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High Tech.Big Demand. See article on page 8

The Tower Serving Alumni, Parents and Friends of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology

Our Machine Tool & Com-puter-Aided Manufactur-

ing Program prepares students to enter the

workforce fields of CNC, CAM, tool making, mold making,

machine tool operating, quali-ty control, industrial sales, and

production or manufacturing.

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The Thaddeus Stevens Foundation is registered with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in compliance with its charitable organization law, and copies of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling toll free within Pennsylvania 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement by the Commonwealth.

The Tower is a service of the Thaddeus Stevens Foundation and Alumni Association. It is published quarterly. Current circulation is 7,500 to alumni, parents, trustees, faculty, corporations and friends.

John Yurchak, Jr. ’60, Foundation PresidentScott Trower ’80, Alumni Association PresidentAlex B. Munro ’60, Executive Directoramunro@stevenscollege.eduSophia E. Weibel, Editorseweibel@stevenscollege.eduMike Brady ‘05, Graphic Designer

740 East End AvenueLancaster, PA 17602(717) 295-9666 1-800-571-7324Fax: (717) 295-9652Federal Tax I.D. #23-6406980

Check our website at www.stevenscollege.edu or call the Foundation Office at 717-295-9666 for more information

on these events!

SAVE THE DATES FOR OUR SPECIAL

UPCOMING EVENTS!

Drawdown Dinner FundraiserSunday, March 18, 20125:00 p.m. – Historic Revere Tavern(Advance ticket required - Cost $150)

Spring Open House for AdmissionsSaturday, March 31, 20129:00 a.m. – Multipurpose Activity Center

Machine Tool & Computer Aided Manufacturing Reunion

Saturday, April 21, 2012 12:00 noon – Stevens Machine Program Lab

Spring Alumni BanquetSaturday, April 21, 20125:00 p.m. – Multipurpose Activity Center

CommencementSaturday, May 12, 20121:00 p.m. – Multipurpose Activity Center

Stevens Scramble Golf OutingFriday, June 15, 201212:30 p.m. – Overlook Golf Course

Thaddeus Stevens Birthday CelebrationFriday, April 13, 2012See related article on Page 12

Many of our readers of The Tower have told us how much they enjoy reading the “Class Notes” section of this publication. The news and accomplishments of our alumni are of great interest to fellow alums, faculty, staff and others. So we want to hear from you! Send us news of your businesses, careers, promotions, marriages, births, etc. Email correspondence is welcomed also - send to seweibel@stevenscollege.edu

Get In Touch

The Tower • 2012 Winter 3

From The President’s Desk

Greetings….

There is a saying that “if you do things the same way you have always done them you will get what you have always gotten”. I suggest that this is true of funding for higher education in Pennsylvania. Last year the Commonwealth spent approximately $2 billion on higher education. Of the results that are available regarding the return on investment (ROI) for that funding is the fact that approximately 87,287 baccalaureate degrees were awarded and approximately 19, 348 associate degrees. It should be noted that a significant number of the associate degrees were students preparing to enter baccalaureate degree programs. This would certainly be a justifiable expenditure of taxpayer funds if the graduates were all employed in jobs that required their degree. Unfortunately that is not the case. The reality is that since 1950 only twenty percent of the jobs in the economy have required a four-year degree and that percentage is not projected to change. Many four-year graduates are: unemployed; working in menial jobs that do not require a degree; moving out of state to find employment or still living at home; and burdened with large debt from loans taken to pay for their education. Yet as a society we continue to promote a four-year college education as the ideal for everyone, regardless of major and have established a set of supports and incentives that accommodate this goal. In short the system used to prepare young people to become productive citizens is broken. There is a mismatch between the output of higher education and the needs of the economy. For example last year in Pennsylvania we produced approximately 12,000 teachers for 3,000 jobs while a significant number of skilled technical jobs went unfilled as evidenced by the classified ads in newspapers across the State.

If the Commonwealth is going to increase its low job creation rate and generate economic development it must change its paradigm for higher education. This is especially true in our current economic environment where it is impossible to increase overall funding for higher education but the need for an effective higher education system that produces the workforce required by business and industry has never been more critical.

I believe the solution is very simple, base funding on performance that is tied to the needs of the Commonwealth. Support programs and institutions that produce graduates that are required by our economy. Rather than basing funding on historical appropriations and making across the board percentage increases or decreases, start from scratch. Approach funding from the perspective of zero based budgeting where all recipients of State funding must justify their funding requests based on performance. It would seem that some of the performance criteria should be: percentage of students who begin a program and graduate; percentage who graduate in the prescribed time (1 year, 2 years, 4 years, etc.); percentage who find employment in their field; percentage employed in Pennsylvania; equitable outcomes (access for a diverse student body); starting, average and median salaries of graduates at intervals of 1, 5, & 10 years; and average student loan debt of graduates. Not only should funding for colleges and universities be based on performance it should be extended to students who are receiving State grants. We should not be subsidizing students who are majoring in programs for which there is no demand for graduates. This may seem harsh but these are harsh economic times and hard decisions are required.

