Edinboro University awarded $1.2 million NSF grant

Edinboro University has received a $1.2 million National Science Foundation (NSF) Robert Noyce Teaching Scholarship Program grant to help address the nationwide shortage of secondary STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) educators.

The funds will be used to increase the number of math and science educators prepared to teach in high-need urban and rural school districts.

“This funding is a testament to Edinboro University’s strength in the STEM fields, as well as our top-notch teacher preparation program,” said Dr. James Fisher, interim provost and vice president for Academic Affairs. “Edinboro has a long history of producing graduates who go on to make the world a better place. This award will enable us to continue that legacy by preparing teachers who go where the need is greatest.”

Over the next five years, the grant will provide $17,150 scholarships to high-achieving undergraduate STEM scholars during their fourth and fifth years at the University. The 4+1 model will allow students to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry, mathematics, physics or biology and a Pennsylvania secondary teaching certification.

Additionally, 12 graduates who already hold a Bachelor of Science degree in a STEM field will each receive a $30,000 stipend to earn a teaching certification.

The Edinboro University Noyce Teaching Scholarship will be jointly administered by expert faculty in the College of Science and Health Professions and the School of Education.

“As the demand for qualified teachers continues to grow, Edinboro University remains committed to the support and success of regional, rural and urban school districts,” said Dr. Erinn Lake, interim dean of Edinboro’s nationally recognized School of Education. “This funding will produce life-changing pathways for future leaders in the field of secondary STEM education.”

Special recognition goes to Dr. Nina Thumser, chairperson of the Biology and Health Sciences Department; Dr. Roger Wolbert, assistant professor in the Math and Computer Science Department; Dr. Whitney Wesley, chairperson of the Middle and Secondary Education, and Educational Leadership Department; and Rosmari Graham, director of Grants and Sponsored Programs, for their work on the grant.

To learn more about the National Science Foundation Robert Noyce Teaching Scholarship Program, email ENTS@edinboro.edu.

Concert Band of NWPA to open 2019 season at EU

The Concert Band of Northwest Pennsylvania will open its 36th year of summer concerts in Edinboro on Wednesday at 7 p.m. on the lawn of Louis C. Cole Auditorium – Memorial Hall.

Conducted by John Fleming and co-directed by Fleming and Armond Walter, "Music for Birds and Beasts," will feature compositions inspired by the sounds of the animal kingdom. Featured creatures include dogs, cats, horses, elephants, a hippopotamus, lions, eagles and a frog.

Audience members will be entertained by the work of Leroy Anderson, Karl King, Elton John, Jan van der Roost and others. The delightful, family-friendly event is free and open to the public, and no reservations are necessary. Attendees are asked to bring their own seating.

The concert will be moved inside Louis C. Cole Auditorium - Memorial Hall in the event of rain.

Expand your horizon through EU study abroad programs

Art programs receive national 10-year accreditation

Since 1920, Edinboro University’s Art Department has trained thousands of creators and educators who have contributed to the economic and cultural development of the Erie County region and beyond.

This month, Edinboro’s nationally recognized Art Department received a distinguished 10-year accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) – the industry’s standard for academic and professional art and design program evaluation.

“Art students and faculty members at Edinboro University consistently strive to connect artistic theory and practice – enhancing the creative atmosphere of campus,” said James Parlin, chairperson of Edinboro’s Art Department. “A national accreditation from NASAD reinforces our dedication to excellence and ethics.”

NASAD establishes standards for undergraduate and graduate degrees and disciplines related to art and design.

Institutions receive NASAD accreditation following a comprehensive review from NASAD personnel. Colleges and universities obtain accreditation after reaching the educational quality and institutional probity outlined by the association. Read more.

Don't miss Boro at the Bucs this Saturday

Romba earns 2019 Staff Member of the Year Award

Nancy Romba has been the front line of Edinboro University’s School of Graduate Studies for nearly 12 years.

As a clerk typist 3 in the graduate studies office, Romba helps connect potential students with Edinboro’s 25 award-winning and nationally accredited graduate programs.

Because of her dedication to Edinboro University’s mission and her efforts to enhance the student experience on campus and online, Romba was granted Edinboro University’s Staff Member of the Year Award for 2019.

The Staff Member of the Year Award recognizes an Edinboro University staff member who demonstrates outstanding service to the Edinboro University community and its students.

