Once a Bobcat, always a Bobcat! Below you'll find our most recent alumni interviews. Explore the successes of our alumni even deeper by clicking on one of the decades below!
| 1960s/1970s | 1980s | 1990s | 2000s | 2010s | 2020s |
Alumni Spotlight: Mariam Apakidze '16
Mariam Apakidze attended Pitt-Greensburg from which she graduated in 2016 with a BS in management.
What brought you to Pitt-Greensburg?
The truth? My mother. I applied to the Oakland campus, but I was not accepted because I had only been in this country for 3 years, and my SAT scores didn’t meet their requirements. They sent me to Pitt-Bradford. I started college at 17, and my parents were so worried about me being so far away in Bradford that my mom transferred me to the closest campus to Pittsburgh, which ended up being Pitt-Greensburg. I am so eternally grateful to the turn of these events and would never choose to have it any other way. Listen to your parents, kids. They know a thing or two.
Were you a commuter or a resident?
Resident
What activities were you involved with as a student?
As a student, I did my work study program at the Computer Center and worked two part-time jobs in the city of Greensburg. These jobs helped me establish my independence and allowed me to have relatable experience that helped me in starting my career. I would strongly advise holding a customer service job while in school. It helps to showcase experience and time management skills coupled with your education.
Did you have a favorite professor, staff member, coach, or mentor that really impacted your life?
Margaret Rechter. She used to teach HR. Towards the end of my time at Pitt-Greensburg, she inspired me to choose the career path that I'm in today. But, I mostly owe my success to Director of Career Services, Dorothy Zilic, who always believed in me. From my first time walking into her office asking her to help me craft my resume to my first days at my new job, Dorothy was always there for me. I appreciated all the guidance from Career Services, who helped set me up for future success in my career.
Of all the classes you took, what is the one class that most impacted you or was your favorite? Why?
Public speaking and Intro to Psychology. I still recall many examples and teachable moments from those classes. Public speaking class helped me succeed in my career today.
What do you remember most vividly from your time at Pitt-Greensburg?
Meeting both my husband (we’ve been married ten years) and my best friend, who was my roommate in the Villages. If it wasn't for Pitt-Greensburg, I wouldn't have the personal and professional lives I have today.
What have you been up to since graduation?
I graduated from Pitt-Greensburg with a BS management in April 2016. Today, I work for the University of Pittsburgh, Division of Philanthropic and Alumni Engagement (PAE) as a recruiter. Prior to starting at PAE last August, I worked at the UPMC's Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic (WPIC), where I served as an HR generalist. In my role at WPIC, I supported the University of Pittsburgh School of Psychiatry Research group by providing HR consulting services and recommending solutions on employee relations, policies, and procedures. I was also closely involved with staff engagement and retention efforts. In addition to WPIC, I have also worked as an HR assistant at Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, as an HR specialist at Capital Healthcare Services, and as a recruiter for Dedicated Nursing Associates, Inc. Recently, I have been elected to the Pitt-Greensburg Alumni Association Board of Directors. I am looking forward to working with the board’s professional development committee to help Pitt-Greensburg students achieve their career goals and provide professional advice to future alumni. H2P!
How did your experiences and education at Pitt-Greensburg prepare you for life after college?
Having a small classroom size allowed me to be comfortable in approaching my professors and developing relationships with them. I went to College of Business Administration for a year in Oakland and came back to Pitt-Greensburg because I craved that individual attention and ability to connect with my professors and classmates. It allowed me to reach far beyond the classroom and prepare for the working world by learning how to establish good working relationships.
As an alum, how do you support Pitt-Greensburg?
I’m part of the PGAA Board of Directors, and I look forward to helping our students and getting involved more on campus.
What advice do you have for your fellow Bobcats?
Please cherish every second you have on campus with your friends, professors, and other relationships. You will look back on this time fondly, and it will be one of the best times of your life. Soak up every minute of the mostly worry-free life that you'll likely never have again. The real world is not pretty -- let yourself be young, wild, and free for a little bit. Go to parties and go to class; live to tell the tale.
