"Alumni Link December 2017 Edition" Elmira College in Elmira, New York, United States

"Alumni Link December 2017 Edition" Elmira College in Elmira, New York, United States

Holiday Banquet

Students, faculty, and administrators recently gathered in Campus Center for the beloved traditional Holiday Banquet. The evening was full of fun, fellowship, and music. [Read more]

Campus Community Gathers for Annual Holiday Banquet

Last Friday evening students, faculty, and administrators gathered in Campus Center for the traditional Holiday Banquet.
This celebration, one of the oldest of Elmira College's many time-honored traditions, is where students "invite" their favorite faculty member or administrator to join them for a traditional holiday dinner. Faculty and administrators serve the students dinner, carving turkeys, and passing dishes in a family-style meal.
This year’s dinner consisted of 100 cooked turkeys weighing 1,141 pounds, 100 pounds of corn, 100 pounds of green beans, 90 pounds of bread for stuffing, and 25 gallons of gravy. In addition to the festive food, attendees enjoyed an ugly sweater contest won by Wendy Fiscus, director of Health Services.
Keeping with tradition, the evening included remarks from President Lindsay as well as various students, and members of the class of 2018 leading the room in traditional holiday songs.






Holiday Reception Held at New Alumni House

Alumni and friends recently gathered at the newly minted Alumni House for a holiday reception. The house, located one block from campus, provides low-cost overnight accommodations for alumni when in town. The house has five bedrooms and can sleep up to 11 people. The house can be rented as a whole, or by individual rooms. For more information and availability, contact Alumni Relations at 607-735-1855. 

Philadelphia-area Alumni Host President & Mrs. Lindsay

President and Mrs. Lindsay recently attended an intimate dinner at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown hosted by Louise Wotring Souders ’62. The evening included a chance for mingling and networking along with a college update from President Lindsay. View photos from the event here.
NYC Alumni Gather After EC Games

Members of the NYC Alumni Chapter recently hosted get-togethers following Elmira College men’s basketball games in the New York metro area. On December 9, Kevin Dulak ’80, Matt Keating ’07, and James Duffy ’94 hosted a post-game party following the EC vs. Manhattanville College game, and on December 10, Mike DeCorso M.S. ’10 and Beau Ridley ’85 hosted a post-game gathering following the EC vs. NYU match-up. view photos from the event here.
Alumnae Honored by Chemung Chamber

Award recipients at this year’s Chemung County Chamber of Commerce Awards Breakfast included Trustee and alumna Clare Cantrill van den Blink ’96 and alumna Jennifer Bagetis Miller ’05. Also recognized was the President’s Council Chair, Mike Wayne. Congratulations to each! [Read More]

2017 Chemung County Chamber Awards

The Chemung County Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards breakfast on Tuesday, December 5, and three of this year’s recipients have close ties to Elmira College.

Clare Cantrill van den Blink ’96 (above) was awarded the 2017 ATHENA®Award for her professional excellence and community service and actively assisting women realize their full leadership potential. Clare received a bachelor of arts in economics and a master of science in adult education from Elmira College. She has served as an adjunct faculty member and IT consultant to the College. Clare is a member of the Elmira Chapter of the Alumni Association and currently serves as a member of the Board of Trustees.

Jennifer Bagetis Miller ’05 was the first-ever recipient of the Trailblazer Award for her efforts in going above and beyond to affect positive change in the community. Jennifer graduated magna cum laude from Elmira College in 2005 with a bachelor of arts in international studies. She was active in Omicron Delta Kappa, Phi Eta Sigma, Pi Sigma Alpha, women’s tennis, and Student Alumni Council, and continues as a member of the Elmira Chapter of the Alumni Association. Jennifer is married to Josh Miller, a 2002 Elmira College graduate.

Michael Wayne was awarded the Mary E. Kennedy Community Builder Award for his contributions to an enhanced quality of life for the greater Elmira community. Mike is a long-time supporter of the College, having served on the President’s Council, of which he is currently the chair, for many years. His leadership and volunteer efforts, both for the College and the broader community, are extensive and have made a lasting impact.
“It is deeply rewarding to see Clare, Jennifer and Mike all recognized today,” said Dr. Charles Lindsay, president of Elmira College. “Each is making a positive and meaningful impact on our community – an impact that ultimately supports those who live, work, and study here.”
On behalf of the entire Elmira College community, we extend our congratulations to all of the 2017 award recipients.
Remembering Dr. Marsden

The Elmira College community was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of iconic professor, Dr. Malcolm "Mal" Marsden, Dana Professor of English Literature Emeritus. Dr. Marsden touched the lives of many and will be greatly missed. [Read More]

