The Misericordia University American Medical Student Association Club is presenting its annual Pre-Medical Conference with the theme, The Stigma of "Addiction,'' on Saturday, March 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Huntzinger and Alden Rooms 218-219 of Sandy and Marlene Insalaco Hall. The program is free, and open to the public.

Professionals in health care and rehabilitation will provide valuable insights into the stigma of addiction during their presentations. Presenters include: Brenda L. Hage, Ph.D., D.N.P, C.R.N.P., professor and chair of the Department of Nursing at Misericordia University; Joseph Kane, L.S.W., clinical administrator, Clearbrook Treatment Centers, Laurel Run; Sharon Poray, M.B.A., family program director, Clearbrook Treatment Centers, Lauren Run; Darlene Mensinger, B.S.N., R.N.C.-N.I.C., clinical nurse educator, Geisinger Danville, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and William Poray, L.C.S.W., C.A.A.D.C., director of outpatient services, Geisinger-Marworth Treatment Center.

The conference is geared toward high school and college students who are interested in a career in health care, and health care professionals and members of the public who are interested in the topics being discussed. To register for the event, please contact Rita Molino, College of Arts and Sciences, at (570) 674-8184 or at rmolino@misericordia.edu by March 10. Reservations are requested since seating is limited.

Dr. Hage, a family nurse practitioner with clinical expertise in gerontology, rehabilitation and family practice, will make the presentation, "Dispensation of Narcotics from a Medical Standpoint.'' In 2015, she received the Daily Point of Light Award from the Points of Light Foundation and the Corporation for National and Community Service for her volunteer efforts at The Hope Center in Luzerne, where she volunteers as the associate medical director and family nurse practitioner. She is also a member of the Pennsylvania Council on Aging, and was selected for the 2015-16 Duke-Johnson & Johnson Nurse Leadership Program.

The director of outpatient services for the past 15 years at Geisinger-Marworth, Mr. Poray will discuss the "Correlation Between Trauma and Addiction." He has worked in the areas of chemical addictions – alcoholism and drug addiction – and process addictions, such as cyber-addiction, compulsive gambling and sexual addiction.

He is trained in eye movement desensitization reprocessing, clinical hypnosis, and developmental needs meeting strategy. During his career, he has developed services within an inpatient chemical dependency setting and presented at conference and workshops on topics related to addiction and co-occurring disorders.

Mensinger, a neonatal ICU nurse for 30 years at Geisinger, will make the presentation, "Addiction and Its Effects on the Fetus and Newborn.'' During her nursing career, she has worked in NICU care management, and as a family care specialist, professional development specialist, staff nurse, charge nurse, preceptor, and in her present role as clinical nurse educator.

The family program director at Clearbrook for 25 years, Mrs. Poray will present, "Addiction and the Family Dynamics.'' At Clearbrook, she coordinates family involvement and runs a three-day weekend educational program for families of patients.

In addition, Kane, who works with the Lackawanna County District Attorney's Office to bring the program, "Heroin Hits Home,'' to teenagers in the school system, will make the presentation, "Addiction: The Chronic, Relapsing, Complex Brain Disease.'' He studied psychology at the Pennsylvania State University and worked in the mental health field from 2005-10. In 2010, he transitioned to the drug and alcohol field, and earned his degree in social work.

The Misericordia University American Medical Student Association Club inspires leadership, service and passion for future careers in health care. The annual student-run conference serves to encourage students to think about how a future career in health care is an embodiment of service.

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The Department of Mass Communications and Design at Misericordia University is introducing a specialization in sport communication to the Bachelor of Arts degree program beginning with the fall semester.

Sport communication is a growing segment within the communications field, as it involves the robust integration of multiple media products and platforms. Students who select the new specialization will gain instruction and experience in journalism, broadcasting, marketing, public relations, graphic design and electronic and social media in the context of sport media.

Since the Department of Mass Communications and Design is in the College of Business at Misericordia University, it provides additional opportunities for interdisciplinary instruction. In the specialization, students will be required to take four new courses – sport communication in the Department of Mass Communications and Design, sport management and sports marketing in the Department of Sport Management, and principles of marketing in the Department of Business.

The specialized courses will provide students with ample sports media experience and opportunities to build robust portfolios prior to their mandated off-campus internship during their senior year. Students will create sports media at The Highlander student newspaper, MCN 87 student television station, Cougar student radio station, Service by Design, a student-run marketing and design firm, and with the university's Sports Information Office.

During their education, students will conduct analyses of organizations and audiences, write feature stories and press releases, create and disseminate social media content, and design and implement integrated media campaigns.

"Faculty members in the Department of Mass Communications and Design strive to provide students with specialized instruction to best prepare them for facets of media where employment demand is strong and growing,'' said Melissa Sgroi, Ed.D., chair of the Department of Mass Communications and Design. "The specialization's interdisciplinary approach also offers students instruction in sport management and business from our well-respected colleagues.''

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment to grow 6 percent from 2014-24 in entertainment and sports occupations, as strong consumer demand for films, television shows and sports drives the industry. The specialization in sport communication at Misericordia University also will make students more marketable as they will be prepared to work in all facets of the media industry, including sports advertising, promotions and marketing – careers fields that are projected to grow by 9 percent during the same period.

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The National Stuttering Association: Northeast Pennsylvania Chapter at Misericordia University is holding its 4^th annual "Don't Tell Me to Slow Down'' 5K run/walk on Sunday, April 2 to raise awareness about stuttering and in support of the National Stuttering Association. The event begins at 10 a.m., with registration taking place from 8:45-9:45 a.m. at the John and Mary Metz Field House.

The fee for participants who pre-register before March 20 is $20 for adults, $15 for children under 12, and $15 for Misericordia University students. After March 20, the fee is $25 for adults, $20 for children under 12, and $20 for Misericordia students. To register online, please log on to https://donttellmetoslowdown5k.itsyourrace.com/register. Every participant receives an event T-shirt.

Virtual runners and walkers also can participate by registering on the event's website. The website also accepts donations from people who would like to support the cause, but do not want to or have the time to run or walk the day of the event.

The walk/run is organized by the National Stuttering Association: Northeast Pennsylvania Chapter at Misericordia University, the Misericordia University National Student Speech-Language Hearing Association, and Students Spreading Disabilities Awareness.

The annual event's goal is to increase stuttering awareness and raise funds for the National Stuttering Association and the stuttering support group. The organizations use the funds to produce national stuttering newsletters, brochures, booklets, and online resources. The funding also sustains the National Stuttering Association's toll-free hotline (800-WE STUTTER), chapters, workshops, conferences, research, advocacy, and continuing education related to stuttering.

The local and national chapters are dedicated to bringing hope and empowerment to children and adults who stutter, as well as their families through support, education, advocacy and research.

