Thiel College is hosting philanthropist, photojournalist, and nationally renowned speaker Saul Flores at 11 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 21 in Bly Hall in the Academic Center as part of its Common Hour programming to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
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Thiel College is hosting the domestic premiere and panel discussion for the highly anticipated movie “SpookT” on Friday, September 22.
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T-Notes is looking for reader feedback. What do readers enjoy; what do they want to see more of; what do they want to see less of?
Thiel College, in particular, the humanities departments, are grateful to Ruthanne Beighley ’72 H’20 for endowing the humanities disciplines so that a Humanities Series event is now held once a month during the fall semester. This seminar series provides students, especially those in the humanities and related fields, with the opportunity to hear from and talk to alumni about their career paths. On Wednesday, Sept. 13, the first formal panel-and-dinner event occurred. For each of the panels that will occur this semester, a humanities department serves as host. For the September 13 event, the Department of English served as host, with English Capstone/Political Science Seminar students attending the panel and, additionally, the English majors attending the subsequent dinner. Sheila Gross, Ph.D. ’10, who, along with Professor of History David Buck, Ph.D., serve as the coordinators of the Beighley Series and were in attendance, as were Buck’s students from his History Capstone course. Professor of Philosphy Matthew Morgan, Ph.D.; President Susan Traverso, Ph.D.; Vice President for Academic Affairs Greg Q. Butcher, Ph.D.; Associate Dean for Academic Success Jared Hanneman, Ph.D.; and First Year Curriculum Coordinator and Lecturer of English Sean Oros ’15 joined the students.
The second panel/dinner will be hosted by the Department of History on Wednesday, October 11, and the third panel will be held on Wednesday, November 8, and will be hosted by the Philosophy/Religion Departments.
Gross served as panel moderator on September 13 and questioned the panelists about their time at Thiel and how it prepared them for their careers; the course or courses they found most helpful; the course or courses they would like to see added to the English curriculum; how they translated their humanities education to skills they could place on a résumé/graduate school application; and what they would like current students to know about “launching” from the undergraduate experience to whatever comes next.
The panelists were Abby Charsar Ainsley ’12 and Sydnee Pilarski ’22. Ainsley graduated from Thiel with a major in English and a secondary education certification. For the past 10 years, she has served as a Language Arts teacher at Sharpsville Area Middle School.
Pilarski graduated from Thiel with a major in English, a secondary education certification and an art minor. She is now at Indiana University of Pennsylvania working towards an M.A. in literature and composition. She is a graduate assistant working on the Pennsylvania English journal as the assistant editor and art editor. She is also pursuing an independent research project exploring literary and artistic traditions and connections between the Psalms and Salvador Dali’s surrealist desert paintings.
Following are some student reflections from this first panel-dinner event.
Lessons Learned
I found that an important lesson stressed by the two presenters was that each course in college will be useful in one’s career…. I was particularly struck by the emphasis on taking the “leap of faith” with graduate school and in education as a career. Both speakers emphasized a need to let go of second-guessing and to take initiative in all things, which I found to be an important message at this point of my career. Sydnee shared my dual interest in English and mathematics. I agree with both panelists’ reflections on the importance of STEM courses to a well-balanced academic career. Roxanne Cianci ’24
The content knowledge taught by Thiel professors more than prepared the panelists for graduate school and the teaching profession. It enabled them to build confidence and critical thinking skills. The panelists were delighted that an area of interest to me—Digital Rhetoric—is now taught at Thiel. Thiel is a safe place to make mistakes before entering the professional world…. While the formality of the dinner was intimidating, it was an enjoyable experience. Alex Henry ’24
The skills we use in everyday life may be transferred to the résumé. I most appreciated their belief that wherever Thiel alumni go, they are an asset, that we should take initiative, think on our feet, and that we should not be intimidated in our future career or in graduate school. Isabella Lampadarios ’24
I learned from both speakers what a positive impact Thiel College can have on your future. Jordan Lang ’25
