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Pierce
THE MAGAZINE OF RAVEN NATION SPRING 2021
Monitoring and improving the
water quality of Pearly Pond is a
priority for Environmental Sciences
Professor Dr. Catherine Koning.
ANDREW CUNNINGHAM Sophia Brown ’21 works on a large reductive charcoal drawing for the imagined space assignment in Drawing II.
Spring 21 VOL. 39, NO. 1
Features 26
Note: Photos of students, faculty, and staff not wearing masks were taken prior to the pandemic.
20 | A Watershed Plan 32 | College Communicator
Environmental Sciences Professor Expert strategist Randell “Randy”
Dr. Catherine Koning is part of a team Kennedy ’85 guides colleges and universities,
monitoring and improving the water quality including Franklin Pierce, through the
of Pearly Pond to preserve the natural beauty challenges and rewards of effective
of Franklin Pierce for the future. communication.
BY MATT JANIK BY JANA F. BROWN
26 | Breaking New Ground
Professors Priscilla Marsicovetere and
Leila Jabbour are committed to the research On the Cover
and perspective it takes to treat and prevent Dr. Catherine Koning is one of the
substance abuse disorder. architects behind the Pearly Pond
Watershed Restoration Plan, a 10-year
BY IAN ALDRICH capital improvement blueprint with
a mission of lowering phosphorous
levels in the watershed.
PHOTOGRAPHER:
ANDREW CUNNINGHAM
How are we doing? What do you like? What stories do we need to know about?
Let us hear from you: editor@franklinpierce.edu
2 PIERCE SPRING 2021
Departments
14 18 5 President’s Message
Adaptability, Resiliency, and Reinvention
– Looking to the Future
6
6 Ravenings
Increased access means growing diversity in the
DPT program, FPU launches a customizable
skill program with the City of Manchester,
new strategic leaders, introducing Pierce@60,
Kathi Bond ’92 excels in the global cleaning
industry, Professional Development Day series
moves to Tuesdays, virtual counseling visits are
here to stay, MEPN provides a new avenue to
career success, Classes of 1969 and 1970
donate legacy gift, Heather Ringwald makes
masks to protect the community.
16 Ravens Roundup
Alison Palma ’17 combines her love of sports
and photography, Caitlin Sweeney ’18 and
Marykate Cullinane ’19 transition from
student-athletes to coaches, Franklin Pierce
teammates push each other to new heights,
female FPU athletic administrators participate
in NCAA Mentoring Program, Raven
student-athletes adjust to a semester of
modified practices.
38 Events
Pearly Pond Skating Event, MPAS Pinning,
Class of 1970 Virtual Reception, FPU
Mariners Virtual Reception, Class of 1971
Virtual Reception, Alumni Virtual Trivia
Game, Gingerbread Houses, Holiday Dinner,
Senior Fireworks, Day of Giving, In-Person
Admissions Event , Race, Prison, and the War
on Drugs.
42 Spotlight
11
In 45 years at Franklin Pierce,
Professor Forbes Farmer has made his
mark in many ways.
44 Archives
Franklin Pierce’s Community Archive project
38
seeks to preserve memories of the pandemic.
SPRING 2021 PIERCE 3
Pierce
FRANKLIN PIERCE UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE
SPRING 2021 | VOL. 39, NO. 1
UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT
Kim Mooney ’83, Ph.D.
ALUMNI ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT
Amanda MacGee ’03
VICE PRESIDENT FOR UNIVERSITY ADVANCEMENT
Julie Zahn
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Jana F. Brown
ART DIRECTOR & DESIGNER
Carolyn Bowes
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Ian Aldrich
Marissa Colcord
Lily Collins ’22
Katie Copeland
Ken Ferreira
Ezra Gennello ’22
Matt Janik
Michael Matros
Crystal Neuhauser
Samantha Norwood ’23
Rebecca Saunders
Julie Zahn
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Andrew Cunningham
Adam Diliddo ’23
Dan Forget
Noah Garofalo ’24
Connor Guartafierro ’24
Luke Newman ’21
Alison Palma ’17
Meghan Stokes ’23
ANDREW CUNNINGHAM
Pierce Magazine is published biannually by Franklin Pierce University. Nonprofit postage paid at Rindge, N.H., and additional entry offices. Pierce Magazine is
guided by the principles of freedom of expression and accepted standards of good taste. The views expressed are those of the signed contributors and do not
necessarily represent the views or official opinions of Franklin Pierce University.
POSTMASTER: Please send address changes, Form 3579, to Franklin Pierce University, Alumni & Parent Relations Office, 40 University Dr., Rindge, NH 03461.
4 PIERCE SPRING 2021
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Adaptability,
Resiliency, and
Reinvention –
Looking to the
Future
K
eeping pace with the ever-changing landscape of
higher education pushes us to meet the needs of today’s
students and prepare for the expectations of future
students. Proactive planning drives us to think beyond
our current academic offerings to ensure we are ready to educate
students to be the thought leaders for our communities and an President Mooney
evolving workforce. welcomes students to
Almost every aspect of teaching, learning, and working at campus at the start of the
2020–21 academic year.
Franklin Pierce University changed over these last 12 months.
While the COVID-19 pandemic will continue to require
adaptations all around the University, we will continue to draw from
our resiliency and reinvent approaches to daily life on campus and at our You will learn more about how Ravens are leading the way to address
centers. Franklin Pierce remains an institution that will never stand still. substance abuse and the opioid epidemic, studying the human brain
Although the mechanisms and tools may be different, Franklin for clues, and detailing changes that potentially both result from and
Pierce faculty continue to meet each and every student where they are contribute to drug abuse. With grant funding, our Master of Physician
and empower them to realize their full potential. In turn, our students Assistant Studies program refines a common national curriculum to
continue to adapt to new teaching and learning modalities and include cutting-edge research on substance abuse to improve training
reimagine ways to build community in the face of rigorous health and for future healthcare workers. They often provide the first line of
safety guidelines. Across our campus and academic centers, Franklin emergency treatment for overdose.
