To add your alumni profile to this list, please complete the alumni survey which can be found as a link on the University of Scranton Environmental Science home page  http://forms.scranton.edu/environmental-science-alumni-survey-form/ 
Some alumni have given permission for their contact information to be released.  If you would like to obtain contact information on any of the alumni listed below, please contact Michael Cann at michael.cann@scranton.edu

John Anthony
2008 graduate 
Geologist
Maryland Department of Environment
Baltimore, MD

          The Environmental Science curriculum at the University of Scranton was fairly rigorous and very comprehensive. I feel that it adequately prepared me for post-graduate life- both professionally and personally. The summer before my senior year, I was awarded a National Science Foundation Research Experience for Undergraduates Internship with the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center in Maryland. I spent the summer conducting a personal research project on blue crab fisheries stock enhancement which I presented to the Smithsonian community upon completion. My comprehensive background in hard sciences from the University enabled me to secure this internship and complete it successfully. I feel that my overall experience at Scranton provided me with a solid academic foundation for entry into the job market.

          After graduation, I secured a position with the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Fisheries Service as a Biologist in the Blue Crab Program located in Stevensville, Maryland. I worked daily aboard our research vessel taking population data for the State of Maryland's two major blue crab population surveys: The Summer Trawl and the Winter Dredge. These long-term surveys are used to track tends in overall blue crab abundance as well as trends in crab characteristics such as carapace width and weight. In addition, I worked aboard local commercial fishing vessels collecting catch data and assisting the Watermen. Currently, I am a Geologist with the Maryland Department of the Environemnt (MDE) in Baltimore, Maryland. I analyze and issue State Water Appropriation and Use Permits which seek to withdrawal water for municipal, industrial, and agricultural use. I have received water sampling training, excel training, and an EPA Hydrologic Flow Model training on the job. 

Paul Bechtel 
2000 graduate 
Environmental Coordinator 
Lackawanna Senior Environment Corps 
Scranton, PA

          Paul is currently enrolled in the Graduate School for Arts and Sciences at Fordham University in New York City. He is working toward a Master’s in Biology with an Ecology Concentration. He is in the process of declaring his thesis topic. He is attending Fordham University full-time on a Presidential Scholarship and he has been awarded a Teaching Assistantship for Freshmen Biology Labs.

          Since graduating in 2000, Paul has had a number of experiences and jobs including: 
-Volunteered with Earthwatch, fall 2001, and studied Leatherback Sea Turtles for two weeks in Costa Rica before looking for a job. 

-His main full-time job was as the Environmental Coordinator for the Voluntary Action Center and the Lackawanna River Corridor Association (non-profit organizations (2001-2004). Non Profits are great for networking and grass-roots environmental work. 

-As a supplement to the non-profit salary and to build further skills before entering graduate school, he worked at the following

-Project Manager for AquaTech Incorporation, Mountaintop, PA. Completed a Lake Management study and Lake Monitoring (bacterial, physiochemical, biological) (2003); Temporary Lab Technician at EcoScientific Solutions, Scranton PA, working in the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Laboratory with Pseudoscymnus tsugse, a biological control species (2003); He obtained a certificate in Wetland Delineation from Rutgers University, Cook College (2002); and worked as a Wetland Delineator for McLane and Associates a Landscape Architectural firm in Scranton, PA. (2004). 

     While at the University of Scranton, Paul performed an internship with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, working directly under the Region 3 Director, Mr. William McDonnell (also a graduate of the University of Scranton), in Wilkes-Barre, PA.  Paul was an active member of the Environmentally Concerned Organization, often helping to plan and execute events.  One of his major roles in ECO was the off-campus recycling program.  Paul was also one of the hearty souls who braved the cold waters of Lake Henry during the fall and spring outings at Dr. Cann's house.  You can see his picture here.  He is in the second picture on the left hand side freezing with Matt Stadler. 

Jason R. Bohenek 
2012 graduate 
PhD Student
The UM Field Station 
The University of Mississippi 
Abbeville, MS

          As of April 2015, Jason is enrolled in a PhD program in the Biology Department at Ole Miss. He is studying aquatic ecology, in particular the influence of chemical cues on salamander development and life history choice.

Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
PhD student in Department of Biological Sciences 2012-2014

The University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS
PhD student in Department of Biology 2014-Current

Research Experience, Outreach and Professional Services
Research Assistant to Dr. William J. Resetarits Jr. 2012-current
The Shaw Institute for Field Training (SIFT) NSF-Supported Program 2013
Reviewer for Amphibia-Reptilia 2013

Poster Presentations
Bohenek JR, Druther K, Smith R (2012) “The Effects of Invasive Shrubs in Early Successional Habitats on Migratory Birds.” Twelfth Annual Celebration of Student Scholars. The University of Scranton, Scranton, PA

Bohenek JR & Resetarits WJ Jr. (2013) “Search for Proximate Environmental Cues of Polyphenism in Facultatively Paedomorphic Newts.” Texas Tech Annual Biological Sciences Symposium. Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX

Eveland LL, Bohenek JR, Silberbush A & Resetarits WJ Jr. (2014) The effects of different aquatic predators on mosquito oviposition site choice. International Society for Chemical Ecology - Chemical Signals in Vertebrates meeting (ISCE-CSiV); July 8-12; Urbana-Champaign, IL.

Oral Presentations
Bohenek, JR (2012) “A Comparative Analysis of Nietzsche’s Will to Power and Darwin’s Natural Selection Theory.” Phi Sigma Tau, Penn-Tau Chapter Forum. The University of Scranton, Scranton, PA

 Bohenek JR, Eveland LL & Resetarits WJ Jr. (2014) The influence of newts (Notophthalmus viridescens louisianensis) on oviposition site choice of mosquitoes. Joint Meeting of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists; July 30-Aug 3; Chattanooga, TN.

Publications
Bohenek JR (2013) “A Comparative Analysis of Nietzsche’s Will to Power and Darwin’s Natural Selection Theory.” Annual Undergraduate Philosophy Journal Discourse at the University of Scranton

Eveland LL, Bohenek JR, Silberbush A & Resetarits WJ Jr. (2015) Detection of Fish and Newt Kairomones by Ovipositing Mosquitoes. Chemical Signals in Vertebrates 13 (accepted)

The University of Scranton, Scranton PA 2008-2012
-Major Philosophy 2011
-Major Environmental Science 2012
-Major Biology 2012

Awards
Academic All-American Nomination 2010
Sarah Beth Beynon Memorial Scholarship, Scranton Area Foundation 2011
Two-time Landmark Conference Fall All-Academic Team 2010- 2011
Landmark Conference Senior Scholar-Athlete 2011
Dean’s List 2008-2012
Fall Landmark Conference Academic Honor Roll 2009-2011

Research Experience, Outreach and Professional Services
Research Assistant to Dr. Robert Smith 2011
Research Assistant to Dr. Vincent Marshall 2012

Brian Brozovic 
1998 graduate 
Process Technician 
Corning INC 
Corning, NY

          When Brian left the University, he worked as an environmental/chemical laboratory technician with NYESG Environmental Laboratories.  His duties included QA/QC chemical analysis (Sulfates, Metals, Chlorine, Oils...) of environmental waste water samples from NYSEG plants through the use EPA wet chemical techniques and instrumental analysis (FE/AA/ICPMS).

          Brian then was employed by Proctor and Gamble Pharmaceuticals in North Norwich, NY as a quality assurance chemist/research technician.  His work included QA/QC testing of drug product stability (shelf life tests) samples and QA testing of incoming raw materials through HPLC, MS and dissolution baths.

          Brian then moved up to a position as Analytical Laboratory Services Coordinator at Corning Incorporated, in Corning, NY. His job included acting as an interface between external Corning customers and internal Corning scientists/engineers while coordinating the sale, sample flow, and results of a large variety of laboratory analysis services (~20 labs).

