For release
For more information: contact Joseph Giomboni
King's College, (570) 208-5957

May 16, 2017 – The King’s College Physician Assistant program coordinated the college’s participation in the recent eighth annual Northeast/Central Pennsylvania Interprofessional Education Coalition (NECPA IPEC) Collaborative Care Summit.

More than 850 students and nearly 150 facilitators from various health professions attended this year’s Summit. Eleven different colleges/universities participated. The Summit which was held simultaneously at sites in the  Wilkes-Barre, Scranton and Williamsport areas. King’s was one of the regional sites in Wilkes-Barre. 

The goal of the summit was to prepare all students in health professions majors so that they can collaboratively work together with the common goal of building a safer and better patient-centered U.S. health care system.  The conference consisted of an opening session and small, interprofessional group discussions. 

The summit focused on the topic of obesity, where participants discussed the role of bias and stereotype as it applies to health care for patients with obesity, the impact and challenges of obesity on individual and population health, individual perspectives and the role of healthcare professionals on improving the health of patients and communities, and responsibilities in forming a collaborative team that provides comprehensive and patient-centered care.

CareSummit17.JPG

Pictured at the Annual Collaborative Care Summit held at King’s College, seated from left, are student participants Sangjae Jang, Wilkes University; Alex Taylor, King’s College; Caroline Moore, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine; Asia Christian, Penn State University- Hazleton; Nancy Race, Luzerne County Community College; and Shannon Morguno, Misericordia University. Standing: Judith Kristeller, Wilkes University; Letitia Warunek, Wilkes University; Jan Kretzschmar, King’s College; Susan Malkemes, Wilkes University; Sheryl Goss, Misericordia University; Rosemarie Petrilla, Penn State University-Hazleton; Jim Caggliano, Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine; Jenifer Olszyk, Luzerne Country Community College; and Rachel Yenkowski, King’s College.

For release
Further information: Contact John McAndrew
Public Relations Office, (570) 208-5958

May 18, 2017 - Glenn Tyranski, a dedicated alumnus, mentor, and board member, has been selected as the fourth recipient of the Rev. James Lackenmier, C.S.C., Award for Achievement and Leadership.  The award will be presented at a ceremony to be held Thursday, October 19, at the New York Athletic Club.

Proceeds from the award dinner will benefit the King’s College Presidential Hope Fund, a critical resource that supports deserving King’s students who are faced with unforeseen financial hardships that threaten their ability to complete their undergraduate studies.  To date, nearly $550,000 has been raised for the Fund.

The award dinner will be held in conjunction with the College’s 13^th annual McGowan School of Business Forum.

“Glenn Tyranski is the personification of a servant leader; he gives tirelessly of his time, talent and treasure to benefit and enrich his alma mater and his community,” said Father John Ryan, C.S.C., King’s president.  “Glenn takes time from his busy career and other obligations to travel to campus frequently, to mentor students, to speak on panels, and to advise King’s leadership, helping the College grow and move forward in important ways.”

Tyranski is Managing Director at FTI Consulting, based in New York City, in the Forensic Accounting & Advisory Services practice, specializing in activism, shareholder engagement and governance. 

A 1984 graduate of King’s College, Tyranski holds a bachelor of science degrees in accounting and in computers and information services. He began his career in the assurance practice at KPMG advancing to senior manager.  Next, he joined the New York Stock Exchange, where he advanced to Senior Vice President of Financial Compliance.  In this role he was co-chair of the NYSE’s Listings & Compliance Committee and reported directly to the Exchange’s Chief Regulatory Officer and the NYSE Regulation Board of Directors.  Tyranski most recently was Executive Director in Ernst & Young’s Financial Accounting Advisory Services practice.

“King's College holds a special place in my heart, and taught me how not only to make a living but how to live,” said Tyranski. “I am so very honored and privileged to receive the Lackenmier Award this coming fall.”

Tyranski is a member of the King’s College Board of Directors, the William G. McGowan School of Business Advisory Council, and a former member of the President’s Council at King’s.  He is recipient of the 2011 Robert J. Ell Alumni Award for Outstanding Service to Alma Mater.

He is a Certified Public Accountant, and a member of the American Institute of Public Accountants (CPA) and New York State Society of CPAs.  Tyranski serves on the boards of directors of Long Island Children’s Museum, Tomorrow’s Hope Foundation, and Financial Executives International, NYC Chapter.  Additionally, he is an active member of the National Association of Corporate Directors, the National Investor Relations Institute and is affiliated with a number of parish related organizations.

Glenn lives on Long Island with his wife Susan Waiter and is father to three daughters, Mary, Grace, and Anna and grandfather to Thea.

The annual McGowan School of Business Forum provides approximately 100 King’s students each year an opportunity to be mentored by leaders in the business field, most of whom are graduates of the College.  The mentoring session is followed by a formal dinner, presentation of the award, and remarks by the recipient.  The award dinner and Forum rotate on an annual basis between New York City, Philadelphia, and Wilkes-Barre.

Tickets for the event are $300/person and $150/person for King’s graduates from the classes of 2007 to the present.  Various levels of sponsorships and program ads are available. For further information, contact Patrice Persico at patricepersico@kings.edu or at 570-208-5972.