For fun:
What series do you recommend alumni binge watch? Succession
List 3-5 fun facts about yourself that most people probably wouldn’t know.
- I'm heavily allergic to cats, but I live with two of them. Yes, that's how much I love cats.
- I speak four languages -- Russian, Georgian, English, and German.
- I was a season ticket holder for the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2022, and it was AWESOME!
Alumni Spotlight: Robert Armstrong '87
Robert Armstrong attended Pitt-Greensburg from which he graduated in 1987 with a BA in English writing.
What brought you to Pitt-Greensburg?
Pitt-Greensburg was close to home. I attended a small high school and the size of Pitt-Greensburg was very appealing.
Were you a commuter or a resident?
Commuter
What activities were you involved with as a student?
- President of the French Club
- Secretary of the Spanish Club
- President of the Theater Club
- Editorial Editor of the UPG Press
Did you have a favorite professor, staff member, coach, or mentor that really impacted your life?
My favorite professors include: the late Dr. Norman N. McWhinney, Dr. Richard Blevins, Emerita Professor Judith Vollmer, Dr. Collette Levin, Dr. Lillian Beeson, and the late Dr. Nancy Estrada. But Norm impacted my life in so many ways, and he was a greater than life figure. All of the faculty I mention influenced me greatly. They were all amazing teachers.
Of all the classes you took, what is the one class that most impacted you or was your favorite? Why?
Public Speaking and Debate. This class taught you fundamentals that benefitted you for the rest of your life.
What do you remember most vividly from your time at Pitt-Greensburg?
I attended Pitt-Greensburg from August 1983 to August 1987. I made friends that I still have today. I met many amazing people during my time on campus all of whom have had an impact on my life. I was involved in many organizations and clubs, but being on the UPG Press was the best. Hanging out in the newsroom, talking about politics and life never got old. I acted in five or six plays in the Smith Hall auditorium. I spent countless hours at the Student Activity Center. I loved every minute of my time on campus.
What have you been up to since graduation?
After graduation I kicked around a lot. I lived in Boston, New York City, New Jersey, Connecticut, Upstate NY, Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland. It all started in the fall of 1988. I moved to New York City and got a job as a housing administrator at NYU. This began my on-again-off-again career in higher education. Over the years, I have worked at several colleges and universities, and I am currently working at Penn State Harrisburg in Student Accountability. In 1999, I earned a Master’s degree at Duquesne University. I owned a photography business from 2012 until 2021. I’ve been married and divorced. I had my 15 minutes of fame in NYC when in 1994 I fell off the subway platform onto the tracks of the PATH system. Over 100,000 commuters were delayed that morning as it took over an hour for police and EMS to get me off the rails. In 1999, just after graduating from Duquesne, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, and I spent many months doing chemotherapy. I have had a lot of adventures.
How did your experiences and education at Pitt-Greensburg prepare you for life after college?
I learned about people and curiosity during my time at Pitt-Greensburg. I learned to ask questions and to seek answers.
As an alum, how do you support Pitt-Greensburg?
I am a class agent for the Class of 1987.
What advice do you have for your fellow Bobcats?
Life is short. We get one go around on planet Earth so make the most of the time you have. Never stop learning. Be a decent person and be kind. Believe in yourself. Have fun. My dad gave me a piece of advice after I graduated (I ignored him, of course.). He said, “When you get your first job and paycheck, the first bill you pay each month is to yourself. Save and invest because one day you will be old, and you will need the money.” He was right.
For fun:
What song do you always sing along to? As It Was by Harry Styles
List 3-5 fun facts about yourself that most people probably wouldn’t know.
- I spent my freshman year at Pitt-Greensburg hanging out with a biker gang (a long story).
- I studied acting when I lived in New York City.
- I am a really good photographer.
Alumni Spotlight: Dave Kocinski '13
Dave Kocinski attended Pitt-Greensburg from which he graduated in 2013 with a BA in English writing.
What brought you to Pitt-Greensburg?
