Plymouth, N.H. –Plymouth State University will honor seven of its own with Alumni Recognition Awards during Homecoming & Family Celebration, September 23–25, 2016. The recipients were chosen by the Plymouth State University Alumni Association (PSUAA) Board of Directors and will be presented with the awards on Saturday, September 24.

PSU’s Director of Alumni Relations Rodney Ekstrom ’09G said the awardees are the true embodiment of the University’s motto, Ut prosim, Latin for “That I may serve.” “Our 2016 award recipients live the Plymouth State motto in their everyday lives. By serving their communities, their profession, and PSU, our award recipients reflect the caring and giving culture that our campus fosters. I’m proud to serve an institution with such a strong commitment to service, and honored to count these recipients among our alumni and staff.”

Debbie Manus Love ’90

Distinguished Alumni Service Award: Debra Manus Love ’90

Established in 1963, the Distinguished Alumni Service Award recognizes alumni who have service the University or its alumni organizations through unselfish devotion and loyalty.

Debra Manus Love ’90 is a wife, mother of twins in elementary school, community health professional, and volunteer. Despite having a full plate and a packed schedule, she is committed to maintaining strong ties to her alma mater and to the Tau Omega sorority, and encourages her friends, former classmates and sisters to do the same.

“Debbie’s love of Plymouth State and the Plymouth State Greek community is palpable. She is truly passionate about staying connected to the school where she made memories and met lifelong friends, including the sisters and brothers in other sororities and fraternities. Over the last five to six years, she’s been a true conduit to keeping the Greek community connected to the University. She’s taken the lead on many volunteer opportunities and roles in helping to plan each of the Greek Alumni weekends. … She is a true champion for the Greek community and Plymouth State.” –2016 nomination submission.

Chris Nadeau ’01

Alumni Achievement Award: Chris Nadeau ’01

The Alumni Achievement Award recognizes deserving alumni who exemplify the University’s motto Ut prosim (That I may serve) through active participation in and special contribution to the activities of the PSU Alumni Association, their chosen professional field, or the improvement of society in general.

Chris Nadeau ’01 has created a fun and fulfilling career that has led him to his current role as director of global creative development for boy brands at Hasbro. When Hasbro launched a graphic design internship program in 2014, Nadeau decided to pay it forward by working with his former professor and mentor David Martin, head of the PSU graphic design program, to find the right students for the opportunity. Through the internship program, Nadeau, who often returns to campus to talk with graphic design students, has helped two young PSU alumni launch their careers at Hasbro.

“Chris has been incredibly successful in his career as an art director at Hasbro and yet has maintained extraordinary selflessness by always looking out for those who need an extra hand. There are countless talented designers that he has brought in to Hasbro and helped coach to improve their careers. Chris exemplifies Ut prosim and has helped to improve the prestige of the graphic design department by offering internship opportunities for PSU students at Hasbro. I know he will continue to give PSU students this opportunity for years to come because that is just who he is.” –2016 nomination submission.

Steve Kelley ’83

Ut Prosim Award: Steve Kelley ’83

The Ut Prosim Award, established in 1998, recognizes an alumna or alumnus whose exemplary community service and contributions in business, professional, civic, philanthropic, volunteer or similar activities are worthy of recognition and have brought honor to Plymouth State University and exemplify the University’s motto Ut prosim (That I may serve).

Steve Kelley enjoyed a 32-year career as a teacher and principal—26 of them with Inter-Lakes Elementary School—before retiring at the end of the 2015-16 school year. In 2007, he was honored with a New Hampshire Excellence in Education (EDie) Award as NH Elementary School Principal of the Year. Under his leadership, Inter-Lakes Elementary School was awarded an EDie for Outstanding Elementary School in 2009.

“He has maintained close ties to PSU, consistently guest lecturing in PSU education classes and always hosting PSU student teachers. One of his most outstanding accomplishments has been the financing/fundraising and building of a ‘Living Classroom’ greenhouse on school grounds so that school children can plant and harvest their own vegetables. To say he’s beloved by a generation of elementary students, parents and teachers is an understatement. My family has been touched by his very personalized approach to assure every single child in his school is receiving exactly the right challenges and supports to succeed.” –2016 nomination submission.

Brett Lucas ’11

Recent Alumni Award of Excellence: Brett Lucas ’11

Established in 2008, the Recent Alumni Award of Excellence is awarded to alumni who have graduated within the last 10 years, in recognition of professional excellence and outstanding service to the University, association, community and/or nation.

Five years into an impressive sales career in Boston, Brett Lucas hasn’t forgotten his roots at Plymouth State. His service to his alma mater is ensuring that current students get the best education they can and that alumni stay connected to the University and to each other.

“Brett has been actively involved in the Sales Development Program and MAPS post-graduation. He has worked with me in developing the New Panther Business Club and bringing value with attitude, marketing, technology and his time and energy.

He is actively involved in the Adaptive Ski Program at Loon Mountain, and gives his all to his charities, community, workplace and PSU.” –2016 nomination submission.

PSU head football coach Paul Castonia

Faculty/Staff Award of Excellence: Paul Castonia

Established in 2008, the Faculty/Staff Award of Excellence is awarded to a faculty or staff member who exhibits a commitment to supporting alumni and students’ connections in a campus environment.

Coach Paul Castonia is beginning his 15th year at Plymouth State and has re-established the Panthers as one of the top programs in New England small college football. PSU enjoyed four straight winning seasons under Castonia from 2007–10, including three straight post-season berths from 2007–09. Plymouth State captured the New England Football Conference Championship in 2008 and competed in the NCAA Division III Championship Tournament.

Castonia coached the Panthers through the final season in the Freedom Football Conference, two years of being a Division III Independent, seven years in the New England Football Conference and helped usher Plymouth State in as a member of the Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC) in 2013.

The Joe Yukica Chapter of the National Football Foundation recognized Castonia’s impact on New England college football, presenting him with the Andy Mooradian Award for Outstanding Contribution to Amateur Football in 2015.

Even with all of these honors and achievements, Castonia’s commitment to PSU’s success goes well beyond football. Each year, he hosts an alumni networking dinner where PSU seniors meet alumni for career networking, and to discuss life after football. He has hosted this event in Manchester for several years, and it has become a tradition that alumni and football players look forward to every year.

