2025 « Intercom

Archive for 2025

June 5

Thursday, June 5th, 2025

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it

Proverbs 22:6

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

A review of Howard Markel, The Trials of Charles Darwin (2024), written by Ted Davis, professor emeritus of the history of science, has just been published in Perspectives on Science and Christian Faith (June 2025).

_____

The Registrar’s Office is pleased to announce the following staffing transitions.
It is with sadness (for us) and excitement (for her) that we announce Jill Poole is retiring on June 30. Jill first came to Messiah as a behavioral science major. After graduation, she returned to Messiah and served in a variety of roles: resident director, gifts processor, Student Life office assistant, Service Learning and College Ministries before landing in the Registrar’s Office as the transfer records specialist twenty years ago. Jill has touched literally thousands of lives during her tenure at Messiah. Throughout her career at Messiah, Jill has served others generously and with a prayerful and caring approach. We wish her joy and blessings as she steps into God’s next adventure!

Michelle Glenny has been promoted to transfer records specialist. Michelle joined the Registrar’s Office as the administrative assistant to the registrar in March 2023. Since that time, she has developed into an effective member of our team by asking insightful questions and seeking to improve processes and procedures. In her new role, Michelle will support new, transfer and current students with transfer credit evaluations/processing, evaluate and process off-campus program approvals and transcripts. She will work closely with subject matter experts to determine Messiah course equivalencies.
Please join us in congratulating Michelle on her promotion and wish Jill the best in her retirement.

______

John Yeatts, professor emeritus of the psychology of religion and senior pastor emeritus at Grantham Church, presented his paper, “It Ain’t Over ‘Til It’s Over and Other Theological Teachings of Baseball” to the Baseball and American Culture Symposium at the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York.

AROUND CAMPUS

Badge credentials needed

Conference Services wants to thank all employees who assisted with the undergraduate commencement ceremony. If you volunteered and still have the blue and white credential badge given to you to wear that morning, please return the badge to Jody Brandt in Conference Services at your earliest convenience. Thank you in advance.

Exploring AI in the Workplace: Effectively Using AI Ethically, Legally and Securely

Curious about using AI at work? This workshop introduces generative AI tools like ChatGPT, explains how they work and how to use them ethically, legally and securely. Learn how to generate more effective AI prompts while understanding key risks and best practices for privacy and responsible use. No technical experience is needed. Led by librarians Janet Vogel and Beth Transue, and director of Information Security, Allen Snook.

Date: Monday, June 16
Time: 9 – 10:30 a.m.
Location: Kline 235

Please register in advance. If you plan to use work time, you must obtain supervisor approval.

Change to campus notary services

Notary services through the operations office are temporarily unavailable due to staffing changes. Should you require notary services, please contact Dan Campbell at dcampbell@messiah.edu or Staci Davis at sdavis@messiah.edu. Appointments are required

SSEH Farewells

The following School of Science, Engineering and Health colleagues will be leaving Messiah this summer. These are in addition to the faculty retirements we celebrated together with the COE (Randy Fish, Wanda Thuma-McDermond, Harold Underwood). We in SSEH wish all the best to each of these individuals and thank them for their work. We look forward to welcoming new faculty and staff in the fall.

Nancy Frank, associate professor of nursing, has accepted a position as deputy director of the National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation (NLN CNEA).

Niklas Hellgren, professor of physics and chair of the Department of Computing, Mathematics and Physics has accepted a faculty position at Fresno State University. (Angela Hare will assume the role of interim CMP department chair for 2025-26).

Ben Huang, assistant professor of mathematics, will be joining his wife and newborn daughter in New York and has accepted a position teaching high school mathematics.

Jean McCauslin, administrative assistant to the Department of Engineering, will be retiring June 30.

Jessica Merkert, assistant professor of nursing, will return to part-time clinical practice in her field of pediatric nursing and will enjoy her full-time role as a mother of her two young children.

Martha Stigelman, coordinator of PreHealth Professions Advising, is retiring July 31.

Jeff Stroup, associate professor of nursing, will begin a full-time career as a certified nurse practitioner.

Crowded Lottie Dining Hall dates

Dear Messiah employees,

We are expecting another very busy summer in Lottie due to the high volume of internal and external camps and conferences expected. Conference Service is asking for your help. Please plan to push your lunch time back a bit in Lottie entering between 1-1:30 p.m. on the following dates:

Thursday, June 26
Monday, July 7
Tuesday, July 8
Wednesday, July 9
Thursday, July 10
Tuesday, July 15
Wednesday, July 16
Tuesday, July 22
Wednesday, July 23
Tuesday, July 29
Once again, this summer conference services will label each table for a specific camp or conference group to use when they are eating in Lottie. We are asking employees to find tables that are not marked for one of these groups.
Thanks in advance for helping us provide a welcoming environment for our summer guests. It is very much appreciated!

Medicare Education Webinar

Thursday, June 26, 3 p.m.
Webinar via Zoom
Presenter: Kyle Sadorf of Everence®

As you near retirement, you’ll face important Medicare decisions. Messiah University has partnered with Everence® to help you navigate the process. Join us for a free, informative webinar where an experienced Medicare specialist will guide you through the key steps to understanding your options.

Topics to be covered include:
• The different parts of Medicare
• Understanding your coverage options
• Deciding when to enroll
• How to enroll

To register, visit www.everence.com/messiah or contact
Kyle Sadorf with Everence at 717-394-0769.

Technology Support

Please see below for helpful tips and updates! Contact us by emailing techsupport@messiah.edu regarding any of this information or if you have any questions in general.

Forms – If assistance is required for converting your current xForms to another platform, please contact us for assistance or schedule time directly using our Bookings Page.

Phone tip: While you can dial 0 from a Polycom to get to the operator, you cannot transfer a call back to the operator this way. To transfer a call to the operator, transfer them to either 1000 or 2511 (last 4 of our main number). This applies to the Zoom app as well.

CLASSIFIEDS

Job opportunities

The Vice Provost Student Success and Engagement has an opening for a full-time administrative assistant. Job related questions may be directed to Doug Wood at dwood@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29694.

The Registrar’s Office has an opening for a part-time administrative assistant. Job related questions may be directed to Kathee Clark at kclark@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29633.

Operations has an opening for a full-time administrative assistant to the vice president for operations. Job related questions may be directed to Kathie Shafer at KShafer@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29642.

Athletics has an opening for a part-time assistant women’s lacrosse coach; administrative coordinator and recruiter; game day manager. Job related questions may be directed to Heather McKay at hmckay@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29656.

Graduate Studies: Occupational Therapy has an opening for a temporary – mid-summer – early fall 2025 – administrative assistant, Master of Occupational Therapy Program. Job related questions may be directed to Leanne Rutt at lrutt@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29590.

Financial Aid Office has an opening for a full-time financial aid counselor. Job related questions may be directed to Mike Strite at mstrite@messiah.edu. For more info and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29606.

Department of Nursing has an opening for a part-time patient simulation laboratory (PSL) coordinator. Job related questions may be directed to Laura Lebo at llebo@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29564.

Facility Maintenance has an opening for a full-time general maintenance HVAC technician. Job related questions may be directed to Amy Stephan at astephan@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29554.

The department of General Education is now hiring a full-time administrative assistant to the dean of general education, common learning and academic support and director of assessment. Job related questions may be directed to Kate Oswald Wilkins at koswaldwilkins@messiah.edu.

Admissions has an opening for a part-time admissions hospitality assistant. Job related questions may be directed to Kristin Thomas at kthomas@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29297.

Admissions has an opening for a temporary admissions traveling recruiter. Job related questions may be directed to Shayna Mark at smark@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29304.

The Department of Intellectual Disabilities Certificate has an opening for a full-time NEXT Steps resident life educator. Job related questions may be directed to Amber Brisbane at abrisbane@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29081.

Residence Life has an opening for a full-time residence life educator. Job related questions may be directed to Annastasia Bonczyk at abonczyk@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/28943.

Dining Services has an opening for a full-time culinary assistant. Job related questions may be related to Mark Wirtz at mwirtz@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29548.

Grounds Services has an opening for a part-time groundskeeper. Job related questions may be directed to Mark Graybill at mgraybill@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit:https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29118.

Grounds Services has an opening for a part-time seasonal groundskeeper. Job related questions may be directed to Mark Graybill at mgraybill@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29281.

Grounds Services has an opening for a full-time athletic field spray applicator/aeration coordinator. Job related questions may be directed to Mark Graybill at mgraybill@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29463.

The Department of Safety has an opening for a 1st shift safety officer. Job related questions may be directed to Daniel (Brad) Neuenschwander at dneuenschwander@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/28975.

The Department of Safety has an opening for 2nd shift safety officer/dispatcher. Job related questions may be directed to Daniel (Brad) Neuenschwander at dneuenschwander@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/28594.

For sale

Havaianas flip-flops for sale. US size 6.5-7
“Havaianas are renowned for their durability, comfort, and versatility, earning them a global following. They are also known for their iconic designs, including the signature Greek pattern on the straps and the rice grain pattern on the sole. The brand has evolved from a simple, utilitarian footwear to a fashion statement, with various designs and colorways available.”
asking $25. contact apatton@messiah.edu Thank you.

Haier mini-fridge with separate freezer compartment for $35. 7 years old and has some scratches; works very well. See photos at https://livemessiah-my.sharepoint.com/:f:/g/personal/njfrank_messiah_edu/EpQ4om2Re49Cq9rAcJo9dW4BlHXAvA49s-Gj7uqSzZuHww?e=CZDhgR. Pick up at Messiah. Contact Nancy: njfrank@messiah.edu

FREE

Free bed frame. Adjustable (F/Q) metal bed frame free to good home. Contact: Cynthia: ckearns@messiah.edu

Free Brother Ink Jet Cartridges: Giving away several new/unused Brother inkjet printer cartridges (switched printers and can no longer use). Compatible with printer models: LC20E; MFC J775DW; MFC J985DW; MFC J5920DW. 3 black cartridges, one magenta and one blue. Contact cgross@messiah.edu if interested.

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on June 5

May 29

Thursday, May 29th, 2025

“As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease.”

Genisis 8:22

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Oksana Moroz, assistant professor of English and director of writing, was invited to participate in an expert panel for the Muskie (https://culturalvistas.org/our-programs/internships-fellowships/edmund-s-muskie-professional-fellowship) Alumni Council on the topic of “Teaching Tomorrow: AI’s Role in Reimagining Education” on Wednesday, May 28.

In this panel, Oksana discussed the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence on the educational field and shared insights on how AI is shaping educational practices, improving accessibility and impacting institutional policies.

AROUND CAMPUS

Intercom submissions with photos

When requesting an intercom submission with a photo attachment, future best practices are to attach a word document with embedded photo links. We can no longer save attached photos to the W drive. Our suggestion would be to link photos to a personal site such as google photos. Thank you.

2025 Memory Book

This year’s memory book is now available here: https://indd.adobe.com/view/3d1f9339-bf60-4dd1-b3f3-87f2c2732f16. We are grateful for the contributions of every Messiah University community member and are pleased to recognize those employees reaching important milestones and our performance award recipients. There are a very limited number of hard copies available to retirees and performance award recipients. Please email Staci Davis (sdavis@messiah.edu) if you would like to receive one.