In 2012, Misericordia University established the first National Stuttering Association-recognized stuttering support group in northeastern Pennsylvania. The support group holds meetings on the first Sunday of the month from 6-7:30 p.m. in room 212 of John J. Passan Hall, 100 Lake St., Dallas Borough. The meetings are free, and open to people of all ages.

The support group provides a safe and friendly atmosphere for people who stutter and those affected by stuttering. At the meetings, people are able to meet others who stutter, share experiences, practice their speaking skills, and work on moving forward in their lives with dignity and respect. For more information, please log on to the group's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NEPAstutters or e-mail the group at stutteringsupport@misericordia.edu.

For more information about the speech-language pathology program at Misericordia University, please call (570) 674-6400 or log on to www.misericordia.edu/slp.

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The National Stuttering Association: Northeast Pennsylvania Chapter at Misericordia University is holding its 4^th annual 'Don't Tell Me to Slow Down' 5K run/walk on Sunday, April 2 to raise awareness about stuttering and in support of the National Stuttering Association. Race coordinators, first row from left, are Riley McKee, Southampton, Pa.; Emily Gurtizen, West Chester, Pa., and Kyle Pelkey, Watertown, Conn., co-leader; second row, Shayne Postiglione, Washingtonville, N.Y., and Alexis Stoffel of Mullica Hill, N.J.; third row, Lindsey Jordan, Scranton, Pa.; Alexandra Irr, Bethlehem, Pa., co-leader, and Kelsey O'Donnell, Clarks Summit, Pa.

The Misericordia University Alumni Association is hosting the Easter Bunny for the annual Easter Egg Hunt and Brunch on Saturday, April 8 in Sandy and Marlene Insalaco Hall. The brunch has two seatings available: 11-11 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Children and their families will have an opportunity to meet the Easter Bunny, have brunch, and participate in an egg hunt on the front lawn of the Banks Student Life Center. A festive brunch includes scrambled eggs, French toast, sausage, home fries, hot dogs, chicken fingers, pastries and beverages. A professional photographer will be available to take pictures. Individual photos and photo packages also are available for purchase. Event coordinator is Lailani Augustine, alumni events coordinator.

Tickets are $12 for adults; $6 for children from 5-12 years of ag,; and free to children under 5. The first seating is 10 to 11 a.m., and the second is from 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Children participating in the egg hunt must be in place by 11 a.m., as the event begins on time, rain or shine. Since space is limited, reservations are required for the event. They can be made online at http://cougarconnect.misericordia.edu/bunny or by calling the Misericordia Alumni Box Office at (570) 674-6764.

With the theme, "Saving the World One Cure at a Time," the Misericordia University Colleges Against Cancer Chapter has scheduled the seventh annual Relay for Life on campus April 21-22. The overnight event begins Friday, April 21 at 7 p.m. in the Anderson Sports and Health Center and concludes at 3 a.m. Saturday, April 22. All the money raised benefits the American Cancer Society.

In the past six years, Misericordia students have helped to raise about $150,000 for the American Cancer Society through campus Relay for Life events. The student organization raised $46,500 in 2016, with more than 720 participants and 32 cancer survivors in attendance. The goal of $50,000 has been set for 2017.

Misericordia University Colleges Against Cancer Chapter officers are Nicole Sadler, Florence, New Jersey, event lead; Zachary Moody, Clarence, Bring the People co-chair; Kailee Crockett, Smithtown, New York, Build the Fun co-chair; and Olivia Sumeriski, Toms River, New Jersey, Fund the Mission co-chair. Elizabeth Pedro, technical administrator for the Department of Information Technology at Misericordia University, is the chapter's staff advisor.

Members of the regional community have a number of ways to take part in the program. People can participate individually or form teams to walk during Relay for Life. There is a $10 commitment fee per team member, and teams can register online at www.relayforlife.org/pamisericordia. The fee increases to $20 on the day of the event. Early registration will occur from 3:30-5:30 p.m. for participants who want to avoid long lines at the door.

The Misericordia University Relay or Life will feature a survivor's lap and a caregiver's lap immediately following the opening ceremonies. Students will also sell Relay for Life luminaria bags at the event for the luminaria ceremony from 10-11 p.m. on Friday. The lighted bags will be placed throughout the bleachers and around the indoor track in the gymnasium to pay tribute to loved ones who are battling or have lost their battle to cancer.

Official American Cancer Society Relay for Life T-shirts are not for sale, but anyone who raises $100 or more becomes a member of the Hope Club and receives a free event T-shirt. To receive the T-shirt prior to the event, participants must raise $100 by March 3 and have the total recorded on the event website www.relayforlife.org/pamisericordia. Participants who raise $100 after March 3 will have a free event T-shirt mailed to them after the event.

Program sponsorships ranging from $100 to $3,000 also are available by contacting Sumeriski at sumeriso@misericordia.edu. For additional information, please contact Sadler, Relay for Life event lead, at nsadler@misericordia.edu or American Cancer Society staff partner Cindy Delaney at cindy.delaney@cancer.org.

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The Misericordia University Colleges Against Cancer Chapter has scheduled the seventh annual Relay for Life for April 21-22 on campus. Organizers, from left, include students Zachary Moody, Clarence, Pa., Bring the People co-chair, and Nicole Sadler, Florence, N.J., event lead; Cindy Delaney, staff partner, American Cancer Society; Elizabeth Pedro, staff advisor to the chapter and technical administrator for the Department of Information Technology, Misericordia University; and students Kailee Crockett, Smithtown, N.Y., Build the Fun co-chair, and Olivia Sumeriski, Toms River, N.J., Fund the Mission co-chair.

The Friends of the Mary Kintz Bevevino Library at Misericordia University are hosting marketing executive Lisa Caputo for a fireside chat on Thursday, April 6 at 6 p.m. in the Catherine Evans McGowan Room of the library. The program is free, and open to the public.

Caputo served as press secretary to First Lady Hillary Clinton and deputy assistant to President Bill Clinton through his first term in office. She also was as an advisor to Mrs. Clinton in her candidacies for office.

Caputo currently holds the post of executive vice president and chief marketing and communications officer for The Travelers Companies, Inc., where she leads the company's marketing, research, corporate communications, creative services and customer experience functions. She is a member of the company's Management Committee, Operating Committee, and serves on the Travelers Foundation Board.

The Shavertown native will discuss her career in the private sector of corporate America, as well as her role at the White House and relationship with Hillary Clinton. Nationally recognized as a business executive and political insider, she has frequently served as a contributor to CNBC, CNN, MSNBC, and other national news organizations.

Caputo's extensive business experience includes having served as executive vice president of Global Marketing and Corporate Affairs for Citigroup, where she oversaw more than $2 billion in global media spending, and managed a company-wide initiative on the corporate brand, which resulted in the re-branding of the company from Citigroup to Citi. She was the founder, chairperson and CEO of Citi's Women & Co., a personal finance source for women, and co-head of Citi's Women's Initiative.