Networking is crucial to (teaching) employment positions. Though some rumors about post-graduate school are true, they aren’t all true or as bad as people say. Authority and appearance are vital in teaching. A good presenter must be adaptable in order to be effective. Bradley Molnar ’24
One of the lessons I learned was that humanities majors can really do a lot of different things. The most important thing to do is network and connect with as many people as possible as this opens the door to many opportunities in the future. Chad Morningstar ’25
One of the most important lessons I learned during my time at the Ruthanne Beighley Humanities Panel discussion was never to become complacent or to think you are a complete expert in your field of study. There is always room for improvement. Moreover, I learned that no matter how much you now think you know about the content, it is ultimately your passion and enthusiasm for, not only the material, but the art of teaching itself that truly makes you a great educator…. The dinner experience was inspiring and, in sum, was nothing short of fantastic! Mark Permigiani ’24
I learned the importance of skills such as critical thinking and communication. Personally, I consider these skills to be highly important. However, hearing testimony from the panelists about the type of teacher needed in public schools helped me to look at it through a new lens. I also learned the importance of academic research and writing and to be willing to take risks when researching. The interdisciplinary skills that stem from having a strong English background are, undeniably, important…. I enjoyed the intimate dinner setting that allowed for great conversations and personal connections with the panelists as well as faculty. Samantha Reid ’24
The evening event ended with a round of applause, not simply for the answers presented but in recognition of the striving for knowledge and daily strides towards excellence which both speakers exhibited fluently. Gavin Sankey’25
I learned to soak up as much of the content and knowledge I possibly can in my time at Thiel. My major [Political Science] is what I love and what I am interested in, and these are the concepts and ideas I will be relying on for my career. I learned not to let my imposter syndrome stop me from taking opportunities and enjoying the things in front of me. I have already done so much; I can do what’s next, as well…. I’ve never taken the time to think about the presence of an educator and how that alone can change the behavior of a group of students. Kylie Vergnola ’24
I appreciated the panelists’ advice to take initiative, make decisions for ourselves, and trust our professional opinion. They also cautioned us not to be intimidated, second guess ourselves, or be afraid to take risks. I also found it comforting that they reassured us that we are much more prepared than we think we are. The skills they learned in English classes have helped them to be effective communicators in terms of both writing and speaking. Allison Walsh ’24
The Final Word
It was such a wonderful experience to be able to have a professional meal with the speakers and my peers and professors. I am honored to have had the opportunity to act as concierge and could not be more pleased with how the meal turned out. I cannot even pick a favorite aspect of the meal – it was the best I have had in a long time! As always, it was great to hear from Thiel graduates about their stories; I have gleaned a great deal of wisdom from them over the years! Abby’s and Sydnee’s perspectives were particularly helpful because I don’t get many chances to speak to former humanities majors. However, that makes me all the more excited for the remaining Ruthanne Beighley Humanities Speaker Series! Allison Walsh ’24
For more information, contact men’s soccer coach Zack Walters.
The Thiel College Cheer Team led story time at the Greenville Public Library Thursday, Sept. 14.
HR Notes
Participants in the Thiel College retirement plan can meet with independent Retirement Plan Advisor, Jack Ryan from HB Retirement, will be on campus at Thiel for individual meetings on Wednesday, October 4. Ryan is available to support retirement planning needs through conference calls and virtual meetings as well. His office hours can be selected below.
Ryan will be on campus on Wednesday, October 4.
Ryan is available on September 21 and 25 for online sessions.
Ryan can assist you with questions regarding:
Thiel College says farewell to:
Mindfulness and Meditation
Sept. 20 from 6–7 p.m.
David Johnson Memorial Chapel
Mindfulness with Pastor Brian Riddle ’07 is a variety of stretching, movement, and meditation designed to promote harmony between your body and mind, so that you may heal and grow in all the areas of your life. It is non-religious, and helpful whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner. It will be held every Wednesday when classes are in session.
For more information, contact Pastor Riddle at ext. 2130.
Women’s Soccer: Washington & Jefferson College at Thiel
Sept. 20 at 5 p.m.
Alumni Stadium at Stoeber Field
Thiel hosts Washington & Jefferson College in women’s soccer.
For more information, contact Sports Information.
