Know Your People
Connect with this campus personality who can offer valuable support and insights tailored to your current semester needs.
Jason Broadwater
Jason Broadwater hails from Mount Pleasant, PA, and holds both a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and a Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communication. Beyond Penn State, his passion lies in horses; he and his family own one and assist in caring for several others. His advice to students is to persevere through tough days, emphasizing that they are capable of overcoming challenges.
“The caring culture and focus on student success at GA is the best I’ve experienced in my career. I love seeing our students use sports as an avenue to succeed in life. Athletics has taught me hard work, dedication, reliability, conflict resolution, and how to be the best version of myself. It’s hard to go through your professional career without working with a team of people. Athletics teaches you how to do that successfully.”
As the Director of Athletics and Head Men’s Soccer Coach, students can find Jason Broadwater at various locations on campus, including Wunderley Gym, the soccer field, or any athletics events. He is available for meetings most days on campus or can be reached via email at [email protected]. To get involved with his work and teachings on campus, students can explore opportunities within the six intercollegiate athletic teams. Jason encourages those interested to connect with him directly, and he'll happily facilitate introductions to the respective coaches.
Kristin Sciulli
A first-generation college student, Kristin Sciulli earned her bachelor’s degree in Quantitative Business Analysis from the Smeal College of Business at The Pennsylvania University. She then completed certification in Secondary Education, specializing in Mathematics from Carlow University. She finished her education with a Master of Education in Mathematics degree from Indiana University. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, she has lived and worked in the community for over 30 years. When she isn’t working, she loves spending time outdoors, listening to music or hanging out with family.
She loves to show her students that “everyone” can be successful in mathematics—it just takes the commitment to practice, practice, practice! The best part of her day is when she sees her students master the material and realize they CAN do it! Her advice to students would be to not let anyone stop you from your goals or tell you that you can’t do it. Follow your heart, put in the work and you will get there.
“I never thought I would become a mathematics instructor, but looking back, I was always helping others understand mathematics—assisting my peers or working as a tutor. But at a turning point in my life, I ran into my high school Calculus teacher who encouraged me to pursue this career. It turned out to be the best decision. Interacting with my students, whether it is in the classroom, during an advising session, or just having a casual conversation, is the best part of my day. Knowing I can make even a small impact on a student trying to reach a goal is the reason I am dedicated in my roles at the University.”
She is the Assistant Director of Academic Affairs, an Associate Teaching Professor of Mathematics and an academic adviser at Penn State Greater Allegheny. She has advised in many areas over the years and specializes in advising transfer students and evaluating transfer credits. She can assist students with many academic procedures, answer questions regarding academic programs, and help navigate the Penn State systems. Also, as part of her administrative duties, she is responsible for supervising the part-time faculty.
She teaches a variety of courses throughout the academic year—Pre-Algebra, Algebra I and II, Trigonometry, and Cmpsc 203 (Excel). Since all majors require quantification credits, many students will be a member in one of her classes. She is always willing to work with students to help build the mathematics foundation needed to complete their degree requirements.
Her office is located in Frable Building 104. Stop in any time or send an email to set up a time to meet!
Penn State Greater Allegheny's Admissions and Student Aid Team
The Penn State Greater Allegheny Admissions and Student Aid team is a dedicated group of staff members committed to supporting students through the admissions process and beyond, ensuring their success at Penn State Greater Allegheny. The Admissions office assists students in navigating the admissions process and obtaining and maintaining financial aid. Anyone in need of assistance can check in with Ms. Amy Zakrzwski at the front desk of Frable Building 123, who will ensure that someone assists them. The office is typically open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
You can get involved by contacting them to become a Lion Ambassador. Estelle Belko and Dave Davis provide support to our Veterans and Adult Learners, who are special populations.
“Penn State Greater Allegheny's Admissions and Student Aid Team is dedicated to supporting and collaborating with our colleagues who help students through the college admissions process. We provide prospective students, current students, and their support system with accurate information to assist them in obtaining the most available financial aid, and offer several different Admissions events and programs for prospective students throughout the year"
The team comprises various professionals with diverse educational backgrounds:
- Dan Pinchot, Senior Regional Director of Enrollment Management, is a graduate of both undergraduate and graduate school at Pennsylvania State University.