“Coach Castonia understands the D-III athlete. Academics comes first, football second, and for Paul, football is both an end in its own right and a metaphor for life. He takes pride in preparing young men for what they will face off the field, and he provides opportunities for them to pursue life-long success.” –2016 nomination submission.

Anne Marie Vaillancourt ’16

Graduating Senior Award of Excellence: Anne Marie Vaillancourt ’16

Established in 2008, the Graduating Senior Award of Excellence is awarded to a graduating member of the incoming alumni class who exhibits outstanding campus and community leadership while enhancing alumni activities.

Anne Marie Vaillancourt ’16 has an impressive record of service that has already earned her prestigious awards and well-deserved recognition.

Vaillancourt was recently honored with the Presidents’ Leadership Award, which recognizes students or student groups who have made outstanding contributions to civic engagement. Her service includes coordinating PSU’s Angel Tree Project, a holiday gift program for needy children, and interning at the Whole Village Family Resource Center.

She was also named a 2016 Newman Civic Fellows Award recipient, a recognition bestowed on college student leaders who have demonstrated an investment in finding solutions to challenges facing communities nationwide. As such, she is considered to be among the next generation of the nation’s public problem solvers and civic leaders.

Kelsie Brook Eckert ’13G

Outstanding Graduate Alumni Award: Kelsie Brook Eckert ’13G

Established in 2008, the Outstanding Graduate Alumni Award is awarded to a graduate alum who, through earning an advanced degree, has been able to impact their profession, community or society in a positive and meaningful manner.

It isn’t often when someone new to a profession is hailed as outstanding, but that’s exactly what happened to Kelsie Brook Eckert ’13G. Just a few years into her career as a history teacher at Moultonborough Academy, Eckert was nominated for the Patricia Behring Teacher of the Year Award, which is presented by National History Day and recognizes dedication and excellence in history teaching. That nomination put her in the running for the New Hampshire Teacher of the Year Award, which she won in 2015—a mere two years after launching her career. It’s an honor that inspires her every day to work hard and to help her students reach new heights.

The PSUAA’s mission is to engage all alumni in meaningful ways to support the University, its mission and its students. Plymouth State University has more than 30,000 living alumni.

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Professor Ann McClellan. Kaleb Hart ’11 photo.

PLYMOUTH, N.H. – Professor of English Ann McClellan was recognized for her commitment to research and scholarly pursuits, as well as for her service to campus and beyond at the President’s Autumn Gathering on Monday, August 22.

“I am incredibly humbled and honored to receive both the distinguished scholarship award and outstanding service award this year,” said McClellan. “When I came to PSU in 2005, I was impressed with the level of scholarship and commitment among all of the faculty, which made me want to be a better teacher, scholar, and member of this institution. I’m grateful every day to work with such amazing thinkers, compassionate and innovative teachers, and dedicated university colleagues who are invested in bettering the lives of our students. I’m privileged to be part of that community and to play a role in PSU’s future.”

The Award for Distinguished Scholarship is presented annually to a member of the faculty whose body of creative and scholarly works is recognized for its rigor, originality and expressiveness, both within and beyond the Plymouth State community. McClellan’s scholarly work explores the complex relationships between literature and culture, with research ranging from fictional representations of British women intellectuals to her current project on Fan Culture and the Popularity of Sherlock Holmes.

As a scholar, McClellan models professionalism and critical thinking, and she lauds Plymouth State for deeply encouraging scholarship. “There’s a great community of teacher-scholars here,” she said.

The Award for Excellence in Faculty Service is presented annually to the faculty member who best exemplifies the goal of balanced and sustained service that has had a quality impact on the campus, the faculty member’s profession or the broader community. The recipient of this award exemplifies dedication and sustained service, as suggested in PSU’s motto, Ut prosim (That I may serve).

McClellan’s service to campus and beyond is wide-ranging. She is a multi-term department chair and has chaired a committee of other department heads for two consecutive terms. She has served on numerous university committees, many also for several terms. In 2015 students recognized her with their Distinguished Academic Advising Award and in 2010 she was presented the Kalikow Award for her significant advocacy of women’s issues. She has served as a judge for the National History Day competition held at PSU three times, presented a PSU Alumni Lunch and Learn Talk, and has been an advisor to organizations and academic programs such as the Women’s Studies Council, the Sigma Tau Delta Honorary English Society and the Iota Iota Iota Women’s Studies Honor Society.

McClellan sees her scholarship and service as integrally linked. As a presenter for the New Hampshire Humanities Council “Humanities to Go” series, McClellan recently presented “(Not So) Elementary, My Dear Watson: The Popularity of Sherlock Holmes” at the Dunbar Free Library in Grantham, New Hampshire. “Here I was, as a representative of Plymouth State University, talking with a group of 35 people from New Hampshire about literature, literary history, cultural history, media … and interacting with them in a free environment that educates the public about what we do in higher education,” she said. “I share with them in a fun and comfortable way that intersects with their interests, their behaviors, and their leisure time.”

PSU President Don Birx said that what impresses him most about Dr. McClellan is the seamless way that her teaching, research, and service come together in engaging and exciting ways that inform each. “Ann constructively and imaginatively affects the outlook and perceptions of our students, campus community and well beyond. Ann is the embodiment of the basis of the new PSU that is transdisciplinary, integrated and collaborative.”

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Media contact: 
Barbra Alan
baalan@plymouth.edu
(603) 707-0890

Tim Cameron photo.

Plymouth, N.H. – Plymouth State University has appointed Tracy L. Claybaugh as its interim vice president for finance and administration. Claybaugh, who started at PSU in late July, was most recently the financial officer at Penn State University’s Behrend Campus in Erie, Pennsylvania.

President Don Birx, who worked with Claybaugh during his tenure as president of Penn State’s Behrend Campus, said, “Tracy is widely respected at Penn State and was called upon numerous times to work across the system of campuses in tasks that gave her a great deal of insight and responsibility that extended beyond her responsibilities at Behrend. I am confident that she brings the ability to create systems and organization during PSU’s restructuring.”