Pierce staff continue to reinvent the ways we work and collaborate, and You will discover more about our alumni, including Randy
leverage new uses of technology to serve students. Kennedy ’85, supporting Franklin Pierce with their skills and
This is the spirit of Raven Nation – undeterred as we look ahead to expertise. As president and founder of Academy Communications,
our 60th anniversary. Over these near six decades since our founding, Randy is celebrating 20 years of providing colleges, universities, and
students, alumni, faculty, and staff have created a community that educational foundations with strategic media relations consulting
embraces diverse perspectives, backgrounds, experiences, and ideas, for and communications services. From crises to celebrations, his counsel
we collectively believe these attributes strengthen all of us. continues to help clients navigate the fast-paced media environment.
In this issue of Pierce Magazine, you will learn more about our I remain so very proud of the adaptability and resiliency that
strategic plan, Pierce@60, the fruit of diligent work and collaboration exemplifies Raven Nation. In a time when success in higher education
of faculty, staff, and students. This guiding document builds on remains synonymous with continuous reinvention, the driving force
our past success and positions the University for continued growth behind Franklin Pierce – our commitment to our students – is stronger
through its 60th year and beyond. It highlights our desire to lead – in than ever. I invite you to join us, take a moment to reflect on our history,
educational innovation; in community engagement around diversity, and celebrate all we have accomplished. The future of Franklin Pierce is
equity, and inclusion and sustainability; and in further building bright, and we are just getting started.
financial security.
This issue also highlights the innovative spirit that exemplifies the Ever forward,
best of Franklin Pierce. You will read about the research our faculty
ANDREW CUNNINGHAM
are doing on Pearly Pond water quality management. In collaboration
with environmental science students, this effort addresses the nutrient
enrichment affecting this landmark on our Rindge campus and the
design and installation of a specialized filter that removes phosphorus KIM MOONEY ’83
before it reaches the water supply. PRESIDENT
SPRING 2021 PIERCE 5
The amount of challenge and critical thinking it takes makes each day different and more interesting. — EMMA CIARANCA ’20, MEPN ’22
RAVENINGS
Leadership in Nursing
Master’s Entry Program in Nursing
provides a new avenue to career success.
T
he nursing shortage in New Hampshire – and nationally – is of long
duration. Even before the current pandemic, nursing was the third-most
in-demand profession in the U.S.
Over the years, Franklin Pierce University has responded with both
undergraduate and graduate nursing programs. But, last year, the School of
Nursing announced another path toward joining or advancing in the profession. FPU’s
new Master’s Entry Program in Nursing (MEPN) will allow students with college
majors in areas other than nursing to earn two degrees simultaneously. As of March the
current cohort of six young women is beginning a third term in the program, and
advancing toward nursing leadership roles in healthcare.
“Getting a master’s and bachelor’s degree in nursing in only 18 months is
unimaginable,” says student Amelia Mamone ’20, MEPN ’22, from Albany, N.Y. A new
FPU graduate in health sciences, Mamone says she always planned a career in nursing.
“When this program became available,” she says, “I couldn’t pass up staying with a
school that I had loved so much.”
Before last year, Franklin Pierce offered both a bachelor’s and master’s in nursing, but
the new MEPN, culminating in the generalist master of science degree, offers “a more
robust, more global, picture of nursing at the higher level,” according to Dr. Paula
McWilliam, director of the University’s School of Nursing.
While the other nursing programs are conducted online, she says, the core,
pre-licensure courses of the MEPN “are all face-to-face.”
And they are also extremely rigorous, McWilliam says, adding that participants should
not expect to work outside the program during the six terms toward completion. Being
admitted also carries significant requirements. Among them are a bachelor’s degree and a
B grade or better in chemistry, human anatomy, microbiology, and other courses.
The program, says participant Emma Ciaranca ’20, MEPN ’22, “is rigorous for a good
reason. The reality is that we will be caring for human beings, and there will be little
room for error.”
Ciaranca, from Plymouth, Mass., earned a bachelor’s in health science from FPU and
worked for six years as a nursing assistant in her home state. Initially, she intended to
ANDREW CUNNINGHAM
take her master’s degree back to the nursing home where she’d worked, but the clinical
rotations in the program left her ready to explore other options.
“We are currently in the medical-surgical rotation,” she says, “and the amount of
challenge and critical thinking it takes makes each day different and more interesting.”
For Amelia Mamone, there was yet another reason for enrolling: “I was also given the
opportunity to play my last season of softball, which only made my decision easier.”
—Michael Matros
RAVENINGS
Tuesdays@2pm
Pandemic readjustment means Professional Development Day
series moves to Tuesdays.
S
ince 2018, faculty and staff have gathered As I went through pandemic necessitated Professional
together for a full day of professional the class, I had this Development Day 2021 to morph into a virtual
development and training during the month format, known this year as Tuesdays@2pm.
of January, prior to the return of students from
awakening. My mind President Kim Mooney ’83 supported
winter break on the Rindge campus. started to expand. dedicating three Tuesdays in January for a
These sessions have been a collaborative effort Those books led to the professional development and training series
between the President’s Office, Strategic Planning, man I am today, the lasting approximately 90 minutes in an effort
and Human Resources, with a focus on issues activist I am today. to prevent Zoom fatigue. Each of the events
central to the strategic plan of the University. Just drew more than 100 attendees from across
as many University operations have required —RAYMOND SANTANA the University for focused sessions central to
reimagining, the restrictions of the COVID-19 the FPU’s new strategic plan, Pierce@60.
Topics included a session on sustainability
and a winter update from President Mooney and members of the
senior staff. Keynote speaker Raymond Santana of the exonerated
Central Park Five concluded the series with a focus on diversity,
equity, and inclusivity. Students were also invited to participate in
Mr. Santana’s session.
In his keynote address, Mr. Santana credited a college professor he
encountered while in prison with shaping his activism.
“I had a black studies class,” he said. “I had this professor by the
name of Latif Islam. He had a real deep voice so that, when he spoke,
we would always listen. I remember asking him why he gave us so
many books when the syllabus said we were only going to use one.