- Lindale Smith, Associate Director of Enrollment Management, attended Clarion University.
- David Davis, Transfer Admissions Counselor, is a graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
- Anthony Sharro, Dual Campus Counselor, graduated from Edinboro University.
- Danielle Kochka, Athletic and Campaign Admissions Counselor, is a graduate of Washington and Jefferson College.
- Estelle Belko, Financial Aid Counselor, attended LaRoche College.
- Amy Zakrzwski, Administrative Support Assistant, graduated from the State University of New York at Oswego.
Know Your Dates
Use these timely reminders to stay on track with dates, activities, and other valuable academic information around Penn State Greater Allegheny.
Thinking about taking summer classes?
Contact Estelle Belko ([email protected]) for assistance!
If you are planning to enroll in courses for the summer semester, consult with Estelle Belko, student aid coordinator, in Frable Building 123 to discuss if financial aid is available to assist you with your summer tuition! Visit LionPATH (lionpath.psu.edu) to view what courses are available this summer!
FAFSA Reminder
Contact Estelle Belko ([email protected]) for questions!
As a reminder, all students who will be enrolled for the Fall Semester 2024 must complete the 2024-2025 FAFSA to be considered for grants, student loans, and scholarships. For maximum aid consideration, Penn State’s recommended filing deadline for returning students is April 15, 2024. The application must be completed online by visiting: studentaid.gov.
Scholarship Opportunities
Contact Estelle Belko ([email protected]) for questions!
Many scholarship opportunities have early deadlines. Now is the time to begin your scholarship search for Fall Semester 2024!
- Penn State Educational Equity Office Scholarships: equity.psu.edu/scholarships
- Penn State Office of Student Aid Scholarships: studentaid.psu.edu/types-of-aid/scholarships/applications
- Penn State Greater Allegheny Scholarship Page: ga.psu.edu/scholarships
Final Exam Preparations
Students can view their individual final exam schedule in LionPATH (lionpath.psu.edu). Students who have 3 or more finals on the same day are considered to have an overload conflict. If so, discuss with your instructors as soon as possible to determine which exam you can take at an alternate time. Final exams for the Spring Semester 2024 begin April 29, 2024.
Attend the Undergraduate Student Research and Creativity Conference
Save the Date! Join us for our Undergraduate Student Research and Creativity Conference on April 18, 2024, at 12:15 p.m. in the Student Community Center! Explore the many research projects on display from our talented students and engage in the excitement by voting for your favorite projects! Don't miss out on this inspiring showcase of innovation and academic excellence!
New Student Orientation and Welcome Weekend Leaders Wanted!
Academic Affairs is seeking a diverse team of inspiring undergraduate student leaders to serves as New Student Orientation (NSO) and Welcome Conference Leaders for Summer 2024! This role is a paid part-time position and is best suited for any student who has regional housing options during the summer. Join us for an open hiring event on Thursday, April 25, 2024 from 11:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. in the lower level of the Student Community Center.
Graduates! Attend a Photoshoot!
Contact Nick Trunzo (nzt186@psu.edu) for questions!
You’ve done it! You are about to graduate from Penn State! Join us for a Graduation Photoshoot on April 18 and 19, 2024 from 1:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Remember to bring your cap and gown! Photos will be taken at the Lion Shrine outside of the Student Community Center. Graduates who participate will receive a few posed photos in your cap and gown, a headshot, a LinkedIn headshot, and be featured on Penn State Greater Allegheny’s social media leading up to the Commencement Ceremony on May 4!
Register by visiting: ga.psu.edu/graduation-photoshoot.
100 Days until Graduation
As we approach the last 100 days to graduation, we've been thinking about the many unique experiences that Penn State and the surrounding Pittsburgh area has to offer, some small and some life-changing. We’ve started a Graduation Bucket List of the top 100 things that you should do before graduation this spring. Each issue of our FYI Newsletter, we will add items to the list.
View the Graduation Bucket List
May 4 Commencement Activities
This week you received your invitation to attend The 2024 Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 4th. Please be sure to RSVP for Graduation and reach out to the bookstore to order your cap and gown!