If a performance based funding model like I described above were implemented, the impact without spending any additional funds, would be an increase in programs like those offered at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. A College that: served a diverse student body; graduates sixty percent of incoming students in two-years; places 95 percents of its graduates in Pennsylvania; and whose graduates have modest to no student loan debt. Conversely programs who: graduate less than thirty percent of their students; place less than fifty percent of their students; place less than fifty percent in Pennsylvania; and whose graduates have significant student loan debt with no means of paying it back would not receive State funds in any form.

On occasion difficult times create the environment for change which can be avoided or deferred in more affluent times. I believe this is such a time, one that demands a change in the way higher education is viewed and supported. If you agree please contact your elected officials and make your opinion known.

Best regards,

William E. Griscom

Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology4

Class of 1984John Yoder (Architectural) was recently elected township supervisor for West Donegal Township, Lancaster. John is a registered architect and is employed at Lancaster Bible College as associate vice president for campus development. He also graduated from Drexel University.

Class of 1994Christopher McNeil (Printing) contacted the office to update his information. He has been married to wife Terry since 1997, they live in Lancaster and have 5 children, the oldest of whom will be attending college next year. Christopher is currently enrolled in graduate school at Lincoln University, pursuing a Master’s degree in counseling. He plans to become a licensed counselor and pursue a doctorate in psychology or counseling.

Jay Kleinsmith (Machine & Tool) stopped by the office to update his information. He is working as a machinist at Kellogg’s in Lancaster. Jay came to Stevens as a non-traditional student and is very grateful to Stevens for giving him the skills to secure a great career.

Class of 2001We received word that Shawn Ginder (Cabinetry) has been living and working in Vienna, Austria where he is a fulltime missionary.

From The Tower

Head Football Coach RetiresCongratulations to Coach Wysock on his recent retirement as head football coach at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. “We were privileged to have Coach Wysock as part of our team for so many years,” stated President William Griscom. “He has exemplified our athletics mission by not only developing strong players on the field, but also fostering lifelong values in each of the young men he has coached.”

The year 2011 marked Coach Wysock’s 5th season as head coach for the Stevens Bulldogs. Wysock finished his career at Stevens with a combined record of 40-11 and three Seaboard Conference Championships, including the first ever back-to-back championship won by this year’s team.

Coach Wysock began his coaching career at Stevens in the mid-1980’s as an Offensive Line Coach for then Head Coach George Burke. Wysock coached at Stevens while earning his teaching certification at Millersville University. He then accepted an English teaching position at Caesar Rodney High School in Dover, DE. There he coached football until an Offensive Line Coach position opened at Delaware State University. He then took the offensive line job at Wesley College under Head Coach Tim Keating before accepting a teaching and coaching position at Hempfield High School in Lancaster County where, in seven seasons as the Offensive Line Coach under Jack Yohe, the Black Knights won four Section 1 championships. His next position was at Manheim Township for 2 years before returning to Stevens in 1999 as Offensive Coordinator for Ron Zangari.

The Tower • 2012 Winter 5

Chester Robak Class of 1943 January 30, 2012

William Oakwood Class of 1952 – Electric May 20, 2011

Ronald Kirtinitis Class of 1955 – Drafting June 9, 2011

Harold Hosler Class of 1956 – Carpentry October 20, 2011

John Schuchart Class of 1958 – Mechanical Drafting December 27, 2011

Benjamin Schriver Class of 1961 – Machine December 11, 2011

Clarence “Butch” Moyer Class of 1962 – Carpentry December 10, 2011

Harvey Adams Class of 1965 – Bake Shop February 5, 2012

Leonard Adams Class of 1965 – Carpentry December 27, 2011

Joseph Smarsh Class of 1965 – Electric January 13, 2012

Richard Mendini Class of 1966 – Machine September 8, 2011

Vincent Doyle Class of 1992 – Electric November 20, 2011

Michael J. Winn Former Trustee February 7, 2012

In Memoriam

Tribute to James E. Weaver ’51 (Machine)We sadly announce the passing of Jim Weaver, a 1951 graduate of Stevens, on December 16, 2011. Mr. Weaver dedicated 44 years of his life as an instructor in the Machine Technology program at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, where he was much loved and respected by a countless number of students.

