Class Notes
February 2025
Awards & Accomplishments
Susheela Nemani-Stanger '98 was announced a winner on the Pittsburgh Business Times, Power 100 list this year.Â
Career News
- Cheyanne R. Crum '18 was recruited by the New Orleans Police Department in New Orleans, Louisiana in December 2020. She has recently been seen on the television show Homicide Squad: New Orleans on the A&E channel.
- John Melody '90, co-owner of Erie’s U Pick 6 establishments, Bay House Oyster Bar & Restaurant, and Pier 6 Rooftop Bar & Restaurant, Melody reflects on the challenges and triumphs of the restaurant industry. Despite the hardships brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, he remains optimistic about the future, emphasizing the power of community, support, and the anticipation of Erie's vibrant summer season. Melody underscores the importance of dedication, unwavering belief in one’s vision, and the critical role of staff and service in achieving success. He takes great pride in contributing to the local community and delivering exceptional dining experiences every day.
Alumni Deaths
- Kristine M. (Monroe) McAndrew '67
- Linda Ann (Cotter) Grippe '66
- Michael C. Faycheck '86
- Judith Pitney, Ph.D. '67Â
January 2025
Awards & Accomplishments
- Dr. Don Gibbon ‘86, from Indiana, PA, recently competed in the INBA-PNBA Natural Olympia in Las Vegas on Nov. 8-9. He won the amateur Grand Master (50+) category, earning the title of amateur world champion, and placed fourth in his professional debut in the same category. At age 60, Dr. Gibbon returned to bodybuilding in 2023 after a 35-year hiatus, during which he competed in triathlons and endurance events. Read the full story here.
- Brent Scarpo '84 has achieved a significant milestone with the release of his book, The Red Balloon – Transforming Your Life One Inspirational Story at a Time, after a decade of writing. The book is now available for purchase at , with partial proceeds benefiting the Betty Scarpo Scholarship at ÈÕº«ÂÒÂ×.
- John Langer ‘95, president of H. Jack's Plumbing & Heating Co., has made a significant impact through his dedication to community support and philanthropy. Partnering with organizations like the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, his efforts have provided over 500,000 meals to those in need. He has also appeared on HGTV's Celebrity IOU, showcasing his commitment to giving back locally.
- Kali Beutler '22 received the LocalEdge 2024 President's Circle Award for her outstanding work as a social media account manager. She was recognized for building strong client relationships, exceeding campaign expectations, and mentoring peers.
- Grace Knopfel ‘23 and Jared Camp ‘24 were recognized for their outstanding contributions during internships at Carnegie Mellon University's Software Engineering Institute (SEI). Their efforts were instrumental in CMU receiving the prestigious Jack Donnelly Award for Excellence in Counterintelligence.
Career News
Rita Bajura '63 was honored for her pioneering leadership as the first Director of the National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), the research arm of the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management. At a celebration on December 5, marking 25 years of NETL's accomplishments and growth, Mrs. Bajura shared reflections on her tenure alongside her successors.
Marriages & Engagements
Congratulations to Amelia Kraus '19 and '18 and Ryan Dombkowski '15, who were married on Nov. 2, 2024, at Christ the King Chapel at ÈÕº«ÂÒÂ× University.
Births
Tim Gilbert '17 and Sarah (Creighton) Gilbert ‘16 welcomed their first child, a baby girl, Alzie Rose Gilbert on Nov. 24, 2024.
Alumni Deaths
- Marlene (Del Canton) Lucas '59
- Marsha Fronzaglia ‘83
- Martin Pushchak ‘05
Condolences
Condolences to Austin M. Shinhearl '18 on the passing of his mother, Kathreen Shinhearl.