          Still moving up the ladder, Brain is now a process technician with Corning.  As a member of the QA team working for Corning's North American Optical division,  he works in a chemistry lab providing quality control for raw materials and final products (photochromic monomer) using spectrophotometer, viscosity, turbidity, HPLC, Karl Fisher, Refractive Index (to name a few) testing.....to support POLLUX (project name) manufacturing.  Because this endeavor is still in a project status, it allows for occasional R&D work developing new monomer compositions for better lens performance (the monomer is sold to customers who cast the material into plastic photochromic lenses). This work is done in conjunction with Corning's main R&D facility in Fountableu, France to develop new generations of the product.  Brian has also gained some chemical engineering experience, working with the project engineer, while learning to operate and troubleshoot the process system equipment that Brian, in a very important way, still utilizes his environmental interests and expertise by acting as the safety/health, environmental officer for his project.  In that role he is responsible for monthly inspections, safety/environmental training of employees, and overall compliance for the project area (i.e. waste stream profile, hazardous waste disposal, maintaining MSDS, enforcing PPE).

          Brian has returned to school taking online classes through NTU to obtain a master’s in chemical engineering.

          While at Scranton Brian, performed his internship with Cornell Cooperative Extension and the Ross Park Zoo both in Binghamton, NY.  At the cooperative extension, Brian assisted with educational programs related to solid waste management and water quality.  At the zoo, he was involved in the daily feeding and care of the animals, and assisting the veterinarian on his rounds. 

Molly L. Calderone                         
2013 Graduate
Environmental Planner
McCormick Taylor, Inc.            
Philadelphia, PA

          Upon graduation, Molly connected with another Scranton Environmental Science alum - Paul Bechtel who works in Scranton at a landscape architecture firm. Paul assisted her by taking Molly along on fieldwork - showing the ropes so to speak - and allowing her to gain valuable experiences which included the writing of technical reports.

          In June of 2014, Molly took a position at McCormick Taylor, a full service environmental and engineering consulting firm located in Philadelphia. Initially she was hired as an administrative assistant, but also to gain experience in the environmental field. In her first few months she worked on wetland delineation projects, and assisted in technical report writing. In February 2015, she transitioned into her current role as an Environmental Planner.  She works in the Special Projects Group, whose main focus is to work with utility companies.

          During her years at Scranton, Molly was actively involved in LIVA Arts Company - both performing in shows and working behind the scenes.

          Her Academic Achievements include:
-Induction into the Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society in her freshman year
-Excellence in Environmental Science Award
-Graduated magna cum laude
-Minored in psychology

          She completed her senior research project with Michael Hardisky, Ph.D. which involved designing a research hypothesis and project focused on methane flux in cattail marshes. Through this, she gained experience in fieldwork and utilizing different research methodologies. She presented her results at the University's Celebration of Student Scholars symposium in the spring of her senior year (2013).

Paul Curtis
1999 graduate 
GIS Analyst
Terra Data LLC
Boston, MA

          While at Scranton he did an internship with Natureworks Clear Water Associates performing water chemistry on water bodies and treating non-native plant and algae species.

          Paul worked as analytical chemist for nine years in hazardous waste, specialty chemical, and the biotech/pharmaceutical industries. He started as PCB analyst working on a GC and picked up other instrumental analysis techniques, such as HPLC, AA, and TOC, as a Quality Control Analyst. In 2011, he completed a graduate degree in Geographic Information Science (GIS) at Salem State University in MA where he learned to create digital maps with geospatial data and analyze satellite imagery. He interned with the Army Corps of Engineers in Ohio at Paint Creek Lake and at MIT's Facilities Department. He has contracted with National Grid to digitize gas lines and created bathymetric maps of lakes for Navionics,Inc. Currently, he is a GIS Analyst with Terra Data LLC in Boston where they identify real estate investment opportunities for clients. 

Aaron A. Davis
1998 graduate 
Quality Control Analyst/Lab Technician 
Maxum Petroleum a part of Pilot Thomas Logistics
Long Beach, CA

          With his diploma in hand, Aaron spent a summer in an internship with Quaker Chemical Corporation, Conshohocken, PA. He learned about the treatment storage and disposal of hazardous waste, health and safety of those working with such substances, maintaining records, SDS's (Safety Data Sheets), performing site inspection reports, and the infrastructure of a corporation  This would become the starting point to an exciting career with unlimited possibilities.

          One of which was the offer to move to California as the Environmental Health and Safety Representative for Omni Machine Corporation. In this position Aaron worked alongside skilled, beyond belief, machinists supplying bushings and bearings to the aerospace industry. Being around laths, mills, J n L's, and many other types of heavy equipment with moving parts was a great experience which he will always be grateful for.

          Responding to an opening seeking someone with an industrial background and environmentally conscious, added a Certified California Underground Storage Tank Inspectors License to his resume. Working for Praxair, Inc. with a new technology called Tracer Research, he traveled from gas station to gas station locating leaks in pipes 10 feet underground. The primary tools that he worked with were helium detectors, Tracer, a GC, F-350 Diesel truck, maps, and a hotel room.

          Aaron then worked for the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California located in the heart of Los Angeles, as an Environmental Specialist. Working on-site at the Venice pumping station, he assisted with the daunting task of bringing on line an underground hydro-electric generator. This involved traveling from the Jensen Water Treatment Facility, to The Wadsworth Dam and everywhere in between. Aaron states he “truly loved this position!”

          Aaron was then the mainstay at the QA/QC lab for General Petroleum’s marine cylinder oil blend plant which allowed him to work hands on and directly impact the reduction of friction and prevent engine wear thus improving the fuel economy and reducing emissions from global trade.

          Aaron states that the “best days of my life were spent earning my Bachelor’s of Science, Environmental Science degree at the U! The curriculum has provided me with an opportunity to live and learn and grow! Earth will thank you for embarking upon a life long journey striving for man-kinds success and will power to carry on, protect, and provide for us all!  I often find myself referencing subject matter learned from my Global Bio-Geochemical Cycles, Environmental Chemistry, and Ecology classes!  Many thanks goes out to all my professors!”

          “Finding my Father’s name, Dr. James W. Davis, on the page titled Acknowledgements in the 2nd edition of the Lubrication Engineers Manual from the Association of Iron and Steel Technology; I knew how I got to where I am today! Whom by the way is a native Scrantonian and an Alumni  '65.  Thank you Dad, and love you with all my heart, Peace.”

Devin DeMarco
2000 graduate 
Coordinator: Environmental Health & Safety 
OMG Fidelity 
Newark, NJ

          Following graduation from the University, Devin received an administrative internship with the Northeast Pennsylvania Region of the Department of Environmental Protection. In this program he circulated amongst various regulatory departments and was fortunate enough to spend much of his time with the Regional Director, Mr. William McDonnell (a University of Scranton graduate). Toward the end of the summer, he received a position with the Environmental Health & Safety department within OMG Fidelity, Inc., located in Newark, NJ. OMG Fidelity is a subsidiary of OM Group, Inc., and is a worldwide leader in the production of metal salts, plating chemistry and even catalytic converters. His position has evolved to the point where he currently manages all aspects of environmental & OSHA regulations, product stewardship, hazardous waste, waste treatment, air permits, stormwater, site remediation, responsible care, recycling, raining, discharge prevention and employee health. Devin stated "I believe this is an excellent field for myself at this time, because I’m exposed to so many facets that affect environmental health."  In addition, he is currently working toward an M.S. in Environmental Policy at the New Jersey Institute of Technology and he has an interest with the Chemical Industry Council of New Jersey and Bergen County Emergency Medical Service Training Center.

          While at the University of Scranton, Devin performed an internship in the Environmental and Safety Department of Schott Glass Technologies, Duryea, PA.  Devin was also an active member of the Environmentally Concerned Organization and served as Student Government Vice President. 

Brian Eberhardt 
2000 graduate 
High School Teacher 
Toms River High School 
North Toms River, NJ

          After graduation, Brian worked for two years at PMK Group. This company is an Environmental Consulting Firm located in Farmingdale, New Jersey.  Brian worked with both the private and public sectors assisting in air/water permitting and health/safety programs.  Brian helped a Scranton Environmental Science major obtain an internship with the PMK Group during the summer of 2002.

          In September 2002, Brian took a job teaching Earth Science at Toms River High School North in Toms River, NJ.  Brian teaches five classes of college prep level through New Jersey's Alternate Route provisional teaching certificate program.  For some time, teaching has been on of Brian's goals.  In the fall 2005, Brian began a Master’s program in chemistry at Rutgers while maintaining his full time teaching position. 