Prior to joining Citigroup, she held positions as vice president of Global Communications and Synergy for Disney Publishing Worldwide, and vice president of Corporate Communications for the CBS Corp.

The daughter of Rosemary and the Honorable A. Richard Caputo, Senior Judge of the United States District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, Caputo graduated magna cum laude from Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, where she had a double concentration in political science and French. She also holds a master's degree in journalism from Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois.

A stellar member of the lacrosse team while at Brown, Caputo also is credited with helping the Brown field hockey team achieve its first Ivy League Championship in 1984. In recognition of her athletic and professional accomplishments, Caputo was the recipient of the NCAA Silver Anniversary Award in 2011, an honor given by the NCAA to a select group of six individuals each year on the 25th anniversary of the end of their intercollegiate athletics career. Fellow recipients that year included football and baseball all-star Bo Jackson; Joe Girardi, manager of the New York Yankees; and professional golfer Scott Verplank, whose foundation provides scholarships for students with Type 1 Diabetes.

The College of Arts and Sciences at Misericordia University is hosting three special presentations in honor of National Women's History Month in March. Each event is open free to the public.

The Women's Issues Forum on Thursday, March 23 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in Huntzinger Room 218 of Sandy and Marlene Insalaco Hall will focus on issues about gender and the role of women in the 21^st century. Guest speakers include Marnie Hiester, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Psychology; Rebecca Steinberger, Ph.D., professor of English; Jennifer M. Black, Ph.D., assistant professor of history and government, and Amanda Caleb, Ph.D., associate professor of English and director of the Bachelor of Arts to Master of Arts program.

Members of the community and students can participate in a women's History Month poetry reading on Friday, March 24 in the Henry Student Lounge from 2:30-4 p.m. Guests can read poems by their favorite female authors, or find compositions in available texts at the program.

On Thursday, March 28, Dr. Caleb will make the presentation, "Imbecile in Mind, Habits, and Pursuits: The Gyno-Neuro Control of Women in the 19^th Century,'' at 7 p.m. in the Catherine Evans McGowan Room of the Mary Kintz Bevevino Library. In the presentation, Dr. Caleb will discuss gynecology and neuroscience in the 19^th century, and its relationship to the women's movement and the push for women's education.

Misericordia University student Michael Dubinski of Hanover Township was one of six undergraduates chosen to make a paper presentation at the Phi Sigma Tau Philosophy Conference that was held at the University of Scranton.

A double major in philosophy, and government, law and national security, the junior considered the Marxian problem of alienated labor in his presentation, "Rethinking Human Labor in the 21^st Century.'' He argued that humans might be able to re-imagine unalienated labor through an understanding of the activity of labor as it has traditionally been organized in the family.

"Today, under global capitalism, people find themselves having to sell their labor to others, typically strangers, for a wage in order to obtain the necessities of life,'' Dubinski, the son of Joseph and Darlene Dubinski, wrote in his research paper. "For Marx, this creates a situation wherein we may find it difficult to identify with the processes and products of our labor – we feel alienated from ourselves, others, and the world.''

In his presentation, Dubinski argued that each job – no matter how undesirable – is instrumental in ensuring the survival and flourishing of the local community and the human community at-large. He also suggested that leisure is necessary for flourishing of the human community, as it is a realm in which human beings pursue excellence in recreation, education, the arts, and politics.

During the question-and-answer session that followed his presentation, Jay Bernstein, Ph.D., a distinguished professor of philosophy at the New School for Social Research, New York, New York, asked Dubinski to define family and expand upon what it means to operate in a large-scale human family. At the conclusion, participants agreed that the discussion of family can serve as a starting point to re-envisioning meaningful labor.

Phi Sigma Tau is an international honor society for philosophers.

Rev. James Calderone, O.F.M., Ed.D., A.C.S.W., L.S.W. (inactive), professor emeritus of social work at Misericordia University, and Rodrigo "Popi'' Gereda have collaborated to write and illustrate their second book together. The sale of "Woman of Samaria: a Reflection on the Spiritual Journey'' benefit the Ruth Matthews Bourger Women with Children Program at Misericordia University.

Published by Cougar Press, the 74-page soft-cover book chronicles the story of the Samaritan woman at Jacob's Well and her chance encounter with Jesus that has been shared through the millennia. Noted as a story of conversion, or a "turning of the heart,'' "Woman of Samaria: a Reflection on the Spiritual Journey'' offers a brief reflection through poetry, commentary, and picture of this timeless tale.

"The authors of this reflection consider the woman of Samaria's walk to be one icon for the spiritual journey,'' Rev. Calderone and Mr. Gereda write in the preface of their book. "Many on the path may identify with the woman of Samaria's process of spiritual maturing. In our speculative interpretation, we understand 'conversion to be a shared experience which embraces the woman, Jesus, and all whom they encounter.''

Rev. Calderone and Mr. Gereda make the assumption in their writing that the hearts of people are touched and changed over a lifetime – and perhaps beyond – and the conversion that takes place is a growing experience, the essence of which is shared with others.

At Misericordia University, Rev. Calderone served as chair of the Department of Social Work, director of the Professional Studies Program, chair of Faculty Senate, and dean of the former College of Professional Studies and Social Sciences. During his tenure, he was awarded two of the three highest awards presented to faculty – the Judge Max and Tillie Rosenn Excellence in Teaching Award and the Pauly and Sidney Friedman Excellence in Service Award.

Mr. Gereda is the former facilitator for the Interfaith Resource Center for Peace and Justice. He is the chief mediation trainer for The Father James Doyle, C.S.C., Community Mediation Institute and is working toward his Masters in Divinity.

To order a copy of the book, please contact Rev. Calderone by calling him at (570) 674-6209 or e-mailing him at jcaldero@misericordia.edu. The book is $20.

This is the second book the authors have written and illustrated together to benefit the Bourger Women with Children Program. "Taking the Next Step: Poetry, Reflections, and Illustrations for the Journey'' was published in 2016. The sale raised $1,500. A matching grant enabled the authors to donate $3,000 to the program for single mothers and their children.

The Bourger Women with Children Program accommodates up to 16 mothers and 32 children and removes barriers to academic and professional achievement for single mothers, while introducing their children to the benefits of higher education. Established in 2000, the novel program provides housing to single women at the poverty level and up to two children each, so mothers can attend college and earn a bachelor's degree.

The program provides free housing, support services and scholarships for academically qualified, single mothers and their children at three homes owned by Misericordia University on Lake Street – Pauly House, Rasmussen House at Rosary Hall, and Moffat House. Since its inception, baccalaureate-degree graduates have established careers in nursing, education, communications, occupational therapy, social work, medical imaging, psychology, business administration, and speech-language pathology.

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The Department of Business at Misericordia University is collaborating with the Luzerne County District Attorney's Office, and Snyder & Clemente, Accountants & Consultants to present two programs outlining the importance of developing basic internal accounting controls for all-volunteer organizations in the community.

