Legends From The Hill

Tim Delaney completed his degrees in History and Theology in 1999.  After testing the waters outside of Steubenville, Tim came back home to Franciscan and has now been on the staff for 20 years, initially with Financial Aid and Admissions, and now in the Alumni office.  Tune in for a preview of the University's upcoming Strategic Plan, plus Tim has "20 Insights from 20 Years".  Don't miss this very special episode marking the beginning of our 4th series of Legends from the Hill!

Brendan Gotta graduated in 2015 with a degree in Communication Arts.  Alongside his career spanning ministry and fundraising he started his own podcast called Gotta Be Saints.  Join us to hear Brendan share how he balances career, family, and passion projects.

Shannon studied English and Theology at Franciscan, and even came back for a Masters in Catechetics, but it was her extracurricular activities as a student that shaped her career thus far.  After volunteering with Vagabond Missions while at Franciscan, Shannon moved into a full-time role with the organization and has been there ever since.  Her passion is advocating for the youth of our inner-city neighborhoods - and finding creative ways to serve their deepest needs.

Anthony Pienta graduated in 2004, having majored in Philosophy, Theology, and Business.  Now the Executive Director at The Altum Fund, Anthony has used all three of those degrees to make his way through careers in education and fundraising.

Christen (Pine) Routh '07 graduated with a double major in French and Business (Finance) and has enjoyed a successful career with "Big 4" accounting firm Earnst & Young -while being a working mom.  She shares her path and story of how she and her husband, Jimmy Routh MA '04 have been both foster and adoptive parents.

Mary (Jaminet) McCluskey graduated from Franciscan University in 1998 with a communications degree.   A life-long worker in the vineyard of the Pro-Life Movement, Mary now leads training and resource creation for the Project Rachel Ministry at the USCCB.  In this role she supports the Church's post-abortion healing ministry at the national level while developing best practices for diocesan programming and services.

After a student experience marked by pro-life advocacy work, Jason Negri completed a degree in History and pursued a career in law.  To this day, he continues to advocate for injustices happening in the world around him.

Erin (Wilson) Shircliff graduated with a Theology degree in 2011 and began a career in Pro-Life advocacy.  Working at Mary's Shelter in northern Virginia, Erin supports mothers during and - just as importantly - after their pregnancies.  Take a listen to learn more about this beautiful ministry.

Ken graduated in 2005 with a degree in Communication Arts.  After working for Franciscan University in both admissions and advancement he is now the Executive Director of the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology with Dr. Scott Hahn.  Ken and his wife are faithful advocates for Franciscan University and he shares the impact it has made on his life.

Frank Monaco completed an English degree at The College of Steubenville in 1972 before going on to a successful career as a police officer - and police chief - in Pennsylvania.  Frank and his team were the first responders on the scene in recovery of Flight 93 in Somerset, PA on 9/11.  From Steubenville in the late 1960s, to the Pennsylvania State Troopers, Frank has a broad range of experiences and stories to share.

Bob Hogan studied Philosophy and Business at Franciscan, graduating in 2010.  After law school and a brief but successful stint at a law firm, Bob is launching a pro-life insurance company.  Tune it to find out what a pro-life insurance company offers and how Bob's business model is informed by his faithful Catholic education.

Liz Miller, class of 2010, practices international law and defends human rights.  She recently founded her own non-profit organization that works to prevent human trafficking domestically.  Liz credits her studies in Theology and Philosophy at Franciscan as the foundation of her formation and the springboard of her career.

Where's the cross-over from country music to Catechetics?  John Paul Von Arx '17 shares his story, including how his God-given talents took him away from Franciscan... and then right back.  Don't miss the new music video for "He's Different", the song John Paul wrote about having - and learning from - a brother with Down's Syndrome.  Visit JohnPaulVonArx.com to discover his music or to book John Paul for your next event!