Claybaugh has more than two decades of executive leadership experience in non-profit accounting, budgeting, contract administration, project management, compensation, risk management, campus facilities, university real estate accounting, and research administration. Her expertise was forged while working in the private sector at Brand Scaffold, where she was responsible for the accounting of a multitude of cost intensive construction projects in a variety of manufacturing and energy industries. Most notably, she was responsible for project management and accounting for multi-million-dollar oil refinery projects.

After a number of years in private-sector accounting, Claybaugh began her higher education financial career at Wilmington College in the late 1990s.  While at Wilmington she developed and implemented a campus-wide asset tracking system, improved financial aid audit processes, and refined the school’s accounting operations.  After her tenure at Wilmington College she accepted a position as director of finance and registrar with the Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Technology, a technical college. At a time of institutional transition, she oversaw the integration of new financial accounting software and developed the supporting finance policies and compliance guidelines.

In 2004 Claybaugh was named Financial Officer at Penn State University, the Behrend Campus, where she was responsible for the college’s $52 million budget, finance and administration, compensation program and various special projects associated with new construction, buildings, and general operations.

Claybaugh earned her bachelor’s degree in accounting from Waynesburg College in her home state of Pennsylvania. Working closely with industry leaders and leaders in academia throughout her career, she has a successful track record of facilitating major institutional change initiatives.

“I am so honored and excited to join an institution as beloved as PSU,” said Claybaugh.  “I was captivated by how much PSU has to offer the students and the community.  I am also particularly enthusiastic about working with a dedicated group of higher education professionals who are so devoted to the University’s mission and the students.  When I learned about the integrated cluster model, I knew I had the opportunity to be a part of something special that will truly change and shape the future of higher education.”

Claybaugh, her husband and two young children, ages 7 and 9, enjoy time outdoors together and have a busy life taking care of a menagerie of rescued pets.
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Media contact:
Barbra Alan
(603) 535-3009
baalan@plymouth.edu

Ian Halter photo.

Plymouth, N.H.– “Education is, quite simply, peace building,” Kofi Annan, former secretary general of the United Nations, once said. This thought-provoking notion was the inspiration behind Plymouth State University’s Peace Garden that will provide the campus and local community with a quiet, beautiful space for reflection, healing and the promotion of goodwill.

Leo Sandy, professor emeritus of counselor education and school psychology, developed the idea for a peace garden on campus. “We believe that universities are vehicles for peace and social justice, and the peace garden embodies PSU’s commitment to those values,” Sandy said. “We need visual reminders of what is important beyond ourselves, our towns and cities, our states and our countries. The Peace Garden helps to expand our horizons and helps give us inner peace. Every time a person becomes more peaceful, it creates a ripple effect.”

At the heart of the garden is a ginkgo biloba tree, which was planted during Arbor Day 2012. In addition to its unique beauty, the ginkgo is a symbol of longevity and of resilience—four ginkgos survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945 and are still alive today. The garden also features a plant-encircled labyrinth for visitors to enjoy a meditative walk. Local landscaper Jamie McMillan ’08, an alumnus of PSU’s environmental science and policy program, created the garden.

Kathy Tardif of Campus Ministry and a longtime supporter of the Peace Garden initiative, noted that the sacred space will serve many needs.

“It’s a space where individuals and groups can come together for meditation and contemplation, in support of peace and justice issues and to memorialize faculty, students and staff,” Tardif explained.

Tardif added that the garden reflects the spirit of collaboration that is a hallmark of Plymouth State University, and credited the departments of counselor education and school psychology, social work and social science, as well as Campus Ministry, the Peace and Social Justice Council, and the PSU Student Senate, among many others, with supporting the new addition to campus.

“Many people recognized the need for this space, and worked together to make it happen,” Tardif said.

The Plymouth State University Peace Garden will be dedicated on Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2016 at 9 a.m. behind Harold Hyde Hall and next to the Michael L. Fischler Counseling Center. The event is free and open to the public, and it will feature remarks from President Donald Birx as well as Sandy, Tardif, and McMillan.

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Media Contact:

Barbra Alan
PSU Marketing Communications
(603)-535-3009
baalan@plymouth.edu

Colin Kelley to discuss connection between climate change and migration

PLYMOUTH, NH – The Saul O Sidore Lecture Series at Plymouth State University will present Colin Kelley, associate research scientist at Columbia University’s International Research Institute for Climate and Society, on Monday, October 3, 2016 at 7 p.m. in the Smith Recital Hall at the Silver Center for the Arts. The lecture is free and open to the public.

In his talk, Kelley will show how poor governance and resource management, along with growing populations, have a combined and often disastrous effect on resource availability, especially water. Groundwater, which is vital for consumption and for irrigation in arid regions, is declining globally at an unsustainable rate due to overuse. High vulnerability and low resilience to change are essentially two sides of the same coin. Due to these management and population issues, when nations with high vulnerability have extreme weather or climate, they can be pushed beyond their thresholds of resilience. This is happening now, with disastrous consequences in Syria, leading to a refugee crisis. This lecture covers these issues and includes both modern and historical examples of the linkages connecting climate and human migration.

Colin Kelley is an associate research scientist at Columbia University’s International Research Institute for Climate and Society and a senior research fellow with the Center for Climate and Security. He received his Ph.D. from Columbia and was a postdoctoral fellow at the University of California Santa Barbara, focusing on climate variability and change, the climate-water-food security nexus and resilience in vulnerable regions. He was the first author of the recent study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, “Climate change in the Fertile Crescent and implications of the recent Syrian drought,” which provided evidence that climate change has already begun to exert a measurable influence with respect to water and food insecurity and state stability.

Named for humanitarian and New Hampshire businessman Saul O Sidore, the Sidore Lecture Series was established in 1979 by PSU and the Sidore Memorial Foundation. The series brings a variety of speakers to campus to address critical issues and events in politics, society and culture, topics that reflect Sidore’s interests.

All Sidore lectures are free and open to the public, but reservations are recommended. A reception follows each lecture.

Free tickets are available at the Silver Center Box Office, (603) 535-2787 or (800) 779-3869.