Tyranski-Glenn.jpg

Glenn Tyranski

For Immediate Release 
Further information: Contact Joseph Giomboni 
Public Relations Office, (570) 208-5957

May 18, 2017 – King’s College will host an Aspiring Writers Camp for high school students from 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. June 21-23 on the College’s campus in Wilkes-Barre. Sponsored by the English Department, the camp will feature classes on video game storytelling, science fiction, creative non-fiction, and fiction. 

High school students can learn about creative writing and hone their skills through writing exercises, class discussion, and course readings. Classes are limited to 15 students to allow King’s faculty to provide hands-on writing instruction in a supportive environment.

Jennifer Judge Yonkoski will teach video game storytelling. Students will develop an original video game story using creative writing exercises to create compelling characters and build a new world for gamers to explore. The class goal is to create a game concept document.  

Dr. Mike Little will teach science fiction writing. What are the consequences of discovering alien life, flying cars, or artificial intelligence? In this class, students will develop characters, write effective dialog, blend narration with dialog and exposition, and examine how the ideas of today lead to an alternative future.

Dr. Jennifer McClinton-Temple will teach the course, “Creative Non-Fiction: Telling Your Own Story.” With a focus on memoir and autobiography in the vein of “I Am Malala” by Malala Yousafzai, “Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand, and “Yes, Please!” by Amy Poehler, students will learn to tell their own stories with heart and humor. 

Dr. Robin Field will teach the art of fiction writing. Whether penning a western or zombie apocalypse, students in this class will learn how to create compelling characters, describe the worlds they inhabit, and portray the dilemmas they face. 

The deadline to register is June 12. The cost of the three-day camp is $65. Lunch and snacks are provided. The camp will be held in the McGowan School of Business located on N. River Street. Parking will be available at on-campus lots. 

For more information on the Aspiring Writers Camp or to register, visit the website www.kings.edu/aspiringwriterscamp or contact Jennifer Yonkoski, instructor of English at King’s College, at (570) 208-5900, ext. 5487 or e-mail jenniferyonkoski@kings.edu.

For release
Further information: Contact Joseph Giomboni 
Public Relations Office, (570) 208-5958

May 22, 2017 – King’s College student Jaclyn Victor of Nanticoke was awarded a James A. Finnegan Foundation Fellowship at an awards luncheon held recently at the Pennsylvania Governor’s Residence. As a Finnegan Fellow, Victor will receive a paid 10-week summer internship at the Department of State, Bureau of Commissions, Elections and Legislation at the State Capitol in Harrisburg and a $1,000 stipend.

Finnegan Fellows are assigned positions in state executive, legislative, or judicial branches of government. Participants attend seminars with leading elected or appointed public officials and key media personnel. Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, potential for leadership, and an essay on a policy topic. This year’s topic was the Pennsylvania General Assembly’s consideration of legislation dealing with “sanctuary cities.”

Formed in 1960, the Finnegan Foundation was established to honor the memory of James A. Finnegan, Secretary of the Commonwealth (1955-1958). It works to provide practical training in government and politics for outstanding undergraduate students.

Victor is a sophomore majoring in political science at King’s. She is the Editor-in-Chief of the College’s yearbook, “The Regis,” and previously served as president of the Class of 2019. She recently completed an internship as the Deputy Campaign Manager for Democratic candidate Bob McDonald in the 120th Legislative District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives election in November 2016. 

She is the daughter of Justin and Juliet Victor. 

Victor.JPG

Jaclyn Victor

For Release
Further Information: Contact Joseph Giomboni 
King’s College Public Relations Office, (570) 208-5957

May 25, 2017 – Sixteen King’s College students will experience the art, history and culture of southern Spain while learning the art of travel writing as part of a three week faculty-led study abroad program this summer in Seville. The trip includes excursions to Granada, Cordoba, Ronda, and the Roman Ruins Itálica.

King’s College participants are Kayley Carey, sophomore, Courtdale, mass communication; Alexander Church, sophomore, Torrington, Conn., mathematics and business administration; Allison Detwiler, sophomore, Larksville, mass communication; Amy Higgins, junior, Sweet Valley, professional writing;  Dylan Koch, sophomore, Franklin, N.J., mathematics; Zachery Lescowitch, sophomore, Sugarloaf, civil engineering and physics; Brooke Lutz, sophomore, Bath, physician assistant studies; Desiree Margani, freshman, Berwick, physician assistant studies; Jonathan Nocket, freshman, Avoca, neuroscience; Kruschef Sanchez, junior, Saylersburg, physics and mechanical engineering; Krystal Szerszen, senior, Olyphant, biology and philosophy; Emily Thomas, sophomore, Mantua, N.J., mathematics and business administration; Sara Tolpa, junior, Annandale, N.J., accounting; Audrey Williams, freshman, Kingston, Spanish and environmental science; Carol Yaracz, sophomore, Drums, mathematics and computer science; and Samuel Zavada, sophomore, Mountain Top, mass communications. In addition, Wyoming Seminary senior KyraTani Little of Forty Fort will join the group from King’s.

