Thiel Happenings

Thiel MBA students present strategies and prepare for healthcare leadership lecture

Thiel College’s Master of Business Administration students recently showcased their marketing expertise by presenting innovative strategies to the Primary Health Network Charitable Foundation. As part of their Foundations of Marketing course, the students met with PHNCF’s head of marketing on February 27 in the Haer Family Science and Arts Connector.

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Thiel College business students recognized at annual honors and awards ceremony

The Arthur McGonigal Department of Business Administration and Accounting at Thiel College held its annual honors and awards ceremony on April 2, in conjunction with the Ruth A. Miller Senior Business Seminar.

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Cydney Wierzbowski named Thiel Team Student of the Month for March

Thiel College has named Cydney Wierzbowski ’25, of Derry, Pa., as the Thiel Team Student of the Month for March.

+ Read the full story in the newsroom

Vote Thiel College for Best of the Best

The Best of the Best voting is live here and continues through April 11.

• Vote early and often online.

The link above is for the local section and then you have to scroll down and find our category, Colleges and Universities.

Faculty & staff: Remind students to fill out the FAFSA

Campus Wellness & Benefit Fair is April 10

The Human Resources team and the campus Wellness Center are organizing the annual Wellness & Benefit Fair for April 10 in the Lutheran Heritage Room of the Howard Miller Student Center.

The fair is open to faculty and staff members and students, and includes vendors, benefit providers and campus groups.

Anyone interested in hosting a table should contact should contact Diana Mazur at ext. 2004.

In the past, departments have generously donated some incredible baskets, and organizers are hoping the campus community will again contribute gift baskets. 

At the end of the fair, names will be drawn to see who wins the baskets and prizes provided by vendors, providers and groups. 

Any group/department interested in providing a prize basket, should contact Mazur by March 17.

Baskets should be delivered to the Human Resources Office before 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 8.

The department voted by employees to have had the best basket will win a special prize.

Anyone interested in participating should go to http://www.redcrossblood.org/And then zip code Thiel or 16125 to find the Thiel College blood drive.

TLC seeks nominations for Fall 2025 PLL staff

The TLC is looking to recruit strong student employees for our Fall 2025 PLL staff! We depend upon the Thiel community to recommend the students who will be our next peer tutors, SI/PASS leaders, and Writing Lab consultants. The TLC is seeking candidates who are model students, have earned an A or B in the courses they will support, and who work well with their peers. 

The nomination form is quick and easy (about 30 seconds).

• Fill out an online recommendation form.

• Refer a student to the TLC.

Thiel Choir flower fundraiser

Help support the Thiel Choir's fundraising efforts as they prepare for their Austria/Switzerland tour in March 2026. Click the link to check out the catalogue. At check out, you will have the option to specify a "seller" who will get credit for the sale. If none specified, the funds raised will go into the general choir trip fund. If you provide your home address, the products will be shipped directly to you; otherwise, they will be delivered to the college.

• Browse the online catalog.

Ally to Accomplice program begins April 14

The first session of the "Ally to Accomplice" Micro-Credential course to build on DEIB competency is at 3 p.m. April 14 at a location to be determined.

This will be an four-part series, consisting of one-hour meetings where we will review and discuss important, current topics in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging. Upon completion of this program, participants will receive a micro-credential certification.

Refreshments will be provided.

• Register online

For more information, contact Associate Dean for Academic Success, Professor of Sociology Jared Hanneman, Ph.D. at ext. 2225.

Student News

Lambda Sigma inducts new members

Twenty-two new members of the Rho chapter of Lambda Sigma Society at Thiel College were inducted on Tuesday, April 1. Lambda Sigma Society is the national honor society for second-year students.