As I went through the class, I had this awakening. My mind started
to expand. Those books led to the man I am today, the activist I
am today.”
The sustainability session was led by Professor Catherine Owen
Koning, Derek Scalia ’05, and Ken Ferreira and took colleagues
through the process of converting the 17 sustainability goals adopted
by the United Nations and tailoring them to Franklin Pierce. An
ongoing audit will wrap up during the spring 2021 semester and
include another report to the FPU community after commencement.
President Mooney led the winter University update with three
focused components:
■ Our immediate present;
■ The impact that COVID-19 has had on key areas of the University,
specifically on enrollment and academics; and
■ Pierce@60 – both the strategic plan and the celebration as we
look ahead.
“There is always more going on than we could cover in one update,”
President Mooney said, as she thanked colleagues for attending and the
senior staff, who were delighted to update the community.
Keynote speaker
Feedback on the Tuesdays@2pm professional development series has
Raymond Santana been very positive, and consideration will be given to a potential hybrid
concluded the series model for 2022. —Ken Ferreira
with a focus on diversity,
equity, and inclusivity.Pierce@60
With the 60th anniversary of Franklin Pierce on the horizon,
the University is poised for continued success.
C
hange – the call to adapt – is one of the few constants in life, self-assessment, the University has built a clear path forward. In
perhaps in recent times more than ever, and higher education celebration of this momentous milestone, FPU will be hosting a
remains no exception. yearlong celebration, Pierce@60, culminating on the 60th anniversary
In spite of challenges faced and those to come, Franklin Pierce of its founding in November 2022.
continues to renew its commitment to strategic and long-range Homecoming Weekend 2021 will serve as the official kick-off for a
planning, resiliency, and continuous reinvention as we approach the series of celebratory milestone events and as a time of scholarly
60th anniversary of the University with the recently launched strategic reflection, complete with academic panels, lectures, presentations, and
plan, Pierce@60. signature events hosted by the University our three academic colleges.
Building from the successful implementation of the previous “With the challenges we have faced over the last year,” says President
strategic plan, Pierce@60 serves as an ambitious, results-oriented guide Kim Mooney ’83, “looking ahead to our Pierce@60 celebration
that incorporates throughout its vision the University’s values of provides the entire Franklin Pierce community an opportunity to
inclusion and innovation. The plan capitalizes on the strengths of the reflect on our journey, rejoice in our successes, and renew our
diverse community of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends while commitment to our mission, vision, and values.”
securing Franklin Pierce University’s reputation as a destination The Pierce@60 emblem has been developed to complement the
ANDREW CUNNINGHAM
institution for relevant educational programs attuned to regional and current Franklin Pierce branding and highlights the work of the
national cultural and economic forces. strategic plan while promoting the upcoming celebration. This emblem
From a position of strength established over the last six decades, will be rolled out throughout the Franklin Pierce community in
Franklin Pierce remains confident and proud of its continuous mission anticipation of the anniversary, around the campus, at academic
of providing academic excellence and leadership in the world of higher centers, and as part of a special section of the Franklin Pierce website
education. With an appropriate mix of ambition and honest dedicated to Pierce@60. —Marissa Colcord and Julie Zahn
SPRING 2021 PIERCE 9RAVENINGS
Meeting the Demand
Kathi Bond ’92 excels in the male-dominated
global cleaning industry during the pandemic.
A
s the rest of the world seemed to be coming best to find the products that were needed to help
to a halt due to the COVID-19 pandemic, companies and their employees remain safe,” Bond
Kathi Bond ’92 was getting busier by the day. says. “The demand of our types of products increased
As the director of category development at throughout the pandemic in healthcare and grocery,
Network Distribution®, a multi-billion dollar cleaning and we saw a decline in hospitality, education, and
and food service distribution company, Bond faced property management.”
many new challenges with the onset of the pandemic. Bond began her career as an inventory analyst and
Demand for items such as hand sanitizer, PPE, and worked her way up to become a senior merchant in a
disinfectants grew exponentially, and she had to make 14-year career at Office Depot. She spent two years
sure the company could supply its business partners as director of product marketing at Shoes for Crews
with the products they needed to stay safe and and four years as director of merchandising at
healthy. As a result, Bond and her team had to get Interline Brands, before joining Network in 2018.
creative in sourcing and receiving these high-demand She credits her Pierce education with helping her
products. This included building relationships with “pivot when I needed to as changes happened.”
new suppliers, while being careful to make sure the Bond was living in South Florida when she was
products purchased were ethical and safe. recruited by the women’s soccer program at Franklin
With a declining supply and increased demand Pierce in the late 1980s. Her time at the University,
came many new tests. From shortages of containers she says now, gave her the confidence required for
to glitches with shipping product from overseas to future success.
the lack of drivers and trucks available to move “[Franklin Pierce] provided me the foundation,”
product throughout the U.S., Bond worked long days she says, “to build a career where I continue to grow
to ensure she was supporting her business partners. and make a difference.”
“There were some challenging product requests Bond has made that difference in a male-
due to the pandemic, like body bags, but we did our dominated industry. Despite her busy schedule, she
finds time to be a mentor to women looking to join
the cleaning distribution field. Her company,
Network Distribution, partnered with other
distributors and suppliers in the cleaning industry
to create The ISSA Hygieia Network, a nonprofit
dedicated to advancing and retaining women in
the cleaning industry through mentoring and
leadership training.
Through the organization, billed as “the first
women’s network for the global cleaning
community,” Bond is able to support women
building their careers.
As the world continues to adapt to the pandemic,
Bond sees a bright future for the cleaning and
distribution industry, which continues to pivot in
ANDREW CUNNINGHAM
response to client and consumer needs. Heather Ringwald holds
“My field is growing in leaps and bounds as the one of the masks that
focus on cleaning for health increases,” she says. she and her daughter,
Jayce ’18, made for the
“The demand for the types of products I source will staff and faculty of
Kathi Bond ’92 continue to grow as we get back to the new normal.” the University.
—Katie Copeland
10 PIERCE SPRING 2021Mask Maker
Heather Ringwald has been sharing her talents
with the FPU community for many years.