Michelle (Weber) Hillaert '99 comes from a long line of sisters to attend Franciscan, where she studied Communication Arts and played soccer.  She is currently the executive director of the Given Institute, which helps form young women into leaders.  Learn more at https://giveninstitute.com/

Mark Kalpakgian completed his studies in History and French in 2002, and after a brief stint in the business world he became the Director of Student Life for our Gaming, Austria campus from 2006-2012.  For the last 10 years he has been putting his business and education experience to good use at The Classical Academies, where he is now serving as the COO.  Additionally, in 2015, Mark and his wife Nichole were honored with the Rose M. DeFede Faithful Franciscan Award, for their volunteer contributions to their alma mater by establishing an outstanding Alumni Chapter in Southern California.

Michelle (McKnight) Barto '03 studied computer information science and business marketing at Franciscan.  She has led a successful career in a fortune 500 company and created 2 of her own small businesses.  Michelle is passionately involved in her local community and serves on the Board of the Newport-Mesa Unified School District in her home of Costa Mesa, California.

The common thread running through the life of Rhett Young '94 is trust in God's providence and plan.  Hailing from California, Rhett arrived in Ohio to pursue degrees in Theology and Philosophy, and -as it turned out- his wife!  After some time back out west in Denver and the Los Angeles area working in education and diocesan family ministry, Rhett's journey brought him back to Steubenville where he has spent the last 11 years as the Director of Missionary Outreach.  Hear how Rhett's personal story of walking with the Lord has helped him form our students and how he teaches them to put their faith into action.

When people ask you "How are you doing?", do you answer, "Busy!"?  Holly Joy (Penzenstadler) McIlwain graduated with an education degree in 2003 and has put her talents to good use - instructing and presenting to countless individuals, helping them find fullness and balance in their life.  An accomplished author, speaker, and HR professional, Holly Joy is here for you. Contact Holly or find her books at HollyJoy.info

Have you ever had déjà vu?  Iliana (Gonzales) Spoelman graduated from Franciscan University in 2016 with her degree in Communication Arts, having also been a student athlete and a Resident Assistant in her dorm.  Iliana later returned to Franciscan as a Residence Director, took a position as a basketball coach, and now serves as our Assistant Director of Alumni & Constituent Relations, a communications-heavy role.  We can't make this stuff up.

Mark's journey with Franciscan University began by hearing Fr. Michael Scanlan, TOR, speak at a conference.  Since Mark is now the Director of Career Services, we'll talk today about how the Office of Personal Vocation utilizes new platforms and technology to help current students prepare for their future and keep our alumni connected.

From courtside to couchside, Suzy (Heusel) Delaney uses her undergrad degrees in Biology and Theology, and her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, to coach your body, mind, and soul.  Suzy spent her first stint with FUS coaching our women's basketball team, including as head coach from 2012 to 2019.  Her work with students continues in the form of a counseling role in the Baron Counseling Center.  Tune in to find out what you need to do in order to get out of Dr. Martin's final exam!

After serving as the Director of Student Life on our Gaming campus for 7 years, Brian has returned to Steubenville to work with his good friend Fr. Dave as Director of Presidential Relations.  Does a Marketing degree prepare you for Youth Ministry?  Why is Austria like a microwave?  Is Mel Gibson's daughter really visiting campus?  We have questions, and Brian Kissinger has the answers on this episode of Legends From the Hill.

Catherine (Recznik) Sullivan graduated with her BSN in 2010 and MSN in 2012.  She has gone on to receive many nursing certificates and is now playing a critical role in the ongoing development of our Nursing program as the Department's Chair.  Hear about how she lives out her lifelong passion for healthcare and education - both on campus and in the annual medical mission trip to Ecuador!

Mark Hanrahan graduated in 2004 with his degree in Business Management - and a minor in Theology.  Find out what made him walk away from a football scholarship to attend Franciscan University and the impact that had on his life.  Mark currently serves as our Dean of Admissions, recruiting and admitting the next generation of Legends from this hill!

Sarah (Hull) Hough graduated in 2017 with a degree in Political Science.  After a brief stint with Admissions, she accepted the role of Director of Student Success.  Sarah's responsibilities include working with students from every department and background, walking with them through the transition to college life and beyond.