Inductees: Maven Allen ’28, Emily Bone ’27 (Social Media Chair), Hannah Brady ’28 (Secretary), Mahalia Campbell ’28, Alivia Fallon ’28, Lillian Groover ’28 (Fundraising Chair), Jacob Hoffman ’28 (Parliamentarian and SGA Rep), Lillian Long ’27, Jemaira Lynch ’27 (President), Jade Mazzoni ’27, Sophia McGarvey ’28, Bryanna Mong ’28 (Treasurer), Ellie Moore-Swogger ’28, Alaina Olson ’28, Sonya Petersen ’28 (Co-Ritualist), Madison Rodgers ’28 (Service Chair), Summer Stitt ’28, Ella Tautin ’27, Annabell Urquhart ’28 (VP), Laura Wallace ’28, Madison Werner ’27, Emma Yurick ’27 (Co-Ritualist).

Professor of Environmental Science, Department Chair, Associate Director of the Dietrich Honors Institute Anna Reinsel, Ph.D. ’06 and campus archivist John Hauser ’71 H’20 serve as advisors.

Scarpitti shares his Thiel story with the senior seminar students

Joe Scarpitti ’80 was the featured speaker at the April 2 Ruth A. Miller Senior Business Seminar, which also included the induction ceremony for Chi Eta Sigma, the Arthur McGonigal Department of Business Administration & Accounting honorary society. Scarpitti is a senior vice president at the American Funds and a member of the Thiel College Board of Trustees.

“Tonight was a very special occasion, as it was Chi Eta Sigma induction ceremony. The whole class was invited to dinner tonight, and we had multiple dinner guests (including Dr. Ruth Miller) as well as all of the business department faculty present. Many of us students were inducted into the Chi Eta Sigma, the business department honorary society. There were also departmental awards given to three very deserving students. Overall, it was an amazing night, and a very personally impactful one.” Kelly Oros ’26

“Joe Scarpitti, a 1980 Thiel College graduate, shared his inspiring journey and life lessons during his speech to the Senior Seminar class. As the Senior Vice President of American Funds with over 30 years of experience in the company, Joe's insights into success and personal growth were both practical and motivating.” Vincent Laribee ’25

“Scarpitti, the Senior VP at American Funds, also serves on Thiel College’s Board of Trustees and was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame as a former basketball point guard. He began his speech by reminiscing about his drive back to Thiel and the lasting memories he made during his college years. Interestingly, he is part of the same crew that Professor Witosky always speaks so fondly of.” Josie Gadsby ’26

“With an impressive career continuing over four decades in the financial services industry, he currently serves as Senior Vice President at Capital Group’s American Funds. His extensive experience includes roles at McDonald & Company Securities and adjunct teaching positions at both Thiel College and the University of Mount Union. A dedicated former student-athlete, Scarpitti earned four varsity letters in basketball, served as team captain, and was inducted into Thiel’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2022.” Sam Denu ’26

“It is so great to be back at Thiel.’ These were the words first spoken by the evening's guest speaker, Joe Scarpitti, who returned to his alma mater to share insights to the next generation of Tomcats. Scarpitti shared that the math program and his love of basketball were initially the only things that intrigued him to attend Thiel. However, he stayed at the school for the most unexpected reasons—the friendships and connections made.” Anna Kavulla ’27

“Like a true business professional, he gave us an agenda for his presentation including focus points of the lifelong journey, a life compass, and the eighth wonder of the world.” Ava Kavulla ’25

“Mr. Scarpitti grew up in a large family of 8 children and grew up in a small town called Sebring, OH. Mr. Scarpitti urged us that he didn’t come from money; he was a first-generation college student, which in turn instilled independence, drive, and a sense of urgency towards his goals and aspirations.” Kaitlyn Herrmann ’26

“After graduation he found he didn’t like the job he was at, so he quit and decided to go for his MBA. Joe explained how he was homeless for ten days sleeping in his car to do this. Even though it seemed like the answer was no and he couldn’t do it, Joe pushed through. Joe tells his children, ‘I don’t care if you fall seven times just promise me you will get up eight.” Jacob Castona ’25

“The heart of his presentation centered around what he called the "Life Resume"—a lifelong journey shaped by a liberal arts education.” Josie Gadsby ’26