Mr. Weaver was 90 years old at the time of his death. He and his wife, Mary, were married for 59 years and lived in Leola, PA. He was a World War II Army Air Force veteran. In addition to his wife, Mr. Weaver is survived by a son, Jan Eric Weaver; a daughter Amy Weaver Shea and granddaughters Allison and Audrey Weaver.

Alumni Association Board Welcomes New MemberThe Thaddeus Stevens Alumni Association Board of Governors and the Thaddeus Stevens Foundation Board of Directors welcomes Joseph J. Wysock, III as their newest member.

Joe is a 2006 graduate of the Carpentry program at Stevens. He then went on to Pennsylvania College of Technology, Williamsport, where he earned a bachelor’s

degree in Residential Construction Management. He is an assistant project manager for Benchmark Construction, Lancaster.

JP McCaskey High School is a school that offers its students an opportunity to excel in almost anything he or she decides to do. That was where I learned about the dual enrollment program for high school students who perform well academically. McCaskey seniors can spend their last year at an accredited

college earning college credits while earning high school credits toward graduation. After speaking with my high school advisor, I found myself one day walking to Thaddeus Stevens College, not knowing I was walking the very same path as many successful individuals. I selected the Architectural Technology program since one day I wanted to become an architectural engineer.

The first year wasn’t easy, but fortunately, Stevens allows students who maintain high academic records to continue their education with the Thaddeus Stevens Legacy grant, which I received for the next year. In such an enriching environment, programs and organizations became available to me, such as leadership development through student congress, and career development through the architectural internship program. It goes without saying that what is available at Stevens is something special that students should utilize – there is a plethora of resources and readily available information.

Having fulfilled my degree requirements, I graduated at age 20 with an associate’s degree in Architecture from Thaddeus Stevens College. Using the skills and tools from my Stevens education, I was interviewed by Armstrong World Industries and was hired as a CAD specialist. While there, I continued developing skills to teach others and joined a smaller committee that mentors students at JP McCaskey High School. At 21 years of age, I found myself mentoring students who were 3 or 4 years younger than me, and I realized then how fortunate I was to be there.

In 2008 my position at Armstrong had been eliminated due to the economy and things looked dark at that time. But in actuality, this was an opportunity. Prior to my departure from Armstrong, they offered to pay a portion of my tuition to continue my education in engineering. I’m currently a student at Millersville University and expect to graduate this May with a Bachelors of Applied Engineering with an OSEH minor. Thanks to the path I took at Stevens, I can look back and say with pride, “I am a Bulldog!”

Eng inee r ing Succes sMIGUEL MARGARITO

Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology

The Director’s Corner

Dear Alumni and Friends of the College:

I would like to open by extending happy greetings to all our alumni and friends from everyone at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, as we’re now in the midst of setting our goals and expectations for 2012.

I’m sure you rememberThere’s an abundance of excitement among our sophomore class as they’re getting poised with overflowing anticipation in knowing

graduation day is May 12, which is just a few months away. If we can take a moment to think back to our own graduation day, you too can remember the excitement and enthusiasm we had about entering the real work world. In reality, it’s something that we would be doing for the rest of our lives. Was it a concerning factor? Yes, it was, but now before us was the test of time when we would call upon our Stevens experience with confidence and not doubt that we were thoroughly taught and trained in our trade or technical field, which would undoubtedly provide us with a lifetime of financial sustainability and success. When we walked off this campus, it was a sad yet happy time

in our lives. We were happy to be graduating, and yet sad to leave our alma mater. To many, including myself, this was our home.

Stevens was the place of transition growing from the spring of our youth to skilled tradesmen and technicians, ready to meet the competitive challenges of business and industry. We’re proud of you as well as for you, that each of you played a major part in the outstanding historical success Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology has enjoyed over the last 107 years. You’re a living testimony for the exponential growth of Stevens College today. We want you to know you’re the very best representatives that Stevens ever had. At our annual job fair we’ll have over a hundred employers ready to hire our graduates on the spot because they know the Stevens experience consistently produces the finest skilled young people for Pennsylvania industries year after year and that goes unmatched.

In gratitudeEveryone at Stevens sincerely thanks each of you for your written support and calls made to your representing leadership of our great Commonwealth expressing your concerning interest that the funding needs of Stevens College is appropriated in proportion to our institutional growth. It refreshes the heart to have a Governor who places a very high value on technical education. He definitely knows what the financial returns of a Stevens experience mean to the State.

Invest in the future.When you make a gift to Stevens today, you are investing in tomorrow’s skilled workforce. Your support helps provide students with opportunities to turn talent and ambition into action, making an immediate impact on the world!

