Gwynedd-Mercy College Spring 2013Gwynedd-Mercy College Spring 2013Gwynedd-Mercy College Spring 2013

As the days of March unfold, including the mid-March feast of SaintPatrick, I can’t help but recall memories of my home town’s annualSaint Patrick’s Day Parade and the city’s tradition of coloring theChicago River a bright shade of emerald green. While my culturalheritage is only fifty percent Irish, Saint Paddy’s Day was always a

day of celebration in our family and a day-off from whatever I happened to begiving up in Lent for that particular year.

As a parent, I remember telling stories to my sons on Saint Patrick’s Day, whichhad them looking for the Leprechaun that might lead them to a pot o’ gold at theend of the rainbow. While they were almost always certain that they saw themagical Leprechaun leaping across the yard, they were never quite quick enoughto catch the Leprechaun or find that pot o’ gold. I, on the other hand, am here totell you that I have seen the Leprechaun and found the pot o’ gold at the end ofthe rainbow.

Our pot o’ gold has been shaped by generations of Leprechauns including Sisters of Mercy, alumni, students,faculty and staff, as well as all our friends and benefactors, who enable the College to provide the high qualitylearning our students need to succeed and thrive in an era of global interconnection and rapid societal andeconomic change. Before the end of the calendar year, we will open our new academic complex that willdemonstrate our commitment to innovation and advanced educational practices with opportunity to enhancefaculty-led creativity, systemic change, and higher levels of student achievement. I invite you to watch theconstruction progress in real time by visiting the GMC webpage [www.gmc.edu] and clicking on the“Construction Cam.” You will see our state-of-the-art, technologically enhanced, environmentally sensitiveacademic center that will be home to our Schools of Education and Business.

Over the next many months, the Frances M. Maguire School of Nursing and Health Professions will introduce theCollege’s first doctoral degree program, i.e. the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. The College has a longhistory and strong traditions in preparing highly effective nurses to serve urban and suburban Philadelphia, theLower Delaware River Valley and beyond. As we strive to meet the evolving healthcare needs of our local andlarger geographic region, our DNP program will prepare the next generation of advanced practice Mercy nurses ina program that fosters intellectual rigor, ethical competence, a global perspective along with the Mercy focus onadvocacy directed toward social change.

My guess is that many of you believe that you have never met a Leprechaun or seen the pot o’ gold at rainbow’send. Now it’s true that the traditional Leprechaun of Irish folklore is disguised as a shoemaker; however, myexperience includes encounters with Leprechauns from a broad range of fields, professions and trades, includingall of you. Your loyal, ongoing and generous support is evidence that you know where to find the Leprechaun’s poto’ gold…it’s Gwynedd-Mercy College and our Distinctive Mercy Graduates.

Kathleen Owens, PhDPresident

President’s Message Spring 2013

Wearin’ the Green

ContentsCarol’s Troupe 2

Hurricane Sandy 5

Conventional Wisdom 9

PLUS

President’s Message Inside Cover

Campus News 2

Sports 10

Alumni NewsA Dose of Haitian Hospitality 16Britany Smith ’08

“A Zoo Story” 18Nancy Grzesik ’70

Class Notes 24

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Gwynedd-Mercy CollegeToday is published twice ayear for the alumni andfriends of the College. Yourcomments and suggestionsare welcome.

Gerald T. McLaughlinVice President for InstitutionalAdvancement

Editor:Anthony Stipa

Assistant Editor:Shani Berler

Creative Director and Production Manager:Donna Smyrl

Contributors:Daniel Bencardino ’13Dan Freed ’13Teresa Harris Brittany Smith ’08

Design:Kim Austin Design

Photography:Shani BerlerRob Gregor ’13Linda JohnsonHunter MartinChris PanterJim RoeseDonna SmyrlAnthony Stipa

On the Cover: Nancy Grzesik ’70, visits witha newborn giraffe at theBrevard Zoo.

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2 Today Campus News

By: Anthony Stipa

On November 30, 2012, Gwynedd-MercyCollege’s Voices of Gwynedd performedtheir Christmas Memories concert in JuliaBall Auditorium. It was significant not onlybecause the room swelled beyond capacity,but for the fact that it marked twenty yearsof the “Carol Evans Era.”

The animated and fearless assistantprofessor of music signed on to lead arag-tag troupe of singers late in the springof 1992. Known simply as “Glee Club” at thetime, Evans rejuvenated a little-knownprogram into a community staple andglobetrotting entity.

“I came to their spring concert—no lie—thewhole audience was 12 people,” Evans said.“There might have been 20 people on thestage. It just looked like this random groupof people. I went home and said to myhusband, ‘What did I get myself into?’”

It took a highly-motivated and ambitiouspersonality to establish a presence oncampus. Add Evans’ patience andperseverance to the equation, and the Voicesof Gwynedd would soon be headliningperformances in Ireland, Italy, and Canada.They’ve been featured at New York City’sCarnegie Hall and at Philadelphia’s KimmelCenter. The Philadelphia Flyers, Eagles andPhillies have all been entertained by the(varying in size) 100-piece ensemble.

For Evans, who has a master of musicdegree in music performance, there wasnever really a question of finding success,but how long it would take to attain. Herformative years were spent pounding thepiano keys and belting shower solos, until itwas evident that music was more than ahealthy obsession. Passing these passionsonto others was where she would excel.

At William Penn High School in York, Pa.Evans was the architect of anaward-winning choir for five years. Shewould move to Philadelphia in order topursue teaching and voice coaching at thecollegiate level. Evans’ trademark stylehelped her gain wide acclaim as sheworked at Villanova University, Temple

Carol’s TroupeAfter two decades of musical memories, assistant professor of music

Carol Evans and her local vocal group is all grown up.

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Five Unforgettable MemoriesBy: Carol Evans

One of my favorite tour stories was singing in

Florence, Italy in the Santa Maria Maggiore

Basilica—it was simply magical. It was well

over 100 degrees, with humidity and no air

conditioning, but none of that mattered. As we

sang, more and more people piled into the

church. Every piece got better and better, and

as we sang through the program my eyes filled

with tears as I could feel every note that we

sang. At the end of the concert the feeling was

mutual for all the members as we hugged and

celebrated a fantastic performance.

A funny story—one of our singers lost his

passport when traveling to Italy. It fell out of his

backpack and was left on the former flight at

Heathrow Airport (London). We had to travel to

Italy for our actual concert tour, so he had to

become a British citizen for 24 hours until they

got the passport back to him. In addition, since

he traveled light, he checked all the girls’

uniforms with his luggage and therefore, we had

no uniforms until the very last concert on tour.

Another very moving experience was singing

God Bless America, I’m Proud to be an

American, The Navy Hymn, and the national

anthem over the Grand Canyon on July 4, 2007.

So many veterans came up to us with tears in

their eyes thanking us for singing and making

them feel proud to have served our country.

We have traveled to and sung in Ireland two

times, in 1998 and 2008. We made a

pilgrimage to Ireland on both the 50th and

60th anniversaries of Gwynedd-Mercy College.

A highlight of those tours was singing for the

Sisters at the Mercy International Centre,

sharing stories from home and also enjoying a

“comfortable cup of tea” with people from all

around the world. On our most recent tour to

Ireland in 2008, we sang on the top of a

mountain at the very northern coast of the

country while seeing Scotland in the distance.

What a stunning sight and magnificent

experience!

One last experience was the Christmas concert

after September 11, where we started the

concert with the national anthem—I think it

sent a chill down the spine of everyone there.

University, and Haverford College alongthe way.

By 1992, Gwynedd-Mercy College knewthey were getting someone with the talentto usher in a new era. Evans concentratedon recruiting more males to a primarilyfemale-dominated endeavor. It promoteddiversity and brought bass to theburgeoning group. Evans believes there isno such thing as a prototypical singer, andstill hasn’t found anyone she can’t “cure” oftheir melodic deficiency.

“I take anybody,” Evans beamed. “Once Iteach them how to hear it, it works foreveryone. Even for those singers that think‘Oh my goodness, I’m never going to get it’,they get it.”

But, as Evans will tell you, it’s not about her.

The Voices of Gwynedd, collectively, havebuilt relationships beyond the stage. TheGwynedd Valley community has been abackbone of support throughout the years,turning out in record numbers to hearannual performances. The ensemble alsoincorporates Gwynedd-Mercy Collegealumni, creating a fraternal camaraderie.

“The older, non-traditional singers inspirethe younger ones,” Evans said. “Sometimesthey even give my younger ones jobs. It isgreat networking and so enriching that theyhave something to give to each other.”

Marie Blasetti ’01 has been a member forsixteen years, “making magic” and learningabout the legendary composers and uniquecultures of the world. She’s performed inItalian chapels, and went with the group toCarnegie Hall in the spring of 2004. Blasetticites lasting friendships and a stabilizingpresence through the highs and lows of her life.

“Like any family, we celebrate each other’sjoy, whether it be celebrating a couple’sengagement, or celebrating the birth of anew child,” Blasetti said. “And we alsocome together to support one another intimes of sorrow. The love shared by Caroland the entire choir is the most special partof this ensemble.”

It was a little more than a decade ago thatEvans’ had a moment of realization after aVoices of Gwynedd Christmas concert. Apatron approached her after the show tooffer high praise. She had just returnedfrom a trip to Branson, Missouri—a vibranthub for Music Theatre—and decided tocatch a local performance on campus.

“I don’t even know her name, but she said ‘Ijust heard all of [Branson’s] Christmasshows and your show was better than anyof the ones I heard out there’,” Evansrecounted. “I was just so pumped when Iheard that, and so proud of the Voices.”