Misericordia University is hosting the program on Tuesday, March 21 from 6-8 p.m. in Huntzinger and Alden Trust rooms 218-219 of Sandy and Marlene Insalaco Hall. The program will be available again on Thursday, March 23 from 6-8 p.m. at the Hazleton Integration Project, 225 E. Fourth St., Hazleton. The programs are free and open to the public, and will include an opportunity for those attending to ask questions of the presenters. Light refreshments will be available.

Under the direction of Professor Fred Croop, Ed.D., M.B.A., the Department of Business at Misericordia University developed the Internal Controls and Federal Tax Exemption Basics for All-Volunteer Organizations Resource Manual in 2015. The manual is available via a free download online for all-volunteer organizations, such as volunteer fire departments, youth recreation leagues, parent teacher organizations, and more. The complete manual is available at www.Misericordia.edu/nonprofitcontrols.

"The occurrence of financial irregularities in volunteer organizations is unfortunate in many ways,'' Dr. Croop acknowledged. "An honest accounting mistake hits the nonprofit in the pocketbook, but embezzlement or fraud hurts the entity financially and in the eyes of the community. Either way, the organization and the people it serves suffer.''

The presentations will focus on nonprofit organizations that do not have employees, where it is more difficult to develop and implement standard internal controls to safeguard finances and assets.

Dr. Croop and representatives of the state Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) have been working to develop a Financial Management Guide for Volunteer Emergency Service Organizations. Soon, all-volunteer organizations will be required to follow the guide in order to be eligible for grant funding from DCED. Dr. Croop will review the status of the guide and answer questions.

An advocate for all-volunteer organizations, Luzerne County District Attorney Stefanie J. Salavantis will discuss the need for more effective financial management of nonprofits and the impact mismanagement has on the organizations and the people they serve.

John M. Nonnemacher, CPA, a principal with Snyder & Clemente, Accountants & Consultants, will show attendees how to enact effective internal controls for small volunteer nonprofit organizations. He will also review the annual federal and state filing requirements for such organizations to obtain and maintain their tax-exempt status.

All presenters will include real-world examples of how fraud has occurred in nonprofit organizations and how effective internal controls would have prevented such frauds. "The financial cost of not creating and enforcing internal controls when humans are entrusted with cash and other assets can mean the end of a much-needed service in the community,'' added Dr. Croop. "People are human and prone to unforeseen mistakes and temptation.''

For more information about the programs, please contact Dr. Croop at (570) 674-6327 or at fcroop@misericordia.edu.

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Please tune in to "Newsmakers" on Sunday March 12 as Misericordia University President Thomas J. Botzman, Ph.D., talks about the many opportunities available at Misericordia University for traditional and non-traditional students, and its importance to the region. The program will air on WBRE-TV 28 at 11:30 a.m. and on WYOU-TV 22 at 6:30 a.m.

The Misericordia University American Medical Student Association Club is presenting its annual Pre-Medical Conference with the theme, The Stigma of "Addiction,'' on Saturday, March 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Huntzinger and Alden Rooms 218-219 of Sandy and Marlene Insalaco Hall. The program is free, and open to the public.

Professionals in health care and rehabilitation will provide valuable insights into the stigma of addiction during their presentations. Presenters include: Brenda L. Hage, Ph.D., D.N.P, C.R.N.P., professor and chair of the Department of Nursing at Misericordia University; Joseph Kane, L.S.W., clinical administrator, Clearbrook Treatment Centers, Laurel Run; Sharon Poray, M.B.A., family program director, Clearbrook Treatment Centers, Lauren Run; Darlene Mensinger, B.S.N., R.N.C.-N.I.C., clinical nurse educator, Geisinger Danville, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and William Poray, L.C.S.W., C.A.A.D.C., director of outpatient services, Geisinger-Marworth Treatment Center.

The conference is geared toward high school and college students who are interested in a career in health care, and health care professionals and members of the public who are interested in the topics being discussed. To register for the event, please contact Rita Molino, College of Arts and Sciences, at (570) 674-8184 or at rmolino@misericordia.edu by March 10. Reservations are requested since seating is limited.

Dr. Hage, a family nurse practitioner with clinical expertise in gerontology, rehabilitation and family practice, will make the presentation, "Dispensation of Narcotics from a Medical Standpoint.'' In 2015, she received the Daily Point of Light Award from the Points of Light Foundation and the Corporation for National and Community Service for her volunteer efforts at The Hope Center in Luzerne, where she volunteers as the associate medical director and family nurse practitioner. She is also a member of the Pennsylvania Council on Aging, and was selected for the 2015-16 Duke-Johnson & Johnson Nurse Leadership Program.

The director of outpatient services for the past 15 years at Geisinger-Marworth, Mr. Poray will discuss the "Correlation Between Trauma and Addiction." He has worked in the areas of chemical addictions – alcoholism and drug addiction – and process addictions, such as cyber-addiction, compulsive gambling and sexual addiction.

He is trained in eye movement desensitization reprocessing, clinical hypnosis, and developmental needs meeting strategy. During his career, he has developed services within an inpatient chemical dependency setting and presented at conference and workshops on topics related to addiction and co-occurring disorders.

Mensinger, a neonatal ICU nurse for 30 years at Geisinger, will make the presentation, "Addiction and Its Effects on the Fetus and Newborn.'' During her nursing career, she has worked in NICU care management, and as a family care specialist, professional development specialist, staff nurse, charge nurse, preceptor, and in her present role as clinical nurse educator.

The family program director at Clearbrook for 25 years, Mrs. Poray will present, "Addiction and the Family Dynamics.'' At Clearbrook, she coordinates family involvement and runs a three-day weekend educational program for families of patients.

In addition, Kane, who works with the Lackawanna County District Attorney's Office to bring the program, "Heroin Hits Home,'' to teenagers in the school system, will make the presentation, "Addiction: The Chronic, Relapsing, Complex Brain Disease.'' He studied psychology at the Pennsylvania State University and worked in the mental health field from 2005-10. In 2010, he transitioned to the drug and alcohol field, and earned his degree in social work.

The Misericordia University American Medical Student Association Club inspires leadership, service and passion for future careers in health care. The annual student-run conference serves to encourage students to think about how a future career in health care is an embodiment of service.

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The free presentation, "The Triumph of the Human Spirit, from Auschwitz to Forgiveness'' by Holocaust survivor, forgiveness advocate, and champion of human rights Eva Mozes Kor, that was scheduled for Tuesday, March 14 has been rescheduled to Tuesday, Sept. 12 due to inclement weather. The rescheduled program will be in Lemmond Theater in Walsh Hall at 7p.m., followed by a book signing.

Misericordia University will honor tickets issued for the sold-out presentation. The university asks people who would like to keep their tickets for the new date to contact the Misericordia University Box Office at (570) 674-6719 by April 30. The university will issue new tickets for the Sept. 12 event by late May. The tickets that are not renewed will be available to the public beginning May 1.