Badge credentials needed

Exploring AI in the Workplace: Effectively Using AI Ethically, Legally and Securely

Curious about using AI at work? This workshop introduces generative AI tools like ChatGPT, explains how they work and how to use them ethically, legally and securely. Learn how to generate more effective AI prompts while understanding key risks and best practices for privacy and responsible use. No technical experience needed. Led by librarians, Janet Vogel and Beth Transue, and director of Information Security, Allen Snook.

Date: Monday, June 16
Time: 9 – 10:30 a.m.
Location: Kline 235

Please register in advance. If you plan to use work time, you must obtain supervisor approval.

Change to campus notary services

CLASSIFIEDS

Job opportunities

Operations has an opening for a full-time administrative assistant to the vice president for Operations. Job related questions may be directed to Kathie Shafer at KShafer@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29642.

Graduate Studies: Occupational Therapy has an opening for a temporary – mid-summer – early fall 2025 – administrative assistant, Master of Occupational Therapy Program. Job related questions may be directed to Leanne Rutt at lrutt@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29590.

Campus and Building Services has an opening for a full-time 3rd shift worker. Job related questions may be directed to Laura Price at lprice@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29531.

Office of the Provost has an opening for a full-time executive assistant. Job related questions may be directed to Christine Gardner at cgardner@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29315.

For sale

Apartment furniture and appliance sale. I am planning to move in the next couple of weeks and need to get rid of some furniture and appliances.

At this time, I am selling a white two drawer nightstand with two USB ports ($25), a white chest of drawers with a built-in mirror at the top that opens/closes ($40), and a gently used Keurig K Duo that has the coffee pot and K cup features ($50). I can send photos of each item to those that are interested. Contact: jchavous@messiah.edu

Household items for sale.

Questions? Please contact Deana at dbaddorf@messiah.edu

Insignia Countertop Microwave

New and in box (box has slight damage on the top)
1 cu. ft., 1,000 watts
Asking $50
Photo link

Whirlpool Electric Range

White; older model in good working condition
220/240v direct connect required
Four coil burners, two large and two small
Asking $50
Photo link

GE Spacemaker XL Over-the-range Microwave

White; 1.4 cu. Ft., 900 watts
Works well
Mounting bracket included
Asking $50
Photo link

Pro-Form Elliptical

In good condition
Asking $50
Photo link

Antique Vanity

Brass and glass vanity with mirror
Asking $200
Photo link

Dream On Me Portable Crib Mattress

New and in box
3” thickness with waterproof hypoallergenic cover
24”x38”
Asking $15
Photo link

Vehicles for sale.

Our family is parting with several vehicles that have been lovingly owned and well-maintained through the years. If you have questions or would like to schedule a time to see one of them, please contact Deana at dbaddorf@messiah.edu

2000 Toyota Sienna XLE Minivan

One owner; 161,000 miles
Accident-free
PA safety and emissions inspection until Feb. 2026
Brand new 50,000-mile all-season tires
New battery in 2025
Automatic transmission, cruise control, anti-lock brakes, airbags, rear temperature control, air conditioning, and 120V inverter
Runs well; good condition
Regular, thorough, documented maintenance
7 passenger: 4 separate captain’s chairs, plus rear seat; middle and rear seats are removable
Exterior color: sailfin blue; interior color: gray
2” hitch receiver
Asking $4,400
Photo link

2009 Toyota Yaris Sedan

One owner; 150,300 miles
Accident-free
PA safety and emissions inspection through Sept. 2025
Battery less than a year old
Good tread on tires
Clutch replaced about 5,000 miles ago
5-speed manual transmission, cruise control, anti-lock brakes, airbags, air conditioning, AUX input for smartphone use
Runs well; good condition
Regular, thorough, documented maintenance
Exterior color: silver; interior color: black
Asking $5,100
Photo link

2007 Toyota Camry Sedan

Two owners; 200,200 miles
Accident-free
PA safety and emissions inspection through March 2026
Automatic transmission, cruise control, airbags, air conditioning, CD player and AUX input for smartphone use
Runs well; good condition; does use oil a bit faster than average – recommend regular oil checks
Regular, thorough, documented maintenance
Exterior color: red; interior color: tan
Asking $3,500
Photo link

FREE

Free bed frame. Adjustable (F/Q) metal bed frame free to good home. Contact: Cynthia: ckearns@messiah.edu

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on May 29

May 22

Thursday, May 22nd, 2025

“If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone.”

Matthew 18: 15-17

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

To help address the global water crisis, Professor of Engineering Dr. Thomas Soerens recently traveled to Washington, D.C. to represent the Accord Network at the National Cathedral where he participated in a workshop entitled TAKING THE LONG VIEW: Sustainable WASH in Faith-Based Healthcare Facilities.

The Accord Network is a community of 150 Christian relief and development organizations – Dr. Soerens currently serves as the chair for the network’s WASH (Water Sanitation and Hygiene) division. While in DC, Dr. Soerens also met with members of congress to advocate for the work of WASH issues and offer Accord as a resource in hopes of creating awareness and help for those in need around the world.

Dr. Soerens is seeking to connect with others on campus who may be interested in learning more about WASH. Please reach out to him at tsoerens@messiah.edu if you would like to know more about how you and/or your students can get involved.

BID FAREWELL

Please join us in celebrating the retirement of Art Palese after twenty-four years of dedicated service working in the Grounds Department at Messiah University. Art has served at Messiah, sharing his expertise as the grounds manager, for the past two years, following his twenty-two years working as one of our grounds crew leaders. Art will remain at Messiah and transition into his new part-time role with our grounds team on June 29.

We invite you all to join us on Tuesday, June 24 from 1-3 p.m. in the Howe Atrium of the Boyer Building to celebrate Art and his many years of dedicated service.

AROUND CAMPUS

Harrisburg day trip

Friends of Murray Library is sponsoring a day trip to Harrisburg on June 18, with behind-the-scenes tours of recently renovated sites, including the PA State Library, Archives, and McCormick Riverfront Library. The trip will conclude with a visit to Midtown Scholar bookstore and café. Registration cost is $30, which includes transportation and catered lunch by Messiah’s Two Bridges Catering. Deadline to register is June 2. Contact Tracy at tsheaffer@messiah.edu with any questions.

Healthy Rewards program – Highmark plan participants

Get rewarded for completing healthy activities!

Take steps towards better health and earn incentives along the way! As a Highmark plan participant, you can earn a $200 digital Amazon gift card by completing 4 healthy activities now through Oct. 31.

To get started, log in to the Highmark member portal either through the app or at MyHighmark.com. Please be advised that in order to gain access to the wellness reward program, you must acknowledge the annual authorization agreement at the bottom of the home screen on your member portal.

Click here to view a flyer on the Be Well $200 rewards program.

2025 Memory Book

Technology Support – Please see below for helpful tips and updates!

Forms – We will be offering several training sessions over the next two weeks for converting xForms to a new platform. To sign up a session, please click here. If these dates and times do not work for you, please schedule using our Bookings Page.

Wednesday, May 21, 9-11 Boyer 135

Thursday, May 22, 2-4 Boyer 135

Friday, May 23, 9-11 Boyer 135

Tuesday, May 27, 2-4 Library Athenaeum

Wednesday, May 28, 9-11 Winding Hill Café

Thursday, May 29, 10-noon 2-4 Library Athenaeum

CLASSIFIEDS

Job opportunities

Campus and Building Services has an opening for a full-time 3rd shift worker. Job related questions may be directed to Laura Price at lprice@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29531.

Department of Nursing has an opening for a part-time patient simulation laboratory (PSL) coordinator. Job related questions may be directed to Laura Lebo at llebo@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29564.

The Financial Aid Office has an opening for a part-time financial aid office assistant. Job related questions may be directed to Mike Strite at mstrite@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29291.

The Office of Development has an opening for a full-time regional advancement representative. Job related questions may be directed to John Zeigler at jzeigler@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/28806.

Dining Services has an opening for a full-time cook II PM. Job related questions may be related to Mark Wirtz at mwirtz@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/28988.

Grounds Services has an opening for a full-time groundskeeper/crew leader. Job related questions may be directed to Mark Graybill at mgraybill@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29534.

For sale

Wall décor. Click here to view. Contact Karen: kgarlinger@messiah.edu

Household items for sale.

Questions? Please contact Deana at dbaddorf@messiah.edu

Insignia Countertop Microwave

New and in box (box has slight damage on the top)
1 cu. ft., 1,000 watts
Asking $50
Photo link

Whirlpool Electric Range

White; older model in good working condition
220/240v direct connect required
Four coil burners, two large and two small
Asking $50
Photo link

GE Spacemaker XL Over-the-range Microwave

White; 1.4 cu. Ft., 900 watts
Works well
Mounting bracket included
Asking $50
Photo link

Pro-Form Elliptical

In good condition
Asking $50
Photo link

Antique Vanity

Brass and glass vanity with mirror
Asking $200
Photo link

Dream On Me Portable Crib Mattress

New and in box
3” thickness with waterproof hypoallergenic cover
24”x38”
Asking $15
Photo link

Vehicles for sale.

2000 Toyota Sienna XLE Minivan

One owner; 161,000 miles
Accident-free
PA safety and emissions inspection until Feb. 2026
Brand new 50,000-mile all-season tires
New battery in 2025
Automatic transmission, cruise control, anti-lock brakes, airbags, rear temperature control, air conditioning, and 120V inverter
Runs well; good condition
Regular, thorough, documented maintenance
7 passenger: 4 separate captains chairs, plus rear seat; middle and rear seats are removable
Exterior color: sailfin blue; interior color: gray
2” hitch receiver
Asking $4,400
Photo link

2009 Toyota Yaris Sedan

One owner; 150,300 miles
Accident-free
PA safety and emissions inspection through Sept. 2025
Battery less than a year old
Good tread on tires
Clutch replaced about 5,000 miles ago
5-speed manual transmission, cruise control, anti-lock brakes, airbags, air conditioning, AUX input for smartphone use
Runs well; good condition
Regular, thorough, documented maintenance
Exterior color: silver; interior color: black
Asking $5,100
Photo link

2007 Toyota Camry Sedan

Two owners; 200,200 miles
Accident-free
PA safety and emissions inspection through March 2026
Automatic transmission, cruise control, airbags, air conditioning, CD player and AUX input for smartphone use
Runs well; good condition; does use oil a bit faster than average – recommend regular oil checks
Regular, thorough, documented maintenance
Exterior color: red; interior color: tan
Asking $3,500
Photo link

For rent

Oakwood Hills apartments. Oakwood Hills wants to help you enjoy your summer in style. Dive into our saltwater pool, perfect for hot summer days. Relax on the covered porch off the clubhouse, a great spot to unwind and watch your favorite team on the TV. Savor delicious meals from frequent food trucks and mingle with friendly neighbors.
Sound appealing? Call our office at 717-590-8883 or email oakwoodhills@rentpmi.com to schedule a tour for your next home. You’re also welcome to stop by our May 31 Open House between 10 a.m. and noon.

Wanted

Air-conditioner units needed. My church is assisting a refugee family that could use some window air-conditioner units for various-sized rooms. If you have one, you’d like to give away or donate, let me know at dzercher@messiah.edu. I’d be glad to pick it up. -David Weaver-Zercher

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on May 22

May 15

Thursday, May 15th, 2025

The Lord will guide you always;
    he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land
    and will strengthen your frame.
You will be like a well-watered garden,
    like a spring whose waters never fail.