Sarah (Schriner) Salamida '18 joins us to share about her student athlete experience and how NCAA athletics benefit individual students and the campus at large.  Sarah just completed her 3rd year as Franciscan's Women's Soccer Coach by taking the team to the Conference Finals and being awarded PAC Coach of the Year.

Welcome to Season 2 of Legends From the Hill!  In this season, we will hear from alumni who have come back to campus to work as faculty or staff; they will share about their specific departments and what is happening on campus now.   Annie Booth graduated from Franciscan University in 2014 with a degree in History and a minor in Legal Studies.  She went on to a master's degree in Criminology from Texas A&M University Kingsville and her Juris Doctor from The Thomas R. Kline School of Law at Duquesne University.  In 2019 Annie returned to her roots and joined the University's Title IX Office.  Today she shares about her student experience and her important work on campus with students and staff.    Tune in to hear from Annie - and a surprise special guest host!   For more information on the Title IX office visit: https://safety.franciscan.edu/title-ix/   For a historical review of campus security and updates over the years visit: https://en.calameo.com/read/000056854432da6943f72?page=1

Jackie Schabold completed a Theology degree with a minor in Chemistry in 2011.  Not only does this hospital pharmacist work 70-hour weeks (!), her community service earned her the Outstanding Young Alumni Award in 2019.  How does she do it?

After completing her degrees in Business Management and Spanish, Mary Krolicki '18 is now the RD for the Karthause at our Austrian campus.  How does a Spanish major move to a German-speaking country?  Find out on this episode of Legends from the Hill.

Hope (Batchelder) and Justin Schneir '99 have many gifts and talents that they are sharing with the world.  Hear about their music, their business ventures, and a unique scholarship they have created for students.  Would you go without your phone for tuition money?

Anna Carter graduated in 2009 with a degree in Theology and Catechetics.  She shares about her rich student experience at Franciscan and about her ministry, Eden Invitation, a movement providing support and resources for young adult Catholics experiencing same-sex desires or gender discordance.  edeninvitation.com

Major Andrew Matwijec began his Army career in the ROTC program on campus.  His study of theology and philosophy laid the foundation for his service and leadership.  Taking advantage of the travel opportunities provided by his career, Major Matwijec has become an award-winning travel and landscape photographer.  See his work here at his official photo site.

Regina Doman '92, author and editor, shares how a degree in Communication Arts helped her make the connections she needed to get published.  Listen in behind the scenes of a writer's career, and enjoy this trip down memory lane!

Sr. Joan Paule, TOR graduated from Franciscan University in 1990 with a degree in education.  Hear how her career path led her to discern her vocation -and specifically- a calling to the TOR sisters.  Everyone can benefit from the wisdom shared in this conversation!

Ryan Stout '06 followed his dreams (literally!) to arrive at Franciscan University where he studied Theology and Computer Science.  His talents and curiosity have led him through a variety of computer science fields and business ventures.  Most recently, Ryan developed and launched Arsenal, an accessory for DSLR and mirrorless cameras that uses AI and machine learning to automate many common photo-editing tasks in real time.  Be inspired and find out more at witharsenal.com.

Ian Gill '16, joins us to share about the formation of FATAL, the Franciscan University Ultimate Frisbee team which won the National Championship in 2015.  After completing his degree, Ian stayed on campus to be an RD and thus has many years of experiences at Franciscan to share!  Can you top his Austrian engagement story?   We dedicate this episode in memory of Neal Albert "Fat Al" Rylatt.

Dr. John Irvin '58, a veteran of the United States Army and a Board of Trustee Emeritus, has a unique experience of having had a personal relationship with every president of the University since its founding. He shares memories of the earliest days of student life and describes the remarkable growth he has seen - and continues to witness today.  Alumni of every generation will learn something new from this conversation that spans most of our history!

Mike Kehoe, a 1968 grad, paints a picture of what campus was like in the 60's with his involvement in Greek life and intramural sports.  He shares about his service in Vietnam and how he went on to have a successful career with Bell Telephone Company (later AT&T).  Mike's ongoing contributions to the University community include advice to current students and his involvement with the establishment of our Veterans' Memorial on campus in 2016.