During the program, titled “Travel Writing in Spain,” the group will be immersed in Spanish culture through homestays, interaction with local students, and conversations with members of various communities. The program includes visits to museums, landmarks, and churches, including Alcazar, La Giralda, the Museo de Bellas Artes, and Plaza de España.  Students will also participate in guided tours of the oldest local markets and neighborhoods, learn to cook Spanish cuisine, join students from Escuela Taurina for an introduction to bullfighting, and attend a traditional Flamenco show. Students will capture their experience by creating photo essays and digital narratives.

King’s professors Dr. Jennifer Darrell, assistant professor of Spanish, and Dr. Michael Little, associate professor of English, are program directors. Renata Evan, coordinator of short-term faculty-led programs abroad, assisted in developing the program. 

Seville17.JPG

King’s students and faculty participating in the short-term study abroad experience to Spain are, seated from left: Seated: Emily Thomas, Carol Yaracz, Alexander Church, Dylan Koch (kneeling), Krystal Szerszen (kneeling), Kruschef Sanchez, Audrey Williams, and Kayley Carey. Standing: Renata Evan, coordinator of short-term faculty-led programs abroad; Jonathan Nocket; Zachery Lescowitch; Samuel Zavada; Dr. Michael Little, faculty co-leader; Allison Detwiler; Brooke Lutz; Desiree Margani; and Amy Higgins. Absent from photo: Dr. Jennifer Darrell, faculty co-leader; Sara Tolpa; and KyraTani Little.

For Release
Further Information: Contact Joseph Giomboni 
King’s College Public Relations Office, (570) 208-5957

May 25, 2017 – Ten King’s College students will participate in a three week faculty-led study abroad experience titled “The Dragons Awake: The Globalizing Business World of Vietnam and Singapore.” As part of this experience, students will meet business leaders at Vietnamese and international companies, tour commercial centers, and meet with representatives from the U.S. Consulate Economic division.

During their time in Hanoi, King’s students will also have opportunities to visit cultural sites such as the Taoist Quan Thanh Temple, The Buddhist Tran Quoc Pagoda, and Ho Chi Minh’s House and Masoleum. The group will attend a performance of Vietnamese traditional art of water puppetry.

The group will take weekend excursions to Vietnamese natural landmarks, including Halong Bay and Ninh Binh. On these excursions, the group will see the historic capital of Vietnam, Hoa Lu, the famous ancient temples of the Le and Dinh Dynasties, national parks and natural beauty. Finally, on their return home, students will spend one day in Singapore, one of world’s largest financial centers and the world’s only island city-state.

King’s student participants are Allison Andrew, sophomore, Lehighton, business management; Margaret Bentkowski, sophomore, New Windsor, N.Y., business management and international business; Vanessa Castillo, sophomore, Wilkes-Barre, accounting; Danielle Janssen, sophomore, Mountain Top, accounting and business management; Maggie Jones, junior, Laflin, business management; Kaylene Kennedy, sophomore, Hanover Twp., accounting; Haley Kramer, freshman, Macungie, accounting; Meghan Prushinski, sophomore, Nanticoke, accounting; Charlotte Yelnosky, sophomore, Huntingdon, business management; and Stephanie Zimmerman, sophomore, Shavertown, accounting.

King’s College McGowan School of Business professors Dr. Garold Lantz and Dr. Sandra Loeb are co-faculty program directors. As part of the program, they will teach a joint course for King’s students and a group of Vietnamese English-language speaking business students at the National Economics University in Hanoi. Renata Evan, coordinator of short-term faculty-led programs abroad, assisted in developing the program.

Vietnam17.JPG

King’s students and faculty participating in the short-term study abroad experience to Vietnam and Singapore are, seated from left: Danielle Janssen, Maggie Jones, Meghan Prushinski, Stephanie Zimmerman and Allison Andrew. Standing: Renata Evan, coordinator of short-term faculty-led programs abroad; Charlotte Yelnosky; Margaret Bentkowski; Kaylene Kennedy; Haley Kramer; and co-faculty leaders Dr. Sandra Loeb and Dr. Garold Lantz. Absent from photo: Vanessa Castillo.

For Release
Further Information: Contact Joseph Giomboni 
King’s College Public Relations Office, (570) 208-5957

May 25, 2017 – Nineteen King’s College students will participate in a three-week faculty-led study abroad experience to study history and culture in Ireland and Scotland. The program, titled “Celtic Cultures: Ireland and Scotland,” includes trips to Dublin, Donegal, Belfast, Glasgow, and Edinburgh.

Prior to departure, participating students will have read the history of and literature inspired by the Irish struggle for independence.  The group will visit sites central to the Easter Uprising of 1916, and to the Irish language and the Irish Literary Revival, including Yeats Country and Lissadell House. In Belfast, students will study the Troubles, a conflict in Northern Ireland during the late 20th century, aided by a tour of the city's political murals.

In Scotland, the group will explore Scottish identity as compared to English and Irish identity. Students will visit sites such as the Palace at Holyroodhouse, ancestral home of the Stewarts, as well as the Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and the Museum of Scotland.