Collaborative exhibit featuring the works of visiting artist Jason Mitcham and 197 Plymouth State students focuses on theme of resilience and vulnerability

PLYMOUTH, N.H. (Oct. 12, 2016) — The Karl Drerup Art Gallery at Plymouth State University (PSU) will present works created by visiting artist Jason Mitcham, as well as visual art, written texts and interactive elements designed and presented by PSU students as part of an interdisciplinary project. The exhibit opens to the public Oct. 17, 2016 and will run through Dec. 9.

RESILIENCE: An Interdisciplinary Exploration will present a network of connectedness centered on the theme of resilience and vulnerabilities.

Nearly 200 PSU students will participate in this unique, dynamic exhibit that will evolve throughout the course of the seven-week show. Ten PSU faculty members from various programs, including art, environmental science, philosophy, computer science and others collaborated to develop study units for their classes based on themes of resilience and vulnerability. Students have created thematic projects, which will ultimately overlap and “connect” when the exhibit is installed. Visiting artist Jason Mitcham has been working with students and will provide central images for the exhibit.

“The goal of this exhibit is to create an interactive and interdisciplinary visual experience that explores the concept of environmental and societal resilience,” said Cynthia Robinson, director, Karl Drerup Art Gallery. “It is exciting to have a common concept explored simultaneously in different classrooms. It is both exhilarating and terrifying that we won’t know what the exhibit will look like until we install it, and even then, it will change over the exhibit’s time – truly a one-of-a-kind experience.”

Although primarily a painter, Jason Mitcham’s work has expanded into the realm of video, creating stop-motion animations from paintings. His videos explore the development of society’s landscapes, specifically notions of temporality, suburbia and modern ruins. The concept of resilience is a critical contemporary issue being explored and discussed on a global scale. With original pieces from Mitcham, along with his role in curating student work, RESILIENCE: An Interdisciplinary Exploration takes the concept from local mapping of vulnerability to the wider region and beyond, to encompass the experiences of international students.

A work by Jason Mitcham, which will be part of the exhibit, RESILIENCE: An Interdisciplinary Exploration, at the Karl Drerup Gallery in Plymouth. The exhibit will feature works in various mediums by Mitcham and PSU students. The exhibit opens Oct. 17, 2016.

Media Contact:
Barbra Alan
Plymouth State University
Marketing Communications
Tel: (603) 535-3009
baalan@plymouth.edu

Professor and Former Student Perform Four-Hand Piano Recital Oct. 30 at 4 p.m.

Jacqueline Morin ’07 with her former piano professor and mentor Dr. Carleen Graff. The pair will play a four-handed piano recital Saturday, Oct. 30.

PLYMOUTH, NH – Jacqueline Morin ’07 will be returning to the Smith Recital Hall stage for the first time since her graduation from Plymouth State. Dr. Carleen Graff, professor of music at PSU, first met her performance partner at the Plymouth State Piano Monster Festival when Morin was still in high school. Graff would later become one of Morin’s professors at PSU. Now, nearly 10 years later, the two will meet on stage to perform a four-hand piano concert.

“I will admit that there is a bit of an intimidation factor in sharing the stage with someone who was once my professor and returning to a stage that I haven’t been on since my senior recital, but I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity,” said Morin.

The concert will mark the first piano duo at Plymouth in over 10 years. “You don’t see a four-hand piano recital every day,” said Dr. Graff.

The two performers will play pieces from several time periods, from classical composers such as Johann Christian Bach (youngest son of Johann Sebastian Bach) to David Karp’s 2004 ode to the Old Man of the Mountain, which was written for Dr. Graff and the PSU Piano Monster Festivals. Another highlight of the night will be two pieces by Diane Goolkasian Rahbee, who was chosen as the New Hampshire Music Teacher’s Association’s Composer of the Year award in 2016. Other compositions to be performed are by Schubert, Debussy and Dello Joio.

Dr. Graff noted the experience is enchanting for audiences, saying there’s nothing quite like the intricate choreography involved when four hands move their way around a piano.

Morin added, “There are many aspects of the performance that you have to be concerned with that are not a factor if you are giving a solo performance.” Factors such as giving your partner space for the keys, balancing the separate parts, and “matching the articulation and phrasing of your partner” are not challenges that can be overcome by practicing alone. “Often you don’t realize where the problem spots will be until you rehearse with your partner,” said Morin.

Practice and preparation will be put to the test on Sunday, Oct. 30, at 4 p.m. when Dr. Graff and Morin meet on stage at the Smith Recital Hall in Plymouth’s Silver Center. Tickets will be on sale for $10 at the box office or by visiting purchase.tickets.com.

Contact: Emmett Warren
PSU Marketing Communications
(413) 875-2670
ew1012@plymouth.edu

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Strossen to explore immigration issues when faced with constitutional law

The Saul O Sidore Lecture Series at Plymouth State University will present Nadine Strossen, professor of law at New York Law School, on Monday, Nov. 7, 2016 at 7 p.m. in the Smith Recital Hall at the Silver Center for the Arts.

In her talk, which will be Strossen’s fourth visit to PSU, she will compare two sides of the immigration debate. The 2016 presidential race has pitted a refugee crisis against the fear of terrorism’s relationship to immigration. On the eve of Election Day, Strossen will look to answer the question: What rights, opportunities, and duties do and should migrants have under the US Constitution and laws?

Strossen became the first female president of the ACLU in 1991, and at 40, she was also the youngest. Strossen credits her father and her maternal grandfather with inspiring her to work in civil liberties, the latter was sentenced to be spat on for being a conscientious objector during World War I. Strossen is also an active member of NORML (the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws), and is an advocate for the decriminalization of marijuana.

“Having had the pleasure of speaking at Plymouth State University several times in the past, I am delighted to return to its lovely campus and to share ideas with the very special PSU community,” says Strossen. “Although Saul O Sidore died far too young, he left an inspiring legacy as a leader in both the private and public sectors, and as a generous philanthropist.  I’m proud to deliver a lecture that bears his name.”