Compliments are rewarding, but onlyadditional incentive to produce exceptionalmusic. Evans is actively aware of this, andback to molding a group of dedicatedvocalists. Each semester the goal is toblend new arrivals with an experiencedcore of veteran voices. It can be anintimidating workload, and students arenaturally perturbed by the challengingmusical pieces they have to master.However, by the time of the SpringMusicale—the 20th anniversaryperformances will be held on April 17 andApril 19—it’s a complete team effort. Evansis direct and curt with her approach.

“Look guys—I set the bar really high foryou, I know you can do this, but it’s becauseI love and respect you,” Evans imitatesherself. “Every year, they surprise me andexceed expectations.”

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In the early years, the group was comprised of a coupledozen singers. Shown here is a practice at Julia BallAuditorium circa 1995.

(Left to right) Matt Smollinger ’05, Jason McCully ’00,Carolyn Dwyer ’05, Jaclyn Dwyer ’04, Bridget Mscisz ’05,and Jen Lorine ’06 appeared in a special performance ofthe opera “Vanqui” at Franklin & Marshall College in 2003.

(Left to right) Sam Lockerby, London Harmon, BrittanyKeller ’11/’12, and Matt Agos prepare to go on stagebefore the 2011 Spring Musicale at Julia Ball Auditorium.

4 Today

Voices of Gwynedd Tours1995 Williamsburg, Va.1996 Washington, D.C.1998 Ireland 1999 San Diego, Calif. (spring)1999 Columbus, Ohio (fall)2000 Nashville, Tenn. 2001 London, England2002 Canada/Niagara Falls 2003 Orlando, Fla. 2004 New York City, N.Y.2005 Italy 2006 Washington, D.C.2007 Southwest United States2008 Ireland 2009 Boston, Mass.2010 Alaska2011 New Orleans, La.2012 Philadelphia, Pa.2013 Prague and Austria

The Voices of Gwynedd have performed the national anthem at Philadelphia Eagles, Flyers and Phillies games.Here, they share a colorful moment with the Phillie Phanatic.

This spring and summer, the Voices ofGwynedd will also continue the tradition oftaking their act on the road. They’ve been tomore than a dozen destinations, soon addingperformances in Vienna, Prague and Austriato an illustrious list. The “Sound of MusicTour”—as it’s being billed—is a journeyback to both classical music’s roots and thefamous Rodgers and Hammerstein musical.

“Prague is one of the hottest cities for musicright now,” Evans said. “This trip is so specialbecause it has gorgeous cathedrals andvenues for great performances,” she added.

The Voices of Gwynedd’s symphonic soundhas amplified the reputation ofGwynedd-Mercy College. Whether echoingoff of the walls in Julia Ball Auditorium, theSanta Maria Maggiore Basilica in Florence,Italy, or the basin of the Grand Canyon, theyhave served as ambassadors both near toand far from campus. The challenge now isgetting an ever-growing fan base to fitinside the confines of Julia Ball Auditorium. �

In 2007, the Voices of Gwynedd toured the southwestern portion of the United States. During Memorial DayWeekend, they sang patriotic songs atop the Grand Canyon.

Every spring for nearly a decade, the Voices of Gwynedd have performed on the Philadelphia Art Museum steps tokick-off the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure event, benefitting breast cancer.

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PERSEVERING THROUGHHURRICANE SANDY

By: Teresa Harris

Hurricane Sandy left its mark onland, and a deep impression in thehearts and minds of many in theNortheast Corridor of the UnitedStates. The “super storm”—consideredthe largest Atlantic seaboard hurricane inrecorded history—crippled the region,leaving 125 fatalities and damageestimates of $65.5 billion. ThoughHurricane Irene in 2011 was detrimentaland costly in its own right, it wasresponsible for only one-fourth of thedamage and half of the fatalities as Sandy.

Gwynedd-Mercy College students andstaff felt the impact with a loss of power,

heat, and hot water resulting in classcancellations. Large trees tumbledacross campus, and although they havebeen cleaned up, the memories of atraumatic time frame still linger.

Dr. Cheryl Lynn Horsey, vice presidentfor enrollment and student services,remembers the height of the storm onMonday, Oct. 29, 2012. “The Collegedidn’t have hot water, electricity orheat,” she said.

Addressing student and parent concernsabout campus safety was GMC’s firstpriority. Rick LaRosa, director of resident

life, was responsible for students whoremained in the residence halls.

“When we dealt with Hurricane Irene in[August] 2011, there wasn’t much of animpact,” LaRosa said. “We had askedstudents to move into the residence hallsa little early to avoid delays, but wedidn’t lose power so classes began asscheduled,” he said.

About 25 trees were uprooted when HurricaneSandy blew through, requiring a collective cleanupeffort. A large tree was uprooted adjacent to TheGriffin Complex, requiring several weeks toremove.

6 Today

Hurricane Sandy had presented a biggerchallenge for the campus this timearound. The residence halls were open,but due to the outages, the library wasclosed and dining services were limited.

“There were 207 students in our residencehalls without power as of Monday at8:30p.m., and we had to come up with aplan to keep them safe, fed and warm,”LaRosa said. “Parkhurst Dining Servicesdelivered meals to the main lounges of theresidence halls so that students didn’t haveto risk walking around on campus duringthe most dangerous parts of the storm.”

Mary Beth Popelak, a senior radiationtherapy student from Pennsauken, N.J.,recalled a feeling of uncertainty duringthe storm’s onslaught.

“When the power went out Mondaynight, I dragged my mattress to move inwith my suitemates since my roommatehad gone home. My suitemates and Itried to preserve our food by keepingthe refrigerator doors shut, but endedup throwing everything out onTuesday,” she said.

“I thought about going home toPennsauken on Sunday, but didn’t thinkthe storm was going to be as bad as itwas. Once they started closing thebridges, I didn’t think it would be worththe trouble, so I stayed,” she said.

LaRosa and public safety personnelreviewed proper evacuation plans withstudents, fortunately, it wasn’t necessaryto enforce. Campus was able to resumeto somewhat normal activities byWednesday, Oct. 31.

Horsey and LaRosa expressed theirgratitude to the students and staffduring the storm. They commendedtheir patience and understanding duringa stressful time, also citing the work ofdining services and public safety.

“This whole experience has opened oureyes and started discussions aboutfuture emergency plans. The studentscan always count on us doing whatever isin their best interests,” Dr. Horsey said.

While the storm’s ramifications oncampus were manageable, the nightmarewas just beginning for some of theCollege’s commuter students. Seniorhuman services major Mary McGrathendured setbacks of her own. “My familylives in Hatboro, Pa., and we experienceda power outage for about a week. We alsodidn’t have hot water and ended up usinga neighbor’s bathroom to take showers atone point. I felt like a homeless person.”

The McGraths kept an ice-filled coolerfor food, and went to the laundromat to

wash clothes, and charge their cellphones. Listening to a battery poweredradio helped keep the family abreast ofstorm related updates.

“I really didn’t get any homework doneand missed some of my internship. I wasable to go to my classes during the daybut at night it was all about stayingwarm and finding something to eat. Myprofessors were very understandingthough and had changed their syllabi toaccommodate for the lost time duringthe storm,” she added.

Dee Simms, a junior computer informationscience major and staff member fromQuakertown, Pa., lost power at home forseveral nights. However, Lourdes Libraryoffered a small sample of relief by way ofhot coffee during work.

“I was able to use the library computersto do some of my work during my shift,but getting work done at home waspretty much impossible at night. Aftercleaning up from the storm, I spent thenext two weeks catching up on myschoolwork,” she admitted.

Though Gwynedd-Mercy College was ableto resume normal activities soon after thestorm, it did not forget about those stillstruggling with daily survival due to hugelosses and displacement. True to thehistory and heritage of the Sisters ofMercy, the GMC Mission and ValuesCommittee collected donations at theirThanksgiving Ecumenical Celebration. Asa result, more than five hundred dollarswas given to the Sisters of Mercy for theHurricane Sandy Response Fund to helpwith the relief effort.�

Senior suitemates Mary Beth Popelak, RosieKowalski, and Michelle Haggerty (left to right)huddled together in their residence at St. BrigidHall during the height of the storm. Power outagescrippled the building and the girls played cardgames to pass the time.

Senior radiation therapy major Mary Beth Popelakpeers out the window of her room in St. Brigid’sduring the superstorm.

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The Independence Blue Cross Foundationand The Maguire Foundation partnered toprovide $183,488 in funding toGwynedd-Mercy College’s Adult HealthCenter in Lansdale, Pa. The IBC Foundationallocated $75,000. The Maguire Foundationgraciously matched that figure, with $33,488additionally set aside for studentscholarships. It was a commitment to thepresent and future of nursing.

“We are honored to once again partner withThe Maguire Foundation in support of theGwynedd-Mercy College Adult HealthCenter, which area residents depend on forvital health services and quality care,” IBCFoundation President Lorina Marshall-Blake

said. “We’re also proud to support nursingstudents at the College through ourFoundation’s Nursing for Tomorrowprogram. The new health care law will bringmany changes and challenges and the needfor highly skilled nurses is going to be moreimportant than ever before.”

The Adult Health Center has been a stableentity that has supported the localcommunity for more than a decade, servingunderinsured patients who have financialobstacles to overcome. The facility averages3,500 patient visits per year, with about100-130 visits per week. A challengingeconomic environment has increased thesignificance of contributions like this one.