Make your annual gift to the Stevens Annual Fund by returning the envelope in this issue, or by visiting stevenscollege.edu/giving.

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The Tower • 2012 Winter 7

We’re happy to say Governor Corbett, in announcing his new budget for 2012-2013, gave Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology level funding, which is the same as last year and that’s an economic and educational blessing. Stevens will also receive $5,750,000 in capital funding for the expansion and construction of a new dining hall. The functionality of this project is one of necessity as our enrollment continues to grow so rapidly. Stevens has a realistic goal of reaching 2000 students within the next 5-10 years. We tested over 2800 students who had a dream to attend Stevens. Unfortunately, we could only receive about 500 young men and women in their pursuit for a two year associate degree; the others had to be turned away. As we go forward, our quest for a new Technology Center will be given top priority as we make future presentations before the members of the Pennsylvania General Assembly.

With the astute leadership of President Griscom and his administration, Stevens College will proceed with prudence, without sacrificing the quality or technical excellence of any of our 17 majors. Our dedicated faculty is to be applauded for their contribution to the nationwide recognition of Stevens College for their outstanding collegiate performance in technical education.

More information on your alma mater as you requestedOur Branch Campus renovations are in full swing with demolition taking place in strategic areas on a systematic basis. All the contractors are reminded weekly that they have a very stringent but doable schedule to complete the project in the 10 months which will give us a completion date around the last week of August 2012. There’s a lot of administrative planning going on regarding future facility usage and new technical programs that Stevens will be offering.

Planning the future nowThe Rettew Company is currently working collaboratively with a large Stevens committee in developing a very defined Master Plan for the growth of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology over the next five to ten years. The planning process is moving fairly well despite volumes of the information required to make the numerous academic decisions for the growth of Stevens College. I have to say, it’s been an exciting experience that’s being driven by the rapid advancement of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology in our growth and service to the young men and women in Pennsylvania through trade and technical training.

Restoration of the Mellor AuditoriumSometimes in preparing for projects with a great historical legacy, it takes a considerable amount of time and research for authenticity of design. Within the same venue we need to establish a pictorial gallery honoring Lydia Hamilton Smith and the women of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. This estimated $380,000 undertaking will capture the dignity and perseverance of early women in their quest to succeed in a man’s world, as some may say. It will be a tribute to all the women past, present and future, giving special meaning to the women who participated in the 1976 transition of Stevens College from an all-male school to a co-ed institution of higher learning. It’s a great story with a rich heritage of change and equality. The Lydia Hamilton Smith Gallery will offer a memorable walk through time as we recognize the women who blazed the competitive academic trail of opportunity to obtain a technical education through the Stevens experience.

This is one exciting project that you’ll want to be a part of. With your help, we’ll bring this great tribute of the women of Stevens to reality. For all who embrace our mission of changing the lives of disadvantaged young people through technical education, it will be a gallery of personal admiration and historical pride. You’ll receive more information once our campaign kick-off date is established. If you have any questions about making an early contribution, please call me at 717-295-9666 and I’ll be happy to work with you as a supporting partner.

I close with a thought of inspiration

The rewards of giving bring joy to the heart as we see the gratification of those whose lives we’ve changed forever. There’s no regret when you invest in Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology.

Respectfully,

Alex B. Munro

Executive Director

8

For over 100 years the Machine Tool & Computer Aided Manufacturing program has evolved with the staggering changes in technology while maintaining a solid reputation recognized by employers throughout the state. The technology has changed, the name of the program has changed, instructors have come and gone, but one thing remains unchanged: graduates of the Machining Program at Thaddeus Stevens College get jobs.

Many of the students in the Machine Tool Program find employment in the field before they graduate. Working at night, over the weekends, and during the summer months, these students are proving that their skills are needed and that they are receiving these skills as students of the Machining Program at Thaddeus Stevens College. Currently, 40% of the first year students are working part-time in the field while 80% of the graduating class has been employed in the field during their time at Thaddeus Stevens College.

Andrea Glenn, from Parkesburg, PA, is an example of how the Machine Tool Program gives students the skills to be successful. A 2009 graduate, Andrea works for the Strasburg Railroad Company making replacement parts for antique steam locomotives. On a daily basis she runs both antiquated machine tools, such as a Duchess Planer, and modern CNC machines. “The CNC skills I learned at Stevens gave me a definite advantage where I work. I was the only person that knew how to run the CNC machines when I was hired. Stevens was a very positive experience,” reports Andrea.