Named for humanitarian and New Hampshire businessman Saul O Sidore, the Sidore Lecture Series was established in 1979 by PSU and the Sidore Memorial Foundation. The series brings a variety of speakers to campus to address critical issues and events in politics, society and culture, topics that reflect Sidore’s interests.

All Sidore lectures are free and open to the public, but reservations are recommended. A reception follows each lecture.

Free tickets are available at the Silver Center Box Office, (603) 535-2787 or (800) 779-3869.

Information about the Saul O Sidore Lecture Series is here.

Media Contact:

Emmett Warren
(413) 875-2670
ew1012@plymouth.edu

President Donald L. Birx, on behalf of Plymouth State University (PSU), and Professor Emeritus Michael L. Fischler announce a resolution of their concerns arising out of the character reference Professor Fischler provided in the case of State v. Kristie Torbick, and the University’s response.  President Birx and Professor Fischler will move forward together on the following basis:

PSU and Professor Fischler are in agreement on the important values and principles at the heart of the matter.  In particular, they agree on the critical value and importance of PSU being an open and welcoming institution for all students, including those who may have been victims of sexual misconduct, and maintaining a campus climate in which victims of sexual misconduct can obtain the support and services they need.  They share a common abhorrence of all forms of interpersonal exploitation, in particular the sexual abuse of children.  They are also in agreement on the absolute importance of citizen participation in criminal justice processes, including criminal sentencing.  The bedrock of this commitment is PSU’s unwavering commitment to protecting free speech and academic freedom.

President Birx acknowledges, respects, and appreciates Professor Fischler’s many contributions to PSU, PSU students, and the PSU community made over the course of his long and distinguished career, first as a member of the faculty, then as the founder and director of Plymouth State University’s “Counseling and Human Relations Center,” and currently as Professor Emeritus.  President Birx and Professor Fischler reaffirm their support for the University’s mission, which promotes (1) equal access to PSU’s programs regardless of one’s status, circumstances, or prior life experiences; (2) the value and importance of an open and welcoming campus community and culture, including students, faculty and staff; and (3) the provision of a safe, secure, and supportive environment for all.  Toward this end, they will work together to raise funds for a newly created “Michael L. Fischler Scholarship for Trauma Survivors,”  Said scholarship will be endowed and awarded annually to a courageous student survivor of a “traumatic event” (such as sexual assault, the sustaining of a physical or mental injury, experiencing domestic violence, having witnessed violence, surviving war, or surviving natural disaster).

The controversy arising over the testimony provided by many witnesses at the Torbick hearing reflects the challenge of reconciling free speech, civic duty, and victims’ rights.  PSU will be exploring this complex interaction through public forums as well as internal training.  The critical challenge in today’s culture is the role and effects of a social media driven news cycle that collapses complex issues into simplistic postings or soundbites that provide little context or opportunity for deeper dialogue and understanding.  President Birx and Professor Fischler believe there is a real opportunity to advance and model thoughtful dialog and listening at a time when polarization and talking past each other are staples of the day.  This tendency, especially important to today’s social media generation, will be an important topic for PSU students to address in and outside the classroom in the coming years.  We believe that PSU has the opportunity, through this situation, to lead in this discussion with our students, faculty, staff and community.

Finally, President Birx and Professor Fischler are glad for the opportunity to announce the resolution of their concerns, look forward to Professor Fischler’s return to teaching as an adjunct faculty member and supporting the counseling center, and wish to express their appreciation for the efforts of all who helped to raise awareness on all sides of the important issues raised.  They are also grateful for all who helped to make this resolution possible.

About Plymouth State University:  Established in 1871, Plymouth State University serves the state of New Hampshire and the world beyond by transforming our students through advanced practices where engaged learning produces well-educated undergraduates and by providing graduate education that deepens and advances knowledge and enhances professional development.  With distinction, we connect with community and business partners for economic development, technological advances, healthier living, and cultural enrichment with a special commitment of service to the North Country and Lakes Region of New Hampshire.  For information about Plymouth State University visit www.plymouth.edu.

Plymouth State University (PSU) alumna and current Doctor of Education candidate Alexa Schmid has been named the 2019 International Principal of the Year by the United States Department of State, the inaugural award for overseas principals in this annual celebration. Part of the National Association of Secondary School Principals’ National Principal of the Year program, the award recognizes a secondary school principal who teaches abroad and provides strong learning opportunities for students as well as exemplary contributions to the profession. Schmid is a native of Plymouth, NH.

“Alexa has made an impact on the lives of countless students across the world,” said Marcel Lebrun, Ph.D., Professor and Director of the Doctor of Education in Learning, Leadership and Community Program at Plymouth State University. “Plymouth State University is proud to play a supporting role in her story, ensuring that she has the training and resources to be successful in Kenya, and wherever life – and her career as an educator – may take her next.”  

After completing her undergraduate degree, Schmid served in the Peace Corps in Zambia, in Southern Africa, where she lived in a small village with no electricity and learned to speak the local language while she helped rural subsistence farmers with fish farming, agroforestry, animal husbandry, and agricultural practices. The experience expanded her worldview and ignited her interest in teaching abroad. Schmid began her career teaching in Cairo, Egypt, while completing coursework for her Master of Education degree with PSU through online and in-person classes during her summer breaks. While teaching at the American Embassy School in New Delhi, India, Schmid decided to explore administrative roles within education. Upon completing her Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Educational Leadership with PSU, she became the Embassy School’s Assistant Principal. In 2017 Schmid moved to Nairobi, Kenya, to become Principal of the International School of Kenya. She is currently working toward her Doctor of Education degree at PSU.    

“It is an honor to be recognized with this award. I’ve been fortunate to have some amazing mentors who have helped at every step of my career,” said Schmid. “I am also fortunate to have found a program – right in my own childhood backyard of Plymouth – that gives me the flexibility to live my dream of teaching abroad, working with students from different backgrounds, and making a global impact, while continuing my education. Because my coursework is online and through in-person classes over summer break, I can be at my best for my students each and every day. I hope that I inspire my team to grow and stretch to provide meaningful learning experiences for students.”

