepare for our yearlong Sesquicentennial celebration of Oswego's rich 150-year history, I also invite you to participate in some of the many events planned beginning in May 2011. Look for information soon on our Sesquicentennial Reunion Celebration scheduled for June 10 to 12, 2011, Founder's Day events in October 2011 and a culminating celebration activity in April 2012. Many of our events will celebrate our founder Edward Austin Sheldon's commitment to engagement and service that continues today through the Oswego Alumni Association's programs that serve to engage and connect our alumni with the college and in helping our current students. We look forward to hearing from you!
Welcome to the City GOLD Parties slated Albany Sept. 25 Networking Social and guided beer tasting at Albany Pump Station Buffalo Sept. 30 Networking Social at Pearl Street Grill & Brewery Charlotte Oct. 7 Networking Social with SUNYCLUB at Dilworth Neighborhood Grille Los Angeles Oct. 2 Networking Social at Hollywood Billiards New York City Sept. 16 Networking Social at Beer Garden at Studio Square Rochester and Syracuse Oct. 23 Joint wine tour on Seneca Lake Washington, D.C. Sept. 7 Tailgate and Nationals game at The Bullpen and Nationals Park For more information and to register, visit oswego.edu/gold.
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Secret Proposal Was Crafted for Martha Stewart Show
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JUNE 10-12 It's kind of hard to say 'yes' when you're speechless. Even trickier is pulling off a proposal on national television. 1946 65th Benjamin Sloane '05 had the unlikely aid of Martha Stewart JUNE 10-12 in asking for the hand of Crystal Hanehan '04, who was making an appearance on the domestic diva's daily television show in March. 1951 60th Sloane shocked Hanehan when he emerged from the studio audience JUNE 10-12 to pop the question at the end of a segment. He developed the plot during the weeks leading up to the show. Sloane 1956 55th Benjamin Sloane '05 and Crystal Hanehan '04 pose with found the producer's contact info in Martha Stewart after a unique on-air proposal. Hanehan's unattended e-mail inbox JUNE 10-12 and set up the setup. The actual idea of proposing was no surprise. "We knew not long after we met that we wanted to get married," said Hanehan, who met Sloane through mutual friends while attending Oswego. The pair moved to 1961 the Boston 50th area shortly after graduating. Many friends and family members were able to see such a prominently featured proposal.JUNE 10-12 "It was just really nice and heartwarming to have everyone congratulating us, we really didn't even have to put the announcement in the paper," said Hanehan, who was demonstrating how to make Easter bunnies from spun cotton on the show. The Oswego graphic design major makes and sells similar items through Vintage by Crystal on the Web. 1971 40th Sloane is currently earning a master's degree in social work at Simmons College. JUNE 10-12 The couple plans to wed in August 2011. l — Shane M. Liebler nick D/"The Martha Stewart Show"
second child on March 24, 2010, when the stork decided, during a snow storm, to deliver our new baby girl Molly 36 days early!" Michael G. Lisson '94 was recently promoted from CPA to partner at Green & Seifter, Certified Public Accountants in Syracuse. Michael joined the firm's audit practice in October with 15 years experience as a CPA. He serves as a member of the School of Business Advisory Board at Oswego and the board of Syracuse nonprofit Hope for the Bereaved. Gina Proia '94 was named vice president and chief communications officer of GMAC Financial Services in June 2009. Gina joined GMAC in 2006 and most recently served as executive director of media relations and financial communications. Ted Kawryga CAS '95 retired as superintendent of Dolgeville Central School District this June. Ted, who earned a bachelor's degree from SUNY Brockport in 1973, had been with the district since 2005. Ben Chernoff '96 recently joined the staff at New England Financial in East Syracuse. Kristen L. Duggleby '96 was named assistant director for leadership annual giving at Syracuse University. Kristen previously served for 10 years as campaign director at the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. She resides in Fayetteville with her husband and 6-year-old twins. Joseph Treffiletti '96 writes, "I recently sold a payroll business that I had built and owned for three years, and moved to Florida, where my wife can work at her job much more easily. I'd love to say 'hi' to everyone from Scales Hall 1993 to 1996 and Jill Rasmussen and Tony Henderson, who were great hall directors." Brian Hughes '97 recently joined the FBI as a special agent and works out of the Newark, N.J., office. Before entering the FBI Academy in 2009, Brian was a corporate security manager at Chevy Chase Bank. Brian Schlosser '97 writes, "In 2000 I graduated summa cum laude from Touro Law School, where I served as the managing editor of the Law Review. I began my legal career as an associate of the law
Anthony Rochester office. Dave is a CPA with more than 12 years of experience. He resides in Webster. Keith Washo '97 is director of sales for Bigfoot Networks, an online gaming company in California's Silicon Valley region. Keith also founded AmazingTechProducts. com and launched Purebuds Earphones (purebudsrevolution.com). Pamela Nolasco Danson '99 and her husband, Erik, welcomed a daughter, Alexa Madison, Jan. 3. Stacey Dick Bichsel '99 and her husband, Todd, welcomed a son, Aidan James, Aug. 16. The family resides in Maryland, where Stacey has taught sixth grade for the past 11 years.