“Gwynedd-Mercy College is unique due toits history of improving the health andwell-being of at-risk populations,” said Dr.Andrea Hollingsworth, dean of the FrancesM. Maguire School of Nursing and HealthProfessions. “We are honored that theIndependence Blue Cross Foundation andThe Maguire Foundation support ourtraditions of service to society and studentenlightenment.”

The College has been gratified bycontinued generosity from the twoorganizations. Last year, the IBCFoundation and The Maguire Foundationeach donated $50,000 to the same cause. �

Mary Anne Franciscorecently retired as a CertifiedSchool Nurse in thePennsbury School District.She was responsible formeeting mandatedrequirements for almost1,500 students, facilitatingprograms for healthybehaviors, mentoring schoolnurse interns and routinely

interfaced with government agencies, schooladministration, students and communitymembers. During her 42 years in thenursing profession, her work includedvarious positions as a professional nursethroughout the Delaware Valley andConnecticut. Francisco holds numerouscertifications and degrees including master’sdegrees in nursing and education from TheCollege of New Jersey and Villanova University.

Francisco is active in Sigma Theta Tau (IotaKappa Chapter), which is the internationalnursing honor society, and the NationalAssociation of School Nurses. Some of her

many distinctions include the AmericanCancer Society’s 1990 “Nurse of Hope”recognition for smoking cessationprograms in schools, as well as the“National Best Paper Award” in 1991for student-aged psychosocial research.In 2007, Francisco served as a delegateto China on a People to PeopleAmbassadors Program trip, traveling toBeijing, Shanghai, Guilin and HongKong in order to compare nursingphilosophies.

David Mallach has been at Merrill Lynchsince 1973, where he currently serves as awealth management advisor and is themanaging director of investments in theElkins Park, Pa. office. He has authoredseveral wealth management books,including “Moneywork$,” “InvestmentSecrets,” “Dancing with the Analysts,”“Walking with the Analysts,” and “Runningwith the Analysts.” In 2006, Mallach earneda spot in Research Magazine’s Hall of Fame,and in 2007 he was selected as RegisteredRepresentative Magazine’s Outstanding

Advisor of the Year. For the past three years,Barron’s Magazine has named Mallach to alist of America’s top 1,000 advisors. He haslectured extensively in Europe, Scandinavia,the Middle East, South and Central Americaas well as the United States.

Mallach’s philanthropy has led to severaladmirable endeavors, one of them being theestablishment of the University of

Pennsylvania’s MallachHouse in Botswana,South Africa. Theresidence is used as adormitory for doctors,nurses, and medicalstudents who areconducting HIV researchand administeringtreatment. In 2011,Mallach was the recipientof Merrill Lynch’s Brady

Award, given to an employee worldwide whocontinually enhances the lives of theircolleagues, clients and communities in whichthey serve. Mallach spent much of his youthgrowing up in France, Germany and Englandand is a graduate of Troy University’sbusiness program.

“Mary Anne and David each have had greatprofessional success and we are extremelypleased to have them join a devoted team ofboard members,” President KathleenOwens, PhD, said. “We appreciate theircommitment to Gwynedd-Mercy Collegeand to our students.” �

IBC Foundation and Maguire Foundation Invest in Local Healthcare

NewTrustees Announced for 2012-2013

Two new members have joined Gwynedd-Mercy College’s Board of Trustees in2012-2013. Mary Anne Francisco ’66/’76 and David Mallach each bring a variety ofstrengths and experiences to the Board.

By: Teresa Harris

Colleges across thecountry are differentiatingthemselves through the adoption ofconvenient and economical car-sharing programs for students.Eliminating the need for a personal car at school helps reduceemissions and the amount of cars in campus parking lots.Gwynedd-Mercy College’s partnership with the UhaulCarShareSM

car rental program, launched in 2010, achieves all of thoseobjectives. Though the cars are located on GMC’s campus,UhaulCarShare is also available to the general public.

The hourly car-sharing program was introduced by Dr. CherylLynn Horsey, vice president for enrollment and student services atthe College.

“Initially, I was looking for a way to help and serve our students,”Dr. Horsey said. “Since the College is located in a suburban area,students don’t have as much access to public transportation assome do in the city. Providing them with an inexpensive andsustainable way to get around town with UhaulCarShare seemedlike a perfect fit,” she said.

Since most car sharing plans are located in major cities,Gwynedd-Mercy College is one of the few suburban colleges in thearea to offer such a program. A recent study by NorthcoastResearch Partners indicates that there is a 20-30 percent growth rateamong U.S. colleges that adopt car-sharing programs, making it amore mainstream transportation option. The survey was conductedamong 35 participating colleges across the nation. Dr. Horseyreports that the cars at GMC are rented almost daily while weekendrentals for other participating campuses are most popular.

Three easy steps put drivers behind the wheel of an insuredenergy efficient car—register, rent and drive. Rentals areself-accessed by registering online and by selecting theGwynedd Valley, Pa. location. There is a one-time fee of$25.00 and a low hourly rate starting at $4.95. Drivers pay asthey go with an additional $0.59 per mile, making it very

affordable for most.

A silver Nissan Cube and white Ford Focus are the two carsavailable in the GMC UhaulCarShare program. In addition tosuperb fuel efficiency, they also include MP3 plug-in capability tohelp personalize the driving experience. Once registration iscomplete, it can be a matter of hours before a user can punch intheir code on the car door and be in the driver’s seat.

“The Car Share program is a great thing to have here at GMC,”senior baseball player Justin Keith said. “It’s nice to know that if Ineed something for class or practice, the car is available. It is greatfor emergencies and very reliable.”

Anyone over 18 years of age with at least two years of drivingexperience may qualify. Car maintenance, insurance and gas arecovered in the rental price. In the event of a flat tire or accident,help can be obtained by calling the UhaulCarShare customerservice line.

“The ease and affordability of the UhaulCarShare program hashelped many students get to nursing clinicals, student teachingassignments and shop for personal items,” Dr. Horsey said. “I’msure there are local people who could also benefit from this serviceif they knew about it, so we are looking to expand our programcommunity-wide. Getting a couple of friends to share with you isfun and can cost as little as a dollar an hour,” she added.

For more information about the UHaulCarShare program log ontoUhaulCarShare.com or call 1-877-990-8227. Follow UHaulCarShareon Twitter @UhaulCarShare and Facebookwww.facebook.com/carsharing for discounts and updates. �

GMC Students

with Car Sharing

8 Today

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Conventional WisdomTwo Gwynedd-Mercy College students werethrust into the political frenzy that comes witha presidential election.

The 2012 Presidential Election was a decisive point in Americanpolitics. The delicate and essential vetting process leading up toit can also be an exhausting one. The long campaign trail makesa plethora of stops, the most significant being each majorcandidate’s convention. That’s where Gwynedd-Mercy Collegeseniors’ Dan Freed and Daniel Bencardino come in. The two wereable to witness and participate as the “wheels of democracy” werein motion. Freed traveled to Tampa, Fla. from Aug. 27-30 for theRepublican National Convention, while Bencardino was in Charlotte,

N.C. from Sept. 3-6 for the Democratic National Convention. Politicalideologies aside, this is what they learned.

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By: Dan Freed

When I was told I would be representing Gwynedd-Mercy Collegeat the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla., I wasprobably the happiest person on campus. I have always had aninterest in politics, mostly because both of my parents stayup-to-date with the political happenings in America. It was almosttoo exciting for me to handle because I had never flown on anairplane or even stayed at a hotel before.

When I arrived, The Washington Center—the institutionsponsoring an academic seminar that would lead up to theconvention—prepared a weeklong educational briefing forapproximately 140 students. We heard from a number of professors,local Florida politicians, and even Aaron Brown the CNN journalistwho covered the September 11th terrorist attacks.

By far the best part of my time in Tampa was the fieldworkassignment with the Pennsylvania Republican Party. Three otherstudents and I helped to prepare Pennsylvania’s appointed hotel forthe arrival of the delegates. Along with about a dozen other staffmembers, we assembled gift bags, prepared credentials, and stockedthe hotel hospitality suite with drinks and snacks. When the delegatesfinally did arrive, I’m pretty sure they were even more excited to bethere than the interns were. I was honestly nervous about meetingthem, but almost all of them were a lot of fun to be around.

I worked almost 14 or 15 hours a day for the delegation, making sureeveryone boarded the right bus and had the proper credentials. Wewere responsible for keeping things organized, and I tried to ensurethat everyone was content and comfortable. The other interns and Ididn’t do much sleeping that week, but it was completely worth it.

I was thrilled to be able to get into the convention each of the threenights it was held. We had been told that we might only get into theconvention one night, but to be able to attend all three nights wastruly special. I was able to see speakers Marco Rubio, Clint Eastwood,and Republican Presidential Nominee Mitt Romney. However, myfavorite memory of being inside the convention hall was when Iaccidentally walked into political analyst George Will and knockedhim into a wall. Now I can say that I literally bumped into a celebrity!

By: Daniel Bencardino

My experience at the Democratic National Convention can best bedescribed as eye-opening. From first arriving in Charlotte, N.C., tothe final night in the hotel, each day was a learning experience.Charlotte is a very beautiful city. Its metropolitan epicenter waspolished and spacious, as opposed to the streets of Philadelphiawhich I’m more accustomed to walking. The first week, during thelecture portion of my seminar experience, my time out of theclassroom was spent exploring the surprisingly artisticbusiness-oriented city. From the “Pride” festival on the day of myarrival, to the insights provided to me by tour guides from theUniversity of North Carolina, the city contained culture anddiversity between the suited businessmen and daily commuters.