The International School of Kenya is a private, non-profit school founded in 1976 through a partnership between the United States and Canadian governments. The school serves the educational needs of both expatriate and Kenyan students who seek a challenging, international curriculum that leads to the International Baccalaureate Diploma program. Schmid oversees 260 students in the middle school, which includes grades six through eight, and she takes pride in preparing them for a rapidly changing world, providing them with the knowledge and skills they need to take responsibility, address challenges, and to become responsible citizens.

Schmid’s director, David Henry of the International School of Kenya, nominated her for the Principal of the Year award, exalting her can-do attitude that allows her to quickly adapt to new situations and find creative solutions to problems. She stood out among the other nominees because of her leadership in developing student-led community-building opportunities, supporting the school’s diverse student population and creating a sense of belonging and identity for her students. Schmid implemented a new advisory program, along with several clubs and leadership opportunities to enhance students’ voices.  She also transformed the school’s elective programs to encourage increased student choice, allowing students to follow their passions or find new ones.

Schmid is particularly proud of her work to support students as they take on leadership roles. She assisted a group of students who planned and led the entire school in a “Plastic Protest” on Earth Day, and then presented a single-use, plastic-free proposal to the school’s director. She also helped a student group in developing school-wide workshops on difficult topics, including race, gender, neurodiversity, and LGBTQ+.

Schmid has spearheaded various initiatives to improve the school’s operations and recruitment efforts. She also leads a diversity working group to improve the school’s cultural competency, global citizenship in the curriculum, diversity in staffing, and support for the school’s diverse community.

“My role as Principal is similar to that of a gardener,” Schmid said. “My job is to nurture and support those in our community so they can blossom. I aim to create fertile ground and a space where creativity, innovation, and possibilities are endless. I model this to my students by taking risks and showcasing my curiosity.”

Schmid will travel to Washington, D.C., in September 2019 to participate in The National Association of Secondary School Principals’ National Principal of the Year program. There, she will participate in professional development, network with peers, and be recognized for her achievement during an awards program and reception.

Schmid is looking forward to spending the summer in Plymouth, enjoying the break with her family and taking courses at the PSU campus. She expects to complete her doctorate studies in 2020.

The Exercise and Sport Physiology Program at Plymouth State University (PSU) recently earned recognition from two national organizations – the  National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM).

After rigorous examination of curricula, faculty and other factors, the program was approved as an NSCA Education Recognition Program (ERP)-recognized undergraduate strength and conditioning program. PSU joins other premier programs nationwide that have achieved this elite level of recognition. The NSCA ERP designation distinguishes institutions that offer programs designed to prepare students to become NSCA-certified as personal trainers and strength and conditioning specialists. PSU students will also benefit from expanded educational and networking opportunities through NSCA.

“We are thrilled and honored that our program has been officially recognized by NSCA,” said Ryanne Carmichael, Ph.D., CSCS, Associate Professor, Exercise and Sport Physiology. “We have worked hard, and it is a tribute to our dedicated faculty, staff and students that our program has achieved this important milestone. NSCA-ERP recognition will be a tremendous benefit to our students.”

PSU was also recently accepted as a member of the American College of Sports Medicine’s “Exercise is Medicine on Campus (EIM-OC)” program. The EIM-OC initiative promotes physical activity as a vital sign of health, and encourages faculty, staff and students to work together toward improving the well-being of the campus community. PSU will take this one step further by collaborating with community healthcare providers, as well as integrating with existing health-related initiatives on-campus. PSU is one of only 200 institutions worldwide to be approved by EIM-OC.

“The EIM-OC is a global initiative, and I’m happy that PSU will be involved,” said Carmichael. “The mission of the EIM-OC initiative is to connect campus and community to support the ‘Exercise is Medicine’ vision—to encourage the use of physical activity in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. We are excited to begin!”

PSU’s Exercise and Sport Physiology Program is part of the institution’s Health and Human Enrichment Cluster. Exercise physiology is the study of the acute and chronic adaptations to the stress of physical activity and how exercise can improve physiological function in general, while sport physiology specifically helps us understand and improve athletic performance.

Graduates of PSU’s Exercise and Sport Physiology Program are prepared to pursue careers in clinical and research settings, strength and conditioning, and the health/fitness industry. The program also prepares students to pursue graduate-level studies in exercise science, physical and occupational therapy, and other allied health professions, and for national certification exams in exercise science and strength and conditioning.

For more information about Plymouth State University’s Exercise and Sport Physiology Program, visit www.Plymouth.edu/academics.

The Rural Educational Leaders Network (RELN) at Plymouth State University (PSU) hosted its fourth annual summit, “Developing the School and Community Partnership,” July 17–18, 2019. Sixty educational leaders from New Hampshire and across the nation gathered at PSU and discussed the successes and challenges of rural schools and communities, the “rural advantage,” and opportunities that give students hope. 

“You can’t have strong rural communities without strong public schools,” stated Dr. Gary Funk, executive director of RELN’s national partner, the Rural Schools Collaborative. RELN’s goal is to develop partnerships between schools and communities, which can contribute to community sustainability while providing rich learning experiences for students. 

“Through the partnership relationship, schools are able to support students in developing deeper relationships with their communities,” said PSU Educational Leadership Professor and RELN facilitator Linda Carrier. 

“We were fortunate to hear from widely recognized rural education speakers regarding communication, place-based education, building hope among students, and education funding challenges and their impact on rural schools,” said Carrier. “We’ve built a strong network and community of rural educational leaders in the state and this is a time to convene, learn, and plan for the year ahead.”

Dr. Allen Pratt, executive director of the National Rural Educators Association, spoke about the successes and challenges of rural schools and communities. His primary focus is on the impact of rural schools and the role of instructional leaders at the district and building levels.

The ability to communicate the challenges and opportunities facing a rural school is one component of potential impact. Former Deputy Assistant Secretary for Rural Outreach of the US Department of Education John White emphasized that telling the rural school’s story to local stakeholders has a profound impact on success. He promotes and protects the success of people and organizations educating youth and adults, and of those who do the important work of revitalizing communities.

Bringing students into focus, Wade Owlett, a fifth-grade teacher at Clark Wood Elementary School in Elkland, PA, and recipient of the Pennsylvania Rural Teacher of the Year and 2018 National Rural Teacher of the Year awards, spoke of successes and challenges of students in rural communities and on the concept of hope in his keynote address, “The Rural Advantage: How Rural Opportunities Give Students Hope.”