firm Rivkin Radler and Kremer in Uniondale, practicing in the firm's litigation and appeals and health services practice groups. This year, I was named limited partner at Rivkin Radler LLP … While my firm is based in Long Island, I frequently practice in Upstate New York as I represent an Upstate-based industrial/mill supplier and heavy equipment distributor in products liability/personal injury actions brought against it in Onondaga, Niagara, Monroe, St. Lawerence and Schenectady counties (among others)." Julie Strongson '97 married Greg Aldape Jan. 10. Julie is an assistant professor of English. The couple resides in Baltimore. David Thomas '97 was appointed as an associate in the Erdman 42
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Heidi Hummel '00 was recently JUNE 10-12 promoted to senior project and production coordinator at Media Logic, a company she joined in 2004. Heidi handles such Media Logic clients as Bassett, 20thCarnegie Mellon, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Healthways, MVP Healthcare and St. JUNEPeter's. 10-12 She previously served as project and production coordinator.
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Jason A. McAvoy '02 married Cari Knight Sept. 26 in Watertown. Jason works in the Jefferson County Victims Assistance Center.
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Anthony Piccione '05 recently earned American Society for Quality certification. Anthony works as quality engineer at Indium Corp., where he has worked since 2005. He resides in Marcy. After graduating from Oswego, Anthony earned his Six-Sigma Green Belt from the Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth University. John Spuhler '05 married Maggie Jean Grattan '06 Aug. 1, 2009, in Rochester. Maggie teaches in the Wheatland-Chili Central School District. John is health and wellness program coordinator at the University of Rochester. Christie Lyn Hale '06 married Mark Thompson Nov. 14 in St. Pete Beach, Fla. Christie works as a graphic designer at Pavilion Gift Co. in Bergen. They live in Batavia. Sarah McCrobie '06 was promoted to editor of the Oswego Palladium-Times in February. She previously served as city editor. Nicole Hannon '07 recently joined the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in Burlington, Vt., as a meteorologist intern. She most recently worked as forecaster for the Bermuda Weather Service. Nicole writes, "I look forward to getting back to snow and starting my dream career working for the national weather service." Denise Elizabeth Petrelli '07 married Thomas Jones Nov. 7 in Rome, N.Y., where Denise works at the Neighborhood Center.