The second week was a fast-paced and exciting exposure into theworld of politics. I worked with the Pennsylvania Democratic Party,and assisted with the travel, events, and registration needs of thedelegates who attended the convention. I was involved in sharinginformation, directing guests where to go, what to see, and whatpaperwork they needed to help their morning routine run assmoothly as possible. However, there was always something to testour patience and ability to adapt.

Whether it was protesters blocking the city’s public transportation,or finding our way around a motorcade at any given time, it was upto the team of interns and professionals to problem solve. At theend of the second week, I had slept approximately eight hours infive days, and I was incredibly exhausted. The late night events andearly morning meetings kept us busier than I’ve ever been, but inthe end the hard work was rewarding. The professionals organizingthe events came to trust me with important tasks like leadingbusses to pick-up points for the delegates, and eventually allowedme to sit with the delegation on the last day of the convention. I hada front row seat to see many of the speakers, and even had theopportunity to witness President Barack Obama’s speech live. Itwas tiring and often thankless work, but the payoff was theexperience and connections made by the virtue of mydetermination and skill. I’ll never forget my time in Charlotte, andthe countless memories made during my trip. �

Dan Freed (left) and Daniel Bencardino (right) appeared on CBS 3 to discuss their impressions of President Barack Obama and Mitt Romney after a presidential debate in October 2012.

10 Today Sports

All-American

Fleet-footed junior Brett Kubiak is a uniqueindividual—and not just because he’s achieved a program first for the cross country team.

By: Anthony Stipa

The Un

conventio

nal

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A twenty minute conversation with juniorcross country runner Brett Kubiak willleave you scratching your head. Therecently named All-American is a quirkycharacter, who doesn’t needacknowledgement to keep his legsconstantly churning. He’s never stoppedlong enough to reflect, or appreciate thefact that he’s the first Gwynedd-MercyCollege cross country athlete to earn sucha distinction.

But, don’t let a cavalier façade fool you;there’s a deep-seated competitivenesslurking inside of him. That’s why you’ll seehim, rain or shine, galloping throughparking lots and fields aroundcampus—because he hasn’t quite reachedhis destination.

“People have been saying it so much thatit’s been getting old,” Kubiak said. “Youcan’t ride on that forever. If you just thinkabout that the whole time, you’re not goingto think about reaching more goals.”

In the early days, running was just anescape from the ordinary, and a chance tochallenge his twin brother Joe—who alsoruns for the College. The two raced aroundafter watching a few too many Rockymovies, and decided to pursue crosscountry after just one year of running forThe Milton Hershey School in Hershey, Pa.

“I knew that Brett was really raw and hadn’tdone a lot of running,” men’s and women’scross country head coach Mike Dager said.“Mechanically Joe is better than Brett, his

form is better, he looks effortless, he’s justhad one injury after another,” Dager, whoalso coaches men’s and women’s track andfield, added.

Most professional distance runners areprogrammed to run anywhere from 80-100miles per week. Kubiak began his Griffincareer on a much stricter regimen,monitored by Dager who understood ittakes time to build a relentless motor.

When he elevated his strength andconditioning, Dager took off the “harness.”The results speak for themselves.

Last fall, Kubiak finished third duringNCAA Regionals held near DickinsonCollege in Carlisle, Pa., notching a time of25:26 in the 8,000-meter (approximately fivemiles). The mark earned him a trip to TerreHaute, Ind. for the 2012 NCAA Division IIINational Championships on Nov. 17, 2012.

Kubiak claims he’s never actually put on hisAll-American medal until posing for thispicture. Here he proudly displays it around hisneck, along with a plaque recognizing theimpressive feat.

12 Today

“It was lonely up there without the team,”Kubiak halfheartedly joked. “I’m used togoing to every single meet with the wholeteam. I hope that more people make it nextyear.”

Kubiak ended his cross country season33rd at Nationals, where he managed to runa personal best 25:03 in the 8,000-meter. Hecrossed the finish line just 37 seconds afterthe first place finisher.

“I didn’t have a sense of accomplishment, itwas weird,” Kubiak said. “All the hardwork, I was kind of expecting it. I was mad Ididn’t do better at Nationals.”

Runners don’t enjoy the luxury of anoffseason, and Kubiak—who owns fourprogram records with hisbrother—participates in indoor and outdoortrack and field as well. It’s the kind ofversatility that can be a coach’s dream, ornightmare. Kubiak wants to attempt thesteeplechase, an Olympic race that can

have dire consequences if approachedlackadaisically.

“If you hit a steeplechase barrier, yourseason could be over. I don’t think heunderstands that. You break your leg,”Dager said. “He’s good at anything he tries[but] it’s like driving a Ferrari down a dirtroad—not something you want to do.”

Kubiak’s philosophy is either the measureof a consummate team player or anobsessive superstition. He’s able to adjusthis body for any type of event.

“He just puts me in and I race,” Kubiaksuccinctly said.

This summer will be crucial if Kubiak wantsto reach his preliminary goals of winningNCAA Regionals and placing inside the topten at Nationals. Logging 10 miles per daywon’t cut it. Kubiak isn’t quite sure whathe’s capable of, but his coach has a prettygood idea.

“He’ll probably have every track record [atthe College],” Dager said. “He’s the lastperson to leave the training room every day.He’s dedicated to being the best he can be.”

Whether he’s chatting up an opposingrunner during a meet, or debating theeffects of “runner’s high,” Kubiak isn’tafraid to, as Dager puts it, “say some kind ofoff the wall things.” He is a successfulstudent who is scheduled to leaveGwynedd-Mercy College with a degree incomputer information science next year.Kubiak’s not exactly positive if aprofessional running career is in his future,but it can’t be ruled out. He has anunconventional, but effective, way offiguring these things out. �

Kubiak breaks away from the pack at the ColonialStates Athletic Conference Championships on Oct. 27,2012. Despite sloppy conditions, he would place firstoverall among 86 participants, propelling the team to achampionship in the process.

The tradition of honoring past athleticachievements continued on Sept. 29, 2012, assix new members were inducted into theGriffins’ Hall of Fame. The ceremony, whichtook place during Homecoming Weekend,was held at Julia Ball Auditorium. Recognizedfor the precedents they set, and legacies theyleft behind were Steve Troy ’02, Jenn(Kratowicz) Robinson ’04, Cindy (Hansen)Mumford ’04, Rachel (Pearson) Bodick ’00,Will Carter ’01, and Sue (Davis) Crathern ’83.

The “Lineup”:

Steve Troy specialized in shutting downopposing offenses, taking the mound for 182innings during his tenure on the baseballteam. He is the program’s all-time leader incomplete games (14) and lowest battingaverage against (.236). The four-year teamcaptain led the Griffins to the NCAATournament in 2000 and 2001, pitching amemorable 2-1 complete game win overElizabethtown College in the secondappearance. Troy was an all-conferenceselection in both 2001 and 2002.

Jenn Robinson was the volleyball team’scaptain for two seasons, earning

all-conference honors during three seasons.She ranked nationally in kills for all ofDivision III in 2002 and 2003, cementing areputation for tenacity and hard work. Off thecourt, she was a two-time Mid-Atlantic RegionAcademic All-American. She was known as arole model and team player to those who hadthe opportunity to compete with her.

In a record-setting four years, CindyMumford was part of women’s soccer’s firstever Pennsylvania Athletic Conference(PAC)* Championship and NCAATournament Qualifier in 2001. Her leadershipand reliability on defense produced threeconsecutive first team all-conferenceselections. The three-year captain was alsohonored for her work in the classroom,earning an Academic All-American Regionalaward in 2002 and 2003.

Rachel Bodick earned PAC All-Conferencehonors in four years as a Griffin, en route tobeing the fifth all-time leading scorer inwomen’s basketball history. A three-timeco-captain, she helped spearhead the team’sfirst ever conference championship in 1999,leading to an NCAA Tournament berth. Thefollowing season, she would be named the

PAC championship game MVP asGwynedd-Mercy College returned to theNCAA Tournament.

With 1,832 career points at Gwynedd-MercyCollege, Will Carter was an offensive machinefor the men’s basketball team. He led theprogram to their first ever PAC Championshipin 1999. Carter was a first team all-conferenceselection in 1999, 2000, and 2001, leading theGriffins in scoring during those seasons.

For four seasons, the success of thewomen’s basketball team hinged on SueCrathern, who led the Griffins in scoringduring each year of her career. Sheproduced 2,061 career points, finishing witha scoring average of 35 points per game. In1983, Crathern was selected to thePhiladelphia Daily News’ All-Area BasketballTeam. A memorable highlight was notchinga program record 56 points in a single game.

These six transcendent athletes will havetheir plaques displayed prominently in TheGriffin Complex next to previouslyenshrined hall of famers. �*PAC became the Colonial States AthleticConference in 2008.

SIX ALL-TIME GREATS RETURN TO GMCFOR ATHLETIC RECOGNITION

SIX ALL-TIME GREATS RETURN TO GMCFOR ATHLETIC RECOGNITION

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Men’s SoccerThe Griffins sputtered in the beginning ofthe season, but rebounded nicely toaccumulate momentum for a 2013campaign. A 2-2 draw against rival CabriniCollege on Oct. 3 marked a turning point inwhich the team would rattle off wins in fourof their next six games. Colonial StatesAthletic Conference Second Team honorswent to sophomore Ryan Roedel and juniorTrevor Sotell. Junior Dan Panepresso wasawarded an honorable mention, whilesenior Nick Stangler was voted to the CSACAll-Sportsmanship Team.