Mrs. Kor's talk is part of the Medical and Health Humanities Deadly Medicine Speaker Series that featured eight special presentations from experts in the fields of the Holocaust, history, medical and bioethics, Judaism, and more. The series, which ran from January through March 14, complemented the provocative exhibition, "Deadly Medicine: Creating the Master Race,'' from the United States Holocaust Museum.

In 1944, Mrs. Kor and her family were forced into a cattle car packed with other Jewish prisoners and transported to the Auschwitz concentration camp. Mrs. Kor and her twin sister, Miriam, were just 10 years old. At Auschwitz, the girls were taken from their mother, father and two older sisters – never to see any of them again. The sisters became part of a group of children used as human guinea pigs in genetic experiments, under the direction of the now-infamous Dr. Josef Mengele.

About 1,500 sets of twins were abused, and most died as a result of the experiments. Mrs. Kor also became gravely ill, but through sheer determination survived and helped Miriam survive. The Soviet Army found about 200 children alive during the liberation of the camp on Jan. 27, 1945. The majority of the children were Mengele twins – Eva and Miriam Mozes were among them.

In 1995, Mrs. Kor opened CANDLES Holocaust Museum and Education Center in Terre Haute, Indiana, with a mission to prevent prejudice and hatred through education about the Holocaust. Thousands of people, including many school groups, have visited CANDLES since it opened. An arsonist destroyed the museum in 2003. A generous public helped to rebuild the museum. It reopened in 2005.

Powered by a never-give-up attitude, Mrs. Kor has emerged through a life filled with trauma as a brilliant example of the power of the human spirit to overcome. She has delivered her message all over the world, including several times in Germany, Israel and Poland. Mrs. Kor was the featured speaker at the 10^th anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in South Africa. She leads an annual tour of the Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland.

The award-winning film, "Forgiving Dr. Mengele,'' and the book, "Surviving the Angel of Death: The Story of a Mengele Twin in Auschwitz,'' have documented her life story. Mrs. Kor is also an advocate for genocide prevention. She organized and participated in multiple projects dedicated to ending the genocide in Darfur and commemorating the Rwandan genocide.

Mrs. Kor's presentation received support from the College of Arts and Sciences, the Medical and Health Humanities academic program, and the Catherine and Daniel Flood Endowment for the Humanities at Misericordia University.

For more information about the Medical and Health Humanities program at Misericordia University, please call (570) 674-6400 or log on to www.misericordia.edu/medicalhumanities

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The famous 'liberation photo' taken by the Soviet Army features Eva and Miriam Mozes in the front row holding hands, with Eva in the middle and Miriam on the right.

The Department of Fine Arts at Misericordia University is presenting a chamber music concert featuring the artistry of piano soloist Simon Juny Jung, and composer and pianist Stephen Charles Mayer. The free concert is on Friday, April 28 at 2 p.m. in Lemmond Theater in Walsh Hall.

Ryan Weber, Ph.D., assistant professor of musicology in the Department of Fine Arts at Misericordia University, is coordinating the concert event.

The repertory includes Frederic Chopin's "Andante Spianato" and "Grand Polonaise"; Maurice Ravel's "Gaspard de la Nuit (Ondine, Le Gibet, Scarbo)"; Robert Schumann's "Carnaval," and Mayer's own composition, "Piano Sonata 1986."

Jung and Mayer together founded the Simons' Pond Music Festival, a chamber music series in Honesdale, which has presented more than 50 concerts since 1999 both in the rural countryside, at major concert venues in New York City such as Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center, and for WJFF National Public Radio and the Louis August Jonas Foundation. Two CD's of the chamber music have been produced by the Simons' Pond Music Festival.

Jung debuted at Alice Tully Hall in Lincoln Center in 2004. He has also given recitals at Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, Merkin Concert Hall, Greenwich House Music School and the Kosciuszko Foundation in New York City. He is Alumni Winner of the Artists International Competition in the U.S.A. and the top prizewinner of the Chunchoo Piano Music Magazine Competition, among others. He is currently a staff pianist for the Mannes College of Music, New York City, as well as the Green Mountain Chamber Music Festival in Vermont and the Summer Intensive Violin Camp of Hyo Kang in New Jersey.

A graduate of the Mannes College of Music in solo piano where he also earned the Professional Diploma, Jung received the Master of Music degree in collaborative piano at the Manhattan School of Music and the certificate in collaborative piano at the Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara, California. He has premiered many pieces of his co-performer, Stephen Charles Mayer.

A distinguished American composer, Mayer received a bachelor's degree in Classical Studies and Masters in Music Composition from Brooklyn College CUNY, in Brooklyn, New York. He also studied at Brandeis University, at the University of Ghana, and at Brooklyn College, where he was inspired by three women – the late poet Vera Lachmann, American composer Tui St. George Tucker, who he worked for as an assistant for seven years, and the German-American pianist, Grete Sultan, who he studied under for 20 years.

He debuted as a pianist and composer at Carnegie Recital Hall in 1976, playing his own music, as well as that of Tucker, Ives and Schubert. He had subsequent recitals at The Town Hall and at Merkin Hall in New York. He presented a concert entirely of his own work at the Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall in 1987, serving both as pianist and conductor. His "America's Symphony" was performed at the St. Petersburg Conservatory in Russia in 1998.

He has worked principally as a liturgical musician serving as music director at Astoria Center of Israel from 1989 until 2014, and also as organist and choir director at several churches. Among works written for churches where he served are "Peter Claver," "Pax Christi Mass," and the "Sacred Symphony." Through his work, he attempts to reinstitute the ancient practice of providing contemporary music for churches and schools for use in everyday life.

For additional information about the concert, please contact Dr. Weber at rweber@misericordia.edu or at (570) 674-6182. For more information about the Department of Fine Arts at Misericordia University, please call (570) 674-6400 or visit www.misericordia.edu/finearts

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Misericordia University recently recognized the 13^th graduating class from the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Certificate Program during the annual certificate presentation ceremony in Sandy and Marlene Insalaco Hall.

Fifteen students completed the rigorous 18-month academic program, which includes classroom and clinical instruction. The sonography program – more commonly referred to as ultrasound – is for adult or non-traditional learners who possess the necessary pre-requisites. The program offers a convenient and predictable schedule with alternating weekend classes and a weekday clinical component. Classes begin every August.

Students honored at the annual completion dinner included Allison Beltz, Slatington; Corinne Charbonneau, Pottstown; Danielle Fereck, Pittston; Jessica Gauger, Watsontown; Hailey Gorton, Duboistown; Brittany Jones, Enfield, New Hampshire; Allison Krishak, Springville; Kelly Lynch, Avoca; Kaitlyn Proper, Horseheads, N.Y.; Jacqueline Reimer, Luzerne; Victoria Reinert, Pipersville; Stephanie Serafin, Larksville; Ashley Tirpak, Plains; Jocelyn Valencia, Scranton, and Kristin Wagner, Shavertown.