On a Mission to Help Pets and People As with many people, Marcy Allard '06 gets a happy fix from puppies and kittens, dogs and cats — any pets, really. As a recently certified veterinary technician, she also gets a lot of satisfaction out of helping these animals — wherever they are. In two trips to Honduras with World Vets, Marcy and a crew of about 20 volunteers have spayed or neutered and provided medical treatment to more than 800 animals. The nonprofit effort is dedicated to helping control pet overpopulation and caring for animals in poor areas worldwide. "You can tell there's a difference," from one year to another, said Marcy, who spent one week in Honduras this year and last. She worked on Roatán, an island roughly 30 miles off the coast that was utterly overrun by dogs the first time she visited. Marcy Allard '06 cuddles with some kittens. She volunWorld Vets helps control the populateers with World Vets spaying and neutering animals in tion and keeps the pets — and, in turn, countries with overpopulation problems. people — healthy. The experience has been very rewarding for Marcy, who first started working with animals while living in California after graduating from Oswego. "The plan was to be a nutritionist," said Marcy, a wellness management major. "I always knew I wanted to work in science and medically speaking, I was drawn to working with animals." The Denver resident said in addition to meeting lifelong friends at Oswego, the college opened many doors for her. "During my program at Oswego, I did my internship at Oswego Hospital and that has really helped me," Marcy said. She also got a taste for travel when she spent a semester abroad in Ireland. Marcy, who earned her certification from the Bel-Rea Institute of Animal Technology in July, hopes to make another volunteer trip soon. "It's really a lot of fun," she said. l — Shane M. Liebler
Corinne Heller '03 recently 10-12 as joined KABC-TV in LosJUNE Angeles senior online entertainment producer of the station's OnTheRedCarpet.com. Corinne previously worked for Reuters and E! Enter'80, '81, '82 tainment 30th ReunionTelevision. She writes that her new job combines everything she loves about showbiz, journalism JUNE 10-12 and new media. "More importantly, it's fun," Corinne adds. Margaret Bowen '04 married Paul Gungel Aug. 15, 2009, in Byron, Margaret is employed as 1986Ill.25th a zookeeper at Kangaroo Conservation Center in Dawsonville, The JUNEGa. 10-12 couple resides in Gainesville, Ga.
Matthew Jerauld '08 was hired in October as forms designer by Manpower in Binghamton. Matthew writes he is under contract with Xerox and working at the Binghamton General Hospital print shop.
Amanda Leigh Vanderbosch '07 married Steven Donnelly Sept. 19 in West Seneca, where they live. Amanda works in human resources for Absolut Facilities Management in East Aurora. Richard "Dick" Holbrook '08 was recently promoted to charter coordinator from bus attendant at Hampton Jitney, a company offering transportation from the metropolitan New York City area to the Hamptons. He writes, "I've gone from riding the bus to telling it where to go." 43
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Pamela Nolasco '99 married Erik Danson Aug. 17, 2008, on Long Island. Their guests included, from left: Marc Scher '97, Lara Schuckman Scher, Tara Jacobs Werle '97, Kathy Markham '00, Stephanie Hess '00, Sarah Stark Vakkas '99, the bridegroom, the bride, Tom Vakkas '98, Sue Calvi Murphy '99 and Jill Calvi Heffernan. Attending the wedding, but not pictured, was Melissa Rohe '00. Pamela is a middle and high school Spanish teacher. The couple resides in Long Beach, Long Island. They recently welcomed a daughter (see Class Note, page 42).
Lex Barker '03 and Michelle Rhodes were married Oct. 10 in Rochester. Pictured, from left, are: Timothy Austin, Matthew Robbins, the bride, the bridegroom, Matthew Oberst '03, Dale Barker, Nicholas Cilento, and George Young '04. Lex is a program analyst at the United States Army Corps of Engineers in Buffalo. The couple resides in Lockport.
Christian Woolston '99 married Allison Smith Aug. 22 in Beacon. Pictured front row, left to right, are: Debbie Fisher Woolston '76, Shana Traver Olivera '99, Kim Letky '06, the bridegroom, the bride and Tom Palazzo '00. Pictured middle row, left to right, are: Sean Kraft '98, Bryan Eidel '00 and Tyrell Musch '05. Pictured back row, left to right, are: Lucas Bliss '99, John Ditton '69, Jerry Matthews '98, Kevin Yahn '03 and Carolyn Quoma Kraft '99.