Isaiah 58:11

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The article Unlocking Potential: Embracing NeuroDiversity in the Print Industry By Dwayne Magee, director of Messiah Press, was recently published for IPMA blog.

_____

Dr. H. Scott Kieffer accompanied seven undergraduate students: Liliana Greer, Owen Walker, Chase Wilson, Ben Van Deusen, Grace Sagna, Sophia Gray-Baublitz and Bella Tozeau to the American Physiological Society conference on April 25 and 26. The students presented their ongoing research among hundreds of posters from other universities and were able to engage in productive professional development. This research was overseen by Scott Kieffer, Jennifer Thomson and Michael Shin.

Another thank you to Dr. Angela Hare for supporting these students by attending the conference.

______

I am pleased to share that Melinda Barnes is now the project coordinator for Alumni/Parent Relations and Affinity Programs. She had been serving as coordinator for Giving Programs as part of our Annual Giving team. Melinda is an exceptional colleague who has worked within the Advancement Division for the past 8 years. Melinda is kind, competent and an ideal representative of Messiah to welcome alumni and parents to campus, particularly during Homecoming (a significant aspect of her new duties). Her new office is in the Alumni/Parent Relations suite on the second floor of the Phipps Admissions and Welcome Center. We are currently working to hire her replacement in Annual Giving.

I am also pleased to share that Emily Lint is now the executive assistant to the vice president for advancement. Emily has been a valued team member within the Advancement Division for the past 13 years, most recently as the project coordinator for Alumni/Parent Relations and Affinity Programs. We welcomed her back to Old Main in Room 221. In her role in support of the vice president for advancement, Emily will also provide administrative support to the Messiah Business Institute. Emily’s organizational skills, kind heart and humor will serve her well in this new role.

Finally, I am sad to announce that Day Fogarty, senior regional advancement representative, is leaving Messiah as of next week. For the past two years, Day has helped to forge donor relationships both locally and in the greater Philadelphia region. She has been a wonderful asset to our frontline fundraising team, and we wish her all the best in her new ventures. We are grateful that part of her vocational journey included time at Messiah. We will be working to hire her replacement in the coming weeks as well.

Jon C. Stuckey
Vice President for Advancement

AROUND CAMPUS

School of Graduate and Professional Studies Commencement

Saturday, May 17, 11 a.m.
Brubaker Auditorium, Eisenhower Campus Center

Schedule and details

The full schedule for the 2025 Commencement Ceremony for the School of Graduate & Professional Studies is posted online at messiah.edu/gradcommencement. This website will also provide a live video stream of the Commencement ceremony.

Members of the School of Graduate and Professional Studies faculty should have already received information from the Office of the Provost regarding their participation in Commencement. Faculty, staff and administrators who are participating in the Commencement ceremony should also have received a memo regarding their role in the ceremony from the Commencement Committee.

Parking

Parking lots YY (beside the Welcome Center) VV (the visitor’s lot) and TT (along the railroad tracks) and Sollenberger Sports Center will be the primary guest parking lot for this event.

COE and employees may park in the ZZ lot (between the High Center and Old Main and surrounding Old Main). There will be no reserved parking passes issued for this event.

If you have any questions regarding the School of Graduate and Professional Studies Commencement, please contact Jody Brandt, co-chair of the Commencement Committee, at ext. 6890 or jbrandt@messiah.edu.

Cybersecurity student presents at Cybersecurity Conference

Messiah senior cybersecurity student Carolina Hatch presented her honors research project at the recent Harrisburg BSides conference, held on April 25 at the PA Farm Show Complex. Her session was titled “Synthetic vs. Real-World Data: A Study in Data Poisoning and its Effects,” and focused on how the AI models can be susceptible to false information. Dr. Bibighaus (her research advisor) and a group of Messiah students attended the event to support Carolina and experience the regional conference for cybersecurity professionals, hackers and enthusiasts.

Congratulations to Carolina on an outstanding presentation!

Fiscal year end information

Messiah University’s fiscal year ends on Monday, June 30. Transactions made in the final months of the fiscal year typically require extra attention to ensure that expenses are recorded in the appropriate fiscal year. Please review the timeline for purchasing, purchasing cards (P-card and DB-card), and accounts payable below and call 717-691-6010 with questions or concerns. We sincerely thank you for your cooperation.

PURCHASING
Now through June 13

Orders:

Purchase as needed. Stockpiling supplies (including office supplies, T-shirts, chairs, standing desks, etc.) to spend your entire budget is prohibited.

Deliveries:

Communicate definitive delivery dates with suppliers. Purchases must be received on campus by Monday, June 30 to be expensed in the FY25 budget. Please complete the receiving process in One$ource as soon as items arrive on campus. Be sure to update the receiving note stating the date you received the item. Purchases received on campus July 1 or later will be expensed in the FY26 budget. This is required by accounting principles, and we cannot make exceptions to this policy.

Open purchase orders:

Budget managers should check the status of open purchase orders. Select the “encumbrance” column on the Self-Service Budget Query.

Contact Purchasing to close any open POs that should not be rolled to FY26.

Examples of POs that should be closed:

Blanket PO where the final delivery for the year has been made
PO where goods have not and will never be delivered
PO where the invoice price was lower than the amount entered on the PO

Thursday, June 12

Last day that requisitions for items to be expensed to the FY25 budget are entered – see delivery information above.

Friday, June 13

Budget managers should approve or deny all requisitions in their queue by 5 p.m.

Monday, June 16 – Friday, June 20

Please contact Purchasing for assistance with urgent requisitions for items that will positively be received by Monday, June 30, and are to be expensed to the FY25 budget.

Requisitions for items to be expensed to the FY26 budget and FY26 blanket orders can be entered at this time, however, items must not be delivered to campus prior to July 1. This must be communicated to suppliers in the delivery notes section of the requisition. Also, please note in the justification section that the requisition is for FY26. The effective date for FY26 blanket orders must be 7/1/25 or later.

Tuesday, July 1

Requisitions for FY25 goods and services cannot be entered during FY26. Please contact Purchasing for assistance.

Continue to enter FY26 requisitions and blanket orders.

PURCHASING CARD (P-CARD AND DB-CARD)

Cardholders

Allocate all June purchasing card transactions by end-of-day Thursday, July 3. Please allocate posted July transactions at this time as well.

If June purchases are for FY26 (example: conference registration for a conference that takes place between July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026), please begin the description with “FY26” and email accounting@messiah.edu with the date, amount, and coding for the transaction. Accounting will make an entry so FY26 funds are used.
If July purchases are for items received before Monday, June 30, please begin the description with “FY25.”

Approvers

Approve all purchasing card transactions by end-of-day Wednesday, July 9. Please approve allocated July transactions at this time as well.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE

Now through Friday, July 13

Invoice Processing

If you receive an invoice, please email it to accountspayable@messiah.edu.

Submit all employee and student reimbursements, and expense reimbursements for speakers or contracted services from FY25.

Accounting principles require that all goods and services must be expensed in the year that they are delivered or performed, NOT when the invoice is received. If you have purchased goods or services that were delivered or performed by Monday, June 30, but do not have an invoice, please contact Accounts Payable for guidance.

Friday, July 11

Final day to submit FY25 invoices to Accounts Payable for processing and payment.

Final day to submit employee and student reimbursements, and expense reimbursements for speakers or contracted services from FY25.

If you receive an invoice for FY25 goods or services after this date, please email it to accountspayable@messiah.edu immediately, noting that it is for FY25.

Healthy Rewards program – Highmark plan participants

Get rewarded for completing healthy activities!

Click here to view a flyer on the Be Well $200 rewards program.

Exciting news from the Cyber Center!

We are pleased to announce that three of our talented students have been awarded the prestigious DoD CSA Scholarship for the upcoming 2025-26 academic year! Our students’ dedication to cybersecurity and commitment to excellence have truly set them apart.

The scholarship award includes a full scholarship, stipend for living expenses, summer internships and employment after graduation.

Join us in celebrating this significant achievement for our students. Their hard work and passion for advancing cybersecurity are inspiring to all of us. Here’s to the bright futures awaiting them in the field of cybersecurity! Congratulations!

Fiscal year end deadlines

CLASSIFIEDS

Job opportunities

Department of Nursing has an opening for a part-time patient simulation laboratory (PSL) coordinator. Job related questions may be directed to Laura Lebo at llebo@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29564.

The department of General Education is now hiring a full-time administrative assistant to the dean of general education, Common Learning and Academic Support and director of assessment. Job related questions may be directed to Kate Oswald Wilkins at koswaldwilkins@messiah.edu.

Development – Annual Giving has an opening for a full-time administrative assistant for Giving Programs. Job related questions may be directed to Tovah Wilson at twilson@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29311.

Grounds Services has an opening for a part-time groundskeeper. Job related questions may be directed to Mark Graybill at mgraybill@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit :https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29118

Grounds Services has an opening for a full-time athletic field spray applicator/aeration coordinator. Job related questions may be directed to Mark Graybill at mgraybill@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29463.

For rent

Wanted

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on May 15

May 8

Thursday, May 8th, 2025

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

Deuteronomy 31: 6

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

______

Initially established as the Barnabas Award, the S.R. Smith Servant-Leader Award is given annually by the Agapé Center to those who enrich our educational community, promoting the ideals of service that substantially benefit others.

This year’s employee recipient is Tina Keller, associate professor of TESOL and chair of the education department. Tina has exhibited a heart of Servant Leadership through her active participation and support of the refugee community in the Harrisburg area. Congratulations, Tina!

BID FAREWELL

Please join us in celebrating the retirement of Linda Gemberling after 16 years of dedicated service to the graduate program of counseling. Linda faithfully served as an adjunct faculty member and practicum supervisor for 13 years, and for the past three years, she brought her deep expertise in school counseling to her role as field placement assistant coordinator, where she skillfully supported and placed graduate students in distant internship sites. In 2022, Linda was honored with the Adjunct Teaching Award, a testament to her exceptional commitment to student learning and mentorship. A small gathering will be held within the department to recognize Linda’s many contributions and to wish her well in this next chapter—she will be deeply missed!

_____

Wanda Thuma-McDermond, PhD, RN, professor of nursing, is retiring after 23 years of service at Messiah. Wanda taught the community health and global health courses and initiated the senior clinical experience option at Macha Mission Hospital in Macha, Zambia, in 2007. Over the last 18 years, Wanda has taken hundreds of Messiah nursing students to Zambia for their senior clinical experience which has been life changing for many students. Wanda was passionate about the community-based Wellness Centers. She launched two community-based Wellness Centers, one in Mechanicsburg in 2007 and another Wellness Center in Dillsburg in 2009. Wanda’s sense of humor and creative pedagogy will be missed! Other faculty departing in May include Jeff Stroup, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC, CEN, associate professor of nursing and Jessica Merkert, MSN, RN, CPN, assistant professor of Nnursing, clinical track. Dr. Stroup started as an adjunct in 2010 and joined full-time in 2014 to teach critical care and med-surg nursing. He will be starting as a nurse practitioner at UPMC Pinnacle Health FamilyCare Lower Paxton. Jessica started as an adjunct in 2021 and joined full-time in 2023. She plans to spend more time with her husband and growing family. We will miss them dearly and will always treasure their contributions to the Department of Nursing. We wish them all the best in the next phases of their lives!