D
uring one of her essential-errand runs last summer, President Kim Mooney
’83 happened upon the Jaffrey-Rindge Lions Club storefront in Jaffrey,
N.H., which was producing handmade masks.
She immediately thought of her Franklin Pierce colleagues and asked, “How
many can you make?” A volunteer replied, “We could make you 100 if that’s what
you need.” At the time, the Rindge campus had been working remotely since
March, and this was a wonderful way to show the essential employees who
remained on campus how much they were appreciated. Wanting the masks to
feature school colors, President Mooney placed the order immediately, and
promised to return with the fabric.
On her way home, she decided she also wanted to brand the masks with the
FPU logo. That is when President Mooney called her executive assistant, Heather
Ringwald. The collaboration began immediately, and Heather called on her
daughter, Jayce Ringwald ’18, to design a logo that could be added to the masks.
While the Lions Club volunteers sewed their 100 masks, President Mooney,
Heather, and Jayce sampled several options for the logo and selected special craft
paper that could be used to make an iron-on.
The first 20 or so 2½ inch FPs were cut by hand (with very small scissors), when
Jayce decided to invest in a Cricut fabric-cutting machine, speeding up the process.
By the time Heather had the Lions Club masks in hand and started ironing on the
logos, the University was solidifying plans to return to on-ground teaching and
learning for the fall.
“I thought it would be the perfect way to welcome everyone back if we could
have enough masks to share,” Heather recalls. “I love my coworkers, and I truly
wanted them to know how much they are appreciated.”
She shared her thoughts with President Mooney, who reached back out to the Lions
Club. Unfortunately, they did not have the capacity to make another 400 masks. Not
willing to settle, Heather reenlisted Jayce’s help, and developed a plan. With a home
office on one end of the dining room table and two sewing machines on the other,
mother and daughter planned to make about 40 masks per week – enough for all staff
and faculty when everyone returned in August. There was only one glitch.
“The States of New Hampshire and Massachusetts ran out of grey fabric,”
Heather laughs. “We contacted every JOANN Fabrics in both states and took
what they had left.”
The project was completed and masks were presented to community members on
the Rindge campus and mailed to colleagues in the Lebanon and Manchester,
N.H., and Goodyear, Ariz., Centers. While the mask project was a special effort,
Heather Ringwald is no stranger to sharing her creative talents with the
community. For the last few years, she has been crocheting special FPU blankets for
alumni and friends of the University. Before she sits down to crochet the blankets, a
lot of time goes into pattern and color selection, and no two are alike, but all
feature the FP logo.
“My hope is that they use it, share it,” she says, of the afghans that are
auctioned off at Reunion Weekend, “and, when the time is right, pass it on
to a loved one.”
—Julie Zahn
SPRING 2021 PIERCE 11RAVENINGS
Higher (Ed) Calling
Increased access has meant growing diversity in
the Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
I
f Dr. Letha Zook had her way, the American healthcare system
would begin to look a lot more like Franklin Pierce’s Department of
Physical Therapy. That’s because, over the last several years, the
University has significantly broadened its reach to a more diverse pool
of candidates.
“Healthcare disparities are real,” says Zook, who chairs FPU’s Doctor
of Physical Therapy (DPT) program and helms the University’s
Goodyear, Ariz., campus. “How can we as a profession say we’re
addressing those disparities if we’re not addressing them in our ranks?”
Zook, who arrived at FPU last February after a long career as an
educator, academic provost, and working physical therapist, has helped
strengthen the program’s previous commitment to diversifying its
incoming classes. The results have been significant. Over the last two
years, it has doubled minority enrollment, resulting in a 2023 class that is
40 percent non-white.
The changes have been philosophical and operational. The program’s
recalibrated admissions process has resulted in placing less weight on
standardized testing and instead put greater importance on life
experience.
“We’re emphasizing resiliency and service,” Zook says. “We’re looking
at how people have overcome challenges and what kind of contributions
they’ve made to society. I’m not looking for privilege. I’m looking for
somebody who had to gut it out and work hard to get where they are.”
Program access also has been widened. A rejiggered calendar has
allowed FPU to shave six months off its DPT timeline, making the Top: An exterior shot
program a two-year commitment. This summer, it will also move to a of Franklin Pierce in
Goodyear, Ariz. Bottom:
hybrid model, allowing students to enroll without having to relocate to students and instructors
Arizona. in the DPT program in
“By drawing from a larger population, I think we can draw from a Arizona.
more mature population,” says Zook. “People who come from different
backgrounds but can’t necessarily move [here].”
Much of the DPT program’s growing diversity has originated from
Arizona’s rising Hispanic population. But Zook believes the department
can make inroads with other groups as well, including Asian and African
American students.
In addition, Zook also aims to enhance who the department serves.
She’s working to develop a free clinic with a local hospital to give care
to the underserved, and her department is looking to strengthen its
ties with Arizona’s Native American residents. By broadening her
program’s reach, Zook reasons, FPU can help change the face of
American healthcare.
“There’s been a real commitment [at FPU] to looking at its curriculum
to see how we can address [diversity] issues more directly,” says Zook.
“We intend to be a leader in this for the University. That’s something
we’re committed to as a program and as a department.” —Ian Aldrich
12 PIERCE SPRING 2021RAVENINGS
Pierre Morton (left) and Marissa Colcord (right).
University Leaders Modules for Success
Franklin Pierce names Morton, Through a professional partnership with the
Colcord to new strategic roles. City of Manchester, FPU has launched a
F
ranklin Pierce has announced the creation of two new customizable skill program for employees.
I
strategic leadership positions.