Women’s SoccerThe women’s soccer team made a surpriserun through the CSAC Playoffs as a fiveseed, knocking off top-seeded MarywoodUniversity in the semifinal to advance to thechampionship for the first time since the2001 season. The Griffins’ streak came toan end with a loss to Cabrini College in abattle of penalty kicks in the deciding game.It was a year of promise fulfilled for amaturing group of players. Five Griffinsearned CSAC Second Team recognition,including seniors Meghan Bojanowski andChristine Michalski, junior Maura Gifford,freshmen Keri Petroski and Jess Tadley.Senior Justine Bednarz earned anhonorable mention for her work ondefense. Leading the team in points wasGifford, who combined with her youngersister Megan for 42 total points.

Field HockeyThe celebration was twice as sweet for thefield hockey team, who won the CSACChampionship for the second straight year.A 13-5 record propelled the Griffins into thepostseason, where they steamrolledMarywood University in the semifinal andCabrini College in the title game,respectively. Two goals and an assistsecured the CSAC Tournament MVP forjunior Sarah Jackson, who also earned firstteam all-conference and all-regionacknowledgment. The win resulted in a tripto the NCAA Tournament, where the teamwould ultimately fall to ChristopherNewport University. Postseason accoladesalso went to seniors Kelsey Deveney, ErinGorenflo, junior Brianne Kline andsophomore Kelley Kruk, who were addedto the list of CSAC First Teamers. Secondteam credits went to junior Maria Karidas,and sophomore Brooke Oliver, whilejuniors Caitlin Donohue and BrittanyWilson received honorable mention.

VolleyballUnder first year head coach Tim Kilian, thevolleyball team had some expected growingpains. Still, they gelled with strong winsagainst Cheyney University (Sept. 18),Rosemont College (Sept. 29), and KeystoneCollege (Oct. 13). Senior Kristen Gamboneanchored a young squad, finishing first inteam assists and second in digs. She wasalso named to the CSAC All-SportsmanshipTeam. Junior Michelle Carrieri alsocompleted a strong season, finishing with ateam high 140 kills.

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Women’s TennisIt was an unusual finish to the Griffins’season, as they failed to win the CSAC crownfor the first time since 2007. They wereseeking to become the first team to ever winfive straight conference championships, butfell, 5-3, to Marywood University on Oct. 20.However, it was a remarkable campaign asthe team finished 14-2, even beating aDivision I school (La Salle University) in theregular season finale. Junior Rachel Feincontinued to make an impression, surpassing100 wins for the program, and becoming theCSAC Women’s Tennis Player of the Year.Conference awards also went to seniorChelsea Jones, junior Kellie Booth, andsophomore Gabby Muller, who took homefirst team honors along with Fein.

Men’s Cross CountryFor the fifth straight year, the men’s teamran through the CSAC, winning the titleand advancing to NCAA Regionals. SeniorBrett Kubiak outpaced everyone with a26:46 time in the 8,000-meter, winning theindividual title. Senior Tyler Rooke, juniorJoe Kubiak, and sophomore Joe Joiec alsoautomatically nabbed first teamall-conference honors by finishing in the topseven. The team would go on to finish 11thout of 49 teams at regionals, with BrettKubiak finishing 33rd overall andcementing himself as the College’s firstever cross country All-American.

Women’s Cross CountryThe Griffins set the tone early in the seasonwith a third place finish in the CSACPreview Meet at Marywood University onSept. 1. They would continue to improvethroughout the fall with another third placefinish at the Elizabethtown CollegeInvitational on Oct. 20. In the CSACChampionships, the women placed second,qualifying for NCAA Regionals. SophomoreChristina Smith was awarded first teamall-conference honors for finishing seventhoverall, with fellow sophomore HollyMcGarrity earning second team accoladesfor finishing ninth overall.

FALLSEASON WRAP-UP

Many people have traveled to third world Caribbean countries to enjoy thespacious beaches, tropical climate, and exotic cultures. However, other thana ride from the airport to the resort, the extreme poverty that engulfs thepopulation is often overlooked. Finding clean drinking water and modernmedical care are daily struggles. It’s something that Britany Smith ’08understands, and she’s been living secluded in Haiti without easilyaccessible amenities since November 2012.

At the age of 13, Smith acquired a taste for service when she traveled toRomania to visit her aunt and uncle, who are missionaries there. Years later,it was only fitting that she found solace during Gwynedd-Mercy CollegeAlternative Spring Break trips to Ohio, New York City, and Texas. Smithearned an associate of science in nursing, and completed a bachelor’s ofscience in nursing at Drexel University. The degrees and extracurricularinvolvement parlayed into a job in the Adult Oncology Unit at AbingtonMemorial Hospital in Abington, Pa. She eventually transfered to DukeUniversity Hospital in Durham, N.C. to work in a similar division, and gainfurther experience. It was there that she voluntarily joined NewhopeChurch and the Hope Missions Team, first establishing a relationship withHaiti during a mission trip in early 2012.

Bohoc, Haiti provided Smith with a personal education and endearingconnection to the people of a small, but proud independent nation. A bondwas formed during her weeklong visit, and Smith immediately realized herwork was far from finished. It took only a few months of searching beforeshe found a full-time registered nurse position with an organization called

A Dose of Haitian Hospitality

By: Anthony Stipa & Britany Smith ’08

Britany Smith ’08 is

providing care to the

children of Haiti, a

fulfilling and challenging

endeavor she

depicts in an

online blog.

Britany always has her hands full around the office, caring and nurturing for children whohave been neglected or even orphaned.

�

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God’s Littlest Angels, Inc. (GLA). The non-profit, founded in 1994, is anursery and toddler house in the Kenscoff Mountains, towering above thecapital city of Port-au-Prince. The goal is to provide care, shelter and propernourishment for premature newborns and children who would otherwisebattle to sustain health and well-being.

Smith uses her training to watch over the neonatal intensive care unit, aswell as the main house nursery. Duties include coordinating vaccinationschedules, taking inventory of pharmaceuticals and supplies, treatingcommon cold ailments, and traveling to outlying clinics to transport sickchildren. Smith teams with the nursing staff to manage these various tasks,but everyone overlaps and collaborates when necessary. At a child’sbirthday party, Smith even baked cupcakes and helped to facilitate theevent. It’s not always glamorous, and the workload can be overwhelming,but nursing a debilitated infant to full strength is an incomparable reward.

Smith does have internet capabilities, and runs a blog from her locationtitled, “Love. Serve. Inspire.” It paints a portrait of her daily routine and thecommon interactions she has with patients and other community members.In a post dated February 16, 2013, “Progress—From Survive to Thrive,” shedetails an aforementioned scenario with two babies teetering between lifeand death. The names have been changed to preserve their anonymity. Thefollowing is an excerpt.

“Paul is a seven-month-old baby boy who first came to us in late December.All of the GLA staff worked together to get him to a healthy weight of 8lbs5.5oz. Five days after he left, he came back to us...because he had diarrheaand vomiting while he was back with his mama. Mama fed him one meal ofboiled plantains that he vomited and then she had not fed him again. Onarrival January 30th, his weight had dropped to 7lbs 3.5oz. (Yes, more thana pound in 5 days). Now, February 16th he is gradually gaining weight andis at 8lbs 4oz. Thankfully, he is becoming the happy baby we had seenglimpses of before.

Chris was also referred to us by [a relief organization]. Mom says he’s one,but he is a big boy…length wise! Mother has breast fed him his entire life.However long that is, we still do not know. Chris is such a sweet boy and hissmile has captured my heart. We have been practicing standing and tryingto gain muscle strength in his arms, legs and back. When he came to us hecouldn’t bear weight at all; I know it doesn’t seem long but he is able tostand for 15 seconds while holding on to the edge of the crib. He just needshelp to stand himself up! Chris was 17lbs 4 oz. on arrival January 30th andhe is now up to 18lbs thanks to “Medical Mamba” (protein enriched peanutbutter), love from his nannies, nurses, volunteers, staff here at GLA and God.

Paul and Chris are two very special little boys. They continue to need a lotof extra attention, love, support and physical therapy. Both of them arecurrently at GLA for assistance and will eventually return to their families.Please pray for them as they continue to grow and learn how to thrive, notjust survive.”

To follow Smith’s progress, you can visit the site loveserveinspire.com. Sheupdates frequently, and has no timetable for her return to the United States.�

Work can be difficult, but picturesque sceneslike this accompany short walks after the dayis complete. The God’s Littlest Angels’ facilityis in the Kenscoff Mountains, above thecapital city of Port-au-Prince.

The God’s Littlest Angels’ main house canaccommodate approximately 75 childrenranging from infants to three-year-olds. Britanylives, works and blogs from this complex.

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Nancy Grzesik ’70 is not your typical Chief Financial and Operating Officer; she is the CFO and COOof Brevard Zoo in Melbourne, Fla., which coincidentally is not your typical zoo.

Nancy and her husband, Ben, “retired” to Melbourne in 2005 for the warmer climate. However,retirement got “real old, real fast” and five months after their move Nancy happened to notice a“CFO Wanted” advertisement in the newspaper for the zoo, a few minutes from their home.

It was fate that brought her to Brevard Zoo. Nancy, who graduated with a degree in business education,personifies the sense of community and Mercy values that the College strives to instill in students. Her valuesshine through when she talks about her work at the zoo and the relationships she has with the people withwhom she works. It is apparent that Brevard Zoo and Nancy Grzesik were compatible from the verybeginning; she was hired because of her chemistry with the people at the zoo and was actually interviewedby the people who would later be reporting to her.

By: Shani Berler

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The Brevard Zoo embodies community,something that Nancy is familiar with. Ithas been billed as “The World’s LargestVolunteer Community Build” with over16,000 volunteers that shared a dream tohave a zoo in their backyard. Thepersonalized bricks in the entrance and

along the pathsof the zoo

were

decorated by and represent each volunteer.In fact, the zoo still has a pool of over 350volunteers that regularly help out at the zooand love being there.