          At Scranton, Brian was an avid swimmer as a member of the varsity swim team.  Brian was also a very active member of ECO and could always be counted on to take a dip in the frigid waters of Lake Henry during ECO picnics.  Brian performed a joint internship at the Cooper Environmental Center and the Jenkinson's Aquarium, both of which are in Toms River, NJ.  At the aquarium, Brian learned a great deal about the behind the scenes operation, and also interacted with the patrons giving tours and participating in educational programs.  At the environmental center, Brian assisted in the educational programs offered by the center, and as a special project he developed a self guided habitat information trail. 

Michael J. Farrell
1998 graduate
Estimator
Structure Tone, Inc.
Lyndhurst, NJ 07071

          For two years after graduation, Mike worked for a consulting engineering firm, Birdsall Engineering, in Belmar, NJ (www.birdsall.com) as an environmental consultant.  During that time, he completed a Professional Certificate in Geomatics (GIS) at Rutgers University.  In December of 2000, he left Birdsall Engineering, for a construction management firm, Structure Tone, Inc., in Lyndhurst, NJ (www.structuretone.com) where he is currently working in the Estimating Department.  Although he is not directly involved with environmental work as much as he used to be as an environmental consultant, every project he is involved with almost always has environmental issues associated with it.  Mike indicates that his education, and more importantly his work experience and contacts from his previous job has enabled him to be a value added member to project teams unique to the construction industry.  In January of 2002, he will be starting a Graduate Certificate program at NJIT in Project Management.

          On the personal side Mike indicated the following: "As for my personal life, I got married on November 2nd, 2001, and I am looking forward to spending the holidays with my wife and family”.  I miss being in school for sure, and can only hope to convince my younger brother who is a senior in high school to go to the University of Scranton next year.  I am always available to come speak or make any possible contacts for anyone from the University of Scranton.  If I can help anyone with anything, please contact me.

          While at the University, Mike performed an internship in the Environmental Chemistry Division, of American Cyanamid, in Princeton, NJ.

Michelle Ferri Wheeler
2007 graduate
District Technician
Delaware County Conservation District
Media, PA

          Shortly after graduating from the University, she began working at the Delaware County Conservation District in Media, PA as a district technician. The Conservation District is delegated to administer the Chapter 102 program on behalf of the PA DEP. The 102 program aims to control sediment pollution from earth disturbance activities. One of her tasks it to review National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permits for Stormwater Discharges from Construction Activities. She also conducts field inspections at construction sites to make sure they are following their plans to implement erosion and sedimentation controls so that sediment pollution to the waterways is minimal during precipitation events.

          Before her senior year at the University she performed her internship at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Region 3 office in Philadelphia. She worked in the Water Protection Division. One of the tasks she was assigned was to compile listings of Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) for creeks in Pennsylvania. While at the EPA, she had the opportunity to participate in various wetland training courses.

Melanie Foy Buckler
1997 Graduate
Chemical Hygiene Program Manager
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
Bryn Mawr, PA

          After leaving Scranton, Melanie worked as an Environmental Chemist for the Safety Kleen Corporation for several years. Upon learning that the site was closing, she took the opportunity to leave the lab and started working as a recruiter within the life sciences. She advanced within life sciences recruiting and worked in several different organizations, eventually ending up as a Team Lead with Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. During this time, she completed her MBA at Villanova University as well as a Project Management course with the same institution.

          While at CHOP, she worked closely with the Office of Research Safety while recruiting for a number of their roles. When the Chemical Hygiene Program Manager role opened within their group, she jumped at the opportunity to return to the EHS field. As of May 20115, Melanie has been working in this role for 3 years and she is responsible for the management of the Research Institute's Chemical Hygiene safety program-vendor management, program and SOP development and revision, liaison with labs, lab managers and Principal Investigators, and training-lots of training.

          Melanie transferred to Scranton for the fall of her junior year and was the first graduate of the Environmental Science program in 2007. She played varsity softball (pitcher) and took courses towards a minor in exercise science. Her internship was with the Environmental Health and Safety department of the Gentex Corporation, where she assisted with their Title V air permit as well as the transition to an in-house MSDS database.

Kitty Fromtling Wilkin
2003 graduate 
Homemaker
Monroe, ME

          Following graduation, Kitty was offered a job at an Environmental Consulting & Engineering firm in NJ at which she had worked as an intern the summer after her Junior year. She worked at this firm as a wetlands/land use scientist for just over 6 years while earning a Master's Degree in Elementary Education at Montclair State University in NJ. Upon graduation with her Master's degree, She was offered a job she couldn't refuse teaching 3rd grade at a local elementary school. She taught for nearly 3 years before having her first child and becoming a full time mom. She now resides in Maine with her husband and two children, with another baby on the way (as of April 2015. She a full time mom, but still utilize her degrees daily in passing her love of nature and fascination with science and learning on to her children.

          At Scranton she majored in Environmental Science and graduated with honors. While at the U, she was also a member of the University swim team and played ultimate frisbee for the club team, as well as playing intramural basketball, ultimate frisbee, & volleyball.

John Gray 
2000 graduate 
Deputy Chief of Staff
New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection 
Trenton, NJ

          I graduated in 2000, majoring in Environmental Science and English. Along with Matt Stadler and Paul Bechtal, I started the ECO club that raised awareness of environmental issues on campus, and hosted a number of social events for like-minded students. I spent two summers working with Dr. Carey and Dr. Townsend supporting their various research interests - birds and forest morphology, respectively. Splitting time between two very different majors was difficult, but rewarding. Science classes honed research and analytic skills, while English classes built communication skills. I highly recommend science students take classes that to improve communication (written/spoken), as well policy-centric classes. It is important to appreciate how scientifically supported information can play in day-to-day decision-making, whether at corporations, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. Nearing graduation, I made the decision to enter the job market, rather than pursue further advanced studies (in the field of ethnobotany, which I was introduced to through a Tropical Biology class at Scranton).

After graduation, I obtained an entry-level job at a small consulting firm in NJ. The firm provided various environmental services - land use permitting, site remediation investigation and action plan development, and other permitting needs for clients. After a year in consulting, I applied for and obtained a job at the NJ Dept. of Environmental Protection as a staff permit manager in the Division of Water Quality. After several years at this position, I began studies at law school as an evening student focusing on international and securities law. My most memorable law school events: acting as an assistant on a class program in Louisiana covering the Deepwater Horizon spill; and studying abroad in Cairo, Egypt following Egypt's January Revolution in 2011. My law school experience greatly benefited from my Scranton education: the analytic skills from science and the communication skills from English. After graduating from Seton Hall School of Law, I began climbing the ranks at NJDEP: first as an Environmental Justice coordinator, acting as a facilitator for projects affecting low-income and minority communities; then as an Executive Assistant to the Deputy Commissioner; and now finally as Deputy Chief of Staff. As Deputy Chief of Staff, I manage staff and projects in two areas: Office of Permit Coordination that oversees large, complex projects; and the Office of Legislative Services, which interfaces with federal and state legislators on various matters.

Tracy Hudak 
1999 graduate 
Landscape Designer/Planner
Klavon Design Associates 
Pittsburgh, PA

         While at Scranton, I interned with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, working with the Regional Director at the time, Mr. William McDonnell (also a graduate of the University of Scranton). When I wasn't busy dutifully studying organic chemistry (right, Dr. Cann?!), I was also an orientation aide, worked in the library reshelving books to pay tuition, and assisted Dr. Daniel Townsend in his research on the effects of deer browsing on a northern hardwood forest. 

         It's been quite a while since graduation (1999 - Yikes!), so I have a bit of a long story. Right after graduation, I took some time to explore environmental journalism, but I wanted a more active role in environmental change. In the fall of 2000, I enrolled in the Master of Urban and Regional Planning Program at Virginia Tech, where I focused on environmental planning and law. I worked for the Virginia Water Resources Research Center as a volunteer trainer and program coordinator for one of Virginia's Soil and Water Conservation Districts. There, I helped form a volunteer water quality monitoring network in a five-county area of Virginia. My final master’s project examined the ways that states tried to incentivize redevelopment of their brownfield sites through voluntary cleanup programs. 

        After graduating from Virginia Tech, I worked for the Office of Water at EPA headquarters in Washington, DC for almost 6 years. I worked in both the wastewater and drinking water divisions, focusing on regulatory implementation, public outreach, and the connections between land use and water quality.