The university also has the region's only entry-level Bachelor of Science degree program in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. The bachelor's degree program was developed due to inquiries from students who sought a four-year degree and a traditional collegiate experience; the career mobility it provides compared to associate- or certificate-credentialed professionals in the field; the advantages of a liberal arts education provides graduates, and an academic program geared toward traditional students.

The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs awarded accreditation to the Misericordia University Sonography Program. Sonographers perform a diagnostic medical procedure that uses ultrasound to produce dynamic visual images of human organs, tissues or blood flow inside the body. Sonographers work in various medical settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics and physician offices under the supervision of a physician specialist in radiology, gynecology, obstetrics, pediatrics, vascular surgery, cardiology or ophthalmology.

For more information about the Misericordia University Diagnostic Medical Sonography Bachelor of Science degree or Certificate Program, please contact Sheryl Goss, chair, at (570) 674-6790 or sgoss@misericordia.edu. For additional information on the certificate program, please contact Maureen Sheridan in the Misericordia University Admissions Office at (570) 674-6451 or msherida@misericordia.edu. For information on the Bachelor

Caption:

The following students completed the Misericordia University Diagnostic Medical Sonography Certificate Program. Students who participated in the special program, first row from left, are Stephanie Serafin, Larksville, Pa.; Ashley Tirpak, Plains, Pa.; Jacqueline Reimer, Luzerne, Pa.; Danielle Fereck, Pittston, Pa.; Allison Beltz, Slatington, Pa.; standing, Allison Krischak, Springville, Pa.; Jessica Gauger, Watsontown, Pa.; Victoria Reinert, Pipersville, Pa.; Kaitlyn Proper, Horseheads, N.Y.; Brittany Jones, Enfield, N.H.; Kelly Lynch, Avoca, Pa.; Hailey Gorton, Duboistown, Pa.; Jocelyn Valencia, Scranton, Pa.; Corinne Charbonneau, Pottstown, Pa., and Kristin Wagner, Shavertown, Pa.

The Autism Center at Misericordia University, in collaboration with Geisinger Health System, is sponsoring a special presentation on Tuesday, March 28 by authors and journalists Jon Donvan and Carin Zucker – two of the most recognized experts on autism in the country. The event begins at 7 p.m. in Lemmond Theater in Walsh Hall.

Together they co-wrote the critically acclaimed and New York Times bestselling book, "In a Different Key: The Story of Autism.'' The presentation is free and open to the public, but due to limited seating tickets are required. To reserve your tickets, please contact Judy Weintraub at jweintra@misericordia.edu or (570) 674-6371.

Immediately after the program, the authors will hold a book signing event. All proceeds from the sale of their book will benefit the Autism Center at Misericordia University. Earlier in the day, Donvan and Zuker will hold a special session for students at Misericordia University.

"This is not a how-to-guide or a polemic on neurodiversity,'' wrote Amy Bloom of O, The Oprah Magazine, in a review. "The book probes a difficult subject with intelligence and compassion – and makes you think. The complete absence of hysteria will make it essential reading for many ... its insights and quiet wisdom demand our attention, and gratitude.''

In its review, the Wall Street Journal wrote: "'In a Different Key: The Story of Autism' tells a riveting tale about how a seemingly rare childhood disorder became a salient fixture in our cultural landscape. It features vivid portraits of people with autism and their devoted parents and recounts dramatic controversies among well-intentioned and occasionally misguided advocates and doctors who have tried to help those with the condition.''

A correspondent for "ABC News," and host and moderator of "Intelligence Squared U.S. Debates" (www.intelligencesquaredus.org), Donvan also has anchored ABC's "Nightline," served as chief White House correspondent, and held multi-year assignments in London, Moscow, Jerusalem and Amman, Jordan, during his journalism career. He is the winner of three Emmys and the Overseas Press Club Award.

Donvan became interested in autism's impact on families upon meeting his wife, the physician and medical school professor Ranit Mishori, who grew up in Israel with a brother profoundly affected by autism. Donvan and his wife have two children.

Zuker is a journalist and television producer who has reported on a broad range of subjects both domestically and internationally, including economic summits, presidential campaigns, social trends, and the Olympic Games. As a producer for ABC's "World News" and "Nightline," she worked alongside notable broadcast journalists Peter Jennings, Charlie Gibson and Diane Sawyer. Emmy-nominated, she was honored for her part in ABC's coverage of 9/11 with two of television's most prestigious prizes, the Peabody and the Alfred L. DuPont awards.

Her oldest son Mickey's autism diagnosis inspired her to bring a better understanding of autism's realities to the public. Zucker and her husband, NBC Sports executive John McGuinness, have three children.

Donvan and Zuker have been collaborating on stories about autism since 2000. At ABC, they created the pioneering series "Echoes of Autism,'' the first regular feature segment in network news devoted to understanding the lives of individuals and families living with autism. Their 2010 article in The Atlantic, "Autism's First Child,'' was shortlisted for the National Magazine Award and appeared in the paperback anthology Best Magazine Writing of 2011.Zuker also produced the series, "Autism Now,'' for PBS "Newshour."

As two journalists with a personal connection to autism, they aim to inspire acceptance of and support for people on the spectrum by telling their stories with honesty and compassion.

"The Autism Center and Geisinger Health System are pleased to be able to present two notable professionals who have been at the forefront of raising awareness for autism spectrum disorder for many years,'' said Leamor Kahanov, Ed.D., A.T.C., L.A.T., dean of the College of Health Sciences and Education at Misericordia University. "It has been my experience that few people have not been touched by autism's long arms. It is through programs such as this that our Autism Center and its collaborative relationships work together to remain at the forefront of developments in care for the betterment of the autism community.''

Established in 2015, the Autism Center serves as a resource for clinicians, practitioners, caregivers, and students majoring in the health and medical science fields at Misericordia University. A community resource, and educational and research entity, the center utilizes its collaborative relationships, synergies and faculty expertise to provide clinical services and educational camps on campus, while also being a repository for current best-practice treatments, community sources and more.

The College of Health Sciences and Education also recently introduced a post-graduate and post-credentialed online certification program in Autism Spectrum Disorders for health care providers. The academic program in the Department of Health Sciences prepares health care professionals in the fields of nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, physician assistant, speech-language pathology and more to work with clients who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. For more information, please go online to www.misericordia.edu/autismcert.

For more information about the Autism Center at Misericordia University, please call (570) 674-6400 or log on to www.misericordia.edu/autism.

The Misericordia Players will present the Stephen Schwartz musical, "Godspell," on April 6-9 in Lemmond Theater at Walsh Hall on the campus of Misericordia University. Performances on April 6-8 are at 8 p.m., and on Sunday, April 9, the show begins at 2 p.m. The cost is $8 for general admission and $5 for senior citizens, Misericordia students and alumni. Tickets are available at the door or online at www.misericordia.edu/godspell.