King’s student participants are Alexus Arcaro, junior, Hillsdale, N.J., environmental studies; Ali Brady, junior, Avoca, accounting; Nicole Ciprich, sophomore, Plains, mass communication; Natalie Coffee, sophomore, Nanticoke, environmental engineering; Brian Fisher, junior, Plains Twp., professional writing; Christa Franckiewicz, junior, Wilkes-Barre, biology; Sarah Gyle, senior, Wilkes-Barre, English literature; Hannah Jenkins, sophomore, Sumter, S.C., physician assistant studies; Marissa Lines,  sophomore, Mountain Top, finance and business management; Sean Maloney, sophomore, Hanover Twp., computer science and engineering; Megan McGowan, sophomore, Moosic, accounting and marketing; Gabriella McNulty, junior, Upper Darby, psychology and criminal justice;  Tristin Milazzo, sophomore, Hanover Twp., history and English literature; Bryce Partlow, junior, Nanticoke, chemical engineering; Jill Patton, sophomore, Monroe Twp., professional writing and English literature; Wyatt Pensinger, sophomore, Blandon, physician assistant studies; Katelyn Talbot, freshman, Hawley, psychology; Jordan Wood, freshman, Lititz, mechanical engineering; Alexis Wylam, sophomore, Hanover Twp., chemistry. In addition, Cavan Temple, a junior from Wyoming Valley West High School, will join the group from King’s.              

King’s professors Dr. Nicole Mares, associate professor of history, and Dr. Jennifer McClinton-Temple, professor of English, are co-faculty program directors. Renata Evan, coordinator of short-term faculty-led programs abroad, assisted in developing the program. 

Ireland17.JPG

King’s students and faculty participating in the short-term study abroad experience to Ireland and Scotland are, seated from left: Katelyn Talbot, Ali Brady, Megan McGowan, Sarah Gyle, Tristin Milazzo, and Jill Patton. Standing: Renata Evan, coordinator of short-term faculty-led programs abroad; Alexus Arcaro; Gabriella McNulty; Jordan Wood; Sean Maloney; Wyatt Pensinger; Brian Fisher; Natalie Coffee; and co-faculty leaders Dr. Nicole Mares and Dr. Jennifer McClinton-Temple. Absent from photo: Nicole Ciprich, Christa Franckiewicz, Hannah Jenkins, Marissa Lines, Bryce Partlow, Alexis Wylam, and Cavan Temple.

Patrick J. Murphy, a 1996 graduate of King’s College, decorated military veteran, attorney, former US Congressman, and, most recently, Under Secretary of the US Army, provided the address at King’s 68th Annual Commencement exercises at which approximately 450 students received either a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

• Click here to listen to Patrick J. Murphy's Commencement Address

As a student at King’s, Murphy was President of the Student Body and an Army ROTC cadet.  He received a bachelor’s degree with majors in psychology and human resources management and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Army Reserves.

While attending Widener University School of Law, Murphy worked in the office of the Philadelphia District Attorney, was a leader in the Harrisburg Civil Law Clinic, a legal aid society serving the poor, served as an Army officer in Germany, and served as a legislative aide to a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.  He received his law degree in 1999.

Beginning in 2000, Murphy was on active duty with the US Army, first serving as a judge advocate and then an assistant professor at the United States Military Academy.  Following the 9-11 attacks, he volunteered for overseas deployment, serving in both Bosnia and Iraq and was awarded the Bronze Star.

In 2006, Murphy became the first veteran of the Iraq War to be elected to Congress, representing the 8^th Congressional District of Pennsylvania.  During his two terms, he served on the Armed Services, Select Intelligence, and Appropriations Committees.

Following his time in Congress, Murphy was a national litigation partner for the Philadelphia-based law firm Fox Rothschild LLP.  He also co-founded Virtus, LLC, a television production company that produced shows for CBS and MSNBC.

Murphy was appointed by President Obama and confirmed by the US Senate as Undersecretary of the Army in 2015.  During his year in office, he also assumed the duties as Acting Secretary of the Army for four months.

Murphy was a Visiting Fellow at the University of Chicago and has been an invited lecturer at Harvard University, Stanford University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the US Air Force Academy.

For Immediate Release
Further information: Contact Joseph Giomboni 
Public Relations Office, (570) 208-5958

June 1, 2017 – As a tune up for elementary and secondary school teachers before the 2017-18 school year, the King's College Education Department will partner with Luzerne Intermediate Unit 18 to host an "Evidence-Based" Conference from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Thursday, August 17, in the Sheehy-Farmer Campus Center. 

This year’s theme is “STR²E²AM: Evidence-Based Practices Conference.” Participants will choose three from 12 one-hour workshops designed to aid Pre-K-12 teachers in the areas of science, technology, reading, writing, engineering, early childhood, arts and mathematics. The workshops will be taught by members of King’s faculty, consultants from the Luzerne Intermediate Unit 18 and NEIU19, as well as teachers and administrators from local schools. Featured speakers will provide information on STEM programs and products, the impact of concussions on students, parent involvement activities, assessment, and classroom management strategies. 

The Sheehy-Farmer Campus Center is located between North Franklin and North Main streets. Registration is $25 and begins at 8 a.m. Registration for undergraduate students is $10. Early bird registration prior to July 31 is $20. Pre-registration is encouraged, however walk-in registration is accepted at the standard rate. The LIU18 will facilitate the reporting of the three Act 48 hours. 

For more information on the evidenced-based conference for elementary and secondary school teachers, visit the website www.kings.edu/stream2017 or contact Janice Gavlick, King’s College Education Department, at (570) 208-5983 or Dr. Deb Carr, assistant professor and Director of the Curriculum & Instruction Graduate Program at King’s, at (570) 208-5900, ext. 5448.