        Following a move to Boston with my fiance, I worked for the regional planning agency for the Boston metro region. I helped support their outreach work and the implementation of the comprehensive regional plan. Despite working with great people on a great mission, I felt like I needed to re-assess my job path and what I wanted out of a career. I worked with a career counselor (sounds daunting, but was actually immensely helpful!) and ending up applying to landscape architecture masters programs. I had first learned about the field while at Virginia Tech in 2000, but back then, I didn't want to spend any more time in school. Ironically, 10 years later, there I was enrolling in a 3-year graduate program in landscape architecture at Cornell University.

        A landscape architecture program rolls science, art, horticulture, urban planning, design, sustainability, and construction into one. I graduated in 2013 and landed in Pittsburgh with my fiance, who is doing his medical residency here. I worked for the Pittsburgh water supply authority as the green infrastructure coordinator for a brief period, but I wanted to work in a firm to move toward licensure. So, right now, I work for a landscape architecture and planning firm where my title is landscape designer/planner. (You can't use the term 'landscape architect' in most states until you are licensed.) But the title is deceiving. In practice, I am a writer, researcher, designer, planner, cost estimator, and facilitator. I work on designing just about everything you find outdoors - from residential backyards to town parks to university plazas. I also work on larger scale efforts like campuses or master planning projects. My personal interests focus on green infrastructure and ecological sustainability in cities.

        I may be done with school for now, but apparently, I am not done studying – I am currently (May 2015) working on my LEED credential exams.

Lindsay (Jenkins) Keitzer
2007 graduate 
Fisheries Federal Aid Coordinator
Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife 
Columbus, OH

          After graduation, Lindsay moved to coastal North Carolina to do an internship through the SCA (Student Conservation Association). She worked for a year at Camp Lejeune Marine Corps base in their Environmental Management Branch. This further exposed her to fieldwork experiences including monitoring sea turtle nests, managing red cockaded woodpecker habitat, and installing wood duck nesting boxes. She then moved to western North Carolina and worked for a year as an intern for the National Park Service on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Here she monitored rare or threatened plant species in the mountains of North Carolina and Virginia.

          After two years of field experience, Lindsay entered graduate school at Purdue University in the Forestry and Natural Resources Department. Her focus was forest ecology, resulting in Master's thesis work involving a study of vegetative recovery in Indiana's state Parks after the introduction of controlled deer hunting
(JENKINS, L.H. M.A. JENKINS, C.R. WEBSTER, P.A. ZOLLNER, AND J.M. SHIELDS. 2014. Herbaceous layer response to 17 years of controlled deer hunting in forested natural areas. Biol. Conserv. 175: 119–128.)

            After graduation with her masters she worked as a research assistant in the forest ecology program for two years.

           Presently she is employed with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources in the Division of Wildlife. Her primary responsibilities as Fisheries Federal Aid Coordinator are to manage grants from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, NOAA, and other federal agencies to accomplish state fishery projects. In this position she submits grant applications, handles financial reimbursements, and ensures that the state activities are in compliance with federal requirements. In addition she completes environmental compliance documents for NEPA and Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act and coordinates with the region 3 office for the Fish and Wildlife Service.

           During her undergraduate years at Scranton, she was a member of the Environmentally Concerned Organization and took advantage of as many ecology courses as possible. Between her junior and senior years she did an internship with the Pennsylvania DEP, Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation. She really enjoyed the fieldwork component of this internship which required that she collect wetland delineation data from reclaimed mining sites.

Kristin Kaeser Heimburger
2002 graduate 
Environmental Project Supervisor/LSRP
TTI Environmental, Inc.
Moorestown, NJ

        I graduated with a BS in Environmental Science. I was a member of the Environmentally Concerned Organization (ECO) for 4 years and co-president for 2 years. As co-president, we started an off campus recycling program and sponsored many Highway 81 clean-ups. We also organized many outdoor hiking, camping, rock climbing, and white water rafting trips. Part of my major included an internship. i jumped at the chance to start a paid internship February of my junior year. I worked with the Small Business Development Center's Environmental Management Program out of both University of Scranton's and Wilkes University's offices. Our goal was to assist small businesses with energy savings through the performance of energy audits. I continued my internship through my senior year. During my 4 years at Scranton, I participated in the work study program and worked under Sr. Joan at the Center for Eastern Christian Studies. I was tasked with editing newsletters and helping manage the library. I also participated in club softball and basketball.

        After leaving Scranton I began working in the environmental consulting industry. I started with TTI Environmental in October of 2002 and remain at TTI. At TTI, I began as an Assistant Project Manager and after 3 years was promoted to Project Manager. In 2007 I was promoted to the position of Environmental Project Supervisor. My tasks include the oversight of our Due Diligence projects, attendance at sales/marketing functions, management of projects for our larger clients, involvement in the human resources aspect of our department, involvement in our company safety program, and involvement in our quality assurance program. In May 2014 I became a Licensed Site Remediation Professional (LSRP) in the State of New Jersey. My role as LSRP includes project budget management, review and oversight of Site Remediation Program (SRP) cases from Preliminary Assessment to Remedial Action, and the issuance of Response Action Outcomes (RAOs) to close remedial cases. I also perform environmental services in New York, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia. My projects include federal, commercial, and industrial sites. I am involved in and a member of the LSRP Association, Society of American Military Engineers, Builders League of South Jersey, Burlington County Chamber of Commerce, and the Society of Women Environmental Professionals. My licenses/certifications include LSRP, NJDEP UST Closure/Subsurface Evaluator, OSHA 40 hour HAZWOPER and 10 hour Construction, and Asbestos Building Inspector. I live in Marlton, NJ with my husband Adam and puppy Thor.

Stephanie Keating-Green
1998 graduate
Chemist II
CertainTeed Corporation
Blue Bell, PA

        After graduating from Scranton, Stephanie began her career at CertainTeed Corporation in the Insulation Group as a Lab Technician.  She was subsequently promoted to a Chemist I and then to her current position as a Chemist II.  As a Glass Chemist she prepares and analyzes glass, fiberglass, and raw material samples.  Her job not only requires her to analyze samples but to also to interpret results utilizing classical and instrumental techniques.

          She is continuing her education at the McCrone Research Institute in Chicago, where she will be earn a graduate certificate in Chemical Microscopy.

          While at the University of Scranton Stephanie performed an internship at Sea World in Orlando, Florida.  As a Secondary Instructor, in the Education Department at Sea World, Stephanie assisted in the preparation and teaching of classes, and had the opportunity to "go behind the scenes" and interact with most of the animals.

          Stephanie is married, has one daughter and is expecting her second child in February 2002.

Andrew S Kijesky 
1999 graduate 
Operations Research Analyst 
Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division 
Patuxent River, MD

        Between his busy work and study schedule, Andrew finds the time to play the mellophone as a member of the Washington Redskins Marching Band. He has been a member of the band since 1999.

        Andrew married Crystal Wacke on May 31st 2003 at the Nativity of Our Lord Church in Southside Scranton. Fr. G. Donald Pantle, S.J., ad Fr. Brendan Lally, S.J., both Jesuits that served at the University of Scranton, presided over the mass and ceremony. Andrew and his wife are the proud parents of 3 beautiful girls.

        While at Scranton, Andrew completed an internship with Systems Integration and Research, Naval Air Station, Patuxent River, Maryland. His internship involved vegetation specimen collection, mapping, research and analysis, and database management.

        Andrew is employed in the Electro-Optic (EO) and Special Mission Sensors Division at the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division in Patuxent River, MD. He is currently a branch head within the division. In addition to his branch head management responsibilities, Andrew supports various USN, USMC and USAF platforms as the engineer for specific EO and Infrared (IR) sensors including acquisition, integration and capability improvements. Past activities include data collection while flying as a Project Specialist in various locations across the world, in-lab data analysis, algorithm development, sensor improvements to EO/IR system, provided hands-on EO/IR systems training at multiple fleet locations, prediction of atmospheric and oceanic conditions, database generation of environmental characteristics in flight operational areas and other sensor and environmental related topics.

        In addition, Andrew graduated in June 2005 from Johns Hopkins University (Washington D.C. campus) with an MS in Environmental Science and Policy and an Associate’s Degree in Program Management in June 2011 from The George Washington University.