Despite its excellent job placement rate and the continued success of its graduates, the Machine Tool Program struggles each year to find qualified students. Regardless of an industry-wide demand for highly skilled workers in machining, schools around the country are closing their machining programs due to a lack of interest among young people. Many young people perceive jobs in machining as

Machine Tool & Computer Aided Manufacturing

The Tower • 2012 Winter 9

Travis Esh is from New Providence, PA and is currently a senior at Solanco High School. Through a dual-enrollment agreement between Thaddeus Stevens College and Solanco High School, Travis is spending his senior year of high school attending the Machine Tool Program at Stevens. After one semester in the Machine Tool program, Travis has already been hired by L&S Tool & Machine, in York, PA. He works 18 hours per week running CNC equipment.

Travis became interested in machining because his family is very active in racing 600 micro-sprints. He has always been around racing and the building of race cars and eventually became particularly interested in the machining of race car parts. His path led him to the Machine Tool Program at Stevens and he is scheduled to graduate in 2013.

Chad Turner is from Mertztown, PA and he attended Brandywine Heights High School. Chad was the recipient of the Astro Machine Works scholarship this past year and will be graduating this May.

Chad became interested in machining because he was interested in gunsmithing and he decided to attend Thaddeus Stevens College’s Machine Tool Program so that he could advance himself in that trade. With very little experience before attending, Chad has excelled in the Machine Tool Program and worked during this past summer for East Penn Manufacturing in Lyon Station, PA. Since he has been exposed to machining, Chad has become aware of other opportunities and no longer plans to pursue gunsmithing but hopes to “get the best paying job possible at a good solid company.” Chad is also considering the possibility of going back to school at some point to become an engineer.

Travis Esh

Chad Turnerloud, dirty, and mindlessly repetitive. Another perception is that machining is an unnecessary and dying trade. These perceptions are just simply not the case.

Simply ask graduates such as Sherri Linetty, from Conestoga, PA, and Luke Jones, of Renovo, PA, about the machining trade. A 2007 graduate of the Machine Tool program, Sherri is a Technical Associate for TE Connectivity. She programs and troubleshoots CNC machining centers and CMM machines. Luke, a 2001 graduate, also works for TE Connectivity as a Tool and Die Maker. On a daily basis Luke troubleshoots, maintains, and builds new tooling for high speed progressive dies. When asked, Luke states that his experience was very good and that it made him ready for real-world applications. “I had no experience until I attended Stevens but I had no trouble being able to run and operate machine tools after graduation. The school is very respected in the area.”

It cannot be denied that manufacturing has seen serious layoffs over the years but most jobs that have been lost have been manual labor jobs, such as assembly-line workers. Those jobs that remain and need to be filled are the more intellect and reasoning-based jobs and there is a shortage of highly trained, skilled employees with these specific educational backgrounds and skills. A study done by the National Association of Manufacturers concluded that the largest impediment to future growth is the lack of a skilled workforce.

The Machine Tool Program at Thaddeus Stevens College is providing students with the skills they need to be successful in the manufacturing industry and our 100% job placement rate is proof that employers need and want our graduates. If you, or someone you know, think they have what it takes to be successful in the high-demand machining trade then make arrangements to attend Thaddeus Stevens College to get the unique skills that industry is demanding and become part of the tradition.

By Ron Schwartz ‘88 Instructor

The technology has changed, the name of the program has changed, instructors have come and gone, but one thing

remains unchanged: graduates of the Machining Program at Thaddeus Stevens College get jobs.

Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology10

Development NewsAllen E. Tate, Director of Development

Collaboration and Partnerships Enhance the College’s Educational Experience.

Recently, Thaddeus Stevens College has been developing important collaborations and partnerships with community organizations, foundations and corporations that have either funded or provided challenge grants for educational programs. In challenging economic times, such partnerships and collaborations are essential to the life of the College, as they benefit both the students and the community.

One such new partnership and collaboration is with The Ddora Foundation. Located in New York, the Foundation seeks to benefit endeavors in the fine and applied arts, cultural preservation, and education, and is especially interested in the preservation of historical craftsmanship trades. Prior to awarding the College a grant, Foundation representatives visited the campus, toured the facilities, spoke with students and faculty and even sat in on a class. They were impressed by our mission and the people they met and wanted to do something that would augment the educational experience of Thaddeus Stevens students.

Through a major grant awarded by the Ddora Foundation, the College has developed a Summer Apprenticeship Program, also in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Historical Museum Commission (PHMC). It is specifically related to the historical preservation and building craftsmanship trades. This program will help students gain education, training and on-the-job experience working under the guidance of master craftsmen at various PHMC sites in Pennsylvania.