Pitt-Greensburg was a school not too far away from home, but it was far enough for me to live on campus and have the full college experience. The writing program was spectacular, and I knew that was where I wanted to study.
Were you a commuter or a resident?
Resident
What activities were you involved with as a student?
I was a writer for the campus newspaper.
Did you have a favorite professor, staff member, coach, or mentor that really impacted your life?
My favorite professors were Lori Jakiela and Emerita Professor of English Judith Vollmer. They profoundly impacted my writing, learning, and overall experience at Pitt-Greensburg. They also were mentors who always helped me and reached out to me. I still keep in touch with Professor Jakiela.
Of all the classes you took, what is the one class that most impacted you or was your favorite? Why?
That's a tough question, but I would go with two in particular. First, any advanced level writing class with Professor Jakiela. She really helped me thoroughly express myself through writing and speaking. Next, and not related to what I studied, was physical anthropology. That class really opened my eyes to another vast world of knowledge that I never thought about.
What do you remember most vividly from your time at Pitt-Greensburg?
I remember the friendships and connections I made at Pitt-Greensburg the most. I keep in touch with the majority of the people I associated with there, and I'm really proud of that.
What have you been up to since graduation?
I brew beer for Helltown Brewing. I have been brewing beer full-time for four and a half years now. After working in higher education for a short time after I graduated from Pitt-Greensburg, I realized that this is what I want to do, and it has truly become my passion.
How did your experiences and education at Pitt-Greensburg prepare you for life after college?
My education showed me how to properly express myself and how to properly and professionally communicate with others. That is massively important in any industry, even beer.
As an alum, how do you support Pitt-Greensburg?
I occasionally visit and walk around campus. I've met students who are currently enrolled there and given some advice.
What advice do you have for your fellow Bobcats?
What you study today may not be what you end up being passionate about after you leave Pitt-Greensburg. I wanted to be a music journalist while I was there. That didn't work out, but you know what? It was totally okay. You will find something that you really want to get involved in. It's a marathon, not a race. It will work itself out.
For fun:
What series do you recommend alumni binge watch? I Think You Should Leave
List 3-5 fun facts about yourself that most people probably wouldn’t know.
- My parents attended Pitt-Greensburg in the '80s.
- I'm a cat dad.
- I never even liked beer until I was 22-years-old, and now at 32-years-old, I make it for a living.
Alumni Spotlight: Danielle (Shick) Clark '15
Danielle (Shick) Clark attended Pitt-Greensburg from which she graduated in 2015 with BS in biology.
What brought you to Pitt-Greensburg?
I was originally accepted to Oakland, but because I grew up in a small town, I wasn't quite ready for the city life. I felt Greensburg was a nice middle ground between Dubois, PA and Pittsburgh.
Were you a commuter or a resident?
Resident
What activities were you involved with as a student?
I was involved with Phi Eta Sigma, Tri Beta, Student Alumni Association, Resident Student Council, Presidential Ambassador, and ResLife.
Did you have a favorite professor, staff member, coach, or mentor that really impacted your life?
For this question, I often say my friend from day one through graduation -- Bobby Walch. Other than him, I would have to say Dr. Luderer.
Of all the classes you took, what is the one class that most impacted you or was your favorite? Why?
Honestly, I would say any of Dr. Luderer's chemistry classes.
What do you remember most vividly from your time at Pitt-Greensburg?
Living in the Academic Villages with my closest friends on campus, and going out to eat in Greensburg on the weekends.
What have you been up to since graduation?
I received my Master of Arts in Secondary Education from Slippery Rock University in 2016. I adopted a puppy named Ollie in 2018. I married in 2021, and we welcomed a baby in May 2023.
How did your experiences and education at Pitt-Greensburg prepare you for life after college?
I used my science education to teach microbiology, life science, and human anatomy and physiology. Currently, I am at Penn State working as an instructional designer.
As an alum, how do you support Pitt-Greensburg?
I try to attend alumni events with friends when I'm in town.
What advice do you have for your fellow Bobcats?
Get involved and make as many friends as you can.
For fun:
What is the last book you read? Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
List 3-5 fun facts about yourself that most people probably wouldn’t know.