Cara Kleinberger 
2000 graduate 
Environmental, Health and Safety Assistant 
Schott Glass Technologies Inc. 
Duryea, PA

          Cara currently serves as an Environmental, Health and Safety assistant at Schott Glass Technologies where she has been employed since January 2000.

          Cara's job requires that she be well versed in EPA, PADEP and OSHA laws and regulations.  Her responsibilities include the preparation, processing and interpretation of information for governmental reporting requirements, and conveying this information to appropriate government agencies.  Cara also prepares, conducts and maintains records for necessary water/air/noise sampling and safety training as per state and federal regulations. In addition, she assists in assuring compliance with applicable EPA, PADEP, OSHA and other governmental regulations regarding safety and the environment, and also with corporate IMSU guidelines.  Cara is supervised by, and reports directly to the Manager, Environmental, Health and Safety.  Furthermore, her responsibilities include the continuous improvement of Environmental, Health and Safety to make the facility safer for employees, the community and the Environment. Cara also takes part in the Schott Corporate EHS Assessment Team, where team members visit Schott facilities in North America and conduct Environmental and Safety assessments.

          In addition to her university education, Cara has taken the 40 hour OSHA course on General Industry Standards and attended many professional development seminars and conferences.

          Cara's association with Schott Glass Technologies goes back to her days at Scranton when she performed her internship in the Environmental Health and Safety department at Schott.  Cara's work was so valued by Schott, she began working at Schott the January before her May graduation.

          While at Scranton, Cara was a member of E.C.O.. She also was involved in the Student/Teacher Research Program during her junior and senior year, doing research on the effects of deer browsing on a northern hardwood forest under the direction 
of Dr. Townsend. Cara also was involved in the Student/Teacher Mentoring Program as a teaching assistant for Ecology lab during her senior year.

          Cara received a Loyola scholarship to the University of Scranton. Cara also was on the Dean's list for several semesters and graduated cum laude.

McCullough James T.
2003 graduate
Radiation Physicist
NJDEP
Trenton, NJ

          After graduation, James returned to a 6-month position at the Pennypack Trust as an assistant to the Restoration Specialist and Land Steward. He assisted with a cumulative survey of the woody vegetation over the 400+ acre preserve. The purpose of this survey was to provide data of forest regeneration and the effects of deer browsing to be compared to similar studies of previous years.  He also assisted the Restoration Specialist with his Master's thesis study of the effects that sulfur applications could have on the soil characteristics. The aim was to replicate the methodology past studies in forest regeneration, but apply the strategy to enhance the regeneration of native grassland habitat.

          In January of 2004, he accepted a position with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Radioactive Materials Program out of Ewing, NJ (www.agreementstate.nj.gov). Through this position he has obtained extensive additional training given through various federal resources including the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and Department of Energy. Primary duties involve reviewing license documents regarding radioactive materials use and conducting facility inspections and incident investigations. In recent years, he has become more involved with evaluation of facilities requesting license termination and evaluation of sites contaminated with radioactive materials. Other duties include responding to incidents involving radioactive materials with the Radioactive Materials Radiological Assessment Team (RAMRAT) and preparedness training as a Nuclear Emergency Responder performing dose assessment and field sampling in the event of an emergency at a nuclear power plant.

          While at Scranton James was active with the Environmentally Concerned Organization (E.C.O. club), planning and participating in highway and stream clean-ups and other events. One of his most memorable course experiences were the many hours spent trying to get things right in the chemistry and biology labs; and especially early morning birding trips for Animal Behavior and a trip to the salt marshes in Georgia and Louisiana for Estuarine Ecology.

          He completed an internship with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Environmental Cleanup Program, Special Projects Division operating out of the Southeast Region office of PADEP. Duties included case review and writing summaries of Act 2 clean-up completions, updating databases, paperwork management and field work accompanying specialists on site investigations and sampling events.

          He also worked between most semesters at the Pennypack Ecological Restoration Trust in Huntingdon Valley, PA (http://www.pennypacktrust.org/) as an assistant to the Restoration Specialist and Land Steward. Duties were primarily maintaining trails, reforestation plots and other native vegetation. It remains one of my favorite local spots for a short hike.

Elizabeth Ochs Lillie
2008 Graduate
Resource Assistant
Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection
Hartford, CT                                               

     After graduation she continued on to earn a MS in Environmental Science & certificate in Toxicology & Industrial Hygiene from Drexel University, Philadelphia PA. Immediately following graduation from Drexel she began working at Mystic Aquarium, Mystic Connecticut, as a Water Quality Lab Technician. Her primary responsibilities were ensuring compliance with the CT DEEP NPDES permit and the Marine Mammal Protection Act. This was a bench chemistry position -requiring water quality analyses & interpretation for all fish, invertebrate, and mammal systems.

     After four years at the aquarium, she grew more interested in the permitting aspect, and in May 2014 accepted a position with the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection. She is working in the Aquatic Toxicity division of the Bureau of Water Protection and Land Reuse. A primary component of her position is compliance and data management of Aquatic Toxicity Monitoring Reports (ATMR’s) for Individual Industrial National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits. She is also project support for stormwater reporting- the General Permit for the Discharge of Stormwater Associated with Industrial Activity which regulates industrial facilities with point source discharges.

     During her four years at the U, She worked in the Chemistry Stockroom. This was a great experience interacting with fellow students and professors. She helped in setting up the weekly student labs, conducted inventory, & assisted with chemical storage. For her ES internship, she chose to go abroad; working as an Environmental Protection Intern, for the City of Ryde, Sydney Australia. This position focused primarily on community outreach & sustainability. She also worked as a Resident Assistant during her Junior & Senior year, and an orientation assistant.

As of April, 2015, husband Nicholas and she reside in Pawcatuck CT, and are expecting their first child shortly!

Matt Mee 
2002 graduate 
Senior Staff Environmental Scientist
T&M Associates
Moorestown, NJ

        Since graduation he has worked in the consulting engineering industry with a focus on environmental compliance.  Matt previously worked in the regulatory division at PMK Group. This company is a consulting and environmental engineering firm employing civil, geotechnical, environmental, mechanical and chemical engineers, scientists, geologists, hydro-geologists, and industrial hygienists.  

        As of April 2015, he works in the Compliance & Permitting department of T&M Associates, a consulting engineering firm in New Jersey. He lives in South Jersey with his wife of three years, Nicole, and 10 month old daughter Charlotte.

     During his 4 years at Scranton he participated in intramural basketball, played rugby and competed in a few Judo tournaments. He was also a member of the ECO club and enjoyed a few BBQ's at Dr. Cann's house. While at Scranton he interned at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Southeast Regional Office in Conshohocken.  During his internship, Matt worked in the Bureau of Waste Management.  Matt performed field audits of abandoned landfills and compiled an inventory of these sites.  In the initial stage of the internship Matt underwent intensive training in the use of digital navigational and mapping devices.  Throughout the remainder of the internship he made extensive use of these devices. He also worked at Granteed's pizzeria and enjoyed many many hot wing hoagies at Goodfella's.

Christine Potts Miller
2002 graduate 
Environmental Scientist
GHD, Inc. (formerly Conestoga-Rovers & Assocaites, Inc.)
Exton, PA

          I graduated with a B.S. in Environmental Science. During my 4 years at the University, I was an active member of the Environmentally Concerned Organization (ECO) and co-president for the last 2 years. ECO was responsible for starting an off campus recycling program and sponsoring a section of Highway 81 through the Adopt-A-Highway program. As a group, we completed many highway clean-ups and participated in many hiking, camping, and white water rafting trips. As part of my degree program, I completed a paid internship with the PA Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) during the summer between sophomore and junior year. During this internship I was responsible for inspecting dry cleaning facilities to ensure they disposed of their perchloroethylene waste properly and maintained waste manifests and equipment inspection/repair documentation. I completed a second internship with PADEP during the summer between junior and senior year which continued over intersessi on of senior year. This time I inspected Auto Body Shops to ensure proper disposal of waste material (paints, solvents, etc.) and educated shop owners about air quality control measures for paint spray guns. I also participated in the work study program at the University where I worked at the Computer Help Desk and then in the Biology Department Stockroom.