One would not rush to the conclusion thatthe duties of a CFO and COO are exactly“fun,” but Nancy can’t help but love her job.Working with people that are alsopassionate about their work, makes it apleasure to “clock in” every day.

Nancy sums up her responsibilities bydescribing them as all of the financial andrisk management aspects of the zoooperations along with assisting in strategicplanning and forecasting, but thisdescription does not justify Nancy’sobligations or those that she elects to takeon. She has taken initiative on many frontsand as a result, these daysfilled with “typicalCFO/COO duties” haveproven to be rewarding,evidenced by the zoo’simmense expansion duringthe past eight years. In 2005,there were 70 employees andpresently there are nearly 170 totend to zoo operations. When youhave 600 animals of 140 species, youcan use a lot of extra hands.

Despiteremarkableaccomplishmentsfrom behind herdesk, Nancy prefers thebusy days. “We do what wehave to do to get the job done,”Nancy said. When her staff callsfor help you can find her anywhere —from helping with ticket sales at thegate, behind the register at the snackshack, helping cook, or doing the dishes tohelp the housekeeping crew. Nancy enjoysworking alongside her staff since thisenables her to know what those that reportto her do on a daily basis, and as a result,she can make sure they have what theyneed to do their jobs tothe best of theirability. Nancy’s

20 Today

compassion for her staff is as evident as isher love for the zoo.

About once a month, Nancy serves as theSaturday “manager on duty.” This isanother day she loves because she gets toroam the zoo and interact with peoplerather than work in her office. The morningbegins with a stroll to make sure the zoo isready to welcome guests for the day. Shemakes sure everything is intact to ensurethe visitors are going to have a memorabletime visiting the zoo. How could they not?This zoo offers something for people of allages and the experience goes beyond justseeing animals.

Each exhibit at Brevard Zoo is unique.Expedition Africa features more than justAfrican wildlife; guests are able to get upclose and personal with the giraffes, kayakdown the Nyami Nyami River where they

will float past primates, antelopes and otheranimals, and even participate in anencounter with a rhinoceros. The Cape toCairo Express train ride travels through the“Australasia” (Australia and Asia) loop,which also has a free flight aviary wherevisitors can feed birdseed sticks to thecockatiels or nectar to the parrots. LaSelvais like a walk through the jungle and theWild Florida exhibit is the place to see250-pound crocodiles, tour the restoredwetlands in a paddle boat and to visit thenewly added “Art of Sand” exhibit.

Adventure is everywhere at the zoo, but themain attraction for those looking for anexciting way to experience nature isTreetop Trek. Comprised of tightropes,jungle bridges, crab walks, nets and ziplines, this is the best way to tour the zoofrom above. Whether you’re flying over thealligators or trekking across the bridge with

the monkeys nearby, there are great thrillsfor people of all ages. Paws on Play is yetanother fun area in the zoo for kids to playin the water on hot summer days, wherethey can experience pitching a tent and peta variety of animals.

Fun at the zoo also comes in the form ofeducation, which is important to Nancy, asshe has been an adjunct associate professorfor the University of Maryland, UniversityPark since 1999. She continues to teachaccounting for the University through avirtual classroom. The zoo has excitingclassrooms on the grounds such as thetreetop classroom and a cave classroom.Teachers are invited to come teach their

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www.MERVsAlumniConnection.comfor more pictures from our visitwith Nancy at Brevard Zoo.

Check out

classes at the zoo for six to eight weeksrather than in the traditional classroomsetting. During this time the kids report tothe zoo everyday and teachers takeadvantage of all of its features to teach all ofthe subjects to their students. The gift shopis the perfect setting for a great lesson inmathematics and the animals are ideal forbiology classes.

The Wildlife Detective Training Academyprovides another area for learning. Kidsinteract with animals, solve mysteries andcan watch live videos streaming from theanimal hospital on the premises whereregular procedures are performed to carefor the animals.

The Brevard Zoo is much more than a placeto see animals; it is a conservation hub thatprovides people with a place to learn aboutand interact with the species that we shareour planet with in the most exciting wayspossible. The zoo is a “dream come true”for the Brevard County community. While itbegan with the vision of a small group ofpeople, a community came together tomake it a reality, and a dedicated team ofemployees and volunteers has helped itflourish in unimaginable ways.

Like anywhere else, there are tough days atwork, but Nancy is in the ideal place tounwind when she needs to step away fromthe office. She enjoys walking around thezoo, visiting with the animals (especiallyfeeding the giraffes!) and loves kayaking.The opportunity to see a baby giraffe two

hours after it was born is not somethingmany people get to experience, but it isanother perk of being a member of theteam at the zoo.

Retirement – for real this time! – is not onNancy’s mind at the moment. She islooking forward to the exciting projects onthe horizon and celebrating the zoo’s 20thanniversary next year. Nancy is humbleabout her role and contributions to thezoo’s evolution, but it is obvious her eightyear investment will have a lasting and farreaching impact on Brevard Zoo. �

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Updates from the Office of Alumni Relations

1. Students, faculty and staff gathered to sign the finalbeam placed in the frame of the newest academicbuilding that will be home to the School of Businessand School of Education. 2. All Alumni Reunion atHomecoming 2012. 3. Alumni gathered for anafternoon at Citizens Bank Park on June 24, 2012.Following a reception at McFadden’s, everyoneenjoyed listening to the Voices of Gwynedd singing thenational anthem before the game. 4. GMC hosted analumni reception at the shore on July 21, 2012 inAvalon, N.J. at the Golden Inn Hotel & Resort. 5.Alumnae gathered at the College for their 25th and50th reunions. 6,7&8. Dr. Owens was on the road inFlorida during the week of February 11, 2013 hostingalumni receptions in St. Petersburg, Naples, WestPalm Beach and Vero Beach. Alumni had a great timemingling and reminiscing.

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Upcoming Alumni Events:June 1, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . GMC at the Phillies*

July 20, 2013 . . . . . . . . . . GMC Down the Shore – Sea Isle, N.J.*

September 27-29, 2013 . . . Homecoming

October 20, 2013 . . . . . . . 25th & 50th ReunionCelebrating the Classes of 1988 and 1963

*Register online at www.gmc.edu/alumni/events.php

Dear Alumni,The Office of Alumni Relations has been reaching out andproviding more opportunities for our alumni and friends tointeract with students and stay connected.

In the last year, the Office has worked with the Alumni Boardto support student programming; worked with Career Servicesto organize student/alumni networking events; held receptionsduring Homecoming; held the 25th & 50th Class Reunion;honored Distinguished Alumni; traveled to the New JerseyShore for an alumni reception; met alumni in Boston, Mass.;worked with several athletic teams to bring alumni back; and,just recently held alumni events in St. Petersburg, Naples, WestPalm Beach and Vero Beach, Fla.

To stay in touch, check out the alumni webpage for upcomingevents (www.gmc.edu/alumni) and please follow us on Facebook,Twitter, LinkedIn and MERV’s Alumni Connection (accessavailable from the website). You can also stay in touch by updatingyour contact information either by calling the Alumni Office orcompleting the update form on the alumni webpage so that wecan communicate upcoming alumni events and opportunities.

Feel free to share your ideas on ways to stay connected andevents and programs that would be of interest to you andother Gwynedd-Mercy College alumni.

It has been a pleasure serving you and I look forward to themany exciting opportunities ahead.

Gianna F. Quinn, Director of Alumni Relations215-641-5554, alumni@gmc.edu

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24 Today Class Notes

1950Janet Allen, of Ormond Beach, Fla., wantedto say “Hi” to her graduating class. Friends arewelcome to come visit her and her husband.

1951Eleanor Eason, of Ocean City, N.J., is veryproud of her daughters and all of theiraccomplishments.

1959Mary LaRouech, of Calabash, N.C., missesall of her 1958 and 1959 classmates and isenjoying the weather in North Carolina.

1962Pat Holmbeck, of West Chester, Pa., recentlymoved back to Pennsylvania from Florida. Sheis enjoying time with her eight grandchildren.

1968Patricia Bruce, of Lansdale, Pa., attendedthe Gwynedd-Mercy College study abroadtrip to London and Paris with her husband.The trip was sponsored by the English andbusiness departments.

1970Mary Elena Ziccardi, from Voorhees,N.J., is currently in her 18th year workingat the Medical Office of Allied Health atCamden County Technical School. She ismarried with 3 children and 8 grandchildren.

1972Cathy Kreitzer, of Crownsville, Md., is anurse manager at Johns Hopkins Hospitalin Baltimore, Md.

1981Anita Timmins, of Gilbertsville, Pa.,worked for Johnson & Johnson for 20 yearsand Boiron Homeopathics for five years.She is also a grandmother of four.

1986Rebecca Bryan, ’84/’86, of Cherry Hill,N.J., works at The Wellness Center UrbanMinistries in Camden, N.J., which is anorganization she founded.

1966Nanette Sciolla Carney, of North Wales, Pa.

While in school, Nanette played fieldhockey and organized the “after parties”following school dances. She learnedthrough her family to be accountable, andthat a belief in God, the Sisters of Mercy,and education would grant her thecredentials for meeting the challenges offinding a job.