For release
Further information: Contact Joseph Giomboni 
Public Relations Office, (570) 208-5958

June 5, 2017 – “Game of Thrones versus History: Written in Blood,”  the latest book by Rev. Brian Pavlac, Ph.D., professor of history at King’s College, has been published by Wiley. The book collects contributions from scholars around the globe who discuss how history could be understood through George R. R. Martin's bookseries and the resulting HBO television series. Pavlac contributed two essays, while Dr. Daniel Clasby and Dr. Nicole Mares of the King’s College History Department also wrote essays.  Dr. William Irwin of the King’s Philosophy Department wrote a forward.

Dr. Pavlac’s textbook, “A Concise Survey of Western Civilizations: Supremacies and Diversities throughout History,” was published by Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc. in 2011. He also authored the book, “Witch Hunts in the Western World: Persecution and Punishment from the Inquisition through the Salem Trials,” published in a paperback edition by Bison Books.

A resident of Kingston, Pavlac became a full-time professor at King’s in 1993. He was awarded the 2010 Herve A. LeBlanc Distinguished Service Professorship, which honors faculty who, because of their dedication to teaching and commitment to learning, serve as exemplary professors to their students. 

Pavlac earned a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Bowling Green State University, and a master’s degree and doctorate in history from the University of Notre Dame. He currently teaches courses on ancient and medieval history, global history, western civilizations, history of Christianity, and women’s history in Europe.

Pavlac.jpg

Dr. Brian Pavlac 

For Immediate Release
Further information: Contact Joseph Giomboni 
Public Relations Office, (570) 208-5958

June 6, 2017 – More than 50 local elementary school students will showcase a variety of original creative works in the “Young Artists” exhibition being held through July 14 in the Widmann Gallery at King’s College. 

Art students in first through sixth grades have produced compositions with graphite, colored pencil, pastel, pen and ink, watercolor, mixed media, and acrylic.  The artworks are varied in subject matter and include figures, animals, still life, architecture, landscapes, seascapes, and portraits. The students represent Dallas, Shavertown, Lehman, Hunlock Creek, Larksville, Wyoming, Kingston, Hudson, Wilkes-Barre, Bear Creek, Pittston Township and Dupont. 

All of the students study under the direction of Sue Hand of Sue Hand's Imagery, Dallas. The students have studied under Hand’s direction, as well as Lora Womer, Hunlock Creek, and Dallas residents Nicole Jacobs and Alexis Lanza.  

The exhibit is coordinated by award winning artist Sue Hand, who holds an honorary doctorate of humanities from King’s College. A reception will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, June 16, in the Widmann Gallery in the Sheehy-Farmer Campus Center, located between North Franklin and North Main streets. 

The exhibition is free and open to the public. Gallery hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sat. and Sun., as arranged. The Gallery is closed on national holidays.  

For more information, contact Michelle Leonard, Widmann Gallery Coordinator, at (570) 208-5900, ext. 5328, or visit the Experiencing the Arts Calendar at www.kings.edu.  

Olshemski-Maddie.jpg

A pen and ink sketch by Maddie Olshemski will be among the creative works by local elementary students on display through July 14 in the “Young Artists” exhibition in the Widmann Gallery at King’s College. Olshemski is a sixth grade student at Good Shepherd Academy.

For Release
Further Information: Contact Joseph Giomboni 
King’s College Public Relations Office: (570) 208-5957

June 12, 2017 – King’s College students Tristin Milazzo and Elizabeth Novak have been awarded grants under the McGowan Center Student Research Program, which offers support for currently enrolled King's undergraduates to engage in faculty-mentored research on topics of ethical import. 

Tristin Milazzo’s project is entitled "Echoes from the Breaker Boys: Contemporary Ethical Implications from the Progressive Era Fight against Child Labor.” Her faculty mentor is Dr. Tom Mackaman, associate professor of history. Elizabeth Novak’s project is entitled "Corporate Social Responsibility: An International Perspective on the Interaction between Legal and Ethical Imperatives.”  Her faculty mentor is Dr. J.C. Blewitt, assistant professor of management.

As part of the McGowan Center Student Research Program, overseen by the center’s director Dr. Bernard Prusak, each student will produce a paper appropriate for presentation at an undergraduate conference during the next academic year. The research grants cover tuition for an independent study course at King’s, the cost of books and other materials needed for research, and registration, travel, and lodging at the student’s selected conference.

Milazzo of Hanover Twp. is a sophomore majoring in history and English literature with minors in professional writing and theology. She is a member of King’s Honors Program; Delta Epsilon Sigma, the national scholastic honor society for students of colleges and universities with a Catholic tradition; and Phi Alpha Theta, the history honor society. She is also part of group from King’s participating in a short-term study abroad experience this summer to Ireland and Scotland.

Novak of Portersville is a junior majoring in international business and marketing. She is a member of Epsilon Chi Omicron, an international honor society for international business; Campus Ministry Advisory Council; and the women’s cross country team. She studied abroad during the spring semester with the American Institute for Foreign Study at St. Petersburg Polytechnic University in St. Petersburg, Russia. She also completed a faculty-led study abroad experience to Greece in summer of 2016.