          After graduation, I began working for Earth Tech, Inc., an environmental consulting firm in Trevose, PA. My job responsibilities included field monitoring of groundwater, surface water and soil at Superfund sites, operation and maintenance of groundwater treatment systems, site investigations, and data collection, compilation and report preparation. In October 2004 I moved to Conestoga-Rovers & Associates (GHD as of 7/1/15) located in Exton, PA. In 2006 I started evening graduate classes at West Chester University in PA and obtained a M.S. in Biology in December 2009. During my 10+ years at (CRA/GHD), I have been involved in many different projects focused on natural resource protection. My work activities include project management, wetland delineations, wetland mitigation/monitoring, rare, threatened and endangered species surveys (flora and fauna), stream quality assessments, ecological risk assessments, and spill response (ecological support for petroleum pipelin e releases, leaking USTs, and train derailments, which over the past few years have sent me to Texas and Illinois).

          I live in Collegeville/Trappe, PA with my husband Russell and our daughter Fiona (born February 2015). 

Alison (Murphy) Miskiman
1998 graduate
City Research Scientist II
New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
New York, NY

          Alison and her husband recently moved to New York City where she accepted a position as a City Research Scientist II with the Emergency Preparedness Unit at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Her primary focus is interagency outreach working with federal, state, and city agencies to share/exchange environmental monitoring data.

           From 2001-2005 she lived and worked just north of Boston, Massachusetts for Weston Solutions, Inc. under U.S. EPA Region I's Superfund Technical Assessment and Response Team contract as a Project Scientist.  At Weston, she was part of the Site Assessment team and conducted atmospheric modeling. One of the highlights at Weston was being part of the Unified Modeling Team at the Democratic National Convention in July 2004.

           From 1998-2000 Alison attended the University of New Hampshire and earned her masters degree in Earth Science/Geochemical Systems.  While at UNH, she was a Research Assistant in the Climate Change Research Center and had the opportunity to spend a field season in the Canadian Arctic on Devon Island and assisted with the drilling and collection of an Arctic ice core. For her masters research, she sampled the Devon ice core, interpreted its glaciochemistry, and developed the first 5,200-year sea-ice proxy of the North Water Polynya.  In addition, while at UNH, she had the opportunity to travel to Iceland and present her research to an International Sea-Ice Conference.

Seth Moore
2013 graduate
Field Technician
Montrose Environmental Group
Easton, PA

          After graduation Seth took a job with Avogadro Environmental Corporation in Easton, PA as an Air Emissions Technician. In July 2014 Avogadro was acquired by the Montrose Environmental Group. They perform informational and compliance testing of stationary source air emissions in various settings. Seth’s responsibilities include preparing glassware for field sample trains, assembling equipment and gas cylinders for projects, field set-up of sampling equipment, and the monitoring of source sampling equipment for moisture and particulate sample trains during test days. This position required Seth to attain several certifications including 40 Hr. HAZWOPER, Hazard Communication, Aerial & Scissor Lift Operation, and Fall Protection.

            Seth began his undergraduate years at Scranton as a Chemistry major, but switched to Environmental Science halfway through his sophomore year. His performance in the Biology courses associated with Environmental Science led to his induction into the Tri-Beta Honor Society. In the summer after his junior year he performed an internship with MACtac, Inc., Scranton, PA, under Cara Kleinberger Glaser (2000 ES alumna).  The internship was a great experience regarding the application of environmental regulations in an industrial/manufacturing setting. Many times facilities merge the environmental responsibilities with those of Health & Safety. Often worker safety discussions, tasks and other responsibilities take priority.
During all four years at Scranton he played on the University's ACHA club ice hockey team, and even became one of the student representatives/DII team captains during his senior year.

Stephen Pallone
2011 Graduate
Compliance Manager/Field Foreman
Ground/Water Treatment & Technology
New Jersey

     Upon graduation, Steve enrolled in an Environmental Studies program at Montclair State University and quickly found a job at Ground/Water Treatment & Technology's (GWTT's) New Jersey Branch. However, after a career opportunity opened in the new Pennsylvania branch, Steve opted to temporarily delay his graduate studies and move to Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

     In Williamsport Steve worked on the Marcellus Shale natural gas project for GWTT's client, Anadarko, GWTT's role was to retreat frac-water on location at the Natural Gas Pads so it can be re-used (reducing the amount of fresh water needed). Steve immediately acted in a major leadership role growing the small project into a 20-man branch operating on as many as 5 gas pads at a time.

     In 2013 Steve was recruited for a major construction project in Newark, New Jersey. Here, he acted as the onsite foreman overseeing crews in the water treatment portion of the project. Also in 2013, Steve enrolled in an online Master's of Business Administration (MBA) program with a concentration in Sustainability and Environmental Compliance through Southern New Hampshire University. Steve continues to work full-time while earning his degree.

     Most recently, he has been the acting Compliance Manager for his branch. In this role, he is responsible for analyzing water sample results, reporting to clients, and reporting to agencies such as the NJDEP and EPA. Despite the responsibilities as a compliance manager, Steve maintains a strong presence as a technician, building and working on water treatment plants throughout the New York City area.

      Steve graduated from Scranton in 2011 with a double major in Biology and Environmental Science. During his time at the University of Scranton, he was able to assist in bird migration research with Dr. Robert Smith and participate as a Teacher's Assistant for two consecutive years in an Ecology course.

     Taking advantage of the many travel opportunities Scranton provides, Steve was able to travel both domestically and abroad. Most notably, travelling to the estuaries of Southern Louisiana and Georgia. Here, he obtained first-hand experience studying the delicate wet lands.

Marie Perry
2012 Graduate
Education Coordinator
Living Classrooms Foundation
Baltimore, MD

          I loved being at Scranton! I spread myself pretty thinly across many different extra-curricular activities and a lot of academics. I was a busy bee, wasn't the student I could have been, but I enjoyed everything I did. I've become a very well-rounded person because of the choices I made during college.

          As an Environmental Science student, I did not do great research or have a great internship- in part my own fault and in part due to outside factors. If I could do it all again, I would have found a more dedicated science internship or research topic to follow. My interests were everywhere and I was anxious about focusing on one thing, had I focused a little more I would have been a more successful Environmental Science student. That aside, I am a great product of a Jesuit Liberal Arts education.

          I was in the Special Jesuit Liberal Arts program (SJLA- now an honors program). That program was one of the best things I took away from being at Scranton and it led me to a double major in Philosophy. I also minored in Spanish and English, purely because I liked both subjects. I did all of this pretty easily because Scranton accepted the college credit I received in high school. I was not a typical ES student because I declared my major later after being undecided for most of freshman year- so I bypassed a few things and took classes out of order.

          I tried being in every extra curricular activity I could, then slowly weeded things out. By senior year I was a prominent member of the environmental club (ECO - Environmentally Concerned Organization) and the Fair Trade Club (USFT- United Students for Fair Trade). These were two very active groups that were successful because of the great teams I was a part of. The ECO club was given a facelift in my time at Scranton and that was due to my very dedicated partner in crime! I hope that ECO has continued on to bigger things. I also was involved in National Food Day- an interdisciplinary effort to talk about food issues.

I also dabbled in USPB, different retreats, and Photography Club and intramural volleyball.

          My post-college career path is very interesting. Long anecdotes aside, I graduated and had nothing lined up. I was too anxious during school to focus on afterward, so I found myself at my parents house a month after graduation pressuring myself as I scoured the internet for something I was interested in.

I knew what I wasn't interested in. It was a gut feeling. I was leaning toward farming and non-profit work.

          Several months after graduating I was an apprentice/ intern at a goat farm near my parents house. I learned how to care for goats, make goat cheese, and sell at farmer's markets. It was a blast! I made very little money and lived on the farm or at my parents house. I got more familiar with where I was from and learned about biology, politics, and nature.

To keep some sort of cash flow, I was a waitress and looked for other jobs. I eventually worked somewhere recruiting for Farmer's Markets in NYC- but that did not work out for several reasons.

          Around the same time I was hired for a 2 month internship as an Environmental Educator for Hudson River Sloop Clearwater. It was adventurous and science oriented. I worked on a sail boat on the Hudson River taking elementary school kids out on field trips. I taught about water quality, marine life, estuarine science, history of the Hudson River Valley (my home), and navigation. I also learned how to sail and I was hooked.