- As a child, I attended Britney Spears's "Oops!... I Did It Again" Tour.
- After my second year of teaching, I was awarded Exemplary Educator of the Year in 2019.
- I've unintentionally never read, or watched a Harry Potter book/movie.
Alumni Spotlight: Ashley (Russo) Rockman '14
Ashley (Russo) Rockman attended Pitt-Greensburg from which she graduated in 2014 with BS in psychology.
What brought you to Pitt-Greensburg?
As soon as I visited the campus, I fell in love! I really liked the idea of having smaller class sizes, because I didn't want to just be a number. I wanted to be able to form relationships with fellow students and faculty.
Were you a commuter or a resident?
Resident
What activities were you involved with as a student?
I performed in the spring musical my sophomore, junior, and senior year! I also participated in many different volunteering opportunities, and was active in the villages where I lived for 3 years.
Did you have a favorite professor, staff member, coach, or mentor that really impacted your life?
Dr. Russell Phillips was amazing! He really got to know all of his students on a personal level and created a great student/professor bond! Professora Contreras was also amazing! I was terrified to take a language course in college, but she made it so much fun and really made sure to engage with her students and make them feel comfortable even when they may not have felt confident in their abilities.
Of all the classes you took, what is the one class that most impacted you or was your favorite? Why?
One class I really enjoyed (outside of my major) was Basic Acting with Dr. Sheila Confer. It was honestly SO much fun, and really helped me gain confidence on and off stage. I'm typically pretty introverted, so it helped break me out of my shell!
What do you remember most vividly from your time at Pitt-Greensburg?
I remember it being such a tight knit community. Everyone was always so friendly, and it was truly some of the best years of my life. I have gained lifelong friends while attending Pitt-Greensburg.
What have you been up to since graduation?
Since graduation, I have gotten married to the love of my life, Ethan. We adopted our fur baby, Maxwell. We gave him Aiden, his human brother in August 2020. I have been working as a data intake coordinator for a pharmaceutical company for the last five years, and within the last year, I have started my own custom cookie business named Rock Sugar Cookies! (Follow me on Facebook and Instagram :) )
How did your experiences and education at Pitt-Greensburg prepare you for life after college?
My experiences and education at Pitt-Greensburg has helped me a lot in my post college life. My first "big girl" job was working at a nursing home, where I was predominantly on the memory impaired unit. Having a psychology background really helped me navigate working there.
As an alum, how do you support Pitt-Greensburg?
I have returned to campus to watch the musicals almost every year since graduating!
What advice do you have for your fellow Bobcats?
My advice for all my fellow Bobcats would be to truly embrace college life! Put yourself out there. Be involved in as much as you can, and just enjoy it! The time flies by in the blink of an eye.
For fun:
What is your favorite food? Greasy cheesy pizza!
List 3-5 fun facts about yourself that most people probably wouldn’t know.
- I have participated in (at least) 10 obstacle course races! My most recent being the Tough Mudder 15K in October.
- I taught myself how to bake and decorate sugar cookies during the pandemic, and turned it into a full-blown business.
- I am obsessed with anything/everything Halloween. Spooky season is my fave!
Alumni Spotlight: Gregory Holts '15
Gregory Holts attended Pitt-Greensburg from which he graduated in 2015 with BS in psychology.
What brought you to Pitt-Greensburg?
I always wanted to go to the University of Pittsburgh. Pitt is a reputable school and could provide connections to future opportunities. However, transportation was an issue for me, at the time. The University of Pittsburgh Greensburg was great for me because it was close to home.
Were you a commuter or a resident?
Commuter
What activities were you involved with as a student?
Though I only lived on campus for a year, I enjoyed the Table-Top Club, Black Student Union, video game tournaments, and socializing with my peers.
Did you have a favorite professor, staff member, coach, or mentor that really impacted your life?
Russell E Phillips, III, PhD was one of my favorite professors and solidified my drive to get my degree in Psychology.
Of all the classes you took, what is the one class that most impacted you or was your favorite? Why?