“A strong advocate for liberal arts education, Mr. Scarpitti explained why he believes it’s superior to any other degree. In his view, those with a liberal arts background are better equipped to listen, learn, communicate, work with and serve others, and understand the world more deeply.” Bryce Stubert ’25

“Mr. Scarpitti said he loves interviewing people from liberal art schools like Thiel for several reasons. Those reasons are they listen and learn, read and understand, talk to anyone, solve problems and puzzles, understand how to get things done, empower and nurture people around them, and always stay curious.” Zach Johns ’25

“The heart of his message came through in what he called the 8th Wonder of the World — an acronym formed from eight key words: Plan/Prepare, Read, Attitude, Yes, Enthusiasm, Respect. Together, which created the acronym PRAYER, he believes this holds the secret to success and fulfillment.” Bryce Stubert ’25

“He encouraged us to find our life compass and stick to our guiding principles. He said his life compass is prayer, but we each should know or find and develop our own compass.” Kelly Oros ’26

“I also really liked that he included prayer and talked a little bit about religion because I have been raised to always pray and always hold your religion close and never forget it. I feel that it is also a key to success so seeing that he holds prayer and religion close to him and seeing how he has been able to make his career and life a huge success makes me want to hold the same things close and become successful but never forget those things.” Jordan Castona ’25

“Scarpitti also emphasized the power of attitude, urging us to ‘start tomorrow on offense. He reminded us that we were not born to fail and that a positive outlook can take us far. He spoke of Dr. Miller’s infectious enthusiasm, describing him as someone who had the electricity of life—able to engage anyone with energy and passion.” Josie Gadsby ’26

“He spoke about life as a journey and to always wake up every day on offensive. What Mr. Scarpitti was saying by wake up on the offensive is go and attack the day wake up with a smile and have a positive outlook. Mr. Scarpitti spoke with joy and excitement and everyone in the room could tell that he takes his own advice and doesn’t waste a single day.” Zach Johns ’25

“To close, Mr. Scarpitti played the song “Humble & Kind,” encouraging everyone to listen closely to the lyrics. It was a touching and visually moving way to end his talk.” Bryce Stubert ’25

“The presentation ended with a music video that reminded everyone to be humble and kind in all they do, a core principle that is oftentimes forgotten. This message was not only evident throughout Scarpitti's speech but also in the shared moments of the evening. From engaging conversations over dinner with fellow students and special guests Ruth A. Miller and Professor Oakes to the celebration of the academic success of new inductees, humbleness and kindness were evident. However, this evening reflected a theme that has been central to my entire time at Thiel College which highlights the kind nature of the college community.” Anna Kavulla ’27

“Scarpitti encouraged students to build a life resume filled with meaningful relationships and experiences, to embrace failures as part of growth, and to lead with humility, curiosity, and gratitude. His message inspired attendees to pursue their dreams boldly and with purpose, reminding them that success is built not only on preparation but also on passion and perseverance.” Shinyoung Kim ’25

“Joe’s speech was a powerful reminder of the values that have guided him throughout his career—listening, learning, resilience, and the importance of empowering others. His journey serves as a testament to how hard work, a passion for learning, and a positive attitude can create lasting success. By focusing on these core principles, Joe Scarpitti has not only built a successful career but has also become a source of inspiration to others, urging them to embrace challenges and never settle for anything less than possible.” Vincent Laribee ’25

“The first message was about how life is a long journey, not a sprint or a race. Mr. Scarpitti emphasized that our lives should be viewed as an ongoing path—one in which we must listen and learn, read and understand, and constantly strive to grow. The importance of being a lifelong learner stood out to me. He encouraged us to remain curious, open, and humble as we move through each stage of life. This perspective reminded me that growth is not defined by milestones alone, but by the effort we invest in becoming better each day.” Ji Hyeon Moon ’25