After a national search, Pierre Morton was named ncorporating training into the lives of toward expansion to other departments.
the University’s Chief Diversity Officer (CDO). Marissa employees can be time-consuming and One of the primary goals of the program
Colcord was appointed Assistant Vice President (AVP) of expensive for employers. With help is to allow employees to gain the skills
University Communications and Marketing. from Heather LaDue, executive director necessary to be better prepared when it
Since July 2019, Morton had served as executive director of of Franklin Pierce’s Center for comes time for promotions. And since
the Lloyd & Helen Ament Astmann ’69 Career Center at Professional Programs and Partnerships, assessments must be passed in order for
Franklin Pierce. Prior to his arrival, Morton was the assistant the City of Manchester recently badges to be earned, the employer is
director of employer relations at the University of New Haven, partnered with the University to launch a assured that the skills have been mastered.
where he oversaw functions for the Career Development digital badging program aimed at offering “The goal is to develop and hone the
Center. There, he successfully developed strategies to enhance skill development for city employees. skills of your workforce for successful
relationships with employers from diverse organizations. “What we are offering,” says LaDue, “is growth in current positions, potential for
Morton holds an M.B.A. in organizational development from a fully customizable, self-paced, online, growth into new positions, and succession
the University of New Haven and earned his B.S. and A.A.S. in open-enrollment program, where learners planning in management for the years to
human resource management from Albertus Magnus College. can complete competencies to earn come,” explains Karen Poulin, human
He will complete his doctoral program in education at badges in different skill areas.” resources analyst for the City of
Wilmington University later this year. On February 1, the first Manchester Manchester. “This digital badging system
Proposed through the new strategic plan, Pierce@60, the employees began their online sessions. Each provides a skill and development system
CDO reports directly to President Kim Mooney ’83, and module has been developed by a Franklin for employees to work at their own pace,
will be responsible for establishing the Office of Diversity, Pierce faculty or staff member, with develop professionally, and time to ask
Equity, and Inclusion. embedded videos and instructional questions to their supervisors, managers
“Our University community believes that diversity, equity, materials made available via an online and/or department heads to solidify the
and inclusiveness are fundamental to our institutional educational platform built by Coordinator understanding of materials relating to
excellence,” said President Mooney. “Pierre not only of Online Education and Training Stephani their direct division or department. This is
embraces this philosophy, but will also help our community Cuddie, and frequent assessments so those a win-win for both the City of Manchester
cultivate it on a daily basis.” enrolled can track their progress. The and Franklin Pierce University.”
As co-chair of the Strategic Planning Committee and customized program of study created in In setting up professional partnerships,
chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council, the partnership with the City of Manchester such as the badging program with the
CDO also holds responsibility for identifying opportunities includes badges for mastery of: Accounting City of Manchester, LaDue is working to
to achieve institutional DEI goals. Basics for the Non-Accountant; Applicable meet the needs of businesses so the
Colcord, the new AVP of University Communications Field Skills; Applicable Software Skills; University can more easily adjust its
and Marketing, also came to Franklin Pierce in 2019. She Basic Computer Skills; Basic Understanding programs to offer agile certifications that
most recently served as director of marketing. Prior to of the Role of a Manager vs. a Supervisor; will make employers take notice when
arriving in Rindge, Colcord spent the previous seven years at Communication Skills; Office Functions; someone educated at Franklin Pierce –
Heywood Healthcare in Gardner, where she contributed to and Understanding Human Resources Law. whether as an undergraduate, graduate,
marketing, communication, and fundraising planning Once an employee earns all eight badges, he or through a partnership program –
efforts. She holds a B.S. in professional communications or she will receive a certificate in Skills for applies for a job.
from Fitchburg State University. Careers in Management. The cost for all “We’re helping people acquire the
ANDREW CUNNINGHAM
In her new role, Colcord will oversee creation, management, eight badges can be credited toward an skills they need as they rise through the
and execution of all strategic communications and marketing associate’s degree if an employee decides to ranks,” says LaDue. “We’re building
programs and will play a critical role in elevating Franklin pursue continuing education. infrastructure internally to scale this out
Pierce’s presence in New Hampshire and beyond, driving The Manchester program is being and reaching out to expand and build
enrollment and philanthropy efforts for the University. introduced first to employees in the new modules. The sky is the limit.”
—Linda Quimby Department of Public Works, with an eye —Jana F. Brown
SPRING 2021 PIERCE 13RAVENINGS
Top left: the renovated
campus center. Right: the
center before and during
the renovation.
Class Spirit
Alumni from 1969 and 1970 join forces
to donate a legacy gift that will impact
Franklin Pierce students for years to come.
A
key element of completing the Franklin from the Grimshaw-Gudewicz Charitable
Pierce strategic plan, Engage 2016-2020, Foundation, while the Student Government
included continuing the fundamental work Association provided support from its capital budget
of embodying the University’s firm belief in every to purchase furniture to outfit the space. Gifts and
student’s potential and responding to their pledges from alumni and friends to the entire project
expectations for community engagement. totaled $146,531.
In working with members of the Class of 1969 to “I hope the Class of 1969 Pioneer Lounge inspires
develop a legacy project, the Office of University other alumni to participate and get more engaged to
Advancement hosted a gathering of 1969 alumni in support Pierce,” says Trustee Emeritus Lloyd Astmann
Florida, where ideas flowed along with the memories ’69, Hon. ’13. “As students in need of support and
and laughter. Ultimately, class members decided on guidance, Pierce was there when we needed it. Now it
what they would support as their legacy gift; a is our turn to help. I’m thrilled to be involved in a
reimagining of the glass foyer in the Emily Flint project that will benefit the students for years to come
Campus Center, from a simple passageway to a space and allow FPU to use its resources in other ways.” Dan
where students could engage in co-curricular Becker’s wish is that the space will provide enjoyment
activities outside the classroom – including a space for everyone who visits campus.
for potential employers to set up informal Members of the Classes of 1969 and 1970 share
recruitment tables when visiting campus. that their time at Franklin Pierce was special,
Meanwhile, for the first time in its history, the particularly in such turbulent times in the U.S. and
University launched a strategic 50th Reunion Gift the world. Graduates from those years remain a
Campaign project in partnership with a Pioneer Class close-knit group, who maintain lifelong friendships.
to create an enduring legacy. With help from Class of Sansevieri noted it is those bonds that drove class
1969 50th Reunion Gift Campaign Co-chairs Diane members to support the idea of a legacy gift. Parvin
“Dinny” Parvin ’69 and Daniel Sansevieri ’69, the says she hopes her classmates’ love of Pierce will be
Class of 1969 raised more than $100,000. Before contagious, perhaps inspiring other alumni to follow
long, the Class of 1970 joined the effort, seizing the suit with additional legacy gifts.
opportunity for naming rights of a dual-sided fireplace “It will be something that future generations will
in the space. Harold Levy ’70, who co-chaired the be able to see – that there was still class spirit [among
Class of 1970 50th Reunion Gift Campaign with Dan the Pioneer Classes],” says Levy, the Class of 1970
Becker ’70, provided a matching gift challenge, and reunion campaign co-chair, “enough that we could
the class successfully met its 50th reunion gift present this gift to Franklin Pierce University.”
campaign goal. FPU also leveraged an annual gift —Crystal Neuhauser
14 PIERCE SPRING 2021Mental Health Options
Virtual counseling visits are here to stay –
even after the COVID-19 crisis passes.