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Elizabeth Warner Huchzermeier Cramer '35 of Watertown died Feb. 6. She taught in the Thousand Island School District, retiring in 1970. Elizabeth is survived by a son, a daughter, five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, two stepdaughters as well as step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Anna Remis '35 of Clinton passed away March 27, 2008. Bernetta Avery Sweezey '38 of Jacksonville, Fla., died Dec. 1, 2009. She taught in Owasco and was a teaching assistant in Freeport. Bernetta is survived by a daughter, two sons, eight grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband, Leland '40. Cecilia Foley Siembor '43 of Oswego passed away March 30. She taught at St. Mary's School for many years and retired as director of religious education in 1986. Cecilia is survived by three daughters, Cecilia McLaughlin '67, Nancy '71 and Natalie '93, and two sons, Thomas '74 and Jim. Edward "Ace" Henderson '49 of Sebring, Fla., died Jan. 19. He served with the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II aboard the U.S.S. Alabama. He was a teacher at Schwarting School in Massapequa. Surviving is his wife, Tillie; two step-daughters; step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Nancy "Bambi" Hirschaut Bernhard '51 of Beverly Hills, Calif., passed away Feb. 20. She earned her master's degree at Columbia before beginning a career as an elementary school teacher in Florida, moving in 1957 to Los Angeles with her husband. She volunteered countless hours to her favorite causes, from presiding over PTAs to helping victims of domestic violence to the Skirball Museum and the West Coast Jewish Theatre. She was predeceased by her husband, Herbert, and is survived by three daughters, a son and five grandchildren. Genevieve Mullen Maloney '57 of North Syracuse passed away Feb. 28. She completed graduate studies in library science at Syracuse University. Genevieve was an elementary librarian and teacher in the Phoenix Central School District for several years. She taught in the
Michael Nolan '05 and Brittany Muisus '06 were married May 23, 2009, in Canandaigua. Alumni in attendance included, front row, left to right: Nick Isgro '06, Matt Muisus '00, the bride, Brianne Muisus Buffett '03, Lisa Marino '06 and Michelle Luczynski '07. Pictured second row, left to right, are: Adam Phelps '05, the bridegroom, Rob Tramontozzi '07, Michael Malecki '04 and Craig Smith '05. Pictured third row, left to right, are: C.J. Williams '06, Travis Hon '05, Becca Ritchie '06 and Mike Uchal '05. Pictured final row, left to right, are: Dave Moore '04, Lindsey Conlin '04, Justine Ruggieri '05, Ryan Andrews '04, Jamie Share '07 and Niki Ritchie '06. Michael is a commercial property adjuster for Liberty Mutual in Weston, Mass. Brittany is an office manager for the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine at St. Elizabeth's Medical Center in Boston, where the couple resides.
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North Syracuse Central School District from 1960 until her retirement in 1995. Surviving are her husband, Robert '58; a daughter; two sons; and six grandchildren. Elaine Swiller Spanier '57 of Lake Worth, Fla., passed away Dec. 23, 2008. Otto Graepel '59 of Rockville Centre passed away Dec. 24, 2008. He is survived by his wife, Eleanore Miley '59. Elda O'Hara Wight '59 of Oswego died March 5. She was a graduate of Potsdam Normal School and taught in several school districts. She retired as a kindergarten teacher at Minetto School. Elda is survived by a daughter, Jan Greco '63; a son, John; and five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Anne Paul Bouffard '60 of Broadalbin died July 3, 2009. Prior to her retirement in 1998, Anne taught in the Broadalbin-Perth Central School District. She is survived by a son and a daughter. David Owen '60 of Vero Beach, Fla., died July 21, 2008. He is survived by his wife, Holly; a daughter and a son. Barbara Mitchell Rourke '60 of Kattskill Bay died Nov. 24, 2009. Elinor Burton Smith '62 of St. Augustine, Fla., died Feb. 11. Ellie taught in Rochester for 20 years before retiring in 2000. Surviving are her husband, Jim; two sons; a daughter; a stepson; and six grandchildren. Barbara Alvord '63 of Liverpool died Jan. 15. She taught for more than 35 years in the Liverpool Central School District, retiring in 2000. Lawrence Barnum '63 of Fort Myers, Fla., died Sept. 27, 2009. He is survived by his wife, Ruth. Marsha Winter Iverson '67 of Valparaiso, Ind., passed away Feb. 23. She taught in Stamford, Conn. Surviving are her husband, Raymond; a son; a daughter; and three grandchildren. John Phillips '67 of Oswego died March 14. He earned master's degrees at Oswego and SUNY Cortland. He previously taught in the Grand Island and North Syracuse continued on p. 47 Oswego
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continued from page 45 school districts. He later worked for Stone and Webster in Oswego and Anheuser-Busch in Baldwinsville and St. Louis. Jacklynne Schutt Lorensen '68 of Auke Bay, Alaska, passed away Feb. 6. She taught in the Albany School District before moving to Alaska, where she taught fifth grade and retired as a school librarian. She is survived by her husband, Ron Swanson; and a daughter. Jill Bracey Lajeskie '69 of Monmouth Junction, N.J., died Feb. 3. She taught in the East Brunswick School District for the past 35 years. She is survived by a daughter. Robert Smith '69, M '81 of Liverpool passed away Sept. 29, 2009. He taught in the North Syracuse Central School District for 34 years. Surviving are a daughter and two grandchildren. Frederick Apker '70 of Dryden died July 26, 2009. He taught in the Ithaca City School District for 33 years, retiring in 2005. He is survived by his wife, Mary Hastings '71; a son; a daughter; and seven grandchildren.