Remembering Dr. Malcolm Marsden

The Elmira College community was saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Malcolm “Mal” Marsden, Dana Professor of English Literature Emeritus, on November 30 at the age of 95. Dr. Marsden began his career at Elmira College in 1955 and, by the time he retired 38 years later in 1993, he had become a veritable institution.
Dr. Marsden joined the Elmira College community after teaching at Syracuse University and was happy to be with a small liberal arts college, being quoted as saying, "I just loved it from the beginning, and I love living in upstate New York." He enjoyed the level of relationships with administrators, faculty members and students, which he felt he wouldn’t find at a larger university.
“Malcolm was the best of us and made us proud to be associated with Elmira College,” said Dr. Charles Mitchell, provost and professor of American studies, when reflecting upon Dr. Marsden’s impact on members of the Elmira College faculty.
Patty Hunt Walsh ’58, Class Reunion Chair, reflected upon Dr. Marsden’s influence, “I am sad to learn of the passing of Dr. Marsden. The members of the Class of ’58 are truly blessed to have known and been nurtured by such a brilliant, accomplished, and caring man.”

Inducted as an honorary member of the Elmira College Chapter of Phi Beta Kappa in 1969, Dr. Marsden served that organization for many years and remained active through 2017. The citation for his election reads in part as follows: “You have earned the respect, esteem, and friendship of generations of Elmira students . . . you have proved yourself a man of stability, high standards, and good sense . . . you have left an indelible imprint of modesty, generosity, warmth, and good humor.” Dr. Marsden continued to embody those words for the remaining twenty-five years of his career.
In 1992, Dr. Marsden was presented the annual Catherine McGraw Rock Award for outstanding service, an award he had won once before in 1962. The award, established by former chair of the College's Board of Trustees Harold McGraw, is given to a senior member of the Elmira College faculty.
The Malcolm and Virginia Marsden Endowment Fund was established with gifts from members of the Class of 1958, for which Dr. Marsden had served as Patron Saint. Income from the fund is used to support faculty development for professors and instructors in the humanities.
"Professor Marsden was a paragon of teaching and scholarship - a perfect model of a faculty member. He was inspiring and engaging in the classroom, bringing out the best in students and always holding them to the highest standards," said Connie O'Neill Gourdeau '58, Class President. “Members of the Class of 1958 were so proud to establish the Malcolm and Virginia Marsden Endowed Fund to honor our wonderful Patron Saints. His impact will continue to echo through the ages because he touched so many lives."
Those wishing to make gifts in memoriam, may make a donation online or mail donations to: Elmira College, Attn: Peggy Arnesen ’63, One Park Place, Elmira, NY 14901.
Ann K. Parsons ’75 Publishes Novel

Ann K. Parsons ’75, recently had her first novel, “The Demmies,” published in print and digital format. Ann, an English education major at EC, has been writing as a hobby for nearly 40 years. [Read More]

Alumna Authors Suspense Novel

Alumna Ann K. Parsons ’75, recently authored, “The Demmies: A Novel.”
The story follows the demmies, genetically engineered, foot-high humans. By day, the demmies posed for pictures, were guests on TV shows, and helped to increase knowledge about genetic engineering by taking part in scientific experiments. But by night, they faced Dr. Albert Lud's unauthorized experiments and his torture.
Could the demmies escape this torture and find a better life? What makes a species human? Is it size or intelligence? Find out the fate of the demmies and the answers to these questions in this suspenseful novel now available in paperback and digital e-reader formats.
Click here for more details about Ann and to download a free text preview of the book.
Alumni Spotlight: Noah Zazulia ’11, M.S. ’13

After earning his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Elmira College, Noah Zazulia ’11, M.S. ’13 began a career in marketing with healthcare giant, Humana. In this Spotlight, Noah reflects on his time at EC, his career, and community service. [Read More]
Noah Zazulia ’11, M.S.’13
Marketing Consultant at Humana
“My experience at Elmira College was invaluable and has definitely prepared me personally and professionally. “