“I feel very honored to win this award,” said Romba, who started her career at Edinboro in 1995 with continuing-education programming. “I’m proud of the work we have accomplished in the graduate studies office, and I look forward to continuing our success with each new class of students.”

Dr. Erinn Lake, executive director of Edinboro’s School of Graduate Studies, and several graduate program heads nominated Romba because of her commitment to the highest standards of achievement and attention to detail. Read more.

Support Edinboro students on Erie Gives Day

Edinboro earns second Military Spouse Friendly award

For the second consecutive year, Edinboro University earned national recognition for providing outstanding academic and support services to spouses of U.S. military veterans.

This month, GI Jobs magazine awarded Edinboro the Military Spouse Friendly award, which measures institutional commitment, effort and success in creating sustainable and meaningful experiences for the military spouse community.

“There is a great deal of stress and pressure for military families to either make a smooth transition to civilian life or continue education while their loved one is serving active duty,” said Andrew Matt, coordinator of Edinboro University’s Veterans Success Center. “We are extremely encouraged when military families come to Edinboro, as we are uniquely equipped to provide resources these families need for success.”

Military Friendly has ranked higher-education institutions for their commitment to U.S. military veterans for the past decade. In 2009, the organization dedicated resources to determining the best quality institutions for military families.

Colleges and universities included in the Military Spouse Friendly list were analyzed by industry experts using data from federal agencies and proprietary survey information. In 2019, 196 schools earned the distinction of Military Spouse Friendly. Read more.

Welcome to Edinboro University

Over the past several months, Edinboro University has welcomed the following new employees: Andrew Loomis and Paul Cornwell Jr. of Facilities; Melissa Grettler of the Social Work Department; Shelly Banta of Student Affairs; Haley Atkins and Ross Snow of Student Health Services; Terrence Mitchell of the Office of Social Equity; Sujata Norman of Counseling, School Psychology and Special Education; Lilly Logan of the School of Education; Travis Goss of Information Technology Services; and Oswald Hoff of Athletics. Welcome to the Fighting Scots family!

In addition to these new faces, Edinboro would like to recognize the following employees who were promoted or reclassified: Ashley Spears to Director of Facilities Management and Planning; Dr. Katherine Robbins to Director of Athletics; Sheila Taylor to Executive Assistant to the Provost; Marilyn Goellner to Vice President for Advancement; Lyle Sansoucie to Manager of Facilities Projects and Quality; Jill Linton to Manager of AV Integration and Event Technology; William Mix to Building Maintenance Supervisor, East Zone; William Berger to Director of Marketing and Brand Identity; Rachel Scofield to Coordinator of Special Events and Programs; Sharon Conklin to Associate Director of the Office for Accessibility Services; Stephanie Williams to Director of Clinical Experiences and Partnerships in the School of Education; Christopher Loveland to Director of Digital Strategy; Kristina Bodamer to Director of Accreditation and Program Improvement in the School of Education; Angela Burrows to Vice President for Marketing and Communications; Thomas Johns to Applications Developer 2; Austin Price to Information Technology Generalist 2; Sandra Byham to Management Technician; and Anthony McMullen to Director of Library Services.

Edinboro University also wishes the very best to retiring employees Coleen Panko and Cyndi Peterson of the President’s Office, Thomas Hoehn and Loyd Brown of Information Technology Services; Brenda Jones, Angel Ward and Michelle Gamble of the Custodial Department; Jay Hanes of the Art Department; Carol Sedler of Facilities and Jane Durovchic of University Police.

Fireworks return to Edinboro July 3

Learn more about estate planning at free program

Deborah W. Murphy, certified financial planner and senior vice president of the Murphy Advisory Group, will lead a planned giving lunch and learn program at Edinboro University on Tuesday, June 25. Sponsored by the Women’s Philanthropy Council, the free program will be held in Van Houten Dining Hall North from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. A buffet lunch will be provided.

“Why Everyone Should Have an Estate Plan” is limited to the first 40 registrants. Register at your.edinboro.edu/events/estate.

Murphy has more than 30 years of experience in the field. Her areas of expertise include money management, retirement and estate planning and assisting clients in pursuing their long-term investment objectives.

Check out the Spring 2019 issue of the Boro Magazine

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