Based on a book by John-Michael Tebelak, "Godspell" is the musical retelling of the Gospel according to Matthew set in modern-day New York City. Via musical parables, Jesus Christ recruits a group of apostles and teaches them various lessons through song and dance. They travel across the city, spreading his message of love and tolerance, as the time moves closer to his betrayal at the hands of Judas and, ultimately, his crucifixion.

The play opened off-Broadway on May 17, 1971. It was heralded in a 2011 revival, which played on Broadway from Oct. 13, 2011 to June 24, 2012. Songs include "Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord," "Save the People," and "Day by Day," which reached No. 13 on the Billboard pop singles chart in 1972.

Jeffrey Kelly of Pittston, who serves as manager of cultural and special events and theater director at Misericordia University, is director and technical director for the production. Cassandra Palfey of Dallas is music director; Jaclyn Nat of Plains is choreographer; Audrey Ide of Dallas is costumer; Harry McKeown of Plymouth is set designer; Donald Hopkins of Dallas is lighting designer, and Richard Baldovin of Pittston is sound engineer. In addition, Jennifer Hunter of Dallas is the rehearsal accompanist, and Michael Trygar of Lake Ariel will play drums.

The "Godspell" cast features students Jacob Schweiger, Barton, N.Y., as Jesus, and Adam Ercolani, Bear Creek, as Judas. Student cast members also include Amy Koch, Reading; Stephanie Helsel, Woolwich Township, N.J.; Kali McCornac, Bethlehem; Michela Torbik, Wilkes-Barre; Nicole Leibeknecht, Audubon, N.J.; Sam Midkiff, Palmerton; Jacqueline Marchese, Staten Island, N.Y.; Dawson Kerch, Allentown; Aiden McAndrew, Scranton; Jessica Pachuski, Kulpmont; Meghan DiGerolamo, Budd Lake, N.J.; Lauren Hayden, Elizabethtown; Cordell Gresh, Pittston; Melanie Fry, Ambler; Noah Schweiger, Barton, N.Y.; Michaela McQuaig, Carlisle; Annette Ritzko, Coaldale; Emily Clarke, Hunlock Creek, and Madison Mokychic, Monroe Township.

For more information about the play and other cultural events at Misericordia University, please log on to www.misericordia.edu/theartsandmore or call the Misericordia Box Office at (570) 674-6719.

Caption:

Misericordia Players case and crew prepare for the upcoming production of the musical, 'Godspell,' from April 6-9 on campus. They include actors, front row from left, Sam Midkiff, Palmerton, Pa.; Nicole Leibeknecht, Audubon, N.J.; Meghan DiGerolamo, Budd Lake, N.J.; Jacob Schweiger, Barton, N.Y.; Lauren Hayden, Elizabethtown, Pa.; Amy Koch, Reading, Pa., and Cassandra Palfey, Dallas, Pa., music director; second row, Annette Ritzko, Coaldale, Pa.; Emily Clarke, Hunlock Creek, Pa.; Jessica Pachuski, Kulpmont, Pa.; Melanie Fry, Ambler, Pa.; Kali McCornac, Bethlehem, Pa., and Michela Torbik, Wilkes-Barre, Pa.; third row, Michaela McQuaig, Carlisle, Pa.; Jeffrey Kelly, Pittston, director; Cordell Gresh, Pittston, Pa.; Jennifer Hunter, Dallas, Pa., rehearsal accompanist; Noah Schweiger, Barton, N.Y.; Aiden McAndrew, Scranton, Pa.; Jacqueline Marchese, Staten Island, N.Y.; Dawson Kerch, Allentown, Pa.; Michael Trygar, Lake Ariel, Pa., and Madison Mokychic, Monroe Township, Pa.

The Department of Graduate Nursing at Misericordia University is transitioning its Master of Science in nursing (MSN) degree program into an online format beginning with the fall semester in order to make the program more convenient and flexible for Bachelor of Science degree nurses who want to become advanced practice registered nurses.

"We designed the online graduate program with the student and patient in mind,'' said Leamor Kahanov, Ed.D., A.T.C., L.A.T., dean of the College of Health Sciences and Education at Misericordia University. "The program's flexibility and rigor mean it will be convenient for nurses to develop the advanced knowledge and specialty skills that are in high demand today, while also ensuring the development of competent practitioners.''

The MSN program provides graduates with additional knowledge in health assessment, diagnosis and management of acute and chronic health conditions across the lifespan of individuals and families. Graduates also develop expertise in health promotion and disease prevention. Under the direction of clinical faculty, the MSN program also provides two intensive competency experiences on campus so students can develop advanced clinical skills, such as suturing, casting, and joint injection.

The 630 required clinical hours in primary care also can be completed close to home for added convenience. After successfully completing the 48-credit program, graduates are eligible to take the national family nurse practitioner certification examinations offered by the American Nurses Credentialing Corporation and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

The post-master certificate in family nurse practitioner (FNP) enables Master's-educated nurses prepared in another advanced clinical specialization to complete requirements to qualify for board certification as an FNP. Once completed, graduates also are eligible to sit for the national family nurse practitioner certification examinations.

Earning an MSN degree makes it easier for professional nurses to advance to the next level of their careers. Demand for FNPs, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, is forecast to grow 31 percent from 2014-24, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. The field's job growth is attributed to an increase demand for health care services due to the influx of newly insured patients, an emphasis on preventive care, and the aging baby-boom population, according to the Occupational Handbook Outlook report.

The Department of Graduate Nursing at Misericordia University is also in the planning phase for two new nurse practitioner tracks: Adult/Gerontological Primary Care NP and Adult/Geronotologial Acute Care NP.

The University also offers an online Doctor of Nursing Practice degree program with MSN to DNP and BSN to DNP options to accommodate the needs of busy health care professionals and in response to a growing national need. Misericordia also offers tuition discounts to alumni and to its preferred health care system partners.

For more information about the undergraduate and graduate nursing programs at Misericordia University, please call (570) 674-6400 or log on to www.misericordia.edu/nursing.

Misericordia University professors of psychology and English are collaborating on a research project and public theatrical presentation designed to promote the understanding and reduce the stigma of mental illness. Together, they will present, The Voices Project: Mental Health, on April 20-22 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, April 23 at 3 p.m. in Lemmond Theater in Walsh Hall. The presentations are free, and open to the public.

The Voices Project: Mental Health is the fourth chapter in an on-ongoing psychology project that explores society's attitudes towards people considered different. Under the direction of Alicia Nordstrom, Ph.D., professor of psychology and director of the Center for Faculty Professional Development, and Amanda Caleb, Ph.D., associate professor of English, 55 Misericordia students interviewed more than 60 people with mental health conditions and their family members to learn about their lives. The conditions explored include anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar, obsessive-compulsive, post-traumatic stress and suicide eating disorders, alcoholism, substance abuse, Tourette's Syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, and Alzheimer's/dementia.