Men’s Soccer: Washington & Jefferson College at Thiel
Sept. 20 at 7:30 p.m.
Alumni Stadium at Stoeber Field
Thiel hosts Washington & Jefferson College in women’s soccer.
For more information, contact Sports Information.
Career Tabling: Equitable Advisors
Sept. 21 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Howard Miller Student Center hallway
Students, faculty and staff can meet and greet a representative from Equitable Advisors to learn about open job and internship opportunities.
For more information, contact Liza Schaef at ext. 2063.
Common Hour: Hispanic Heritage Month
Sept. 21 from 11 a.m. to noon
Bly Hall, Academic Center
Saul Flores, a masterful story teller, social innovator, and powerful voice for change will offer an enriching experience to celebrate Hispanic communities' cultural diversity and contributions.
Sigma Kappa Stacks
Sept. 21 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Howard Miller Student Center, near the TC Cafe
Place an order and have pancakes delivered between 7-10 p.m. Friday. Cost is 1 for $2 and 3 for $3. Toppings are $.50 each.
Staff Appreciation Lunch Bar
Sept. 21 from noon to 1 p.m.
Weyers Lounge, Howard Miller Student Center
Free lunch! The Staff Appreciation Club will be hosting a free lunch bar.
SpookT Panel Discussion
Sept. 22 at 1 p.m.
Stamm Lecture Hall, James Pedas Communication Center
Director Tony Reames; Producer Tymm Hoffman, film maker Vanessa Ionta Wright; cast members Haley Leary, Christen Sharice and Dana Schroyer; Thiel student Marcus Hernandez ’24 and alumna Samantha DiBucci ’23, who both worked on the production. Thiel College Assistant Professor of Communications and Chair of the Department of Media, Communication and Public Relations Matthew Humphrey, who also worked on the movie, will moderate the discussion.
The movie stars Eric Roberts and is directed by Tony Reames, the son of Mary Reames, who taught at the College in the Department of Education from 2006 to 2019.
The panel is free and open to the campus community and the public.
For more information, contact Matthew Humphrey.
SpookT Domestic Premiere
Sept. 22 at 2:30 p.m.
Bly Hall, Academic Center
SpookT uncovers the deeply hidden mysteries of Greenville, Pa. The movie premiered internationally in London, but makes its debut in the U.S. at Thiel. It stars Eric Roberts and is directed by Tony Reames, the son of Mary Reames, who taught at the College in the Department of Education from 2006 to 2019. Thiel student Marcus Hernandez ’24 and alumna Samantha DiBucci ’23 both worked on the production as did Thiel College Assistant Professor of Communications and Chair of the Department of Media, Communication and Public Relations Matthew Humphrey.
The premiere is free and open to the campus community and the public.
For more information, contact Matthew Humphrey.
Tennis: Waynesburg at Thiel
Sept. 22 at 4 p.m.
Thiel tennis courts
Thiel hosts Waynesburg in tennis.
For more information, contact Sports Information.
Cats on Mats Yoga
Sept. 23 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Pedas 120, James Pedas Communication Center
This will be a 75-minute class that will be fun for every level of yogi. Bring your mat or chair, some water, and be ready to cuddle with some kitties. Class will be 75 minutes, a 60 minute class with 15 extra minutes with the cats. There will be room for 15 people in each class time. All proceeds will directly benefit Greenville TNR and the work they do for our community stray cat population. We will also have an adoption table setup outside of the classroom with additional information on the cats.
Taylor Swift Bingo presented by Alpha Xi Delta sorority
Sept. 23 at 7 p.m.
Bly Hall, Academic Center
Alpha Xi Delta sorority invites campus for Taylor Swift bingo. Play to win prizes themed around all the albums.
Communion Service
Sept. 24 at 10 a.m.
David Johnson Memorial Chapel
Pastor Brian Riddle ’07 leads a Sunday service with communion at the Chapel.
For more information, contact Pastor Riddle at ext. 2130.
QPR Suicide Prevention Training
Sept. 25 at 1 p.m.
Bly Hall, Academic Center
QPR (Question, Persuade, and Refer) - Suicide Prevention Training. All members of the campus community are invited to learn the warning signs of suicide and how to intervene if you believe someone may be at risk.