Three apprenticeships are open to second-year TSCT students in the cabinetmaking & wood technology, carpentry, masonry, metal fabrication, collision repair and automotive programs. One of the apprenticeships involves working exclusively with metal fabrication and restoration. The other two positions involve wood and/or masonry preservation. Students will work under a team of master craftsmen not only in each of the traditional fields, but will also be exposed to related crafts like blacksmithing, tinsmithing, cabinetmaking, train engine restoration, stone/masonry walls and house pointing, carpentry and porch and window sash repair, etc. all with the skills needed for preservation trades. This will promote understanding of these artisan skills, as well as the preservation construction trades.

These positions will be on the sites of various of Pennsylvania’s living history museums including The Daniel Boone Homestead, Birdsboro, PA; the Fairmount Park Trust, Philadelphia, PA; the Landis Valley Museum, Lancaster, PA; and The Railroad Museum, Strasburg, PA. One of the projects that an apprentice will have this summer will be the opportunity to work on the restoration of the famed “Lindberg” engine, a nationally significant locomotive, located at the Strasburg Railroad Museum. This 10-12 week paid apprentice program begins in late May and earns College credit for participation. It is a great opportunity for Stevens College students and provides an opportunity to expand their educational training under additional master craftsmen.

There are many other partnership opportunities for companies, foundations and individuals in which to sponsor and make a difference. Sponsorship support is available at all personal or corporate budget levels. The following are various projects currently in progress which we are seeking funding partners to complete the projects. Maybe there is an opportunity below that you may be interested in supporting.

Annual Student ScholarshipsScholarship funding needs exist for each of the major programs. You can establish an annual named scholarship or an endowed scholarship with specific funding levels. A contribution to the General Scholarship Fund can also be submitted for funding below $1000. With over 900 students your support is appreciated. Scholarship information is available through the Development or Foundation Offices.

New EquipmentA Granite Surface Plate and Stand for the Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) Program. ($1000)

Summer Experience Technology Camp SponsorshipsOur Stevens Summer Experience Technology programs are very popular. They include TechGyrls program – for middle grades; Digital Camp- a graphic Communications & photography camp for middle and High school Students, and various others. Sponsorship for each camp varies depending on the total hours and days the students are on campus. This is a high reward program that introduces students to their potential and their dreams.

Workforce Development and Training LaboratoryThe establishment a $200,000, 5,180 sq. ft. multipurpose lab on the 4th floor of the Branch Campus that will serve as a training laboratory benefitting area students, residents, businesses and industries. The lab will assist the incumbent workers, unemployed, and underemployed in identifying skill areas which they are capable of pursuing and begin to train for new careers in highly available technology fields.

Metal Fabrication and Welding LabA $250,000 Campaign Fund – There is a significant need on campus for newly expanded and renovated facilities for this technology program. There is a high demand for more graduates in this department and to meet the need we must renovate and install new equipment. We already have one lead gift but need more to match it.

In challenging economic times, such partnerships and collaborations are essential to the life of the College, as they benefit both

the students and the community.

The Tower • 2012 Winter 11

Happenings in Academic AffairsDr. William Tompson, Vice President

Several months ago it was reported that the College was looking at new options in the scheduling of courses and programs. In addition to the normal daytime schedule for vocational programs, it was thought that an evening program might be of interest to the workforce community. To study this concept, a pilot program in Electrical Technology was launched in Fall 2011 semester such that the entire series of related courses would be delivered in the evenings and Saturday. It is with pleasure to announce that the pilot has been successful, and a full

class of students continues in this evening program during the Spring 2012 semester.

With this success, the College plans to offer three additional programs during the evening and Saturday hours in Fall 2012. These include programs in Machine Tool Technology, HVAC-R, and Business Administration. Other programs are being considered for future academic years.

After lengthy discussions it appears that Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology (TSCT) and Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC) will finally partner in the delivery of technical training. Beginning with the Fall 2012 semester, HACC students in Lancaster will be able to attend vocational programs at TSCT, and transfer the credits back to the home college for graduation. The first program

that will be made available will be the evening offering of HVAC-R. If a student enrolls on a full time basis, that person will complete 22 contact hours of training four nights per week and Saturdays. If the partnership is successful, more programs will be made available in future academic years.

Faculty search committees have been formed and are currently reviewing applicants for vacant positions in Machine Tool Technology, Graphics Design and Printing Technology, Carpentry Technology, and Automobile Mechanics. These vacancies occurred as a result of the retirements of Mr. Tom Dennes, Mr. Dennis Dougherty, Mr. Ron Webber, and Mr. Jeff Deascenti, respectively. In late December, Mrs. Patricia Wilds of the Mathematics Department submitted her retirement papers, and the search for her replacement will begin in February.

Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology is looking to expand the numbers of students it prepares for the workforce in Pennsylvania. Within a few years, it is projected that enrollment will grow to a headcount of 1200 students.

In addition to all the support services and facilities required to accommodate this number, new vocational programs will need to be added. After a study of high pay, high demand occupations that meet the College’s mission, the programs that are under consideration for adoption include Building Maintenance, Industrial Maintenance (Mechatronics), Welding, Residential Remodeling and Renovation, Computer Software Engineering, Water Treatment and Management, Construction Supervision and Management, and Diesel Mechanics.

The Smart Classroom ProjectA Multimedia Classroom that engages interactive technology to assist the program instructors with class lecture, engaging different student learning skills, and developing successful students. Our desire is to convert 9 existing classrooms to this type of technology. Each classroom runs about $25,000.

Housing Construction ProgramEach year the second-year students in the construction trades fields build a duplex home as their hands-on learning project. The construction of these houses becomes their learning labs. We are in need of all the materials necessary to build each house, including wood, stone , cement, rebar, drywall , brick, siding, roofing, windows and doors, HVAC, electrical and plumbing supplies , flooring, carpet and all appliances. We welcome an opportunity to partner with your company.

SponsorshipSponsorship of one of our major Technology Programs on the College’s new MYFUTURECAREER website

Our wish list is longer, but these are just some of the featured needs that exist. Over the next year you will hear and see more of these programs as Thaddeus Stevens College continues to prepare our technology

programs to reach the needs of both students and the workforce they are about to enter.

If you have an interest in exploring any item on this list or others as a collaborator or sponsor please give me a call at 717-391-7285 or visit www.stevenscollege.edu/giving and let’s discuss how we can partner together in these educational programs. Perhaps we can forge a new idea and collaborate on a new partnership. Naming opportunities exist within each of these campaigns and funding support is welcomed at all levels. Your gift of any size makes a difference.

Thaddeus Stevens endowed us with a vision that keeps growing successfully. Now all we need is each of us answering the call of “how can I keep his vision growing?” If you haven’t been on campus, please make an effort to visit us in the near future. There are many opportunities including the Alumni Weekend. The Stevens College Development staff looks forward your call.

Allen E. Tate

Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology12

WGAL-TV 8’s Ron Martin to emcee the 2012 Spring Alumni Banquet

1962 Class Reunion

You won’t want to miss spring at Stevens this year! Whether you’re a recent graduate or a 50-year reunion alum, we hope to see you on campus.

As a newly added feature this year, the Machine Tool & Computer Aided Manufacturing program will hold a special reunion on Saturday, April 21st from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. in the lab.

This is open to all those interested – alumni, prospective Machine program students, parents and industry representatives. If you’re interested, contact Mr. Ron Schwartz, Machine Instructor, at 717-391-6956 It is our hope that additional programs will hold reunions for their areas in the future as we explore new ways to connect our alumni to each other and to their alma mater.

Annual Business Meeting.

Please make note that the Alumni Association’s annual business meeting will move to a NEW TIME this year: 4:00 p.m. in Jones Conference Room. Since our attendance at this meeting has been dropping off in recent years, we’re moving it to right before the start of the Alumni Banquet social hour.

This year’s Spring Alumni Banquet will feature WGAL-TV 8’s anchorman Ron Martin as our emcee.

We will honor 11 outstanding individuals with 2012 Alumni Award recognitions, we’ll give special honor to the Class of 1962 for their 50th reunion, and welcome the Class of 2012 as they prepare to become our newest members of the Stevens Alumni Association.

SeminarThaddeus Stevens College – No charge 10:00 AM Guest Sign-In 10:30 AM The Making of an Abolitionist Speaker: Dr. Bradley R. Hoch 12:00 Noon Thaddeus Stevens: leader in Congress’s Journey to Full Emancipation Speaker: Prof. Beverly Palmer 1:00 PM Buffet Lunch 2:00 PM Thaddeus Stevens as Portrayed in FilmSpeaker: Mr. Ross Hetrick

Graveside Ceremony & Presentation of Gorelick AwardFriday, April 13, 2012 - 4:30 PM Shreiner-Concord Cemetery North Mulberry and West Chestnut Streets Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Evening ProgramCocktail Hour & Dinner (Cost: $50/per person) Friday, April 13, 2012 5:30 PM Lancaster County Convention Center Lancaster Pennsylvania 5:30 Cocktail Reception (cash bar) Tour of Stevens Property (optional) 6:30 PM Dinner and Program