Milazzo.JPG

Tristin Milazzo

Novak.jpg

Elizabeth Novak

For release
Further information: Contact John McAndrew
Public Relations Office, (570) 208-5958

Twenty four local residents received academic awards at King’s College’s recent 68^th annual Commencement exercises.

local-commencement-awards.JPG

Pictured seated, from left, is John Kozak, Pittston, Lee Sweinberg, Jr., Memorial Award for Computer Science; Ashley Warner, Nanticoke, William G. McGowan School of Business Achievement Award for Management; Yazmin Rohena, Wilkes-Barre, the Grace Coakley Brooks Award for Excellence in Psychology;  Shaniese Ricketts, Wilkes-Barre, Dr. Adam Drayer Award for Demonstrated Excellence in Teacher Education Program; Julianna Grandinetti, Mountain Top, St. Andre Bessette Award for Service in the Spirit of the Congregation of Holy Cross; Rachel Vitale, Wilkes-Barre, Father Murgas Memorial Award for Communications; and Jacob Kozak, Pittston, Award of the Bishop Hafey Assembly Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus for History.

Pictured standing, from left, is Timothy Carl, Mountain Top, S. Idris Ley Memorial Award for the Highest Academic Achievement; Michael Cipriani, West Wyoming, Dorothy Day Volunteer Award for Recognition of Four Years of Service; James Kopec, Forty Fort, Reverend James Kline Award for Mathematics; Brian Stonikinis, Dupont, John Curley, CPA, Award for Accounting Achievement; Nicholas Kotulak, Temple B’nai B’rith Award for Public Administration; Jeremy Peters, Dallas, John Moses Award for Public Law; Joseph Lanning, Wilkes-Barre, Department of the Army ROTC Distinguished Military Graduate Award; Shamus Gartley, Plains, Regina Award for Biology and the Dr. Paul Lawrence and Attorney Marian Buccafurni Best in Science Award; and Andrew Coco, Exeter, Award of the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants for Accounting.

Absent from photo were Meghan Colburn, Wilkes-Barre, 2017 Outstanding Adult Learner; Sharon Flores, Wilkes-Barre, Accounting Association Award in Memory of Chris Karmonick; John Rash, Hanover Township, Reverend James Sheehan Memorial Award in Chemistry; Crystal Seashock, Nanticoke, John Stapleton Memorial Award for Accounting; Andrea Siejna, Wilkes-Barre, Award for Computers and Information Systems; Alissa Stegman, Trucksville, William G. McGowan School of Business Achievement Award for Marketing; Edward Yonkoski, Dallas, Highest Academic Achievement Presented to an Adult Student in Continuing Higher Education and the W.A. Kilburn Memorial Award for Philosophy; and Megan Ziller, Plymouth, Donald Farmer Memorial Award for History.

For Immediate Release
Further Information: Contact John McAndrew
Director of Public Relations (570)208-5958

Four King’s College faculty members received awards announced during the weekend of the 68^th annual Commencement exercises.

Dr. Joan Blewitt, associate professor of business administration, was named to the PNC Distinguished Service Professorship. 

Dr. Jennifer McClinton-Temple, professor and chair of the English department, was named to the Herve LeBlanc Distinguished Professorship.

Distinguished Service Professorships honor faculty who, because of their dedication to teaching and commitment to learning, serve as exemplary professors to their students.

Dr. Marc Marchese, professor of human resources management and the John Davis Distinguished Service Professor, received the Max and Tillie Rosenn Award for Faculty.  The award, established in 1998 by the Honorable Max Rosenn, Senior Circuit Judge of the Third District Federal Court, is given annually to a faculty member who is recognized as an outstanding teacher.  The award is given to a full-time faculty member with a minimum of 10 years of teaching at King’s.

Dr. Scott Weiland, assistant professor and chair of the communications department, received the Rev. Donald Grimes, C.S.C., Annual Award for Service-Learning Teaching Excellence.  The award recognizes a faculty member who has exhibited distinction in integrating service and learning in courses at King’s and who has combined service and learning in a way that especially aids students’ learning; that causes students to reflect critically on the service work they have done; that empowers and energizes students to do further and informed work in the community; and that meets a real community need. 

Blewitt.jpg

Dr. Joan Blewitt

McClinton-Temple.jpg

Dr. Jennifer McClinton-Temple

Marchese.jpg

Dr. Marc Marchese

Weiland.jpg

Dr. Scott Weiland

For release
Further Information:  Contact Joseph Giomboni
Public Relations Office, (570) 208-5957  

June 27, 2017– King’s College honored five of its alumni with annual awards at a ceremony held during Commencement Weekend. Honorees were James P. Abrams, The Leo Award; Robert J. Ciaruffoli, Service to Society; Atty. Joseph S. Falchek, Outstanding Service to Alma Mater; Santo Loquasto, Outstanding Professional Achievement – Arts and Sciences; and Atty. Patrick J. Murphy, Outstanding Professional Achievement – Business. 

Established in honor of the King’s College Golden Jubilee in1996, the awards are conferred annually upon alumni by the president of the College to people who have distinguished themselves through exceptional achievement. 