           I met people working there who hired me to become a crew member on a schooner running sails out of Connecticut. I worked as a deckhand for Mystic Whaler Cruises. I sailed people around Long Island Sound learning more about sailing, the water, and history of the area. This job ended and I was home again in November, undecided and looking for more work.

          I spent the winter not making any decisions, but finally decided to find another environmental sailing program. That's when I came to Living Classrooms Foundation. I worked as a deckhand aboard a schooner that ran field trips in Baltimore. I became a better sailor and learned more estuarine science and biology of the Chesapeake Bay. I worked doing this from March- November 2014. I spent the winter back in the Hudson Valley doing maintenance on the Sloop Clearwater.

          In March of 2015, I decided to come back to Living Classrooms Foundation as the Educational Coordinator aboard the boat, I still get to sail but I have more responsibility in planning the programming for schools, students, adults, and the public. I sail all day then spend time in the office emailing schools, applying for fishing licenses, and planning overnight trips. It really is awesome. I am living and eating aboard a schooner in a nice neighborhood of Baltimore. I am part of a small community and the sailing community on the East Coast. I am set up to learn a lot this year as a coordinator, but my job will end come November. My days of seasonal jobs may be ending, and am considering more schooling or licensing for sailing boats. Or both. Or neither. I'll see come November!

Nancy Panarese Pierson
2002 Graduate 
Senior Public Health Sanitarian 
Suffolk Country Department of Health 
Yaphank, NY

          Nancy is presently working at the Suffolk County Department of Health - Office of Ecology as a Senior Public Health Sanitarian. Her job responsibilities include marine and fresh water sampling (VOCs, bacteria, pesticides, nutrients, etc.) of Long Island's major water ways (Great South Bay, Long Island Sound, Peconic Estuary System, etc.).

          She is currently the program manager for the Suffolk County Bathing Beach Monitoring & Notification Program. Duties include inspecting permitted beaches to be sure they are up to code and functioning properly; sampling over 190 bathing beaches during the spring and summer months for E.coli and Enterococcus bacteria to ensure public health safety; training summer interns to aid in beach bacteria sampling.

          In 2010 Nancy earned an MS in Environmental Studies from Long Island University CW Post. In 2010, she was awarded the Environmental Science Award from Long Island University CW Post.

          While at Scranton, she was very active in the ECO club and was one of the crazy ones who braved the cold waters of Lake Henry during ECO outings.

          At Scranton she was selected to do an internship under Mr. William McDonnell, Regional Director, Northeast Region Office of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. In addition to working closely with the Regional Director, her duties also included field word with the Emergency Response Team and electro-shock fish sampling.

          She was also a member of the University of Scranton equestrian team known as "The Royal Rides".

Francis Ramacciotti 
1998 graduate 
Senior Manager
Ramboll Environ 
Princeton, NJ

          While at the University of Scranton, Francis performed an internship with the Minnesota Department of Environmental Protection where he was involved in a program to prevent the spread of non-native aquatic nuisance species. Francis also was the manager of the Scranton Royals men's intercollegiate basketball team.

          After graduating from Scranton, Francis earned his Master in Environmental Management (MEM) in Water and Air Resources from Duke University's Nicolas School of the Environment. His Master's Project dealt with modeling nitrogen flow in the vadose zone of the Duke Forest.

          Upon graduation from Duke in 2000 he began working as an environmental consultant. As of 2015 he is a Senior Manager at Ramboll Environ US Corporation in Princeton, NJ and has experience in assessment and management of risks, from exposure to chemicals in the environment to the use of risk-based principals in site investigation and remediation under RCRA, CERCLA and state cleanup programs. He has conducted multi-pathway risk assessments at many sites in the US and other countries, and has worked with federal and state agencies in the US to foster the proper use of risk assessment in site remediation. His areas of expertise include human health risk assessment, and fate and transport modeling (e.g., vapor intrusion, soil leaching, groundwater flow).

Todd Reinhold
2000 graduate
Senior Project Manager
TRC Environmental Corporation
New Providence, NJ   

       Directly after college, Todd started working at WRS Infrastructure and environment where he learned the ropes by starting as a Field Technician Shoveling waste and running heavy equipment. He was then moved into the office where he conducted the technical oversight of the remediation projects. Todd then moved to Toxikon (Environmental Laboratory) in Bedford, MA as a Chemical Analyst running a GC/MS.  He then went to work for Dan Raviv Associates were he was a Scientist conducting Ecological assessments. 

     He currently works as a senior project manager for TRC Environmental Corporation. He is the National Accountant Director of Remediation for PSEG Fossil, Inc. The job entails design, management and oversight of Remedial Investigation and Remedial Action activities in accordance with NJDEP Regulations and Guidance.

During his Scranton year he played Soccer and Club Volleyball and worked at the Estate for ARAMARK. He interned as an environmental specialist at Tycom Industries.

     Todd have been invaluable to the Environmental Science Program at Scranton. He has arranged for internships for several students and guided many of them during their internship experience.

Ryan Smallcomb 
2000 graduate 
Industrial Hygiene
Consolidated Safety Services
Takoma Park, MD

          After leaving Scranton, Ryan took his time exploring options in the professional world.  After a few interviews, he was presented with an excellent opportunity for a newly graduated environmental science student.  Ryan took a position with a German owned company called PCI-WEDECO Environmental Technology.  The focus of Ryan's work dealt primarily with water purification using ozone as an oxidant instead of chlorine.  In addition, PCI-WEDECO Environmental Technology is a major player in employing UV light in water purification.  PCI-WEDECO has branch divisions all over the world and is the number one provider of ozone technology for use in water purification.

            Ryan's present position has taken him to the Washington, DC area where he works for Consolidated Safety Services in the area of industrial hygiene.   One of the contracts that his company is handling is the more than 100 buildings at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, MD.  Ryan's current project is working with a diverse team in conjuction with an architectural and engineering firm to design a new building for the Space Science Directorate at Goddard.
   
            During his tenure at the University of Scranton, Ryan worked as an intern at the the Northeast Institute of Environmental Renewal in Mayfield, PA.  There, Ryan took part in the Institute's Chesapeake Bay Program by monitoring and assessing pollutants in the Chesapeake Bay watershed.       

           Ryan enjoys his new location in Maryland, but still visits Northeastern Pennsylvania frequently and connects with some of his old friends that have remained in the area. 

Mary Ann V. Smith
2007 graduate 
Chemistry Instructor
Marywood University 
Scranton, PA

          Mary Ann never really has left Scranton. After her ES degree, she started a Master's in biochemistry because Dr. Baumann convinced her it was a good idea and she agrees it was.  She did research on bioethanol and received her degree in 2009 and while performing part time teaching jobs throughout the area. She was still not finished and decided to do a second bachelor's degree in Philosophy (2011), which went quickly. This led her to the Master's of Theology that she is (as of April 2015) currently finishing. Her topic of research is bioethics with a special interest in transplant ethics. “I don't think I would have walked this road if ES was not as diverse as it is.”  She is currently the Freshmen Chemistry instructor at Marywood University and loves teaching her students chemistry.  Taking a cue from her instructors Mary Ann states “I just try to be as good and fair as my teachers were.”

          Mary Ann says “my time as an environmental science major at Scranton was amazing. I loved being at the University (and still spend a significant amount of time there now).” She was the first environmental science major to successfully complete the Honors Program, which also sponsored her research on acid mine drainage. In addition, the diversity of courses in the major gave her the opportunity to work on developing courses with her faculty (Conversation Issues with Dr. Smith) and explore many different aspects of her education. She was able to pick up a minor in history as well as have a significant start in other areas of her education, Philosophy and Theology. The diversity of courses and her ability to succeed in them also gave her the opportunity to join multiple honor societies. She is a member of the Biology Honor Society, Chemistry Honor Society, History Honor Society, Social Sciences Honor Society, Theology Honor Society, and Freshmen Honor Societies. She was also honored by being named to Who's Who Among College and University students.