“He is a very passionate and energetic man, full of enthusiasm and life. I particularly liked how he wove stories and parables into his speech, as well as the faith-based segments of his speech. Thank you, Joe Scarpitti! You are a huge inspiration!” Ethan Tabaka ’26

“His presentation made a definite impact on me, and I will always remember his love of life and inspiring attitude.” Kelly Oros ’26

“Overall, the class was great and Joe was a very good speaker. I learned a lot from his presentation and he was very lifting.” Derrik Zappa ’26

“The speaker, Joe Scarpitti, was absolutely amazing, and possibly the most inspiring speaker we have had yet.” Kelly Oros ’26

Lessons Learned

• “Build a life resume, not just a career resume.” Shinyoung Kim ’25
• “Never settle.” Jordan Castona ’25
• “You weren’t born to fail.” Zach Johns ’25
• “Don’t just be yourself — be your best self.” Anna Kavulla ’27
• “Follow your passion (bliss) to lead a successful life.” Cora Post ’25
• “Never accept anything but possible.” Derrik Zappa ’26
• “Incorporate more ‘yes’ into your life.” Kaitlyn Herrmann ’26
• “Always stay curious.” Anna Kavulla ’27
• “Embracing failure as a steppingstone to success is crucial.” Sam Denu ’26
• “Make every day your masterpiece.” Cora Post ’25
• “Always think about what we can offer to others when we meet them—not just what we can gain.” Ji Hyeon Moon ’25
• “Empower and nurture those around you.” Vincent Laribee ’25
• “The world does not owe you anything; motivate yourself toward your goals.” Kaitlynn Wolffe ’25
• “Don’t focus on what the world owes you, focus on what you owe the world.” Kelly Oros ’26
• “The beautiful thing about liberal arts education is that it connects people.” Lexi Brown ’26
• Never stop learning and reading. Your education does not stop upon graduation, but it only begins!” Ava Kavulla ’25
• “The minute you quit learning, you die; never stop trying new things!” Ethan Tabaka ’26
• “Building a meaningful life requires relationships, service, and a willingness to learn and grow.” Seungyeon Hung ’25
• “Prayer is important in life; it is the eighth wonder of the world.” Jacob Castona ’25
• “Invest now so you can be more financially stable later because you have TIME.” Natalie Pape ’26
• “Use time as your asset.” Kaitlyn Herrmann ’26
• “Always stay humble and kind.” Natalie Pape ’26

Dinner “Dishing”

• “Dinner was my favorite part of the evening by far, and although the food was wonderful, that wasn’t what made dinner; the conversations did. I sat between Professor Robyn Yahner and our speaker, Joe Scarpitti. Throughout the evening, I was amazed to hear the two of them banter back and forth about their careers in the financial services field as well as their experiences in teaching the investments course at Thiel. Mr. Scarpitti also spoke to us about many of his interesting stories at Thiel and told us several stories about the ‘legend’ of Thiel College, Dr. Olson.” Kaitlyn Herrmann ’26
• “I was delighted to see that I was sat with Dr. Olson, Professor Yahner, and Mr. Scarpitti. I have heard so much about ‘Doc O,’ and was excited to finally get to meet him. Our meal was delightful and the conversations at our table made it that much better.” Natalie Pape ’26
• “I also had the pleasure of having Prof. John Gomolchak at my table. It is always great when he is around because he has many great stories to tell. I enjoy his classes because he always incorporates these stories into the lessons he teaches. Throughout dinner, he entertained our table with his excellent stories.” Derrik Zappa ’26

Regalia available for May graduates

The Campus Store has caps, gowns and regalia available for purchase. Students can stop by weekdays between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

• Bachelor's degree Gown, cap and year-dated tassel: $38/set
• MBA Gown, cap, year-dated tassel: $43 plus hood $35: total $78/set

The Learning Commons is partnering with the Physician Assistant Studies program to build a tutoring program for PA students.

Interested PA students are encouraged to apply.

• Apply online.
  

• Schedule an appointment now.