Based on their interviews, the students wrote a first-person narrative about the person they interviewed to share how the mental health conditions have affected their lives. They integrated the narratives together and will present them in the theatrical program in April.

"My goal with this project – similar to the three previous versions of The Voices Project – is to teach my students about the experiences of people with mental health conditions," said Dr. Nordstrom. "My hope is that these students can reconsider the beliefs and attitudes that they may have towards people with mental health conditions by building relationships with people in the community who have graciously shared their life experiences and the stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination they face."

Dr. Nordstrom began the Voices Project began at Misericordia in 2009 by assigning it as a class project. Its intention was to reduce students' stereotypes and prejudice towards misunderstood groups. The students interviewed individuals from different groups – varying in race, religion, ethnic, sexual orientation, social class, and health status – and wrote brief memoirs about the life of their interviewee.

They integrated the memoirs into a staged reading program and read to an audience of more than 300 people at the end of the semester. One year later, Dr. Nordstrom surveyed students during the first and last weeks of the semester to see if they met their learning goals. Data showed students who completed The Voices Project had significant reductions in racism compared to students who did not participate in the project.

For the second phase of the project, they collaborated with the Northeast Pennsylvania Center for Independent Living (NEPACIL) in Scranton to produce The Voices Project: Disability. The memoirs, written in the first person, provided an honest and poignant look at individuals and family members with physical health conditions, including deafness, blindness, dwarfism, spinal cord injury, stroke, stuttering, spina bifida, cerebral palsy and arthrogryposis. More than 400 people attended a staged reading about the student interviews. They videotaped the production and broadcast it numerous times on WVIA-TV 44, the local affiliate of the Public Broadcasting System. A link to the 52-minute video is at www.misericordia.edu/voicesproject.

Voices U.S./U.K. was produced in 2014-15 as the third phase of the project. Dr. Nordstrom assigned her students to get to know people from "groups of difference," including sociological or cultural groups with which they might not be familiar. She paired the students with students in a psychology class at Blackburn College in Lancashire, England, via Skype and Facebook. They focused on learning as much as they could about each other, with a focus on childhood experiences, family relationships, academic experiences, social relationships, health, culture and personality. These students also wrote first-person narratives on the people they interviewed, and participated in surveys at the beginning and end of the project to assess whether their attitudes toward those in different cultures had changed. Many misconceptions the students held were debunked through the process.

"My hope is that the same effect will happen for my students' attitudes towards mental illness," Nordstrom said. "Many people with mental illness suffer in silence because they are afraid to tell their boss, their co-workers, or their neighbors that they have a condition because of the stigma it generates. They are forced to not only have to deal with their condition, but feel they must hide it. The stigma makes peoples' lives so much more difficult."

This is the first time Nordstrom partnered with another faculty member for The Voices Project. "Since there is such a significant writing component to the project, I asked Dr. Amanda Caleb if she thought her English students might be interested. The result has been an amazing collaboration as the students learn to work together, not only conducting the interviews, but putting together the written narratives.'' Dr. Nordstrom said. "Amanda's expertise in composition opened up creative ways for students to share stories besides traditional memoirs. Some students shared their interviewee's experiences as letters, poetry and cartoon panels."

Nordstrom is a clinical child psychologist who joined the Misericordia University faculty in 2004. Throughout the various stages of The Voices Project, Nordstrom has presented her findings at conferences in North Carolina, Georgia, Florida, California and Vancouver, Canada. She also received teaching awards from the Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues and the Social Psychology Network for her work. She also presented a talk at TEDxLancaster on The Voices Project in September 2016.

Caleb joined the Misericordia faculty in 2010. She is program director for the Medical and Health Humanities Program and coordinator for the Bachelor of Arts to Master of Arts program that offers students a seamless transition into the master's degree program in English Literature at the University of Reading in Reading, England.

Caption

Misericordia University Department of Psychology will present The Voices Project: Mental Health on April 20-23 in Lemmond Theater. The project was a collaboration between Amanda Caleb, Ph.D., associate professor of English, left, Alicia Nordstrom, Ph.D., professor of psychology and director of the Center for Faculty Professional Development, and Misericordia University students.

The Department of Occupational Therapy (OT) at Misericordia University is screening the movie, "Many Beautiful Things,'' in Lemmond Theater in Walsh Hall on Saturday, June 10 beginning at 6:30 p.m., as part of a fundraiser for the Deutsch Institute's Verve Vertu Art Studio.

The Beyond Harmony a cappella group, comprised of Misericordia University students, also will perform before the movie. The students' performance will emphasize the beauty of art and the spirit of giving. Beyond Harmony music director Molly Betz of Tamaqua, the secretary of the Misericordia University Student Occupational Therapy Association (MSOTA), is organizing the performance.

MSOTA members have been volunteering at Verve Vertu since 2016, after OT student and MSOTA President Lauren Apgar of Milford, N.J., organized a service project at the facility. Thanks to Apgar's project, about 12 OT students have been volunteering at Verve Vertu on a weekly basis.

The Verve Vertu Art Studio, 24 Main St., Dallas, is an arts apprenticeship program for the Deutsch Institute, which provides recreational and leisurely activities to people with special needs. The studio enables the artists with special needs to tap into their creativity using a wide range of mediums, including watercolors, acrylics, fibers, batik, wool needle felting and inks.

"Many Beautiful Things'' is a documentary that chronicles the formerly untold story of Lilias Trotter, one of the world's greatest female artists. The film takes viewers to Victorian England and an era when "women were thought incapable of producing high-end art,'' according to the film's plot summary. The documentary shares the story about how Trotter surrendered her promising career in art in order to help those most in need. She became a missionary to Algeria.

Verve Vertu Art Studio will use the proceeds from the event to purchase art and studio supplies, such as paint, brushes, ink, canvas, fiber, wool, and other fabrics, along with a variety of other artist's tools and media.

Tickets for the fundraiser are $10. To purchase advanced tickets, please go to Verve Vertu Art Studio, Ochman's Coin & Jewelry, 2607 Memorial Highway, Dallas; and Sun Tan City, Dallas Shopping Center, Route 309, Dallas.

Caption:

The Department of Occupational Therapy at Misericordia University is presenting the a cappella student musical group, Beyond Harmony, and the movie, 'Many Beautiful Things,' in Lemmond Theater in Walsh Hall on Saturday, June 10 beginning at 6:30 p.m., as part of a fundraiser for the Deutsch Institute's Verve Vertu Art Studio in downtown Dallas. Members of the planning committee, from left, are Johnna Evans, Misericordia University Center for Adult and Continuing Education; Molly Betz of Tamaqua, Pa., Beyond Harmony; Barbara Roberts, Gwen Harleman, Verve Vertu Art Studio; Dr. Grace Fisher, professor, occupational therapy; Jolene Miraglia, administrative assistant, Department of Occupational Therapy, and Jeff Kelly, director, Lemmond Theater.