Though it has been over ten years, Pitt-Greensburg offered a course on Christianity that was influential to my life. This class added a new dimension to how I look at my faith. My faith in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is paramount, and I never would have thought that a college course would strengthen my belief. I can't remember the exact name of the course or the professor's name, but it will always hold a place in my heart.
What do you remember most vividly from your time at Pitt-Greensburg?
When I think back to my time at Pitt-Greensburg, the support from the friends I met on campus is the thing I remember most vividly. I met plenty of great people at a time I truly needed it. As well, I enjoyed the smaller classes and good education.
What have you been up to since graduation?
I am happily married to my wonderful wife Michaela and have two daughters, Hannah and Jessica. I currently work at the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission as an investigator of unlawful discrimination in the areas of employment, housing and commercial property, education and/or regarding public accommodations. As well, I am a licensed minister and an elder at River City Church in Swissvale. I recently graduated with a certificate in Biblical Studies from the Center For Urban Biblical Ministry. When I can, I volunteer with Greater Pittsburgh Area MAD DADS (Men Against Destruction Defending Against Drugs and Social Disorder)
How did your experiences and education at Pitt-Greensburg prepare you for life after college?
My psychology was helpful during my time as Service Coordinator at UPMC, helping provide services for individuals with disabilities, and as a child abuse investigator for the Office of Children, Youth, and Family. Within my current and past professions, understanding how people think goes a long way.
As an alum, how do you support Pitt-Greensburg?
I have attended campus events.
What advice do you have for your fellow Bobcats?
Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God - Micah 6:8
For fun:
What is your favorite food? Ribs
List 3-5 fun facts about yourself that most people probably wouldn’t know.
- I can't stand pickles.
- I won $150 for a weight loss contest my freshman year at Pitt-Greensburg.
- The only movie I've ever walked out on is Spiderman 3.
- I enjoy Chill-Hop.
Alumni Spotlight: Dave Stout '06
Dave Stout attended Pitt-Greensburg from which he graduated in 2006 with BAs in communication and English literature.
What brought you to Pitt-Greensburg?
A beautiful campus, an excellent staff, and some of the best programs available are what brought me to campus. It also helped that it was close to home, and I am very close with my family.
Were you a commuter or a resident?
Commuter
What activities were you involved with as a student?
I hosted the open mic night at The Exchange coffee shop for a short while. I participated in the One Acts for a couple years, and I was also in the Pitt-Greensburg Chorus for a semester.
Did you have a favorite professor, staff member, coach, or mentor that really impacted your life?
Yes, former Professor Beeson was a major impact for my college days. She really was kind and understanding and encouraged expression. Dr. Sheila Confer was another person I looked up to, in that, she was always a tremendous light of support to the student body.
Of all the classes you took, what is the one class that most impacted you or was your favorite? Why?
A class that made an impact is Argument. Professor Beeson taught it when I was there. It made me look at different sides of arguments and sometimes take the side with which I didn’t necessarily agree.
What do you remember most vividly from your time at Pitt-Greensburg?
Most vividly, I remember the social interactions with my peers. Different kinds of people, different views, but everybody was there for the same reason. I got to meet people from all walks of life.
What have you been up to since graduation?
Since graduation I have been performing music. I am a singer/songwriter. I currently have four albums available for purchase digitally and also available to stream on all major platforms. I am working on new music with the hopes of releasing another album sometime this summer.
How did your experiences and education at Pitt-Greensburg prepare you for life after college?
With a major in communication, I was prepared to perform in front of people. I know to be prepared before I speak or sing to a crowd, because freezing up can be pretty embarrassing. With my minor in English literature, I learned how to write poetry in particular, which has helped with songwriting.
As an alum, how do you support Pitt-Greensburg?
I always speak highly of Pitt-Greensburg especially when someone is looking to further their education. I would love to host a songwriting workshop there if the opportunity ever arises.
What advice do you have for your fellow Bobcats?
Figure out what you love to do… it may take a while. But, once you figure that out, do it to the best of your ability. After you do that, keep trying to get better, because education does not stop after graduation.