NateMcClennen, vice president for education and innovation at Teton Science Schools (TSS) in Jackson, WY, focused on connecting attendees with how to scale the impact of place-based education through technology, innovation, design learning, and school networks.

Closing out the summit, John Tobin Jr., Esq., former executive director of New Hampshire Legal Assistance, overviewed New Hampshire’s complicated and inequitable school funding system.  Under New Hampshire’s Constitution, the state is responsible for ensuring that every child has the opportunity for an adequate education. “Tobin and his colleagues provide this presentation around the state,” noted Carrier, who can be contacted for further information.

The summit also featured a panel discussion of New Hampshire legislators that focused on working together to support our rural schools and communities. Panelists included Executive Councilor Michael Cryans (D-Hanover), Senator Bob Guida (R-Warren), Senator Jay Kahn (D-Keene), and Representative Ned Gordon (R-Bristol). “The panelists shared that legislators may not be hearing from enough of their constituents when it comes to issues regarding public education, and they encourage individuals to reach out to their representatives and senators to discuss their concerns,” said Carrier.

For more information about the Rural Educational Leaders Network, visit theruraleducationalleadersnetwork.wordpress.com.

The Rural Educational Leaders Network is a professional learning network for New Hampshire’s rural school and school district leaders. Membership includes over 100 rural school assistant principals, principals, curriculum directors, assistant superintendents, superintendents, and aspiring school leaders from Plymouth State’s Educational Leadership Graduate Programs. Members represent 36 SAUs. The network is made possible through an endowment by the late Anne Haggart.

About Plymouth State University: Established in 1871, Plymouth State University serves the state of New Hampshire and the world beyond by transforming our students through advanced practices where engaged learning produces well-educated undergraduates and by providing graduate education that deepens and advances knowledge and enhances professional development. With distinction, we connect with community and business partners for economic development, technological advances, healthier living, and cultural enrichment with a special commitment of service to the North Country and Lakes Region of New Hampshire. For more information about Plymouth State University visit https://www.plymouth.edu/

PSU CESLife will accompany students from college exploration through enrollment, and provide dynamic programs and services to enrich the college experience

Plymouth State University (PSU) recently announced the integration of its offices of communications and marketing, enrollment and student life into one comprehensive group, Communications, Enrollment & Student Life (CESLife). PSU CESLife will be the conduit for students and families who are exploring PSU as an option for higher education, guide them through the enrollment process and provide dynamic programs and services that engage students and enrich their PSU experience. The group will also include a parent and family resources team to support parents and families as they navigate the college experience.

“It is a natural step for us to integrate the teams that communicate with external and internal audiences, that help prospective students become Panthers, and create opportunities for Panthers to become engaged members of the PSU community as they evolve into confident adults and contributors to the workforce,” said Donald L. Birx, president, Plymouth State University. “This new integrated approach will leverage existing and new staff leadership to provide students – and families – a well-supported path on their college journey, from initial outreach to commencement.”

The PSU CESLife group is led by Marlin Collingwood, who serves as Interim Vice President. Collingwood formerly served as PSU’s Director of Marketing, Communications and Creative Services.

“Marlin has been an integral member of the PSU community since his arrival,” said Birx. “Beyond his formal role leading PSU’s marketing and communications efforts, he has been deeply involved in mentoring students, participating in campus events and activities, and in developing meaningful programs to help first-year students and others to integrate into the PSU experience. We are thrilled that he is leading this newly-formed group.”

The communications and marketing team, formerly Marketing Communications and Creative Services, is led by Corey Hoyt, interim director. Hoyt began at PSU in 2017 supporting internal communications, and brings a wealth of higher education marketing experience. This group is the starting place for all internal and external communications as it works closely with PSU Admissions on recruitment marketing initiatives. The group also works with PSU Student Life on student experience branding, as well as public relations and other communications programs.

The enrollment management team is co-led by Matthew Wallace, interim director of undergraduate recruitment and admissions, and Jeremy Heidenreich, director of enrollment operations and analysis. Both have been with PSU for several years and continue to lead innovative programs to attract and retain students. Enrollment Management’s team of admissions counselors focus on undergraduate, transfer and graduate student recruitment through regional travel and immersive campus visit experiences. Through inquiry, application, deposit, registration and orientation, the team provides information, opportunities and guidance to future students who are interested in PSU’s transformational Integrated Clusters approach to education.

The student life group brings together community involvement, campus recreation, student clubs and organizations, and a variety of programming opportunities to enrich the college experience for PSU students. PSU’s Student Life group will be led by Tevis Bryant, who joined PSU in July. Bryant joins PSU from Psi Sigma Phi Multicultural Fraternity Inc.’s National Headquarters, where he served as Director of Diversity, and Clarion University of Pennsylvania, where he led and advised Greek Life programming. The group has implemented a process of continuous improvement to ensure that PSU offers programs that engage and enrich the experience for its ever-evolving, dynamic student body.

In 2016, PSU began its transformation to an integrated clusters model of education. Since then, PSU has continued to evolve and innovate its programs and curricula as it strives to provide a learning environment in which students have opportunities to explore and collaborate as they address real-world challenges alongside peers from their own and other disciplines, faculty and members of the community-at-large.

For information about Plymouth State University, visit www.plymouth.edu.

About Plymouth State University: Established in 1871, Plymouth State University serves the state of New Hampshire and the world beyond by transforming our students through advanced practices where engaged learning produces well-educated undergraduates and by providing graduate education that deepens and advances knowledge and enhances professional development.  With distinction, we connect with community and business partners for economic development, technological advances, healthier living, and cultural enrichment with a special commitment of service to the North Country and Lakes Region of New Hampshire. To learn more about Plymouth State University, visit www.plymouth.edu.

One of only two New Hampshire institutions to participate in award-winning program

Plymouth State University (PSU) has joined JED Campus, a nationwide initiative of The Jed Foundation (JED). The partnership will enable PSU to evaluate and strengthen its mental health, substance misuse, and suicide prevention programs and systems to ensure it has the strongest possible mental health safety nets in place.