Career Tabling: Butler VA
Sept. 26 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Howard Miller Student Center hallway
Students, faculty and staff can meet and greet a representative from the Butler VA to learn about open job and internship opportunities.
For more information, contact Liza Schaef at ext. 2063.
Employee Headshots
Sept. 26 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Rudisill Room, Howard Miller Student Center
New employee headshots will be taken from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 26 in the Rudisill Room of the Howard Miller Student Center.
New employees should make arrangements to attend this sitting. No reservations are necessary. Photos will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis.
Any employee wishing to update their photo for the web directory can also have retakes done that day.
Nursing Club meeting
Sept. 26 at noon
Pedas 120, James Pedas Communication Center
Weekly nursing club meeting.
Tennis: Allegheny at Thiel
Sept. 26 at 4 p.m.
Thiel tennis courts
Thiel hosts Allegheny College in tennis.
For more information, contact Sports Information.
Women’s Soccer: Franciscan University at Thiel
Sept. 26 at 5 p.m.
Alumni Stadium at Stoeber Field
Thiel hosts Franciscan University in women’s soccer.
For more information, contact Sports Information.
Men’s Soccer: Franciscan University at Thiel
Sept. 26 at 7:30 p.m.
Alumni Stadium at Stoeber Field
Thiel hosts Franciscan University in men’s soccer.
For more information, contact Sports Information.
Ask an Expert - Open Enrollment
Sept. 21 at 6:30 pm
Anderson Fellowship Hall at The Heritage, 339 East Jamestown Road, Greenville, Pa.
Mike Johnson, Senior Benefit Consultant at Davevic Benefit Consultants, Inc. and Debbie Yoos, Insurance Specialist at St. Paul's Senior Living Community will discuss open enrollment.
Seating is limited. Reservations are required.
Please RSVP by completing this form or call Vicki at 724-589-4667 Option 7.
Comedian Cody Woods
Sept. 21 at 7 p.m.
Padrone’s Pizza, 140 Main Street
Cody Woods has appeared on Hulu, Season 3 of Comedy Central’s Hart of the City, The Comedy Shaq Network, as well as the Emmy-nominated show “Mind Field.”
SpookT Celebration at the Gibson House
Sept. 22 at 7 p.m.
The Gibson House, Jamestown, Pa.
As part of the SpookTacular movie premiere weekend, come visit the Gibson House.
NOTE: There is a charge of $30 for this event. This is a fundraiser for the Friends of the Manor
Charitable Trust Tickets are available at friendsofthemanor.org
Meet Me on Main Street
Sept. 23 from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Main Street, Greenville, Pa.
A downtown experience with raffles, give-aways, activities, prizes, crafts, and samples!
Greenville High School Class of 1973 Reunion
Lutheran Heritage Room, Howard Miller Student Center
Sept. 23 from 5-11 p.m.
Private event for Greenville High School alumni.
SpookT Movie Premiere
Sept. 23 at 7 p.m.
Reynolds Drive-In Theatre, Transfer, Pa.
SpookT uncovers the deeply hidden mysteries of Greenville, Pa. The movie premiered internationally in London, but makes its debut in the U.S. at Thiel. It stars Eric Roberts and is directed by Tony Reames, the son of Mary Reames, who taught at the College in the Department of Education from 2006 to 2019. Thiel student Marcus Hernandez ’24 and alumna Samantha DiBucci ’23 both worked on the production as did Thiel College Assistant Professor of Communications and Chair of the Department of Media, Communication and Public Relations Matthew Humphrey.
Tomcat Tributes
Tomcat Tributes recognize the teamwork Thiel College employees exhibit each day. Employees can nominate co-workers for recognition in four categories (Random Act of Kindness, Going the Extra Mile, Had a Great Idea, Just Because).
Publishing Schedule
T-Notes is published every week during the academic year. It arrives Wednesday afternoons. The next edition will be out Sept. 27. Send your event or news to tnotes@thiel.edu by noon Monday, Sept. 25 to be published in that week’s edition.
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