Rediscovering the Legacy of Thaddeus Stevens: 220th Birthday Celebration

For more information on any of the above events, please contact Diane Ambruso at 717-299-7754

The Tower • 2012 Winter 13

Evening ProgramCocktail Hour & Dinner (Cost: $50/per person) Friday, April 13, 2012 5:30 PM Lancaster County Convention Center Lancaster Pennsylvania 5:30 Cocktail Reception (cash bar) Tour of Stevens Property (optional) 6:30 PM Dinner and Program

Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology14

By Charles T. Byers

The fall of 2011 brought many changes to the Carpentry Department. After 22 years of teaching, Ron Webber retired as a freshman instructor. Dan Noel moved from the sophomore class and returned to the freshman program fulltime. Both Dan and Tim Draper ’92 have reorganized the projects and outcomes for the Freshman Year.

Charlie Byers ’79 and his sophomore students began building the last duplex home. The total sophomore class has 37 students to complete the Lehigh Heights Project, assisted by Dan Noel teaching theory to the afternoon Carpentry class.

Currently, the project is near completion of the outside and the inside is having the drywall finished and interior trim installed. During the fall semester we experienced 29 days of delays, mostly weather related.

The program is pursuing a curriculum for Residential Remodeling and Restoration to become a fulltime program beginning in the fall of 2013. Our Craft Advisory Committee has met and continues to help advice us with new members. James Perron ’89 was elected Chairman and Larry Gerlach Vice- Chairman for the 2011-2012 academic term.

Carpentry Department Update

Making a Difference!On a blustery late-fall weekend, a team of volunteers, headed up by Deron Benedict ’89, planted bag after bag of perennials, shrubbery and other plants donated by a local business undergoing landscape reconstruction. Thanks to this hardy band of dedicated gardeners, the Stevens campus will look beautiful this coming spring!

Another much-needed campus project that was undertaken by members of the Alumni Association was the total repainting of the Women’s Center, located in the Mellor Building. Women’s Center Coordinator, Brandy Stremba, expressed sincere thanks to this dedicated group of volunteer painters and noted that the Women’s Center now has a warm and inviting gathering place for students, faculty and staff to enjoy.

Special thanks to:Deron Benedict Steve Black Mike Lare Vince Lattanzio

Paul Stamm Don Testerman Scott Trower John Yurchak

THANK YOU VOLUNTEERS!

This gold Buick Wildcat has a custom 2-door hardtop. Mileage is 79,191 and

has only 4,525 miles since being rebuilt in 1996. This classic has: a 401 V-8

engine, 325 BHP, 4400 RPM, B-Body Platform, 3-speed automatic Dynafl ow

transmission, 2.73 ratio rear axle, re-covered headliner

and sun visors, re-stitched driver’s seat, new panel on

left end, and new panel on backseat top. And, it generates

445 FP-LB and runs well, no fl uid leaks. All mechanicals

are rebuilt and the radio is fully operational.

Proceeds to benefi t Thaddeus Stevens Foundation

For tickets call Thaddeus Stevens Foundation at 717-295-9666

or 1-800-571-7324. Send check payable to Thaddeus Stevens

Foundation, 740 East End Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17602.

Thaddeus Stevens Foundation is a non-profi t organization that supports Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology and its mission of providing trade and technical educational opportunities to fi nancially disadvantaged young people through student scholarships, lab equipment, a new home construction program and more.

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www.stevenscollege.edu

Drawing to be held on March 18, 2012.$10 per ticket or $100 for book of 125,100 tickets will be sold.

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SPRING ALUMNI WEEKEND SCHEDULEAPRIL 20–21, 2012

Friday, April 20

6:00 – 9:00 p.m. Class of 1962—50th Reunion

Welcome Reception at the Lancaster Host Resort

Saturday, April 21 (all activities held on campus)

12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Machine Technology Reunion Reception For alumni, prospective students and industry representatives

Machine Tool & Computer Aided Technology Lab

4:00 p.m. Annual Alumni Association Business Meeting Jones Conference Room

5:00 p.m. Stevens Alumni Banquet Social Hour Multipurpose Activity Center (MAC)

6:30 p.m. Alumni Banquet & Awards Presentations Multipurpose Activity Center (MAC)

Please go to www.stevenscollege.edu for more information Or contact the Stevens Alumni Office(717) 295-9666 or seweibel@stevenscollege.edu

Please Note New Schedule This Year!

Reservations are requested for all events. Banquet Reservation form inside this issue.

Non-Profit OrganizationU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 1354

Lancaster, PA 17604

The Thaddeus Stevens Foundation Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology740 East End Avenue • Lancaster, PA 17602-3714

Address Service Requested