The Pennsylvania Environmental Resource Consortium (PERC) has named Mary Ann Smith, lecturer of biology at Penn State Schuylkill, as a 2025 Campus Sustainability Champion. This prestigious award honors individuals in Pennsylvania’s higher education community who have made significant contributions to environmental, social and economic sustainability.
Kyle Kaminski, a double major in cybersecurity and criminal justice, has embraced leadership and campus involvement at Penn State Schuylkill. As president of the Criminal Justice Club, founder of the Winter Sports Club and a key force behind intramural sports, he has worked to enhance student engagement. His research on artificial intelligence in global law enforcement, along with internships in law enforcement and cybersecurity, showcases his commitment to bridging both fields and preparing for a dynamic career.
This March, nine Penn State Schuylkill students presented original research at the Eastern Communication Association’s (ECA) James C. McCroskey and Virginia P. Richmond Undergraduate Scholars Conference. Under the guidance of Valerie Schrader, professor of communication arts and sciences, these students, along with one University Park student, presented 21 individual research projects and received several recognitions.
Kaely Walshaw, a dedicated student-athlete at Penn State Schuylkill, has balanced her leadership roles in academics, athletics and research while pursuing her passion for medicine. As the president of Tri-Beta, captain of the softball team, and a participant in undergraduate research, she has developed discipline, accountability and leadership skills.
Margo DelliCarpini, Penn State vice president for Commonwealth Campuses and executive chancellor, will be leaving the University effective June 30 to take on a new position as the provost and vice president for Academic Affairs at the College of New Jersey.
Coming from a large high school with a graduating class of over 850 students, Arabi Chavira wanted a smaller setting when selecting her college. Chavira said that Penn State Schuylkill was more cost-effective, safely located, and provides a family community. Little did Chavira know at the time that she had made the right choice in the planning phase of her journey.
Penn State Schuylkill students, faculty, staff and alumni recently created "Thumbs of a Thriving Community," a collaborative art piece now displayed in the Student Community Center. Featuring hundreds of colorful thumbprints, the artwork symbolizes the campus’ unity, diversity and resilience. Designed by Gianna Agnello-Porambo and supported by Lisa Robinson, Megan Murray, Kacey Harper and Interim Chancellor Cory Scherer, the piece serves as a lasting reminder of Schuylkill’s strong and vibrant community.
Tiffany Bohner, a child psychology major with double minors in communications, reflects on her journey at Penn State Schuylkill, where she embraced every opportunity to grow academically and personally. As a student-athlete, club leader and researcher, she credits faculty mentors for shaping her success, particularly through her award-winning research on book bans and her internship at the Schuylkill County Courthouse. Bohner cherishes the close-knit campus community and friendships she formed, emphasizing that Penn State Schuylkill provided her with invaluable experiences that will stay with her for a lifetime.
The Penn State Schuylkill community dedicated a memorial bench across from the Business Building to honor Kelly Ann Gemmell, a beloved colleague known for her kindness and dedication. Family, friends and colleagues gathered to celebrate her life, recognizing her profound impact as the manager of the Barnes & Noble bookstores at Penn State Schuylkill and Penn State Hazleton. Inscribed with “Choose Kindness,” the bench serves as a lasting tribute to her warmth, generosity, and unwavering support for students and faculty.