A resident of Dallas, Abrams is the founder, president and CTO of EthosGen, a Wilkes-Barre based alternative energy technologies company. He graduated from King’s in 2005 with a bachelor’s degree in history and political science and founded EthosGen in 2006. He has served as lead for energy development and commercialization projects, including the U.S. Department of Defense Caterpillar, AVL, and Rockwell Simmons. He was a semi-finalist of over 2,500 firms in Sir Richard Branson’s Extreme Tech Challenge. He was a 2015 Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist, recipient of the Department of Energy ACE Clean Energy Accelerator Award, the 2014 Keystone Top Venture, and the 2015 Ben Franklin Innovative Technology Award. 

Following his service in the Marine Corps, Ciaruffoli earned an accounting degree from King’s in 1975.  He later joined Parente Randolph, a Wilkes-Barre accounting firm, where he advanced to chairman and CEO and oversaw mergers of the firm to Philadelphia-based ParenteBeard and Baker Tilly, which created the 12th largest accounting and consulting firm in the United States. He served as CEO until his retirement in 2015.  As President of the World Meeting of Families, he was instrumental in bringing Pope Francis to Philadelphia in 2015. 

Falchek earned a bachelor’s degree in history from King’s in 1971, a master’s degree in history from Lehigh University, and his Juris doctorate from Temple University School of Law. He is a practicing attorney with an office in Plains.  A resident of Mountain Top, Falchek joined King’s in 1987 as adjunct faculty member and advanced to professor of business administration in 2003. He served as department chair of business and management from 1997 until his retirement in 2013. 

A Tony Award-winning production designer, scenic designer and costume designer for theatre, film, and dance, Loquasto began designing sets and costumes locally at Showcase Theatre. He earned a bachelor’s degree from King’s in English in 1966 and a Masters of Fine Arts from Yale Drama School in 1969. He has worked on more than 98 Broadway productions as scenic or costume designer beginning in 1972 with “Sticks and Bones” to “Hello Dolly,” for which he earned his 19th Tony Award nomination and fourth win this year.  He has been nominated for three Academy Awards: Best Production Design for “Bullets Over Broadway” in 1995, Best Production Design for “Radio Days” in 1988, and Best Costume Design for “Zelig” in 1984.  

A decorated military veteran, former U.S. Congressman, and MSNBC contributor, Murphy recently served as Under Secretary of the US Army. He received a bachelor’s degree in human resource management and psychology from King’s. He received his law degree from Weidner University School of Law, began active duty as a judge advocate and later served as an assistant professor at the United States Military Academy.  Following the 9-11 attacks, Murphy volunteered for overseas deployment, serving in Bosnia and Iraq, and was awarded the Bronze Star. In 2006, Murphy became the first veteran of the Iraq War to be elected to Congress, serving two terms representing the 8th Congressional District of Pennsylvania.

Abrams.jpg

James P. Abrams, The Leo Award

ciaruffoli.jpg

Robert J. Ciaruffoli, Service to Society

Falchek.jpg

Atty. Joseph S. Falchek, Outstanding Service to Alma Mater

Loquasto.jpg

Santo Loquasto, Outstanding Professional Achievement – Arts and Sciences

Murphy.jpg

Atty. Patrick J. Murphy, Outstanding Professional Achievement – Business

July 11, 2017– Twenty four local junior and high school students attended a three-day Aspiring Writers Camp sponsored by the King’s College English Department and held on-campus.  The camp featured classes, taught by members of the King’s English department, on video game storytelling, science fiction, creative non-fiction, and fiction. 

Pictured in front row, from left, is Dr. Michael Little, Korina Cheng, Jennifer Yonkoski, Hiba Muhammad, Samantha Sparich, Natalie Graham, Riley Giomboni, Lydia McFarlane, Michala Dennis, Megan Dennis, Jessica Kline, Dominique Kline, Olivia Zablocky, Stephen Vanesko, Dr. Jennifer McClinton-Temple, and Dr. Robin Field.

Pictured standing, from left, is Marcus Hernandez, Louis DeAngelo, Jonah Musselman, Hunter O’Clair, Lindsey Scorey, Cavan Temple, Emily Miller, Macy Zenier, Abigail Reilley, and Helen Campbell.

Also participating in the event but not pictured was Matthew Lanzendorfer and Mahad Muhammad.

aspiring-writers-camp.JPG

For Release
Further information: Contact Joseph Giomboni
Public Relations Office, (570) 208-5957

July 13, 2017 – Kristen Baumés of Yatesville has been named Assistant Registrar at King’s College. She will utilize her background in information technology to provide data entry, retrieval and analysis to support new and transferring students’ academic registration and progress toward graduation. She also will be responsible for data submissions to the National Student Clearinghouse, serve as the Veteran’s Affairs certifying official of the College, and assist with classroom scheduling. 

Prior to coming to King’s, Baumés was the Lead Assistant Director of Admissions at Wilkes University, where she was responsible for recruitment of prospective students from Pennsylvania and New Jersey, coordinated admissions events, and evaluated applications. 

Baumés graduated from King’s with a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a minor in finance in 2011. As a student, she participated in a study abroad experience to the American University of Rome in Italy, She earned a master’s of business administration from Wilkes University in 2013 and served as president of the university’s Delta Mu Delta Business Honor Society.

Baumes.JPG

Kristen Baumés, Assistant Registrar at King’s College. 