In Memoriam Policy Printing notices of alumni deaths is an important service of Oswego alumni magazine. In order to ensure the accuracy of our reports, we require verification before we can publish a death notice—an obituary or a letter signed by a family member. Because the magazine is published only three times a year and we are working on an issue months in advance, there may be a delay of several months between the time we receive notification and the news is printed in the magazine. Thank you for your patience!
Summer 2010
Brian Archibee '79 of Sandy Creek died March 11. He taught in Manchester, N.H., before returning to Central New York to work with the Carpenters Local 747. Surviving are three brothers, Ronald '72; David and Daniel; and his sister, Lydiann. He is also survived by three nieces and six nephews, including Benjamin Archibee MSED '01. Barbara Jaskula Irwin '82 of Oswego passed away Feb. 26. She was employed at SUNY Oswego with Auxiliary Services. She is survived by her husband, Gary '83; a son and a daughter. David Schuster '87 of Round Rock, Texas, passed away March 1. He was employed with Home Depot. David is survived by his wife, April. Brett Townley '00 of Little River, S.C., passed away June 4, 2009. He is survived by his father, Raymond. Margaret Fowler Goloski '02, M '05 of Baldwinsville passed away June 15, 2009. Margaret taught art history at Cayuga Community College for several years. Surviving are her husband, James; a son; and two daughters. Nikki Quirk Picotte '09 of Weedsport died March 31. She was an office associate with Marshall Companies and was doing graduate work at Oswego. Nikki is survived by her husband, Chad, and two daughters. Harry Charlton, Former Assistant to President Foster Brown and Director of Public Relations, passed away March 24. After leaving Oswego, Harry held a variety of posts within SUNY. He was instrumental in the development of SUNY Council for University Advancement, serving as president, central office liaison and executive secretary. The SUNYCUAD Board of Directors established a scholarship in his honor, the Harry and Barbara Charlton SUNYCUAD Newcomer Scholarship, in 1993.
Mayon Chuck Johnson '70 of Shreveport, La., passed away Jan. 22. He is survived by his wife, Rebecca. Francis Furfaro M '71 of Syracuse passed away March 29. David Hovey '71 of Barboursville, Va., died April 18, 2009. Donald Branshaw '72 of Tucson, Ariz., passed away March 10. He was employed by S.J. Groves. Don is survived by his wife, Mary. David Nealon '72 of Vero Beach, Fla., died Feb. 5. He earned a juris doctor degree from St. John's University School of Law. David was employed by the New York State Bill Drafting Commission and had recently retired from the state Department of Transportation. Surviving are his wife, Suzanne; two daughters; and a grandson. Mary Guglielmo Rogers '72 of Wantagh passed away April 16. She is survived by her husband, William '72. Patricia Niccoli '73 of Fulton died April 14. She taught at G. Ray Bodley High School for many years. Surviving are her husband, John; two sons and two grandchildren. Sharon Benzel '74 of Sarasota, Fla., died June 10, 2007. She is survived by a son, two daughters, eight grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren. Daniel Woolever '74 of Poughkeepsie passed away Feb. 2. He earned his master's degree at SUNY Albany. Dan taught technology in the Hyde Park School District for 31 years. He is survived by his wife, Laurie; and two sons. Richard Mitarotonda '77 of Wilton, Conn., passed away Sept. 5, 2009. He was an executive vice president/principal at Towers Perrin. Rich is survived by his wife, Maura; a daughter and a daughter. Karen Bundle '78 of Kirkville passed away May 23, 2009.