For fun:
What series do you recommend alumni binge watch? I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson
List 3-5 fun facts about yourself that most people probably wouldn’t know.
- I started my career in music as part of a rap band. We actually put on a concert at Pitt-Greensburg.
- My wife and I have a combined 5 kids.
- I’m a big baseball fan. Let’s Go Bucs!
Alumni Spotlight: Amanda Bateman '16
Amanda Bateman attended Pitt-Greensburg from which she graduated in 2016 with a BA in English writing.
What brought you to Pitt-Greensburg?
The small class sizes
Were you a commuter or a resident?
Resident
What activities were you involved with as a student?
- Resident Life
- Resident Student Council
- Nerdfighters
I was the features editor of the campus newspaper The Insider.
Did you have a favorite professor, staff member, coach, or mentor that really impacted your life?
- Lori Jakiela
- Sayre Greenfield, PhD
- Al Thiel
Of all the classes you took, what is the one class that most impacted you or was your favorite? Why?
Jane Austen: Books and Film with Dr. Sayre Greenfield. It gave me an appreciation for Jane Austen as a classic author.
What do you remember most vividly from your time at Pitt-Greensburg?
I remember most vividly helping to establish hall-o-ween, and assisting to create The Insider’s April Fool’s Day edition called “The Outsider.”
What have you been up to since graduation?
I went on to pursue my M.Ed. at Slippery Rock and have been teaching high school English at Westinghouse Arts Academy in Wilmerding. I have also just received my Instructional Level II, teaching certificate. I currently serve as the advisor for the school’s chapter of the national honor society and also serve as an advisor for the prom.
How did your experiences and education at Pitt-Greensburg prepare you for life after college?
Oddly enough, I was an English writing major, and I teach both English and literary arts (writing). I also feel like my minor in psychology helps me to get my students to think critically about the characters we study.
As an alum, how do you support Pitt-Greensburg?
As a teacher who primarily teaches seniors, I do a lot of college prep. Since our school population is small, I often recommend they consider Pitt-Greensburg as their next step.
What advice do you have for your fellow Bobcats?
It’s never too late to get involved on campus, and never skip General Tso’s in the dining hall!
For fun:
What series do you recommend alumni binge watch? White Lotus on HBO! I’m obsessed.
List 3-5 fun facts about yourself that most people probably wouldn’t know.
- I’ve been a certified lifeguard for over 10 years.
- I’ve worked in the summer camp industry for over 10 years.
- I met and went on stage with Julie Andrews at the Mellon Arena as a child.
Alumni Spotlight: Deborah Mucha '04
Deborah Mucha attended Pitt-Greensburg from which she graduated in 2004 with a BS in psychology.
What brought you to Pitt-Greensburg?
I was a non-traditional student so quality education close to my home and job brought me to Pitt-Greensburg.
Were you a commuter or a resident?
Commuter
What activities were you involved with as a student?
I was involved in PSI CHI national honor society and PHI KAPPA PHI national honor society.
Did you have a favorite professor, staff member, coach, or mentor that really impacted your life?
Dr. Randi Koeski
Of all the classes you took, what is the one class that most impacted you or was your favorite? Why?
Introduction to Trauma Psychology. Dr. Koeski taught it. It was an amazing class -- so amazing that I became a trauma therapist and now teach this class at Pitt-Greensburg.
What do you remember most vividly from your time at Pitt-Greensburg?
- The quality of education
- Small classes
- Professor interactions
- Close-knit community
What have you been up to since graduation?
I received my doctorate degree in counseling psychology. I work in private practice and teach at Pitt-Greensburg and West Virginia University. I also work with individuals who have been charged with capital murder.
How did your experiences and education at Pitt-Greensburg prepare you for life after college?
I met great people and teachers who became my mentors, especially Dr. Koeski. Pitt-Greensburg opened my eyes to what I love to do, trauma psychology. All of the great interactions I had at Pitt-Greensburg helped me become more confident in myself.
As an alum, how do you support Pitt-Greensburg?