A
s with just about every aspect of college life, the Center for Counseling and
Outreach Education at Franklin Pierce University has changed how it
operates amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The biggest change is that the center is not currently offering in-person
appointments with counselors. For the time being, all counseling sessions are held
virtually. According to Andrew Lapin, M.S.,M.A., L.C.M.H.C., N.B.C.C., assistant
director of counseling and outreach education, there was initial apprehension about
moving to a virtual counseling operation, but the staff has been surprised by how
well many students have adapted to it.
“It’s really a new kind of way of doing things,” says Lapin. “But, we found that a lot
of people are finding it to be comfortable. It doesn’t feel as clinical. You’re at home.
It feels very relaxed. A lot of students are actually preferring [the virtual sessions],
and they hope to stay that way indefinitely.”
Of course, virtual counseling is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
“There are some students who hate it,” adds Lapin. “There are some students who,
just based on their housing situation, it just doesn’t make sense for them. If you don’t
have the privacy, if you don’t have the place to go and have a session, that can feel
really overwhelming.”
The feedback the Center for Counseling and Outreach Education is getting from
the virtual sessions has led to a change in how the team plans to operate in the
future. Even once they are able to resume in-person sessions, the virtual sessions will
not be going away.
“Our plan, once everything is ‘normal,’ is that there will be in-person availability;
there will be someone on site every day of the week,” Lapin says. “And there’s going
to be another two [counselors] available virtually. So, it’s going to skew more toward
the virtual model, just because we’re finding more students do like it, and more
students are keeping their appointments.”
During the pandemic, the counseling center has begun working with graduate
interns for the first time. Lapin notes how beneficial it has been to have a member of
the staff who is less-removed from his or her own college experience than some of
the full-time counselors.
“We’re finding that having students who have some counseling experience, but are
also students, it feels very validating for all the people coming to us,” he says. “It feels
like, ‘Okay, you get it, you’re in school, you understand right now what all these
ANDREW CUNNINGHAM
challenges are.’ We’re finding that, by having a couple of interns on our staff, our
student body is feeling able to relate a little bit more to their counselors.”
Whether conducting sessions in person or virtually, Lapin and the rest of the
Center for Counseling and Outreach Education staff remain committed to
supporting the mental health of Franklin Pierce students through the pandemic, and
helping them find long-term care solutions. —Matt Janik
SPRING 2021 PIERCE 15We’ve had to shift all of our training outside and have had to remain in groups of nine, with 10 feet between each person. — JAVIER RAMIREZ
RAVENS ROUNDUP
Masks and Distance
Raven student-athletes adjust to a
semester of modified practices.
T
he coronavirus pandemic has for defense, while the volleyball team
changed the way the world practices in groups of six.
operates, and that translates “Our coaches are having to work
directly into the world of college sports. really hard to put drills together for all
With no competition in the fall or of our practices since they have to fit the
winter, and physical restrictions put in new guidelines,” says volleyball player
place to keep people safe, athletic Britney Loyd ’23.
practices and conditioning at Franklin Despite the challenges, the current
Pierce have looked drastically different. situation has brought many teams
In order to participate, Raven together in unconventional ways. Field
student-athletes must remain socially hockey player Christine Jarowicz ’23
distanced, limit contact, and train in says she and her teammates have leaned
smaller groups than usual, which has on each other for support, which has
created unexpected challenges. The yielded even greater team bonding. The
rowing team cannot go out on the water, field hockey team has found creative
runners must distance themselves ways to stay together while remaining
instead of running in packs, and partner socially distant, including outings on
exercises are no longer possible. kayaks and paddleboards.
“We’ve had to shift all of our training While the pandemic has forced teams
outside and have had to remain in to change how their practices are run,
groups of nine, with 10 feet between Ramirez shares that some of the new
each person,” says Javier Ramirez, the training tactics may stick around
University’s head strength and beyond the pandemic. That includes
conditioning coach. “We’re requiring plyometric work.
our student athletes to wear a mask As difficult as the lack of competition
while training, unless it is during intense has been for student-athletes, they have
training, where we instruct them to proven resilient, even in the midst of
space even more.” such unexpected times. They also have
As the Department of Athletics gained important perspective on their
progresses through its return to play situation.
phases, it has taken time for teams to “We must appreciate the fact that
be cleared for indoor workouts, with we’re just missing some of the college
MEGHAN STOKES ’23
social distancing becoming even more experience, while others in the world
crucial. Full practices are not yet lose relatives and jobs,” says men’s soccer
possible for many teams, and drills player Yanai Sayag ’22. “I’m personally
cannot be run in the same way as in the grateful for the opportunity to be here.”
past. The lacrosse team has to use cones —Samantha Norwood ’23
SPRING 2021 PIERCE 17RAVENS ROUNDUP
Behind the Lens
Alison Palma ’17 has combined her love of Associate Athletic Director Jeanette McKillop (left) and
Director of Athletics Rachel Burleson (right).
sports and photography in her role covering
women’s professional golf.
Career
A Advancement
lison Palma ’17 used her love rewarding to watch Ali grow over her
for photography and her time in Rindge, and I’m so proud to
communications degree to
shape her career after Franklin Pierce.
watch how she’s gone on to represent
our department since her graduation.”