Learn more by visiting: ga.psu.edu/commencement
Know Your Courses
Explore the diverse range of courses available at Penn State Greater Allegheny, each offering valuable insights to enhance your academic experience. Curious about Fall Semester offerings? Hear directly from some of our faculty about the courses they're eager to teach in the upcoming semester!
Submitted by: Dr. Katherine McLean, Associate Professor of Administration of Justice
BBH 143: Drugs, Behavior and Health
When asked if she could give this course her own title, Dr. McLean said she'd call it "A User's Guide to Drugs (Inside-Out Edition)".
This class considers how recreational drugs effect the brain, body, and behavior, with a overall focus on reducing harmful patterns of use. In Fall 2024, it will be taught as an "Inside-Out" course with individuals currently incarcerated at the Allegheny County Jail.
Requirements fulfilled by this course:
General Education
Certificate
Major (Greater Allegheny Degree Program)
Minor
Submitted by: Dr. Andrea Stevens, Assistant Teaching Professor of Biology
BBH 471: Clinical Research Practice
When asked if she could give this course her own title, Dr. Stevens chose to keep the courses name as listed.
This is the capstone course for the Undergraduate Clinical Research Training (UCRT) Program. The UCRT program provides a career pathway into the clinical research enterprise.
Requirements fulfilled by this course:
Major (Greater Allegheny Degree Program)
Submitted by: Dr. Eric Lipsky, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering
SUST 150N: The Science of Sustainable Development
When asked if he could give this course his own title, Dr. Lipsky said he'd call it "Living Sustainably in a Modern World".
In this course we will connect energy and climate challenges with the United Nations Sustainability Goals. Our discussions will compare issues we experience in the United States to other parts of the world specifically focusing on Latin America as we will travel to Oaxaca Mexico during Thanksgiving Break. (additional course fees required)
Requirements fulfilled by this course:
General Education
Submitted by: Christopher Robinson, Associate Professor and Program Director of Social Work
SOCW 205: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice
When asked if he could give this course his own title, Dr. Robinson said he'd call it "Embracing Differences, Building Bridges: Diversity in Social Work Practice".
Elevate your impact and unlock your potential by learning more about anti-racism, diversity, equity, and inclusion in social work.
Requirements fulfilled by this course:
General Education
Major (Greater Allegheny Degree Program)
Submitted by: Dr. Elizabeth Mazur, Professor and Program Coordinator of Psychology
PSYCH 370: Psychology of the Differently-Abled
When asked if she could give this course her own title, Dr. Mazur said she'd call it "The Psychology of Disability".
Disability is diversity! In this course, we will try to understand the true nature of the disability experience, both psychological and physical. Through course activities and assignment, we will become more aware of the daily lives and successful coping of people with disabilities, as well as the barriers, hidden costs, and discrimination they often face. My hope is that our work together will be engaging and enlightening!
Requirements fulfilled by this course:
General Education
Major (Greater Allegheny Degree Program)
Minor (2+2)
PSYCH 479: The Psychology of Gender - 3 credits
When asked if she could give this course her own title, Dr. Mazur said she'd call it "Why Real Men don't say 'cute.'".
During the past 50 years, psychologists have developed new ways of thinking about gender in virtually every area of psychology. In PSYCH4 79 we will examine and discuss the psychological theories and research that focus on how we become, are, and behave as people of various genders. This focus will cut across many of the specialty areas of psychology and will also allow you to learn more about yourself.
Requirements fulfilled by this course:
General Education
Major (Greater Allegheny Degree Program)
Minor
Submitted by: Professor Rosemary Martinelli, Lecturer in Business and Communications
COMM 230W: Writing for Media - 3 credits
Did you ever read a newspaper story, watch a TV journalist deliver a report from the scene of breaking news or hear a press conference with a city official and say to yourself, "I wonder how they do that?"
Well, now you can learn how with a new course offered for the first time this fall at Penn State Greater Allegheny: COMM 230W: Writing for Media. In this three-credit course, students in any major can learn what it takes to become a reporter, a public relations communicator and/or a source for a news story, skills that can help any student become career ready in our fast-paced technologically-changing world.
Don't wait to register, as the seating for the course is limited.
Requirements fulfilled by this course:
Writing Across the Curriculum