Noah Zazulia ’11, M.S. ’13 has spent his time building his career and giving back to the community after his time at Elmira College.
As a high school student, Noah chose Elmira College for the opportunity to play basketball, and for “a personalized and individualized” education that would aid him in achieving his dreams. During his time as an undergraduate, Noah was a 4-year member of the men’s varsity basketball team, a Resident Assistant, Student Activities Chair, a member of the Gold Key Society and a member of Enactus/SIFE. As a senior, Noah had the opportunity to travel abroad to Florence, Italy for four weeks. He encourages all students to take advantage of the travel abroad program, as it exposed him to a new culture while learning about himself.
After graduating with a business administration degree, Noah accepted a graduate assistant position at Elmira College, serving as the Resident Life Coordinator and receiving his Master’s of Science in general management. He credits his professors and Coach Randall Torglaski for having a significant role in his education, influencing him with their guidance and support throughout his six years at Elmira College.
After completing his masters degree, Noah moved to Miami, FL, with his now wife, Andrea Nickerson Zazulia ’11 M.S ’13. After taking a job at Humana as a Marketing Analyst, Noah moved up in the company, becoming a Marketing Consultant who oversees eight Humana markets in Florida. Noah’s cites the biggest highlight of his life as marrying his best friend, Andrea. He remembers his first encounter with Andrea like it was yesterday, seeing her on the Campus Center stairs and thinking it would be a great idea to get down on one knee and ask her to marry him - not knowing seven years later that would become a reality.
Noah has volunteered with a local non-profit organization, CourtVision International. CourtVision International is a youth advocacy organization that selects high school students to participate in a “Peacebuilding” travel basketball team. The team is active in community service projects and international trips that encourage building peace and addressing issues for youth worldwide. As a business liaison for the organization, he has contributed by co-coordinating the annual exchange trip to the Dominican Republic, developing marketing plans, and helping build brand awareness, as well as conducting community outreach and fundraising events for the organization.
Looking back on his time at Elmira, Noah is grateful for the experiences that shaped who he is now. He fondly remembers playing basketball, the Mountain Day pancake breakfast and BBQ, and Term III softball. He encourages students to takes risks, push yourself out of your comfort zone and to always do your best.
Learn more about Elmira College's Business Administration program
Bahamas Essay Contest

Alumnae Alicia Burns ’15, Janay Pyfrom-Symonette ’08, and Errolisa Mcphee ’09 recently joined Alison Wolfe Wolfe, associate professor of marketing and Corning Incorporated Foundation Chair in Business in judging the 14th Elmira College Enactus - Sunshine Insurance Essay Contest. This year's winner received a $60,000 scholarship to EC. [Read More]

Enactus, Sunshine Insurance Host Annual Scholarship Contest

Four Bahamian secondary students were the recipients of $150,000 in scholarships for their entrepreneurial spirit during the 14th Elmira College Enactus – Sunshine Insurance Essay Contest recently held in Nassau, Bahamas.
Britani Silvera of Lyford Cay International School was crowned this year’s champion for her business plan, winning the $60,000 grand prize scholarship to attend Elmira College. Runners-up Yana Swain of Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Academy, Jason Deveaux of Jordan Prince Williams, and Rakell Riley of Central Andros High each earned $30,000 in Elmira College scholarships.
The contest, held jointly by the Elmira College Enactus team and Sunshine Insurance in Nassau, Bahamas, has awarded more than $1.6 million in scholarships since its inception during the 2003-04 academic year.
Made possible by the work and generosity of Elmira College trustee Franon Wilson ’97 and his wife Shelly Wilson, the contest calls for Bahamian high school students to submit an essay outlining their idea for a new product or service that could boost the Bahamian economy. The top ten contestants are invited to defend their ideas before a panel of judges in the Sunshine Insurance boardroom with Elmira-based judges participating via live-video conference.
Enactus project leaders Marisa Sponable ’18, Alexander Garey ’18, and Jeremy Boorum’18 facilitated the contest from Elmira, New York. Alison Wolfe, associate professor of marketing and Enactus advisor, joined three Bahamian alumnae, Alicia Burns ’15, Janay Pyfrom-Symonette ’08, and Errolisa Mcphee ’09 in judging the contest.

Coach Ellen Gibbs Matson M.S. ’77 Award Established

Friends, family members, and former student athletes of beloved, late Coach Ellen Gibbs Matson M.S. ’77 have raised $12,209 in cash and $10,000 in pledges for a total of $22,209 toward the goal of $25,000 to establish the Ellen Gibbs Matson Award. The annual award will be presented to a graduating student-athlete who has demonstrated Ellen’s leadership, joy, and commitment to Elmira College. We hope to reach our goal soon.Your generous gifts are tax deductible and support the Soaring Eagle athletes. To make a gift click here.
Alumna Creates Hypatia Mathematics Award

Patricia “Tricia” Opp McMahon ’66 and her husband, Kevin, planned well for retirement, and Patricia is now passing that success on to future Elmira College students through the Hypatia Mathematics Award. Learn more about the importance of this Award to Tricia and how she was able to support it. [Read more]

Endowed Awards-Prizes

After a successful year with investments Patricia (Tricia) Opp McMahon ’66 and her husband, Kevin, were required to take a rather sizable Required Minimum Distribution from their IRA in 2017. Because they hoped to avoid large taxes on the resulting income they decided to use their RMDs to fund gifts at their respective colleges, and Elmira College was the recipient of one of these gifts.