Dr. James R. Hastings '41, Professor Emeritus of Industrial Arts, of Volney died July 16. He served as treasurer of the student government, gained induction into the Epsilon Pi Tau honor society and became a member of Beta Tau Epsilon as a student. He taught at Cobleskill Central School and served in the U.S. Air Force before earning his doctorate from New York University. During his 37-year-career as an industrial arts professor at Oswego, Jim helped build the curriculum, edited Viewpoint magazine, conducted summer institutes for the blind and worked on vocational rehabilitation with the disabled. He retired in 1978. In 1995, he was recognized by the Oswego Alumni Association, along with his wife, Nina, with an Alumni Service Award. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Nina Livaccari Hastings '43; a son and daughter. Contributions may be made to the James and Nina Hastings Scholarship Fund, c/o the Oswego College Foundation, 219 Sheldon Hall, SUNY Oswego, Oswego, NY 13126. Richard Shineman, Professor Emeritus of Chemistry, passed away May 27. Dick earned a bachelor's degree at Cornell University, a master's degree at Syracuse University and a doctorate at Ohio State. He was hired in 1962 as the first chair of Oswego's chemistry department. Upon his retirement in 1988, Dick provided a legacy of four freshman chemistry scholarships per year for outstanding incoming students. He is survived by his wife, Professor Emeritus of Education Barbara Palmer Shineman '65; a stepson, Robert Palmer; a stepdaughter, Kathy Barker; two grandchildren; and a greatgrandson. Memorial contributions may be made to the Oswego College Foundation, 219 Sheldon Hall, for the freshman chemistry scholarships.
Alumni Bookshelf This column celebrates the publishing success of Oswego alumni authors, illustrators and recording artists. Please keep us informed about new books and audio recordings by requesting that your publisher or distributor send a copy for the Oswego Alumni Bookshelf at King Alumni Hall. Pearl Itzkowitz Wolf '51 tells the story of an accidental affair in Too Hot for a Rake. Her latest romance novel focuses on Lady Helena Fairchild, who is sent to the country after a scandalous crossing with a rake. Kensington, 2010. Eleanor Kozak Slusarczyk '54 brings Poland to the reader in The Crystalline Eagle. This collection of poetry is a tour of landmarks all around the Eastern European country through pictures and words. Trafford Publishing, 2006. Follow the downward spiral of a public school educator in Confessions of a Rogue Teacher. George Colon '71 details the emotional journey of an English teacher, Manny Quesada, after his physical altercation with a student and his fight to return to teaching in this novel. iUniverse, 2008. Deborah Hotaling Schneider '75 tells the story of a wife in an arranged marriage in Promise Me. Follow the sorrowful story of the main character as she is widowed and then meets the possible man of her dreams, who has other intentions. The Wild Rose Press, 2009. Mark Allen Baker '79 reflects on the rich heritage of boxing in Central New York in his 14th book, Title Town, USA: Boxing in Upstate New York. Mark revisits famous fights and introduces readers to the talented boxers who hail from the region. History Press, 2010.
Mark Doyle '81 and his wife, Diana, have collected numerous nautical charts and data for a two-DVD set that updates their previous effort. Managing the Waterway: Complete Electronic Chart and Nautical Reference Library includes National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Electronic Navigation Charts and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Inland Electronic Navigation Charts. Christina "Kia" Graham Ricchi '84 teaches homeowners how to find and properly conduct business with contractors in Avoiding the Con in Construction. An Orlando-based building contractor, Christina covers work, licensing, insurance, contracts, liens and more in layman's terms. The book won the Indie Excellence Award and the Independent Publisher's Living Now Award. Library Journal wrote, "This specialized book is highly recommended." Centerline Production, 2010. Denise Ashe Devine '89, M '93 recently released a trio of books for educators. She writes about new ways to engage students in grades two through six in Fun-tastic Activities for Differentiating Comprehension Instruction. Quality Comprehension includes instructions for monitoring thirdthrough sixth-grade classes so that students will understand the included readings at the highest level. Motivating Every Student in Literacy offers ways to motivate third- through sixth-graders
with memory tips and awards. International Reading Association, 2010 and 2008. Eye on Education, 2010. Fantasy and the Magic Bicycle follows a young girl, Fantasy, as she dreams of her travels on a bicycle that flies and talks. Richard McElroy M '94 writes how Fantasy copes with her father leaving for war by visiting him in her dreams. Mirror Publishing, 2009. Christopher Leahey '96 shares his thoughts about how to best educate students about wars, both past and present, in Whitewashing War. Using the Vietnam War as a case study, Leahey argues that the No Child Left Behind Act has stifled meaningful social studies curriculum. Teachers College Press, 2010. Professor Emeritus Luciano J. Iorizzo and co-editor Ernest E. Rossi explore The Italian Americans: Bridges to Italy, Bonds to America. Drawing from a wide variety of primary sources, such as census tracts, local directories, diaries, voting records, newspaper accounts, personal interviews and scholarly and polemical books and articles, the history text shows how ItalianAmericans adapted, through work, prejudice, strife, and advancement, to the social and political life in America while still retaining an element of Italianita. Teneo Press, 2010.