Kristen Slabaugh, DNP, CRNP, FNP-BC, CNE
Assistant Dean of Nursing

AROUND CAMPUS

Employee recognition picnic – Monday, May 12

All employees are invited to come to Larsen Student Union anytime between 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. to enjoy lunch (food trucks), fellowship and games. This picnic is a time to recognize our celebrated colleagues and provide an opportunity for our employee community to say farewell to Kim Phipps!

Important undergraduate commencement information for employees

Schedule and details

Messiah University will be hosting Commencement weekend for the undergraduate Class of 2025 on May 9-10.

To view schedule/details for the Candlelight Service of Worship and Celebration (formerly Baccalaureate) on Friday, May 9, visit https://www.messiah.edu/info/20302/events/384/baccalaureate.
To view schedule/details for the Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 10, visit https://www.messiah.edu/info/20302/events/401/commencement_ceremony.

Members of the Community of Educators should have already received information from the Provost’s Office regarding their participation in Commencement weekend. Faculty, staff and administrators who are participating in the Commencement ceremony itself have received, or will soon receive, an email memo regarding their role in the ceremony from the Commencement Committee. If you have any questions regarding Commencement, please contact Carla Gross, co-chair of the Undergraduate Commencement Committee, at ext. 6940 or cgross@messiah.edu.

Important employee parking information for Baccalaureate (Friday, May 9)

From 6 a.m. until 10 p.m., the VV (Visitor’s lot) will be closed to employees so families of our graduates have access to parking for Commencement-related activities.

For the Candlelight Service, Department of Safety personnel will direct guests to designated parking areas on campus. Guests will walk to Eisenhower Campus Center. There is no shuttle service provided that evening. Note: Messiah employees do not receive reserved parking for Baccalaureate. It is also important to note that Baccalaureate is a ticketed event; see the Commencement web site for details.

If you have questions regarding parking for guests with a disability, visit https://www.messiah.edu/info/20305/visitor_resources/407/parking.

Important employee parking information for Commencement day (Saturday, May 10).

Members of the Community of Educators and other employees who are marching in the processional or participating in the Commencement ceremony will receive a reserved parking pass via campus mail from the Provost’s Office (educators) or directly from their supervisor (staff/administrators). Drivers MUST show their parking pass to traffic control personnel upon entering campus to be directed to their designated reserved parking areas.
All other employees who will be working the Commencement ceremony will receive parking instructions with their assignment.

Due to the significantly increased volume of traffic on campus for Commencement, the Department of Safety strongly encourages all employees to arrive on campus no later than 8:15 a.m. in order to alleviate being delayed in traffic, and to assist in being directed to their reserved parking areas on campus.
It is also extremely important to follow all parking directions and instructions from safety personnel while entering and leaving campus, as traffic conditions can change quickly and officers are not able to stop traffic flow to have conversation with individual drivers.
An important reminder—employees are not permitted to schedule vendor visits, pick-ups or deliveries on the day of Commencement as it interferes with the increased and altered traffic flow on campus that day.

Retirement plan

Messiah University offers any employee regularly scheduled to work at least 1,000 hours each year the opportunity to participate in the University’s 403(b) retirement plan and receive a matching contribution from the University. Specifically, employees contributing at least 2.5% of their base pay receive matching contributions of at least 3.0% from the University and those matching contributions become fully vested after two years of employment. Our retirement plan’s financial education partners (Denny Browne and Andy Grace of Capital View Wealth Management) will be sending out an email next week inviting employees to learn more about participating in the University’s retirement plan. There is no charge for employees to meet individually with Denny and/or Andy. Their contact information is:
Capital View Wealth Management
650 North 12th Street, Suite 100
Lemoyne, PA 17043
Phone: 717-516-8334
Email: denny.browne@capitalviewwealth.com

Cybersecurity student presents at Cybersecurity Conference

Congratulations to Carolina on an outstanding presentation!

Technology Support: Did you know?

May Development Week and throughout the summer is a great time for a laptop tune-up! Please contact us at techsupport@messiah.edu, or call 717-796-4444 to make an appointment. On campus but no appointment? No problem! Unscheduled drop-offs are also an option and are completed on a first-come, first-served basis. We will run updates on your laptop and can address any issues that you have found yourself ‘living with’ all year. Tune-ups may take two or more hours to complete, and laptops can be dropped off and picked up at the Tech Support office in Old Main.
As the end of the semester is approaching and we’re cleaning out, please remember the Office of Information Security provides shredding.  Please bring all paper for shredding directly to our location in the basement of Old Main (High Center side) OM009 to be shredded. Someone will be available for drop-off from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. during the week. Special arrangements (e.g., shredding pick-up) can be made by calling Allen Snook, director of Information Security, at ext. 6790.

Harrisburg day trip

CLASSIFIEDS

Job opportunities

The department of General Education is now hiring a full-time administrative assistant to the dean of General Education, Common Learning and Academic Support and director of Assessment. Job related questions may be directed to Kate Oswald Wilkins at koswaldwilkins@messiah.edu.

Office of the Provost has an opening for a full-time executive assistant. Job related questions may be directed to Christine Gardner at cgardner@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29315.

The Financial Aid Office has an opening for a part-time financial aid office assistant. Job related questions may be directed to Mike Strite at mstrite@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29291.

Admissions has an opening for a part-time admissions hospitality assistant. Job related questions may be directed to Kristin Thomas at kthomas@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29297.

Admissions has an opening for a temporary admissions traveling recruiter. Job related questions may be directed to Shayna Mark at smark@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29304.

The Department of Intellectual Disabilities Certificate has an opening for a full-time NEXT Steps resident life educator. Job related questions may be directed to Amber Brisbane at abrisbane@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29081.

Residence Life has an opening for a full-time residence life educator. Job related questions may be directed to Annastasia Bonczyk at abonczyk@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/28943.

The Office of Development has an opening for a full-time regional advancement representative. Job related questions may be directed to John Zeigler at jzeigler@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/28806.

Dining Services has an opening for a full-time cook II PM. Job related questions may be related to Mark Wirtz at mwirtz@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit:https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/28988.

Grounds Services has an opening for a part-time seasonal groundskeeper. Job related questions may be directed to Mark Graybill at mgraybill@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29281.

Grounds Services has an opening for a full-time athletic field spray applicator/ aeration coordinator. Job related questions may be directed to Mark Graybill at mgraybill@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29463.

The Department of Safety has an opening for a 1st shift safety officer. Job related questions may be directed to Daniel (Brad) Neuenschwander at dneuenschwander@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/28975.

The Department of Safety has an opening for 2nd shift safety officer/dispatcher. Job related questions may be directed to Daniel (Brad) Neuenschwander at dneuenschwander@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/28594.

For sale

Ice pop holders, great for kids. Kids love these ice pop holders, $6 each or 2 for $10, name included. Contact Stacy: sportko@messiah.edu

Two metal outdoor chairs with cushions. These are black metal patio chairs with a cream-colored cushion. The chairs are still in the box and need assembled, so they are BRAND NEW! Asking $80 for the set. Contact Heather Seaman: hseaman@messiah.edu

Free

FREE wood pallets are available for pickup. Take one or take them all! Several FREE skids are available at the bottom of the Campus Store/Mail Services delivery ramp (beyond TT lot around the back of Sollenberger Sports Center/ECC). Contact the Campus Store with any questions or if you need further directions.

Wanted

Housing needed for new faculty. We have a fairly pressing housing need for a new faculty member. Our new colleague in communication just defended her dissertation at Mizzou, and as a consequence she has to be out of student housing in about two weeks. She would like to find either temporary housing or even a long-term rental here for herself and her two children, a girl age 9 and a boy age 7.

If you have any ideas, could you contact me (ddixon@messiah.edu), and I’ll put you in touch with her directly (rather than putting her contact information on this more public forum).

Ink jet printer. Looking for a color ink jet printer, preferably not an HP. Please contact Stacy: sportko@messiah.edu

Car for sale. An international student at Messiah is looking for a car to get to their internship this summer. The student is willing to pay anywhere from $3000 – $5000. They are most interested in a Honda or Toyota with higher mileage, but willing to look at other cars as well. Please contact Amy Nicols Villeda (anicolsvilleda@messiah.edu or x2172) if you or anyone you know is selling a car. Thank you!

OUTSIDE ORGANIZATIONS

Susquehanna Chorale to present its 2025 Spring Concert Series, My Spirit Sang All Day

The Susquehanna Chorale will present its spring concert series, My Spirit Sang All Day, on May 16, 17, and 18, under the direction of Linda L. Tedford.

The series begins on Friday, May 16 at Derry Presbyterian Church, Hershey, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, May 17 at Market Square Presbyterian Church in Harrisburg, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, May 18 at the Calvin and Janet High Center for Performing Arts, Messiah University, 4 p.m.

My Spirit Sang All Day features a varied and wonderful collection of pieces including sacred selections by Hubert Parry’s triumphant I Was Glad and Psalm 90 by Charles Ives, John Rutter’s God Be In My Head, and Shawn Kirchner’s energetic and uplifting Cornerstone. You’ll also hear Elaine Hagenberg’s The Music of Stillness, Eric Whitacre’s Sing Gently, and Randall Stroop’s Omnia Sol, followed by delightful songs including Short People, What Shall We Do With The Drunken Sailor, and Buffalo Gals. Let your spirit sing with us in a concert that reflects all the colors found in the kaleidoscope of our lives.

A pre-concert recital by Susquehanna Chorale accompanist, Daniel L. Dorty will be presented 15 minutes prior to each performance.

Visit www.susquehannachorale.org/performances or call the Messiah University Box Office at 717-691-6036, option 1, for tickets and information.

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on May 8

May 1

Thursday, May 1st, 2025

For the word of God is living and active.

Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.

Hebrews 4:12

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Faculty members Seth Burkert, Anne Reeve, Angela Hare and Roseann Sachs recently attended and accompanied six students as they presented their research at the National American Chemical Society meeting, in San Diego, March 22-27. Izzy Stults, Shelby Wendling, Maggie Hosler, Abigail Barnes, Alex Hutchinson and Olivia Call presented their work, mentored on campus by Roseann Sachs, Janet Matanguihan, Seth Burkert, Anne Reeve, Jesse Kleingardner and Rick Schaeffer.

________

Dwayne Safer, associate professor of finance, recently served as a guest lecturer at The Yale School of Management (New Haven, CT) on April 25 working with MBA students on Excel financial modeling techniques and functions.

BID FAREWELL

Join us for a farewell reception celebrating Dr. Rob Pepper on May 16! Light refreshments, cake and punch will be served from 2 – 4 p.m. in the Phipps Admissions and Welcome Center Board of Trustees room 310. Formal remarks from Messiah Men’s Lacrosse Coach Dan Carson and President Kim Phipps will be given at 3:15 p.m. Feel free to come and go as your schedule allows.

________

John and Debbie Chopka – Farewell Celebration!

We are so excited to celebrate John and Debbie Chopka for their many years of service to Messiah University! We look forward to wishing them well on their new adventure in Florida to be closer to family as John becomes vice president of enrollment management and marketing at Ringling College of Art and Design. To celebrate the Chopkas and all they have done to serve the Messiah community, please join us for their farewell party on Thursday, May 8 from 2-4 p.m. in PAWC 310 with remarks at 3 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.