I work at Pitt-Greensburg, but I also offer internship opportunities through my outpatient and mitigation practice.
What advice do you have for your fellow Bobcats?
Enjoy every second of college, friends, experiences (laughter, tests, and papers included) for one day, too quickly, it is going to be a memory.
For fun:
What series do you recommend alumni binge watch? Dead to Me, Maid, Ted Lasso
List 3-5 fun facts about yourself that most people probably wouldn’t know.
- I am a spin instructor.
- I hang out with best friends on the weekends. We are known as FNDC.
- I make homemade pierogi.
Alumni Spotlight: Chrissy Bortz '03
Chrissy Bortz attended Pitt-Greensburg from which she graduated in 2003 with a BA in English writing.
What brought you to Pitt-Greensburg?
The location. Being near family and friends, having the opportunity to learn my craft as a budding artist, and embracing the education experience without having to travel far were beneficial.
Were you a commuter or a resident?
Commuter
What activities were you involved with as a student?
I was inducted into Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society.
Did you have a favorite professor, staff member, coach, or mentor that really impacted your life?
I didn't have a particular favorite. Every professor and staff member, who I encountered, mentored me in their own way.
Of all the classes you took, what is the one class you would recommend everyone take? Who taught the class? Why would you recommend it?
Freshman Seminar. The class helped me adjust to college life. I don't remember who the professor was, but I felt at ease knowing I had made the right decision about my education.
What do you remember most vividly from your time at Pitt-Greensburg?
The vibrancy and the small town-country feel of the campus. The way the University's beauty naturally radiates is appealing to students who appreciate nature's blessings.
What have you been up to since graduation?
Since graduating in 2003, I have been enjoying the pleasures of being a Pitt-Greensburg alumna and an accomplished artist. I also have become an accomplished poet and photographer. Since 2010, I have been a member of the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. And, I have been employed as a culinary service aide since 2004.
How did your experiences and education at Pitt-Greensburg prepare you for life after college?
It has allowed me to embrace who I am as a person, an artist, and an alumna.
As an alum, how do you support Pitt-Greensburg?
I have taken part in local events sponsored by Pitt-Greensburg to help guide future generations of students, such as the New Pitt Student Send-Off. I also have been giving back to the community by being part of charities such as the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life.
What advice do you have for your fellow Bobcats?
My advice for them would be to take their experience one breath, one moment, and one day at a time -- no matter how stressful and overwhelming it feels. Don't rush it; time will fly by. So, it's important to enjoy the journey.
For fun:
What is your favorite food? Anything authentic. Mexican and Asian cuisine.
List 3-5 fun facts about yourself that most people probably wouldn’t know.
- I am a member of the Mudder Fudders as a part of the Muddy Princess Mud Run since 2021. And, yes, I consider myself a princess . . . that is of the caked-in-mud kind.
- I am a proud aunt of two human nephews, a step-niece, and numerous fur nieces and nephews.
- I have numerous hobbies like fishing, collecting gemstone carvings (skulls, spheres, towers), writing, photography, and camping.
- At last year's Annual Art Show at Pitt-Greensburg, I placed third for Judge's Choice in photography.
- I placed third in Eber & Wein Publishing's 2014 National Amateur Poetry competition for my poem "Luminarie Trail."
Alumni Spotlight: Rick Shrum '75
Rick Shrum attended Pitt-Greensburg for one year before transferring to the Oakland campus from which he graduated in 1975 with a BA in English writing.
What brought you to Pitt-Greensburg?
After one year at CCAC, I decided to attend Pitt because my parents resided in New Stanton, I opted to commute to nearby Pitt-Greensburg before transferring to main campus.
Were you a commuter or a resident?
Commuter
What activities were you involved with as a student?
None. I had a part-time job and a full academic load. Besides, there weren’t many - or any - options beyond basketball. I was a decent player, but not good enough for the varsity team.
Did you have a favorite professor, staff member, coach, or mentor that really impacted your life?
Two English instructors, Dr. Donald Reilly and Larry Whatule. Both inspired me to write well and diligently check facts, which helped put me on a track to be an award-winning newspaper reporter.