FPU athletic administrators
Now a tour media official for the While basketball and photography participate in NCAA Mentoring
Program for women.
Ladies Professional Golf Association’s both played large roles in Palma’s time
Symetra Tour, Palma got her start in at Franklin Pierce, when she thinks
I
photography when she bought her first about her time as a Raven, what stands
camera in high school. out is how it has inspired her even t is widely known that the balance of men to women
“We’d take it to random places,” she beyond her time at the University. employed in the sports industry is disproportionately
says, “and I just fell in love with taking “The community of sports, as well as male.
pictures.” how involved the people who aren’t The NCAA Division II Athletic Directors Association’s
Her affinity for photography athletes are, it felt like a family,” Palma (D2ADA) Athletic Director Mentoring Program seeks to
followed her to Rindge, where she spent says. “That really set the tone for what I improve this imbalance. The program pairs young women
four seasons as a member of the Ravens wanted to see beyond my time at and other underrepresented groups seeking careers in
women’s basketball program. What Franklin Pierce.” collegiate athletic administration with those who have
began as a hobby of taking pictures of After her graduation, Palma found experience, with a goal of providing them with guidance
her friends’ games ultimately turned herself back in her hometown, working and enhancing their ability to be successful in the field.
into a job as a student photographer in with the Stamford (Conn.) Peace Youth Franklin Pierce has not one representative in the
the Athletic Communication Office. Foundation as a communications program this year, but two. It marks the first time in the
“It’s always exciting when we get to assistant and basketball coach. The D2ADA program’s history that two women from the
see alums from our office move on and Foundation helps provide access to same college are simultaneously enrolled. Associate
go into the sports media profession,” sports for underprivileged kids. Athletic Director Jeanette McKillop is a mentee, while
says Matt Janik, assistant athletic Following her time in Stamford, Palma Director of Athletics Rachel Burleson, M.B.A. ’20 is a
director for communication. “It was started her career in golf as an intern mentor, though each is paired with women from other
with the American Junior Golf institutions. Mentors like Burleson work with their
Association, where her early training mentees year-round, offering modeling and guidance.
involved learning the rules of golf when Meanwhile, mentees such as McKillop attend monthly
she was put in the unfamiliar role of webinars and participate in programming intended to
working as a rules official. That part of advance their careers in athletic administration.
the job was unexpected, but ultimately “The program covers many topics necessary for any
helped her better understand the sport AD to understand,” explains Burleson, a mentee in the
she was covering. program in 2013-14. “That includes leadership,
“If I hadn’t had that experience with networking, situational problem-solving, and much more.
the AJGA,” says Palma, “I wouldn’t be When I was [a mentee], it was eye-opening,”
here at the LPGA.” One of the biggest advantages of participation in the
In her current work with the Symetra program is that it provides a wider network, connecting
Tour of the LPGA, Palma does like-minded individuals in the vast NCAA. McKillop
everything from interviewing golfers to considers herself fortunate to have Bloomfield College (N.J.)
posting on social media to driving Athletic Director Sheila Wooten as her mentor, but she also
around in a golf cart to capture pictures benefits from her day-to day interactions with Burleson. On
and videos of the events. The Symetra the flip side, Burleson relishes her role as mentor – both to
Tour is the second tier of professional her official D2ADA mentee and to McKillop.
Alison Palma ’17 women’s golf in the United States, with “My goal is to get them prepared and comfortable for the
behind the lens.
top players graduating to the LPGA next step in their careers,” says Burleson, “even if that is just
Tour. —Ezra Gennello ’22 growing within their current roles.” —Samantha Norwood ’23New Perspective, Same Goals
Caitlin Sweeney ’18 and Marykate Cullinane ’19
make the transition from student-athletes to coaches Caitlin Sweeney ’18 (left) and Marykate Cullinane ’19
of the programs for which they once competed. (right).
H
eading into her final season with the “I always knew I wanted to coach,” she says, spent the 2019-20 season as an assistant coach
Ravens women’s lacrosse team as one “and this just validated those feelings and made at Franklin Pierce.
of the nation’s leading goal scorers, me fall more in love with the game at the “Being the assistant coach allowed me to see
Caitlin Sweeney ’18 had two aspirations. The college level.” the ins and outs of the team,” Cullinane
first was for the team to succeed and the This spring, Sweeney returns to Franklin explains. “I learned a lot about how different it
second was to help steer the program into a Pierce as head coach of the women’s lacrosse is when you are coaching.”
prosperous direction. program she led as a player only two years ago. A three-year captain for the program,
“I had such an amazing experience at Pierce,” Her goal for the upcoming campaign is to Cullinane says she gained some level of
says Sweeney, the second-highest point-scorer make a statement in the NE-10. understanding of how the team was run. Now
in FPU women’s lacrosse history. “It truly is a “It’s a dream to be back at Pierce, that she is in her first year as head coach, her
special environment.” coaching a team I have so much passion perspective is only continuing to grow.
After graduation, Sweeney, who majored in for,” Sweeney says. Although she returns in a different position,
sports and recreation management, went on to Sweeney is not the only former Raven her goals as a coach are similar to those she set
serve as a graduate assistant coach at Lincoln making her debut at the coaching ranks with as a member of the team.
Memorial University in Harrogate, Tenn. Franklin Pierce this season. Rower Marykate “Our long-term goal is to make it to the
While earning her master’s in marketing, she Cullinane ’19 has returned to Rindge to guide NCAAs,” she says. “But, as a coach, I am
was also able to gain valuable coaching the women’s rowing team. After graduating always looking forward to my team growing
experience at the fellow Division II institution. with a a B.A. in educational studies, Cullinane and becoming better.” —Lily Collins ’22
FPU ATHLETICS (CULLINANE); ALISON PALMA ’17; ANDREW CUNNINGHAM (BURLESON); DAN FORGET (MCKILLOP)
Better Together
Franklin Pierce teammates push each other
MEG STOKES ’23 (COED SPORTS); LINCOLN MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS (SWEENEY);
to new heights, regardless of gender.