________

Please join us for a farewell reception for Sarah Axtman, coordinator for Student Success and Engagement/admin assistant, on Tuesday May 6, from 2-4 p.m. at the Union Fireside reception area. All guests are invited to come and go based on their availability to thank Sarah for her 3 years of faithful service at Messiah in the Division of Student Success and Engagement. Sarah’s last day will be May 7. We hope you can join us for refreshments and fellowship as we celebrate Sarah and wish her well on the journey ahead.

________

Dr. Joseph Huffman, currently distinguished professor of history, will retire this year after serving Messiah University for more than 30 years. Since joining the faculty in 1994, he has established himself as an internationally recognized scholar of Medieval and Renaissance Europe. He is the author of four books on the Rhineland and Anglo-German relations that include his recently published magnum opus titled Medieval Cologne: From Rhineland Metropolis to European City (A.D. 1125–1475), and nearly 200 articles, papers, and reviews. Joseph’s devotion to the study of languages such as Latin and German has made him a model of humanistic inquiry, research, and writing. In addition to his scholarship, excellence in teaching, and faith-inspired service, Dr. Huffman has worked in several administrative roles on campus as dean of the School of Humanities (now School of Arts, Culture and Society), co-founder and director of the Center for Public Humanities, and chair, Department of History. We wish him the very best as he transitions into this new chapter in life.

AROUND CAMPUS

Employee recognition picnic – Monday, May 12

All employees are invited to come to Larsen Student Union anytime between 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to enjoy lunch (food trucks), fellowship and games. This picnic is a time to recognize our celebrated colleagues and provide an opportunity for our employee community to say farewell to Kim Phipps!

Messiah University Department of Theatre and Dance presents: “Culmination ’25” Spring Dance Concert

Messiah University’s Department of Theatre and Dance is proud to present the spring dance concert “Culmination ’25” on May 2 and 3! Celebrate spring and the dance accomplishments of Messiah University’s theatre and dance department in an offering of favorite dance pieces from the year, new faculty work, student adjudicated creations and senior capstone projects all in one fun and glorious dance concert!

Culmination ’25
Spring dance concert
Directed by Gregg Hurley

May 2 at 8 p.m.
May 3 at 2 p.m.
Miller Theater, Climenhaga Building

Estimated run time: 2 hours, including one 15-minute intermission

Tickets: $10—Adults; $7—MU Students (w/ID), MU Employees (w/ID), Youth (under 18) and Seniors (60+) Tickets can be purchased online at messiah.edu/tickets, by phone at 717-691-6036, or at the door as available. Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more.

School of Science, Engineering and Health symposium

The 22nd Annual Symposium of the School of Science, Engineering and Health will be held on Friday, May 2 in Frey, Jordan and Kline academic buildings. The work of more than 269 co-authors (students from within the school, off campus collaborators and Messiah University faculty mentors) will be represented in 86 presentations. Oral and poster presentations will be given in multiple venues throughout the afternoon. A detailed schedule and program is available on the Symposium website at: https://www.messiah.edu/sehsymposium

Celebrate the work, creativity and innovation reflected in the rich and diverse variety of oral and poster presentations. Many presentations will describe basic or applied research projects and represent the culmination of months (or years) of effort by graduating seniors. Several presentations will highlight how talents and resources are being used to address needs in the developing world. Plan to join us to celebrate the accomplishments of the students!

Are you REAL ID ready?

On May 7, you will need a REAL ID compliant license—or another form of federally accepted identification—to fly within the United States.

Do you need a REAL ID?

Obtaining a REAL ID is optional. However, without one, you will not be permitted to board domestic flights unless you have another form of federally accepted identification.

How do I get a REAL ID?

View this link (https://www.dhs.gov/real-id) to begin the process of applying for a REAL ID.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact the Agapé Center (Off-Campus Programs) at agapecenter@messiah.edu or by phone at ext. 7255.

2025 Boyer and Wittlinger recipients announced

The Boyer Legacy and Wittlinger Awards section committee, which is comprised of Cynthia Wells, Devin Manzullo-Thomas and Jon Stuckey, is pleased to announce the 2025 recipients. We had a particularly stellar list of candidates this year.

2025 Boyer Legacy Award: Francyne Nichols

The Ernest L. Boyer Center annually bestows a Messiah University junior with this award in honor of the legacy of Ernest L. Boyer, Sr. Recipients demonstrate Dr. Boyer’s broad accomplishments and convictions, including his passionate commitment to viewing education as a means to solving societal challenges and his ardent emphasis that leadership is grounded in service.

This year’s recipient is Francyne Nichols. Thank you to Ling Dinse who nominated Francyne for the award.

2025 Class of 1964 Carlton Wittlinger Award: Ester Moyo

A graduate of Messiah Junior College in 1935, Dr. Wittlinger returned to Messiah and served over 35 years as a teacher and visionary administrator. The Class of 1964 Wittlinger Award seeks to honor students who demonstrate Dr. Carlton Wittlinger’s broad academic accomplishments, including his qualities of persistence and unselfish dedication, as they pursue and develop their own leadership skills.

This year’s recipient is Ester Moyo. Thank you to Bernardo Michael, Amy Nicols Villeda and Bryce Watkins who nominated Ester for the award.

Both awards carry a $2,000 cash prize.

We are grateful to the COE for all nominations and look forward to another round of awards in 2026!

Technology Support: Did you know?

Shared data with students – When students graduate, you may lose files/information shared with you by the student. Please work with the owner of the information to ensure you have access to the data after graduation.
Over the summer months, the tech support team may be updating work study and adjunct desktop computers to new hardware and new software. Please remind adjunct and student employees to make sure they do not keep data stored on the hard drive of the computers, and please leave all computers turned on and equipment plugged in.
May Development Week and throughout the summer is a great time for a laptop tune-up! Please contact us at techsupport@messiah.edu, or call 717-796-4444 to make an appointment. On campus but no appointment? No problem! Unscheduled drop-offs are also an option and are completed on a first-come, first-served basis. We will run updates on your laptop and can address any issues that you have found yourself ‘living with’ all year. Tune-ups may take two or more hours to complete, and laptops can be dropped off and picked up at the Tech Support office in Old Main.

May library newsletter

What’s new at the library? Read our latest newsletter.

Contents of our May newsletter include:

Friends of Murray Library student research grant awardee
Murray Library receives $20,000 grant
Harrisburg day trip
Librarians share about genealogy
Friends Spotlight: Libby Coldsmith
Exam Cram
Murray Library participates in Service Day
Seed Library newsletter

CLASSIFIEDS

Job opportunities

Department of Communication has an opening for an assistant professor of public relations. Job related questions can be directed to David Dixon at ddixon@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/28514

The Department of Education has an opening for a full-time faculty in education. Job related questions may be directed to Ashley Thomas at amthomas@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: jobs.messiah.edu/postings/27681

The Department of Computing, Mathematics and Physics has an opening for a part-time adjunct physics instructor. Job related questions may be directed to Niklas Hellgren at nhellgren@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29013

Free

FREE wood pallets are available for pickup. Take one or take them all! Several FREE skids are available at the bottom of the Campus Store/Mail Services delivery ramp (beyond TT Lot around the back of Sollenberger Sports Center/ECC). Contact the Campus Store with any questions or if you need further directions.

Wanted

Wanted: car for sale. An international student at Messiah is looking for a car to get to their internship this summer. The student is willing to pay anywhere from $3000 – $5000. They are most interested in a Honda or Toyota with higher mileage, but willing to look at other cars as well. Please contact Amy Nicols Villeda (anicolsvilleda@messiah.edu or x2172) if you or anyone you know is selling a car. Thank you!

OUTSIDE ORGANIZATIONS

Susquehanna Chorale to present its 2025 Spring Concert Series, My Spirit Sang All Day

The Susquehanna Chorale will present its spring concert series, My Spirit Sang All Day, on May 16, 17, and 18, under the direction of Linda L. Tedford.

A pre-concert recital by Susquehanna Chorale accompanist, Daniel L. Dorty will be presented 15 minutes prior to each performance.

Visit www.susquehannachorale.org/performances or call the Messiah University Box Office at 717-691-6036, option 1, for tickets and information.

Susquehanna Chorale Invites Auditions for its Educational Outreach Program

The Susquehanna Chorale Educational Outreach Program is holding auditions for young singers to participate in the 2025-2026 season. Established in 1989 under the direction of Linda Tedford, the founder, artistic director, and conductor of the esteemed Susquehanna Chorale, this program, offered in the Fall, is a unique and unparalleled educational experience for students throughout central Pennsylvania. The program culminates in a Youth Choral Festival held the weekend before Thanksgiving.

Students in grades 8 through first year of college are invited to apply to the following choir options:
Susquehanna Children’s Chorale (4th – 8th grade)
Susquehanna Youth Chorale (9th grade – first year of college)
Susquehanna Alta Voce Chorale (higher/upper voices 9th grade- first year of college)

Auditions are scheduled for late May and early June. Complete application instructions are available on the Susquehanna Chorale website: www.susquehannachorale.org/eop-audition-resources

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on May 1

April 24

Thursday, April 24th, 2025

“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.”

Ephesians 5:8

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Dr. Brenda Elliott, director of the graduate program in nursing, was invited to present at a special session of the national Nursing Education Research Conference (NERC) in Washington, D.C., on “Building a successful team in nursing education research.” Her co-author on this project was Dr. Katie A. Chargualaf, University of South Carolina.

Brenda also engaged in two additional podium presentations during the conference. “A qualitative analysis of faculty experiences teaching RN-BS students” was co-authored with colleagues from The College of St. Scholastica. Minnesota; The University of Texas at Tyler; and Minnesota State University Moorhead. “Preparing nursing faculty to teach military veteran’s care” was co-authored with colleagues from The University of South Carolina and Widener University.

Brenda’s connections with nursing faculty at other institutions and presence at national conferences such as NERC evidences the reputation of our graduate nursing program. It is gratifying to acknowledge and honor her accomplishments in this arena.

Kristen Slabaugh, assistant dean of nursing

______

Emerson Powery, dean of the School of Arts, Culture and Society and Jason Renn, associate professor of politics, attended the National Conference on Undergraduate Research (NCUR) in Pittsburgh on April 7 – 9. They accompanied three students, Ethan Reiser “The Literary Analysis of Video Games as Texts: Psychoanalysis and Postcolonialism in Disco Elysium,” Heidi Swartley “Got God? When Spirituality Meets Behaviorism” and Bella Farrington “When Trauma Lasts: How the Histories We Carry Shape Us” who presented their undergraduate research projects. NCUR is unique because it offers students from all disciplines and institutions of higher education the chance to showcase their work on a national stage. This was a fantastic opportunity for our Messiah students to present their work and network with 3,600 students and faculty.

BID FAREWELL

John and Debbie Chopka – Farewell Celebration!

We are so excited to celebrate John and Debbie Chopka for their many years of service to Messiah University! We look forward to wishing them well on their new adventure in Florida to be closer to family as John becomes vice president of enrollment management and marketing at Ringling College of Art and Design. To celebrate the Chopkas and all they have done to serve the Messiah community, please join us for their farewell party on Thursday, May 8 from 2-4 p.m. in PAWC 310 with remarks at 3 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.