Of all the classes you took, what is the one class you would recommend everyone take? Who taught the class? Why would you recommend it?
Mass Media. It may not be part of the curriculum now. Larry Whatule taught the class. He was an excellent instructor. It was a favorite class because I was interested in a career in communications and wanted to know how things transpired.
What do you remember most vividly from your time at Pitt-Greensburg?
The school was fairly new, and we had few classroom buildings. One was on North Main St. in downtown Greensburg. The professors were good, and I forged some longtime friendships.
What have you been up to since graduation?
I have been a journalist for 47 years, and even though I have cut back to being a freelancer, I still have it. I am a Golden Quills finalist. I also am a father of three and grandfather of one.
How did your experiences and education at Pitt-Greensburg prepare you for life after college?
I had great professors, forged great friendships, learned how to interact with professionals in my intended field, and gained a lot of self-confidence.
As an alum, how do you support Pitt-Greensburg?
I have not been supportive in recent years because of family and professional obligations. That will change, especially now that I have more free time. I am a new member of the PGAA Board of Directors.
What advice do you have for your fellow Bobcats?
Work hard, be honest, and always be at your best.
For fun:
What is the last book you read? Amity and Prosperity
List 3-5 fun facts about yourself that most people probably wouldn’t know.
- I used to play for three slo-pitch softball teams at one time;
- I covered Pitt’s national championship football team in 1976;
- I may have attended the same elementary school at the same time as Alice Cooper.
Alumni Spotlight: Charles "Chuck" Goulding, '83
Charles “Chuck” Goulding graduated from Pitt-Greensburg in 1983 with a BA in political science.
What brought you to Pitt-Greensburg?
I wanted to attend a local college, and the University of Pittsburgh was my only choice. The best part was the campus so close -- right in Greensburg.
Were you a commuter or a resident?
Commuter
What activities were you involved with as a student?
There were not many activities that I knew of at the time I attended, and I was a newlywed. Plus, I had to work to pay my way.
Did you have a favorite professor, staff member, coach, or mentor that really impacted your life?
The late Dr. Poke was my advisor at the time, and he was a great influence. The late Mr. Rubinoff also had a great influence on my future decisions. I loved the speech professor and psychology professor too. I was always a history buff, and the history professor was also fantastic. I would say I had many great instructors.
Of all the classes you took, what is the one class you would recommend everyone take? Who taught the class? Why would you recommend it?
I cannot recommend just one class. Many of the professors I had are most likely not there anymore.
What do you remember most vividly from your time at Pitt-Greensburg?
I remember the interest that every instructor showed to their students. It was an excellent place for learning with expert instructors in their fields.
What have you been up to since graduation?
I have worked mostly in government positions since leaving Pitt-Greensburg. When I lived in PA, two jobs I worked were in mental health and PDE. I moved to Florida to be closer to my grandson and have worked at the Monroe County Tax Collector and DMV offices. Currently, I work at The College of the Florida Keys as the Academic Coordinator for Arts, Hospitality, and Business. I am also an adjunct instructor and teach Introduction to Political Science, National Government, and Preparing for Student Success.
How did your experiences and education at Pitt-Greensburg prepare you for life after college?
It provided me with the academic foundation to succeed in my career. It also permitted me to develop the confidence to progress in my career.
As an alum, how do you support Pitt-Greensburg?
Since I graduated, I have mostly lived across PA and in FL, and have not been able to attend many of the activities at Pitt-Greensburg. I have given financially, but raising a family has made that not as frequent as I would have liked. I am also a current member of the PGAA Board of Directors.
What advice do you have for your fellow Bobcats?
I would tell them you have chosen a great place to get an education. Enjoy this beautiful campus and have the time of your life, but also study.
For fun:
What series do you recommend alumni binge watch? Grimm and Man in the High Castle
List 3-5 fun facts about yourself that most people probably wouldn’t know.
I love to garden, ride my bike, and spend all the time I am able to with my grandson (but this last one is probably no secret).