PSU’s robust student-focused programs and services include the Student Support Foundation, the innovative “Swipe it Forward” initiative for sharing meal swipes with students who are food-insecure, and the TRIO program that focuses on PSU’s first generation college students, those who are financially-challenged, and students with disabilities. By joining JED Campus, PSU reinforces its commitment to students.

Becoming a JED Campus involves a multi-year, strategic collaboration to assess and enhance the work that is already being done at PSU, and to help create positive, lasting, systemic change in the campus community. The program provides institutions with a framework for supporting student mental health, as well as assessment tools, feedback reports, a strategic plan, and ongoing support from the JED Campus Team.

“As a community, Plymouth State University is committed to meeting the needs of our students academically, socially, and emotionally,” said Marlin Collingwood, PSU’s Vice President of Communications, Enrollment and Student Life. “The JED Campus initiative provides us with a unique opportunity to look closely at our campus culture, policies, and practices in order to destigmatize mental health issues and create a positive, healthy environment for our students as they navigate this important time in their lives.”

“The college years are the age when many mental health issues first manifest, and it can be a time of significant stress and pressure,” said John MacPhee, Executive Director of JED. “JED Campus helps institutions by working with them to survey everything their university is doing to support their students’ emotional health and find practical ways to augment these efforts in a comprehensive way. We believe that the implementation of a campus-wide approach to mental health will lead to safer, healthier communities, and likely greater student retention.”

PSU’s membership in JED Campus begins with establishing an interdisciplinary, campus-wide team to assess, support, and implement program, policy, and system improvements. Upon completion of an assessment, JED Campus clinicians will provide a comprehensive, confidential feedback report identifying successes and opportunities for enhancements, and PSU will collaborate with JED to help implement them over the course of four years.  

JED programs have been widely recognized for their impact and have received the American Psychiatric Association Distinguished Service Award, among other honors.

More information about Plymouth State University’s Student Support Services, is available here. 

About The Jed Foundation (JED): The Jed Foundation (JED) is a nonprofit that exists to protect emotional health and prevent suicide for our nation’s teens and young adults. JED equips teens and young adults with the skills and knowledge to help themselves and each other; partners with high schools and colleges to strengthen their mental health, substance misuse, and suicide prevention programs and systems; and encourages community awareness, understanding, and action for young adult mental health.

About Plymouth State University: Established in 1871, Plymouth State University serves the state of New Hampshire and the world beyond by transforming our students through advanced practices where engaged learning produces well-educated undergraduates and by providing graduate education that deepens and advances knowledge and enhances professional development.  With distinction, we connect with community and business partners for economic development, technological advances, healthier living, and cultural enrichment with a special commitment of service to the North Country and Lakes Region of New Hampshire. To learn more about Plymouth State University, visit www.plymouth.edu.

The transition from high school to college can be intimidating. Recognizing the importance of establishing a solid foundation, Plymouth State University (PSU) introduced a pilot program in 2017 to help first-year students navigate the transition and to build confidence in their academic, social, and financial skills. After nearly 90 students from New Hampshire participated in the first two years, 73 first-year students in the Class of 2023 completed the five-day, pre-semester “Summer Ascent” program this year. This group included students from 13 states and 28 majors at PSU.

“After two successful years of helping students from New Hampshire ease into the college experience, we were thrilled to broaden the group and include out-of-state students in our third Summer Ascent program,” said Marlin Collingwood, Vice President of Communications, Enrollment and Student Life, Plymouth State University. “Students who participated in the first two sessions have not only thrived in the classroom, but have become campus and community leaders using skills and connections they acquired through the Ascent program. We are excited to see what this new group of students will accomplish during their time at PSU.”

Summer Ascent students arrived on campus on Saturday, August 17, and earned two college credits over the course of five days. The “toolkit” course taught in-demand skills, such as blogging, data storytelling, and marketing. The second course focused on PSU’s “four habits of the mind,” which equip students to meaningfully engage with the world by developing problem-solving skills, study skills, and techniques for networking and building relationships. At the end of the week, students showcased their work to campus community members.

The program includes housing, meals, and academic materials at no cost to participating students. Students also took part in activities, such as yoga, hiking, and other outdoor and community pursuits. The program helps students thrive both in and out of the classroom by developing friendships and support networks for their time in college. The full class of more than 1,100 first-year students arrived on campus on Thursday, August 22, and all PSU students began fall semester classes on Monday, August 26.

On Thursday, August 29, Plymouth State University (PSU) celebrated an important milestone in the education of its third-year nursing students with a ‘stethoscope ceremony.’ Twenty-nine third-year nursing students were presented with engraved Littmann stethoscopes, marking their transition to clinical practice.

“The stethoscope is both a symbolic representation of the nurse as well as a vital tool used in patient care, no matter the setting,” said Jean Coffey, PhD, APRN, director, Plymouth State University Nursing Program. “The nursing student’s transition into clinical practice is a defining moment in their nursing education. Finally, they can apply the knowledge they have acquired in the classroom in real-world practice.” 

The idea for the ceremony grew out of the PSU Nursing Program’s desire to celebrate its third-year students’ journeys into clinical practice and to provide them with the tools to be successful. In fall 2018, then-senior nursing student Lauren LaMontagne, who is now a registered nurse at the UMass Memorial Medical Center in Worcester, MA, spearheaded a fundraising campaign to support the effort. LaMontagne personally contacted PSU nursing alumni and clinical partners, including Littleton Regional Healthcare (LRH) and LRH Auxiliary, current and former PSU nursing faculty, and the Jack and Dorothy Byrne Foundation to solicit contributions. Uniformly Yours of Laconia, NH, a healthcare retailer, provided the engraved stethoscopes at a generous discount.

“Lauren’s effort to make this ceremony happen was nothing short of amazing, considering her hefty senior-year commitments,” Coffey said. “I am tremendously proud and grateful to her for helping our vision of a unique and meaningful ceremony to mark this important milestone become a reality.”

At the conclusion of the ceremony, the entire nursing student body and faculty members pledged their commitment to “the highest ideals and academic standards” in their nursing careers.