Our 2 co-hosts, Christie Fleming' 10 and Meghan (Bartnick) Coen '10 share their stories of coming to the university, their experiences on campus, and how the University continues to impact their lives and families.  Get to know your Legends From the Hill co-hosts!

David DeWolf describes his journey of leadership, from his active involvement in student activities on campus up to now as the Vice Chair of our Board of Trustees.  Hear how he discovered his unique calling and how he continues to mentor and lead students, alumni, and his company. Finally, David has a big announcement to make about the capital campaign and new developments for the future of Franciscan University!

Colleen is a 2018 graduate with a BS in Economics and a minor in Marketing. Currently she is an IT Specialist at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and in this episode she shares insights into keeping yourself safe from cyber-attacks.  She also shares how the young alumni of the business department are supporting current students through mentorships and networking opportunities.

James and Carol Snyder, Class of 1971, attended the struggling College of Steubenville and learned that when times are tough, relationships can not only survive but thrive.  Their focus on relationships throughout their life has led them not only into professional success, but full circle back to Steubenville where they helped coordinate the first multi-year alumni reunions, a tradition we carry on to this day.

Mike Bianco '11 shares how paying his way through college led him to start his own company.  Now with Stripe, hear what this software and web developer has to say about what sets Franciscan students apart in the marketplace.

Chad Wilson graduated in 2000 with a business marketing degree and an interest in government.  Now with Nationwide Insurance, Chad shares about his and his wife's experience with the adoption process.  Their journey -and Chad's expertise- led them to propose and help pass legislation in the state of Ohio providing low interest loans for families to help reduce the impact of adoption expenses.  Learn more about the Family Forward Program!

Blair (Gordy) Piras '15 studied Humanities and Catholic Culture at Franciscan before attending art school in Florence, Italy.  Returning to Franciscan as the University's first Artist in Residence, Blair shares how she helps students encounter and create art. Her recent works include the Our Lady of the Angels image on the JC Williams Center, and a commission to make a piece for Bishop Barron's Word on Fire ministry.   Links to Blair's art: St. Therese of the Holy Face.  Our Lady of the Angels.  If you look closely, you can even see the Our Lady of the Angels on the JC Williams Center in the thumbnail icon for this podcast!

Eddie, a 2017 Business Management alum, is the President & Co-founder at Bugumiro Foundation in Uganda.  Hear him share the story of his childhood in Uganda, how he was able to attend Franciscan, and what his foundation does to serve the community in Bugumiro.  Learn how you can help at bugumirouganda.org.

Theresa (Fischer) Danaher received her degree in Education as part of the class of 1980, and came back to complete her Masters in 2007.  Join us to hear how the current principal of Steubenville's Bishop John King Mussio Elementary School was involved in the very beginning of the Household system on campus!  Theresa tells us what has changed, what has stayed the same, and how the University continues to contribute to the local community.

Kate Bryan is a 2007 Theology Alumna and producer of an Emmy-Nominated Short Film. She founded 1 Girl Revolution, a multimedia platform and podcast that highlights the stories of everyday women who are changing the world through their lives.  Today she shares how Franciscan University helped to shape her into the woman she is today!  For the 1 Girl Revolution Podcast and the short film "The Girl Inside", visit  https://1girlrevolution.com/

Fr. Gregory Pine, OP, class of 2010, joins us from the University's Gaming campus to share about studying Math and Humanities and reveal how his experiences as a student inspired his interest in St. Thomas Aquinas. He shares about his favorite part of being a Dominican and answers "Hot Takes from the Hill".  You can find Fr. Gregory on the Pints with Aquinas Podcast and the Godsplaining Podcast.

Elizabeth Kauffeld '99 was an RA and met her husband on campus.  Hear about her journey from her degree in Humanities and Catholic Culture to her career in nursing, and how she sees her son going through similar life experiences as he currently attends Franciscan University.

A member of the Class of 1970 and now a Professor in the English Department, Dr. Sunyoger has stories and experiences to share over the course of 50+ years and why she loves Franciscan University of Steubenville.