Matthew Stadler 
2000 graduate 
Graduate Student 
Chemistry Department, Carnegie Mellon University 
Pittsburgh, PA

          During the summer of 2000, Matt served an internship with Aventis-Pasteur in Swiftwater, PA in the biochemistry research department.  In the fall of 2000, Matt began graduate school in the Chemistry Department of Carnegie Mellon University toward his doctorate.  At CMU he joined Terry Collins' research group where they have been developing environmentally benign oxidation systems and exploring their chemistry and efficacy.  Matt's first publication, as second author, is currently undergoing the review process prior to acceptance.  He has been a teaching assistant since his first semester at CMU and has had the opportunity give a 2 lecture series introducing basic concepts of Green chemistry and Environmental chemistry to undergraduate chemistry majors at CMU.  Dr. Collins is recognized both nationally and internationally for his achievements in the field of green chemistry.  Dr. Collins won a prestigious Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Award in 1999 for his TAML oxidant activators and has recently been awarded the title of Thomas Lord Professor of Chemistry.

          While at the University, Matt served as an officer of the Environmentally Concerned Organization (ECO) where his enthusiasm and unorthodox style were always appreciated.  Matt was a TA for the ecology lab which involves "in the field" (literally often in fields) experiments and projects.  He also participated in undergraduate research with Dr. Carey, conducting behavioral experiments on "Responses of Field Sparrow adults to threats of Brown-headed Cowbird parasitism at their nests."  Matt also aided Dr. Carey in DNA fingerprint analysis of parent-offspring relationships in Field Sparrows. 

          Matt was always the first one to dive in the cold waters of Lake Henry during the fall and spring ECO outings at Dr. Cann's house.  You can see his picture here.  He is in the second picture on the left hand side freezing with Paul Bechtel. 
Matt could was also known to liven up the ECO highway cleanups and camping expeditions.

Nate Stebbins 
2011 graduate 
PhD Student
University of Arkansas, Food Science 
Fayetteville, AR 

          After graduation in 2011, with a double major in Environmental Science and Biology, Nate entered the Master’s program in Biochemistry at Scranton.  In 2013 he completed a thesis, under the direction of Joe Vinson, PhD, titled 'Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory comparison of plant extracts and pure polyphenols. This work involved plenty of analytical chemistry, especially HPLC and LC-MS.

          He then entered the University of Arkansas as a PhD student in Food Science. As of April 2015, he is nearly half-way through the program and his dissertation is titled 'Fate of anthocyanins during processing and storage of berry juices.’ He finds research to be extremely competitive with a focus on publishing high quality research. He indicates his work accomplishing/discovering original information is very satisfying.

          As an undergraduate at Scranton, Nate began research as a freshman with Ned Fetcher, PhD on a computational growth model on plants grown in shade settings. He then joined Dr. Rob Smith's research group working on a project where he investigated the dietary composition of migrating Grey Catbirds through fecal analysis. Nate enjoyed collecting samples at Lackawanna State Park, even though he had to wake up at 4AM to get on the same schedule as the birds.

          Nate earned the Excellence in Environmental Science award in 2011, and was on the Dean's List for several semesters. His extracurricular activities included serving as a resident assistant and playing in most of the intramural sports offered. As a graduate student at Scranton, he taught Physics Lab.

Kathleen Williams 
1998 graduate 
Biological Technician 
Gateway National Recreation Area 
Jamaica Bay Institute 
Brooklyn, NY

          Kathleen's first job after graduating from Scranton was a seasonal (not to exceed 6 mo.) position as a Biological Technician for Gateway National Recreation Area, Jamaica Bay Unit.  Gateway was the first urban national park in the United States, created to bring the national park experience to the residents of the New York City area.  As a seasonal Bio-Tech, her main responsibility was to monitor threatened and endangered species (e.g. piping plover, roseate tern, sea beach amiranth).  After her first 6 months, she was kept on for another season as a park ranger.  In this position, she helped to create the park's Jr. Ranger program and lead several environmental education programs for children and adults.

          In April 2000, she was offered a permanent position as a secretary.  Permanent positions are hard to come by in the National Park Service so she took the opportunity.  As a secretary she learned a lot about the administrative side of making a park work.  It was very valuable to learn how goals are set, programs are created and funds are appropriated.  It is quite the balancing act to try and meet visitors needs while continuing to protect the parks natural and cultural resources.

          With the reorganization of the Jamaica Bay Unit she was offered a permanent Biological Technician position in March 2002.  Her main responsibility was to lead the Unit's sustainability program.  The park has committed to "greening" the way they do their work.  Sustainability or greening basically means making sound decisions to meet the reasonable needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.  She is currently leading projects that range from recycling and composting programs to developing plans to reduce our hazardous waste generation and training employees on how to work safely with hazardous chemicals.

          Recently, she was offered a position working with the newly formed Jamaica Bay Institute.  The Institute is one of 13 Learning Centers created throughout the Park Service to help increase the protection of the parks' natural resources.  The primary goals of the Institute are to expand and facilitate research in Jamaica Bay (which is loosing marsh at an alarming rate), to promote improved understanding and decision-making within Jamaica Bay, and to exemplify stewardship of Jamaica Bay by showcasing applications of sustainable principles within Gateway.  Although, her title has not officially changed, as of January, 2003 she has already begun work as the Institute's education specialist.  She will still be leading the Unit's sustainablity program but with also be working to increase the public's, including major decision-makers (e.g. politicians, land owners and city/state government agencies), knowledge of the issues affecting the park's resources.

          The park is always looking for educated volunteers and interns and is currently able to provide reasonably priced government housing.  If anyone is interested, feel free to contact Kathleen.  E-mail is best.

          Kathleen and her fellow classmates were the first to graduate from the U of S with a degree in environmental science and she is glad to see everyone is doing so well and contributing in some way to the protection of our planet's vital resources.  She implores everyone to keep up the good work.  Kathleen also wrote: "I think Dr. Cann deserves some special thanks for his dedication to improving the world we live in.  You were a constant inspiration to my class and I am sure many classes to follow. 
Thank you."

           Kathleen is engaged to be married Sept. 19, 2003.

          Kathleen's association with Gateway National Recreation Area goes all the way back to her days at Scranton when she performed her internship at the Park.  Her internship experience involved educating individuals about threatened and endangered species of birds that inhabited the park and monitoring their habitats.  While at Scranton she was one of the first instigators of the Environmental Science Club (now called ECO) and organized our first field trip to participate in a beach cleanup at Gateway. 

Tom Zegler
2003 graduate 
Forest Health Specialist
New Mexico State Forestry Division,
Santa Fe, NM

Current employment:
Forest Health Specialist, New Mexico State Forestry Division, Santa Fe, NM

Major duties:
- administer the Forest Health Initiative Program
- provide technical assistance
- conduct aerial and ground surveys to detect insect and disease pests
- author an annual forest insect and disease conditions report for New Mexico

Past employment (in chronological order after graduating from the University of Scranton):
Chemist - Jackson Rancheria Casino and Hotel, Jackson, CA
Electrician - Pacific Beach, CA
Biological Science Technician - Forest Health Protection, USFS, Intermountain West
Graduate Assistant - Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ
Dendrochronologist - Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, AZ
Mushroom Forager - New Milford, CT
Pricer - Goodwill, Flagstaff, AZ

Tom earned his MS degree in Forestry at Northern Arizona University in 2011.

          While at the University, Tom could be continually heard praising the chemistry courses that he took (always wanting to take more of course, NOT).  Tom did his internship with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection under the Regional Director.  His efforts at DEP were praised highly by his supervisor and those who worked with him.  Tom could be found at many an ECO Club picnics jumping in the lake and doing his Tarzan imitation here.  "Terrorizing" Kitty Fromtling (Wilkin) and local brown trout were favorite pastimes of Tom.

Publications:
1) Zegler, Moore, Fairweather, Ireland, & Fulé. Populus tremuloides mortality near the southwestern edge of its range. Forest Ecology and Management, 2012.
2) Ireland, Moore, Fulé, Zegler, & Keane. Slow lifelong growth predisposes Populus tremuloides trees to mortality. Oecologia, 2014.
3) Huffman, Zegler, & Fulé. Fire history of a mixed conifer forest on the Mogollon Rim, northern Arizona, USA. International Journal of Wildland Fire, 2015.

Contact Me

Michael C. Cann
Chemistry Department
Univeristy of Scranton
800 Linden St. Scranton, PA 18510
570-941-7519
570-941-7510 (FAX)
michael.cann@scranton.edu