After graduating with a business degree,Nanette had a successful career working inadministration at the IBM Corporation, andlater left the corporate world to raise afamily of seven children. In 1992, Nanetteand her husband, John, decided to takecharge of their destiny and start their owncompany, The Carney Group. Theirrecruitment and placement firm helpsindividuals stay marketable through thedecades of their lives. The Carney Groupcan provide staffing utilizing all the hiringstrategies that companies need in today’smarketplace: consulting, direct hire andtemporary in the corporate sector. Inaddition, they champion those individualslooking to establish themselves in secondand third careers.

The Carney Group is located in Blue Bell,Pa., and their reputation has grown by leapsand bounds over the last 20 years, as theypride themselves on integrity and care fortheir clients. The company services the

Greater Philadelphia region and placescandidates in positions nationally. In the pastyear, Nanette’s dedication to her clients wasrecognized as she was named to a list ofPhiladelphia Business Journal’s Women ofDistinction 2012, as well as winner ofSmartCEO’s 2012 Brava! Award. The twovery prestigious awards are annuallybestowed on enterprising women in thePhiladelphia area. The Carney Group wasalso named to Philadelphia BusinessJournal’s Philly 100, the top locally-growingbusinesses.

In addition to her accolades, Nanette serveson the Gwynedd-Mercy College AlumniBoard and is a Distinguished Alumni Awardrecipient. She also is a member of MountSaint Joseph’s Academy Board of Directors,the Penn Suburban Chamber of Commerce,the chair and founding member of the NorthPenn Chamber of Commerce Women’sNetwork, and is a committee member of theSociety of Professional Women.

Class Notes

1974Dr. Veronica Hilyard, of University City, Mo.

Veronica came to Gwynedd-Mercy Collegeas a Sister of Mercy. While at GMC, sheloved the ideals of kindness, service,intelligence, spirituality, and hospitality thatwere passed down by Catherine McAuley.

Veronica always knew that she wanted acareer in education, graduating with abachelor’s of science in elementaryeducation. Throughout her career, shepracticed the philosophy of lifelonglearning. Veronica obtained a master’sdegree in gifted and talented education anda doctorate in educational leadership. Usingher education, Veronica worked as anelementary and middle school teacher,teacher of gifted and talented children, aprincipal, curriculum coordinator, directorand superintendent of schools.

Veronica is married to Harley Smith, aretired attorney. She is the mother ofChristopher H. Paquet and thegrandmother of William (age five).

After retiring in 2008, Veronica began tolook for a creative outlet for her singing,acting and dancing skills, while helpingothers. The Cameo Club of Missouri offeredjust that, but to join she had to participate intheir pageant in July 2012. Singing “O MioBabbino Caro,” a Puccini aria, she won thetitle of Ms. Senior Missouri. As a result,Veronica qualified for the national Ms.Senior America pageant in Atlantic City, N.J.in October 2012, placing in the “Top Ten.”As Ms. Missouri Senior America, Veronicavisits various venues across the stateincluding senior centers, women’s groups,conferences, and conventions. She speaks to‘women of elegance’ and shares talents andstories with all. Veronica sang forlawmakers in Jefferson City, Mo. and judgeddance contests at the state fair.

Away from her duties as Ms. Senior Missouri,Veronica enjoys spending time with herhusband, son and grandson. She teaches asan adjunct professor at Maryville Universityin St. Louis and serves as the chairperson forthe School of Education’s Leadership Council.Veronica is also a vocal advocate for giftedand talented children speaking on issues atlocal, state and national conferences.

2000Helen Kluver, of Philadelphia, Pa.,finished her master’s degree in educationand structural systems at Penn State GreatValley in December 2012.

2005Susan James, of Black River, N.Y., hasbeen working for the Mercy VolunteerCorps since September 2012.

Cara Knaster, of Gilbertsville, Pa., recentlycompleted her doctoral degree in clinicalpsychology at Chestnut Hill College. She isalso working toward state licensure inpsychology.

2008Kalik Booker, of Philadelphia, Pa., beganworking at the DC Preparatory Academy inWashington D.C. in August 2012.

John Zatlokovicz, of Dover, Del., ispursuing a master’s degree in mechanicalengineering.

Gwynedd-Mercy College invites you to attend an

Alumni Reception at the ShoreSaturday, July 20, 2013 2 - 5 p.m.

The Springfield Inn43rd Street & Pleasure Avenue

Sea Isle City, NJ 08243Tickets are $30 per person and include

open bar and light food

Online Registration is available at www.gmc.edu/alumni/events.php

Contact Shae Berler at 267-448-1345 or berler.s@gmc.edu for questions

or to register by phone.

26 Today

1983Mary Ellen Smith Glasgow, of Pittsburgh, Pa.

Mary Ellen was named dean at DuquesneUniversity’s School of Nursing in August2012. Prior to this appointment, sheestablished herself as a premier teacherand healthcare professional in thePhiladelphia region.

A long list of acronyms are nowaccompanying her name, PhD, RN,

ACNS-BC, but Mary Ellen began her careerwith a BSN from Gwynedd-Mercy College.She completed a MSN from VillanovaUniversity in 1987, and followed with a PhDfrom Duquesne University in 2002.Additional graduate course work wascompleted at The Catholic University ofAmerica in Washington D.C.

Mary Ellen spent many years working atHahnemann University Hospital, eventuallyswitching to the teaching andadministrative side. The hospital wouldeventually become associated with DrexelUniversity, where she would thrive in theCollege of Nursing and Health Professions.

As associate dean for nursing,undergraduate health professions, andcontinuing nursing education, shespearheaded numerous initiatives,including the development of the school’sBSN Co-op Program, BSN AcceleratedCareer Entry Program, and the RN-BSN

Online Program. Mary Ellen believes inexposing students to real-world settings,placing them in hospitals and other sitesacross the region before they graduate. Sheis also an advocate of technology and itssignificance in the medical world.

In 2010, Mary Ellen received the VillanovaUniversity College of Nursing AlumniMedallion for Distinguished Contribution toNursing Education. In 2011 and 2012 shewas the recipient of American Journal ofNursing’s Book of the Year Award forco-authoring the books: Role Development forDoctoral Advanced Nursing Practice, andLegal Issues Confronting Today’s NursingFaculty: A Case Study Approach, respectively.

Mary Ellen appreciates the ability to shapethe future of nursing, and has set forth aplan to make Duquesne University one ofthe “most innovative Catholic schools fornursing in the country.”

The Griffin is a literary journal sponsored by Gwynedd-Mercy College. Its mission is toenrich society by nurturing and promoting creative writing that demonstrates a uniqueand intelligent voice. We seek writing which accurately embodies or reflects thehuman condition with all its intellectual, emotional, and ethical challenges. Like themythical griffin, a constructed creature of fearless strength and courage, we preferformed works rather than experimental ones.

Manuscripts of literary works—poetry, short stories, short plays, reflections—areaccepted for consideration for publication throughout the year. The Griffin is publishedonce a year in the fall.

To view the most recent edition and past issues of The Griffin please visit our Web site atgmc.edu/publications.php. Or, if you are interested in submitting your literary works forconsideration in The Griffin, go to gmc.edu/students/clubsorganizations/thegriffin.phpfor the guidelines.

Cover art: After a Master Project/Van Gogh by Katherine Coughlin ’13

2009Ruth McDevitt, of North Wales, Pa.,recently completed her Master ofEducation at Cabrini College.

2010Noreen McDonough, of Philadelphia, Pa.,was promoted to accounts payablecoordinator at Arcadia University, TheCollege of Global Studies.

2011Melissa Smith, of Oreland, Pa., is workingas an autistic support teacher at The NexusSchool in Huntingdon Valley, Pa.

Aracely Thornton, ’09/’11, of Philadelphia,Pa., celebrated her son’s marriage on Sept.29, 2012 and recently welcomed a newgranddaughter.

2012Amelia Garris, of Narragansett, R.I., istraveling to Chile next month and will beteaching English there for nine months.She will be doing this through the EnglishOpens Doors Program with BridgeTEFL.

Amanda Price, ’11/’12, of SchuylkillHaven, Pa, was recently hired as a laborand delivery nurse at the Reading Hospitaland Medical Center in West Reading, Pa.

Steve Rufe of Schwenksville, Pa., is attendinggraduate school at Columbia University.

Stefanie Baehr ’08, of Warminster, Pa.,married James Wood ’07 on June 2, 2012.Pictured in the wedding party were threeadditional alums: Kalik Booker ’08, RobertNonemacker ’08, and Karin (Kovacik)Gaittens ’08.

Sean Camburn ’12, of Lansdale, Pa.,married Katherine Skrzat on October 12,2012.

Mai Vy DeJoseph ’04/’05, ofWynnewood, Pa., married TerrenceAlexander on June 9, 2012.

Rebecca Dise ’12 and Jared Morgan ’12,of Pipersville, Pa., were engaged on May 16th,2012 at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla.

Jenna Gore ’11, of Upper Gwynedd, Pa., isengaged to Michael Schenk. A winterwedding is planned.

Tim Mumford ’10, of Norristown, Pa., isengaged to Annalisa Valerio. An Oct. 14,2013 wedding is planned.

Theresa Marie Ward ’08, of Delanco,N.J., is engaged to be married to ThomasM. Lenza on April 27, 2013.

Congratulations!Engagements, Marriages

and Anniversaries

Stefanie Baehr ’08 and James Wood ’07

Tim Mumford ’10and AnnalisaValerio

Today 27

We want to hear from you!Whether it’s a marriage announcement,newborn baby or exciting professional news,let us know! We’d love to hear all of yourlife’s milestones.

Submit your information (along withgraduation year) and a photo to be includedwithin one of the next two Todaymagazines.High resolution images are preferred.

E-mail stipa.a@gmc.edu or call 267-448-1410.