AROUND CAMPUS

Messiah University Department of Theatre and Dance presents: The Spring Senior Series

Messiah University’s Department of Theatre and Dance is proud to present the second part of “The Spring Senior Series”, an evening of performance created and presented by department seniors featuring Tzeniah Frazier.

The Spring Senior Series
April 24- 25 at 8 p.m.
Poorman Black Box Theater, Climenhaga Building

“The Ultimate Worship Experience: Phases of Life”
Created by Tzeniah Frazier

Tickets are $5 and can be purchased online at messiah.edu/tickets, by phone at 717-691-6036, or at the door as available.

Messiah University Department of Theatre and Dance presents: “Culmination ’25” Spring Dance Concert

Culmination ’25
Spring dance concert
Directed by Gregg Hurley

May 2 at 8 p.m.
May 3 at 2 p.m.
Miller Theater, Climenhaga Building

Estimated run time: 2 hours, including one 15-minute intermission

Haydn’s “Creation”

April 25, 7:30 p.m., Parmer Hall

Pre-concert Lecture at 7 p.m.
Q&A Talkback following the concert

CLASSIFIEDS

Job opportunities

The Office of the Provost has an opening for a full-time executive assistant. Job related questions may be directed to Christine Gardner at cgardner@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29315.

The Financial Aid Office has an opening for a part-time financial aid office assistant. Job related questions may be directed to Mike Strite at mstrite@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29291.

Admissions have an opening for a part-time admissions hospitality assistant. Job related questions may be directed to Kristin Thomas at kthomas@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29297.

Graduate Enrollment and Student Services has an opening for a full-time enrollment communication coordinator. Job related questions may be directed to Diane Titter at dtitter@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29102.

Development – Annual Giving has an opening for a full-time administrative assistant for Giving Programs. Job related questions may be directed to Tovah Wilson at twilson@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29311.

Residence Life has an opening for a temporary summer residence director. Job related questions may be directed to Annastasia Bonczyk at abonczyk@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/28958.

Facility Maintenance has an opening for a full-time general maintenance mechanic (zone). Job related questions may be directed to Amy Stephan at astephan@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29089.

Campus and Building Services has an opening for a full-time Campus and Building services worker, Residence Hall. Job related questions may be directed to Laura Price at lprice@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29048.

Department of Communication has an opening for an assistant professor of public relations. Job related questions can be directed to David Dixon at ddixon@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/28514

The Department of Education has an opening for a full-time faculty in education. Job related questions may be directed to Ashley Thomas at amthomas@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: jobs.messiah.edu/postings/27681

The Department of Computing, Mathematics and Physics has an opening for a part-time adjunct physics instructor. Job related questions may be directed to Niklas Hellgren at nhellgren@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29013

For sale

Ice pop holders, great for kids. Kids love these ice pop holders, $6 each or 2 for $10, name included. Contact Stacy: sportko@messiah.edu

Wanted

Baskets. I am looking for small to medium baskets. If you have baskets, you know longer need, please let me know at rfeather@messiah.edu.

Ink jet printer. Looking for a color ink jet printer, preferably not an HP. Please contact Stacy: sportko@messiah.edu

OUTSIDE ORGANIZATIONS

Menkis Works Pottery Spring Open Studio and Pottery Sale

Saturday, April 26, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Menkis Works Pottery
2401 Arcona Road, Mechanicsburg PA

Menkis Works Pottery is a small-batch family business run by a husband-and-wife team and Brian and Naomi Menkis. We make hand-crafted, beautiful and functional pots for daily use such as: mugs, bowls, vases, teapots, pitchers and much, much more! Every year we open our studio for a Spring Open Studio and Sale. In addition to having hundreds of pots available, there will be wheel throwing demonstrations, kids clay activities, refreshments and guest artisans. This year we will be joined again by Sholley’s Craft Shop! Stop by to find a new favorite mug or pick out a special vase for Mom with Mother’s Day just around the corner! Find out more at www.menkisworks.com

Now hiring music instructors

The Cadence Music and Arts Program offers private lessons for students aged 6 through adulthood. Cadence is looking for experienced music educators to join their team. Instructors are needed for the Dillsburg, Hershey, and Linglestown locations from 4-8pm. Send your resume to service@cmaprograms.com.

For more information, visit cmaprograms.com or contact Dan, dcampbell@messiah.edu.

Susquehanna Chorale Invites Auditions for its Educational Outreach Program

Auditions are scheduled for late May and early June. Complete application instructions are available on the Susquehanna Chorale website: www.susquehannachorale.org/eop-audition-resources

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on April 24

April 17

Thursday, April 17th, 2025

For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God. He was put to death in the body but made alive in the Spirit.”

1 Peter 3:18

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Keith Quesenberry, marketing professor, was selected to present an AI workshop at the Society of Business, Industry and Economics (SOBIE) national academic conference. The session “Open AI Moved My Cheese: AI Integration Processes and Frameworks for Educators in Any Discipline” is being given at the conference today in Florida.

_____

Drs. Joanna Behm and Jim Foster, professors of occupational therapy, taught a short course entitled “Tech-Savvy Therapy: How OT’s Can Use AI to Transform Daily Living” at the American Occupational Therapy Association Inspire annual conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on April 3.

Drs. Kim Duetsch and Joanna Behm, professors of occupational therapy, taught a short course entitled “Addressing Student Wellness Through an Embedded Peer Support Wellness Initiative” at the AOTA Inspire conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on April 3. They also presented a poster entitled “Using Indirect Serving Learning to Address Social Determinants of Health Among Women Survivors of Human Trafficking.”

Associate professor of occupational therapy Dr. Leanne Rutt, along with students Madeline Simonds, Vita Roitman and Corryn Baker, presented a poster entitled “How prepared are novice occupational therapy practitioners for school-based practice?” at the AOTA Inspire conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on April 3. Dr. Rutt, along with alumni Hannah Brezinski, Arianna Ramsaran, Jane Seitz and Nathan Smith, also presented a poster entitled “Provider and Caregiver Perspectives on the Family-Guided Routines-Based Intervention Approach in Early Intervention” on April 4. Along with alumni MaKenna Bailey, Abigail Chez, Katelyn Correll, Emily Nunn and Ashley Schott, Dr. Rutt also presented a poster entitled “Sensory Rooms in Schools” on April 5.

Assistant professor of occupational therapy Dr. Kim Duetsch, along with students Paige Bond, Hailey Conrad and Brianna Foster, presented a poster entitled “Preventing Burnout: Whose Job is it Anyway? Exploring the Relationships Between Individual and Organizational Supports on Professional Quality of Life” at the AOTA Inspire conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on April 3.

Assistant professor of occupational therapy Dr. Jim Foster, along with students Amy Lindner, Alli Mills, Bethany Paulding and Leyla Vazquez, presented a poster entitled, “Artificial Intelligence in Clinical Occupational Therapy: A Survey of Current and Future Anticipated Applications” at the AOTA Inspire conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on April 3. Dr. Foster, along with alumni Arianna Blose, Hannah Davis, Megan Miller and Eveny Miller, also presented a poster entitled, “The Impact of Peer Support on Social Participation for Burn Survivors” on April 4. Along with students Jordan Donelson, Alexa Elicker, Megan Leong, Shelby Sullivan and Leyla Vazquez, Dr. Foster presented a poster entitled, “The Use of Virtual Reality and Psychosocial Strategies to Address Self-Perceived Anxiety in College Students.”

Associate professor of occupational therapy Dr. Carrie Gorman, along with alum Paige Inch, presented a poster entitled, “OT Students’ and Graduates’ Perspectives on Traditional & Nontraditional Level I Fieldwork Experiences” at the AOTA Inspire conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on April 3. Dr. Gorman, along with alumni Hannah Mumau and Grace Peters and occupational therapist Mikaela Raimondo, presented a poster entitled, “OT as a Consultative Service for a Community-Based Nonprofit Organization: Using Your Skills to Serve Others.”

_____

The Registrar’s Office is pleased to announce the following staffing transitions and additions.

Sarah Darr has been hired as the new assistant registrar for the School of Graduate and Professional Studies (replacing Nancy Markley). Sarah joined Messiah as the graduate enrollment and communications specialist on the SGPS enrollment management team in 2021. In her new role, Sarah is responsible for degree certification, student records management and website maintenance.

Hilary Hoover has been promoted to senior associate registrar: curriculum management and degree certification. In her new role, Hilary will continue to give leadership and support to academic areas in curricular change management, and the undergraduate credential application and certification process.

Anne Narber has been promoted to associate registrar for undergraduate studies (replacing Beth Moshier). Anne joined the Registrar’s Office as the undergraduate academic services coordinator in January 2024. Since that time, she has developed into an effective member of our team by instituting efficiencies and applying care and attention to her responsibilities. In her new role, Anne will give leadership and support to undergraduate current and new/transfer student registration and schedule production, classroom assignments and system curriculum updates.

In addition, I am pleased to announce that Jennifer L. Good is joining the Registrar’s Office as the new academic compliance and services manager. Jennifer joined Messiah in 2023 and served as administrative assistant to the dean of the School of Science, Engineering and Health, and the state authorization, licensure and compliance manager. Jennifer will be responsible for university-wide state authorization, state licensure, financial value transparency and gainful employment compliance as well as National Student Clearinghouse enrollment reporting, processing transcript requests and providing administrative support to the Registrar’s Office.

Please join us in congratulating Anne and Hilary and welcome Sarah and Jennifer as the newest members of Team Registrar.

It is with sadness that we announce Beth Moshier will be leaving Messiah on April 16 to pursue an exciting new chapter of life in Colorado. Beth first came to Messiah as a psychology major in the early 2000s. She returned as a resident director in 2017. In January 2022, Beth stepped into her current role of associate registrar for undergraduate studies. Throughout her career at Messiah, Beth has loved serving students and employees with a sense of humor and grace. We will miss her!

Please join us in wishing Beth the absolute best in her next adventure.

_____

Oksana Moroz, an assistant professor of English, participated in the Conference on College Composition and Communication (CCCC) in Baltimore on April 10-12. She was a discussant on a panel, “Language, Teaching, and Learning in Time of War: Voices of Ukraine.” Next, she participated in a focus group from McGraw Hill Publishing and co-presented on “Relevant Implications of Hybrid Contract Grading as a B-side Approach in First-Year Composition Courses during the COVID-19 Pandemic.” Finally, she co-facilitated a workshop on “You Are Entirely More than the Job Market”: Crafting Prefigurative Counterstories on the Job Market.”

_____

Kristen Slabaugh, assistant dean of nursing

BID FAREWELL

Nance McCown Retirement Celebration

Please mark your calendars and join us as we celebrate our beloved Nance on Wednesday, April 23, 4 – 6 p.m., Howe Atrium.

While many think of Dr. Nance McCown ’85 as professor of public relations, her contributions to the Messiah community stretch back over 40 years, including her time as a student. She began working at Messiah 39 years ago in the admissions mailroom, before launching her public relations career in the Office of Marketing and Communication. During the years she served as residence director in Smith, editor of the Bridge, and an adjunct instructor.

Nance eventually completed her Ph.D. in public relations to become a full-time faculty member, and she designed the courses and curriculum of the PR program here. She served as co-chair of the Communication Department for several years along the way. She created the COMMunity portmanteaux that has come to identify the department.

Her contributions to the Messiah community go far beyond a list of tasks completed, though. Her colleagues describe her as some who sees others and values them as people, a shepherd who cares for others around her, both students and employees. Her famous bucket of candy for class is a familiar sign of a much deeper commitment to her students.

