ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ

MUAA Awards

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 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient - T. Greg Hall, '71

Thomas Gregory Hall, known as Greg, is a proud member of ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ’s Class of 1971. Majoring in secondary education for Biology, Greg earned his Bachelor of Science in Education while excelling as a four-year football player and an active member of Mu Alpha Kappa Fraternity. His journey from ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ has been one of unwavering service, dedication, and distinction.

Greg began his career as a science teacher and coach at Lampeter-Strasburg School District, inspiring students in and out of the classroom. In 1975, he joined the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP), embarking on a 28-year career marked by leadership, bravery, and excellence. Rising through the ranks, Greg served as a Trooper, Criminal Investigator, and Tactical Supervisor for the elite Special Emergency Response Team (SERT), leading over 500 high-risk operations, including hostage rescues and active shooter incidents. His expertise extended beyond Pennsylvania, where he trained law enforcement nationwide through the National Tactical Officers Association and the Department of Homeland Security.

A decorated law enforcement officer, Greg received the Pennsylvania State Police Medal of Honor for his extraordinary valor, among numerous other accolades. Beyond his professional achievements, he is a dedicated husband to Shirley Thompson Hall (MU Class of ’71) and proud father to two accomplished children, Amy and Gregory. Greg credits ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ with teaching him perseverance and leadership, values that have guided his distinguished career.

Today, Greg enjoys training versatile hunting dogs, finding joy in this rewarding endeavor. As a Distinguished Alumni Award recipient, Greg exemplifies ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ’s commitment to service, leadership, and lifelong learning. His legacy is a testament to the transformative power of education and the enduring impact of the ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ community.

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2024 Honorary Alumnus Award Recipient - Dr. Beth Powers

Dr. Beth Powers, a dedicated faculty member in Early Childhood Education at ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ, has made significant contributions to the university and its mission. With a doctorate from UNC Chapel Hill and a bachelor's degree from Bloomsburg University, Beth exemplifies academic excellence and a commitment to lifelong learning.

Beth's leadership in securing over a million dollars in funding has greatly enhanced the Early Childhood Education program at ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ, improving resources and opportunities for students. Her ability to build meaningful partnerships with stakeholders has elevated the program’s reputation and impact.

Known for her passion for education and student success, Beth fosters a supportive and inclusive learning environment. Her unwavering dedication to ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ, its students, and her colleagues embodies the spirit of the university, making her a deserving recipient of the Honorary Alumni Award.

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2024 OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENT - Cheryl Youtz '69, '72M

Cheryl Youtz, a proud alumna of ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ, graduated with a B.S.Ed in Elementary Education and a Spanish concentration in 1969, later earning an M.Ed. in 1972. A retired foreign language teacher from Penn Manor School District, Cheryl has dedicated decades of her life to ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ through volunteerism, mentorship, and advocacy.

As a member of the MU Alumni Association Board, Cheryl has served as Secretary, President, and Engagement Committee member. She has been an advisor to the MU Student Alumni Association since its inception in 1986 and has enthusiastically supported campus events such as Homecoming, Get Acquainted Days, and Move-in Days. Cheryl's consistent generosity includes contributions to the Annual Fund and active participation in the One Day Give and the Black & Gold Club.

Her impact extends beyond ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ, where she has volunteered as a swimming official, Girl Scout leader, and fundraiser for local schools. Cheryl’s passion for fostering community and student engagement exemplifies the values of ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ, making her a deserving recipient of the Outstanding Volunteer Service Award.

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2024 YOUNG ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENT - Dana Wile '11, '15M

Dana Wile, a double graduate of ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ, earned her B.S. in Communication Studies in 2011 and an M.Ed. in School Counseling in 2015. Before attending ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ, Dana served in AmeriCorps with City Year, exemplifying her early dedication to service and education.

As a school counselor at Penn Manor High School, Dana is deeply committed to guiding students toward achieving their full potential. She is a passionate advocate for social justice and educational equity, presenting on topics such as career advising in technology and bridging the digital divide. Dana’s work has extended into statewide initiatives, where she advocates for school counselors' roles in Pennsylvania's CS4ALL initiatives, serving on the ECEP Alliance advisory board.

Dana co-founded the Leadership Summit (2015–2018), equipping students to address cycles of societal oppression, and helped establish the local affiliate of NCWIT’s Aspirations in Computing Award at ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ, inspiring young women and gender-queer students to pursue technology careers. A co-author of a $400,000 PASmart Grant, Dana has expanded opportunities for counselors to engage with the CS4ALL movement.

Through her advocacy and volunteerism, Dana continues to inspire and support the next generation, ensuring they have the tools to succeed and create meaningful change.

2024 YOUNG ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENT - Jessica Smeltz '04, PhD

Dr. Jessica Smeltz, a first-generation college student, began her academic journey at ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ in 2004 as a Secondary Education major with a focus on Chemistry. Under the mentorship of Dr. Rajaseelan, she discovered her passion for research, participating in a prestigious Research Experience for Undergraduates program at the University of Arizona. This transformative experience led her to pursue a PhD in Chemistry, which she earned in 2013 from North Carolina State University, specializing in organometallic chemistry and catalysis.

Following a postdoctoral fellowship, Dr. Smeltz returned to ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ as a visiting Assistant Professor in 2013, gaining valuable teaching and research experience. She later joined the Florida Institute of Technology in 2014, where her dedication to improving student success and retention earned her rapid promotions, including becoming the Chemistry Program Chair in 2020. In 2023, she was appointed Department Head of the newly formed Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, overseeing over 20 faculty members and more than 200 students.

Dr. Smeltz’s leadership, innovative teaching, and commitment to mentoring students reflect her deep gratitude for the guidance she received as a student. Her journey from ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ to becoming a prominent leader in higher education serves as an inspiration to first-generation college students and aspiring scientists alike.

2024 YOUNG ALUMNI ACHIEVEMENT AWARD RECIPIENT - Christine Persun '17, '22M

Christine Persun, a dedicated mathematics teacher at Mechanicsburg Middle School in Mechanicsburg, PA, graduated from ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ in 2017 with a BSE in Middle Level Education. A member of the University Honors College, Christine was recognized early in her journey as Freshman Leader of the Year (2013) and Student Leader of the Year (2014). She returned to ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ to earn her M.Ed. in Curriculum, Assessment, and Instruction with a concentration in Integrative STEM in 2022 and later completed a graduate certificate in Instructional Coaching from Immaculata University in 2023.

Christine has actively contributed to her educational community by presenting at district and state-level conferences on best teaching practices. She has spearheaded initiatives like the STEM Girls program, encouraging middle school girls to explore STEM careers, and an after-school English Language Learner mathematics prep program. Her achievements include publishing a lesson plan on Sustainable Development Goal 14 through the United Nations and earning a grant from the University of Pennsylvania to participate in a teacher education program in India and Nepal.

Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Policy and Social Change at the University of Pittsburgh, Christine expects to graduate in Spring 2027. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband Will, whom she met in middle school, and their chocolate Labrador retriever, Murray. Christine’s unwavering passion for education and dedication to empowering students and educators exemplify the values of ÎÞÓǶÌÊÓƵ.