A
thletic teams are often more like grateful his mixed group has remained intact.
families. In Raven Nation, the family Like Everidge, tennis player Jillian Pagliuca
dynamic extends beyond the male and ’23 appreciates the opportunity to practice Left-to-right: football’s Morgan Smith ’23, track & field’s
Connor Everidge ’23, and tennis player Jillian Pagliuca ’23.
female teams, as several Franklin Pierce and train with her men’s tennis counterparts.
programs offer coeducational experiences. “Playing with the men’s team raises my level
“Everyone is there to push one another to be of performance,” Pagliuca says. other,” Bishop says, “they would want to win
better,” says Connor Everidge ’23, a thrower for Bragging rights foster friendly competition and be the better team.”
the FPU track and field program. between the student-athletes at Franklin Pierce. Placekicker Morgan Smith ’22 is in the
Everidge has been impressed by the work the The playful banter and competitive spirit allows distinct position of being the only woman on
track and field coaches have done to incorporate athletes to improve their abilities, while having the Franklin Pierce football team. To ease the
training that benefits both the program’s male fun. Even in golf, where the men and women transition, the Ravens football coaches made it
and female athletes. The throwers are a practice and compete separately, the closeness of clear from day one that Smith belonged on the
particularly close-knit unit, as Everidge works the two teams is evident as they push each other team just as much as any of the male players.
closely with the women on the team. While the to improve. Head coach Tyler Bishop enjoys “Gender has never been an issue,” says Smith,
track and field team has long practiced in a coed watching the athletes encourage one another. noting the welcoming environment. “I compete
environment, the ongoing COVID-19 “They are always cheering for each other to with the guys on the team just like everyone
pandemic has forced many groups to split up succeed and play well in tournaments. But, if else. When I’m practicing, I’m not a girl, I’m a
practices by gender to reduce size. Everidge is given the chance to compete against each football player.” —Samantha Norwood ’23
SPRING 2021 PIERCE 19A
W TERSHED
PL AN
Environmental Sciences Professor
Dr. Catherine Koning is part of a team
monitoring and improving the water quality
of Pearly Pond to preserve the natural
beauty of Franklin Pierce for the future.
BY MATT JANIK PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANDREW CUNNINGHAM
One of the most attractive qualities of
Franklin Pierce University is its idyllic, rural
New England setting.
“Nestled between Mount Monadnock and
Pearly Pond, Franklin Pierce is a picturesque college
setting, located in Rindge, New Hampshire,”
reads the “Visit Us” page on the University’s
website. “Our campus has 1,200 acres of land for
adventure,” reads the page highlighting one of
the region’s more ambitious campus recreation
programs. You can’t turn around on the Rindge
campus without another Instagram-worthy vista
smacking you square in the face.
But, what are the effects of maintaining a
community of 1,400 students – not to mention
faculty and staff – amid all the gorgeous
panoramas? How is Franklin Pierce interacting
with – and altering – the local ecosystem? How can
we make sure the “picturesque college setting”
remains in Rindge for generations to follow?
Dr. Catherine Koning and class
explore the “pond lab.”
Note: Photos of students, faculty, and staff not wearing masks were taken prior to the pandemic.
SPRING 2021 PIERCE 21A W TERSHED PLAN
Enter Dr. Catherine Koning. A professor in the higher in phosphorous and nitrogen than the natural ecosystem
Environmental Sciences Department at Franklin Pierce, could handle.”
Koning is focused on one specific aspect of that ecosystem: The result is something called “residual phosphorous,” which
monitoring and improving the water quality of Pearly Pond might make a great name for a punk-rock band, but more
and the local watershed. In conjunction with Comprehensive accurately describes the long-term interactions of these excess
Environmental Incorporated and the Pearly Pond Association, nutrients with the environment.
and with funding from the New Hampshire Department of “For 40 years, those wetlands did their best to take in the
Environmental Services, Koning is one of the architects behind nutrients, and they do fine with nitrogen, but they don’t do
the Pearly Pond Watershed Restoration Plan, a 10-year capital well with phosphorous,” says Koning. “So, they’re continuing
improvement blueprint, running from 2015 to 2024, with the to release that phosphorous into the lake. They call it historical,
goal of lowering phosphorous levels in the watershed. residual phosphorous, sitting in the wetlands, and the wetlands
Why exactly is phosphorous a problem? It’s not, in and of are kind of like, ‘Well, we were picking it up, and now we’re
itself. All bodies of water contain some level of phosphorous. giving it back.’”
The problems arise when there’s too much phosphorous. To The undertakings to control the phosphorous levels are as
simplify, excess phosphorous in the watershed feeds algae diverse as the ecosystem itself. Some solutions are high-tech,
blooms. Algae can release toxins into the water. At high enough such as enhanced filtration and other upgrades to the wastewater
levels, these toxins can be harmful to local domestic animals, system. Some solutions are low-tech, such as using Border
livestock, wildlife, and humans. Decomposing algae also Collies to help control the goose population, since goose
removes oxygen from the water, which increases the relative droppings are also a source of phosphorous. Actions as simple as
amount of phosphorous, creating a feedback loop which can picking up litter before it can get into the water – or simply not
lead to even more intense algae blooms and so on. littering in the first place – are helpful.
Where does the excess phosphorous in Pearly Pond come A big part of the process is educating the local community
from? That’s where Franklin Pierce comes in. and working together with the others who live in the Pearly
In 2009, the University made multi-million-dollar Pond watershed to help manage the improved situation. Dick
improvements to its wastewater treatment plant, bringing Isakson and Bob Scribner are two members of the Pearly
it up-to-date with the ever-evolving specifications and
regulations regarding how such facilities interact with the
local environment. However, the Pearly Pond watershed is
still dealing with the effects of pre-2009 operations, when Below: Dr. Catherine Koning and students in class beside the pond
prior to the pandemic. Right: Koning tests the pond water in her lab.
regulations weren’t as stringent.
Above right: a sample of Pearly Pond water.
“For 40 years,” explains Koning, “it was discharging the
treated wastewater, which was clean and clear and drinkable, butYou can also read