Nance committed most of her life to Messiah, and we are a better community for it.

AROUND CAMPUS

Homecoming 2025 events – Planning to host?

Hello from the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations,

Are you thinking about hosting an event during Homecoming 2025 (Oct. 3 and 4)? If you have plans or an idea for an event, please contact us by Thursday, May 1.

With over 60+ events taking place last year during Homecoming Weekend, it is important that all events be approved by and planned through the Office of Alumni and Parent Relations by the deadline mentioned above. Please reach out to Emily Lint by email (elint@messiah.edu) or phone (ext. 5252) to inquire about adding your event to the Homecoming schedule.

The full Homecoming Weekend schedule will be made available online in early July at messiah.edu/homecoming.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to let us know. We look forward to sharing this time of celebration with you and our al

Exploring Careers in Healthcare Day Camp

The School of Science, Engineering, and Health is pleased to offer Exploring Careers once again in Healthcare summer day camp, June 9-11, for students entering 10th – 12th grades this fall. Our camp is designed for students to explore some of the most dynamic healthcare professions, including nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, applied health science, nutrition and dietetics, and lab sciences, from a faith-based perspective. Patient case studies will provide context for engaging, hands-on activities, demonstrations and panel discussions in state-of-the-art facilities on our main campus and at Winding Hill, led by Messiah’s expert faculty, students, and professional practitioners. If you or someone you know is interested, we invite you to learn more and register at https://www.messiah.edu/healthcareerscamp before May 19.

A 10% discount is available to children of Messiah employees.
Scholarships are also available. Email healthcareerscamp@messiah.edufor discount codes and with any questions.

Psychology Camp 2025

We are excited to invite high school students (entering 10th – 12th grade in fall 2025) to attend Psychology Camp this year, June 22-27! Psychology Camp provides a fun opportunity for students to explore psychology and the question, “Why do humans do what they do?” This year, we are offering both an overnight residential option and a day-camp commuter option. This enriching summer camp environment will help students gain knowledge and explore various branches of psychology including clinical psychology, abnormal psychology, developmental psychology and biopsychology.

If you know someone who would be interested in attending, we invite you to learn more and register at: www.messiah.edu/PsychCamp before June 1.

Also, there is a special offer for dependents of Messiah University Employees!
Contact PsychologyCamp@messiah.edu for more information.

Oakes Museum summer camps

The Oakes Museum of Natural History has several exciting summer camp opportunities this year for students entering grades 3 through 12.

Field Biology Camp from June 9-13, 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. This field-based class will introduce students to field biology using live traps, telemetry, and other investigative equipment to study a variety of animal communities. This camp is only open to students entering grades 9-12 in Fall 2025.

Vertebrate Anatomy Camp is offered July 15-18, 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. and teaches dissecting techniques while giving students an overview of vertebrate anatomy. Dissections will include a variety of vertebrates including a frog, shark and fetal pig. This camp is only open to students entering grades 9-12 in Fall 2025.

Ecology Camp is offered July 7-11, 9 a.m. – noon*
Campers will learn about the interactions between different life forms and their environments with hands-on observations and experiments in the museum and the living laboratory of campus. This camp is open to students entering grades 6, 7 and 8 in Fall 2025.

Explore It Camp is offered June 16-20, 9 a.m. – noon*
Each day we will investigate a different topic, ranging from fossils to the sun to following a raindrop on its path across campus. Join us as we Explore It! This camp is open to students entering grades 3, 4 and 5 in Fall 2025.

Animals Camp is offered June 23-27 and July 21-25, 9:00 am – noon*
Using the museum and the surrounding natural world, each day campers will learn about a different animal group (invertebrates, fish, reptiles/amphibians, birds and mammals). This camp is open to students entering grades 3, 4 and 5 in Fall 2025.

*Before camp care is available on these weeks from 8 – 9 a.m. for an additional fee.
For more information, pricing, and to register, please visit: https://www.messiah.edu/info/22784/the_oakes_museum/4254/summer_camps

Interlibrary Loan physical lending temporarily suspended

Murray Library users will be unable to request physical Interlibrary Loan materials (books, DVDs, CDs) between April 17 and May 12, so that the library can migrate to a new Interlibrary Loan (ILL) software.

How will this impact the Messiah University community?

There will be no impact on requests for digital materials (journal articles and book chapters).
Between April 17 and May 12, no new requests for physical materials may be placed.
All physical materials requested prior to the pause on April 17 and/or received during the pause (as a result of requests placed before April 17) will be due at the end of the semester (for students) or no later than July 15 (for faculty).
When ILL resumes on May 12, requests for physical and digital materials will use the new system and due dates will return to the standard loan period for each user type.
Instructions on how to use the new system will be shared prior to the new system’s launch.

Questions? Additional details are available on the library’s website. Please contact Janet Vogel, director of the Murray Library, if you have additional questions.

Haydn’s “Creation”

April 25, 7:30 p.m., Parmer Hall

Pre-concert Lecture at 7 p.m.
Q&A Talkback following the concert

CLASSIFIEDS

Job opportunities

Graduate Enrollment and Student Services has an opening for a full-time enrollment communication coordinator. Job related questions may be directed to Diane Titter at dtitter@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29102.

Conference Services – Sound and Lighting has an opening for a full-time sound and lighting technician. Job related questions may be directed to Spencer Rennels at srennels@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29086.

Residence Life has an opening for a temporary summer residence director. Job related questions may be directed to Annastasia Bonczyk at abonczyk@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/28958.

Facility Maintenance has an opening for a full-time general maintenance mechanic (zone). Job related questions may be directed to Amy Stephan at astephan@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29089.

Dining Services has an opening for a full-time culinary assistant. Job related questions may be related to Mark Wirtz at mwirtz@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29328.

Campus and Building Services has an opening for a full-time campus and building services worker, Residence Hall. Job related questions may be directed to Laura Price at lprice@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29048.

Grounds Services has an opening for a full-time groundskeeper/crew leader. Job related questions may be directed to Mark Graybill at mgraybill@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/28255.

Free

Free for pickup. Graco highchair, approximately 9 years old. The straps need a deep cleaning, otherwise in good condition with a very clean tray. Must be picked up at my home near campus. Contact Ted Davis: tdavis@messiah.edu.

Wanted

Baskets. I am looking for small to medium baskets. If you have baskets, you know longer need, please let me know at rfeather@messiah.edu.

OUTSIDE ORGANIZATIONS

Menkis Works Pottery Spring Open Studio and Pottery Sale

Saturday, April 26, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Menkis Works Pottery
2401 Arcona Road, Mechanicsburg PA

Menkis Works Pottery is a small-batch family business run by husband-and-wife team and Brian and Naomi Menkis. We make hand-crafted, beautiful and functional pots for daily use such as: mugs, bowls, vases, teapots, pitchers and much, much more! Every year we open our studio for a Spring Open Studio and Sale. In addition to having hundreds of pots available, there will be wheel throwing demonstrations, kids clay activities, refreshments and guest artisans. This year we will be joined again by Sholley’s Craft Shop! Stop by to find a new favorite mug or pick out a special vase for Mom with Mother’s Day just around the corner! Find out more at www.menkisworks.com

Now hiring music instructors

Cadence Music and Arts Program offers private lessons for students age 6 through adulthood. Cadence is looking for experienced music educators to join their team. Instructors are needed for the Dillsburg, Hershey, and Linglestown locations from 4-8pm. Send your resume to service@cmaprograms.com.

For more information, visit cmaprograms.com or contact Dan, dcampbell@messiah.edu.

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on April 17

April 10

Thursday, April 10th, 2025

“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.”
1 John 3:16

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

_____

Oksana Moroz, assistant professor of English and director of writing, published an article titled

This article employs the critical incident technique (Tripp) in investigating digital identity construction through autoethnographic writing (Hanauer). The findings show that the pandemic dramatically influenced Oksana’s identities as a mama PhD candidate and TA in physical and digital spaces. Self-reflections on digital identity negotiation during the pandemic helped to understand students’ needs in terms of empathetic approaches to teaching, engaging students in personal types of writing, and providing spaces for students’ creativity and agency.

_____

The Registrar’s Office is pleased to announce the following staffing transitions and additions.

In addition, I am pleased to announce that Jennifer L. Good is joining the Registrar’s Office as the new academic compliance and services manager. Jennifer joined Messiah in 2023 and has served as administrative assistant to the Dean, SEH, and the state authorization, licensure, and compliance manager. Jennifer will be responsible for university-wide state authorization, state licensure, and financial value transparency and gainful employment compliance as well as National Student Clearinghouse enrollment reporting, processing transcript requests, and providing administrative support to the Registrar’s Office.

Please join us in congratulating Anne and Hilary and welcoming Sarah and Jennifer as the newest members of Team Registrar.

Please join us in wishing Beth the very best in her next adventure.

_____

Please join me in congratulating Stephanie Patterson as she transitions to a new position as executive assistant to the president and CEO of Pennsylvania Advocates and Resources for Autism and Intellectual Disabilities (PAR). Stephanie has served in a variety of administrative support roles at Messiah, most recently as administrative assistant to the dean of general education, common learning, and academic support and the director of assessment. Stephanie’s competence and kindness have positively impacted our campus community in countless ways, and we will miss her. Stephanie, we send you forth with our prayers and blessings, confident that God will lead you and guide you.

Kate Oswald Wilkins, dean of general education, common learning and academic support

_____

Dwayne Safer, associate professor of finance, recently served as a guest lecturer at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania on March 29 and April 5 working with MBA students on Excel financial modeling techniques and functions

_____

On Wednesday, April 2, the Association of College and University Printers (ACUP+) honored the winners of its ACUP+ Awards competition in a ceremony in Costa Mesa, California. In the Production Awards portion of the ceremony, Messiah Press brought home a Gold Award in the Digital Multi Piece category. The winning entry, designed by Matt Logan for the Office of Development, was the 2024 Messiah Christmas Invitation Package. Congratulations to Matt and the Messiah Press team.

_____

On April 2, 37 senior nursing students and one graduate nursing student presented evidence-based practice projects at the annual WellSpan Health Collaborative EBP and Nursing Research Conference in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. Students submitted abstracts that went through a blind peer review process and were all selected as poster presentations. One student group was also selected by Messiah Nursing faculty to deliver a podium presentation. Project titles, students and mentors are listed below. Congratulations to all our student presenters!