Patricia Opp McMahon ’66
Alumna’s Love of Math and the Tax Benefits of an RMD Gift Lead to Mathematics Award
Tricia is a mathematics enthusiast, who majored in mathematics at Elmira College and completed graduate classes in mathematics and education at Michigan State University and the University of Virginia. She taught secondary mathematics for seven years then did volunteer tutoring. She helped establish the mathematics criteria for an International Baccalaureate Diploma at Salem High School in Salem, Virginia. Tricia continues to promote and encourage the discipline of mathematics whenever the opportunity arises with children of all ages.
When it came time to establish the criteria, the idea of a mathematics award was a given. More challenging was the search for an appropriate name for an award that would recognize women who share her enthusiasm for mathematics and desire to share that passion with others through education or other career endeavors. Tricia is mindful that we need to identify and reward more women for their interest and competency in this important field of study.
After contemplating several ideas, she found the perfect choice, the Hypatia Mathematics Award named after Hypatia of Alexandria, one of the first known women to study and teach mathematics, astronomy and philosophy. In her time Hypatia was the world’s leading astronomer and mathematician and led the life of a respected academic at Alexandria University, a position previously held only by men. What a lofty example for Elmira College women of Tricia’s time and today. The first award will be given at the Annual Awards Banquet this spring.
You still have time to turn your RMD into a gift for a fortunate Elmira College student by calling Peggy Harris Arnesen ’63, Director of Major and Planned Gifts at (607) 735-1770 or parnesen@elmira.edu. 
Planned Gift Gives Back to EC

M. Deborah Bailey Brown ’63 enjoyed a successful career in education, in large part, according to her, due to her education and experiences at Elmira College. As her way of saying thank you, Debbie made a planned gift to the College in her will, leaving a portion of her IRA to the College. [Read More]

Planned Gifts

Self-described, “small town girl” M. Deborah Bailey Brown wanted to find a small liberal arts college to attend.

Grateful Alumna Plans Gift to Say ‘Thank You’
“In the end, Elmira College found me, offering me a spot in the class of 1963,” Debbie said.
With a voracious appetite for books as a child, Debbie knew that majoring in English was a natural fit that led to a career in education. “I hadn’t had any education courses at Elmira so I immediately went back to graduate school to obtain my master’s of science in elementary education,” Debbie explained. “That’s when I really began to appreciate what my Elmira College experience had given me. I had learned how to take charge of my education, make good decisions about what I needed to learn, and, most importantly, how to learn from others through discourse and dialogue.”
Debbie enjoyed a fulfilling career as an educator, in addition to being a wife, mother and community volunteer. Elmira College has benefitted from her volunteer work after she was elected to the Alumni Association Board of Directors. “I hadn’t given much serious, conscious thought to all that Elmira had done for me since graduation,” Debbie recounted. “But once I became ‘reconnected’ with the work of the Alumni Association Board of Directors, I felt very proud of Elmira College and the quality of students I met on campus. I had supported the annual fund for years. But I felt it was important to make a major gift, which would significantly support the College’s efforts to continue to be the fine institution it is.”
Debbie decided to have Elmira named in her will to receive a portion of her IRA. “Making a planned gift is my way of saying, ‘Thank you, Elmira College!”
To find out how you can support the future of Elmira College, please contact Director of Planned and Major Gifts Peggy Harris Arnesen ’63 at 607-735-1770 or e-mail: parnesen@elmira.edu.
View other planned gifts here.

Deborah Bailey Brown ’63 Cheryl Broomall Shallish ’71
Alumni in the News
Melissa Jeffers Von Dollen ’09
First millennial elected to Colonie Town Board
Don Sherman M.S. ’11
Promoted to Assistant Athletic Director of Event & Facility Operations
Patrcia M. O’Heron Cordes ’86
Awarded CCC’s Ann Marie Rossi ‘76 Award
Mackenzie Howe M.S. ’15
Named director of development for Hope Enterprises
Joe Federowicz ’71
Sixty years later, Tioga County couple says ‘I Do’ again
Rita M. Kepner
Celebrated by Marquis Who’s Who for Almost 45 Years of Practiced Industry Experience
Elmira College in the News

• Sunshine Insurance - Elmira Top 10 Essay Finalists Announced
• EC Men’s Hockey Collects 387 Stuffed Animals for Charity
• The Finger Lakes are a pretty destination for history and wine

"Season's Greetings from Elmira College" Elmira College in Elmira, New York, United States

Season's Greetings from the entire Elmira College community

As we celebrate this joyous season, we take a moment to reflect on our campus, students, and traditions throughout the years. 

Happy Holidays!

Dr. Charles Lindsay
President

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