We strive to be as accurate as possible, so ifthere is an error or omission please contact us.

Connect with GMC Alumni Online

/GwyneddMercyAlumniFeaturing: Trivia Tuesday

@GMCin140

Group: Gwynedd-Mercy College Alumni

www.mervsalumniconnection.com

OCTOBER 20, 2013

Upcoming Reunions

BLOG

Celebrating the Classes of 1988 and 1963

Congratulations!Griffin Babies

Ashley (Heilman) Bilotti ’03, ofHarleysville, Pa., a son, Octavian JosephBilotti, on Dec. 12, 2012. His older sisterJasmine was born on Dec. 12, 2010.

Jenna (Meehan) Klaus ’07, of Pottstown,Pa., a daughter, Beth Helen, on July 26, 2012.

Christine Perry ’03/’05, of Penns Grove,N.J., a daughter, Alana Christine Smith, onMay 19, 2012.

Tara Manco ’08, of Hatboro, Pa., adaughter, Claira Marie, on December 24,2012.

Donna Capone-Masci ’98/’04, ofPlymouth Meeting, Pa., a daughter,Morgan, on March 7, 2012.

Tiffany Salomon ’07/’08, of Pipersville,Pa., had her first child in early 2013.

Gina (Ferriola) Smith ’05, of Secane, Pa.,a son, Tyler James, on June 30, 2012.

Alana ChristineSmith, daughterof Christine Perry’03/’05

Octavian Joseph Bilotti and older sister Jasmine,son and daughter of Ashley (Heilman) Bilotti ’03

Beth Helen, daughter of Jenna (Meehan) Klaus ’07

Claira Marie,daughter of TaraManco ’08

Morgan, daughter of Donna Capone-Masci ’98/’04

Tyler James, sonof Gina (Ferriola)Smith ’05

While the Annual Fund supports nearly every facet of our campus, it also directly impacts ourstudents. It provides the scholarship funds they need to cultivate a lifelong enthusiasm forlearning in an unparalleled collegiate setting.

Just last year, the College granted $14 million in scholarships, making it possible for more than 92percent of our students to gain the best academic and practical experience and successfully followtheir desired career paths.

Today’s Gwynedd-Mercy students are inspired by you. Your contribution to the Annual Fund,no matter the size, makes an important difference.

Support Gwynedd-Mercy College students with a gift to the 2012-2013 Annual Fund today.

BRIGHTFUTURES

Inspired by You215-641-5550 ¥

Today 29

Feel Secure in Your Retirement Years

Would you like to make a significant gift to GMC but

you’re hesitant because you need more income now?

If so, we have a solution for you: a charitable gift

annuity. With a CGA you receive fixed payments for

life, take a partial current income tax deduction and

have the satisfaction of supporting GMC.

To find out your possible CGA benefits,

contact Jill Dow at dow.j@gmc.edu

or 215-542-4661 or visit gmc.edu/giving/

and use our planned giving calculators.

In MemoriamJoanne Groller ’96, of Harleysville, Pa.,passed away on January 7, 2013.

Samantha Hobson ’11, of Conshohocken,Pa., passed away on December 24, 2012.

Maryann E. Hughes ’80, of Clayton, N.J.,passed away on December 13, 2012.

Francis Kobialka ’85, of King of Prussia,Pa., passed away on December 1, 2011.

Kristy Jo Kelleher, of Brookhaven, Pa.,passed away on July 5, 2012.

Meredith Linde ’78, of BroadAxe, Pa., passed away onSeptember 11, 2012.

Sister Patricia Lynch ’84, of Aston, Pa.,passed away on July 16, 2011.

Lenore Repsher ’62, of Easton, Pa.,passed away on April 18, 2011.

Lucy Robertson ’98, ofWashington Crossing, Pa. passedaway on August 27, 2012.

Linda Stojanovich ’78, of Eagleville, Pa.,passed away on January 11, 2012.

Maureen Worthington ’82, of Levittown,Pa., passed away on January 4, 2013.

30 Today

Each year, Gwynedd-Mercy College selectsa handful of deserving recipients for theDistinguished Alumni Award. With morethan 17,000 hardworking alumni to choosefrom, it’s no easy chore. The College’shighest alumni award acknowledges theachievements of outstanding individualswhose personal lives, professional successand community service match the objectivesof their alma mater. Earning the distinctionin 2012 were seven deserving individuals.

• Christine Winterer Ryan ’62 has beena member of the College’s President’sCouncil since 1986. For 38 years, she hasbeen a relentless pioneer in the realestate business, currently working atPrudential Fox and Roach Realtors. Ryanis also on the Montgomery County, Pa.Board of Realtors, and a member at St.Anthony’s Church in Ambler, Pa.

• Helen Nelson ’92/’93 was recentlyawarded the “Plus ratio quam vis” medalfrom Jagiellonian University in Poland. Theillustrious honor was previously awarded torecipients such as Pope John Paul II.Nelson’s foundation, the CopernicusSociety of America, works to buildrelationships between students in Polandand the United States, sponsoring tripsboth east and west of the Atlantic Ocean.

• Dr. David Bernard ’84 and wifeChristine Bernard ’83 have combinedscience and mathematics into successfulcareers in medicine and teaching,respectively. Dr. Bernard is currently theMedical Director of Clinical Pathology atthe Methodist Hospital ResearchInstitute, which is in Houston, Texas.Christine is a calculus teacher at TravisHigh School, in Richmond, Texas, whospends time as a co-advisor of TheNational Honor Society program.

• Maria Foley ’73 has spent 40 yearsteaching in the Catholic school system,the last 35 at the St. Genevieve School inFlourtown, Pa. She has establishedextracurricular initiatives such asstudent council, a science fair, and theschool’s C.A.R.E.S. program. Foley alsoserves as a lector and a EucharisticMinister at parish liturgies.

• Eileen Foley Guest ’68 has beenteaching English and advanced placementhonors courses at Abington High Schoolfor 25 years. During this time, Guest ledthe school’s National Merit Society,volunteered as assistant tennis coach, andsponsored the literary magazine, TheSpectere. She also earned a master’s degreein English from Villanova University.

• Donald Hooten, Jr. ’04 founded theTaylor Hooten Foundation in 2004, tocommemorate the life of his brother, andto raise awareness of the effects ofsteroid abuse. Before committingfull-time to the foundation, Hooten led asuccessful career in both real estate andthe mortgage industry.

The Anne Fitzpatrick Murray AlumniAward for Distinguished Service isreserved for a person who has madesignificant public service contributions bysharing or volunteering his or her talent,time and resources in the spirit of Mercy.This year’s recipient was The ReverendDr. Herbert H. Lusk, II ’87, who duringhis football career with the PhiladelphiaEagles in the 1970s found a higher calling.He is currently the pastor of the GreaterExodus Baptist Church in NorthPhiladelphia, and has a firm presence inlocal charities. Rev. Dr. Lusk participates inHabitat for Humanity, NBC10’s CorporateAlliance, and even established thenon-profit organization People for People,Incorporated, to help the poverty-stricken.

(Left to right) Maria Foley ’73, Reverend Dr. Herbert H.Lusk, II ’87, Helen Nelson ’92/’93, Donald Hooten, Jr. ’04,GMC President Kathleen Owens, PhD and Eileen FoleyGuest ’68

Distinguished Alumni Awards 2012

Today 31

Homecoming 2013

More information coming soon on Homecoming activitiesand events. Be sure to check the alumni website for moreinformation: www.gmc.edu/alumni/events.php

Questions? Contact the Office of Alumni Relations,215-641-5554

SAVE THE DATESeptember 27-29, 2013

32 Today

Where’s MERV?Our adventurous mascot MERV has been getting his passport stamped andracking up frequent flier miles traveling to great places with our alumni, facultyand staff over the last year. He has toured Seattle, cruised Alaska, vacationed inthe Bahamas and Bermuda, visited monuments like the White House inWashington, DC and King Neptune on the boardwalk in Virginia Beach, and hehas been spotted in some local “hot spots” like the Philadelphia Zoo anddown at the Jersey Shore in the summertime.

Where will MERV pop up next? Well, that is up to you! Show everyone yourGriffin pride by taking pictures of MERV wherever you go!

It’s simple…

Cutout the MERV on the adjacent page (you can also printmore cutouts online at www.MERVsAlumniConnection.com/wheres-merv.html).

Take a few pictures of MERV…Take some pictures withMERV… Be creative! Whether it is in your backyard, at asporting event, wedding, on vacation or wherever, justhave fun and strike a pose!

SHARE your fun photos with fellow alumni. You canemail your photos to alumni@gmc.edu (be sure totell us who you are!), post your photos directly onour GMC Alumni Facebook page atwww.Facebook.com/GwyneddMercyAlumni, or‘tweet’ us your pictures @GMCin140 on Twitter.

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Office of Institutional Advancement1325 Sumneytown PikeP.O. Box 901Gwynedd Valley, PA 19437-0901

Non-ProfitOrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDLansdale, PAPermit No. 444

Join GMC alumni for a tailgate party at McFadden’sRestaurant and a game at Citizen’s Bank Park.

Tickets are $50 each and include food and unlimited beer andwine at McFadden’s tailgate party from 2-4 p.m., andentrance to the 4:05 p.m. Philadelphia Phillies vs. MilwaukeeBrewers game.

Already have tickets? Join us for the tailgate party atMcFadden’s for just $30.

Registration is required. Online registration is available atwww.gmc.edu/alumni/events.php

Contact Shae Berler at 267-448-1345 or berler.s@gmc.edu forquestions or to register by phone.

GMCat the

SaturdayJUNE 12013