For Release
Further Information Contact:  John McAndrew
Public Relations Office (570)208-5958

July 13, 2017 – Sixty two students entering their final year of the master’s degree physician assistant studies program at King’s College recently began their clinical rotations, many with local health care practitioners.  A twelve-week rotation in family medicine and separate six-week rotations in medical specialties including emergency medicine, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, psychiatry, and general surgery will conclude with their graduation from the program in August 2018.  In addition to local health care facilities, physician assistant students are also completing rotations in Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

Pictured in front row, from left, is Adam Andriulli,  Jordyn O’Leary, Marissa Breeze, Erin Hurley, Heather Horvath, Spoorthy Challa, Madysen Jones, Meghan Cawley, Julianna Grandinetti, Ancy Chempola, Rebecca Johnson, Tarah Zajaczkowski, Grace Geno, Melissa Colon-Roman, and Alexa Lambert.

Pictured in second row, from left, is Kimberly Stanford, Christopher Picarello, Brenna Smudde, Devon Bizarre, Eleanor Cabrera, Jordan Kingdon, Frank Commisso, Amber Soden, Aaron Sosa, Lauren Francisci, Nicolle Finn, and Jacqueline Biacco.

Pictured in third row, from left, is Marissa Durako, Natasha Raffai, Tia Rex, Kaylee Grapsy, Jocelyn  Mastaler, Anthony Tolerico, Angela Arcangeli, Lauren Ax, Tia Pilikian,  Mae Janiga, and Julia Shandra.

Pictured in fourth row, from left, is Brianna Heldt, Samuel Goldheart, Leah Makarevich, Andrea Grammatico, Justin Liddy, Jaime Broughton, Amanda Millard, Miranda Warunek, Briannon Yadrick, Marybeth Rudy, Elizabeth George, and Kiera Halligan. 

Pictured in top row, from left, is Alexander Taylor, Courtney Stefanik, Dylan Saxon, Justin Barnett, Nicholas Kaufman, Matthew Messina, Molly Conlin, Kathryn Harpin, Tom Madigan, Alexandra Garrett, Macy Bosshard, and Tyler Gallagher.

pa-rotations-2017.JPG

For Immediate Release
Further information: Contact Joseph Giomboni 
Public Relations Office, (570) 208-5958

July 14, 2017 – Six local high school students will showcase their talents in a collaborative art exhibition titled, “6 Girls and Their Art,” from Monday, July 17, through Friday, August 25,in the Widmann Gallery at King’s College. 

Displaying artwork are Nicole Jacobs, Dallas; Johanna Kiska, Shavertown; Alexis Lanza, Dallas; and Lexie Oster, Trucksville, all of Dallas High School; Miranda Nardone, Shavertown, Scranton Preparatory School; and Madalyn Wright, Archbald, Valley View High School. Each artist has recently completed tenth grade.

The exhibition features a variety of media, including watercolor, colored pencil, graphite, ink, acrylic, mixed media, charcoal, and pastel. Their creative works are on a range of subjects, from portraiture and landscapes to still lifes and abstraction.  

The six artists study with award-winning artist Sue Hand, Dallas, who holds an honorary doctorate of humanities from King’s. They have regularly participated in competitions and invitational exhibits. A reception will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, July 21, in the Widmann Gallery in the Sheehy-Farmer Campus Center, located between North Franklin and North Main streets. 

The exhibition is free and open to the public. Gallery hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sat. and Sun., as arranged. The Gallery is closed on national holidays.  

For more information, contact Michelle Leonard, Widmann Gallery Coordinator, at (570) 208-5900, ext. 5328, or visit the Experiencing the Arts Calendar at www.kings.edu.   

Snowflakes-in-the-City.jpg

“Snowflakes in the City,” charcoal by Miranda Nardone will be among the creative works by six local high school students on display through August 25 in the “6 Girls and Their Art” exhibition in the Widmann Gallery at King’s College. Nardone recently completed the tenth grade at Scranton Preparatory School.

For Release
Further Information: Contact Joseph Giomboni
Public Relations Office, (570) 208-5958

July 17, 2017 – Dr. James Wallace has been appointed Associate Dean of Arts and Sciences at King’s College. In his new position, Dr. Wallace will evaluate and improve teaching effectiveness, assist in the process for assessing student learning, and lead strategic initiatives targeted at the enhancement of teaching, learning, and scholarship in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Wallace has been a member of the English Department since 1988 and served a six-year term as department chair. He was recognized for teaching excellence with the College’s prestigious Max and Tillie Rosenn Award for Teaching and held the Manus Cooney Distinguished Service Professorship from 2003-08.

He is currently director of the College’s Writing Center and coordinator for writing courses in the core curriculum. He has been a member of numerous institutional committees and was co-advisor to “The Crown,” the student newspaper. He currently serves outside the college on the steering committee of the Peace and Justice Center of Wilkes-Barre.

An accomplished scholar, Dr. Wallace has published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at national conferences on writing pedagogy, literary studies, critical thinking, and assessment. He is a co-author of “Critical Thinking: A Student’s Introduction.” He has published essays on Faulkner, Ambrose Bierce, and Woody Allen. 

Dr. Wallace earned a bachelor’s degree from Wilkes College and a master’s degree and doctorate in English from Lehigh University.

Wallace.JPG

Dr. James Wallace