Skin-to Skin Effect on Mother Satisfaction Post-Cesarean Section (podium presentation)
Nursing Students: Aamirah Byrd, Macy Gerbes, Alanna Keister, Ravyn Kell, Gaelle Medidor, Jami Nicols and Emma Shenk
Faculty Mentor: Nancy J. Frank, PhD, RN, CNE

The Impact of Post-Critical Incident Stress Debriefing on Pediatric Healthcare Providers
Nursing Students: Alyssa Eberly, Grace Hershey, Julia Leo, Julia Martin, Olivia Mellinger, Ali Wagner and Lexi Weaver
Graduate Student Mentor (MSN Nurse Educator track): Kaci Wood, BSN, RN

Help! Trauma-Informed Care and De-escalation Training for Emergency Department Nurses (Also won the best poster award)
Nursing Students: Chloe Barlett, Sofia Chebeleu, Monique Garbanzos, Emma Graybill, Elizabeth Miele, Isabella Ouellette, Isa Rodriguez and Evelina Stolyarov
Faculty Nurse: Rebekkah Stanko, DNP, RN

The Use of Mobile Applications to Manage PTSD Symptoms in Veterans
Nursing Students: Kelly Anderson, Rebecca Buffington, Christine Corbitt, Samantha Cottrill, Grace Garvey, Regan Gillisse, Katrina Hocker and Abby Stoner
Faculty Mentor: Brenda Elliott, PhD, RN, CNE, ANEF

Effect of Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools on Trauma-Related Child and Adolescent Well-being
Nursing Students: Allison Beers, Kiersten Burch, Kayla Russell, Kailey Saunders, Maria Sudlow, Ben Tlumach and Leona Yang
Faculty Nurse: Wanda Thuma-McDermond, PhD, RN

Utilizing Structured Format for Nursing Handoff Reporting to Promote Patient Safety
Graduate Nursing Student: MSN – Nurse Educator track: Stephanie Gigous, BSN, RN

BID FAREWELL

Nance McCown Retirement Celebration

Please mark your calendars and join us as we celebrate our beloved Nance on Wednesday, April 23, 4 – 6 p.m., Howe Atrium.

While many think of Dr. Nance McCown ’85 as professor of public relations, her contributions to the Messiah community stretch back over 40 years, including her time as student. She began working at Messiah 39 years ago in the admissions mailroom, before launching her public relations career in the Office of Marketing and Communication. During the years she served as residence director in Smith, editor of the Bridge, and an adjunct instructor.

Nance committed most of her life to Messiah, and we are a better community for it.

AROUND CAMPUS

Murray Library receives $20,000 grant

Murray Library has been selected as one of 300 libraries, of which four are academic libraries, to participate in round three of Libraries Transforming Communities: Accessible Small and Rural Communities, an American Library Association (ALA) initiative that provides community engagement and accessibility resources to small and rural libraries to help them better serve people with disabilities. The competitive award comes with a $20,000 grant that will help the library improve its quiet study and testing spaces through the addition of individual study pods. These modular pods include a desk, sound dampening features, ventilation, and dimmable lighting. There has been a 47% increase in demand for individualized testing slots via the Office of Academic Accessibility (OAA) between the 2021-2022 and 2023-2024 academic years. While these pods will be available to all, we will specifically work with students with disabilities to determine the best placement and use of these pods as required by the grant. Studies have shown that students with disabilities and neurodiverse students benefit significantly from quiet, distraction-free spaces. Offering these pods will contribute to our students’ success and help Murray Library better serve our community. The grant will include community conversations prior to the purchase of the pods. If you work with students with disabilities or students who identify as neurodiverse and would be willing to share information with them, please contact Janet Vogel (jvogel@messiah.edu). Note that students do not have to have a documented disability to participate, although we will be partnering with OAA to support our students!

Oakes Museum summer camps

The Oakes Museum of Natural History has several exciting summer camp opportunities this year for students entering grades 3 through 12.

*Before camp care is available on these weeks from 8 – 9 a.m. for an additional fee.
For more information, pricing, and to register, please visit:
https://www.messiah.edu/info/22784/the_oakes_museum/4254/summer_camps

Interlibrary Loan Physical Lending temporarily suspended

How will this impact the Messiah University community?

There will be no impact on requests for digital materials (journal articles and book chapters).
Between April 17 and May 12, no new requests for physical materials may be placed.
All physical materials requested prior to the pause on April 17 and/or received during the pause (as a result of requests placed before April 17) will be due at the end of the semester (for students) or no later than July 15 (for faculty).
When ILL resumes on May 12, requests for physical and digital materials will use the new system and due dates will return to the standard loan period for each user type.
Instructions on how to use the new system will be shared prior to the new system’s launch.

Questions? Additional details are available on the library’s website. Please contact Janet Vogel, director of the Murray Library, if you have additional questions.

Employee Worship – Tuesday, April 15

We welcome everyone to join for an employee worship service on Tuesday, April 15, 9:30 – 10:15 a.m. in Hostetter Chapel. Music will include an employee choir anthem and congregational hymns. Stephen Gallaher, employee community pastor, will deliver the message for the day.

Student Excel competition

Congratulations to the Department of Business students who competed this past weekend and placed 1st in the Microsoft Excel Regional College challenge. The Messiah Excel team (Luke Peyton, Drew Weaver, Dylan Yoder and Marcos Garcia) traveled to UMass (Amherst, Massachusetts) where they competed against over 150 students (grad and undergrad) from a number of New England colleges and won the competition. The team has qualified and will compete in the Microsoft Excel College Championship which will take place in Las Vegas in December.

Technology Support

Please see below for helpful tips and updates! Contact us by emailing techsupport@messiah.edu regarding any of this information or if you have any questions in general.

After a student graduates and their status is changed to “graduated,” the student will no longer have access to their files stored through their Messiah accounts (unless they are transitioning to a Messiah graduate program). If the graduating students would like to keep their email account, they will need to complete the Alumnus Email Request Form prior to Oct. 1. This only gives the student access to email. It does NOT provide access to their files that are outside of email.
• Shared data from students: When students graduate and their access is changed, you may lose files/information shared with you by the student. Please work with the owner of the information to ensure you have access to the data after graduation.
• As the end of the semester is approaching and we’re cleaning out, please remember the Office of Information Security provides shredding. Please bring all paper for shredding directly to our location in the basement of Old Main (High Center side) OM009 to be shredded. Someone will be available for drop-off from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. during the week. You are also welcome to handle your own shredding if you prefer, but please ask for assistance if the shredder is full. Special arrangements (e.g., shredding pick-up) can be made by calling Allen Snook, director of information security, at ext. 6790.

“Fill a Bag” food drive

The Social Concerns Committee of SGA is requesting the help of the entire Messiah community. They are delighted to announce the successful soft launch of Messiah’s very own food pantry. The location is in Hostetter Chapel Basement, room H016.
Background – This project is happening because the Social Concerns Committee of SGA received numerous student concerns regarding accessibility to healthy, allergy friendly, and affordable food and ingredients. They are collaborating with internal departments, reaching out to external partners, and in the process of grant application to expand hours as well as capacity in future semesters. The pantry is open to any and all students.

Can you help with stocking up the food pantry? You are invited to participate in this “Fill a Bag” food drive to engage with the community and help students out!

Instructions for the food drive:
(1) Starting today, you can find clear bins with the attached poster in a few locations across campus. In the bins, you can find reusable bags as well as printed out shopping lists.
(2) You can decide what to donate according to the shopping list (curated based on what was taken the most by students/collected requests). Other items are welcome too!
(3) Drop the items off in the bins by 4/17 (Thursday before Easter break)
(4) The Social Concerns Committee will come pick it up for the pantry’s next opening!

Locations include:
(1) Boyer Center (Boyer first floor office)
(2) Sustainability Office (ECC)
(3) Oakes Museum (by the door)

Thank you for all your support!

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Job opportunities

Campus and Building Services has an opening for a full-time Campus and Building services worker, residence hall. Job related questions may be directed to Laura Price at lprice@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29048.

Grounds Services has an opening for a part-time groundskeeper. Job related questions may be directed to Mark Graybill at mgraybill@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit :https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29118
Grounds Services has an opening for a part-time seasonal groundskeeper. Job related questions may be directed to Mark Graybill at mgraybill@messiah.edu. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://jobs.messiah.edu/postings/29281.

For sale

Pop-up camper for sale. 2006 Jayco 806 Baja pop-up camper. Well-loved but in fair condition. Sleeps 4-5. Small enough to tow behind a Subaru Outback. 3 beds, dining table, stove, sink, fridge, heater, propane and electric hookups, awning. Will throw in camping gear and extras. Email for pics. $3500 or best offer. mroth@messiah.edu

Posted in Uncategorized | Comments Off on April 10

April 3

Thursday, April 3rd, 2025

“We love because he first loved us.”

1 John 4:19

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Oksana Moroz, assistant professor of English and director of writing, published an article titled “You Will Have a COVID Baby?!”: A Mama PhD Candidate’s Critical Incidents” in the herstoric 25th-anniversary issue of the Journal of the Motherhood Initiative.

AROUND CAMPUS

Summer students hiring reminder

As a reminder, hiring proposals for summer student employees are due by April 4. If your department plans to have any student employees this summer, please submit a summer hiring proposal via the jobs.messiah.edu system for each student that will be working.

Additional information about summer student employment can be found here.
If you have any questions about hiring student employees for the summer, contact Belinda Conrad, student employment coordinator, ext. 2900 or studentemployment@messiah.edu.

Cyber Camp is back!

Messiah University’s Cyber Camp is back this summer, taking place June 9-12! This day camp for high school students entering 9th – 12th grade is a fun way to dive into the world of cybersecurity. We will cover topics such as cryptography, online behavior and privacy, ethical hacking, social engineering, threat intelligence and using AI to defend the digital domain. This year, students will take part in even more hands-on cyber labs, simulations and interactive gaming scenarios. Plus, they will receive instruction directly from our cybersecurity faculty and local industry experts, all while getting to experience an introduction to what college life is all about. Space is limited, so register soon! Find all the details here: https://www.messiah.edu/cybercamp.
Scholarships and discounts:
• Messiah employees receive a 10% discount when signing their dependents up. Contact cybercamp@messiah.edu for the discount code.
• Scholarships are available. Contact cybercamp@messiah.edu for more info.

Join us at “The Living Library: Many Stories, One Community”

Please join the Office of Diversity Affairs and the Murray Library as they co-host the “Living Library: Many Stories, One Community” on Wednesday, April 9 between noon – 4 p.m.

This event is held in the library and you, as a “reader” have the opportunity to hear stories from colleagues and students as they are the “books.” Each book is on loan for 30 minutes.

Come hear these personal narratives and reserve the “books” of your choice online at: https://libguides.messiah.edu/livinglibrary

Check out this year’s two “featured” books:

President Kim Phipps: “Not What I Was Planning” and guest, Scott Frey, poet and educator: “Heavy Metal Nursing” Read more about Scott at www.scottfrey.org

If you are new to the concept of the Living Library, and have any questions, please contact Liz Kielley, discovery and metadata librarian, at ekielley@messiah.edu.

Connecting Communities Convening

Register now and join us on Thursday April 24 from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. in Hostetter Chapel to connect with a diverse cross sector of community partners from the Greater Capital Region who will be on campus for the Connecting Communities Convening. You are invited to learn about important neighboring initiatives underway in our region as well as to participate in discussions throughout the day with community leaders about housing and neighboring practices, policies, paradigms and philanthropy. For a program itinerary and/or to register as a member of the
Messiah community, visit https://www.messiahconnection.com/.
The Convening is a program of the School of Arts, Culture and Society. Contact Chad Frey at cfrey@messiah.edu if you have any questions.

Sahoko Sato Timpone, mezzo-soprano

April 4, 7:30 p.m.
Calvin and Janet High Center for Worship and Performing Arts,
High Foundation Recital Hall

Archive for 2025

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

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The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.

Isaiah 58:11

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BID FAREWELL

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OUTSIDE ORGANIZATIONS

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BID FAREWELL

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The Lord will guide you always;
he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land
and will strengthen your frame.
You will be like a well-watered garden,
like a spring whose waters never fail.