Summer 2010
T h e
L a s t
Words of Wisdom for Recent Grads
here's a line from the movie, "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," where his girlfriend, Sloane, is practicing her speech for graduation and says, "My fellow graduates, I have seen our future and I'm here to tell you — Go back." That line popped in my head this week as so many young people graduate college. They are walking across that stage — but to what? Not since the Great Depression have we seen an economy like this one; lean doesn't begin to describe the employment landscape. I ran into a former Fox intern the other evening at Ryan's Wake in Troy (that's a bar; there's no dead guy named Ryan) and asked how she is. Answer: "Scared. I graduate next week with my teaching certificate and no where to teach." It was a moment where you offer up some platitude to make the medicine go down and say it's going to be alright. Instead I said, "Pretty crowded here tonight, huh?" If ever there was a time to stay in school and
If you can't find a job in your field, don't take one that pays good money doing something else. Next thing you know you have a car payment, rent and you are locked into a career you hate. Work two crappy jobs if you have to, but never take your eyes off the prize. Don't gossip at the office. People who gossip to you also gossip about you, and every snotty comment you make is like a landmine waiting to be stepped on. Bosses like busy workers, not busy bodies. Don't date at the office. Unless you two get married, you'll break up and every trip to the cafeteria becomes an episode of "Grey's Anatomy." Don't expect life to be fair. People who are dumber than you will get advancement over you. Just document your work, cover your backside and make sure the right people see your abilities. Old dumb and dumber will eventually crash and burn. When you mess up, own up. Don't make the boss come look
get that advanced degree, this is it. But alas, you can't hide in the cave forever and eventually the sleeping 'til noon and beer pong has to end, so here we are. Truth is it will get better. Eventually. Until then, I remind our recent grads that when I got out of SUNY Oswego in 1985 there were no news reporter jobs in radio or TV, so I bussed tables at the old Turf Inn on Wolf Road for six months. Eventually it all worked out. So my fellow graduates, while we wait for your rainbow and pot of gold, perhaps I can talk about the things they didn't teach you in college that will make the road ahead easier. First off, lose the grandiose idea of what you are worth and what you can do. If you are lucky enough to get hired even part time in your chosen field you will take it and not complain. This is chess, not checkers — see the whole board. Work hard and late — boss will notice and full-time employment will follow.
for you. Stay late and don't ask for overtime. Trust me — this works. Network, network, network. More jobs have been found, products sold and deals sealed over golf games, cocktail hours and chamber mixers than any boardroom. I know a guy who went to a friend's house to watch the Giants game, shook the right hand and picked up a half-milliondollar account. That's life. You won't make money sitting at home alone on Saturday night reading "Twilight" — although you will know that vampires love playing baseball during thunderstorms. Be patient. This isn't a sprint; it truly is a marathon. Get your foot in the door and impress them. If it doesn't happen right away, work harder. If they don't appreciate you, leave. I spent 15 years at another TV station and when I left lots of people said, "What are you doing Gray? Mistake." Not one of them says that now. Remember, chess not checkers. Oh, and be humble. If you're just out of school, you don't get to be the king or queen or even the knight just yet. You, my friend, are the pawn for a while. But pawns are cool and when they get to the other side of the board they change into something better. Any questions? Bueller? Bueller? John Gray '85 is a news anchor on WXAA-Fox TV 23, and this column is reprinted from The Saratogian with permission. He is also a writer for Capital Region Living Magazine and recently won a national short-story writing contest. E-mail JohnGray@ fox23news.com
Spring 2010
Published on Jul 1, 2010
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